Movable Head Restraint Operation:
Make sure the restraints stay in the desired position. Refer to Head Restraints of your owner's handbook for adjustment instructions.
Seatback Latch and Recliner Operation:
On the folding seats, be sure the seatbacks latch. Make sure the recliner is saying anchored by pushing and pulling on the top of the seatback while it is reclined. Refer to Reclining Seatbacks of your owner's handbook for adjustment instructions.
Spare Tire and Jack Storage:
Be alert to rattles in the rear of the vehicle. Make sure the spare tire, all jacking equipment, and any covers are securely slowed, according to instructions, at all times. Oil the jack lead screw (long threaded rod) after each use. Check to ensure that the spare tire is properly inflated.
Weatherstrip Lubrication:
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, damp weather, more frequent application may be required. Refer to Part C: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants of your owner's handbook for adjustment instructions.
Key Lock Service:
Lubricate the key lock cylinder with the lubricant specified Part C: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants section.
Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI):
To check the Brake Transmission Shift Interlock the parking brake should be set and the key should be turned to the "RUN" position without starting the engine. Attempt to move the shift selector from the "P" (Park) position. The selector should not move until the brake has been depressed. Service as necessary.
Wiper Blade Refill Kit:
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. If the blade appears to be worn or damaged or if they streak or miss areas of the windshield, replace the windshield wiper blade insert with wiper blade refill fit (Saturn P/N 22674555). When needed, replace the station wagon rear window blade insert (Saturn P/N 09152402).
Starter Safety Switch Operation
Caution: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
- Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle.
- Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake.
- On automatic transaxle vehicles, try to start the engine in each gear. The starter should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the starter works in any other position, contact your Saturn retailer for service.
On manual transaxle vehicles, put the shift lever in NEUTRAL, push the clutch pedal down halfway and try to start the engine. The starter should work only when the clutch pedal is pushed down all the way to the floor. If the starter works when the clutch is not pushed all the way down, contact your Saturn retailer for service.
Steering Column Lock Operation:
While parked, try to turn the key to "OFF" in each shifter position. The key should turn to "OFF" only when the selector is in "P" (Park). Service as necessary.
Parking Brake and Transaxle "P" (Park) Mechanism Operation:
Caution: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured.
To check the parking brake, follow this procedure:
- Parked on a slight downhill grade.
- Apply the parking brake.
- Fully apply the parking brake. The red "BRAKE" light should come on when the ignition is turned to the "RUN" or "ACC" position.
- With the engine running and the transmission in "N" (Neutral), slowly let up on the brake pedal until the car is held in place by only the parking brake.
If the parking brake will not hold the vehicle or the "BRAKE" like does not stay on, have your vehicle serviced.
To check the automatic transaxle "P" (Park) mechanism holding ability, release all brakes after shifting the transaxle to "P" (Park).
Underbody Service
At least every spring, clean the underbody with water to remove any corrosive substances used for ice and snow removal and dust control. Take care to thoroughly clean any areas where mud and other debris can collect. Sediment packed in closed areas of the vehicle should be loosened before being cleaned.
Underhood Cleaning:
Do not use abrasive cleaners (like chrome polish) to clean your engine and its components. They can be damage.
Engine Cooling System Inspection:
Inspect and test the protection against overheating and freezing. If the coolant is dirty or has a rusty appearance, drain, flush and refill with new coolant. Keep it at the 50/50 mixture specified in Part C: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants . This provides proper freeze protection, corrosion inhibitor level, and engine operation temperature.
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps: replace as needed. Carefully clean the outside of the radiator and the air conditioner condenser to avoid damage to their fins. Wash the filler cap and neck.
To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.
