If you perform maintenance yourself, be sure to follow the correct procedures as given in these sections.

CAUTION
The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that may move suddenly, become hot, or become electrically energized. To avoid death or serious injury, observe the following precautions.

■When working on the engine compartment
●Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from the moving fans and engine drive belt.
●Be careful not to touch the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, etc. right after driving as they may be hot. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.
●Do not leave anything that may burn easily, such as paper or rags, in the engine compartment.
●Do not smoke, cause sparks or expose an open flame to fuel or the battery. Fuel and battery fumes are flammable.
●Be extremely cautious when working on the battery. It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.
●Take care because brake fluid can harm your hands or eyes and damage painted surfaces.
If fluid gets on your hands or in your eyes, flush the affected area with clean water immediately. If you still experience discomfort, see a doctor.

■When working near the electric cooling fans or radiator grille
Vehicles without smart key system: Be sure the engine switch is OFF. With the engine switch in the “ON” position, the electric cooling fans may automatically start to run if the air conditioning is on and/or the coolant temperature is high. Vehicles with smart key system: Be sure the “ENGINE START STOP” switch is OFF. With the “ENGINE START STOP” switch in IGNITION ON mode, the electric cooling fans may automatically start to run if the air conditioning is on and/or the coolant temperature is high.

■Safety glasses
Wear safety glasses to prevent flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. from getting in the eyes.

NOTICE
■If you remove the air cleaner filter
Driving with the air cleaner removed may cause excessive engine wear due to dirt in the air. Also a backfire could cause a fire in the engine compartment.