{CAUTION:
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/ lter off
can cause you or others to be burned. The air
cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop
ames if the engine back res. If it is not there and
the engine back res, you could be burned. Do not
drive with it off, and be careful working on the
engine with the air cleaner/ lter off.
Notice:If the air cleaner/ lter is off, a back re can
cause a damaging engine re. And, dirt can easily get
into the engine, which will damage it. Always have
the air cleaner/ lter in place when you are driving.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
When to Check and Change Automatic
Transmission Fluid
It is usually not necessary to check the transmission uid
level. The only reason for uid loss is a transmission leak
or overheating the transmission. If you suspect a small
leak, then use the following checking procedures to check
the uid level. However, if there is a large leak, then it
may be necessary to have the vehicle towed to a dealer/
retailer service department and have it repaired before
driving the vehicle further.
Notice:Use of the incorrect automatic transmission
uid may damage the vehicle, and the damages may
not be covered by the vehicle’s warranty. Always
use the automatic transmission uid listed in
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
Change the uid and lter at the intervals listed in the
Maintenance Schedule. SeeScheduled Maintenance on
page 6-4. Be sure to use the transmission uid listed
inRecommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
5-23
(i)Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service can
be complex; you should have your dealer/retailer perform
this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-31 for what to
use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure
cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling system and
pressure cap.
(j)A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and
the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.
(k)Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or
obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
(l)Severe Service: Change transfer case fluid if the
vehicle is mainly used for trailer towing or driven in city
traffic, wet environment, or high ambient temperatures.
Owner Checks and Services
These owner checks and services should be performed
at the intervals speci ed to help ensure vehicle safety,
dependability, and emission control performance. Your
dealer/retailer can assist with these checks and services.
Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Whenever any uids or lubricants are added to the
vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown
inRecommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood checks at
each fuel fill.
Engine Oil Level Check
Notice:It is important to check the engine oil
regularly and keep it at the proper level. Failure to
keep the engine oil at the proper level can cause
damage to the engine not covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if
necessary. SeeEngine Oil on page 5-15.
Engine Coolant Level Check
Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL®
coolant mixture if necessary. SeeEngine Coolant
on page 5-31.
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
Check the windshield washer uid level in the windshield
washer uid reservoir and add the proper uid if
necessary.
6-9
