Buick LaCrosse: Vehicle Checks

Buick LaCrosse: Vehicle Checks

• Doing Your Own Service Work
• Hood
• Engine Compartment Overview
• Engine Oil
• Engine Oil Life System
• Automatic Transmission Fluid
• Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
• Cooling System
• Engine Coolant
• Engine Overheating
• Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
• Power Steering Fluid (2.4L L4 Engine)
• Power Steering Fluid (3.6L V6 Engine)
• Washer Fluid
• Brakes
• Brake Fluid
• Battery
• Starter Switch Check
• Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check
• Ignition Transmission Lock Check
• Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check
• Wiper Blade Replacement

Doing Your Own Service Work

eAssist Vehicles Only

WARNING!
Never try to do your own service on eAssist components. You can be injured and the vehicle can be damaged if you try to do your own service work. Service and repair of these eAssist components should only be performed by a trained service technician with the proper knowledge and tools.

All Vehicles

WARNING!
You can be injured and the vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.
• Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before attempting any vehicle maintenance task.
• Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. Metric and English fasteners can be easily confused. If the wrong fasteners are used, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.

If doing some of your own service work, use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service the vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information.

This vehicle has an airbag system.

Before attempting to do your own service work, see Airbag System Check.

Keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work performed. See Maintenance Records.

Hood

To open the hood:

1. Pull the interior hood release handle located to the left of the steering column below the instrument panel.

2. Go to the front of the vehicle and push the secondary hood release handle toward the driver side of the vehicle.

3. Lift the hood.

To close the hood:

1. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly.

2. Lower the hood 30 cm (12 in) above the vehicle and release it so it fully latches. Check to make sure the hood is closed and repeat the process if necessary.

Engine Compartment Overview

2.4L L4 Engine

A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter.

B. Engine Cover.

C. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View). See Cooling System.

D. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine Oil.

E. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View). See Engine Oil.

F. High Voltage Cable (Orange Color).

G. Transmission Fluid Cap. See Automatic Transmission Fluid.

H. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See Brakes.

I. Battery (Under Cover). See Battery.

J. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant.

K. Engine Compartment Fuse Block.

L. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Washer Fluid.

3.6L V6 Engine

A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter.

B. Power Steering Reservoir and Cap. See Power Steering Fluid (2.4L L4 Engine) or Power Steering Fluid (3.6L V6 Engine).

C. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine Oil.

D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine Oil.

E. Engine Cover.

F. Transmission Fluid Cap and Dipstick. See Automatic Transmission Fluid.

G. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See Brakes.

H. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap. See Engine Coolant.

I. Battery Cover. See Battery.

J. Engine Compartment Fuse Block.

K. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Washer Fluid.

Engine Oil

To ensure proper engine performance and long life, careful attention must be paid to engine oil.

Following these simple, but important steps will help protect your investment:

• Always use engine oil approved to the proper specification and of the proper viscosity grade. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section.

• Check the engine oil level regularly and maintain the proper oil level. See “Checking Engine Oil” and “When to Add Engine Oil” in this section.

• Change the engine oil at the appropriate time. See Engine Oil Life System.

• Always dispose of engine oil properly. See “What to Do with Used Oil” in this section.

Checking Engine Oil

It is a good idea to check the engine oil level at each fuel fill. In order to get an accurate reading, the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine oil dipstick.

Obtaining an accurate oil level reading is essential:

1. If the engine has been running recently, turn off the engine and allow several minutes for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

Checking the oil level too soon after engine shutoff will not provide an accurate oil level reading.

2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way.

Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.

When to Add Engine Oil

When to Add Engine Oil

If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil and then recheck the level. See “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in this section for an explanation of what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Specifications.

Notice:
Do not add too much oil.

Oil levels above or below the acceptable operating range shown on the dipstick are harmful to the engine. If you find that you have an oil level above the operating range, i.e., the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. You should drain out the excess oil or limit driving of the vehicle and seek a service professional to remove the excess amount of oil.

See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine oil fill cap.

Add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when through.

Selecting the Right Engine Oil

Selecting the right engine oil depends on both the proper oil specification and viscosity grade.

See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.

Specification

Use and ask for licensed engine oils with the dexos1™ approved certification mark. Engine oils meeting the requirements for the vehicle should have the dexos1 approved certification mark. This certification mark indicates that the oil has been approved to the dexos1 specification.

Notice:
Failure to use the recommended engine oil or equivalent can result in engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty. Check with your dealer or service provider on whether the oil is approved to the dexos1 specification.

Viscosity Grade

SAE 5W-30 is the best viscosity grade for the vehicle. Do not use other viscosity grade oils such as SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, or 20W-50.

If in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), an SAE 0W-30 oil should be used. An oil of this viscosity grade will provide easier cold starting for the engine at extremely low temperatures. When selecting an oil of the appropriate viscosity grade, always select an oil that meets the dexos1 specification or equivalent. See “Specification” for more information.

Engine Oil Additives/Engine Oil Flushes

Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the dexos specification and displaying the dexos certification mark are all that is needed for good performance and engine protection.

Engine oil system flushes are not recommended and could cause engine damage not covered by the vehicle warranty.

What to Do with Used Oil

Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer's warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.

Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash or pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil.

Engine Oil Life System

When to Change Engine Oil

This vehicle has a computer system that indicates when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on a combination of factors which include engine revolutions, engine temperature, and miles driven.

Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change is indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, the system must be reset every time the oil is changed.

When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it indicates that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on. See Engine Oil Messages.

Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 1 000 km (600 mi).

It is possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the oil life system might indicate that an oil change is not necessary for up to a year. The engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and, at this time, the system must be reset. Your dealer has trained service people who will perform this work and reset the system. It is also important to check the oil regularly over the course of an oil drain interval and keep it at the proper level.

If the system is ever reset accidentally, the oil must be changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi) since the last oil change.

Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.

How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System

Reset the system whenever the engine oil is changed so that the system can calculate the next engine oil change. To reset the system:

1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the engine off.

2. Press the DIC MENU button on the turn signal lever to enter the Vehicle Information Menu. Use the thumbwheel to scroll through the menu items until you reach REMAINING OIL LIFE.

3. Press the SET/CLR button to reset the oil life at 100%.

4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

The system is reset when the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message is off and the REMAINING OIL LIFE 100% message is displayed.

If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes back on when the vehicle is started, the engine oil life system has not been reset. Repeat the procedure.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid

It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level.

A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer service department and have it repaired as soon as possible.

There is a special procedure for checking and changing the transmission fluid. Because this procedure is difficult, you should have this done at your dealer service department. Contact your dealer for additional information or the procedure can be found in the service manual. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information.

Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed in Maintenance Schedule, and be sure to use the fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

The engine air cleaner/filter is located in the engine compartment on the driver side of the vehicle.

See Engine Compartment Overview for more information on location.

When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the scheduled maintenance intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 80 000 km (50,000 mi) interval. See Maintenance Schedule for more information.

If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.

How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake the filter to release loose dust and dirt. If the filter remains covered with dirt, a new filter is required.

To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:

2.4L L4 Engine

2.4L L4 Engine

1. Remove the six screws on top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing.

2. Lift the filter cover housing away from the engine air cleaner/filter housing.

3. Pull out the filter.

4. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.

5. Lower the filter cover housing toward the engine.

6. Install the six screws on the top of the housing to lock the cover in place.

3.6L V6 Engine

3.6L V6 Engine

1. Remove the screws on top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing.

2. Lift the filter cover housing away from the engine.

3. Pull out the filter.

4. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.

5. Lower the filter cover housing toward the engine.

6. Install the screws on the top of the housing to lock the cover in place.

WARNING!
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. Use caution when working on the engine and do not drive with the air cleaner/filter off.

Notice:
If the air cleaner/filter is off, dirt can easily get into the engine, which could damage it.
Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you are driving.

Cooling System

The cooling system allows the engine to maintain the correct working temperature.

When it is safe to lift the hood:

2.4L L4 Engine

2.4L L4 Engine

A. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap

3.6L V6 Engine

3.6L V6 Engine

A. Engine Cooling Fans (Out of View)
B. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap

WARNING!
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

WARNING!
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned.
Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.

Notice:
Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® can cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner. Any repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always use DEX-COOL (silicate-free) coolant in the vehicle.

Engine Coolant

The cooling system in the vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant mixture. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants and Maintenance Schedule for more information.

The following explains the cooling system and how to check and add coolant when it is low. If there is a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating.

What to Use

WARNING!
Adding only plain water or some other liquid to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water and other liquids can boil before the proper coolant mixture will.
The coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.
With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant for non-eAssist engine(s). Use a 50/50 mixture of deionized water and DEX-COOL coolant for eAssist engine(s).

Use a 50/50 mixture of deionized water or clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant. If using this mixture, nothing else needs to be added.

This mixture:

• Gives freezing protection down to −37°C (−34°F), outside temperature.

• Gives boiling protection up to 129°C (265°F), engine temperature.

• Protects against rust and corrosion.

• Will not damage aluminum parts.

• Helps keep the proper engine temperature.

Notice:
If an improper coolant mixture is used, the engine could overheat and be badly damaged.
The repair cost would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Too much deionized water or clean, drinkable water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core, and other parts.

Never dispose of engine coolant by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, or into sewers, streams, or bodies of water. Have the coolant changed by an authorized service center, familiar with legal requirements regarding used coolant disposal. This will help protect the environment and your health.

Checking Coolant

The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking the coolant level.

Check to see if coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down.

If coolant is visible but the coolant level is not at or above the mark pointed to, add a 50/50 mixture of deionized water or clean drinkable water and DEX-COOL coolant.

Be sure the cooling system is cool before this is done.

If no coolant is visible in the coolant surge tank, add coolant as follows:

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank

WARNING!
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts.
Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.

Notice:
This vehicle has a specific coolant fill procedure.
Failure to follow this procedure could cause the engine to overheat and be severely damaged.

WARNING!
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

WARNING!
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the surge tank pressure cap—even a little—they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the surge tank pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and surge tank pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

The coolant surge tank pressure cap can be removed when the cooling system, including the surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.

1. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise. If a hiss is heard, wait for that to stop.

A hiss means there is still some pressure left.

2. Keep turning the cap and remove it.

3. Fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mixture to the mark pointed to on the front of the coolant surge tank.

4. With the coolant surge tank cap off, start the engine and let it run until the upper radiator hose starts getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mixture to the coolant surge tank until the level reaches the mark pointed to on the front of the coolant surge tank.

5. Replace the cap. Be sure the cap is hand–tight and fully seated.

Notice:
If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.

Engine Overheating

2.4L L4 Engine

There is a engine coolant temperature warning light on the instrument panel cluster that indicates an overheated engine condition. See Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light for more information.

3.6L V6 Engine

There is a coolant temperature gauge and a engine coolant temperature warning light on the instrument panel cluster that indicate an overheated engine condition. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge and Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light for more information.

If the decision is made not to lift the hood when this warning appears, get service help right away. See Roadside Assistance Program (U.S. and Canada) or Roadside Assistance Program (Mexico).

If the decision is made to lift the hood, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface.

Then check to see if the engine cooling fans are running. If the engine is overheating, the fans should be running. If not, do not continue to run the engine and have the vehicle serviced.

Notice:
Engine damage from running the engine without coolant is not covered by the warranty.

If Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment

See Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode for information on driving to a safe place in an emergency.

If No Steam Is Coming from the Engine Compartment

If an engine overheat warning is displayed but no steam can be seen or heard, the problem might not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when the vehicle:

• Climbs a long hill on a hot day.

• Stops after high-speed driving.

• Idles for long periods in traffic.

• Tows a trailer.

If the overheat warning displays with no sign of steam:

1. Turn the air conditioning off.

2. Turn the heater on to the highest temperature and to the highest fan speed. Open the windows as necessary.

3. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in N (Neutral) while stopped.

If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral), and let the engine idle.

2.4L L4 Engine

If the engine coolant temperature warning light no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven. Continue to drive the vehicle slowly for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe vehicle distance from the vehicle in front.

If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally.

3.6L V6 Engine

If the temperature overheat gauge is no longer in the overheat zone or an engine coolant temperature warning light no longer displays, the vehicle can be driven. Continue to drive the vehicle slowly for about 10 minutes.

Keep a safe vehicle distance from the vehicle in front. If the warning does not come back on, continue to drive normally.

If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away.

If there is no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while parked. If the warning is still displayed, turn off the engine until it cools down. Also, see Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode.

Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode

This emergency operating mode allows the vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, there is significant loss in power and engine performance.

2.4L L4 Engine

The engine coolant temperature warning light comes on the instrument panel, to indicate the vehicle has entered overheated engine protection operating mode.

Driving extended distances and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided.

3.6L V6 Engine

The engine coolant temperature warning light comes on the instrument panel, to indicate the vehicle has entered overheated engine protection operating mode.

The temperature gauge also indicates an overheat condition exists. Driving extended distances and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided.

Power Steering Fluid (2.4L L4 Engine)

The vehicle has electric power steering and does not use power steering fluid.

Power Steering Fluid (3.6L V6 Engine)

See Engine Compartment Overview for information on the location of the power steering fluid reservoir.

When to Check Power Steering Fluid

It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless a leak is suspected in the system or an unusual noise is heard. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.

How to Check Power Steering Fluid

Check the level after the vehicle has been driven for at least 20 minutes so the fluid is warm.

To check the power steering fluid:

1. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF and let the engine compartment cool down.

2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.

3. Unscrew the cap and pull it straight up.

4. Wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.

5. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.

6. Remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.

When the engine is hot, the level should be at the hot MAX level.

When the engine is cold, the fluid level should be between MIN and MAX on the dipstick.

What to Use

To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants. Always use the proper fluid.

Washer Fluid

What to Use

When windshield washer fluid is needed, be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions before use. If operating the vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.

Adding Washer Fluid

Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. See Engine Compartment Overview for reservoir location.

Notice. When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adding water.
• Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid.

Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage the washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
Also, water does not clean as well as washer fluid.
• Fill the washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for fluid expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.
• Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in the windshield washer. It can damage the windshield washer system and paint.

Brakes

This vehicle has disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed.

The sound can come and go or be heard all the time the vehicle is moving, except when applying the brake pedal firmly.

WARNING!
The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to a crash. When the brake wear warning sound is heard, have the vehicle serviced.

Notice:
Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.

Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes.

Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to torque specifications in Capacities and Specifications.

Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.

Brake Pedal Travel

See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service might be required.

Brake Adjustment

Every time the brakes are applied, with or without the vehicle moving, the brakes adjust for wear.

Replacing Brake System Parts

The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. The vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality brake parts. When parts of the braking system are replaced, be sure to get new, approved replacement parts.

If this is not done, the brakes might not work properly. For example, installing disc brake pads that are wrong for the vehicle, can change the balance between the front and rear brakes — for the worse. The braking performance expected can change in many other ways if the wrong replacement brake parts are installed.

Brake Fluid

The brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as indicated on the reservoir cap. See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the reservoir.

There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down:

• The brake fluid level goes down because of normal brake lining wear. When new linings are installed, the fluid level goes back up.

• A fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system can also cause a low fluid level. Have the brake hydraulic system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well.

Do not top off the brake fluid.

Adding fluid does not correct a leak.

If fluid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much fluid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

WARNING!
If too much brake fluid is added, it can spill on the engine and burn, if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and the vehicle could be damaged.
Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

When the brake fluid falls to a low level, the brake warning light comes on. See Brake System Warning Light.

What to Add

Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid from a sealed container. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.

Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir.

WARNING!
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.

Notice . Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake hydraulic system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake hydraulic system can damage brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced.
Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.
• If brake fluid is spilled on the vehicle's painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on the vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately.

Battery

This vehicle has a standard 12-volt battery. Refer to the replacement number on the original battery label when a new standard 12-volt battery is needed.

eAssist vehicles also have a high voltage battery. Only a trained service technician with the proper knowledge and tools should inspect, test, or replace the high voltage battery. See your dealer if the high voltage battery needs service. The dealer has information on how to recycle the high voltage battery.

There is also information available at http://www.recyclemybattery.com.

The eAssist system high voltage battery is cooled with air drawn from the vehicle interior. The cold air intake for the battery is located behind the rear seat, on the filler panel. Do not cover the intake.

WARNING!
Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

Vehicle Storage

WARNING!
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode.

You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See Jump Starting (On-board with eAssist Only) or Jump Starting (with or without eAssist) for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.

Infrequent Usage: Remove the 12-volt battery black, negative (−) cable from the battery to keep the battery from running down.

Extended Storage: Remove the 12-volt battery black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger.

Remember to reconnect the battery when ready to drive the vehicle.

Starter Switch Check

WARNING!
When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.

1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle.

2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake.

See Parking Brake.

Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts.

3. Try to start the engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in P (Park) or N (Neutral).

If the vehicle starts in any other position, contact your dealer for service.

Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control Function Check

WARNING!
When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.

1. Before starting this check, be sure there is enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface.

2. Firmly apply the parking brake.

See Parking Brake.

Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if the vehicle begins to move.

3. With the engine off, turn the ignition on, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of P (Park) with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of P (Park), contact your dealer for service.

Ignition Transmission Lock Check

While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF in each shift lever position.

• The ignition should turn to LOCK/OFF only when the shift lever is in P (Park).

• With the key access ignition system, the ignition key should come out only in LOCK/OFF.

See Ignition Positions (Key Access) or Ignition Positions (Keyless Access).

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Park Brake and P (Park) Mechanism Check

WARNING!
When you are doing this check, the vehicle could begin to move.

You or others could be injured and property could be damaged.

Make sure there is room in front of the vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.

Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.

• To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and the transmission in N (Neutral), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.

• To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability:

With the engine running, shift to P (Park). Then release the parking brake followed by the regular brake.

Contact your dealer if service is required.

Wiper Blade Replacement

Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking.

See Maintenance Schedule for more information.

Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see Maintenance Replacement Parts.

To replace the windshield wiper blade:

1. Pull the windshield wiper assembly away from the windshield.

2. Lift up on the latch in the middle of the wiper blade where the wiper arm attaches.

3. With the latch open, pull the wiper blade down toward the windshield far enough to release it from the J-hooked end of the wiper arm.

4. Remove the wiper blade.

Allowing the wiper blade arm to touch the windshield when no wiper blade is installed could damage the windshield. Any damage that occurs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not allow the wiper blade to touch the windshield.

5. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 for wiper blade replacement.