THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Checking Your Vehicle For Safety

 Engine Break-In Recommendations Things To Know Before Starting Your Vehicle Understanding The Features Of Your Vehicle 2000 Dodge Durango Handbook

Exhaust System

WARNING!
Exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, an extremely toxic gas that by itself is colorless and oderless. To avoid inhaling these gases, the following precautions should be observed.

  • Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in confined areas any longer than needed to move your vehicle in or out of the area.
  • It may be necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the engine running for more than a short period. If so, adjust your climate control system to force outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower at high speed and the controls in any position except OFF or RECIRC.
  • The best protection against carbon monoxide entry into the vehicle body is a properly maintained engine exhaust system.

Be aware of changes in the sound of the exhaust system; exhaust fumes detected inside the vehicle; or damage to the underside or rear of the vehicle. Have a competent mechanic inspect the complete exhaust system and adjacent body areas for broken, damaged deteriorated or mispoistioned parts. Open seams or loose connections could permit exhaust fumes to seep into the passenger compartment. In addition, inspect the exhaust system each time the vehicle is raised for lubrication or oil change. Replace or adjust as required.

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The Vehicle

Seat Belts
Inspect the belt system periodlically, checking for cuts, frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system.

Seat belt assemblies must be replaced after an accident if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing, etc.). If there is any question regarding belt or retractor condition, replace the belt.

Defrosters
Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place the blower control on high speed. You can feel the air directed against the windshield.

Saftey Checks You Should Make Outside The Vehicle

Tires
Examine tires for tread wear or uneven wear patterns. Check for stones, nails, glas or other objects lodged in the tread.

Inspect for tread cuts or sidewall cracks. Check wheel nuts for tightness and tires for proper pressure.

Lights
Have someone observe the operation of exterior lights as you turn them on. Check turn signal and high beam indicator lights on the instrument panel.

Door Latches
Check for positive closing, latching and locking.

Fluid Leaks
Check the area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel, water, oil or other fluid leaks. Also, if gaoline fumes are detected, the cause should be located and corrected.