0B–6
MAINTENANCE AND LUBRICATION
Battery fluid level
Check fluid level in the battery.
Fluid Leak Check
Check for fuel, water, oil or other fluid leaks by looking at
the surface beneath the vehicle after it has been parked
for a while. Water dripping from the air conditioning
system after use is normal. If you notice gasoline fumes or
fluid at any time, locate the source and correct it at once.
Engine Oil and Oil Filter Replacement
Always use API SE, SF, SG, SH or ILSAC GF–1 quality
oils of the proper viscosity.
When choosing an oil, consider the range of
temperatures the car will be operated in before the next oil
change. Then, select the recommended oil viscosity from
the chart.
Always change the oil and the oil filter as soon as possible
after driving in a dust storm.
Engine Cooling System Inspection
Inspect the coolant/anti–freeze. If the coolant is dirty or
rusty, drain, flush and refill with new coolant. 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. Tighten the hose clamps if
equipped with screw–type clamps. Clean outside of
radiator and air conditioning condenser. Wash filler cap
and neck. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure
test of both the cooling system and the cap is also
recommended.
Exhaust System Inspection
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler, heat shields
and hangers for cracks, deterioration, or damage.
Be alert to any changes in the sound of the exhaust
system or any smell of fumes. These are signs the system
may be leaking or overheating. Repair the system at
once, if these conditions exist. (See also “Engine Exhaust
Gas Safety” and “Three Way Catalytic Converter” in the
Owner’s manual.)
Fuel Cap, Fuel Lines, and Fuel Tank
Inspection
Inspect the fuel tank, the fuel cap and the fuel lines every
60,000 miles (96,000 km) for damage which could cause
leakage.
Inspect the fuel cap and the gasket for correct sealing and
physical damage. Replace any damaged parts.
Drive Belt Inspection
Check the serpentine belt driving for cracks, fraying,
wear, and correct tension every 30,000 miles (48,000
km). Replace as necessary.
Wheel Alignment, Balance and Tires
Operation
Uneven or abnormal tire wear, or a pull right or left on a
straight and level road may show the need for a wheel
alignment. A vibration of the steering wheel or seat at
normal highway speeds means a wheel balancing is
needed. Check tire pressure when the tires are “cold”
(include the spare).
Maintain pressure as shown in the tire placard, which is
located on the driver’s door lock pillar.
Steering System Operation
Be alert for any changes in steering action. An inspection
or service is needed when the steering wheel is harder to
turn or has too much free play, or if there are unusual
sounds when turning or parking.
Brake Systems Operation
Watch for the “BRAKE” light coming on. Other signs of
possible brake trouble are such things as repeated pulling
to one side when braking, unusual sounds when braking
or between brake applications, or increased brake pedal
travel. If you note one of these conditions, repair the
system at once.
For convenience, the following should be done when
wheels are removed for rotation: Inspect lines and hoses
for proper hookup, bindings, leaks, crack, chafing etc.
Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface
condition.
Inspect other brake parts, including parking brake drums,
linings etc., at the same time. Check parking brake
adjustment.
Inspect the brakes more often if habit or conditions
result in frequent braking.
Parking Brake and Transmission Park
Mechanism Operation
Park on a fairly steep hill and hold the vehicle with the
parking brake only. This checks holding ability. On
automatic transmission vehicles, shifting from “P”
position to the other positions cannot be made unless the
brake pedal is depressed when the key switch is in the
“ON” position or the engine is running.
WARNING: BEFORE CHECKING THE STARTER
SAFETY SWITCH OPERATION BELOW, BE SURE TO
HAVE ENOUGH ROOM AROUND THE VEHICLE.
THEN FIRMLY APPLY BOTH THE PARKING BRAKE
AND THE REGULAR BRAKE. DO NOT USE THE
ACCELERATOR PEDAL. IF THE ENGINE STARTS,
BE READY TO TURN OFF THE KEY PROMPTLY.
TAKE THESE PRECAUTIONS BECAUSE THE
VEHICLE COULD MOVE WITHOUT WARNING AND
POSSIBLY CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY OR
PROPERTY DAMAGE.
Starter Safety Switch Operation
(Automatic Transmission)
Check by trying to start the engine in each gear while
setting the parking brake and the foot brake. The starter
should crank only in “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral).
Starter Safety Switch Operation (Manual
Transmission)
To check, place the shift lever in “Neutral”, push the clutch
pedal halfway and try to start. The starter should not