 Automatic
transmission fluid
Check fluid
level with engine running and transmission in
park. If low, add the type of automatic
transmission fluid specified in the owner's manual
and/or on dipstick. For maximum performance,
change every two years or 24,000 miles, or as
directed in owners manual.
Battery
and cables
Battery
should be securely mounted. Battery
connection should be clean, tight and corrosion
free. If the battery is three years old or
more, it should be tested and replaced if
necessary.
Belts
Check
V-belts and serpentine belts for looseness and
condition. Replace when cracked, frayed,
glazed or showing signs of excessive wear.
Replace timing belt per interval specified in
owner's manual. Typically this is 60,000 to
90,000 miles. Not replacing the belt as
required could cause a breakdown or serious engine
damage.
Brakes
Check the
entire brake system every year, including brake
linings, rotors and drums.
Cabin
air filter
Replace
annually, or more often in areas with heavy
airborne contaminants or whenever hearing or
cooling efficiency is reduced.
Chassis
lubrication
Many newer
cars are lubed-for-life; some still require this
service. Check owner's manual.
Replacement steering and suspension components may
require periodic lubrication. |
Check
engine light on
If light
comes on while driving or remains on, your vehicle
may have an emissions or sensor problem and should
be analyzed. if light flashes, the condition
is more severe and must be checked immediately to
prevent catalytic converter damage.
Cleaning
and polishing
To prevent
stripping the vehicle's was finish, use only
automotive car wash products, not dish washing
liquids. Polish at least twice a year to
maintain and protect the finish.
Coolant/Antifreeze
Check level
at reservoir. Never open a hot radiator
cap. If low, add 50/50 mix of approved
antifreeze and distilled water. Change
coolant annually on most vehicles.
Engine
air filter
Inspect
filter at each oil change. Replace annually
or when leaking, torn, water or oil soaked, dirty
or showing other signs of wear.
Engine
oil and filter
Check level
with engine off at every fill up. For
maximum engine life, change oil and filter every
three months or 3,000 miles or as directed in your
owner's manual. Use specified oil grade and
weight.
Exhaust
Inspect for
leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if
there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can
be dangerous and must be corrected without delay. |
Fuel
filter
Inspect
filter at each oil change. Replace if
restricted or water contaminated or once a year on
cars with carburetors. On cars with fuel
injection, replace filter every two years.
Hoses
Inspect
hoses at each oil change and replace when leaking,
brittle, cracked, rusted, swollen or restricted.
Lights
Replace
bulb immediately if light is out. Check
fusses first.
Power
steering fluid
Check the
fluid with the car warmed up. Add correct
type of fluid if low. If frequently topping
off is required, inspect for leaks and replace it.
Steering
and suspension
Inspect
system annually, including shock absorbers, struts
and chassis parts, such as ball joints, tie rod
ends and other related components. Replace
if leaks, damage and loose mounting hardware are
found. Symptoms of worn suspension include
uneven tire wear and excessive bouncing after
bumps.
Tire
inflation and condition
Check the
pressure of all tires, including the spare, at
every oil change. Check the tread for uneven
or irregular wear and cuts or bruises along the
sidewalls. Inflate tires and maintain at
recommended pressure. Replace tires if worn
or damaged.
Windshield
washer fluid
Check fluid
level monthly. Some vehicles have two
reservoirs. Do not use water, Use
washer fluid only.
Wiper
Blades
Replace
every six months or when cracked, cut, torn,
streaking or chattering. |
Check
engine light on
