Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Routine Service

Owner Checks and Services

Listed in this part are owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle.

Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in Part D.


At Each Fuel Fill

It is important for you or a service station attendant to perfom these underhood checks at each fuel fill.

Engine Oil Level Check

Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if necessary.

Engine Coolant Level Check

Check the engine coolant level and add the proper coolant mixture if necessary.

Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check

Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield washer tank and add the proper fluid if necessary.

At Least Once a Month

Tire Inflation Check

Make sure tires are inflated to the correct pressures. Don't forget to check your spare tire.

Cassette Deck Service

Clean cassette deck. Cleaning should be done every 50 hours of tape play.

At Least Twice a Year

Restraint System Check

Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.

Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)


Wiper Blade Check

Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade inserts that appear worn or damaged or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.

Spare Tire Check

At least twice a year, after the monthly inflation check of the spare tire determines that the spare is inflated to the correct tire inflation pressure, make sure that the spare tire is stored securely. Push. pull, and then try to rotate or turn the tire. If it moves tighten the cable.

Weatherstrip Lubrication

Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth.During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required.

Manual Transmission Check

Check the transmission fluid level: add if needed. Check for leaks. A fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. Have the system inspected and repaired if needed.

Automatic Transmission Check

Check the transmission fluid level add if needed. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Check the system and repair if needed.

Hydraulic Clutch System Check

Check the fluid level in the clutch reservoir. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired at once.

At Least Four Times a Year

Tailgate Lubrication Service

Lubricate tailgate latch bolt, handle assembly pivot points, and hinges with lubricant.

At Least Once a Year

Key Lock Cylinders Service

Lubricate the key lock cylinders.

Body Lubrication Service

Lubricate all all hood hinges, hood latch assembly, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, door hinges, fuel door hinge, endgate hinges, locks, glove box, console doors, moving seat hardware and folding seat hardware. More frequent lubrication may be required when exposed to a corrosive environment.