Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own Service Work
You can be injured and the vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.
► Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before attempting any vehicle maintenance task.
► Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. Metric and English fasteners can be easily confused. If the wrong fasteners are used, parts can later break or fall off.
You could be hurt.
If doing some of your own service work, use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service the vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information .
This vehicle has an airbag system.
Before attempting to do your own service work, see Servicing the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle .
Keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work performed.
See Maintenance Records .
Hood
To open the hood:
1. Pull the hood release handle with this symbol on it. It is located under the instrument panel on the driver side of the vehicle.
2. At the front of the vehicle, pull up on the bottom center of the grille, and push the secondary hood release to the left.
3. After the lid has been partially lifted, a gas strut automatically lifts and holds the hood in the fully open position.
Before closing the hood, be sure all filler caps are on properly.
Pull the hood down to close.
Lower the hood until the lifting pressure of the strut is reduced.
Then allow the hood to fall and latch into place under its own weight.
Check to make sure the hood is closed. If the hood does not fully latch, gently push the hood down at the front and center until it is completely latched.
Engine Compartment Overview
A. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Cooling System .
B. Engine Coolant Recovery Cap. See Cooling System .
C. Remote Negative (−) Terminal.
See Jump Starting .
D. Engine Compartment Fuse Block .
E. Remote Positive (+) Terminal.
See Jump Starting .
F. Power Steering Reservoir and Cap (under engine cover).
See Power Steering Fluid .
G. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil” under Engine Oil .
H. Engine Cover .
I. Engine Oil Dipstick (out of view). See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil .
J. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick. See “Checking the Fluid Level” under Automatic Transmission Fluid .
K. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid” under Brakes .
L. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter .
M. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer Fluid” under Washer Fluid .
Engine Cover
A. Oil Fill Cap
B. Engine Cover
To remove:
1. Remove the oil fill cap (A).
2. Raise the engine cover (B) to release it from the retainers.
3. Lift and remove the engine cover.
4. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 to reinstall engine cover.
Engine Oil
To ensure proper engine performance and long life, careful attention must be paid to engine oil. Following these simple, but important steps will help protect your investment:
► Always use engine oil approved to the proper specification and of the proper viscosity grade.
See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section.
► Check the engine oil level regularly and maintain the proper oil level. See “Checking Engine Oil” and “When to Add Engine Oil” in this section.
► Change the engine oil at the appropriate time. See Engine Oil Life System .
► Always dispose of engine oil properly. See “What to Do with Used Oil” in this section.
Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil level at each fuel fill.
In order to get an accurate reading, the vehicle must be on level ground.
The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine oil dipstick.
Obtaining an accurate oil level reading is essential:
1. If the engine has been running recently, turn off the engine and allow several minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.
Checking the oil level too soon after engine shutoff will not provide an accurate oil level reading.
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way.
Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.
When to Add Engine Oil
If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level.
See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section for an explanation of what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications .
Notice: Do not add too much oil. Oil levels above or below the acceptable operating range shown on the dipstick are harmful to the engine. If you find that you have an oil level above the operating range, i.e., the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. You should drain out the excess oil or limit driving of the vehicle and seek a service professional to remove the excess amount of oil.
See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine oil fill cap.
Add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when through.
Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade.
See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .
Specification
Use and ask for licensed engine oils with the dexos1™ approved certification mark. Engine oils meeting the requirements for the vehicle should have the dexos1 approved certification mark.
This certification mark indicates that the oil has been approved to the dexos1 specification.
Notice: Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty. Check with your dealer or service provider on whether the oil is approved to the dexos1 specification.
Viscosity Grade
SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity grade oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50.
If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, always select an oil that meets the dexos1 specification or equivalent. See “Specification” for more information.
Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes
Do not add anything to the oil.
The recommended oils with the dexos specification and displaying the dexos certification mark are all that is needed for good performance and engine protection.
Engine oil system flushes are not recommended and could cause engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.
Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal.
Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash or pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil.
Engine Oil Life System
When to Change Engine Oil
This vehicle has a computer system that indicates when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on a combination of factors which include engine revolutions, engine temperature, and miles driven.
Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change is indicated can vary considerably.
For the oil life system to work properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it indicates that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on.
Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 1 000 km (600 mi).
It is possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the oil life system might indicate that an oil change is not necessary for up to a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and, at this time, the system must be reset. Your dealer has trained service people who will perform this work and reset the system. It is also important to check the oil regularly over the course of an oil drain interval and keep it at the proper level.
If the system is ever reset accidentally, the oil must be changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi) since the last oil change.
Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
Reset the system whenever the engine oil is changed so that the system can calculate the next engine oil change. To reset the system:
1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN, with the engine off.
2. Press the vehicle information button until OIL LIFE REMAINING displays.
3. Press and hold the set/reset button until “100%” is displayed.
Three chimes sound and the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message goes off.
4. Turn the key to LOCK/OFF.
If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not been reset. Repeat the procedure.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level.
► transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealer and have it repaired as soon as possible.
Change the fluid at the intervals listed in Maintenance Schedule , and be sure to use the transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .
Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission fluid may damage the vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use the automatic transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .
The transmission fluid will not reach the end of the dipstick unless the transmission is at operating temperature. If you need to check the transmission fluid level, please take the vehicle to your dealer.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the scheduled maintenance intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 80 000 km (50,000 mile) interval. See Maintenance Schedule for more information.
If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.
See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine air cleaner/filter.
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake the filter (away from vehicle) to release loose dust and dirt. If the filter remains covered with dirt, a new filter is required.
To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:
1. Remove the engine cover.
See Engine Cover
A. Ventilation Tube
B. Sensor
2. Disconnect the cover fitting from the ventilation tube (A).
3. Disconnect the wiring harness connector from the sensor (B).
A. Clamp
B. Screws
C. Housing Cover
D. Filter
E. Base
4. Loosen the outlet duct clamp (A).
5. Loosen the six housing cover (C) screws (B).
6. Remove the housing cover (C) with outlet duct.
7. Remove the filter (D) and any loose debris that may be found in the base (E).
8. Inspect or replace the filter (D).
9. Reverse Steps 2 through 6 to reinstall the housing cover and reconnect the electrical connector to the sensor.
10. Reinstall the engine cover.
See Engine Cover .
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. Use caution when working on the engine and do not drive with the air cleaner/filter off.
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can easily get into the engine, which could damage it.
Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you are driving.
Cooling System
The cooling system allows the engine to maintain the correct working temperature.
A. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank
B. Radiator Pressure Cap
C. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned.
Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle
Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® can cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner, at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always use DEX-COOL (silicate-free) coolant in the vehicle.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in the vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. The coolant is designed to remain in the vehicle for 5 years or 240 000 km (150,000 mi), whichever occurs first.
The following explains the cooling system and how to check and add coolant when it is low. If there is a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating .
What to Use
Adding only plain water or some other liquid to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water and other liquids, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will.
The coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.
With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant.
Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. If using this mixture, nothing else needs to be added.
This mixture:
► Gives freezing protection down to −37°C (−34°F), outside temperature.
► Gives boiling protection up to 129°C (265°F), engine temperature.
► Protects against rust and corrosion.
► Will not damage aluminum parts.
► Helps keep the proper engine temperature.
Notice: If an improper coolant mixture is used, the engine could overheat and be badly damaged.
The repair cost would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core, and other parts.
Notice: If extra inhibitors and/or additives are used in the vehicle's cooling system, the vehicle could be damaged.
Use only the proper mixture of the engine coolant listed in this manual for the cooling system.
See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants for more information.
Never dispose of engine coolant by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, or into sewers, streams, or bodies of water.
Have the coolant changed by an authorized service center, familiar with legal requirements regarding used coolant disposal. This will help protect the environment and your health.
Checking Coolant
The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking the coolant level.
Check to see if coolant is visible in the coolant recovery tank. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. If coolant is visible but the coolant level is not at or above the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant at the coolant recovery tank, but be sure the cooling system is cool before this is done. See Cooling System for more information.
The coolant recovery tank cap has this symbol on it.
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD line marked on the recovery tank.
When the engine is hot, the level could be higher than the FULL COLD line. If the coolant is below the FULL COLD line when the engine is hot, there could be a leak in the cooling system.
If the coolant is low, add the coolant or take the vehicle to a dealer for service.
How to Add Coolant to the Recovery Tank
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts.
Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.
Notice: This vehicle has a specific coolant fill procedure.
Failure to follow this procedure could cause the engine to overheat and be severely damaged.
If coolant is needed, add the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury.
Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the surge tank pressure cap—even a little—they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the surge tank pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and surge tank pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.
If coolant is needed, add the proper mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before this is done.
1. Detach the fasteners and lift off the panel that covers the radiator cap.
2. Remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.
Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise about one full turn.
If a hiss is heard, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left in the system.
3. Keep turning the pressure cap slowly and remove it.
4. Fill the radiator to the base of the filler neck with the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture.
5. Fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL COLD mark.
6. Reinstall the cap on the coolant recovery tank but leave the radiator pressure cap off.
7. Start the engine and let it run until the upper radiator hose feels warm. Any time during this procedure, watch out for the engine cooling fans.
8. If the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck is low, add more of the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level is back up to the base of the filler neck.
9. Replace the pressure cap.
Be sure to secure it tightly.
At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
Notice: If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.
Engine Overheating
The vehicle has several indicators to warn of engine overheating.
There is an engine coolant temperature gauge on the instrument panel cluster.
See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge .
The vehicle may also display an ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE and ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE message in the Driver Information Center (DIC). See Engine Cooling System Messages .
You may decide not to lift the hood when this warning appears, but instead get service help right away.
See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico) .
If you do decide to lift the hood, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.
Then check to see if the engine cooling fans are running. If the engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they are not, do not continue to run the engine and have the vehicle serviced.
Notice: Engine damage from running the engine without coolant is not covered by the warranty.
Notice: If the engine catches fire while driving with no coolant, the vehicle can be badly damaged.
The costly repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. See Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.
If Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment
Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood.
If you keep driving when the vehicles engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire.
You or others could be badly burned. Stop the engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.
See Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.
If No Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle:
► Climbs a long hill on a hot day . Stops after high-speed driving . Idles for long periods in traffic . Tows a trailer If the overheat warning is displayed with no sign of steam:
1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary.
3. If in a traffic jam, shift to N (Neutral); otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving—D (Drive) or L (Low).
If the temperature overheat gauge is no longer in the overheat zone or an overheat warning no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven.
Continue to drive the vehicle slow for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle distance from the car in front of you. If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally.
If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while parked. If the warning is still displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down. Also, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” next in this section.
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
This emergency operating mode lets the vehicle be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage.
In this mode, there is a significant loss in power and engine performance. The temperature gauge indicates an overheat condition exists. Driving extended distances and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided.
Notice: After driving in the overheated engine protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage, allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair.
The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant loss, change the oil and reset the oil life system.
See Engine Oil .
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid reservoir is located under the engine cover on the passenger side of the vehicle.
See Engine Compartment Overview for reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
To check the power steering fluid:
1. Turn the key off and let the engine compartment cool down.
2. Remove the engine cover.
See Engine Cover .
3. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
4. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
5. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
6. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
The fluid level should be somewhere between the MAX and MIN line on the dipstick in room temperature. If the fluid is on or below the MIN line, add fluid close to the MAX Line.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . Always use the proper fluid.
Notice: Use of the incorrect fluid may damage the vehicle and the damages may not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. Always use the correct fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .
Washer Fluid
What to Use
When adding windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before use. If the vehicle will be operating in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
When the windshield washer fluid reservoir is low, a WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID message will be displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC). See Washer Fluid Messages for more information.
Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See Engine Compartment Overview for reservoir location.
Notice . When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding water.
► Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid.
Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage the washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
Also, water does not clean as well as washer fluid.
► Fill the washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for fluid expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.
► Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint.
Brakes
This vehicle has disc brakes.
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed.
The sound can come and go or be heard all the time the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly.
The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash. When the brake wear warning sound is heard, have the vehicle serviced.
Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to torque specifications in Capacities and Specifications .
Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service might be required.
Brake Adjustment
Every time the brakes are applied, with or without the vehicle moving, the brakes adjust for wear.
Replacing Brake System Parts
The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. The vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality brake parts. When parts of the braking system are replaced, be sure to get new, approved replacement parts.
If this is not done, the brakes might not work properly. For example, installing disc brake pads that are wrong for the vehicle, can change the balance between the front and rear brakes — for the worse.
The braking performance expected can change in many other ways if the wrong replacement brake parts are installed.
Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap.
See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down:
► The brake fluid level goes down because of normal brake lining wear. When new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up.
► A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system can also cause a low fluid level. Have the brake hydraulic system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well.
Do not top off the brake fluid.
Adding fluid does not correct a leak. If fluid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough.
You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. See Brake System Warning Light .
What to Add
Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid from a sealed container.
See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants .
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well.
This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
Notice . Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake hydraulic system parts.
For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake hydraulic system can damage brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced.
Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.
► If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on the vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately.
Battery
Refer to the replacement number on the original battery label when a new battery is needed.
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
Vehicle Storage
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode.
You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See Jump Starting for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
Infrequent Usage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery to keep the battery from running down.
Extended Storage: Remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger.
All-Wheel Drive
It is not necessary to check the all–wheel drive lubricant levels.
► fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealer as soon as possible.
Starter Switch Check
When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake.
See Parking Brake .
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral).
If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact your dealer for service.
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check
When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake. See Parking Brake .
Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the ignition on, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of P (Park) with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of P (Park), contact your dealer for service.
Ignition Transmission Lock Check
While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position.
► The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park).
► The ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF.
Contact your dealer if service is required.
Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move.
You or others could be injured and property could be damaged.
Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.
► To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N (Neutral), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
► To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability:
With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.
Contact your dealer if service is required.
Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear or cracking.
See Maintenance Schedule for more information.
Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. To replace the wiper blade assembly:
1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the windshield.
2. Press the button in the middle of the wiper arm connector and pull the wiper blade away from the arm connector.
3. Install the new wiper blade and make sure the wiper blade locks into place.
For the proper size and type see Maintenance Replacement Parts .
Backglass Wiper Blade
To replace the backglass wiper blade:
1. Pull the wiper blade assembly away from the backglass.
The backglass wiper blade will not lock in a vertical position so care should be used when pulling it away from the vehicle.
2. Rotate the wiper blade assembly, hold the wiper arm in position, and push the blade away from the wiper arm.
3. Replace the wiper blade.
4. Return the wiper arm and blade assembly to the rest position on the glass.
Windshield Replacement
The vehicle is equipped with an acoustic windshield. If you ever have to have the windshield replaced be sure to get an acoustic windshield so you will continue to have the benefits an acoustic windshield can provide.
Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp aim has been preset at the factory and should need no further adjustment.
However, if your vehicle is damaged in a crash, the headlamp aim may be affected. Aim adjustment to the low-beam headlamps may be necessary if oncoming drivers flash their high-beam headlamps at you (for vertical aim).
If the headlamps need to be re-aimed, it is recommended that you take the vehicle to your dealer for service.
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