Maintenance procedures
The pages that follow contain the maintenance service recommended by the engineers who designed your ve- hicle. Besides the maintenance items for which there are fixed maintenance intervals, there are other items that should operate satisfactorily without periodic maintenance. However, if a malfunction of these items does occur, it could adversely affect the engine or vehicle performance. These items should be inspected if a malfunction is observed or suspected.
Engine Oil Checking Oil Level
To assure proper engine lubrication, the engine oil must be maintained at the correct level. Check the oil level at regular intervals, such as every fuel stop.
You can check the oil level using the procedure described in Checking Engine Oil Level in the Understanding Your Instrument Panel section, or by checking the engine oil dipstick. The best time to check the engine oil level is about five minutes after a fully warmed engine is shut off, or before starting the engine after it has sat overnight.
Checking the oil while the vehicle is on level ground will improve the accuracy of the oil level readings. Maintain the oil level between the MIN and MAX markings on the dipstick. Adding 1 qt (1 L) of oil when the reading is at the MIN mark will result in a MAX reading on this engine.
Change Engine Oil
The oil change interval for yourvehicle is initially set at 7,000 mi (Canada: 11 000 km). The Flexible Service System (FSS) in your vehicle evalu- ates engine temperature, oil level, vehicle speed, engine speed, distance driven, and the time elapsed since your last service. It determines when your vehicle needs maintenance service and alerts you in advance. The next necessary service is indicated by the FSS in your instru- ment cluster.
NOTE: Also see the FSS system details in the Under- standing Your Instrument Panel section of this manual. Very light duty driving cycles (most trips more than 10 mi [16 km]) at moderate speeds in moderate temperature conditions) can extend the service interval beyond 7,000 mi (Canada: 11 000 km).
If ANY of the following apply to your driving, the oil change interval can be reduced significantly: • Day and night temperatures are below 32°F (0°C) • Stop-and-go driving • Extensive engine idling • Driving in dusty conditions • Short trips of less than 10 mi (16 km) • More than 50% of your driving is at sustained high
speeds during hot weather, above 90°F (32°C) • Taxi, Police, or delivery service (commercial service) Observe the oil change interval indicated by your FSS system. This system will monitor the driving conditions seen by your vehicle, and will recommend the best interval for servicing your vehicle to maintain it in top condition.
266 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
CAUTION! Overfilling or underfilling the crankcase will cause oil aeration or loss of oil pressure. This could damage your engine.
Engine Oil Selection
For best performance and maximum protection under all types of operating conditions, only use synthetic engine oils, approved to MB 229.3 or MB 229.5, such as Mobil 1 SAE 0W-40. The FSS may not alert for an oil change at the proper interval if an unapproved engine oil is used; engine damage and reduced engine life may result.
Materials Added To Engine Oils
Do not add materials (other than leak detection dyes) to engine oil. Engine oil is an engineered product and its performance may be impaired by supplemental addi- tives.
Disposing of Used Engine Oil
Care should be taken in disposing of used engine oil from your vehicle. Used oil, indiscriminately discarded, can present a problem to the environment. Contact your dealer, service station, or governmental agency for advice on how and where used oil can be safely discarded in your area.
Engine Oil Filter
The engine oil filter should be replaced at every engine oil change.
Engine Oil Filter Selection
All DaimlerChrysler Corporation engines have a full- flow type disposable oil filter. Use a filter of this type for replacement. The quality of replacement filters varies considerably. Only high quality filters should be used to assure most efficient service. Mopart Engine Oil Filters are high quality oil filters and are recommended.
Drive Belts - Check Condition and Tension
At the distance shown in the maintenance schedules, check all drive belts for condition and proper tension. Improper belt tension can cause belt slippage and failure. Inspect the drive belts for evidence of cuts, cracks, or glazing and replace them if there is any sign of damage which could result in belt failure. If adjustment is re- quired, adjust the belts according to the specifications and procedures shown in the Service Manual. Special tools are required to properly measure tension and to restore belt tension to factory specifications. Also, check belt routing to make sure there is no interference between the belts and other engine components.
Spark Plugs
Spark plugs must fire properly to assure engine perfor- mance and emission control. New spark plugs should be installed at the distance specified in the appropriate maintenance chart. The entire set should be replaced if
268 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
there is any malfunction due to a faulty spark plug. Check the specifications section for the proper type of spark plug for use in your vehicle.
Engine Air Cleaner Filter
Under normal driving conditions, replace the air filter at each interval called out by FSS.
WARNING! The air cleaner can provide a measure of protection in the case of engine backfire. Do not remove the air cleaner unless such removal is necessary for repair or maintenance. Make sure that no one is near the engine compartment before starting the vehicle with the air cleaner removed. Failure to do so can result in serious personal injury.
Engine Fuel Filter
A plugged fuel filter can cause hard starting or limit the speed at which a vehicle can be driven. Should an excessive amount of dirt accumulate in the fuel tank, frequent fuel filter replacement may be necessary. See your authorized dealer for service.
Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter requires the use of unleaded fuel only. Leaded gasoline will destroy the effectiveness of the catalyst as an emission control device. Under normal operating conditions, the catalytic con- verter will not require maintenance. However, it is im- portant to keep the engine properly serviced to assure proper catalyst operation and prevent possible catalyst damage. If the CHECK ENGINE light is flashing, immediate service is required.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 269
7
CAUTION! Damage to the catalytic converter can result if your vehicle is not kept in proper operating condition. In the event of engine malfunction, particularly involv- ing engine misfire or other apparent loss of perfor- mance, have your vehicle serviced promptly. Contin- ued operation of your vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause the converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to the converter and the vehicle.
WARNING! A hot exhaust system can start a fire if you park over materials that can burn. Such materials might be grass or leaves coming into contact with your exhaust system. Do not park or operate your vehicle in areas where your exhaust system can contact anything that can burn.
In unusual situations involving grossly malfunctioning engine operation, a scorching odor may suggest severe and abnormal catalyst overheating. If this occurs, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine and allow it to cool. Service, including a tune up to DaimlerChrysler Corpo- ration’s specifications, should be obtained immediately.
270 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
To minimize the possibility of catalyst damage: • Do not shut off the engine or interrupt the ignition
when the transmission is in gear and the vehicle is in motion.
• Do not try to start the engine by pushing or towing the vehicle.
• Do not idle the engine with any spark plug wires disconnected for a prolonged period.
Ignition Wiring System
The ignition cables should be kept clean and properly connected. Terminals should be fully seated. Cracked, damaged, or faulty cables should be replaced.
Crankcase Emission Control System
Proper operation of this system depends on freedom from sticking or plugging due to deposits. Check the ventilation hose for indication of damage or plugging deposits. Replace if necessary.
Maintenance-Free Battery
The top of the maintenance-free battery is permanently sealed. You will never have to add water, nor is periodic maintenance required.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 271
7
WARNING! Battery posts, terminals and related accessories con- tain lead and lead compounds. Wash hands after handling. Battery fluid is a corrosive acid solution and can burn or even blind you. Don’t allow battery fluid to contact your eyes, skin or clothing. Don’t lean over a battery when attaching clamps. If acid splashes in eyes or on skin, flush the area immediately with large amounts of water. Battery gas is flammable and explosive. Keep flame or sparks away from the battery. Don’t use a booster battery or any other booster source with an output greater than 12 volts. Don’t allow cable clamps to touch each other.
CAUTION! It is essential when replacing the cables on the battery that the positive cable is attached to the positive post and the negative cable is attached to the negative post. Battery posts are marked positive (+) and negative (-) and identified on the battery case. Cable clamps should be tight on the terminal posts and free of corrosion. Apply grease to posts and clamps after tightening. If a “fast charger” is used while the battery is in the vehicle, disconnect both vehicle battery cables before connecting the charger to battery. Do not use a “fast charger” to provide starting voltage as battery dam- age can result.
272 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Air Conditioner
Check the air conditioning system at the start of the warm weather season.
NOTE: If your air conditioning performance seems lower than expected, check the front of the A/C con- denser for an accumulation of dirt or insects. Clean with a gentle water spray from behind the radiator and through the condenser as required. Fabric front fascia protectors may reduce air flow to the condenser, reducing air conditioning performance.
WARNING! The air conditioning system contains refrigerant un- der high pressure. To avoid risk of personal injury or damage to the system, adding refrigerant or any repair requiring lines to be disconnected should be done by an experienced repair person.
Refrigerant Recovery And Recycling
The air conditioning system of your vehicle contains R-134a, a refrigerant that does not deplete the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere. The DaimlerChrysler Corporation recommends that air conditioning service be done by facilities using refrigerant recycling and recovery equipment that meets SAE standard J1991.
Power Steering Fluid
No power steering fluid service is required. The system is filled at the factory with Pentosin CHF 11S. Steering noise and reduced component life may result if an unapproved fluid is used.
During scheduled maintenance, check the power steering fluid level at the power steering fluid reservoir. Nor- mally, it will not be necessary to add power steering fluid. Before removing the reservoir cap, wipe the outside of the cap and reservoir so that no dirt can fall into the reservoir. The power steering pump has a dipstick. Fluid level should be maintained at the proper level indicated on the dipstick. If the indicated level of power steering fluid is low, see your authorized dealer. With a clean cloth, wipe any spilled fluid from all surfaces.
Chassis Lubrication Front Suspension Ball Joints
There are two front suspension lower ball joints that are permanently lubricated. Inspect these ball joints when- ever under-vehicle service is done.
Steering Linkage
Inspect tie rod ends whenever the vehicle is serviced. They are permanently lubricated and do not require periodic lubrication.
Drive Shaft Universal Joints
Your vehicle has four constant velocity universal joints. Periodic lubrication of these joints is not required. How- ever, the joint boots should be inspected for external leakage or damage when other maintenance is per- formed. If leakage or damage is evident, replace the universal joint boot and grease immediately. Continued operation could result in failure of the univer- sal joint due to water and dirt contamination of the grease. This would require complete replacement of the joint assembly.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 275
7
Body Lubrication
Locks and all body pivot points, including such items as seat tracks, doors, and rear liftgate/decklid hinges, should be lubricated periodically to assure quiet, easy operation and to protect against rust and wear.
Hood Latch
When performing other under hood services, the hood latch release mechanism and safety catch should be inspected, cleaned, and lubricated. It is important to maintain proper lubrication to insure that the hood mechanisms work properly and safely. Multi-Purpose Lubricant, NLGI Grade 2, should be ap- plied sparingly to all pivot and sliding contact areas.
Driver’s Door Lock Cylinder
The driver’s door lock cylinder should be lubricated twice a year, preferably in the fall and spring. Apply a
small amount of a high quality lubricant, such as Mopart Lock Cylinder Lubricant directly into the lock cylinder (avoid excess lubricant). Insert the key into the lock cylinder and rotate from the unlocked to the locked position without adding more lubricant. Repeat this procedure three or four times. Wipe all the lubricant off the key with a clean cloth, to avoid soiling clothing.
Windshield Wiper Blades
Clean the rubber edges of the wiper blades and the windshield periodically with a sponge or soft cloth and a mild non-abrasive cleaner, or use the washer solvent. This will remove accumulations of salt or road film and help reduce streaking, chatter, and smearing. Operation of the wipers on dry glass for long periods may cause deterioration of the wiper blades. Always use washer fluid when using the wipers to remove salt or dirt from a dry windshield. Avoid using the wiper blades to remove frost or ice from the windshield. Make sure that they are not frozen to the glass before turning them on to avoid damaging the blade. Keep the blade rubber out of contact with petroleum products such as engine oil, gasoline, etc.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
1. Lift the wiper arm away from the glass. 2. Rotate the blade 45 degrees to gain access to the release tab. 3. Push the release tab as shown in the illustration and slide the wiper blade assembly down along the arm. Gently place the wiper arm on the windshield.
4. Install the new blade assembly onto the wiper arm tip until it locks in place.
Windshield Washer Reservoir
The washer fluid reservoir is located in the engine compartment and should be checked for fluid level at regular intervals. Fill the reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radiator antifreeze) rated not to freeze at -25°F (-31°C). Operate the system for a few seconds to flush out the residual water.
WARNING! Do not overfill the washer reservoir. Do not attempt to fill to the top of the filler neck. Fluid may leak out onto the floor or driveway causing a potential slip and fall hazard. When the indicator light first illumi- nates, the maximum fill amount is 1 gal (4 L).
WARNING! Commercially available windshield washer solvents are flammable. They could ignite and burn you. Care must be exercised when filling or working around the washer solution.
278 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Exhaust System
The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust system. If you notice a change in the sound of the exhaust system, or if exhaust fumes can be detected inside the vehicle, or when the underside or rear of the vehicle is damaged, have a competent technician inspect the complete ex- haust system and adjacent body areas for broken, dam- aged, deteriorated, or mispositioned parts. Open seams or loose connections could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust system each time the vehicle is raised for lubri- cation or oil change. Replace as required.
WARNING! Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon monoxide which is colorless and odorless. Breathing it can make you unconscious and can eventually poison you. Follow the above precautions to keep your exhaust system as safe as possible.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 279
7
Cooling System
WARNING!
• When working near the radiator cooling fan, dis-
connect the fan motor lead or turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. The fan is temperature controlled and can start at any time the ignition key is in the ON position.
• You or others can be badly burned by hot coolant or steam from your radiator. If you see or hear steam coming from under the hood, don’t open the hood until the radiator has had time to cool. Never try to open a cooling system pressure cap when the radiator is hot.
Coolant Checks
Check coolant protection every 12 months (before the onset of freezing weather, where applicable). If the cool- ant is dirty or rusty in appearance, the system should be drained, flushed and refilled with fresh coolant. Check the front of the radiator and condenser for an accumulation of bugs, leaves, etc. Clean the radiator and condenser by gently spraying water from a garden hose at the back of the radiator core. Check the recovery bottle tank tubing for condition and tightness of connection at the bottle and radiator. Inspect the entire system for leaks.
Cooling System - Drain, Flush and Refill
At the intervals shown on the Maintenance Schedules, the system should be drained, flushed and refilled. If the solution is dirty and contains a considerable amount of sediment, clean and flush with a reliable cooling system cleaner. Follow with a thorough rinsing to remove all deposits and chemicals.
Engine Coolant Disposal
Used ethylene glycol based engine coolant is a regulated substance requiring proper disposal. Check with your local authorities to determine the disposal rules for your community. Do not store ethylene glycol based engine coolant in open containers or allow it to remain in puddles on the ground. Prevent ingestion by animals or children. If ingested by a child, contact a physician immediately.
Selection Of Coolant
Use only coolant approved to MB 325.0, such as Valvoline GO5, or an equivalent extended life coolant. Refer to the recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts for correct coolant type.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 281
7
CAUTION! Failure to use the proper antifreeze could cause radiator plugging and engine overheating. Do not mix antifreeze brands or types. Do not use plain water alone or alcohol base antifreeze products. Do not use additional rust inhibitors or antirust prod- ucts, as they may not be compatible with the radiator coolant and may plug the radiator.
Adding Coolant
When adding coolant, a minimum solution of 50% eth- ylene glycol antifreeze coolant and water should be used. Use higher concentrations (not to exceed 70%) if tempera- tures below -34°F (-37°C) are anticipated. Use only high purity water, such as distilled or deionized water when mixing the water/antifreeze solution. The
use of lower quality water will reduce the amount of corrosion protection in the engine cooling system.
NOTE: Mixing coolant types other than Mopart prod- ucts will decrease the life of the engine coolant and will require more frequent coolant changes. Please note that it is the owner’s responsibility to main- tain the proper level of protection against freezing, according to the temperatures occurring in the area where the vehicle is operated.
Cooling System Pressure Cap
The cap must be fully tightened to prevent loss of coolant, and to ensure that coolant will return to the radiator from the coolant reserve tank. The cap should be inspected and cleaned if there is any accumulation of foreign material on the sealing surfaces.
282 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
WARNING! The warning words “DO NOT OPEN WHEN HOT” near the cooling system reservoir cap are a safety precaution. Never add coolant when the engine is overheated. Do not loosen or remove the cap to cool an overheated engine. Heat causes pressure to build up in the cooling system. To prevent scalding or injury, do not remove the pressure cap while the system is hot or under pressure.
WARNING! Do not use a pressure cap other than the one speci- fied for your vehicle. Personal injury or engine damage may result.
Points to Remember NOTE: When the vehicle is stopped after a few miles/ kilometers of operation, you may observe vapor coming from the front of the engine compartment. This is nor- mally a result of moisture from rain, snow, or high humidity accumulation on the radiator and being vapor- ized when the thermostat opens, allowing hot water to enter the radiator. If an examination of your engine compartment shows no evidence of radiator or hose leaks, the vehicle may be safely driven. The vapor will soon dissipate. • Do not overfill the coolant bottle. • Check coolant freeze point in the system. • If frequent coolant additions are required, or if the
level in the recovery bottle does not drop when the engine cools, the cooling system should be pressure tested for leaks.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 283
7
• Maintain a coolant concentration of a minimum of 50% ethylene glycol Extended Life Coolant and high qual- ity water with recommended antifreeze for proper corrosion protection of your engine cooling system that contains aluminum components.
• Make sure that the radiator and coolant bottle hoses are not kinked or obstructed.
• Keep the front of the radiator clean. If your vehicle has air conditioning, keep the front of the condenser clean, also.
• Do not change the thermostat for Summer or Winter operation. If replacement is ever necessary, install ONLY the correct type thermostat. Other designs may result in unsatisfactory coolant performance, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions.
Hoses And Vacuum/Vapor Harnesses
Inspect surfaces of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence of heat and mechanical damage. Hard or soft spots, brittle rubber, cracking, checking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive swelling indicate deterioration of the rub- ber. Pay particular attention to the hoses nearest to high heat sources such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect hose rout- ing to be sure hoses do not touch any heat source or moving component that may cause heat damage or mechanical wear. Ensure the nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or collapsed. Inspect all hose connections such as clamps and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaks are present. Components should be replaced immedi- ately if there is any evidence of degradation that could cause failure.
284 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Brakes
In order to assure brake system performance, all brake system components should be inspected periodically. Suggested service intervals can be found in the Mainte- nance section.
WARNING! Riding the brakes can lead to brake failure and possibly an accident. Driving with your foot resting or riding on the brake pedal can result in abnormally high brake temperatures, excessive lining wear, and possible brake damage. You wouldn’t have your full braking capacity in an emergency.
Brake and Power Steering System Hoses
When servicing the vehicle for scheduled maintenance, inspect surface of hoses and nylon tubing for evidence of heat and mechanical damage. Hard and brittle rubber,
cracking, checking, tears, cuts, abrasions, and excessive swelling suggest deterioration of the rubber. Particular attention should be made to examining those hose sur- faces nearest to high heat sources, such as the exhaust manifold. Inspect all hose clamps and couplings to make sure they are secure and no leaks are present. Ensure the nylon tubing in these areas has not melted or collapsed.
NOTE: Often, fluids such as oil, power steering fluid, and brake fluid are used during assembly plant opera- tions to ease the assembly of hoses to couplings. There- fore, oil wetness at the hose-coupling area is not neces- sarily an indication of leakage. Actual dripping of hot fluid when systems are under pressure (during vehicle operation) should be noted before a hose is replaced based on leakage.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 285
7
NOTE: Inspection of brake hoses should be done when- ever the brake system is serviced and at every engine oil change.
WARNING! Worn brake hoses can burst and cause brake failure. You could have an accident. If you see any signs of cracking, scuffing, or worn spots, have the brake hoses replaced immediately.
Brake Master Cylinder
The fluid level in the master cylinder should be checked when performing under hood services, or immediately if the brake system warning light is on.
Be sure to clean the top of the master cylinder area before removing the cap. If necessary, add fluid to bring the fluid level up to the requirements described on the brake fluid reservoir. Fluid level can be expected to fall as the brake pads wear. Brake fluid level should be checked when pads are replaced. However, low fluid level may be caused by a leak and a checkup may be needed.
Use brake fluid approved to MB 331.0, or a DOT 4 brake fluid with: minimum dry boiling point (ERBP) 500°F, minimum wet boiling point (WERBP) 356°F, maximum viscosity 1500 mm 2/s, conforming to FMVSS 116 and ISO 4925.
WARNING! Use of a brake fluid that may have a lower initial boiling point or unidentified as to specification, may result in sudden brake failure during hard prolonged braking. You could have an accident.
WARNING! Use only brake fluid that has been in a tightly closed container to avoid contamination from foreign mat- ter. Use of contaminated fluid may result in reduced brake performance or a sudden brake failure. You could have an accident.
CAUTION! Do not allow petroleum-based fluid to contaminate the brake fluid as seal damage will result!
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 287
7
Automatic Transmission
The fluid in the automatic transmission should be changed at 80,000 mi (129 000 km), along with the transmission fluid filter. After that, the transmission fluid is filled for life.
Selection of Lubricant
It is important that the proper lubricant is used in the transmission to assure optimum transmission perfor- mance. Use only ATF approved to MB 236.10, MB 236.12. Synthetic Dexron IIIt Automatic Transmission Fluid may be substituted. Refer to the Recommended Fluids, Lubri- cants and Genuine Parts section for the correct fluid type. It is important that the transmission fluid be maintained at the prescribed level using the recommended fluid.
CAUTION! Using a transmission fluid other than the fluid rec- ommended by DaimlerChrysler Corporation may cause deterioration in transmission shift quality and/or torque converter shudder. Using a transmis- sion fluid other than that recommended by the DaimlerChrysler Corporation will result in more frequent fluid and filter changes. Refer to the Rec- ommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts section for correct fluid type.
Fluid Level Check
Regular automatic transmission fluid level checks and changes are not required. For this reason the dipstick is omitted. If you notice fluid loss or gear shift malfunction, have your authorized dealer check the transmission fluid level.
288 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
Fluid and Filter Changes
Automatic transmission fluid and filter should be changed at 80,000 mi (129 000 km). The fluid is then filled for life.
NOTE: Refer to Section 8 of this manual for Mainte- nance Schedules.
Manual Transmission Selection of Lubricant
No fluid service is required. Use only fluid approved to MB 236.2. SAE 5W-20 engine oil, meeting API SL or GF-3, may be substituted. Refer to the Recommended Fluids, Lubricants and Genuine Parts section for the correct fluid type.
Fluid Level Check
Check the fluid level by removing the fill plug. The fluid level should be between the bottom of the fill hole and a point not more than 3/16 in (4.76 mm) below the bottom of the hole.
CAUTION! Do not overfill. Dirt and water in the transmission can cause serious damage. To prevent dirt and water from entering the transmission after checking or replenishing fluid, make certain that the dipstick cap is seated properly.
Add fluid, if necessary, to maintain the proper level.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 289
7
Frequency of Fluid Change
Under normal operation conditions, the fluid installed at the factory will give satisfactory lubrication for the life of the vehicle. Fluid changes are not necessary unless the lubricant has become contaminated with water. If con- taminated with water, the fluid should be changed im- mediately.
Special Additives
Do not add any fluid additives to the transmission. The only exception to this policy is the use of special dyes to aid in detecting fluid leaks. The use of transmission sealers should be avoided as this may adversely affect seals.
Appearance Care and Protection from Corrosion Protection of Body and Paint from Corrosion
Vehicle body protection requirements vary according to geographic locations and usage. Chemicals that make roads passable in snow and ice, and those that are
sprayed on trees and road surfaces during other seasons, are highly corrosive to the metal in your vehicle. Outside parking, which exposes your vehicle to airborne contami- nants, road surfaces on which the vehicle is operated, extreme hot or cold weather and other extreme condi- tions will have an adverse effect on paint, metal trim, and underbody protection. The following maintenance recommendations will enable you to obtain maximum benefit from the corrosion resistance built into your vehicle.
What Causes Corrosion?
Corrosion is the result of deterioration or removal of paint and protective coatings from your vehicle. The most common causes are: • Road salt, dirt and moisture accumulation. • Stone and gravel impact.
290 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
• Insects, tree sap and tar. • Salt in the air near seacoast localities. • Atmospheric fallout/industrial pollutants. • Bird droppings.
Washing
• Wash your vehicle regularly. Always wash your ve-
hicle in the shade using a mild car wash soap, and rinse the panels completely with clear water.
• If insects, tar or other similar deposits have accumu- lated on your vehicle, wash it as soon as possible.
• Use Mopart auto polish to remove road film and stains and to polish your vehicle. Take care never to scratch the paint.
• Avoid using abrasive compounds and power buffing that may diminish the gloss or thin out the paint finish.
CAUTION! Do not use abrasive or strong cleaning materials such as steel wool or scouring powder, which will scratch metal and painted surfaces.
Special Care
• If you drive on salted or dusty roads or if you drive
near the ocean, hose off the undercarriage at least once a month.
• It is important that the drain holes in the lower edges of the doors, rocker panels and rear liftgate/decklid be kept clear and open.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 291
7
• If you detect any stone chips or scratches in the paint, touch them up immediately. The cost of such repairs is considered the responsibility of the owner.
• Use Mopart touch-up paint on scratches or chips as soon as possible. Your dealer has touch-up paint to match the color of your vehicle.
• If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident or similar cause which destroys the paint and protective coating, have your vehicle repaired as soon as pos- sible. The cost of such repairs is considered the respon- sibility of the owner.
• If you carry special cargo such as chemicals, fertilizers, deicer salt, etc., be sure that such materials are well packaged and sealed.
• Aluminum wheels should be cleaned regularly with mild soap and water to prevent corrosion. To remove heavy soil, select a non-abrasive, non-acidic cleaner.
Do not use scouring pads or metal polishes. Avoid automatic car washes that use acidic solutions or harsh brushes that may damage the wheels’ protective fin- ish.
Wheel And Wheel Trim Care
All wheels and wheel trim, especially Aluminum, should be cleaned regularly, using mild soap and water to maintain their luster and to prevent corrosion. Wash them with the same soap solution as the body of your vehicle. Rinse the wheels thoroughly. When cleaning extremely dirty wheels, care must be taken in the selection of tire and wheel cleaning chemi- cals and equipment to prevent damage to the wheels. Only Mopart Wheel Cleaners are recommended. Any of the “DO NOT USE” items listed below can damage wheels and wheel trim.
292 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
DO NOT USE: • Any abrasive cleaner • Any abrasive cleaning pad (such as steel wool) or
abrasive brush • Any cleaner that contains an acid which can react with
and discolor the chrome surface • Oven cleaner • A car wash that uses carbide-tipped wheel cleaning
brushes or acidic solutions.
CAUTION! Many wheel cleaners contain acids that may harm the wheel surface.
Interior Care
Use Mopart Fabric Cleaner to clean fabric upholstery and carpeting. Use Mopart Vinyl Cleaner to clean vinyl upholstery. Mopart Vinyl Cleaner is specifically recommended for vinyl trim.
Leather Seat Care and Cleaning
Leather is best preserved by regular cleaning with a damp soft cloth. Small particles of dirt can act as an abrasive and damage the leather surface and should be removed immediately with a damp cloth. Stubborn soils can be removed easily with a soft cloth and Mopart Total Clean. Care should be taken to avoid soaking your leather upholstery with any liquid. Please do not use polishes, oils, cleaning fluids, solvents, detergents, or ammonia based cleaners to clean your leather upholstery. Application of a leather conditioner is not required to maintain the original condition.
MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE 293
7
CAUTION! The use of vinyl, leather or plastic protectants may cause excessive gloss and/or discoloration of interior trim parts.
WARNING! Do not use volatile solvents for cleaning purposes. Many are potentially flammable, and if used in closed areas they may cause respiratory harm.
Cleaning Headlights
Your vehicle has plastic headlights that are lighter and less susceptible to stone breakage than glass headlights. Plastic is not as scratch resistant as glass and therefore different lens cleaning procedures must be followed.
To minimize the possibility of scratching the lenses and reducing light output, avoid wiping with a dry cloth. To remove road dirt, wash with a mild soap solution fol- lowed by rinsing. Do not use abrasive cleaning components, solvents, steel wool or other aggressive material to clean the lenses.
Glass Surfaces
All glass surfaces should be cleaned on a regular basis with any commercial household-type glass cleaner. Never use an abrasive-type cleaner. Use caution when cleaning inside rear windows equipped with electric defrosters. Do not use scrapers or other sharp instru- ments which may scratch the elements.
Instrument Panel Cover
The instrument panel cover has a low glare surface which minimizes reflections in the windshield. Do not use
294 MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE
protectants or other products which may cause undesir- able reflections. Use soap and warm water to restore the low glare surface.
Cleaning Plastic Instrument Cluster Lenses
The lenses in front of the instruments in the vehicle are molded in clear plastic. When cleaning the lenses, care must be taken to avoid scratching the plastic. • Clean with a wet soft rag. A mild soap solution may be
used, but do not use high alcohol content or abrasive cleaners. If soap is used, wipe clean with a clean damp rag.
• Dry with a soft cloth.
Seat Belt Maintenance
Do not bleach, dye or clean the seat belts with chemical solvents or abrasive cleaners. This will weaken the fabric.
If the seat belts need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or lukewarm water. Do not remove the seat belts from the vehicle to wash them. Replace the seat belts if they appear frayed or worn or if the buckles do not work properly.
Download Manual