GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Maintenance Footnotes Gasoline Engine

This maintenance section applies to vehicles with a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see the maintenance schedule section in the DURAMAX® Diesel Engine Supplement.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air Resources Board has determined that the failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the completion of the vehicle's useful life. We, however, urge that all recommended maintenance services be performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded.

# Lubricate the front suspension, steering linkage, transmission shift linkage, and parking brake cable guides. Control arm ball joints require lubrication but should not be lubricated unless their temperature is 10°F (-12°C) or higher, or they could be damaged. Vehicles used under severe commercial operating conditions require lubrication on a regular basis every 3,000 miles (5 000 km).

(a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.

(b) Visually inspect front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect power steering lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Visually check constant velocity joints, rubber boots, and axle seals for leaks.

(c) Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace with genuine GM parts as needed. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap and cleaning the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is recommended at least once a year.

(d) Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace wiper blades that appear worn or damaged or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.

(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken airbag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.

(f) Lubricate all key lock cylinders, body door hinges, hood latch assembly, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, tailgate hinges, tailgate linkage, tailgate handle pivot points, latch bolt, fuel door hinge, locks, and folding seat hardware. More frequent lubrication may be required when exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.

(g) Check vent hose at transfer case for kinks and proper installation.

(h) Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the vehicle Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is over 8600 lbs or if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:

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In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.

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In hilly or mountainous terrain.

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When doing frequent trailer towing.

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Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.

(i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service can be complex; you should have your dealer perform this service. See Engine Coolant for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap.

(j) A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.

(k) Inspect system. Check all fuel and vapor lines and hoses for proper hook-up, routing, and condition. Check that the purge valve, if the vehicle has one, works properly.

(m) Change automatic transmission fluid and external transmission filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:

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In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.

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In hilly or mountainous terrain.

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When doing frequent trailer towing.

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Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery service.

(n) Vehicles with diesel engine or with GVWR above 10,000 lbs (4 536 kg) only: Inspect shields for damage or looseness. Adjust or replace as required. This is a Noise Emission Control Service. Applicable to vehicles sold in the United States and recommended for vehicles sold in Canada.

(p) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, inspect the filter or change indicator (if equipped) at each engine oil change.

(q) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.