Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Periodic Maintenance










PERIODIC MAINTENANCE INSPECTION
Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year, for instance, each spring and fall. A dealer's service department or qualified service center should perform these inspections. All repairs should be completed at once.

STEERING, SUSPENSION AND FRONT WHEEL DRIVE SHAFT BOOT AND SEAL INSPECTION
Inspect the front and the rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, etc. Clean and then inspect the front wheel drive shaft boot seals for damage, tears or leakage. Service the vehicle as necessary.

EXHAUST SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect the complete system. Inspect the body near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, missing or out-of-position parts as well as open seams, holes, loose connections or other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into the vehicle. Service the vehicle as necessary.

FUEL SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect the complete fuel system for damage or leaks.

ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect the hoses and replace them if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once per year.

THROTTLE SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding, and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed. Replace any components that have high effort or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and cruise control cables.

BRAKE SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect the complete system. Inspect the brake lines and the hoses for proper hookup, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect the disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts, including the calipers, the parking brake, etc. The brakes may need to be inspected more often if driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.