General Information

This Chapter has been prepared to help the vehicle owner keep the vehicle in a state of maximum readiness for operation, obtaining effective performance from it while observing economy and safety requirements.

At the beginning of the Chapter, the vehicle maintenance schedule is provided. Below, the reader is presented with Sections devoted to detailed descriptions of the procedure for performing each of the maintenance operations separately. The Section material includes descriptions of visual inspections, adjustments, removal and installation procedures for components, as well as various useful tips and recommendations. The illustrations provided at the beginning of the Section showing views of the engine compartment, suspension and steering help the reader locate the maintenance components on the vehicle.

By maintaining the vehicle in accordance with the mileage and time schedule and following the detailed recommendations below, the reader will obtain a clear work program, the performance of which will ensure the durability and reliability of the vehicle. Remember that this program is designed on a comprehensive basis, and performing only some of its items while neglecting others will not produce the desired result.

While servicing the vehicle, the reader will soon see that many procedures can and should be combined into common groups due to their similar nature or the proximity of the units. For example, if the vehicle is raised off the ground for any reason, take the opportunity to also check the condition of the exhaust system, suspension and steering components. Also, when using a torque wrench, check the tightening torque of all accessible threaded fasteners. When rotating the wheels, also check the condition of the brake components and wheel bearings.

The first step of any vehicle service is always the preparation of the technician. Carefully review the material of this Chapter, then make a list of components requiring attention, prepare the necessary tools and outline a brief plan of the work to be performed. If problems arise that cannot be resolved, seek help from automotive service specialists.