GENERAL MAINTENANCEMA-5
< PERIODIC MAINTENANCE >
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UNDER THE HOOD AND VEHICLE
The maintenance items listed here should
be checked periodically (e.g. each time you check the engine oil or refuel).
Seats Check seat position controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. to
make sure they operate smoothly and that all latches lock securely in every po-
sition. Check that the head restrains move up and down smoothly and that the
locks (if equipped) hold securely in all latched positions. Check that the latches
lock securely for folding-down rear seatbacks. —
Seat belts Check that all parts of the seat belt system (e.g. buckles, anchors, adjusters
and retractors) operate properly and smoothly, and are installed securely.
Check the belt webbing for cuts, fraying, wear or damage. MA-34
Accelerator pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure the pedal does not catch
or require uneven effort. Keep the floor mats away from the pedal. —
Brakes Check that the brake does not pull the vehicle to one side when applied. —
Brake pedal and
booster Check the pedal for smooth operation and make sure it has the proper distance
under it when depressed fully. Check the brake booster function. Be sure to
keep the floor mats away from the pedal. BR-7
BR-15
Parking brake
Check that the lever or pedal has the proper travel and make sure that the ve-
hicle is held securely on a fairly steep hill when only the parking brake is ap-
plied. PB-3
Automatic transmis-
sion “Park” mecha-
nismCheck that the lock release button on the selector lever operates properly and
smoothly. On a fairly steep hill check that the vehicle is held securely with the
selector lever in the P (Park) position without applying any brakes.
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Item
Reference page
Item Reference page
Windshield washer
fluid Check that there is adequate fluid in the tank. —
Engine coolant level Check the coolant level when the engine is cold. MA-12
Radiator and hosesCheck the front of the radiator and clean off any dirt, insects, leaves, etc., that
may have accumulated. Make sure the hoses have no cracks, deformation, de-
terioration or loose connections. MA-16
Brake fluid levels
Make sure that the brake fluid level is between the “MAX” and “MIN” lines on the
reservoir(s). MA-28
Battery
Check the fluid level in each cell. It should be between the “MAX” and “MIN”
lines. Vehicles operated in high temperatures or under severe conditions re-
quire frequent checks of the battery fluid level. PG-159
Engine drive belts
Make sure that no belt is frayed, worn, cracked or oily. MA-12
Engine oil levelCheck the level on the oil level gauge after parking the vehicle on a level spot
and turning off the engine. LU-7
Power steering fluid
level and linesCheck the level on the dipstick with the engine off. Check the lines for improper
attachment, leaks, cracks, etc.
MA-32
Exhaust system
Make sure there are no loose supports, cracks or holes. If the sound of the ex-
haust seems unusual or there is a smell of exhaust fumes, immediately locate
the trouble and correct it. MA-21
Underbody
The underbody is frequently exposed to corrosive substances such as those
used on icy roads or to control dust. It is very important to remove these sub-
stances, otherwise rust will form on the floor pan, frame, fuel lines and around
the exhaust system. At the end of winter, the underbody should be thoroughly
flushed with plain water, being careful to clean those areas where mud and dirt
can easily accumulate. —
Fluid leaks Check under the vehicle for fuel, oil, water or other fluid leaks after the vehicle
has been parked for a while. Water dripping from the air conditioner after use is
normal. If you should notice any leaks or gasoline fumes are evident, check for
the cause and correct it immediately. —
Revision: 2010 May2011 QX56
