Additional Checks/Inspections
AT LEAST ONCE A YEARMOVABLE HEAD RESTRAINT OPERATION
Ensure the restraints stay in the desired position.
SETBACK LATCH AND RECLINER OPERATION
On the folding seats, ensure the setbacks latch. Ensure the recliner is staying anchored by pushing and pulling on the top of the seat back while it is reclined.
SPARE TIRE AND JACK STORAGE
Observe rattles in the rear of the vehicle. Ensure the spare tire, all jacking equipment, and any covers are securely stowed, according to instructions, at all times. Oil the jack lead screw, long threaded rod after each use. Ensure that the spare tire is properly inflated.
WEATHERSTRIP LUBRICATION
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better and not stick or squeal. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, damp weather, more frequent application may be required.
KEY LOCK SERVICE
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the recommended lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations .
BRAKE TRANSAXLE SHIFT INTERLOCK (BTSI)
CAUTION: WHEN YOU ARE DOING THIS CHECK, THE VEHICLE COULD MOVE SUDDENLY. IF IT DOES, YOU OR OTHERS COULD BE INJURED. FOLLOW THE STEPS BELOW.
Brake transaxle shift interlock the parking brake should be set and the key should be turned to the RUN position without starting the engine. Attempt to move the shift selector from the Park (P) position. The selector should not move until the brake has been depressed. Service as necessary.
WIPER BLADE REFILL KIT
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace the blade inserts that appear to be worn or damaged or that steak or miss areas of the windshield.
STARTER SAFETY SWITCH OPERATION
CAUTION: WHEN YOU ARE DOING THIS CHECK, THE VEHICLE COULD MOVE SUDDENLY. IF IT DOES, YOU OR OTHERS COULD BE INJURED. FOLLOW THE STEPS BELOW.
Ensure enough room around the vehicle.
^ Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake.
^ On automatic transaxle vehicles, try to start the engine in each gear. The starter should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the starter works in any other position, vehicle needs service.
^ On manual transaxle vehicles, put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N), push the clutch down halfway and try to start the engine. The starter should work only when the clutch is pushed down all the way to the floor. If the starter works when the clutch is not pushed all the way down, service vehicle.
STEERING COLUMN LOCK OPERATION
While parked, try to turn the key to OFF in each shiftier position. The key should turn to OFF only when the selector is in Park (P). Service as necessary.
PARKING BRAKE AND TRANSAXLE PARK
CAUTION: WHEN YOU ARE DOING THIS CHECK, YOUR VEHICLE COULD BEGIN TO MOVE. YOU OR OTHERS COULD BE INJURED AND PROPERTY COULD BE DAMAGED. MAKE SURE THERE IS ROOM IN FRONT OF YOUR VEHICLE IN CASE IT BEGINS TO ROLL. BE READY TO APPLY THE REGULAR BRAKE AT ONCE SHOULD THE VEHICLE BEGIN TO MOVE.
To check the parking brake, follow this procedure:
^ Park on a slight downhill grade.
^ Apply the brake pedal.
^ Fully apply the parking brake. The red BRAKE light should come on when the ignition is turned to the "RUN" or "ACC" position.
^ With the engine running and the transmission in Neutral (N), slowly let up on the brake pedal until the car is held in place by only the parking brake. If the parking brake will not hold the vehicle or the BRAKE light does not stay on have vehicle serviced. To check the automatic transaxle Park (P) mechanism holding ability, release all brakes after shifting the transaxle to Park (P).
UNDERBODY CLEANING
At least every spring, clean the underbody with water to remove any corrosive substances used for ice and snow removal and dust control. Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud and other debris can collect. Sediment packed in closed areas of the vehicle should be loosened before being cleaned.
UNDERHOOD CLEANING
Do not use abrasive cleaners, like chrome polish to clean engine and its components.
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM INSPECTION
Inspect and test the protection against overheating and freezing. If the coolant is dirty or has a rusty appearance, drain, flush and refill with new coolant. Keep it at the 50/50 mixture. This provides proper freeze protection, corrosion inhibitor level, and engine operation temperature.
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps, replace as needed. Carefully clean the outside of the radiator and the air conditioner condenser to avoid damage to their fins. Wash the filler cap and neck.
To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.