VEHICLE CARE 327CautionChrome wheels and other chrometrim may be damaged if the vehicleis not washed after driving on roadsthat have been sprayed withmagnesium, calcium, or sodiumchloride. These chlorides are usedon roads for conditions such as iceand dust. Always wash the chromewith soap and water after exposure.CautionTo avoid surface damage, do notuse strong soaps, chemicals,abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes,or cleaners that contain acid onaluminum or chrome-plated wheels.Use only approved cleaners. Also,never drive a vehicle withaluminum or chrome-plated wheelsthrough an automatic car wash thatuses silicone carbide tire cleaningbrushes. Damage could occur andthe repairs would not be covered bythe vehicle warranty.Brake SystemVisually inspect brake lines and hosesfor proper hook-up, binding, leaks,cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brakepads for wear and rotors for surfacecondition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or cracks. Inspect allother brake parts.Steering, Suspension, andChassis ComponentsVisually inspect steering, suspension,and chassis components for damaged,loose, or missing parts or signs ofwear at least once a year.Inspect power steering for properattachment, connections, binding,leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.Visually check constant velocity jointboots and axle seals for leaks.Body Component LubricationLubricate all key lock cylinders, hoodhinges, liftgate hinges, and the steelfuel door hinge, unless thecomponents are plastic. Applyingsilicone grease on weatherstrips with aclean cloth will make them lastlonger, seal better, and not stick orsqueak.Underbody MaintenanceAt least twice a year, spring and fall,use plain water to flush any corrosivematerials from the underbody. Takecare to thoroughly clean any areaswhere mud and other debris cancollect.Do not directly power wash thetransfer case and/or front/rear axleoutput seals. High pressure water canovercome the seals and contaminatethe fluid. Contaminated fluid willdecrease the life of the transfer caseand/or axles and should be replaced.Sheet Metal DamageIf the vehicle is damaged and requiressheet metal repair or replacement,make sure the body repair shopapplies anti-corrosion material toparts repaired or replaced to restorecorrosion protection.Original manufacturer replacementparts will provide the corrosionprotection while maintaining thevehicle warranty.
