Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system, lubrication, cooling.
Engine Performance:
Fuel delivery, injection, ignition, emissions control (EVAP, EGR), turbocharging (if applicable, though unlikely for 3.5L), engine diagnostics.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (likely 6-speed), gearshifts, torque converter, hydraulic control, servicing, overhaul procedures.
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) and All-wheel drive (AWD) systems, driveshafts, CV joints, differentials, transfer case (if AWD).
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, EBD, ESC, brake calipers, rotors, pads, lines, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering column, rack and pinion, alignment specifications.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings), wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal/installation, chassis, structural components, doors, windows, glass, trim.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, climate controls.
Interior:
Seats, airbags, seat belts, interior trim, dashboard, console.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, scan tool usage.
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic flows for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based repair guidance.
Component Removal Installation:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and reinstalling major and minor components.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed procedures for overhauling engines, transmissions, and other major assemblies.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Fuse box locations, relay assignments, wiring harness repair, component testing.
Wheel Alignment:
Front and rear alignment specifications (camber, caster, toe) for optimal tire wear and handling.
Safety Systems Service:
Airbag system diagnostics and replacement, seat belt servicing.
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Level:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including sensor data interpretation and actuator testing.
Repair Level:
Complete repair procedures, from simple maintenance to full component rebuilds.
Wiring Diagrams:
Included, detailed electrical schematic diagrams for all vehicle systems.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4 Stars (out of 5) for 2012 models (check specific test results)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with specific optional features or configurations, check IIHS for details)
Standard Safety:
ABS, EBD, ESC, Traction Control, Trailer Stability Assist.
Optional Safety:
Backup camera, parking sensors.
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags for all rows.
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters for front seats, LATCH child seat anchors.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months for severe driving, 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months for normal driving (refer to manual for detailed definition of driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed or every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or as per manual recommendation for severe use.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium type, recommended replacement at 105,000 miles (168,000 km) (refer to manual for exact type and interval).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (approx. 5.5 quarts with filter)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, type: Long Life (Pink/Red), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Issues:
Occasional reports of oil consumption, potential for carbon buildup on intake valves (especially with direct injection on later engines, less common on MPI 3.5L).
Transmission Issues:
Some reports of rough shifting or hesitant engagement, particularly at higher mileage. Regular fluid changes are crucial.
Suspension Issues:
Worn bushings or struts can develop, leading to noise or handling degradation over time.
Electrical Issues:
Minor electrical gremlins can occur, such as issues with infotainment or sensor failures, but generally reliable.