LONGEVITY TIPS
- Your vehicle identification number (VIN) identifies
the production features of your vehicle. It can be used to select the
appropriate replacement part. The VIN is located on the top of the left
(driver's) side of the dashboard immediately below the windshield (for 1981 and
later models). The VIN is essentially a serial number of the vehicle produced.
However, in addition to the unit number in the production process, the VIN often
contains codes that denote the following: manufacturer, model, body type, engine
type, model year, and assembly plant. When purchasing replacement parts for your
vehicle, be certain that the make, model, year and engine size have been
accurately identified so the wrong part is not purchased. Give the auto parts
salesperson your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) if necessary to help
identify your vehicle features and find the right part.
- Use a torque
wrench to prevent excessively tightening parts and damaging them.
The same tool can help prevent inadequately tightened parts that may become
loose and fall apart.
- Use a bicycle pump or a can of compressed air to
blow dirt out of crevices before opening them. Dirt that falls into an
engine will cause extreme wear and early failure.
- If it is necessary to remove rusted nuts or bolts
from your vehicle in order to perform maintenance or repair procedures,
lubricate them with penetrating oil about two hours prior to commencement of
work. This should permit the bolts to be easily removed. It will also
prevent part damage and potential hand injury.
- Deactivate any computerized air suspension system,
if so equipped, prior to removing weight from tires, that is, lifting the
vehicle off of the ground. The system may be damaged if not turned off
before underbody work is performed. Reactivate the computerized air suspension
system after the servicing procedure is complete.
SYSTEMS
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
SAFETY TIPS
SAFETY TIPS