For questions or comments regarding this advisory, please email AAA, Technical Training and Research at:
For detailed vehicle procedures and specifications,
refer to the latest edition of the
AAA/CAA Towing & Service Manual
For updates and road service information, visit:
aaacampus.aaa.biz
Battery/Jump-Starting
Sensitive electronic component damage and blown fuses can be avoided by
following these basic best practices:
1. Secure the vehicle. Turn OFF the ignition and all electrical components.
Remove the key. Keep all electronic keys at least 10 feet away from the
disabled vehicle.
2. Always verify battery terminal polarity prior to connecting jump leads.
3.
Connect (+) positive jump lead and then the (-) negative ground lead.
4. Prior to disconnecting the jump leads, turn on the blower motor to high.
This applies a slight load to the electrical system.
5.
Remove jump leads starting with (-) negative ground lead and then re
-
move the (+) positive lead.
General Road Service Information
Tire Service
Avoid damage by following these tire service best practices:
1.
Verify the vehicle has a road worthy and properly inflated spare tire.
2. Secure the vehicle by: turning OFF the ignition, removing the key and
chocking the wheel diagonally from the wheel being serviced.
3. Use jack stands when the vehicle is lifted off the ground.
4. Clean all surfaces to ensure a clean, rust-free mating surface.
5. Ensure the proper lug nuts/bolts are used. Especially with after-market
wheels.
6.
Always start lug nuts/bolts by hand to avoid cross-threading.
7. Tighten lug nuts/bolts using an "X" or Star pattern and torque to proper
specifications.
Fuel Service
Avoid damage by following these fuel service best practices:
1. Verify the correct fuel type required: Gas, Diesel, Hydrogen.
2. If the fuel door fails to open: look for a secondary fuel door release. They
are typically accessed through the inside trunk/cargo area, close to where
the fuel door is located.
3.
Identify no-cap fuel filler necks and use an approved funnel when re
-
quired to avoid damaging the filler flap.
4. Protect painted surfaces from fuel spills.
5. Prior to attempting to start the vehicle, cycle the ignition to the run posi-
tion twice. This will prime the fuel system prior to attempting to start the
engine.