Air Filter
Replace when dirty or as part of a tune-up.
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Replace the air filter when it's dirty or as part of a tune-up. It's typically found in a rectangular box at the front end of the air duct hose assembly. |
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Antifreeze
Checking coolant level.
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Some cars have transparent reservoirs with level markings. Fill to level marking with 50/50 solution of antifreeze and water.
Do not remove the pressure cap when engine is hot. Add the approved fluid type only when needed. |
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Battery
Have the battery checked with every oil change.
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Use extreme caution when handling a battery since it can produce explosive gases. Do not smoke, create a spark or light a match near a battery and always wear protective glasses and gloves. Have it checked with every oil change. Cable ends should be free of corrosion. If battery has filler holes, add only clear odorless drinking water. |
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Belts
Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts.
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Replace worn, glazed or frayed belts. Tighten them when more than 1/2" of slack can be depressed between the pulleys. Vehicles with spring loaded belt tensioners require no adjustment. |
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Brake Fluid
Fill to mark on reservoir. Do not overfill.
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First, wipe dirt from the brake master cylinder reservoir lid. Pry off the retainer clip and remove the lid or unscrew plastic lid, depending on which type your vehicle has. If you need fluid, add the approved type. Fill to the mark on the reservoir. Low fluid may indicate a leak. If you suspect this is the case, have your mechanic inspect it.
Do not overfill. |
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Engine Oil
Remove the dipstick and wipe clean. Insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil.
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Make sure the car is on level pavement. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean. Insert it fully and remove it again. If it is low, add oil. To maintain peak performance, change oil every 5,000 to 8,000 km or every 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change. |
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Exhaust
Any loud exhaust noise may indicate a leak in the system.
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Any loud exhaust noise may indicate a leak in the system. Look underneath for loose or broken exhaust clamps and supports. Check for holes in muffler or pipes. Replace rusted or damaged parts. Have emissions checked at least once every two years for compliance with local laws. |
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Hoses
Aging coolant hoses need extra care.
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Aging coolant hoses need extra care. If a hose has a bulge, feels too soft or feels too hard, replace it. |
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Lights
Have someone check that your head lamps and turn signals are clean and working.
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Also check brake lights, high mount stop lamp, and emergency flashers. Keep spare fuses in your vehicle. |
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Oil Filter
Change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first.
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To maintain peak performance, change oil every 3,000 miles or 3 months, whichever comes first. Replace oil filter with every oil change. |
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Power Steering Fluid
If the level is down, it may be an indication of a leak in the system.
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Inspect the pump and hoses for leaks. Check level by removing the reservoir dipstick. If the level is down, simply remove the reservoir dipstick and add the recommended type of fluid. A low fluid level may indicate a leak in the system. |
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Shock Absorbers
Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced, always in pairs.
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Look for signs of oil seepage on shock absorbers, test shock action by bouncing the car up and down. The car should stop bouncing when you step back. Worn or leaking shocks should be replaced. Always replace shock absorbers in pairs. |
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Tires
Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure.
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Keep tires inflated to recommended pressure. Check when cold. It helps to have your own gauge. Check for cuts, bulges and excessive tread wear. Uneven wear indicates tires are misaligned or out of balance. Keep a record of tire rotation. Rotate tires every 12,000 to 15,000 km. Keep a record of tire rotation. |
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Transmission Fluid
Check monthly or if you notice any puddles underneath the car.
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Check transmission fluid monthly or if you notice any puddles underneath the car. Also, with engine warm and running, and parkingcheck your owner's manual to see if your car should be warmed up first brake on. Shift to drive, then to park. Remove dipstick, wipe dry, insert it and remove it again. Add only use the approved type fluid, if needed.
Do not overfill. |
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Washer Fluid
Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full.
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Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full. When topping off, use some windshield washer fluid on a rag to clean off the wiper blades. In the winter months, pay attention to the freezing point of the washer fluid. Washer fluid rated to -40° Celsius is recommended. |
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Wiper Blades
Inspect windshield wiper blades every 3 months. Replace when they're torn or leaving streaks on the windshield.
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Keep windshield washer fluid reservoir full. When topping off, use some windshield washer fluid on a rag to clean off the wiper blades. In the winter months, pay attention to the freezing point of the washer fluid. Washer fluid rated to -40° Celsius is recommended. |
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