Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Routine Service

Engine Oil and Filter
The engine oil and filter should be changed at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. If the car is being driven in severe conditions, more frequent oil and filter changes are required.

Fuel Filter
A clogged filter can limit the speed at which the vehicle may be driven, damage the emission system and cause hard starting. If an excessive amount of foreign matter accumulates in the fuel tank, the filter may require replacement more frequently.
After installing a new filter, run the engine for several minutes, and check for leaks at the connections. Fuel filters should be installed by trained technicians.

Fuel Lines, Fuel Hoses and Connections
Check the fuel lines, fuel hoses and connections for leakage and damage. Have a trained technician replace any damaged or leaking parts immediately.

Vacuum, Crankcase Ventilation Hoses
Inspect the surface of hoses for evidence of heat and or mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber, cracking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive swelling indicate deterioration. Particular attention should be paid to examine those hose surfaces nearest to high heat sources, such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect the hose routing to assure that the hoses do not come in contact with any heat source, sharp edges or moving component which might cause heat damage or mechanical wear. Inspect all hose connections, such as clamps and couplings, to make sure they are secure, and that no leaks are present. Hoses should be replaced immediately if there is any evidence of deterioration or damage.

Vapor Hose and Fuel Filler Cap
The vapor hose and fuel filler cap should be inspected at those intervals specified in the maintenance schedule. Make sure that a new vapor hose or fuel filler cap is correctly replaced.


Spark Plugs
Make sure to install new spark plugs of the correct heat range.

Drive Belts
Inspect all drive belts for evidence of cuts, cracks, excessive wear or oil and replace if necessary. Drive belts should be checked periodically for proper tension and adjusted as necessary.

Engine Coolant
The coolant should be changed at the intervals specified in the maintenance schedule.

Timing Belt
Inspect all parts related to the timing belt for damage and deformation. Replace any damaged parts immediately.

Manual Transaxle Oil
Inspect the manual transaxle oil according to the maintenance schedule.

NOTE:
If the oil level is low, check for possible leaks before adding oil. Do not overfill.

Brake Fluid
Check brake fluid level in the brake fluid reservoir. The level should be between "MIN" and "MAX" marks on the side of the reservoir. Use only hydraulic brake fluid conforming to DOT 3.

Brake Hoses and Lines
Visually check for proper installation, chafing, cracks, deterioration and any leakage. Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts immediately.

Rear Brake Drums/Linings, Parking Brake
Check the rear brake drums and linings for scoring, burning, leaking fluid, broken parts, and excessive wear. Inspect the parking brake system including the parking brake lever and cables.

Brake Pads, Calipers and Rotors
Check the pads for excessive wear, discs for run out and wear, and calipers for fluid leakage.

Exhaust Pipe and Muffler
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler and hangers for cracks, deterioration, or damage. Start the engine and listen carefully for any exhaust gas leakage. Tighten connections or replace parts as necessary.

Suspension Mounting Bolts
Check the suspension connections for looseness or damage. Retighten to the specified torque.

Steering Gear Box, Linkage & Boots/Lower arm Ball Joint
With the vehicle stopped and engine off, check for excessive free-play in the steering wheel. Check the linkage for bends or damage. Check the dust boots and ball joints for deterioration, cracks, or damage. Replace any damaged parts.

Power Steering Pump, Belt and Hoses
Check the power steering pump and hoses for leakage and damage. Replace any damaged or leaking parts immediately. Inspect the power steering belt for evidence of cuts, cracks, excessive wear, oiliness and proper tension. Replace or adjust it if necessary.

Driveshafts and Boots
Check the drive shafts, boots and clamps for cracks, deterioration, or damage. Replace any damaged parts and, if necessary, repack the grease.

Air Conditioning Refrigerant
Check the air conditioning lines and connections for leakage and damage.

Air Bag
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) should be inspected every ten years.