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4-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance
CAUTION
The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that may
move suddenly, become hot, or become electrically energized. To avoid death
or serious injury observe the following precautions.
■
When working on the engine compartment
●
Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from the moving fan and engine
drive belt.
●
Be careful not to touch the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, etc. right
after driving as they may be hot. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.
●
Do not leave anything that may burn easily, such as paper or rags, in the
engine compartment.
●
Do not smoke, cause sparks or expose an open flame to fuel or the bat-
tery. Fuel and battery fumes are flammable.
●
Be extremely cautious when working on the battery. It contains poisonous
and corrosive sulfuric acid.
●
Take care because brake fluid can harm your hands or eyes and damage
painted surfaces.
If fluid gets on your hands or in your eyes, flush the affected area with
clean water immediately.
If you still experience discomfort, see a doctor.
■
When working near the electric cooling fans or radiator grille
Be sure the engine switch is OFF. With the engine switch in the “ON” posi-
tion, the electric cooling fans may automatically start to run if the air condi-
tioning is on and/or the coolant temperature is high. (
→
P. 342)
■
Safety glasses
Wear safety glasses to prevent flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. from
getting in the eyes.
