At Least Once A Year

WARNINGS:
^ Before checking the holding ability of the parking brake and automatic transmission park mechanism, park on a fairly steep hill with enough room for movement in the downhill direction. To reduce the risk of personal injury or property damage, be prepared to apply the regular brakes promptly if the vehicle begins to move.

^ Before performing the following transmission neutral start switch check, be sure to have enough room around the vehicle. Then, firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brakes. Do not use the accelerator pedal. If the engine starts, be ready to turn off the ignition promptly. Take these precautions because the vehicle could move without warning and possibly cause personal injury or property damage.

Parking Brake And Transmission Park Mechanism Operation
To check the parking brake, with the engine running, parking brake set and transmission in "NEUTRAL," Slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal until the vehicle is held only by the parking brake.

To check the automatic transmission park mechanism holding ability, release all brakes after shifting the transmission to "PARK."

Transmission Neutral Start Switch Operation
On automatic transmission vehicles, try to start the engine in each gear. The starter should crank only in "PARK" or "NEUTRAL."

On manual transmission vehicles, place the shift lever in "NEUTRAL," push the clutch pedal halfway and try to start. The starter should crank only when the clutch pedal is FULLY depressed.

Steering Column Lock Operation
While parked, try to turn the key to "LOCK" in each gear range. On vehicles with automatic transmissions, the key should turn to "LOCK" only when the gear selector is in "PARK." On vehicles with manual transmissions, the key should turn to "LOCK" only when the gear selector is in "REVERSE". On vehicles with key release button, try to turn to "LOCK" without depressing the button. The key should turn to "LOCK" only with the key button depressed.

Seatback Latch Operation
Be sure seatbacks latch on those vehicles with folding seats using mechanical latches.

Movable Head Restraint Operation (if equipped)
Make sure movable head restraints stay in the desired position.

Seatback Recliner Operation (if equipped)
Make sure the recliner is holding by pushing and pulling on the top of the seatback while it is reclined.

Spare Tire And Jack Storage
Be alert to rattles in rear of the vehicle. Make sure the spare tire, all jacking equipment and any covers or doors are securely stowed at all times. Oil the jack screw mechanism after each use.

Key Lock Service
Lubricate the key lock cylinder (except instrument panel compartment lock).

Underbody Flushing
At least every spring, flush from the underbody any corrosive materials used for ice and snow removal and dust control. Use plain water. Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud or other debris can collect. Sediment packed in closed areas of the vehicle should be loosened before being flushed.

Engine Cooling System
Inspect coolant and freeze protection. Keep coolant at the proper mixture for proper freeze protection, corrosion inhibitor level and best engine operating temperature. Inspect hoses and replace if cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Clean outside of radiator and air conditioning condenser. Clean filler cap and neck. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of both the cooling system and cap is also recommended.

Thermostatically Controlled Air Cleaner (if equipped)
Inspect all hoses and ducts for proper hookup. Be sure the valve works properly.

Windshield Wiper Blades
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. If the blade appears to be worn, cracked or does not wipe properly, replace the wiper blades or inserts as necessary.