
WARNING!(Continued)
•Keep hands, tools, clothing, and jewelry away from
the radiator cooling fan when the hood is raised. The
fan starts automatically and may start at any time,
whether the engine is running or not.
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, discon-
nect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition switch to
the OFF position. The fan is temperature controlled
and can start at any time the ignition switch is in the
ON position.
• You or others can be badly burned by hot engine
coolant (antifreeze) or steam from your radiator. If
you see or hear steam coming from under the hood,
do not open the hood until the radiator has had time
to cool. Never try to open a cooling system pressure
cap when the radiator is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check engine coolant (antifreeze) protection every 12
months (before the onset of freezing weather, where appli-
cable). If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or rusty in
appearance, the system should be drained, flushed, and
refilled with fresh engine coolant (antifreeze). Check the
front of the A/C condenser for any accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. If dirty, clean by gently spraying water from a
garden hose vertically down the face of the condenser.
Check the coolant recovery bottle tubing for brittle rubber,
cracking, tears, cuts, and tightness of the connection at the
bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire system for leaks.
Cooling System — Drain, Flush And Refill
NOTE:
Some vehicles require special tools to add coolant
properly. Failure to fill these systems properly could lead to
severe internal engine damage. If any coolant is needed to
be added to the system please contact your local autho-
rized dealer.
If the engine coolant (antifreeze) is dirty or contains visible
sediment, have an authorized dealer clean and flush with
OAT coolant (antifreeze) (conforming to MS.90032).
Refer to the “Maintenance Plan” in this section for the
proper maintenance intervals.
Selection Of Coolant
Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifica-
tions” for further information.
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 293

Disposal Of Used Engine Coolant
Used ethylene glycol-based engine coolant (antifreeze) is a
regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with
your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for
your community. To prevent ingestion by animals or
children, do not store ethylene glycol-based engine coolant
in open containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the
ground. If ingested by a child or pet, seek emergency
assistance immediately. Clean up any ground spills imme-
diately.
Coolant Level
The coolant expansion bottle provides a quick visual
method for determining that the coolant level is adequate.
With the engine off and cold, the level of the engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the bottle should be between the “MAX” and
“MIN” lines marked on the bottle.
As long as the engine operating temperature is satisfactory,
the coolant bottle need only be checked once a month.
When additional engine coolant (antifreeze) is needed to
maintain the proper level, it should be added to the coolant
bottle. Do not overfill.
Points To Remember
NOTE:When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/
kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor coming
from the front of the engine compartment. This is normally
a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity
accumulating on the radiator and being vaporized when
the thermostat opens, allowing hot engine coolant (anti-
freeze) to enter the radiator.
If an examination of your engine compartment shows no
evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be
safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate.
• Do not overfill the coolant expansion bottle.
• Check the coolant freeze point in the radiator and in the
coolant expansion bottle. If engine coolant (antifreeze)
needs to be added, the contents of the coolant expansion
bottle must also be protected against freezing.
• If frequent engine coolant (antifreeze) additions are
required, the cooling system should be pressure tested
for leaks.
•
Maintain engine coolant (antifreeze) concentration at a
minimum of 50% OAT coolant (conforming to MS.90032)
and distilled water for proper corrosion protection of your
engine which contains aluminum components.
296 SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE

•Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle is
equipped with air conditioning, keep the front of the
condenser clean.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter
operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY
the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in
unsatisfactory engine coolant (antifreeze) performance,
poor gas mileage, and increased emissions.
Brake System
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake
system components should be inspected periodically. Refer
to the “Maintenance Plan” for the proper maintenance
intervals.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possi-
bly a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding
on the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible
brake damage. You would not have your full braking
capacity in an emergency.
Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked
when performing under hood services, or immediately if
the brake system warning light is on.
Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before
removing the cap. If necessary, add fluid to bring the fluid
level up to the requirements described on the brake fluid
reservoir. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake
pads wear. The brake fluid level should be checked when
the pads are replaced. However, low fluid level may be
caused by a leak and a checkup may be needed.
NOTE: If your vehicle is equipped with a manual trans-
mission, the brake fluid reservoir supplies fluid to both the
brake system and the clutch release system. The two
systems are separated in the reservoir, and a leak in one
system will not affect the other system. The manual
transmission clutch release system should not require fluid
replacement during the life of the vehicle. If the brake fluid
reservoir is low and the brake system does not indicate any
leaks or other problems, it may be a result of a leak in the
hydraulic clutch release system. See your local authorized
dealer for service.
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 297

Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug. The fluid
level should be between the bottom of the fill hole and a
point not more than 3/16 inch (4.7 mm) below the bottom
of the hole.
Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper level.
Please see your authorized dealer for service.
Frequency Of Fluid Change
Under normal operating conditions, the fluid installed at
the factory will give satisfactory lubrication for the life of
the vehicle. Fluid changes are not necessary unless lubri-
cant has become contaminated with water.
NOTE:If contaminated with water, the fluid should be
changed immediately.
Automatic Transmission (Six-Speed) — If Equipped
Selection Of Lubricant (Six-Speed Transmission)
It is important to use the proper transmission fluid to
ensure optimum transmission performance and life. Use
only the manufacturer ’s specified transmission fluid. Refer
to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical Specifications” for fluid specifications. It is important to maintain the
transmission fluid at the correct level using the recom-
mended fluid.
No chemical flushes should be used in any transmission;
only the approved lubricant should be used.
CAUTION!
Using a transmission fluid other than the manufactur-
er ’s recommended fluid may cause deterioration in
transmission shift quality and/or torque converter
shudder. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Techni-
cal Specifications” for fluid specifications.
Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives
to the transmission. The only exception to this policy is the
use of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid using
transmission sealers as they may adversely affect seals.
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 299

Special Additives
The manufacturer strongly recommends against using any
special additives in the transmission.
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) is an engineered
product and its performance may be impaired by supple-
mental additives. Therefore, do not add any fluid additives
to the transmission. The only exception to this policy is the
use of special dyes for diagnosing fluid leaks. Avoid using
transmission sealers as they may adversely affect seals.
CAUTION!
Do not use chemical flushes in your transmission as
the chemicals can damage your transmission compo-
nents. Such damage is not covered by the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty.
Fluid Level Check
The fluid level is preset at the factory and does not require
adjustment under normal operating conditions.
Routine fluid level checks are not required, therefore the
transmission filler tube is capped and no dipstick is
provided. Your authorized dealer can check your transmis-
sion fluid level using special service tools. If you noticefluid leakage or transmission malfunction, visit your au-
thorized dealer immediately to have the transmission fluid
level checked. Operating the vehicle with an improper
fluid level can cause severe transmission damage.
CAUTION!
If a transmission fluid leak occurs, visit your autho-
rized dealer immediately. Severe transmission damage
may occur. Your authorized dealer has the proper tools
to adjust the fluid level accurately.
Fluid And Filter Changes
Refer to the
Maintenance Plan for the proper maintenance
intervals. In addition, change the fluid and filter if the fluid
becomes contaminated (with water, etc.), or if the transmis-
sion is disassembled for any reason.
Rear Drive Assembly (RDA) — AWD/4WD Models
Only
Lubricant Selection
Use only the manufacturer ’s recommended transmission
fluid. Refer to “Fluids And Lubricants” in “Technical
Specifications” for further information.
8
SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE 301

BRAKE SYSTEM
Your vehicle is equipped with power assisted brakes as
standard equipment. In the event power assist is lost for
any reason (for example, repeated brake applications with
the engine off), the brakes will still function. However, the
effort required to brake the vehicle will be much greater
than that required with the power system operating.
WARNING!
Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possi-
bly a collision. Driving with your foot resting or riding
on the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake
temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible
brake damage. You would not have your full braking
capacity in an emergency.
If either of the two hydraulic systems lose normal capabil-
ity, the remaining system will still function with some loss
of overall braking effectiveness. This will be evident by
increased pedal travel during application and greater pedal
force required to slow or stop. In addition, if the malfunc-
tion is caused by an internal leak, as the brake fluid in the
master cylinder drops, the “Brake Warning Light” will
light.
WARNING!
Driving a vehicle with the “Brake Warning Light” on is
dangerous. A significant decrease in braking perfor-
mance or vehicle stability during braking may occur. It
will take you longer to stop the vehicle or will make
your vehicle harder to control. You could have a
collision. Have the vehicle checked immediately.
WHEEL AND TIRE TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
Proper lug nut/bolt torque is very important to ensure that
the wheel is properly mounted to the vehicle. Any time a
wheel has been removed and reinstalled on the vehicle the
lug nuts/bolts should be torqued using a properly cali-
brated torque wrench.
Torque Specifications
Lug Nut/Bolt Torque **Lug Nut/ Bolt SizeLug Nut/
Bolt
Socket Size
100 Ft-Lbs (135 N·m) M12 x 1.5 19 mm
**Use only your authorized dealer recommended lug nuts/
bolts and clean or remove any dirt or oil before tightening.
9
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 329

Adding Engine Coolant (Antifreeze).............294
Adding Fuel ............................. .219
Adding Washer Fluid ....................... .285
Additives, Fuel ........................... .333
Adjust Down .................................36
Forward ................................36
Rearward ...............................36
Up....................................36
AirBag ................................ .164
Air Bag Operation ....................... .166
Air Bag Warning Light .....................163
Enhanced Accident Response .............172, 274
Event Data Recorder (EDR) .................274
If A Deployment Occurs ....................171
Knee Impact Bolsters ..................... .167
Maintaining Your Air Bag System .............173
Side Air Bags .......................... .167
Transporting Pets ....................... .188
Air Bag Light ...................... .99, 163, 190
Air Bag Maintenance ....................... .173
Air Cleaner, Engine (Engine Air Cleaner Filter) ......289
Air Conditioner Maintenance ..................287
Air Conditioning ............................55
Air Conditioning Controls .....................55 Air Conditioning Filter
....................65, 288
Air Conditioning, Operating Tips .............64, 66
Air Conditioning Refrigerant ...............287, 288
Air Conditioning System ................55, 63, 287
Air Pressure, Tires ..........................311
Alarm (Security Alarm) ..................... .101
Alarm System (Security Alarm) .................27
Alterations/Modifications, Vehicle ................7
Antenna, Satellite Radio ..................... .357
Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ................293, 335
Capacities ............................. .335
Disposal .............................. .296
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) .................130
Anti-Lock Warning Light .....................109
Assistance
Towing......................... .378
Assist, Hill Start .......................... .132
Automatic Dimming Mirror ....................44
Automatic Door Locks .....................30, 31
Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) ............63
Automatic Transaxle .........................21
Fluid Level Check ....................... .301
Automatic Transmission ............202, 203, 299, 300
Fluid And Filter Changes ...................301
Fluid Level Check ....................... .300
Fluid Type ...................... .299, 300, 338
404 INDEX

Gear Ranges........................ .204, 209
Special Additives .....................299, 301
Axle Fluid .............................. .338
Battery ................................. .102
Charging System Light ....................102
Belts, Seat ............................... .190
Body Mechanism Lubrication ..................290
B-Pillar Location .......................... .306
Brake Assist System ........................ .132
Brake Fluid .............................. .338
Brake, Parking ............................ .198
Brakes ................................. .329
Brake System ......................... .297, 329
Master Cylinder ........................ .297
Parking .............................. .198
Warning Light .......................... .100
Brake/Transmission Interlock ..................203
Bulb Replacement ......................... .243
Bulbs, Light .......................... .192, 243
Calibration, Compass ....................... .124
Camera, Rear ............................ .217
Capacities, Antifreeze (Engine Coolant) ...........335
Capacities, Fluid .......................... .335Caps, Filler
Fuel ................................. .219
Oil (Engine) ..................... .282, 283, 286
Power Steering ......................... .213
Radiator (Coolant Pressure) .................295
Carbon Monoxide Warning ................189, 334
Cargo Area Cover ...........................74
Cargo Area Features .........................74
Cargo Compartment .........................74
Light ..................................74
Luggage Carrier ..........................91
Cargo Light ...............................74
Cargo Load Floor ...........................75
Cargo Tie-Downs ...........................76
Car Washes .............................. .324
Cellular
Phone........................ .367, 395
Center High Mounted Stop Light ...............245
Certification Label ......................... .220
Chains, Tire ............................. .320
Changing A Flat Tire .....................249, 302
Check Engine Light (Malfunction Indicator Light). . . .127
Checking Your Vehicle For Safety ...............189
Checks, Safety ............................ .189
Child Restraint ........................... .174
12
INDEX 405