1997 Mercury Mountaineer Scheduled Maintenance Guide 1st Printing - Page 42

Owner maintenance checks The following lists are vehicle checks and inspections that should be performed by the owner or qualifiedservice technician at the frequencies indicated to help ensure safe, dependable operation of your vehicle. Any adverse conditions should be brought to the attention of your dealer or qualified service technicianfor service advice as soon as possible. These Owner Maintenance Checks are generally not covered by warranties and you may be charged forlabor, parts and lubricants used. WHEN YOU STOP FOR FUEL • Check the engine oil level. • Check the windshield washer fluid level. • Look for low or under-inflated tires. WHEN OPERATING YOUR VEHICLE • Note any changes in the sound of the exhaust or any smell of exhaust fumes in the vehicle. • Check for vibrations in the steering wheel. Notice any increased steering effort or looseness in thesteering wheel, or change in its straight ahead position. • Notice if your vehicle constantly turns slightly or "pulls" to one side when traveling onsmooth, level road. • When stopping, listen and check for strange sounds, pulling to one side, increased brakepedal travel or "hard to push" brake pedal. • If any slipping or changes in the operation of your transmission occurs, check the transmission fluidlevel. • Check automatic transmission P (Park) function. • Check parking brake. 41