Under Hood - General Maintenance

MAINTENANCE: UNDER HOOD: GENERAL MAINTENANCE

1. GENERAL NOTES

* Maintenance requirements vary depending on the country.

* Check the maintenance schedule.

* Following the maintenance schedule is mandatory.

* Determine the appropriate time to service the vehicle using either distance driven or time (months) elapsed, whichever reaches the specification first.

* Maintain similar intervals between periodic maintenance unless noted.

* Failing to check each vehicle part could lead to poor engine performance and increased exhaust emissions.

2. WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID

(a) Check that there is sufficient fluid in the tank.

3. ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL

(a) Check that the coolant level is between the "F" and "L" lines on the see-through reservoir.

4. RADIATOR AND HOSES

(a) Check that the front of the radiator is clean and free of leaves, dirt and bugs.

(b) Check the hoses for cracks, kinks, rotting or loose connections.

5. BATTERY ELECTROLYTE LEVEL

(a) Check that the electrolyte level of all the battery cells is between the upper and lower lines on the case.

HINT
If the electrolyte level is difficult to see, lightly shake the vehicle.

6. BRAKE FLUID LEVEL

(a) Check that the brake fluid levels are near the upper level line on the see-through reservoirs Testing and Inspection.

7. ENGINE DRIVE BELT

(a) Check the drive belt for fraying, cracks, wear or oiliness.

8. ENGINE OIL LEVEL

(a) Check the oil level on the dipstick with the engine turned off.

9. POWER STEERING FLUID LEVEL

(a) Check the level on the dipstick.

(b) The level should be in the "HOT" or "COLD" range depending on the fluid temperature.

10. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID

(a) Visually check the overflow plug and oil pan for fluid leaks or traces of fluid.

11. EXHAUST SYSTEM

(a) Check for unusual exhaust sounds or abnormal exhaust fumes. Locate the cause and correct it.