VIN CODE ID EXPLANATION
Numbers preceding the explanations in the legend below refer to the sequence of characters as listed on VIN identification label. See VIN example below.
VIN Code ID Explanation. Scheme 12
OXYGEN SENSOR SERVICE
Because of deterioration of the oxygen sensor based strictly on mileage, the oxygen sensor must be replaced every 50,000 miles.
SERVICE LABOR TIMES
Note. For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor times are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE INTERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.
SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM (SRS) AIR BAG SYSTEM
Note. See the AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Section.
The SRS has no user-servicable parts. Always have servicing done by an authorized dealer.
When performing maintenance on air bag equipped vehicles always observe proper safety precautions.
| WARNING | To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully follow all warnings and service precautions. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEM article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section. |
| CAUTION | Disconnect negative battery cable before servicing any air bag system, steering column or passenger side dash component. After any repair, turn ignition key to the ON position from passenger's side of vehicle in case of accidental air bag inflation |
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS)
| CAUTION | Never mix different diameter tires. On loose or uneven surfaces, the ABS system may require longer stopping distances than conventional brake systems. Exercise caution when removing mud or snow from the wheels so as not to damage the ABS wiring or speed sensors. |
BATTERY WARNING
| WARNING | When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with computers may lose memory data. When battery power is restored, driveability problems may exist on some vehicles. These vehicles may require a relearn procedure. See appropriate COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section below. |
REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
Before replacing a blown fuse, remove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid damaging the electrical system. Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated amperage rating. The use of an incorrect amperage rating fuse may result in a dangerous electrical system overload.
BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacement.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
Continued operation of vehicle with a severe malfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting in possible damage to converter and vehicle.
COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)
| CAUTION | To avoid possible damage to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a mixture ratio from 44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the formation of cooling system deposits. This results in coolant temperatures of over 300° F (149°C) which can melt plastics. 100% anti-freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C). |
| CAUTION | Propylene-Glycol Mixtures has a smaller temperature range than Ethylene-Glycol. The temperature range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F (125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C) |
| CAUTION | Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors. Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant, which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations. |
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
| WARNING | Many solid state electrical components can be damaged by static electricity (ESD). Some will display a warning label, but many will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a metal ground point on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive component. |
ENGINE OIL
| CAUTION | Never use non-detergent or straight mineral oil. |
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE
| WARNING | Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system component (fuel injection models). |
HALOGEN BULBS
| WARNING | Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which may explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen bulbs. |
RADIATOR CAP
| CAUTION | Always disconnect the fan motor when working near the radiator fan. The fan is temperature controlled and could start at any time even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or remove radiator cap when cooling system is hot. |
RADIATOR FAN
| WARNING | Keep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a thermostatic switch which may come on or run for up to 15 minutes even after engine is turned off. |
ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD
| WARNING | Contact with live components of ignition system while engine is running could lead to a fatal electric shock. |
REMOVABLE TOWING EYE
Note. When using the removable towing eye, ensure it is fully tightened.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
| CAUTION | Always refer to customer's copy of warranty information for specific model application and/or coverage limitations . |
BASIC NEW CAR WARRANTY
Covers every manufacture supplied part for 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Tires are covered by a separate warranty offered by the tire manufacturer.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Warrants cars to be free of defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 4 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. (1989-90 vehicles covered for 3 years/36,000 miles).
SRS (AIR BAG) WARRANTY
Covered by the Limited Warranty for a period of 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.
ANTI-CORROSION
Covers holes caused by corrosion in body sheet metal for 6 years, without respect to mileage, so long as the yearly inspection and maintenance services are performed.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM LIMITED WARRANTY
Manufacturer warrants to the initial purchaser and each subsequent purchaser that this vehicle is designed, built, and equipped so as to conform at the time of sale with all U.S. and California Air Resources Board emission regulations applicable at the time of manufacture and that this vehicle is free from defects in materials and workmanship which cause it to fail to conform with applicable regulations within the first 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM LIMITED WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
Warrants that vehicle is free from defects in materials and workmanship which cause it to fail to conform with applicable emission requirements or to fail a California Smog Check test or EPA approved short test for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. After 3 years or 50,000 miles, repairs are limited to the repair or replacement of those parts listed on the California Emissions Warranty Parts List. If your California registered vehicle is between 3 and 5 years old and has been driven less than 50,000 miles, then your vehicle is eligible for additional coverage under the Emission Control System Limited Warranty. Emissions Warranty Parts List (California)
- Airflow Meter/Air Mass Meter
- Servo Motor, Including Throttle Valve Potentiometer
- EML Control Unit
- Intake Manifold Assembly
- Throttle Valve Housing Assembly
- Motronic Control Unit
- Fuel Tank
- 3-Way Catalyst