Owner Maintenance

The following lists are vehicle checks and inspections that should be performed at the intervals indicated to help ensure safe and reliable operation of your vehicle.

Any abnormal conditions should be brought to the attention of your dealer as soon as possible.

These owner maintenance checks are generally not covered by the warranty, and you may be charged for labor, parts, and lubricants used.

Owner Maintenance Schedule

When you stop for fuel:

• Check the engine oil level.
• Check the coolant level in the coolant reservoir.
• Check the windshield washer fluid level.
• Look for low or under-inflated tires.

WARNING

Be careful when checking the coolant level with a hot engine running. Scalding hot coolant and steam may be discharged under pressure. This may cause burns or other serious injury.

While operating the vehicle:

• Pay attention to any changes in the exhaust sound or any smell of exhaust fumes in the vehicle.
• Check for steering wheel vibration. Note any increase in steering effort or looseness of the steering wheel, or any change in its straight-ahead position.
• Check whether your vehicle constantly turns slightly or "pulls" to one side when driving on a smooth, level road.
• When stopping, listen for and check for unusual noises, pulling to one side, increased brake pedal travel, or a spongy brake pedal.
• If there is any slipping or change in the operation of your transmission, check the transmission fluid level.
• Check the operation of the manual transmission, including clutch operation.
• Check the automatic transmission P (Park) function.
• Check the parking brake.
• Check for fluid leaks under your vehicle (water dripping from the air conditioning system during or after use is normal).

At least monthly:

• Check the engine coolant level in the coolant reservoir.
• Check the operation of all exterior lights, including brake lights, turn signals, and hazard warning lights.
• Check the inflation pressure of all tires, including the spare tire. Replace tires that are worn, have uneven wear, or are damaged.
• Check whether the wheel mounting nuts are loose.

At least twice a year (i.e., spring and autumn):

• Check the radiator, heater, and A/C hoses for leaks or damage.
• Check the windshield washer nozzles and wiper operation. Clean the wiper blades with a clean cloth dampened with washer fluid.
• Check the headlight aim.
• Check the muffler, exhaust pipes, heat shields, and clamps.
• Check the seat belts for wear and function.

At least once a year:

• Clean the body and door drain holes.
• Lubricate the door hinges and latches, and the hood hinges.
• Lubricate the door and hood latches and locks.
• Lubricate the door rubber weatherstrips.
• Inspect the air conditioning system.
• Inspect and lubricate the automatic transmission linkage and controls.
• Clean the battery and battery terminals.
• Check the brake/clutch fluid level.