Chevrolet Sonic Owner's Manual: Additional Maintenance and Care

Your vehicle is an important investment and caring for it properly may help to avoid future costly repairs. To maintain vehicle performance, additional maintenance services may be required.

It is recommended that your dealer perform these services — their trained dealer technicians know your vehicle best. Your dealer can also perform a thorough assessment with a multi-point inspection to recommend when your vehicle may need attention.

The following list is intended to explain the services and conditions to look for that may indicate services are required.

Battery

The battery supplies power to start the engine and operate any additional electrical accessories.

• To avoid break-down or failure to start the vehicle, maintain a battery with full cranking power.
• Trained dealer technicians have the diagnostic equipment to test the battery and ensure that the connections and cables are corrosion-free.

Belts

• Belts may need replacing if they squeak or show signs of cracking or splitting.
• Trained dealer technicians have access to tools and equipment to inspect the belts and recommend adjustment or replacement when necessary.
• A message may indicate when scheduled maintenance on the timing belt and other components is required.

Brakes

Brakes stop the vehicle and are crucial to safe driving.

• Signs of brake wear may include chirping, grinding, or squealing noises, or difficulty stopping.
• Trained dealer technicians have access to tools and equipment to inspect the brakes and recommend quality parts engineered for the vehicle.

Fluids

Proper fluid levels and approved fluids protect the vehicle’s systems and components. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants  for GM approved fluids.

• Engine oil and windshield washer fluid levels should be checked at every fuel fill.
• Instrument cluster lights may come on to indicate that fluids may be low and need to be filled.

Hoses

Hoses transport fluids and should be regularly inspected to ensure that there are no cracks or leaks. With a multi-point inspection, your dealer can inspect the hoses and advise if replacement is needed.

Lamps

Properly working headlamps, taillamps, and brake lamps are important to see and be seen on the road.

• Signs that the headlamps need attention include dimming, failure to light, cracking, or damage. The brake lamps need to be checked periodically to ensure that they light when braking.
• With a multi-point inspection, your dealer can check the lamps and note any concerns.

Shocks and Struts

Shocks and struts help aid in control for a smoother ride.

• Signs of wear may include steering wheel vibration, bounce/ sway while braking, longer stopping distance, or uneven tire wear.
• As part of the multi-point inspection, trained dealer technicians can visually inspect the shocks and struts for signs of leaking, blown seals, or damage, and can advise when service is needed.

Tires

Tires need to be properly inflated, rotated, and balanced. Maintaining the tires can save money and fuel, and can reduce the risk of tire failure.

• Signs that the tires need to be replaced include three or more visible treadwear indicators; cord or fabric showing through the rubber; cracks or cuts in the tread or sidewall; or a bulge or split in the tire.
• Trained dealer technicians can inspect and recommend the right tires. Your dealer can also provide tire/wheel balancing services to ensure smooth vehicle operation at all speeds. Your dealer sells and services name brand tires.

Vehicle Care

To help keep the vehicle looking like new, vehicle care products are available from your dealer. For information on how to clean and protect the vehicle’s interior and exterior, see Interior Care  and Exterior Care.

Wheel Alignment

Wheel alignment is critical for ensuring that the tires deliver optimal wear and performance.

• Signs that the alignment may need to be adjusted include pulling, improper vehicle handling, or unusual tire wear.
• Your dealer has the required equipment to ensure proper wheel alignment.

Windshield

For safety, appearance, and the best viewing, keep the windshield clean and clear.

• Signs of damage include scratches, cracks, and chips.
• Trained dealer technicians can inspect the windshield and recommend proper replacement if needed.

Wiper Blades

Wiper blades need to be cleaned and kept in good condition to provide a clear view.

• Signs of wear include streaking, skipping across the windshield, and worn or split rubber.
• Trained dealer technicians can check the wiper blades and replace them when needed.