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. Trained dealer technicians have
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 405
Fluids
and Care
Your vehicle is an important
investment and caring for it properly may help to avoid future costly
repairs. To maintain vehicle
performance, additional maintenance services may be required.
It is recommended that your dealer
perform these services — their trained
dealer technicians know your vehicle best. Your dealer can also perform a
thorough assessment with a
multi-point inspection to recommend when your vehicle may need
attention.
The following list is intended to
explain the services and conditions to look for that may indicate services are required.
Battery
The 12-volt battery supplies power to start the engine and operate any
additional electrical accessories.
. To avoid break-down or failure to start the vehicle, maintain a
battery with full cranking power.
the diagnostic equipment to test the battery and ensure that the
connections and cables are corrosion-free.
Belts
. Belts may need replacing if they squeak or show signs of cracking or splitting.
. Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment to inspect the belts and recommend adjustment or replacement when necessary.
Brakes
Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to safe driving.
. Signs of brake wear may include chirping, grinding, or squealing
noises, or difficulty stopping.
. Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment to
inspect the brakes and recommend quality parts engineered for the
vehicle.
Proper fluid levels and approved fluids protect the vehicle’s systems and
components. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 0 408 for GM approved fluids.
. Engine oil and windshield washer fluid levels should be checked at every fuel fill.
. Instrument cluster lights may
come on to indicate that fluids
may be low and need to be filled.
Hoses
Hoses transport fluids and should be regularly inspected to ensure that
there are no cracks or leaks. With a multi-point inspection, your dealer can inspect the hoses and advise if replacement is needed.
Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on the road.
. Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure to light, cracking, or damage. The
406 SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
brake lamps need to be checked periodically to ensure that they
light when braking.
. With a multi-point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps and note any concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in control for a smoother ride.
. Signs of wear may include steering wheel vibration, bounce/sway
while braking, longer stopping distance, or uneven tire wear.
. As part of the multi-point inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for signs of leaking, blown seals, or damage,
and can advise when service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated,
rotated, and balanced. Maintaining
the tires can save money and fuel, and can reduce the risk of tire failure.
. Signs that the tires need to be replaced include three or more
visible treadwear indicators; cord or fabric showing through the
rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread or sidewall; or a bulge or split in
the tire.
. Trained dealer technicians can
inspect and recommend the right tires. Your dealer can also provide tire/wheel balancing services to
ensure smooth vehicle operation
at all speeds. Your dealer sells and services name brand tires.
Vehicle Care
To help keep the vehicle looking like new, vehicle care products are
available from your dealer. For
information on how to clean and protect the vehicle’s interior and
exterior, see Interior Care 0 392 and
Exterior Care 0 388.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical for
ensuring that the tires deliver optimal wear and performance.
. Signs that the alignment may need to be adjusted include pulling,
improper vehicle handling, or unusual tire wear.
. Your dealer has the required
equipment to ensure proper wheel alignment.
Windshield
For safety, appearance, and the best viewing, keep the windshield clean
and clear.
. Signs of damage include scratches, cracks, and chips.
. Trained dealer technicians can inspect the windshield and
recommend proper replacement if needed.
Wiper Blades
Wiper blades need to be cleaned and kept in good condition to provide a
clear view.
. Signs of wear include streaking, skipping across the windshield, and worn or split rubber.
. Trained dealer technicians can
check the wiper blades and replace them when needed.
SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE 407