Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
General Maintenance
Check the parts of the vehicle described below on a daily basis. Performing maintenance checks on the vehicle is the owner's responsibility. The owner may take the vehicle to a service center but it is recommended that the owner perform the checks.
In most cases, special tools are not required.
The procedures for general maintenance are as follows.
- GENERAL NOTES
- Maintenance requirements very depending on the country.
- Check the maintenance schedule in the owner's manual supplement.
- Following the maintenance schedule is mandatory.
- Determine the appropriate time to service the vehicle using either miles driven or time (months) elapsed, whichever reaches the specification first.
- Failing to check each vehicle part could lead to poor engine performance and increase exhaust emissions.
- Failing to check each vehicle part could lead to poor engine performance and increase exhaust emissions.
- TIRES
- Check the tire pressure with a gauge. Make adjustments if necessary.
- Check the surfaces of tires for cuts, damage or excessive wear.
- WHEEL NUTS
- Check for nuts that are loose or missing. Tighten them if necessary.
- TIRE ROTATION
Check the maintenance schedule in the owner's manual supplement.
- WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES
- Check the blades for wear or cracks when they are unable to wipe the windshield clean. Replace them if necessary.
- FLUID LEAKS
- Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel, oil, water and other fluids.NOTE: If you smell gasoline fumes or notice any leaks, locate the cause and correct it.
- Check under the vehicle for leaking fuel, oil, water and other fluids.
- DOORS AND ENGINE HOOD
- Check that all of the doors operate smoothly, and that all the latches lock securely.
- When the primary latch is released, check that the engine hood secondary latch prevents the hood from opening.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
No obligation. See pricing before you book.
