For 1990-2009 cars

Step | Action | Yes | No
--- | --- | --- | ---
DEFINITION: You can repair most fluid leaks by first, visually locating the leak, repairing or replacing the component, or by resealing the gasket surface. Once the leak is identified, determine the cause of the leak. Repair the leak and the cause of the leak.
1 |

1. Operate the vehicle until it reaches normal operating temperature. Refer to Engine Mechanical Specifications .
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface over a large sheet of paper or other clean surface.
3. Wait 15 minutes.
4. Inspect for drippings.

Are drippings present?

Go to Step 2

System OK

2 | Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak? | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 3
3 |

1. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
2. Inspect for leaks at the following locations:

• | Sealing surfaces

• | Fittings

• | Cracked or damaged components

Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 4

4 |

1. Completely clean the entire engine and surrounding components.
2. Operate the vehicle for several miles at normal operating temperature and at varying speeds.
3. Park the vehicle on a level surface over a large sheet of paper or other clean surface.
4. Wait 15 minutes.
5. Identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak.

Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 5

5 |

1. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
2. Inspect for leaks at the following locations:

• | Sealing surfaces

• | Fittings

• | Cracked or damaged components

Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 6

6 |

1. Completely clean the entire engine and surrounding components.
2. Apply an aerosol-type powder, for example, baby powder or foot powder, to the suspected area.
3. Operate the vehicle for several miles at normal operating temperature and at varying speeds.
4. Identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak from the discolorations in the powder surface.

Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 7

7 |

1. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
2. Inspect for leaks at the following locations:

• | Sealing surfaces

• | Fittings

• | Cracked or damaged components

Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 8

8 | Use the J 28428-E high-intensity black light kit in order to identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions when using the tool. Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak? | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 9
9 |

1. Visually inspect the suspected area. Use a small mirror to assist in looking at hard to see areas.
2. Inspect for leaks at the following locations:

• | Sealing surfaces

• | Fittings

• | Cracked or damaged components

Can you identify the type of fluid and the approximate location of the leak?

Go to Step 10

System OK

10 |

1. Inspect the engine for mechanical damage. Special interest should be shown to the following areas:

• | Higher than recommended fluid levels

• | Higher than recommended fluid pressures

• | Plugged or malfunctioning fluid filters or pressure bypass valves

• | Plugged or malfunctioning engine ventilation system

• | Improperly tightened or damaged fasteners

• | Cracked or porous components

• | Improper sealants or gaskets, where required

• | Improper sealant or gasket installation

• | Damaged or worn gaskets or seals

• | Damaged or worn sealing surfaces

2. Inspect the engine for customer modifications.

Is there mechanical damage or customer modifications to the engine?

Go to Step 11

System OK

11 | Repair or replace all damaged or modified components. Did you complete the repair? | Go to Step 1 | --