GMC SAFARI 2002 User Manual
2002 GMC Safari
Owner's Manual
Litho in U.S.A. | ECopyright General Motors Corporation 6/27/01 |
Part Number X2210 A First Edition | All Rights Reserved |
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GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, GMC, the GMC Truck Emblem and the name SAFARI are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation.
This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name ªGeneral Motors of Canada Limitedº for GMC whenever it appears in this manual.
Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be there if you ever need it when you're on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.
We support voluntary technician certification.
For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a
French Language Manual:
Aux propriétaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en français chez votre concessionaire ou au:
Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
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How to Use this Manual
Many people read their owner's manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you'll find that pictures and words work together to explain
things quickly.
Safety Warnings and Symbols
You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.
CAUTION:
These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don't, you or others could be hurt.
You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means ªDon't,º ªDon't do thisº or ªDon't let this happen.º
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Vehicle Damage Warnings
Also, in this book you will find these notices:
NOTICE:
These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.
In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage.
When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words.
You'll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.
Vehicle Symbols
Your vehicle may be equipped with components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols, used on your vehicle, are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a
specific component, control, message, gage or indicator.
If you need help figuring out a specific name of a component, gage or indicator reference the following topics in the Index:
DªEngine Compartment Overviewº
DªInstrument Panelº
DªComfort Controlsº
DªAudio Systemsº
Also see ªWarning Lights and Gagesº in the Index.
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These are some examples of vehicle symbols you may find on your vehicle:
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Model Reference
This manual covers these models:
Cargo Van |
| Passenger Van |
|
|
|
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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
Here you'll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
Seats and Seat Controls |
| Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for | ||
| ||||
Safety Belts: They're for Everyone |
|
| Children and Small Adults | |
Here Are Questions Many People Ask |
| Center Passenger Position (Bench Seat) | ||
| About Safety Belts |
| Children | |
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly |
| Restraint Systems for Children | ||
Driver Position |
| Older Children | ||
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy |
| Safety Belt Extender | ||
Right Front Passenger Position |
| Checking Your Restraint Systems | ||
Air Bag System |
| Replacing Restraint System Parts | ||
Rear Seat Passengers |
|
| After a Crash | |
|
|
|
|
|
Seats and Seat Controls
This section tells you about the seats
Manual Front Seats
CAUTION:
You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver's seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don't want to. Adjust the driver's seat only when the vehicle is not moving.
Two-Way Front Seat
The bucket seats can be adjusted forward or
rearward using the lever located under the front of the seat.
Move the seat adjustment lever located under the front of the seat toward the outboard side of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure that the seat is locked into place.
Manual Lumbar Support (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has this feature, there will be a knob located on the inboard side of the driver's and passenger's bucket seats.
Turn the knob toward the front of the vehicle to increase lumbar support. Turn the knob toward the rear of the vehicle to decrease lumbar support.
Power Seat (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has this feature, there will be a control pad located on the inboard side of the driver's seat.
To raise or lower the front of the seat cushion, raise or lower the lever located toward the front of the vehicle.
To raise or lower the rear of the seat cushion, raise or lower the lever located toward the rear of the vehicle.
To move the entire seat backwards, forward, or up or down, move the center knob.
Reclining Seatbacks
There is a lever located on the inside of the seat to adjust the seatback.
You can adjust the seatback by lifting the lever and leaning back. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the lever, lean forward and the seatback will go to an upright position.
But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
CAUTION:
Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can't do their job when you're reclined like this.
The shoulder belt can't do its job because it won't be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.
The lap belt can't do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.
For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.
Head Restraints
Head restraints are fixed on some models and adjustable on others. Adjust your head restraint so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.
Seatback Latches
The seatback lever is located on the right rear of your seat.
To fold your
After the latch has been released, push the seatback toward the front of the vehicle until it locks into place. To raise the seatback, unlock the seatback latch by pushing up on the lever while pushing down on the upper edge of the seatback. Move the seatback into the upright position. Make sure the seatback is locked when it is back in the upright position.
CAUTION:
If the seatback isn't locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it
is locked.
Rear Seats
Bucket Seats (If Equipped)
Your vehicle may have rear bucket seats with an adjustment release bar located under the front of the seats. These seats can be adjusted forward or rearward with the release bar. Pull the release bar up to release the seat bottom. Slide the seat where you want it and then let go of the release bar. Then try to move the seat with your body to make sure the seat is locked into place.
Bench Seats
Each bench seat can carry up to three passengers. They can also be removed to increase storage space.
The center bench and rear bench seats can be adjusted forward or rearward using the lever at the front of the seat.
Move the seat adjustment lever located at the front of the seat toward the passenger's side to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to
make sure the seat is locked into place.
The center bench seat has a pivoting right armrest.
The optional bench seats come with moveable armrests, individual reclining seatbacks, adjustable headrests and a
To raise or lower the center console, press the button located between the beverage holders. Sit in the center seating position only when the console is in an
upright and locked position.
For details about headrests, see ªHead Restraintsº in
this section.
To adjust your seatback, pull up on the lever located on the outboard side of the seat cushion.
Removing the Rear Seats
To remove the rear seats, do the following:
1. If you are removing the center seat, remove the right
2. If you have a safety belt guide on your seat, pull the safety belt all the way out through the guide.
3.To store the safety belt while the second row bench seat is removed, pull the belt out and put both buckles in the passenger's side rear storage bin.
Route the belt out of the forward edge of the storage bin. Close the cover to retain the belt.
4.Pull up on the seatback latch on the right rear of the seat. Push the seatback down until it locks into place.
5.Lift up on the left and the right seat release levers at the same time. The latches are near the floor on the rear legs of the seat.
6.Lift up on the rear of the seat to remove the seat assembly from the rear latch pins. Then, pull back and lift the seat out of the vehicle.
Your seat release latch lever is operated with a
a low effort to overcome the first stage and then a moderate effort to fully release the latch.
Replacing the Rear Seats
1.Lower the seat into position. Make sure the front retainers are hooked onto the anchor pins.
2.Pull the seat down to latch the rear retainers. Make sure the seat is locked in by pulling up and down on the seat.
CAUTION:
A seat that isn't locked into place properly can move around in a collision or sudden stop. People in the vehicle could be injured. Be sure to lock the seat into place properly when installing it.
3.To raise the seatback, do the following:
A.Unlock the seatback latch by pushing up on the latch release lever at the right rear of the seat, while pushing down on the upper edge of the seatback.
B.Move the seatback into the upright position. Make sure the seatback is locked when it is back in the upright position.
If you are replacing the center seat, connect the right
If you installed the safety belt with the release hole facing inward (toward the seat), slide the plastic cover up so you can see the buckle. Disconnect the seat belt. Slide the cover back down and reinstall the belt correctly.
CAUTION:
A safety belt that is improperly routed, not properly attached, or twisted won't provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured.
After installing the seat, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, and are not twisted.
Safety Belts: They're for Everyone
This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts.
And it explains the air bag system.
CAUTION:
Don't let anyone ride where he or she can't wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you're not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers' belts are fastened properly too.
CAUTION:
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.
Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See ªSafety Belt Reminder Lightº in the Index.
In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here's why: They work.
You never know if you'll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don't know if it will be a bad one.
A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn't survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt
or killed.
After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!
Why Safety Belts Work
When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.
Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels.
Put someone on it. | Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider |
| doesn't stop. |
The person keeps going until stopped by something. | or the instrument panel ... |
In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
or the safety belts!
With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That's why safety belts make such good sense.
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers
Q: Won't I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I'm wearing a safety belt?
A: Youcould be
belt, even if you're upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, ismuch greater if you are belted.
Q: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts?
A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they workwith
safety belts
Q: If I'm a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts?
A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you're in an accident
Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h).
Safety belts are for everyone.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
Adults
This part is only for people of adult size.
Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child
will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called ªChildren.º Follow those rules for everyone's protection.
First, you'll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has.
We'll start with the driver position.
Driver Position
This part describes the driver's restraint system.
Lap-Shoulder Belt
The driver has a
1.Close and lock the door.
2.Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight. To see how, see ªSeatsº in the Index.
3.Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't let it get twisted.
4.Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn't long enough, see ªSafety Belt Extenderº at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be
less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster
Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.
To move it down, push it in at the top of the arrows and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without pushing in to make sure it has locked into position.
Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.
Q: What's wrong with this?
A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearly as much protection this way.
CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
Q: What's wrong with this?
CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.
A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
Q: What's wrong with this?
CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests.
A: The belt is over an armrest.
Q: What's wrong with this?
A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren't as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.
Q: What's wrong with this?
CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is
twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.
A: The belt is twisted across the body.
To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.
Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don't wear safety belts.
A pregnant woman should wear a
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly,
it's more likely that the fetus won't be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.
Right Front Passenger Position
To learn how to wear the right front passenger's safety belt properly, see ªDriver Positionº earlier in this section.
The right front passenger's safety belt works the same way as the driver's safety belt
Air Bag System
This part explains the air bag system.
Your vehicle has air bags
Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating air bag. But these air bags must inflate very quickly to do their job and comply with federal regulations.
Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:
CAUTION:
You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren't wearing your safety belt
at all in rollover, rear or
CAUTION:
Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you're too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you.
Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.
CAUTION:
Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus
How the Air Bag System Works
United States | Canada |
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG or the air bag symbol.
The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See ªAir Bag Readiness Lightº in the Index for more information.
Where are the air bags?
The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
The right front passenger's air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side.
CAUTION:
If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don't put
anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don't attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.
When should an air bag inflate?
An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or
In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or
What makes an air bag inflate?
In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.
How does an air bag restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or
of the impact more evenly over the occupant's upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and many side impacts, primarily because an occupant's motion is not toward those air bags. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts,
and then only in moderate to severe frontal or
What will you see after an air bag inflates?
After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates,
so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module
The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn't prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the
vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.
CAUTION:
When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can't get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.
DAir bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you'll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don't get them, the air bag system won't be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.
DYour vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the system commands air bag inflation and driver's safety belt usage at deployment. The module also records speed, engine rpm, brake and throttle data.
DLet only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won't work properly. See your dealer for service.
NOTICE:
If you damage the covering for the driver's or the right front passenger's air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger's air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don't want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see ªService and Owner Publicationsº in the Index.
CAUTION:
For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag
when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.
The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.
Adding Equipment to Your Air
Q: If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags from working properly?
A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle's basic structure isn't changed, it's not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash.
Q: Is there anything I might add to the front of the vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly?
A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle's frame, bumper system, front end sheet metal or height, they may keep the air bag system from working properly. Also, the air bag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the air bag sensors. If you have any questions about this,
you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and
addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See ªCustomer Satisfaction Procedureº in the Index.
Rear Seat Passengers
It's very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts.
Rear passengers who aren't safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions
Lap-Shoulder Belt
These positions have
1.Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't let it get twisted.
2.Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
If the belt is not long enough, see ªSafety Belt Extenderº at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
3.To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be
less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash.
CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults
Your vehicle may have rear shoulder belt comfort guides. This feature will provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide better positions the belt away from the neck and head.
To provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts. Here's how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:
1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the side of the seatback.
2.Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.
3.Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
Center Passenger Position (Bench Seat)
4.Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in ªRear Seat Outside Passenger Positionsº earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guides. Slide the guide onto the storage clip.
Lap Belt
If your vehicle has rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.
When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a
Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Children
Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every
Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
Infants and Young Children
(Except Cargo Vans)
Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by the appropriate restraint. Young children should not use the vehicle's safety belts, unless there is no other choice.
CAUTION:
People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a
CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus
Q: What are the different types of
A:
by the vehicle's owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child's weight, height and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.
For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available. When purchasing a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards.
The restraint manufacturer's instructions that come with the restraint state the weight and height limitations for a particular child restraint. In addition, there are many kinds of restraints available for children with special needs.
CAUTION:
Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant's neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a
restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant's body, the back and shoulders. Infants always should be secured in appropriate infant restraints.
CAUTION:
The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child's hip bones are still so small that the vehicle's regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child's abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that's unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young children always should be secured in appropriate child restraints.
Infants and Young Children (Cargo Vans)
CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus
CAUTION:
Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant's neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a
CAUTION:
The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child's hip bones are still so small that the vehicle's regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child's abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that's unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young children always should be secured in appropriate child restraints.
CAUTION:
People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much
For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a
Restraint Systems for Children
An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant's head rests toward the center of the vehicle.
A
crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
A
A booster seat
Q: How do child restraints work?
A: A child restraint system is any device designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A
For many years,
system holds the child in place within the restraint.
One system, the
When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards.
Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. When securing an
Where to Put the Restraint (Except Cargo Vans)
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. General Motors, therefore, recommends that child restraints be secured in a rear seat including an infant riding in a
CAUTION:
A child in a
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
You may secure a
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle
Where to Put the Restraint (Cargo Vans)
The child restraint must be secured properly in the passenger seat. Never put a
CAUTION:
A child in a
to the inflating air bag. Do not use a
If a
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle
Top Strap
Some child restraints have a top strap, or ªtop tether.º It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision. For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored to the vehicle. Some top
If the child restraint does not have a top strap, one can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is available.
In Canada, the law requires that
Anchor the top strap to one of the following anchor points. Be sure to use an anchor point located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. If you have an adjustable head restraint, route the top strap under it. Raise the head restraint and route the top strap under it.
Once you have the top strap anchored, you'll be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap when and as the child restraint manufacturer's instructions say.
If your vehicle is a cargo van, the anchoring point for a top strap is located at the rear of the seat cushion on the right front passenger's seat spacer bar. Anchor the top strap through the two slots.
Cargo Van Models
If your vehicle is a passenger van with rear seats, it is recommended that you secure a child restraint with a top strap only in the outboard positions of the second row.
Bucket Seats: An anchoring point is located below the rear of the seat cushion on the spacer bar. Anchor the top strap through the two slots on the bar.
Bench Seats: An anchor bracket is located at the rear of the seat cushion near the top rear of the seat leg for each outboard seating position of the second row. For the third row, an anchor bracket is located at the rear of the seat cushion near the top rear of the seat leg for the right outboard seating position.
If you have adjustable head restraints, raise the head restraint and route the top strap under it.
Passenger Van Bucket Seats
Passenger Van Bench Seat (Second row)
The third row has one anchor for the passenger side outboard position only.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear
Outside Seat Position
You'll be using the
1.Put the restraint on the seat.
2.Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child's face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
3.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
4.To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you're using a
5.Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position (Bench Seat)
You'll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say.
See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.
1.Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt.
2.Put the restraint on the seat.
3.Run the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
4.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5.To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. If you're using a
helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
6.Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right
Front Seat Position
Your vehicle has a front passenger air bag. Never put a
CAUTION:
A child in a
the
If your vehicle is a cargo van, do not use a
If a
Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a
You'll be using the
1.Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a
2.Put the restraint on the seat.
3.Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child's face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
4.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5.Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.
6.To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
7.Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Older Children
Older children who have outgrown booster seats should wear the vehicle's safety belts.
If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a
Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?
A: If possible, an older child should wear a
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat.
In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown out of the vehicle. Older children need to use safety belts properly.
CAUTION:
Never do this.
Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can't properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.
Q: What if a child is wearing a
A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child's shoulder, so that in a crash the child's upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see ªRear Safety Belt Comfort Guidesº in the Index.
If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child's face or neck, you might want to place the child in a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.
CAUTION:
Never do this.
Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child's thighs. This applies belt force to the child's pelvic bones in a crash.
Safety Belt Extender
If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it.
But if a safety belt isn't long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It's free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don't let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.
Checking Your Restraint Systems
Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash
If you've had a crash, do you need new belts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new parts.
If you ever see a label on the driver's or the right front passenger's safety belt that says to replace the belt, be sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help protect you in a collision. You would see this label on the belt near the latch plate.
If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn't being used at the time of the collision.
If an air bag inflates, you'll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.
Section 2 Features and Controls
Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly
Windows |
| Engine Exhaust | ||
| ||||
Keys |
| Running Your Engine While You're Parked | ||
Front Doors |
| Locking Rear Axle (If Equipped) | ||
Rear Doors |
| |||
Door Locks |
| Horn | ||
Keyless Entry System (Option) |
| Tilt Wheel (If Equipped) | ||
Sliding Door |
| Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever | ||
Rear Hatch/Rear Doors |
| Exterior Lamps | ||
Theft |
| Interior Lamps | ||
PasslockR |
| Mirrors | ||
New Vehicle |
| Storage Compartments | ||
Ignition Positions |
| Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter | ||
Starting Your Engine |
| Sun Visors | ||
Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) |
| Accessory Power Outle | ||
Automatic Transmission Operation |
| HomeLinkR Transmitter (Option) | ||
Parking Brake |
| The Instrument Panel - Your | ||
Shifting Into PARK (P) |
|
| Information System | |
Shifting Out of PARK (P) |
| Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators | ||
Parking Over Things That Burn |
|
|
|
Windows
CAUTION:
Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.
Manual Windows
To open your manual windows, turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower your side door windows.
Power Windows (Option)
If you have power windows, the controls are located on each of the front doors. The driver's door also has a switch for the front passenger window. Your power windows will not work unless the ignition is in RUN or ACCESSORY, or unless retained accessory power is active. See ªRetained Accessory Powerº in the Index.
Express-Down Window
The driver's window switch also has an
be interrupted at any time by pressing the up arrow end of the switch. Lightly tap the switch to open the window slightly.
Keys
CAUTION:
Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed.
They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don't leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
This vehicle has one
When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer provides the owner with a pair of identical keys and a
The
NOTICE:
Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have extra keys.
If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call GM Roadside Assistance Center. See ªRoadside Assistanceº in the index.
Front Doors
To open a front door from the outside, grasp the handle and pull the door open.
To open a front door from the inside, pull the lever toward you and push the door open.
Rear Doors
If you have the ªDutch doors,º you must open the hatch first. See ªHatch Releaseº in the Index.
Rear doors can only be opened from the outside. Open the passenger's side rear door first. Grasp the handle and pull the door open.
Cargo Door Shown
To open the driver's side rear door, pull on the latch release handle located on the inside of the door.
To close the rear doors, close the driver's side door first. Check to make sure both doors are completely closed.
The rear doors have a check assembly to keep the doors from opening beyond 90 degrees.
To fully open the rear doors, push in on the clip and lift the check assembly up off the mounting bracket.
Do this on each door. Replace the check assemblies on the mounting brackets before closing the doors.
Door Locks
CAUTION:
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
DPassengers
chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren't locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive.
DYoung children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it.
DOutsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening.
There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
To unlock your door from the outside, use your key or remote keyless entry transmitter, if equipped. For more information, see ªKeyless Entry Systemº in the Index.
To lock the front doors and sliding side door from the inside, slide the manual lock levers down. To unlock the front doors and the sliding side door from the inside, slide the manual lock levers up. When the red mark on the lock lever is visible,
the door is unlocked.
Power Door Locks (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has power door locks, press the power door lock switch located on the door panel to lock or unlock all the doors at once.
The power door lock switch will lock or unlock the rear hatch and Dutch doors. See ªHatch Releaseº in the Index.
When a door is locked, the inside door handle will not open the door. This will help stop a door from being accidentally opened.
If the sliding door is open and you press the power door lock switch, the sliding door will not lock immediately. After you close the door, the system comes on and locks the sliding door in about five seconds.
When the key is in the ignition and the power door lock switch is pressed with a door open, all doors are locked while the driver's side door remains unlocked.
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
(If Equipped)
Your vehicle is equipped with an auto lock/unlock feature which enables you to program your power door locks.
Your vehicle left the factory programmed to have all the doors lock automatically when the shift lever is moved out of PARK (P). All of the doors will unlock when the shift lever is moved back into PARK (P). The following instructions detail how to program your door locks.
To enter the program mode you need to do the following:
1.Begin with the ignition in OFF. Then, pull back on the turn signal/multifunction lever all the way toward you and hold it while you perform the next step.
2.Turn your key to ON and OFF twice. Then, with the key in OFF, release the turn signal/multifunction lever. Once you do this, you will hear the lock switch lock and unlock.
3.You are now ready to program the automatic door locks. Select one of the following four programming options and follow the instructions. You will have thirty seconds to begin programming. If you exceed the thirty second limit, the locks will automatically lock and unlock to indicate that you have left the program mode. If this occurs, repeat the procedure beginning with Step 1. You can exit the program mode any time by turning the ignition to ON (the locks will automatically lock and unlock to indicate that you are leaving the program mode). If the lock/unlock switches are not pressed while in the programming mode, the auto lock/unlock setting will not be modified.
The following is a list of the available programming options:
DAll doors lock/Only the driver's door unlocks:
Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel once and then the unlock side once.
DAll doors lock/All doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel once, and then the unlock side twice.
DAll doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel once, and then the unlock side three times.
DNo doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press the lock side of the power lock switch on the door panel twice. This turns off the automatic lock feature.
For more information, see your dealer.
Leaving Your Vehicle
If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door.
Keyless Entry System (Option)
If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock your doors from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle.
Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This device complies with
(1)this device may not cause interference, and
(2)this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this:
DCheck the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.
DCheck the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.
DCheck to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions that follow.
DIf you're still having trouble, see your dealer or a qualified technician for service.
Operation
UNLOCK: When you press UNLOCK, the driver's door will unlock automatically, the parking lamps will
flash and the interior lights will go on.
If you press UNLOCK again within three seconds, all doors will unlock, the parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will go on.
LOCK: Press LOCK to lock all the doors. Press LOCK again within three seconds and the horn will chirp.
REAR 2X: When you press the REAR button twice within three seconds to unlock the rear hatch or cargo doors, the parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will go on. If the engine is running, the automatic transmission must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) for the REAR 2X button to operate.
Panic Alarm Button
When the panic button with the horn symbol on
the keyless entry transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to 30 seconds. This can be turned off by pressing the panic button again, waiting for 30 seconds, or starting the vehicle.
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle
Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have a maximum of four transmitters matched to it.
Battery Replacement
Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years.
You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won't work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it's probably time to change the battery.
NOTICE:
When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.
To replace the battery, do the following:
1.Insert a thin object like a dime to separate the bottom of the transmitter from the top.
2.Remove the battery and replace it with a new one,
making sure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing down. Use one PanasonicR
3.Snap the top and bottom together.
Sliding Door
To open the sliding side door, pull the handle toward the back and slide the door to the rear until it rests in the open position.
To close the sliding side door, pull the handle toward the front and slide the door forward.
Sliding Door Security Lock
Your vehicle is equipped with a sliding door security lock that helps to prevent young children or other passengers from opening the sliding door using the inside door handle.
The security door lock is located near the front of the sliding door.
There are two labels on your vehicle to remind you that you have this feature. One can be seen from the outside on your sliding door. It is located near the bottom of the door glass, toward the front of the door. The other label is located on the front of the sliding door, near the security door lock.
This feature prevents passengers from opening the sliding side door from the inside.
To use this feature, do the following:
1.Move the lever all the way up.
2.Close the door.
To open the sliding side door while the security lock is engaged, unlock the door and open it from the outside.
If you don't cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won't be able to open the sliding door from the inside. You should let adults and older children know how the security door lock works, and how to cancel the lock.
Canceling the Sliding Door Security Lock
To cancel the security lock, do the following:
1.Unlock the door and open it from the outside.
2.Move the lever all the way down.
CAUTION:
If your vehicle is facing downward on a steep grade (15 percent or more), the door may not stay open and could slam shut, possibly injuring someone. To make sure the door does not slam shut, be sure to hold it open until everyone is clear of the door, and only then allow it to slowly close.
Rear Hatch/Rear Doors
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to drive with the rear hatch or rear doors open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can't see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death.
If you must drive with the rear hatch or rear doors open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the rear hatch or rear doors:
DMake sure all other windows are shut.
DTurn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on anything but MAX A/C. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See ªComfort Controlsº in the Index.
DIf you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.
See ªEngine Exhaustº in the Index.
Hatch Release
You can use your key to unlock the hatch and all of the other doors from the outside. Insert the key into the hatch release button and turn it counterclockwise.
All of the doors will unlock.
You may also use the keyless entry system described earlier.
The hatch can be opened or closed without a key if the door lock system is unlocked.
To open the hatch, unlock it, then press the button and lift the handle located in the center of the door.
To lock the power lock system from the outside, insert the key in the hatch release button and turn it clockwise. All doors will lock.
Theft
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of
Key in the Ignition
If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it's an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves
When you park your vehicle and open the driver's door, you'll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transmission. Also remember to lock
the doors.
Parking at Night
Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.
Parking Lots
Even if you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it's still best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your key? Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, since there is no locking area in which to secure them. Lock all doors except the driver's.
PasslockR
Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock
Passlock is a passive
During normal operation, the SECURITY light will
go off approximately five seconds after the key is turned to RUN.
If the engine stalls and the SECURITY light flashes, wait about 10 minutes until the light stops flashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release the key from START as soon as the engine starts.
If the engine is running and the SECURITY light comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock system is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock at this time. You may also want to check the fuses
(see ªFuses and Circuit Breakersº in the Index). See your dealer for service.
In an emergency, call GM Roadside Assistance. See ªRoadside Assistanceº in the Index.
New Vehicle
NOTICE:
Your vehicle doesn't need an elaborate
DKeep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (805 km).
DDon't drive at any one speed
DAvoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren't yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this
DDon't tow a trailer during
Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition, you can turn it to five different positions.
A (ACCESSORY): This position lets you use things like the radio, power windows and windshield wipers when the engine is off. To get into ACCESSORY, push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key.
NOTICE:
Don't operate accessories in the ACCESSORY position for long periods of time. Prolonged operation of accessories in the ACCESSORY position could drain your battery and prevent you from starting your vehicle.
B (LOCK): This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transmission. It's a
NOTICE:
If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can't turn it, be sure you are using the correct key;
if so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. Turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.
C (OFF): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being towed).
D (RUN): This is the position for driving.
E (START): This position starts your engine.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
Your vehicle is equipped with a Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain features on your vehicle to continue to work up to 20 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF.
Your radio, power windows and overhead console will work when the ignition key is in RUN or ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from RUN to OFF, these features will continue to work for up to 20 minutes or until a door is opened.
Starting Your Engine
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won't start in any other position
NOTICE:
Don't try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the
transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
1.With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.
NOTICE:
Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to
be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about
15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.
2.If it doesn't start within 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while you hold the ignition key in START. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try.
When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0_F or
1.With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there up to
15 seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key.
2.If your engine still won't start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. When the engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five
or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.
NOTICE:
Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don't, your engine might not perform properly.
Fuel Regulator
You have a fuel regulator that shuts the fuel off when the engine reaches 5,600 rpm.
Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)
In very cold weather, 0_F
Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. 'At temperatures above 32_F (0_C), use of the coolant heater is not required.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1.Turn off the engine.
2.Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
The engine coolant heater cord is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment, near the power steering fluid reservoir.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded
CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded
4.Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don't, it could be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you'll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.
Automatic Transmission Operation
There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It's the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can't move easily.
CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
See ªShifting Into PARK (P)º in the Index.
If you're pulling a trailer, see ªTowing a Trailerº in the Index.
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.
NOTICE:
Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transmission. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see ªStuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snowº in the Index.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine
doesn't connect with the wheels. To restart when you're already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.
CAUTION:
Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is ªracingº (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don't shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.
NOTICE:
Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn't covered by your warranty.
DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you're:
DGoing less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down.
DGoing about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator pedal all the way down. You'll shift down to the next gear and have more power.
DRIVE (D) should be used for normal towing.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however it offers more power and lower fuel economy than DRIVE (D). You should use THIRD (3) when carrying a heavy load or driving on steep hills.
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.
If you manually select SECOND (2), the transmission will drive in second gear. You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.
FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift selector lever is put in FIRST (1), the
transmission won't shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slow enough.
NOTICE:
If your rear wheels won't turn, don't try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object.
You could damage your transmission.
Also, if you stop when going uphill, don't hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position
on a hill.
Tow/Haul Mode Button
Your vehicle is equipped with a tow/haul button. The button is located on the end of the column shift lever. You can use this feature to assist when towing or hauling a heavy load.
To select the tow/haul mode, press in the button. The TOW/HAUL light on the instrument panel cluster will come on. To go back to normal operation, press the button again. The indicator light on the instrument panel cluster will go out. See ªTow/Haul Modeº in the Index for more information.
Parking Brake
To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot.
Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.
To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the brake release lever located on the lower left side of the steering column.
NOTICE:
Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.
If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see ªTowing a Trailerº in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.
Shifting Into PARK (P)
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be
injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you're pulling a trailer, see ªTowing a Trailerº in the Index.
1.Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this:
D Pull the lever toward you.
D Move the lever up as far as it will go.
3.Turn the ignition key to LOCK.
4.Remove the key and take it with you. If you can remove the key from your ignition, your vehicle is in PARK (P).
Leaving Your Vehicle With the
Engine Running
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don't leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you've moved the shift lever to PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn't fully locked into PARK (P).
Torque Lock
If you are parking on a hill and you don't shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called ªtorque lock.º To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver's seat. To find out how, see ªShifting Into
PARK (P)º in the Index.
When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake.
If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission,
so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
Shifting Out of PARK (P)
Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See ªAutomatic Transmissionº in the Index.
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever
Then move the shift lever into the gear you want.
If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can't shift out of PARK (P), try this:
1.Turn the key to OFF.
2.Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4.
3.Shift to NEUTRAL (N).
4.Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you want.
5.Have the system fixed as soon as you can.
Parking Over Things That Burn
CAUTION:
Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don't park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.
Engine Exhaust
CAUTION:
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can't see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.
You might have exhaust coming in if:
DYour exhaust system sounds strange or different.
DYour vehicle gets rusty underneath.
DYour vehicle was damaged in a collision.
DYour vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris.
DRepairs weren't done correctly.
DYour vehicle or exhaust system had been modified improperly.
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:
DDrive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and
DHave your vehicle fixed immediately.
Running Your Engine While
You're Parked
It's better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.
CAUTION:
Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier Caution under ªEngine Exhaust.º
Also, idling in a
Another
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you've left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won't move. See ªShifting Into PARK (P)º in the Index.
If you're pulling a trailer, see ªTowing a Trailerº in the Index.
Locking Rear Axle (If Equipped)
If your vehicle has this feature, your locking rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and
the other does, this feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle.
All-Wheel Drive (Option)
If your vehicle has
This is like
You may experience a brief vehicle vibration upon acceleration when driving in slippery conditions. This is normal and is an indication that the
Horn
To sound the horn, press the horn symbol on the center of the steering wheel.
Tilt Wheel (If Equipped)
A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.
The lever that allows you to tilt the steering wheel is located on the left side of the steering column.
To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
The lever on the driver's side of the steering column includes the following:
DTurn and Lane Change Signals
DHeadlamp
D
DWindshield Wipers
DWindshield Washer
DCruise Control (Option)
For information on the exterior lamps, see ºExterior Lampsº later in this section.
Turn and Lane Change Signals
The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change.
To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.
An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will flash in the direction of the turn
or lane change.
To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.
As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows flash faster, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won't see your turn signal.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don't go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse (seeªFuses and Circuit Breakersº in the Index) and for
If you have a trailer towing option with added wiring for the trailer lamps, a different turn signal flasher is used. With this flasher installed, the signal indicator will flash even if a turn signal bulb is burned out. Check the front and rear turn signal lamps regularly to make sure they are working.
Turn Signal On Chime
If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each flash of the turn signal. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position.
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you. Then release it.
When the high beams are on, this indicator light located on the instrument panel cluster also will be on.
Flash-to-Pass
This feature lets you use your
It works even if your headlamps are in automatic.
To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, but not so far that you hear a click.
If your headlamps are in automatic or on low beam, your
Windshield Wipers
To operate the windshield wipers turn the band, located on the multifunction lever, upward or downward.
MIST: Turn the band to MIST for a single wiping cycle. Hold it there until the windshield wipers start, then let it go. The wipers will stop after one wipe. If you want more wipes, hold the band on mist longer.
OFF: Turn the band to turn off the windshield wipers.
LOW (Low Speed): Turn the band to LOW for steady wiping at low speed.
HIGH (High Speed): Turn the band to HIGH for steady wiping at high speed.
DELAY:Turn the band to one of the five delay settings located between OFF and LOW, to choose the delayed wiping cycle. The closer the band is turned to OFF, the shorter the delay will be. For fewer wipes choose a setting closer to LOW. Use this setting for light rain and snow.
Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they're frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become worn or damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.
Windshield Washer
There is a paddle marked with the windshield washer symbol at the top of the malfunction lever. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, press the paddle.
The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed.
CAUTION:
In freezing weather, don't use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.
The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed.
Rear Window Washer/Wiper (Option)
You control the rear window washer/wiper using a switch located on the instrument panel, next to the audio system.
To turn the wiper on, slide the switch all the way up to ON.
For delay wiping, slide the switch up to the center position next to the word DELAY on the rear wiper control. The wiper will cycle every nine seconds.
To wash the window, push in on the switch. Window washer fluid will continue to spray until the switch is released. The wiper will continue with three more wipes and then return to the setting that was chosen before the lever was pushed.
Move the switch to OFF to turn off the rear window washer.
The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as the front windshield washer. If the fluid level is low in the washer bottle, you may not be able to wash your rear window. If you can wash your windshield, but not your rear window, check the fluid level.
Cruise Control (Option)
With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h).
When you apply your brakes, the cruise control shuts off.
CAUTION:
DCruise control can be dangerous where you can't drive safely at a steady speed. So, don't use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.
DCruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don't use cruise control on slippery roads.
Setting Cruise Control
CAUTION:
If you leave your cruise control switch on when you're not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don't want to.
You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control.
1.Move the cruise control switch to ON.
2.Get up to the speed you want.
3.Press in the SET button at the end of the lever and release it.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Resuming a Set Speed
Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don't need to reset it.
Once you're going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON
to R/A briefly.
You'll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there.
If you hold the switch at R/A, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don't hold the switch at R/A.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control
There are two ways to go to a higher speed:
DUse the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Press the button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You'll now cruise at the higher speed.
DMove the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A briefly. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about
1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control
There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control:
DPress the button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it.
DTo slow down in very small amounts, press the button briefly. Each time you do this, you'll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.
Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control
Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.
Using Cruise Control on Hills
How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may want to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don't use cruise control on steep hills.
Ending Cruise Control
There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:
DStep lightly on the brake pedal.
DMove the cruise switch to OFF.
Erasing Speed Memory
When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased.
Exterior Lamps
The exterior lamp control is located on the driver's side of the instrument panel.
The exterior lamp control has three positions:
(Off): Turning the control to this position turns off all lamps except the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).
(Parking Lamps):Turning the control to this position turns on the parking lamps, together with the following:
DSidemarker Lamps
DTaillamps
DLicense Plate Lamps
DInstrument Panel Lights
DAshtray Lamp
(Headlamps): Turning the control to this position turns on the headlamps, together with the previously listed lamps and lights.
Automatic Headlamp System
When it is dark enough outside, your automatic headlamp system will turn on your headlamps at the normal brightness along with other lamps such as the taillamps, sidemarker, parking lamps and the instrument panel lights. The radio lights will also be dim.
Your vehicle is equipped with a light sensor on the top of the instrument panel in the defroster grille. Be sure it is not covered, or the system will be on whenever the ignition is on.
The system may also turn on your headlamps when driving through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather or a tunnel. This is normal.
There is a delay in the transition between the daytime and nighttime operation of the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) and the automatic headlamp systems so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system. The DRL and automatic headlamp system will only be affected when the light sensor sees a change in lighting lasting longer than
the delay.
To idle your vehicle with the automatic headlamp system off, set the parking brake while the ignition is off. Then start your vehicle. The automatic headlamp system will stay off until you release the parking brake.
You may be able to turn off your automatic headlamp system. SeeªDaytime Running Lamps (DRL)º later in this section for more information.
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamps when you need them.
Lamps On Reminder
A reminder tone will sound when your headlamps or parking lamps are manually turned on and your ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY. To disable the tone, turn the instrument panel brightness thumbwheel all the way down. In the automatic mode, the headlamps turn off once the ignition key is in OFF.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully functional daytime running lamps are required on all vehicles first sold in Canada.
The DRL system will make your headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when the following conditions are met:
DThe ignition is on,
Dthe exterior lamp control is OFF.
Dthe automatic transmission is not in PARK (P),
Dthe light sensor determines it is daytime and
Dthe parking brake is released.
When the DRL are on, only your DRL lamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won't be on. Your instrument panel won't be lit up either.
When it begins to get dark, the automatic headlamp system will switch from DRL to the headlamps or the last chosen headlamp setting that was used.
To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, put the transmission in PARK (P). The DRL will stay off until you shift out of PARK (P).
The following does not apply to vehicles first sold in Canada.
When necessary, you may turn off the automatic headlamp system and the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) feature by following the steps below:
DTurn the ignition to RUN.
DPress the DOME OVERRIDE button four times within six seconds. After the fourth press of the button, a chime will sound informing you that the system is off.
DTo return to the automatic mode, push the DOME OVERRIDE button four times within six seconds (the chime will sound), or turn the ignition to OFF and then to RUN again.
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.
Interior Lamps
Instrument Panel Brightness Control
This feature controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights.
The thumbwheel for this feature is located to the right of the exterior lamps control.
Turn the thumbwheel up to brighten the lights or down to dim them.
When the thumbwheel is moved to the first position, the radio display and transmission selection display will go to full intensity. The instrument panel cluster will be dimly lit.
Moving the thumbwheel up to the next position will activate the interior dome lamps.
Exit Lighting
With exit lighting, the interior lamps will come on when you remove the key from the ignition. The lights will not come on if the DOME OVERRIDE button is pressed in.
Illuminated Entry
Your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated entry feature.
When a door is opened, the dome lamps will come on if the DOME OVERRIDE button is in the out position.
When all the doors are closed, the lamps will stay on for a short period of time and will then go out. If the DOME OVERRIDE button is pressed in, the lamps will not come on.
Dome Lamps
The dome lamps will come on when you open a door, except with the liftgate glass (if equipped).
You can also turn the dome lamps on by turning the thumbwheel, located next to the exterior lamp control, all the way up. In this position, the dome lamps will remain on whether a door is opened or closed.
You can use the DOME OVERRIDE button, located near the exterior lamp control, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically when a door is opened, or to remain off. To turn the lamps off, press the button into the in position, the dome lamps will remain off when a
door is open. To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the button again and return it to the out position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open a door.
Battery Run-Down Protection
This feature shuts off the dome, courtesy, vanity, reading and glove box lights if they are left on for more than
20 minutes when the ignition is off. This will keep your battery from running down.
If the battery
DShut off all lamps and close all doors, or
Dturn the ignition key to RUN.
Mirrors
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror
You can adjust the mirror for day or night driving. Press the tab forward (away from you) for day driving. Pull the tab back (toward you) for night driving.
Outside Manual Adjust Rearview Mirrors
Adjust your outside rearview mirrors so you can see a little of the side of your vehicle and the area beside and behind your vehicle, from a comfortable driving position.
You can fold the mirrors inward before entering a car wash. Pull the mirrors toward the vehicle. Push the mirrors back out when finished. After pushing the mirror out, the adjustment will be maintained.
Power Remote Control Rearview Mirrors
(If Equipped)
To adjust the outside rearview mirror, move the selector switch in the middle of the control to L for the driver's side mirror or to R for the passenger's side mirror. Then use the arrows located on the
Convex Outside Mirror
Your passenger's side mirror is convex. A convex mirror's surface is curved so you can see more from the driver's seat.
CAUTION:
A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.
Storage Compartments
Your front storage compartment/glove box is at the center of the engine cover. To open the compartment, press the two tabs together and pull.
If you have an optional sliding tray storage compartment, it is located under the front passenger's seat. To open the compartment, move the latch in the top handle and pull the tray forward.
If you have rear storage compartments, pull up on the lid to open the cover.
Overhead Console (Option)
There is also a map/storage pocket on the passenger's side of the engine cover console.
The overhead console includes reading lamps, a compartment for a garage door opener, a trip computer, a temperature and compass display, and a storage compartment for sunglasses.
The reading lamps, trip computer, temperature and compass display will work when the ignition is in RUN, ACCESSORY or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See ªRetained Accessory Powerº in the Index.
Reading Lamps
Press the button near each lamp to turn the reading lamps on and off.
The lamps can also be swiveled to point in the direction you want.
Installing a Garage Door Opener
If you have a garage door opener, the front overhead compartment can be used to conveniently store the opener.
1.To install the garage door opener, first open the compartment door by pressing the latch forward.
2.Peel the protective backing from the hook and loop patch.
3.Press it firmly to the back of your garage
door opener, as close to the center of the opener as possible.
4.Center the garage door opener activation button over the console door button and press the opener firmly into place.
The pegs inside the compartment door are used to make sure
the button on the compartment door will contact the control button on the garage door opener.
5.Add one peg at a time until the garage door opener operates with the compartment door closed when you press the button.
6. Now, with the compartment door closed, press the button again to make sure the garage door opener operates properly.
With the garage door opener positioned properly and the right number of pegs in place, you should only have to press the button slightly to operate the opener. Adjust the position of the garage door opener and add or remove pegs as needed, until the opener operates properly.
Your vehicle may be equipped with a HomeLinkR Transmitter. For more information, see ªHomeLinkR Transmitterº in the Index.
Driver Information System (If Equipped)
This system displays the outside air temperature, compass direction and trip information in the overhead console.
US/MET (United States/Metric): The US/MET (United States/metric) button allows you to switch the display between the English and metric system.
MODE: The MODE button can be used to toggle between three modes of operation: OFF, COMP/TEMP and TRIP.
COMP/TEMP (Compass/Temperature): This display provides the outside temperature and one of eight compass readings to indicate the direction the vehicle is facing.
Before you turn on the ignition and move the vehicle, the temperature indicated will be the last outside temperature recorded with the ignition on. If the outside temperature is 37_F (3_C) or lower, the display will toggle between the word ICE and the current temperature every eight seconds. This is a warning to the driver that road conditions may be icy, and that appropriate precautions should be taken.
The compass is
need to be manually set. However, if C (Calibration) is displayed, the compass will need to be calibrated. You may also place the compass in a noncalibrated mode by pressing and holding the MODE and US/MET buttons simultaneously while in the COMP/TEMP mode. After about 10 seconds, the compass will display C and you can release the buttons. Drive the vehicle in a complete 360_ circle three times at a speed of less than 5 mph
(8 km/h), and the compass will function normally. Once the calibration is complete, the display will return to a compass reading.
Variance is the difference between magnetic north and geographic north. In some areas, the difference between the two can be great enough to cause false compass readings. If this happens, follow these instructions to set the variance for your particular location:
1.Find your location on the zone map. Record your zone number.
2.Press and hold both the MODE and the US/MET buttons in the COMP/TEMP mode.
3.After five seconds, the compass will acknowledge the variation mode by displaying the current zone number. When it does, release both buttons.
4.Press US/MET until your zone number appears on the display.
5.Press MODE to enter your zone number. Your variance is now set and the display will return to the COMP/TEMP mode.
TRIP: Once in the TRIP mode, pressing the MODE button will take you through the following TRIP functions:
DAVG ECON (Average Economy): The average fuel economy since the last reset is displayed.
DINST ECON (Instantaneous Economy):
Instantaneous fuel economy for the last second of driving is displayed.
DRANGE: The display indicates the estimated distance that can be travelled with the remaining fuel in the tank, based on the fuel economy for the last few hours of driving.
DFUEL USED: The fuel used since the last reset is displayed.
DAVG SPEED (Average Speed): The average speed since the last reset is displayed.
To reset the trip computer, press the MODE and US/MET buttons simultaneously for at least two seconds. All functions will be displayed briefly once the system is reset. Reset can only be performed in the AVG ECON, FUEL USED and AVG SPEED modes. All three modes are reset simultaneously.
Sunglasses Storage Compartment
The overhead console has a sunglasses storage compartment.
Convenience Net (Option)
You may have a convenience net in the rear of your vehicle to help keep small loads, like grocery bags, in place during sharp turns or quick stops and starts.
The net is not designed for larger, heavier items.
You can unhook the net so that it will lie flat when you're not using it.
Luggage Carrier (Option)
If you have a luggage carrier, you can load things on top of your vehicle.
The luggage carrier has slats, side rails and crossrails attached to the roof to secure cargo.
Be sure the cargo is properly loaded. Follow these guidelines:
DCarrying small, heavy loads on the roof is not recommended.
DTie the load to the side rails. Use the crossrails only to keep the load from sliding.
DIf you need to carry long items, tie the load to the side rails. Also tie the load to the bumpers. Do not tie the load so tightly that the crossrails or side rails are damaged.
DAfter moving the crossrails, be sure to tighten all the slider screws.
DFor the purpose of wind noise reduction, locate the front and rear crossrails in line with the two center supports.
NOTICE:
Loading cargo that weighs more than 200 lbs. (91 kg) on the luggage carrier may damage your vehicle. When you carry large things, never let them hang over the rear or the sides of your vehicle. Load your cargo so that it rests on the slats and does not scratch or damage the vehicle. Put the cargo against the side rails and fasten it securely to the luggage carrier. Put the main weight as far forward as you can.
Don't exceed the maximum vehicle capacity when loading your vehicle. For more information on vehicle capacity and loading, see ªLoading Your Vehicleº in the Index.
To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you're driving, check now and then to make sure the luggage carrier and cargo are still securely fastened.
Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter
The cigarette lighter is on the left of the engine cover console.
To use the lighter, press it in all the way and let go. When it's done heating, it will pop back out by itself.
NOTICE:
Don't hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating. If you do, it won't be able to back away from the heating element when it's ready. That can make it overheat, damaging the lighter and the heating element.
NOTICE:
When using the cigarette lighter as an accessory power outlet, maximum electrical load must not exceed 20 amps. Always turn off any electrical equipment when not in use. Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods will drain your battery.
The front ashtray is located above the passenger's side front cupholder. To remove the front ashtray, open it and gently pull it slightly past its stop.
To remove the ashtray on the sliding door, open it, then press down on the inside tab and pull it out.
You may have another ashtray on the driver's sidewall. Press the right side to turn the ashtray around for use. To remove the ashtray, open it and gently pull it off the hinge.
NOTICE:
Don't put papers and other things that burn into your ashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage.
Sun Visors
To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them from side to side. Your visors may have an extension that can be pulled out for additional glare protection.
Visor Vanity Mirror (If Equipped)
Some visors have mirrors built in, with or without lamps. Just lift the mirror cover on each visor to turn the lamps on.
Accessory Power Outlet
You can plug accessory electrical equipment into an accessory power outlet. Just pull on the outlet cover to remove it and follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical equipment that you install.
The accessory power outlet is located on the passenger's side of the front storage compartment.
These circuits are protected by a fuse and have maximum current levels.
Certain power accessory plugs may not be compatible to the power accessory outlet and could result in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the power accessory plugs.
NOTICE:
When using the accessory power outlets, maximum electrical load must not exceed 25 amps. Always turn off any electrical
equipment when not in use. Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods will drain your battery.
NOTICE:
Power outlets are designed for accessory plugs only. Do not hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug. Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty.
HomeLinkR Transmitter (Option)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This device complies with
(1)this device may not cause interference, and
(2)this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Changes and modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
Programming the Transmitter
Do not use the HomeLink Transmitter with any garage door opener that does not have the ªstop and reverseº feature. This includes any garage door opener model manufactured before April 1, 1982.
Be sure that people and objects are clear of the garage door you are programming.
It is recommended that a new battery be installed in your
Your vehicle's engine should be turned off while programming the transmitter. Follow these steps to program up to three channels:
1.Decide which one of the three channels (one of the HomeLink buttons) you want to program.
2.Press and hold the desired button on HomeLink through step 3.
3.When the HomeLink indicator light begins to blink slowly (this may take up to 30 seconds), hold the
If you have trouble programming the HomeLink, make sure that you have followed the directions exactly as described and that the battery in the
Be sure to keep the original
Training a Garage Door Opener with a ªRolling Codeº Feature (If Equipped)
If you have not previously programmed the
1.Find the ªLearnº or ªSmartº button on the garage door opener motor head unit. The exact location and color will vary by garage door opener brand. If you have difficulty finding the Learn or Smart button, refer to your garage door opener owner's manual or
contact the manufacturer of HomeLink at
Because of the steps involved, it may be helpful to have another person assist in programming the transmitter.
2.Press the Learn or Smart button on the garage
door opener motor head unit. An indicator light will begin to flash when the motor head unit enters the training mode.
Following this step, you have 30 seconds to start Step 3.
3.Return to HomeLink in your vehicle and firmly press and release the programmed HomeLink button three times.
The
If after following these instructions, you still have problems training the garage door opener, contact the manufacturer of HomeLink at
Canadian Programming
Canadian Owners: During programming, the
Operating the HomeLink Transmitter
Press and hold the appropriate button on HomeLink for at least half of a second. The indicator light will come on while the signal is being transmitted.
Erasing Channels
To erase all three programmed channels, hold down the two outside buttons until the indicator light begins to flash (approximately 20 seconds). Release both buttons.
Resetting Defaults
To reset HomeLink to default settings, hold down the two outside buttons until the indicator light begins to flash (approximately 20 seconds). Continue to hold both buttons until the HomeLink indicator light turns off and then release both buttons.
Accessories
Accessories for the HomeLink Transmitter are available from the manufacturer of the unit. If you would like additional information, please contact the manufacturer of HomeLink at
The Instrument Panel - Your Information System
The main components of your instrument panel are the following:
A. | Exterior Lamp Control | K. Rear Washer/Wiper Switch (Option) |
B. | Instrument Panel Brightness Thumbwheel | L. Front Ashtray |
C. | Multifunction Lever | M. Dome Override Button |
D. | Hazard Warning Flasher Button | N. Hood Release |
E. | Transmission Shift Lever | O. Cigarette Lighter |
F. | Ignition Switch | P. Audio System |
G. | Rear Defogger Button (Option) | Q. Front Storage Compartment |
H. | Comfort Controls | R. Cupholders/Storage Tray |
I. | Rear A/C Control (Option) | S. Accessory Power Outlets |
J. | Rear Heater Control (Option) |
|
Instrument Panel Cluster
Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You'll know how fast you're going, about how much fuel you've used, and many other things you'll need to know to drive safely and economically.
United States version shown, Canada similar
Speedometer and Odometer
Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada).
Your odometer is tamper resistant. The digital odometer will read 999,999 if someone tries to turn it back.
You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. If the new one can be set to the mileage total of the old odometer, then it must be. But if it can't, then it's set at zero, and a label must be put on the driver's door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed.
Trip Odometer
The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero.
The trip odometer will appear in place of your regular odometer when you press the TRIP button.
To reset the trip odometer, press and hold the TRIP button. To change back to the regular odometer, press the TRIP button again.
Warning Lights, Gages
and Indicators
This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you to locate them.
Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury.
Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle's functions. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on briefly when you start the engine just to let you know they're working. If you are familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed when this happens.
Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle's functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let you know when there's a problem with your vehicle.
When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual's advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly
Safety Belt Reminder Light
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a tone will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver's safety belt is already buckled.
The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 20 seconds, then it will flash for about 55 seconds.
If the driver's belt is already buckled, neither the tone nor the light will come on.
Air Bag Readiness Light
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG or the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag's electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensor, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see ªAir Bagº in the Index.
This light will come on when you start your vehicle, and it will flash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready.
If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the vehicle or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away.
CAUTION:
If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle, it means the air bag system may not be working properly. The air bags in your vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or they could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle serviced right away if the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle.
The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn't come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
Charging System Indicator Light
The charging system light will come on briefly when you turn the ignition on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you the light is working.
Then it should go out once the engine is running. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system.
It could indicate that you have a loose accessory drive belt, or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery.
If you must drive a short distance with the light on, be certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and heater/air conditioner.
Voltmeter
When your engine is not running, but the ignition is on (in the RUN position), the gage shows your battery's state of charge in DC volts.
When the engine is running, the gage shows the condition of the charging system. Readings between the low and high warning zones indicate the normal operating range.
Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operating in the vehicle and the engine is left at an idle for an extended period. This condition is normal since the charging system is not able to provide full power at engine idle. As engine speeds are increased, this condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging system to create maximum power.
You can only drive for a short time with the readings in either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories.
Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Brake System Warning Light
When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on when you set your parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking brake doesn't release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fully released,
it means you have a brake problem.
Your vehicle's hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn't working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well.
If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.
This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN.
If it doesn't come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there's a problem.
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See ªTowing Your Vehicleº in the Index.
CAUTION:
Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on after you've pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
With the
If the light stays on, or comes on when you're driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn't on, you still have brakes, but you don't have
The
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature.
If the gage pointer moves to the red area, your engine is too hot!
It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
See ªEngine Overheatingº in the Index.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light in the United States or Check Engine Light in Canada)
United States | Canada |
Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems.
This system is called OBD II
sound to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.
NOTICE:
If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.
NOTICE:
Modifications made to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle's emission controls and may cause the SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by your warranty. This may also result in a failure to pass a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test.
This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn't come on, have it repaired.
This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways:
DLight Flashing
DLight On Steady
If the Light Is Flashing
The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle:
DReducing vehicle speed.
DAvoiding hard accelerations.
DAvoiding steep uphill grades.
DIf you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.
If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see ªIf the Light Is On Steadyº following.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see ªIf the Light Is On Steadyº following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service.
If the Light Is On Steady
You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following:
Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle?
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. See ªFilling Your Tankº in the Index. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere.
A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off.
Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water?
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.
Have you recently changed brands of fuel?
If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See ªFuelº in the Index. Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after
stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on.
If you experience one or more of these conditions, change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.
If none of the above steps have made the light turn off, have your dealer or qualified service center check the vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
Some state/provincial and local governments have or may begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle registration.
Here are some things you need to know in order to help your vehicle pass an inspection:
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light is on or not working properly.
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD
battery has run down. The diagnostic system is designed to evaluate critical emission control systems during normal driving. This may take several days of routine driving. If you have done this and your vehicle still does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD system readiness, see your dealer or qualified service center to prepare the vehicle for inspection.
Oil Pressure Gage
The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running.
Canadian vehicles indicate pressure in kPa (kilopascals). Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the low pressure zone indicate the normal operating range.
A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a dangerously low oil level or other problems causing low oil pressure.
CAUTION:
Don't keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned.
Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced.
NOTICE:
Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty.
Security Light
This light will come on briefly when you turn the key to START.
The light will stay on until the engine starts. If the light flashes, the PasslockR System has entered a tamper mode. If the vehicle fails to start, see ªPasslockº in
the Index.
If the light comes on continuously while driving and stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock System. Your vehicle will not be protected by Passlock, and you should see your GM dealer.
Service AWD Light (If Equipped)
This light should come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, as a check to show you it is working.
The SERVICE AWD light comes on to indicate that there may be a problem with the drive system and service is required. Malfunctions can be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent, which may prevent serious damage to the vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing a malfunction.
Tow/Haul Light
This light should come on when the tow/haul mode has been selected.
For more information, see ªTow/Haul Modeº in the Index.
Check Gages Light
This light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine.
If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your various gages to see if they are in the warning zones.
Fuel Gage
United States | Canada |
The fuel gage tells you approximately how much fuel you have remaining when the ignition is on.
When the gage first indicates empty, you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more fuel as soon as possible.
Here are things some owners ask about. None of these indicate a problem with your fuel gage:
DAt the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the gage reads full.
DThe fuel tank will take either a little more or a little less fuel to fill up than the gage shows.
DThe gage moves a little when you turn a corner or speed up.
DThe gage doesn't go back to empty when you turn off the ignition.
Low Fuel Light
The LOW FUEL light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine.
This light comes on when the fuel tank is low on fuel. To turn it off, add fuel to the fuel tank. See ªFuelº in the Index.
Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
In this section, you'll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.
Comfort Controls |
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Heating System |
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Heating/Air Conditioning System |
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| Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped) | |
(If Equipped) |
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Rear Heating System (Option) |
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| Compact Disc Player with Radio Data | |
Rear Air Conditioning System (Option) |
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| System (RDS) and Automatic Tone Control | |
Air Conditioning |
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| (If Equipped) | |
Heating |
| Rear Seat Audio (If Equipped) | ||
Defrosting |
| Remote Compact Disc Player (If Equipped) | ||
Rear Window Defogger (Option) |
| Theft Deterrent Feature (If Equipped) | ||
Ventilation System |
| Theft Deterrent Feature RDS Radios | ||
Audio Systems |
|
| (If Equipped) | |
Setting the Clock for Systems with |
| Understanding Radio Reception | ||
| SET Button |
| Tips About Your Audio System | |
Setting the Clock for Systems without |
| Care of Your Cassette Tape Player | ||
| Radio Data System |
| Care of Your Compact Discs | |
Setting the Clock for Systems with |
| Care of Your Compact Disc Player | ||
| Radio Data System |
| Fixed Mast Antenna | |
|
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Comfort Controls
This section tells you how to make your air system work for you. Your comfort control system with air conditioning uses
With these systems, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has a
Heating System
If your vehicle does not have air conditioning, your heater controls will look like this.
Fan Knob
The fan know is located on the left of the control panel. This control has four positions. To increase airflow, turn the knob toward HI. To decrease airflow, move it toward LO.
Temperature Knob
This knob is next to the fan knob. It controls the temperature of the air flowing into your vehicle. Turn the knob clockwise for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise for cooler air.
Function Knob
This knob is on the right of the temperature knob.
The function knob allows you to choose the direction of air delivery.
OFF: This setting turns the system off.
(Vent): The air comes out at the vents on your instrument panel.
(Floor): Most of the air comes out near the floor. The rest comes out from the defroster vents under the windshield and at the front side windows.
(Blend): With this setting, the outside air comes out both the floor ducts and defroster vents. Adjust the temperature knob for warmer or cooler air.
DEF (Defrost): This setting operates the defroster. Most of the air comes out near the windshield, with some going to the floor ducts and front side windows.
Heating/Air Conditioning System
(If Equipped)
If your vehicle has air conditioning, your heating/air conditioning controls will look like this.
Fan Knob
The fan knob is located on the left of the control panel. This knob has four positions. To increase airflow,
turn the knob toward HI. To decrease airflow, move it toward LO.
Temperature Knob
This knob is next to the fan knob. It controls the temperature of the air flowing into your vehicle. Turn the knob clockwise for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise for cooler air.
Function Knob
This knob is located on the right side of the temperature knob. The function knob allows you to choose the direction of air delivery.
OFF: This setting turns the system off.
MAX A/C (Maximum Air Conditioning): This setting cools the air the fastest, by recirculating the inside air.
A/C (Air Conditioning): This setting brings in outside air, cools and dehumidifies it.
(Vent): The air comes out at the vents on your instrument panel. The air conditioning compressor will not run in this position. Adjust the temperature knob for warmer or cooler air.
(Floor): Most of the air comes out near the floor. The rest comes out from the defroster vents under the windshield and at the front side windows.
(Blend): With this setting, the outside air comes out of both the floor ducts and defroster vents. Adjust the temperature knob for warmer or cooler air. The air conditioning compressor may operate in this setting to dehumidify the air.
DEF (Defrost): This setting operates the defroster. Most of the air comes out near the windshield, with some going to the floor ducts and front side windows. The air conditioning compressor may operate in this setting to dehumidify the air.
Rear Heating System (Option) |
| Rear Air Conditioning System (Option) |
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You may have the optional rear heater. The
You may have rear air conditioning. The rear air conditioning thumbwheel is located to the right of the heater controls. Turn the thumbwheel toward HIGH for higher airflow in the rear area. Turn the switch to OFF to turn the system off.
Air Conditioning
Before using your vehicle's air conditioning, open the windows to clear the vehicle of hot air. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down. Then keep your windows closed for the air conditioner to work at its best.
You can use MAX A/C with the temperature knob in the blue area when it's really hot outside and you need to cool the inside air quickly. MAX A/C lets in only a little air from the outside.
If you first use MAX A/C, you can then use A/C with the temperature knob in the blue area as soon as the vehicle has cooled down, so outside air will be going through your vehicle.
If your vehicle has rear air conditioning, setting it on LOW may enhance the front air conditioning performance by allowing trapped refrigerant in the rear lines to circulate.
The rear air conditioning system will only send cooled air if the front system is on. It can still be used to circulate air, even if the front system is off.
When the air conditioning, defrost or blend is on, you may notice a slight increase or decrease in engine speed, due to compressor operation. This is normal because the system is designed to cycle the compressor on and off to maintain the desired temperature.
Heating
On cold days, use the floor setting with the temperature knob in the red area. Outside air will be brought in through the floor ducts. The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it.
If you use the optional engine coolant heater before starting your engine, your heating system will produce warmer air faster to heat the passenger compartment in cold weather. See ªEngine Coolant Heaterº in the Index.
Defrosting
Use defrost to remove fog or ice from the windshield quickly in extremely cold conditions. The temperature knob should be in the red area and the fan control toward high. The air conditioning compressor may operate in this setting to dehumidify the air.
The blend setting is useful for cold weather with a large number of passengers or very humid conditions to help keep the windshield clear.
Rear Window Defogger (Option)
If your vehicle has this option, the rear window will have lines running across the glass. These lines heat your window.
For best results, clear the window of as much snow or ice as possible before using the rear window defogger.
To turn on the rear window defogger, find the button located to the left of the heater controls with the defog symbol on it.
Press the button until the light comes on, then release it.
The rear window defogger will only work when the ignition is in RUN.
You can turn the defogger off at any time by pressing the button again. The defogger will shut itself off after several minutes so that the glass does not get too hot.
If the window still isn't clear, turn the defogger on again.
Do not attach a temporary vehicle license, tape or decals across the defogger grid on the rear window.
NOTICE:
Don't use a razor blade or something else sharp on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage the defogger and the repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Ventilation System
For mild outside temperatures when little heating or cooling is needed, use the vent setting to direct outside air through your vehicle. Air will flow through the instrument panel vents.
Your vehicle's
or the air conditioning compressor is running.
Your vehicle has air vents near the center and on the sides of the instrument panel that allow you to adjust the direction and the amount of airflow inside the vehicle. Move the dial on the vent up or down to direct airflow to your preference. Increase or reduce the amount of airflow by opening and closing the louvers. The vents turn to direct the airflow from side to side.
When you close a vent, it will increase the flow of air coming out of any vents that are open.
If you have rear heating or rear air conditioning, you will have adjustable vents in the rear of the vehicle to help direct the airflow. The rear air conditioning vents are located in the headliner at the rear of the vehicle.
The rear heating vents are located next to the second and third seat on the driver's side of the vehicle, near the floor. You can move the vents to direct the flow of air, or close the vents altogether. When you close a vent, it will increase the flow of air coming out of any vents that are open.
Ventilation Tips
DKeep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.
DWhen you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the fan to HI for a few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.
DKeep the air path under the front seats clear of objects. This helps air to circulate throughout your vehicle.
Audio Systems
Your audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your audio system can do and how to operate all of its controls to be sure you're getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it.
Setting the Clock for Systems with the Set Button
Press SET. Within five seconds, press and hold the right SEEK arrow until the correct minute appears on the display. Press and hold the left SEEK arrow until the correct hour appears on the display.
Setting the Clock for Systems without Radio Data System
Press and hold HR until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold MN until the correct minute appears on the display. To display the clock with the ignition off, press RECALL or HR/MN and the time will be displayed for a few seconds. There is an initial
Setting the Clock for Systems with Radio Data System
Press and hold the HR button until the correct hour appears. AM or PM will appear on the display for morning or afternoon hours. Press and hold the MIN button until the correct minute appears. The clock may be set with the ignition on or off.
To set the clock to the time of an FM station broadcasting Radio Data System (RDS) information, press and hold the HR and MIN buttons at the same time for two seconds until UPDATED and the clock symbol appears on the display. If the time is not available from the station, NO UPDAT will appear on the display instead.
RDS clock time is broadcast once a minute. Once you have tuned to an RDS broadcast station, it may take a few minutes for your clock time to update.
AM-FM Stereo
Playing the Radio
Power: Turn the VOLUME knob clockwise to turn the system on and counterclockwise to turn the system off.
VOLUME: Turn this knob clockwise to increase volume. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume.
RECALL: Pressing this knob will display the station being played or it will display the clock. Clock display is available with the ignition turned off.
Finding a Station
TUNE: Turn this knob to tune in radio stations.
SEEK 
: Press the right or left arrow to seek to the next or previous station and stay there.
SCAN 
: Press both SCAN arrows. SCAN will appear on the display. The radio will scan to the next station, play for a few seconds, then scan to the
next station. Press the RECALL knob or both SCAN arrows to stop scanning.
Setting Preset Stations
The four numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 21 stations (seven AM, seven FM1 and seven FM2) by performing the following steps:
1.Turn the radio on.
2.Press
3.Tune in the desired station.
4.Press SET. SET will appear on the display.
5.Press one of the four pushbuttons within five seconds. Whenever you press that numbered pushbutton, the station you set will return.
6.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
In addition to the four stations already set, up to three more stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining pushbuttons at the same time and by performing the following steps:
1.Tune in the desired station.
2.Press SET. SET will appear on the display.
3.Press two adjoining pushbuttons at the same time, within five seconds. Whenever you press the same two pushbuttons, the station you set will return.
4.Repeat the steps for each pair of pushbuttons.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
BASS: Slide this lever up or down to increase or decrease bass.
TREB (Treble): Slide this lever up or down to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
BAL (Balance): Turn the control ring behind the upper knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
FADE: Turn the control ring behind the lower knob to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)
Playing the Radio
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off.
VOL (Volume): Turn this knob clockwise to increase volume. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. The knob is capable of rotating continuously.
SCV
RECALL: Pressing this button will display the station being played or it will display the clock. Clock display is available with the ignition turned off.
Finding a Station
AM FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display will show your selection.
TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you're not using it.
SEEK 
: Press the right or left arrow to seek to the next station or previous station and stay there. The radio will seek to stations with a strong signal only. The sound will mute while seeking.
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for two seconds until SCAN appears on the display. The radio will scan to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning. The radio will scan to stations with a strong signal only. The sound will mute while scanning.
P.SCAN (Preset Scan): Press this button to scan through your favorite stations stored on your pushbuttons. P.SCAN will appear on the display. The radio will scan to the first preset station stored on your pushbuttons, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press this button again or one of the pushbuttons to stop scanning. The channel number (P1 through P6) will appear with the frequency. The
radio will scan preset stations with a strong signal only. The sound will mute while scanning.
Setting Preset Stations
The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps:
1.Turn the radio on.
2.Press AM FM to select AM, FM1 or FM2.
3.Tune in the desired station.
4.Press AUTO TONE to select the setting you prefer.
5.Press and hold one of the six pushbuttons. The sound will mute. When it returns, release the pushbutton. Whenever you press that numbered pushbutton, the station you set will return and the tone you selected will be automatically selected for that pushbutton.
6.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase bass and counterclockwise to decrease bass.
TREB (Treble): Press this knob lightly so it
extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase treble and counterclockwise to decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you're not using them.
AUTO TONE: This feature allows you to choose bass and treble equalization settings designed for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock and classical stations.
Each time you press the AUTO TONE button, this feature will switch to one of these program types.
To return the bass and treble to the manual mode, either press and release the AUTO TONE button until the display goes blank or press and release the BASS or TREB knobs and turn them until the display goes blank.
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
BAL (Balance): Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to adjust sound to the right speakers and counterclockwise to adjust sound to the left speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to adjust the sound to the front speakers and counterclockwise for the rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you're not using them.
Playing a Compact Disc
Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. Wait a few seconds and the disc should play. CD and a CD symbol will also appear on the display. Anytime you are playing a CD, the letters CD will be next to the CD symbol.
If an error appears on the display, see ªCompact Disc Messagesº later in this section.
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to search for the previous track. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the disc will advance further. Sound is muted in this mode.
2 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to play
the tracks on the disc in random order. RANDOM will appear on the display. Press this pushbutton again to return to normal play.
3 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to search for the
next track. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the disc will advance further. The next track number will appear on the display. Sound is muted in this mode.
REV 4 (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to return rapidly to a favorite passage. You will hear the disc play at high speed while you press this pushbutton. This allows you to listen and find out when the disc is at the desired passage. Release this pushbutton to resume playing.
FWD 6 (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton
to advance rapidly within a track. You will hear the disc play at high speed while you press this pushbutton. This allows you to listen and find out when the disc is at the desired passage. Release this pushbutton to resume playing.
SEEK 
: The right arrow is the same as NEXT, and a the left arrow is the same as PREV. If the right or left arrow is held or pressed more than once, the player will continue moving forward or backward through the disc.
RECALL: Press this button to see what track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long the CD has been playing that track. Elapsed time is displayed in minutes and seconds. The track number will also appear when a new track begins to play. Press this button again to return to the time display.
AM FM: Press this button to listen to the radio when playing a CD. The CD symbol will still display but the word CD will be replaced with either AM, FM1 or FM2. If the radio is turned off, the disc stays in the player and will resume playing at the point where it stopped.
CD AUX (Auxiliary): Press this button to play a
CD when listening to the radio. When a disc is playing, the letters CD and the CD symbol will appear on the display. If the radio is turned off, the disc stays in
the player and will resume playing at the point where it stopped.
EJECT: Press this button to eject the disc from the player and play the radio. When the same or a new disc is inserted, the disc will start playing on track one. If a compact disc is left sitting in the opening for more than a few seconds, the player will pull the CD back in. The radio will continue playing. When the ignition is off, press this button to load a CD.
Compact Disc Messages
ERR (Error): If this message appears and the disc comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons:
DIf you're driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smooth the disc should play.
DIf it's very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the disc should play.
DThe disc is upside down.
DIt is dirty, scratched or wet.
DThe air is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and try again.)
DIf the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good CD.
Press RECALL to make ERR go off of the display.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can't be corrected, contact your dealer.
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player with Radio Data System (RDS) and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)
Playing the Radio
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off.
VOL (Volume): Turn this knob clockwise to increase volume. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume.
AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, your audio system adjusts automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive.
Set the volume at the desired level. Press this button to select LOW, MEDIUM or HIGH. AVOL will appear on the display. Each higher volume setting allows for more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds. Then as you drive, automatic volume increases the volume as necessary to overcome noise at any speed. The volume level should always sound the same to you as you drive. NONE will appear on the display if the radio cannot determine the vehicle speed. If you don't want to use automatic volume, select OFF.
Finding a Station
AM FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display will show your selection.
ATUNE ": Turn this knob to choose radio stations.
ASEEK ": Press the right or left arrow to seek to the next or previous station and stay there. The radio will seek to stations with a strong signal only. The sound will mute while seeking.
A PSCAN" (Preset Scan):Press and hold one
of the arrows for more than two seconds. The radio will produce one beep. The radio will scan to the first preset station stored on your pushbuttons, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press one of the arrows or one of the pushbuttons again to stop scanning. SCAN will be displayed whenever the tuner is in the preset scan mode. The channel number (P1 through P6) will appear with the frequency. In FM mode, this function will scan through the current band such as FM1 or FM2. The radio will scan to stations with a strong signal only. The sound will mute while scanning.
Setting Preset Stations
The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps:
1.Turn the radio on.
2.Press AM FM to select AM, FM1 or FM2.
3.Tune in the desired station.
4.Press AUTO TONE to choose the bass and treble equalization that best suits the type of station you are listening to.
5.Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons. The radio will produce one beep. Whenever you press that numbered pushbutton, the station you set will return and the bass and treble equalization that you selected will also be automatically selected for that pushbutton.
6.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
AUDIO: Press and release the AUDIO knob until BASS or TREB appears on the display. Turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease. The display will show the bass or treble level. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease
the treble.
To adjust the bass and treble to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio will produce one beep and adjust the display level to the middle position.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. The radio will produce one beep and display ALL with the level display in the middle position.
AUTO TONE: This feature allows you to choose bass and treble equalization settings designed for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock and classical stations.
Each time you press the AUTO TONE button, this feature will switch to one of these program types.
To return the bass and treble to the manual mode, press and release the AUDIO knob.
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
AUDIO: To adjust the balance to the right and left speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until BAL appears on the display. Turn the knob clockwise to move the sound to the right speakers and counterclockwise to move the sound to the left speakers.
To adjust the fade to the front and rear speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until FADE appears on the display. Turn the knob clockwise to move the sound to the front speakers and counterclockwise to move the sound to the rear speakers.
To adjust the balance and fade to the middle position, push the AUDIO knob then push it again and hold it until the radio produces one beep. The balance and fade will be adjusted to the middle position and the display will show the speaker balance.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. The radio will produce one beep and display ALL with the level display in the middle position.
Using RDS
Your audio system is equipped with a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS is a system that receives data along with the audio of the FM station you are currently tuned to. You can use RDS to display program information and to
control your radio. With RDS, the radio can do the following:
DSeek only to stations with the types of programs you want to listen to,
Dseek to stations with traffic announcements,
Dreceive announcements concerning local and national emergencies, and
Dreceive and display messages from radio stations.
RDS features are only available on FM stations that broadcast RDS information. The RDS features of your radio rely on receiving specific RDS information from these stations. These features will only work when the RDS information is available. In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect information that will cause the radio features to work improperly. If this happens, contact the radio station.
When you are tuned to an RDS station, the station name will appear on the display, instead of the frequency. Most RDS stations provide their station name, the time of day and a Program Type (PTY) for their current programming. Some stations also provide the name of the current program.
Finding RDS Stations
To find RDS stations perform the following steps:
1.Push the SEEK TYPE button or turn the
2.Turn the knob either clockwise or counterclockwise to select a program type. The list is alphabetical. If you select ANY TYPE your radio will seek to the first PTY available.
3.Push the SEEK TYPE button to activate search.
VOL (Volume): Turn this knob clockwise to increase volume when RDS interrupts regular play. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume.
DISP (Display): Press this knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS. Pressing this knob will also display an RDS station frequency or program type when the radio is on. The display options are station name, station frequency, PTY and the name of the program (if available). Pressing and holding this knob will activate the RDS default display.
Finding a PTY Preset Station
AM FM (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. Press and hold AM FM for two seconds to turn alternate frequency on. AF ON will appear on the display. The radio may switch to stronger stations. Press and hold AM FM again for two seconds to turn alternate frequency off. AF OFF will appear on the display. The radio will not switch to other stations. When you turn the ignition off and then on again, the alternate frequency feature will automatically be turned on.
SEEK TYPE: Press this button to go to a station with the last selected PTY; TYPE and the last selected PTY will appear on the display, if it is not already showing. Press SEEK TYPE a second time to seek. If a station with the selected PTY is not found, the radio will return to the original station and display NONE.
RDS Messages
Alert: Alert warns of national or local emergencies. You will not be able to turn off alert announcements. ALERT! appears on the display when an alert announcement plays. When an alert announcement comes on the current radio station, you will hear it, even if the volume is muted or a cassette tape or compact disc is playing. If the cassette tape or compact disc player is playing, play will stop for the announcement and resume when the announcement is finished.
This function will only work during actual emergency broadcasts, and will not work during tests of the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations.
INFO (Information): If the current station has a message, the information icon will appear on the display. These text messages are from the RDS broadcaster to the listening public and may be general information such as artist and song title, call in phone numbers, etc. Press this button to see the message. If the whole message does not appear on the display, parts of the message will appear every three seconds until the message is completed. To scroll through the message at your own speed, press the INFO button again for less than one second. A new group of words will appear on the display. Once the complete message has been displayed, the information icon will
disappear from the display until another new message is received. The old message can be displayed by pressing the INFO button until a new message is received or a different station is tuned to.
TRAF (Traffic): Press this button to receive traffic announcements. If the current station does not broadcast traffic announcements, the radio will seek to a station that does. The traffic symbol will flash on the display. When the radio finds a station that broadcasts traffic announcements, it will stop. If no station is found,
NO TRAF will appear on the display.
Your radio can be programmed to interrupt the playback of a cassette tape, CD or FM radio by enabling the traffic interrupt feature. Press the TRAF button once to seek to an RDS station that supports the traffic interrupt feature if the current station does not. The traffic symbol will flash on the display when seeking for a station that supports traffic interrupt. When the traffic interrupt feature is on, TRAF will appear on the display.
When a traffic announcement comes on the current radio station, you will hear it, even if the volume is muted or a cassette tape or compact disc is playing. The traffic symbol and TRAFFIC will appear on the display while the traffic announcement plays. If the cassette tape or compact disc player was being used, the tape or compact disc will stay in the player and resume play at the point where it stopped.
Radio Messages
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): This message is displayed when the radio has not been calibrated properly for the vehicle. You must return to the dealership for service.
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCKR system has locked up. You must return to the dealership for service.
Playing a Cassette Tape
Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. The longer side with the tape visible should face to the right. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off,
the tape can be inserted and will begin playing. A tape symbol is shown on the display whenever a tape is inserted. If you hear nothing but a garbled sound, the tape may not be in squarely. Press EJT to remove the tape and start over.
While the tape is playing, use the VOL, AUDIO and SEEK controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show TAPE and an arrow showing which side of the tape is playing.
If you want to insert a tape when the ignition is off, first press EJT or DISP.
If an error appears on the display, see ªCassette Tape Messagesº later in this section.
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the previous selection on the tape if the selection has been playing for less than three seconds. If this pushbutton is pressed and the current selection has been playing for more than 13 seconds, it will go to the beginning of the current selection. If this pushbutton is pressed and the current selection has been playing from 3 to 13 seconds, it will go to the beginning of the previous selection or the beginning of the current selection, depending upon the position on the tape. SEEK and a
or held, the radio will go to the displayed number of previous selections up to 9. SEEK and a negative number will appear on the display. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for previous to work. The sound will mute while seeking.
2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next selection on the tape. If you press the pushbutton more than once, the player will continue moving
forward through the tape. SEEK and a positive number will appear on the display. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for next to work. The sound will mute while seeking.
3 REV (Reverse): Press this pushbutton to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape reverses. The station frequency and REV will appear on the display. You may select stations during reverse operation by using the TUNE, DISP and SEEK.
4 FWD (Forward): Press this pushbutton to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press this pushbutton again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape advances. The station frequency and FWD will appear on the display. You may select stations during forward operation by
using TUNE and SEEK.
5 SIDE: Press this pushbutton to play the other side of the tape.
6 D(Dolby): Press this pushbutton to reduce background noise. NR ON will appear on the display. Press it again to turn Dolby NR off. NR OFF will appear on the display.
Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the
A SEEK ": The right arrow is the same as the
NEXT pushbutton, and the left arrow is the same as the PREV pushbutton. If the arrow is held or pressed more than once, the player will continue moving forward or backward through the tape. SEEK and a positive or negative number will appear on the display.
AM FM: Press this button to listen to the radio when a tape is playing. The tape will stop but remain in the player.
TAPE CD: Press this button to play a tape when listening to the radio. Press this button to switch between the tape and compact disc if both are loaded. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.
EJT (Eject): Press this button to stop a tape when it is playing or to eject a tape when it is not playing. Eject may be activated with the radio off.
Cassette tapes may be loaded with the radio off if this button is pressed first.
Cassette Tape Messages
CHK TAPE (Check Tape): If CHK TAPE appears on the radio display, the tape won't play because of one of the following errors.
DThe tape is tight and the player can't turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is working properly.
DThe tape is broken. Try a new tape.
DThe tape is wrapped around the tape head. Attempt to get the cassette out. Try a new tape.
CLEAN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See ªCare of Your Cassette Tape Playerº in the Index.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can't be corrected, contact your dealer.
Playing a Compact Disc
Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the disc should begin playing. The display will show the CD symbol. If you want to insert a compact disc with the ignition off, first press DISP or EJT.
If an error appears on the display, see ªCompact Disc Messagesº later in this section.
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the previous track if the current track has been playing
for less than eight seconds. If this pushbutton is pressed and the current track has been playing for more than eight seconds, it will go to the beginning of the current track. TRACK and the track number will appear on the display. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc. The sound will mute while seeking.
2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track. TRACK and the track number will appear on the display. If you hold this pushbutton or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. The sound will mute while seeking.
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to reverse quickly within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at
six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds to reverse at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release it to play the passage. The display will show ET and the elapsed time.
4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to advance quickly within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to advance at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds to advance at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release it to play the passage. The display will show ET and the elapsed time.
6 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM ON will appear on the display. RDM T and the track number will appear on the display when each track starts to play. Press this pushbutton again to turn off random play. RDM OFF will appear on the display.
A SEEK ": Press the left arrow to go to the start of the current or previous track. Press the right arrow to go to the start of the next track. If either of the arrows is held or pressed more then once, the player will continue moving backward or forward through the CD.
DISP (Display): Press this knob to see how long the current track has been playing. ET and the elapsed time will appear on the display. To change what is normally shown on the display (track or elapsed time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob for two seconds. The radio will produce one beep.
AM FM: Press this button to listen to the radio when a CD is playing. The CD will stop but remain in
the player.
TAPE CD: Press this button to play a tape when listening to the radio. Press this button to switch between the tape and compact disc if both are loaded. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.
EJT (Eject): Press this button to stop a CD when it is playing or to eject a CD when it is not playing. Eject may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. CDs may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this button is pressed first.
Compact Disc Messages
If the disc comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons:
DIf you're driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smooth the disc should play.
DIf it's very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the disc should play.
DThe disc is upside down.
DIt is dirty, scratched or wet.
DThe air is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and try again.)
DIf the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good CD.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can't be corrected, contact your dealer.
Rear Seat Audio (If Equipped)
This feature allows rear seat passengers to listen to any of the music sources:
PWR (Power): Press this button to turn the rear seat audio system on or off. The rear speakers will be muted when the power is turned on. You may operate the rear seat audio functions even when the primary radio power is off.
VOL (Volume): Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to decrease volume. Push the knob back into its stored position when you're not using it. The upper knob controls the upper headphone and the lower knob controls the lower headphone.
AM FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. If the front passengers are already listening to AM FM, the RSA controller will not switch between the bands and cannot change the frequency.
Press AM FM to return to listening to the radio when a cassette tape or CD is playing. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.
SEEK 
: While listening to AM, FM1 or FM2, press the up arrow to tune to the next station and stay there. Press the down arrow to tune to the previous station and stay there. The sound will mute while seeking. This button is inactive if the AM, FM1 or FM2 mode on the front radio is in use.
While listening to a cassette tape, press the up arrow to hear the next selection on the tape. Press the down arrow to go back to the previous selection. The SEEK button is inactive if the tape mode on the front radio is in use.
While listening to a CD, press the up arrow to hear the next track on the CD. Press the down arrow to go
back to the start of the current track (if more than eight seconds have played). The SEEK button is inactive if the CD mode on the front radio is in use.
To scan preset stations, press and hold SEEK until the radio goes into scan mode. The radio will go to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning. The scan function is inactive if the AM, FM1 or FM2 mode on the front radio is in use.
P.SET PROG (Preset Program): The front passengers must be listening to something different for each of these functions to work:
DPress this button to scan through the preset radio stations set on the pushbuttons on the main radio. The radio will go to a preset station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station. Press this button again to stop scanning.
DWhen a cassette tape is playing, press this button to go to the other side of the tape.
TAPE CD: Press this button to switch between playing a tape or CD if loaded. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.
Remote Compact Disc Player (If Equipped)
If you have this feature, you can play one compact disc (CD) at a time.
To load a CD into the player, hold the disc with
the label side up and insert it carefully into the player (approximately halfway). The disc will automatically be pulled into the player. If the radio is off and the ignition is on when a CD is inserted, the radio will turn on and begin playing the CD. It is possible to load and unload CDs with the ignition off. To load a disc with the ignition off, press the EJECT button on the remote player and then insert the disc. To remove the disc, press the EJECT button and remove the disc from the player.
A disc that has been ejected but is still sitting in the remote CD player will be pulled back into the player after approximately 30 seconds. This protects the disc and player from damage. The disc will not start playing. To remove the disc, press the EJECT button and remove the disc from the player.
All of the compact disc functions are controlled by the radio buttons except for EJECT. When a disc is in the player, a CD symbol will appear on the display. When a disc is playing, the letters CD will appear next to the CD symbol in the bottom left corner. The track number will also be displayed.
If the disc comes back out and ERR appears on the display, it could be that:
DThe disc is upside down.
DIt is dirty, scratched or wet.
DThere's too much moisture in the air. (Wait about an hour and try again.)
DYou are driving on a very rough road.
Please contact your dealer if any error recurs or cannot be corrected.
PREV (1): Press this button to go back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. Press PREV again to go to the previous track on the disc.
NEXT (3): Press this button to advance to the next track on the disc.
REV (4): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. As the CD reverses, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage.
FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track. As the CD advances, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage.
SEEK: Press the left arrow while playing a CD to go back to the start of the current track. It will go back to the current track if more than eight seconds have played. Press the left arrow again to go to previous tracks. Press the right arrow to go to the next higher track on the disc.
RANDOM: Press P.SCAN to enter the random play mode. RANDOM will appear on the display. While in this mode, the tracks on the disc will be played in random order. If you press SEEK, PREV or NEXT while in the random mode, the previous or next track will be scanned randomly. Press P.SCAN again to turn off RANDOM and return to normal operation.
RECALL: Press this button to see what track is currently playing. Press RECALL again within five seconds to see how long the track has been playing. When a new track starts to play, the track number will also appear. Press RECALL a third time and the time of day will be displayed.
TAPE AUX: With a disc loaded in the player and the radio playing, press this button once to play the compact disc. To return to playing the radio, press
EJECT: Press this button on the remote player to eject a compact disc.
Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped)
THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed.
The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen.
When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery power has been interrupted. If your battery loses power for any reason, you must unlock the radio with the secret code before it will operate.
Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature
The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting the procedure.
If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4.
1.Write down any three or
2.Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN.
3.Turn the radio off.
4.Press the 1 and 4 pushbuttons at the same time. Hold them down until
5.Press MN and 000 will appear on the display.
6.Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code.
7.Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code.
8.Press AM FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show REP to let you know that you need to repeat Steps 5 through 7 to confirm your secret code.
9.Press AM FM and this time the display will show SEC to let you know that your radio is secure. The LED indicator by the volume knob will begin flashing when the ignition is turned off.
Unlocking the
Power Loss
Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps:
1.Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display.
2.Press MN and 000 will appear on the display.
3.Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code.
4.Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code.
5.Press AM FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show SEC, indicating the radio is now operable and secure.
If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear on the display. You will have to wait an hour with the ignition on before you can try again. When you try again, you will only have three chances to enter the correct code before INOP appears.
If you lose or forget your code, contact your dealer.
Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature
Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps:
1.Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN.
2.Turn the radio off.
3.Press the 1 and 4 pushbuttons at the same time. Hold them down until SEC shows on the display.
4.Press MN and 000 will appear on the display.
5.Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code.
6.Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code.
7.Press AM FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show
If the code entered is incorrect, SEC will appear on the display. The radio will remain secured until the correct code is entered.
When battery power is removed and later applied to a secured radio, the radio won't turn on and LOC will appear on the display.
To unlock a secured radio, see ªUnlocking the
Theft-Deterrent Feature RDS Radios (If Equipped)
THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your radio. The feature works automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
If the radio is moved to a different vehicle, it will not operate and LOCKED will be displayed.
When the radio and vehicle are turned off, the blinking red light indicates that THEFTLOCK is armed.
With THEFTLOCK activated, your radio will not operate if stolen.
Understanding Radio Reception
AM
The range for most AM stations is greater than for
FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.
FM Stereo
FM stereo will give you the best sound, but FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go.
Tips About Your Audio System
Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts to it.
To help avoid hearing loss or damage do the following:
1.Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting.
2.Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably and clearly.
NOTICE:
Before you add any sound equipment to your vehicle
So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to check federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units.
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren't, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player.
Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. Your radio will display CLEAN to indicate that you have used your tape player for
50 hours without resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears on the display, your cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and player. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a known good cassette to see if it is the tape or the tape player at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player.
The recommended cleaning method for your cassette tape player is the use of a scrubbing action,
When cleaning the cassette tape player with the recommended
1.Turn the ignition to RUN or ACCESSORY.
2.Turn the radio off.
3.Press and hold the TAPE CD button for five seconds. READY will appear on the display for five seconds.
4.Insert the scrubbing action cleaning cassette.
5.Eject the cleaning cassette after the manufacturer's recommended cleaning time.
When the cleaning cassette has been ejected, the broken tape detection feature is active again.
You may also choose a
After you clean the player, press and hold the EJT button for five seconds to reset the CLEAN indicator. The radio will display CLEANED to show the indicator was reset.
Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced.
Care of Your Compact Discs
Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.
Be sure never to touch the signal surface when handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.
Care of Your Compact Disc Player
The use of CD lens cleaner discs is not advised, due to the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics with lubricants internal to the CD mechanism.
Fixed Mast Antenna
The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should replace it.
Check every once in a while to be sure the mast is still tightened to the fender. If tightening is required, tighten by hand, then with a wrench one quarter turn.
Section 4 Your Driving and the Road
Here you'll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We've also included many other useful tips on driving.
Defensive Driving |
| City Driving | ||
| ||||
Drunken Driving |
| Freeway Driving | ||
Control of a Vehicle |
| Before Leaving on a Long Trip | ||
Braking |
| Highway Hypnosis | ||
Steering |
| Hill and Mountain Roads | ||
| Winter Driving | |||
Passing |
| Recreational Vehicle Towing | ||
Loss of Control |
| Loading Your Vehicle | ||
Driving at Night |
| Towing a Trailer | ||
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
Defensive Driving
The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively.
Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. See ªSafety Beltsº in the Index.
Defensive driving really means ªbe ready for anything.º On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means ªalways expect the unexpected.º
Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes.
know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn suddenly.
Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on the driving task. Anything that distracts from the driving task
or pull off the road in a safe place to do them yourself. These simple defensive driving techniques could save your life.
Drunken Driving
Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It's the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year.
Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle:
DJudgment
DMuscular Coordination
DVision
DAttentiveness.
Police records show that almost half of all motor
Many adults
The obvious way to solve the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is ªtoo muchº if the driver plans to drive? It's a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person
and situation, here is some general information on the problem.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things:
DThe amount of alcohol consumed
DThe drinker's body weight
DThe amount of food that is consumed before and during drinking
DThe length of time it has taken the drinker to consume the alcohol.
According to the American Medical Association, a
BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three
It's the amount of alcohol that counts. For example,
if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person's BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
There is a gender difference, too. Women generally have a lower relative percentage of body water than men.
Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks.
The law in an increasing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, sets the legal limit at 0.08 percent. In some other countries, the limit is even lower. For example, it is 0.05 percent in both France and Germany. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent.
The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we've seen, it depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks, and how quickly the person drinks them.
But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at
night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a
BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. ªI'll be carefulº isn't the right answer. What if there's an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.
There's something else about drinking and driving that many people don't know. Medical research shows that alcohol in a person's system can make crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord or heart. This means that when anyone who has been drinking
CAUTION:
Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You can have a serious
Control of a Vehicle
You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road.
Sometimes, as when you're driving on snow or ice, it's easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle.
Braking
Braking action involves perception time andreaction time.
First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That's perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That'sreaction time.
Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second.
But that's only an average. It might be less with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and frustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between your vehicle and others is important.
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it's pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; the condition of your brakes; the weight of the vehicle and the amount of brake force applied.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts
faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
If your engine ever stops while you're driving, brake normally but don't pump your brakes. If you do, the pedal may get harder to push down. If your engine stops, you will still have some power brake assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
Your vehicle has
When you start your engine and begin to drive away, your
United States | Canada |
If there's a problem with the
Let's say the road is wet and you're driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here's what happens with ABS:
A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at both rear wheels.
The
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.
Remember:
Using Anti-Lock
Don't pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let
Braking in Emergencies
With
Steering
Power Steering
If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort.
Steering Tips
Driving on Curves
It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the ªdriver lost controlº accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here's why:
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you've ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you'll understand this.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you're in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.
Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems
do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control.
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you'll want to go slower.
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your speed so you can ªdriveº through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.
Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking
in time. But sometimes you can't; there isn't room. That's the time for evasive action
Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. See ªBraking in Emergenciesº earlier in this section. It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left
or right depending on the space available.
An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o'clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.
The fact that such emergency situations are always possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety belts properly.
Off-Road Recovery
You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you're driving.
If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to
Passing
The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a
So here are some tips for passing:
DªDrive ahead.º Look down the road, to the sides and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time.
DWatch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it's all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.
DDo not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you're awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you're following a larger
vehicle. Also, you won't have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance.
DWhen it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don't get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the
other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a ªrunning startº that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for another opportunity.
DIf other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone isn't trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle.
Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot.
DCheck your mirrors, glance over your shoulder and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. (Remember that your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.)
DTry not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on
DDon't overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may be slowing down or starting to turn.
DIf you're being passed, make it easy for the following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease a little to the right.
Loss of Control
Let's review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don't have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked.
In any emergency, don't give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.
Skidding
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not ªoverdrivingº those conditions. But skids are
always possible.
The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle's three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels aren't rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.
A cornering skid and an acceleration skid are best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs.
Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you'll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited.
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues
Remember: Any
Driving at Night
Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired
Here are some tips on night driving.
DDrive defensively.
DDon't drink and drive.
DAdjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you.
DSince you can't see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.
DSlow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead.
DIn remote areas, watch for animals.
DIf you're tired, pull off the road in a safe place and rest.
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A
What you do in the daytime can also affect your night vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you're driving, don't wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lot of things invisible.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn't lower the high beams, or a vehicle with
misaimed headlamps), slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into the approaching headlamps.
Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean
Remember that your headlamps light up far less of a roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your eyes moving; that way, it's easier to pick out dimly lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can't stop, accelerate or turn as well because your
The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement.
The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road and even people walking.
It's wise to keep your wiping equipment in good
shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled with washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiper inserts when they show signs of streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to separate from the inserts.
Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can't, try to slow down before you hit them.
CAUTION:
Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won't work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle.
After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.
Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you're going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.
Hydroplaning doesn't happen often. But it can if your tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops ªdimpleº the water's surface, there could be hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There just isn't a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.
Driving Through Deep Standing Water
NOTICE:
If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your
engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can't avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly.
Driving Through Flowing Water
CAUTION:
Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. If you try to drive through flowing water, as you might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can be carried away. As little as six inches of flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this happens, you and the other vehicle occupants could drown. Don't ignore police warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious about trying to drive through flowing water.
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
DBesides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted by road spray.
DHave good tires with proper tread depth. See ªTiresº in the Index.
City Driving
One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You'll want to watch out
for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals.
Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:
DKnow the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an
unknown part of the city just as you would for a
DTry to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You'll save time and energy. See the next part, ªFreeway Driving.º
DTreat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it. When a light turns green, and just before you start to move, check both ways for vehicles that have not cleared the intersection or may be running the red light.
Freeway Driving
Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules.
The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving.
At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.
Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to the posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it's slower. Stay in the right lane unless you want to pass.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use your turn signal.
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there isn't another vehicle in your ªblindº spot.
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move slightly slower at night.
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit.
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
The exit speed is usually posted.
Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Make sure you're ready. Try to be well rested. If you must start when you're not fresh
Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced and maintained, it's ready to go. If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you'll find experienced and able service experts in GM dealerships all across North America. They'll be ready and willing to help if you need it.
Here are some things you can check before a trip:
DWindshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside?
DWiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
DFuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels?
DLamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
DTires: They are vitally important to a safe,
DWeather Forecasts: What's the weather outlook along your route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system?
DMaps: Do you have
Highway Hypnosis
Is there actually such a condition as ªhighway hypnosisº? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever.
There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don't let it happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the road in less than a second, and you could crash and
be injured.
What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be aware that it can happen.
Then here are some tips:
DMake sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a comfortably cool interior.
DKeep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your instruments frequently.
DIf you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.
Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain.
If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you're planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable.
DKeep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads.
DKnow how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.
CAUTION:
If you don't shift down, your brakes could get so hot that they wouldn't work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to
let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.
CAUTION:
Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn't work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you
go downhill.
DKnow how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the hill better.
DStay in your own lane when driving on
DAs you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.
DYou may see highway signs on mountains that warn of
special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or
Winter Driving
Here are some tips for winter driving:
DHave your vehicle in good shape for winter.
DYou may want to put winter emergency supplies in your vehicle.
Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.
Driving on Snow or Ice
Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction.
However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You'll have a lot less traction or ªgripº and will need to be very careful.
What's the worst time for this? ªWet ice.º Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it's about freezing (32_F; 0_C) and freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there.
Whatever the condition
Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more.
Your
DAllow greater following distance on any slippery road.
DWatch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that's covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the sun can't reach: around clumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you're actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.
If You're Caught in a Blizzard
If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe:
D Turn on your hazard flashers.
DTie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you've been stopped by the snow.
DPut on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats
You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.
CAUTION:
Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can't see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn't collect there.
Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that's away from the wind. This will help keep CO out.
Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a
Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes.
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle behind another vehicle
Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with any of its wheels on the ground. If your vehicle must be towed, see ªTowing Your Vehicleº in the Index.
NOTICE:
Towing an all±wheel±drive vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, or even with only two of its wheels on the ground, will damage drivetrain components. Don't tow an all±wheel±drive vehicle if any of its wheels will be on the ground.
Loading Your Vehicle
The Certification/Tire label in your vehicle will look similar to this example.
The Certification/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver's door. The label shows the size of your original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle.
This is called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, cargo and tongue weight, if pulling a trailer.
The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load equally on both sides of the centerline.
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle.
And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out.
CAUTION:
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.
Using heavier suspension components to get added durability might not change your weight ratings. Ask your dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way.
NOTICE:
Your warranty does not cover parts or components that fail because of overloading.
If you put things inside of your vehicle
CAUTION:
Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash.
DPut things in the cargo area of your vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly.
DNever stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats.
DDon't leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle.
DWhen you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
DDon't leave a seat folded down unless you need to.
Payload
The Payload Capacity is shown on the Certification/Tire label. This is the maximum load capacity that your vehicle can carry. Be sure to include the weight of the people inside as part of your load. If you added any accessories or equipment after your vehicle left the factory, remember to subtract the weight of these things from the payload. Your dealer can help you with this.
Trailering Package
There is a load rating which includes the weight of the vehicle and the trailer it tows. This rating is called the Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR).
When you weigh your trailer, be sure to include the weight of everything you put in it. And, remember to figure the weight of the people inside the vehicle as part of your load.
Add-On Equipment
When you carry removable items, you may need to put a limit on how many people you carry inside your vehicle. Be sure to weigh your vehicle before you buy and install the new equipment.
Towing a Trailer
CAUTION:
If you don't use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well
NOTICE:
Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this part, and see your dealer for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle. Additional rear axle maintenance is required for a vehicle used to tow a trailer. See ªScheduled Maintenance Servicesº in the Index.
To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in ªWeight of the Trailerº that appears later in this section.
If yours was built with trailering options, as many are, it's ready for heavier trailers. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment,
and it has to be used properly.
That's the reason for this part. In it are many
of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer.
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If you do, here are some important points:
DThere are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you'll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police.
DConsider using a sway control if your trailer will weigh 2,000 lbs. (900 kg) or less. You should always use a sway control if your trailer will weigh more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg).You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls.
DDon't tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.
DThen, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don't drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don't make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.
DYou can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions). See ªTow/Haul Modeº in the Index.
Three important considerations have to do with weight:
Dthe weight of the trailer,
Dthe weight of the trailer tongue
Dand the weight on your vehicle's tires.
Tow/Haul Mode
The tow/haul mode is a feature that assists when pulling a heavy trailer. The purpose of the tow/haul mode is:
Dto reduce the frequency of shifts when pulling a heavy trailer.
Dto provide the same shift feel when pulling a heavy trailer as when the vehicle is unloaded.
Dto reduce the need to change throttle position when pulling a heavy trailer.
This feature is turned on or off by pressing a button on the column shift lever. When the feature is on, a light on the instrument panel will illuminate to indicate that the tow/haul mode has been selected.
See ªTow/Haul Mode Lightº in the Index. The tow/haul mode is automatically turned off each time the vehicle is started.
The tow/haul mode is most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75% of the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and the maximum trailer weight rating for the vehicle. See ªGross Vehicle Weight Ratingº and ªTrailer Weightº in the Index.
The tow/haul mode for hauling a heavy trailer is most useful under the following conditions:
DWhen driving through hilly terrain at speeds below 55 mph (88 km/h).
DWhen driving in low speed or stop and go traffic below 55 mph (88 km/h).
DWhen driving in parking lots.
Operating in the tow/haul mode when not pulling a heavy trailer will not cause damage to the vehicle, but you may experience reduced fuel economy and undesirable performance from the engine and transmission. The tow/haul mode should be used only when pulling a heavy trailer.
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle.
The following chart shows how much your trailer can weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options.
Vehicle | Axle Ratio | Max. Trailer Wt. (lbs.) (kg.) | GCWR (lbs.) (kg.) |
3.42 | 5,300 (2406) | 9,500 (4 313 kg) | |
| 3.73 | 5,800 (2633) | 10,000 (4 540 kg) |
3.42 | 4,900 (2225) | 9,500 (4 313 kg) | |
| 3.73 | 5,400 (2452) | 10,000 (4 450 kg) |
3.42 | 5,100 (2315) | 9,500 (4 313 kg) | |
| 3.73 | 5,600 (2542) | 10,000 (4 540 kg) |
3.42 | 4,700 (2134) | 9,500 (4 313 kg) | |
| 3.73 | 5,200 (2361) | 10,000 (4 540 kg) |
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming the driver and one passenger are in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at the address listed in your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information Booklet.
In Canada, write to:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre,
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See ªLoading Your Vehicleº in the Index for more information about your vehicle's maximum load capacity.
If you're using a
After you've loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren't, you may be able to get them
right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires
Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the Certification/Tire label at the rear edge of the driver's door or see ªTire Loadingº in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.
Hitches
It's important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you'll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow:
DIf you'll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will
weigh more than 2,000 lbs. (900 kg.), be sure to use a properly mounted,
DWill you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don't seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle. See ªCarbon Monoxideº in the Index. Dirt and water can, too.
Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by
the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to
the bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes
Your trailer brake system can tap into your vehicle's hydraulic brake system, except:
DDon't tap into your vehicle's brake system if the trailer's brake system will use more than
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle's master cylinder. If it does, both braking systems won't work well. You could even lose your brakes.
DWill the trailer parts take 3,000 psi (20 650 kPa) of pressure? If not, the trailer brake system must not be used with your vehicle.
DIf everything checks out this far, then make the brake fluid tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends fluid to the rear brakes. But don't use copper tubing for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off. Use steel brake tubing.
Driving with a Trailer
CAUTION:
If you have a
DHave your exhaust system inspected for leaks, and make necessary repairs before starting on your trip.
DKeep the
DIf exhaust does come into your vehicle through a window in the rear or another opening, drive with your front, main heating or cooling system on and with the fan on any speed. This will bring fresh, outside air into your vehicle. Do not use MAX A/C because it only recirculates the air inside your vehicle. See ªComfort Controlsº in the Index.
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you'll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
You'll need more passing distance up ahead when you're towing a trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and,
if possible, have someone guide you.
Making Turns
NOTICE:
Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.
When you're turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won't strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects.
Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have extra wiring (included in the optional trailering package).
The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you're about to turn, change lanes or stop.
When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It's important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working.
Driving On Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don't shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well.
You can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions). See ªTow/Haul Modeº in the Index.
When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If you turn your engine off immediately after towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, your vehicle may show signs similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the engine run while parked (preferably on level ground) with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) for a few minutes before turning the engine off. If you do get
the overheat warning, see ªEngine Overheatingº in the Index.
Parking on Hills
CAUTION:
You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes
wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here's how to do it:
1.Apply your regular brakes, but don't shift into PARK (P) yet.
2.Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
3.When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
4.Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your parking brake, and shift to PARK (P).
5.Release the regular brakes.
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill
1.Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you:
D start your engine,
D shift into a gear, and
D release the parking brake.
2.Let up on the brake pedal.
3.Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.
4.Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
Your vehicle will need service more often when you're pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don't overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered
in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly. If you're trailering, it's a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.
Trailer Wiring Harness
If you have the optional trailering package, your vehicle will have an
feed wire and no connector, and should be wired by a qualified electrical technician. After choosing an aftermarket trailer mating connector pair, have the
technician attach one connector to the
It consists of six wires that may be used by
The technician can use the following color code chart when connecting the wiring harness to your trailer.
DBrown: Rear lamps.
DYellow: Left stoplamp and turn signal.
DDark Green: Right stoplamp and turn signal.
DWhite (Heavy Gage): Ground.
DLight Green:
DWhite (Light Gage): Center
DBlue: Auxiliary circuit
DOrange: Fused auxiliary
Store the harness in its original place. Wrap the harness together and tie it neatly so it won't
be damaged.
Section 5 Problems on the Road
Here you'll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.
Hazard Warning Flashers | Cooling System | ||
Other Warning Devices | Engine Fan Noise | ||
Jump Starting | If a Tire Goes Flat | ||
Towing Your Vehicle | Changing a Flat Tire | ||
Engine Overheating | If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow | ||
|
|
|
|
Hazard Warning Flashers
Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off.
The hazard warning flasher button is located on top of the steering column.
Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn't in.
Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Press the button again to turn the flashers off.
When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won't work.
Other Warning Devices
If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle.
Jump Starting
If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please follow the numbered steps to do it safely.
CAUTION:
Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because:
DThey contain acid that can burn you.
DThey contain gas that can explode or ignite.
DThey contain enough electricity to burn you.
If you don't follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.
NOTICE:
Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn't be covered by your warranty.
The ACDelcoR battery in your vehicle has a
Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it won't work, and it could damage your vehicle.
1.Check the other vehicle. It must have a
NOTICE:
If the other system isn't a
2.Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren't touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don't want. You wouldn't be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.
To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) and a manual transmission in NEUTRAL.
3.Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or accessory power outlets. Turn off all lamps that aren't needed as well as radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. In addition,
it could save your radio!
NOTICE:
If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn't be covered by your warranty.
4.Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative
CAUTION:
Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light.
Be sure the battery has enough water. You don't need to add water to the ACDelcoR battery installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don't, explosive gas could be present.
Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Don't get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.
CAUTION:
Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.
5.Check that the jumper cables don't have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too.
Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative
Don't connect positive (+) to negative
6.Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of
the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
7.Don't let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
8. Now connect the black negative
The other end of the negative
9.Connect the other end of the negative
10.Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while.
11.Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won't start after a few tries, it probably needs service.
NOTICE:
Damage to your vehicle may result from electrical shorting if jumper cables are removed incorrectly. To prevent electrical shorting, take care that the cables don't touch each other or any other metal. The repairs wouldn't be covered by your warranty.
Jumper Cable Removal
A.Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part
B.Good Battery
C.Dead Battery
To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following:
1.Disconnect the black negative
2.Disconnect the black negative
3.Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the vehicle with the good battery.
4.Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the other vehicle.
Towing Your Vehicle
Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See ªRoadside Assistanceº in the Index. If you want to
tow your vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes (such as behind a motorhome), see ªRecreational Vehicle Towingº in the Index.
Engine Overheating
You will find an engine coolant temperature gage on your vehicle's instrument panel. See ªGagesº in the Index.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood.
If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.
NOTICE:
If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you:
DClimb a long hill on a hot day.
DStop after
DIdle for long periods in traffic.
DTow a trailer. See ªDriving on Gradesº in the Index.
If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so:
1.If you have an air conditioner and it's on, turn it off.
2.Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the window as necessary.
3.If you're in a traffic jam, shift to NEUTRAL (N); otherwise, shift to the highest gear while
driving
If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning doesn't come back on, you can drive normally.
If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away.
If there's still no sign of steam, push down the accelerator until the engine speed is about twice as fast as normal idle speed for at least three minutes while you're parked. If you still have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down.
You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.
Cooling System
When you decide it's safe to lift the hood, here's what you'll see:
A.Coolant Recovery Tank
B.Radiator Pressure Cap
C.Engine Cooling Fan
If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don't do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be parked on a level surface.
The coolant level should be at the ADD mark.
If it isn't, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
CAUTION:
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don't touch them. If you do, you can be burned.
Don't run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.
If there seems to be no leak, start the engine again.
The engine cooling fan speed should increase when idle speed is doubled by pushing the accelerator pedal down. If it doesn't, your vehicle needs service. Turn off
the engine.
NOTICE:
Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn't covered by your warranty.
NOTICE:
When adding coolant, it is important that you use only
If coolant other than
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank
If you haven't found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn't at the ADD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle's coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn't get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
NOTICE:
In cold weather, water can freeze and crack
the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.
CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the ADD mark, start your vehicle.
If the overheat warning continues, there's one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
CAUTION:
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
pressure cap
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator
You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is
no longer hot.
1.Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.)
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
2.Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.
3.Fill the radiator with the proper
4.Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the ADD mark.
5.Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the pressure cap off.
6.Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan.
7.By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator
filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper
8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
Be sure the arrow on the pressure cap lines up like this.
Engine Fan Noise
This vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan. When the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the clutch is not fully engaged. This improves fuel economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases when the clutch engages. So you may hear an increase in fan noise.
This is normal and should not be mistaken as the transmission slipping or making extra shifts. It is merely the cooling system functioning properly. The fan will slow down when additional cooling is not required and the clutch disengages.
You may also hear this fan noise when you start the engine. It will go away as the fan clutch disengages.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It's unusual for a tire to ªblow outº while you're driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it's much more likely to leak out slowly.
But if you should ever have a ªblowout,º here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane.
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you'd use in a skid. In any rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop
If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.
Changing a Flat Tire
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.
CAUTION:
Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:
1.Set the parking brake firmly.
2.Put the shift lever in PARK (P).
3.Turn off the engine.
4.Put the wheel blocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side of the vehicle, at the opposite end.
The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
The jacking equipment you'll need is stored by your vehicle's rear doors, along the passenger's side wall.
1.Remove the jack cover by pulling it away from the side wall and down to release the tabs securing the top of the cover.
2.Remove the wheel blocks by turning the top nut counterclockwise. Remove the nut and washer, then pull the wheel blocks off the bolt.
3.Push down on the bolt and remove the hooked end from the slot. Slide the jack toward the front of the vehicle and lift it from the mounting. Remove the extension and the ratchet from the pouch.
Your compact spare tire is stored underneath the rear of your vehicle. You will use the ratchet and extension to lower the compact spare tire.
The ratchet has an UP side.
It also has a DOWN side.
4.Attach the ratchet, with the DOWN side facing you, to the extension. The extension has a socket end and a flat chisel end.
5.Put the flat end of the extension on an angle through the hole in the rear door frame, above the bumper. Be sure the flat end connects into the hoist shaft.
6.Turn the ratchet counterclockwise to lower the compact spare tire to the ground. Keep turning the ratchet until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle.
7. When the tire has been lowered, tilt the retainer plate at the end of the cable and pull it through the wheel opening.
8. Pull the tire out from under the vehicle.
NOTICE:
To help avoid vehicle damage, do not drive the vehicle before the cable is restored.
The tools you'll be using include the jack (A), wheel blocks (B), extension (C) and ratchet (D).
Removing the Wheel Covers
You will have to take off hub caps or wheel nut caps to reach your wheel nuts.
Styled Steel Wheel Shown
If you have the styled steel wheel or aluminum wheel with plastic nut caps, loosen the plastic nut caps with the ratchet and socket. Make sure the DOWN side faces you.
To remove the hub cap from the aluminum wheel without plastic nut caps, fit the flat end of the extension into the notch. Then, remove the center cap.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the
Spare Tire
1.Before you start, block the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. Then put your compact spare tire near the flat tire.
2.With the DOWN side facing you, use the ratchet and socket to loosen all the wheel nuts. Don't remove them yet.
3.The jack has a bolt on the end. Attach the socket end of the extension to the jack bolt.