GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year. A dealer's service department or qualified service center should perform theses inspections. All repairs should be completed at once.

Steering and Suspension Inspection

Inspect the front and the rear suspension for the following:

    • Damaged parts
    • Loose or missing parts
    • Signs of wear or lack of lubrication

Inspect the power steering lines and the hoses for the following:

    • Proper hookup
    • Binding
    • Leaks
    • Cracks
    • Chafing, etc.

Exhaust System Inspection

Inspect the complete exhaust system and the body near the exhaust system for the the following:

    • Broken parts
    • Damaged parts
    • Missing parts
    • Out-of-position parts
    • Open seams
    • Holes
    • Loose connections

Inspect for any other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into the vehicle.

Engine Cooling System Inspection

Inspect the hoses and replace if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated.

Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed.

Important: The radiator and A/C condenser should be kept clean for proper system performance. Cleaning is recommended at least once a year.

Inspect the front surface of the radiator and A/C condenser. Insects, leaves, debris, etc. can affect the performance of the radiator and A/C condenser.

If the front surface of either or both of these components is found to be in need of cleaning, the unwanted material can be removed by performing the following:

    • Ensure that the engine is off and cool.
    • Blow compressed air through the radiator from the rear surface of the radiator toward the front of the vehicle.
    • If compressed air is not available, use a water hose to force water through the radiator from the rear surface of the radiator toward the front of the vehicle.

To help ensure proper cooling system pressure performance, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.

If their is a loss of coolant, refer to Loss of Coolant in Engine Cooling.

Throttle System Inspection- Gasoline Engine

Throttle system (includes accelerator and cruise control) should operate freely without hesitation between full closed and wide open throttle.

Important: The accelerator and cruise control cables should not be lubricated under any condition. Throttle system components causing hesitation or sticking should be replaced. Inspect the following:

    • Missing parts such as retainers or clips.
    • Interference of the linkage or cable conduit to critical components such as fuel lines, brake lines, harness leads etc.
    • Proximity of the cable to the exhaust system and other heat sources: check for melting and/or discoloration.
    • Cable kinking. Avoid sharp bends of cables.
    • Clearance of the throttle system moving parts throughout their travel from other stationary components.
    • Damage of the components due to cable kinking, severe kinking, severe abrasion, misalignment, etc. If any of the above conditions exists, notify your dealer for a recommended rerouting, adjustment, or replacement.

Rear Axle Service

Check the gear lubricant level in the rear axle and add if needed. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Check the axle and repair it if needed.

Brake System Inspection

Inspect the complete system.

Notice: A low brake fluid level can indicate worn disc brake pads which may need to be serviced. Also, if the brake system warning light stays on or comes on, something may be wrong with the brake system. If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays on or comes on, something may be wrong with the anti-lock brake system.

Inspect the brake lines and the hoses for the following:

    • Proper hookup
    • Binding
    • Leaks
    • Cracks
    • Chafing, etc.

Inspect the disc brake pads for wear. Inspect the rotors for surface condition. Inspect other brake parts, including the calipers, the parking brake, etc.

The brakes may need to be inspected more often if driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.