Cadillac DeVille 2002 Owner's Manual

2002 Cadillac DeVille

Owner’s Manual

Litho in U.S.A.
Part Number 25729638 A First Edition All Rights Reserved

E

Copyright General Motors Corporation 06/08/01

i

GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem,
CADILLAC, the CADILLAC Crest & Wreath and
the name DEVILLE 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 “General Motors of Canada
Limited” for Cadillac Motor Car Division 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

ii

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 “Don’t,”
“Don’t do this” or “Don’t
let this happen.”

iii

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:

D

“Engine Compartment Overview”

D

“Instrument Panel”

D

“Comfort Controls”

D

“Audio Systems”

Also see “Warning Lights and Gages” in the Index.

iv

These are some examples of vehicle symbols you may find on your vehicle:

v

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.

1

-2 Seats and Seat Controls

1

-9 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

-14 Here Are Questions Many People Ask About

1

Safety Belts

-15 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

1
1

-15 Driver Position

1

-22 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

-23 Right Front Passenger Position

1
1

-23 Air Bag Systems

-34 Safety Belt Pretensioners

1

-- and the Answers

-34 Center Front Passenger Position

1
1

-36 Rear Seat Passengers

-39 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children

1

and Small Adults

1

-41 Children

1

-45 Restraint Systems for Children

1

-59 Older Children

-62 Safety Belt Extender

1
1

-62 Checking Your Restraint Systems

-62 Replacing Restraint System Parts

1

After a Crash

1-

1-1

Seats and Seat Controls

This section tells you about the power seats -- how to
adjust them, and also about the reclining front seatbacks,
memory seats, lumbar adjustments and heated seats.

Power Seats

The power seat controls
are located on the
outboard sides of the
front seat cushions.

D

Move the front of the seat control up or down to
adjust the front portion of the cushion.

D

Move the rear of the seat control up or down to
adjust the rear portion of the cushion.

D

Lift up or push down on the center of the seat control
to move the entire seat up or down.

D

T o move the seat forward or rearward, slide the seat
control forward or rearward.

Four-Way Power Lumbar Control (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this
feature, the driver’s and
passenger’s seatback
lumbar support controls are
located on the outboard
sides of the seats.

Use the power seat controls first to get the proper
position, then continue with the lumbar adjustment.

T o reshape the lower seatback, press the lumbar control
forward to increase support and rearward to decrease
support. Press the control up or down to raise or lower
the support mechanism.

Keep in mind that as your seating position changes, as it
may during long trips, so should the position of your
lumbar support. Adjust the seat as needed.

1-2

Massaging Lumbar (If Equipped)

This control is located
on the outboard sides of
the front seats. With the
ignition on, briefly press
the top of the control where
it is marked AUTO to
activate the massaging
lumbar feature.

The massage cycle will run continuously for up to
10 minutes and can be interrupted by briefly pressing
the bottom of the control. The lumbar support can be
adjusted during the massage cycle by moving the control
forward to increase support and rearward to decrease
support. The massage cycle will continue to run even if
the ignition is turned to OFF, unless interrupted.

Four-Way Rear Power Lumbar (If Equipped)

Four-way lumbar support, without the massage feature,
is also available for the outboard rear seating positions.

If your vehicle has this
feature, the rear lumbar
support controls are located
on the rear door trim panels.

T o activate the rear lumbar support feature, push
forward on the control to increase support or rearward to
decrease support. The lumbar control can also be moved
up and down to adjust the location of the support.

1-3

Adaptive Seat Control (Option)

The adaptive seat control is
located on the outboard side
of each front seat. It is
marked AUTO.

With the ignition in ON, first use the power seat control
to get the proper position. Then press the top of the
control where it is marked AUTO. The system will
inflate the cushion and take a reading, then
automatically deflate the cushion to a suggested level of
comfort, by distributing the pressure evenly. The
seatback and cushion will inflate to adjust to the driver’s
body positioning in two to four

-minute cycles.

You may still wish to further adjust the overall firmness
or softness of the seat cushion. T o get to your desired
level of comfort, hold the control up to increase the
firmness, or down for less firmness. When you let go of
the control, the seat will then automatically readjust to
your desired level of comfort.

T o reshape the lower seatback, press the lumbar control
forward to increase support and rearward to decrease
support. The lumbar will then automatically adjust to
your body’s positioning for the duration of the trip in
two to four-minute cycles.

If you exit the vehicle after the system has been
activated and the seat is left unoccupied for more than
two minutes, the system will deflate. You will then
need to readjust the lumbar support upon returning to
your vehicle.

T o turn off the adaptive seat feature, briefly press the
bottom of the control. The seat will deflate when the
adaptive seat control or the ignition is turned off.

If your vehicle has this option, the massaging lumbar
feature is not available for your vehicle.

1-4

Memory Seat, Mirrors and Steering Wheel (If Equipped)

The controls for these
features are located on the
driver’s door panel, and are
used to program and recall
memory settings for the
driver’s seating positions.

Use the following steps to program each button:

1. Adjust the driver’s seat (including the seatback
recliner, lumbar, head restraint and shoulder belt
height adjustments), both outside mirrors and the
steering wheel to a comfortable position.

2. Press the SET button.

3. Within five seconds, press button 1. A single beep
will sound through the driver’s side front speaker to
let you know that the position has been stored.

A second mirror, seating and steering wheel position can
be programmed by repeating the above steps and
pressing button 2 (for driver 2). Each time a memory
button is pressed, a single beep will sound. Each time
button 1 or 2 is pressed and released while the vehicle
is in PARK (P), the memory positions will be recalled.
If the vehicle is not in PARK (P), the memory buttons
must be pressed and held to recall the stored positions.

If you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to enter
your vehicle, automatic seat and mirror movement will
occur. The numbers on the back of the transmitters,
1 and 2, correspond to the numbers on the buttons on
the door panel.

When the key is placed in the ignition in OFF if you
have entered the vehicle without using the remote
keyless entry transmitter, the seats and mirrors will
automatically adjust to the programmed position of
the last driver.

T o stop recall movement of the memory feature at
any time, press one of the power seat controls or
memory buttons.

1-5

T wo personalized exit positions can be set by first
recalling the driving position (by pressing 1 or 2), then
positioning the steering wheel and seat in the desired
exit positions and then pressing and releasing the
MEMOR Y SET button and, within five seconds,
pressing the EXIT button. With the vehicle in
PARK (P), the exit position for the last driver can be
recalled by pressing the EXIT button. The mirrors,
power lumbar and shoulder belt height positions will
not be stored or recalled for the exit positions.

Further programming for automatic seat and mirror
movement can be done using the Driver Information
Center (DIC). You can select or not select the following:

D

Automatic seat and mirror movement when the
vehicle is unlocked with the remote keyless entry
transmitter, or

D

automatic seat and mirror movement when a key is
placed in the ignition.

For programming information, see “Vehicle
Programming and Personalization Features” in
the Index.

Heated Seats (If Equipped)

Your vehicle may have heated front and rear seats.

The buttons are located on the armrests. Press the
buttons to turn the feature on. Press them again to turn
off the heated seats. The feature will also shut off when
the ignition is turned to OFF.

1-6

The HEAT/OFF button controls the temperature settings
HI, MED and LO. The other button is to choose BACK
ONLY heating. The LO setting warms the seatback and
cushion until the seat approximates body temperature.
The MED and HI settings heat the seatback and seat
cushion to a slightly higher temperature, and the BACK
ONLY heats only the seatback.

The temperature can be adjusted by pushing the
button from HI to LO or, until the desired setting is
reached. You will be able to feel heat in approximately
two minutes. T o heat just the seatback, push the BACK
ONLY button once, after first activating the heated seat
feature. T o resume heat to both the seat cushion and
seatback, press the button again.

Reclining Front Seatbacks

The recliner controls are
located on the outboard
sides of the front seats.

Press the recliner control forward or rearward to adjust
the seatback forward or rearward.

Push the recliner control up or down to adjust the
shoulder belt height. See “Shoulder Belt Height
Adjuster” in the Index for more information.

1-7

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. 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.

1-8

Head Restraints

Slide the head restraint up or down 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.

The head restraints tilt forward and rearward also.
The rear seat head restraints in your vehicle may be

adjustable. They work the same as the front seat head
restraints, except they do not tilt forward or rearward.

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.

1-9

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 “Safety
Belt Reminder Light” 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!

1-10

Why Safety Belts Work

When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as
it goes.

T ake the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat
on wheels.

Put someone on it.

1-11

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider
doesn’t stop.

1-12

The person keeps going until stopped by something.
In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

or the instrument panel ... 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.

1-13

Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an

Q:

accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

-- and the Answers

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety

belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety 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, is much 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 work with
safety belts
system ever offered for sale has required the use of
safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air
bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most
protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions,
but especially in side and other collisions.

-- not instead of them. Every air bag

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
and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good
driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your
control, such as bad drivers.

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.

-- even one that isn’t your fault -- you

1-14

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 “Children.” 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 lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear
it properly.

1. Close and lock the door.

2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight. T o see
how , see “Seats” in the Index.

1-15

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.

The lap
across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt
go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt
across you more slowly.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Be sure to use the correct buckle when buckling your

lap
not go fully into the buckle, see if you are using the
buckle for the center passenger position.

Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt
Extender” 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.

-shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt

-shoulder belt. If you find that the latch plate will

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 crash, or
if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

1-16

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt
adjuster to the height that is right for you.

T o move it down, press down on the power seat recliner
control and move the height adjuster to the desired
position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing
up on the power seat recliner control. After you move
the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down
without pushing the power seat recliner control 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.

1-17

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.

1-18

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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.

1-19

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.

1-20

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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.

1-21

T o 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 lap-shoulder belt, and
the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below
the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

1-22

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

T o learn how to wear the right front passenger’s
safety belt properly, see “Driver Position” earlier
in this section.

The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same
way as the driver’s safety belt
If you ever pull the lap portion of the belt out all the
way , you will engage the child restraint locking feature.
If this happens, just let the belt go back all the way and
start again.

-- except for one thing.

Air Bag Systems

This part explains the frontal and side impact air
bag systems.

Your vehicle has air bags
driver and another frontal air bag for the right front
passenger . Your vehicle also has a side impact air bag
for the driver and another side impact air bag for the
right front passenger. Your vehicle may also have a side
impact air bag for each of the two rear seat outboard
passenger positions.

If your vehicle has side impact air bags for each of the
two rear seat outboard passenger positions, it will say AIR
BAG on each side of the rear seatback closest to the door.

-- a frontal air bag for the

1-23

Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of
injury from the force of an inflating frontal 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 systems:

CAUTION:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if
you aren’t wearing your safety belt
have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a
crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things
inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air
bags are designed to work with safety belts but
don’t replace them.

Frontal air bags for the driver and right front
passenger are designed to work only in moderate
to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle
hits something.

CAUTION: (Continued)

-- even if you

1-24

CAUTION: (Continued)

They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover,
rear or low
side crashes. And, for some unrestrained
occupants, frontal air bags may provide less
protection in frontal crashes than more for ceful
air bags have provided in the past. Side impact
air bags are designed to inflate only in moderate
to severe crashes where something hits the side
of your vehicle. They aren’t designed to inflate
in frontal, in rollover or in rear crashes.
Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety
belt properly
bag for that person.

-speed frontal crashes, or in many

-- whether or not there’s an air

CAUTION:

Both frontal and side impact 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 for air bag inflation before and during a
crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with
frontal air bags. The driver should sit as far back
as possible while still maintaining control of the
vehicle. Occupants should not lean on or sleep
against the door.

1-25

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 lap
the best protection for adults, but not for young
children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety
belt system nor its air bag system is designed for
them. Young children and infants need the
protection that a child restraint system can
provide. Always secure children properly in your
vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual
called “Children.”

-shoulder belts offer

United States Canada (Analog Only)

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument
panel, which shows the words AIR BAG or an air
bag symbol.

The system checks the air bag electrical system for
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical
problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index
for more information.

1-26

How the Air Bag Systems Work

Where are the air bags?

The driver’s frontal air bag is in the middle of the
steering wheel.

The right front passenger’s frontal air bag is in the
instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

1-27

The driver’s side impact air bag is in the side of the
driver’s seatback closest to the door .

1-28

The right front passenger’s side impact air bag is in the
side of the passenger’s seatback closest to the door .

The side impact air bags for the rear seat outboard
passenger positions are in the sides of the rear seatback
closest to the doors.

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. Don’t let seat covers block the inflation
path of a side impact air bag.

1-29

When should an air bag inflate?

The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags
are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or
near

-frontal crashes. But they are designed to inflate

only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed
“threshold level.”

In addition, your vehicle has “dual stage” frontal air
bags, which adjust the amount of restraint according to
crash severity. For moderate frontal impacts, these air
bags inflate at a level less than full deployment. For
more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs.
If the front of your vehicle goes straight into a wall that
doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level for the
reduced deployment is about 10 to 16 mph (18 to
26 km/h), and the threshold level for a full deployment
is about 18 to 24 mph (29 to 38.5 km/h). The threshold
level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so
that it can be somewhat above or below this range.

If your vehicle strikes something that will move or
deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be
higher. The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal
air bags are not designed to inflate in rollovers, rear
impacts, or in many side impacts because inflation
would not help the occupant.

The side impact air bags are designed to inflate in
moderate to severe side crashes. A side impact air bag
will inflate if the crash severity is above the system’s
designed “threshold level.” The threshold level can vary
with specific vehicle design. Side impact air bags are not
designed to inflate in frontal or near
rollovers or rear impacts, because inflation would not
help the occupant. A side impact air bag will only
deploy on the side of the vehicle that is struck.

-frontal impacts,

1-30

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. For
frontal air bags, inflation is determined by the angle of
the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in
frontal and near
bags, inflation is determined by the location and severity
of the impact.

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. For both
frontal and side impact air bags, 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, instrument panel and the side of the front
seatbacks and behind the rear seatbacks closest to
the door.

-frontal impacts. For side impact air

How does an air bag restrain?

In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions,
even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or
the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side
collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside
of the vehicle. The air bag supplements the protection
provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body,
stopping the occupant more gradually. But the frontal 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 the air bag. Side impact air bags would not help
you in many types of collisions, including frontal or
near frontal collisions, rollovers, and rear 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 near
collisions for the driver’s and right front passenger’s
frontal air bags, and only in moderate to severe side
collisions for the side impact air bags.

-frontal

1-31

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
steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, the
instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, the
side of the seatback closest to the door for the side
impact air bags
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 the vents in the deflated
air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver
from seeing or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it
stop people from leaving the vehicle.

-- will be hot for a short time. The parts

-- the

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 a door.

Your vehicle has a feature that will automatically unlock
the doors and turn the interior lamps on when the air
bags inflate (if battery power is available). You can lock
the doors again and turn the interior lamps off by using
the door lock and interior lamp controls.

1-32

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag,
windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the
right front passenger air bag.

D

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After an
air bag inflates, 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.

D

Your vehicle is equipped with an electronic frontal
sensor, which helps the sensing system distinguish
between a moderate frontal impact and a more
severe frontal impact. Your vehicle is also equipped
with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which
records information about the frontal 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
or in a near
records speed, engine rpm, brake and throttle data.

D

Let only qualified technicians work on your air
bag systems. Improper service can mean that an
air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer
for service.

-deployment crash. The module also

NOTICE:

If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the
right front passenger’s air bag, or the air bag
covering on the driver’s, right front passenger’ s
or rear seatback, the bag may not work properly.
You may have to replace the air bag module in
the steering wheel, both the air bag module and
the instrument panel for the right front
passenger’s air bag, or both the air bag module
and seatback for the side impact air bag. Do not
open or break the air bag coverings.

1-33

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the air bag systems in several places
around your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual
have information about servicing your vehicle and the
air bag systems. T o purchase a service manual, see
“Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

CAUTION:

For up to 10 seconds 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 yellow connectors. They are
probably part of the air bag systems. Be sure to
follow proper service procedures, and make sure
the person performing work for you is qualified
to do so.

The air bag systems do not need regular maintenance.

Safety Belt Pretensioners

Your vehicle has safety belt pretensioners. You’ll find
them on the buckle end of the safety belts for the
driver and right front passenger. They help the safety
belts reduce a person’s forward movement in a
moderate to severe crash in which the front of the
vehicle hits something.

Pretensioners work only once. If they activate in a crash,
you’ll need to get new ones, and probably other new
parts for your safety belt system. See “Replacing
Restraint System Parts After a Crash” in the Index.

Center Front Passenger Position

1-34

Lap Belt

If your vehicle has a front bench seat, someone can sit in
the center position.

When you sit in the center front 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.

T o 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 lap
see “Safety Belt Extender” 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.

-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough,

1-35

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 Passenger Positions

Lap-Shoulder Belt

All rear seating positions have lap
Here’s how to wear one properly.

-shoulder belts.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.

The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across
you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back
slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you
more slowly.

1-36

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 “Safety Belt

Extender” 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. T o make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

1-37

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,
or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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.

T o unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

1-38

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults

Rear shoulder belt comfort guides 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.

There is one guide for each outside passenger position in
the rear seat. T o 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 pocket on the top
of the seatback.

1-39

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.

1-40

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.

4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as
described in “Rear Seat Passenger Positions” earlier
in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt
crosses the shoulder.

T o remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the
belt edges together so that you can take them out of the
guides. Slide the guide into its storage pocket on the top
of the seatback.

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

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.

1-41

CAUTION:

People should never hold a baby in their arms
while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh
much

-- until a crash. During a crash a baby will

become so heavy it is not possible to hold it.

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

For example, in a crash at only 25 mph
(40 km/h), a 12
become a 240
arms. A baby should be secured in an
appropriate restraint.

-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly

-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s

1-42

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 lap
outstanding protection for adults and older
children, but not for young children and infants.
Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air
bag system is designed for them. Young children
and infants need the protection that a child
restraint system can provide.

-shoulder belts offer

Q: What are the different types of add-on

child restraints?

A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased 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.

1-43

CAUTION:

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
rear

-facing seat settles into the 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.

1-44

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.

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 rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the
seating surface against the back of the infant. The
harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash,
acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.

1-45

A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for
the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes
with surfaces such as T

-shaped or shelf-like shields.

1-46

A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to
improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some
booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some
high

-back booster seats have a five-point harness. A

booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.

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 built
permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add
child restraint system is a portable one, which is
purchased by the vehicle’s owner.

For many years, add
the adult belt system in the vehicle. T o help reduce
the chance of injury, the child also has to be
secured within the restraint. The vehicle’s belt
system secures the add
vehicle, and the add
system holds the child in place within the restraint.

One system, the three
come down over each of the infant’s shoulders and
buckle together at the crotch. The five
harness system has two shoulder straps, two hip
straps and a crotch strap. A shield may take the
place of hip straps. A T
straps that are attached to a flat pad which rests low
against the child’s body. A shelf
shield has straps that are attached to a wide,
shelf

-like shield that swings up or to the side.

-in child restraint system is a

-on

-on child restraints have used

-on child restraint in the

-on child restraint’s harness

-point harness, has straps that

-point

-shaped shield has shoulder

- or armrest-type

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 add-on child restraint, refer to the
instructions that come with the restraint which may be
on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this
manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so
if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from
the manufacturer.

1-47

Where to Put the Restraint

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 the rear seat including an infant
riding in a rear
forward
booster seat. Never put a rear
the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

-facing infant seat, a child riding in a

-facing child seat and an older child riding in a

-facing child restraint in

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the
back of the rear
very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure
a rear

-facing child restraint in a rear seat.

You may secure a forward-facing child restraint
in the right front seat, but before you do, always
move the front passenger seat as far back as it
will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in
a rear seat.

-facing child restraint would be

CAUTION:

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat
can be badly injured or killed by the right front
passenger air bag if it inflates. Never secure a
child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always
better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat.
You may secure a forward
in the right front passenger seat, but before you
do, always move the front passenger seat as far
back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child
restraint in a rear seat.

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

-facing child restraint

-- even when no child is in it.

1-48

Top Strap

Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.”
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 strap
designed for use with or without the top strap being
anchored. Others require the top strap always to be
anchored. Be sure to read and follow the instructions
for your child restraint. If yours requires that the top
strap be anchored, don’t use the restraint unless it is
anchored properly.

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.

-equipped child restraints are

In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child
restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be
anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also
have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it
should be anchored.

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.

1-49

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.

Your vehicle has top strap anchors already installed for
the rear seating positions. You’ll find them behind the
rear seat on the filler panel.

In order to get to a bracket, you’ll have to open the
trim cover.

Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System)

Your vehicle has the LATCH system. You’ll find
anchors (A) in all three rear seating positions.

T o assist you in locating the lower anchors for this child
restraint system, each seating position with the LATCH
system will have the LATCH system symbol on the
seatback directly above the anchors.

1-50

In order to use the system, you need either a
forward
points (B) at its base and a top tether anchor (C), or a
rear-facing child restraint that has attaching points (B),
as shown here.

A. Vehicle anchor
B. LATCH system attachment points
C. Top Strap

-facing child restraint that has attaching

A. Vehicle anchor
B. LATCH system attachment points
With this system, use the LATCH system instead of the

vehicle’s safety belts to secure a child restraint.

1-51

CAUTION:

If a LATCH-type child restraint isn’t attached to
its anchorage points, the restraint won’t be able
to protect a child sitting there. In a crash, the
child could be seriously injured or killed. Make
sure that a LATCH
properly installed using the anchorage points, or
use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the
restraint. See “Child Restraints” in the Index for
information on how to secure a child restraint in
your vehicle using the vehicle’s safety belts.

-type child restraint is

Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System

1. Find the anchors for the seating position you want to
use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back
of the seat cushion.

2. Put the child restraint on the seat.

3. Attach the anchor points on the child restraint to the
anchors in the vehicle. The child restraint
instructions will show you how.

4. If the child restraint is forward
strap to the top strap anchor. See “Top Strap” in the
Index. Tighten the top strap according to the child
restraint instructions.

5. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.

T o remove the child restraint, simply unhook the top
strap from the top tether anchor and then disconnect the
anchor points.

-facing, attach the top

1-52

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position

If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH
system, see “Lower Anchorages and T op Tethers for
Children (LATCH)” in the Index.

CAUTION:

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat
can be badly injured or killed by the right front
passenger air bag if it inflates. Never secure a
child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always
better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat.
You may secure a forward
in the right front passenger seat, but before you
do, always move the front passenger seat as far
back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child
restraint in the rear seat.

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part
about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 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.

-facing child restraint

1-53

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.

1-54

4. T o tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while
you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using
a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it
helpful to use your knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.

5. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.

T o 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.

1-55

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH
system, see “Lower Anchorages and T op Tethers for
Children (LATCH)” in the Index.

Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never
put a rear

-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the
back of the rear
very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure
a rear

-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

-facing child restraint would be

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a
forward

You’ll be using the lap
about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 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.

1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air

2. Put the restraint on the seat.

3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

-shoulder belt. See the earlier part

bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go
before securing a forward
See “Seats” in the Index.

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.

-facing child restraint.

1-56

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.

1-57

6. T o 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.

T o 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.

1-58

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 lap
get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

-shoulder belt and

Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?

A: If possible, an older child should wear a

lap

-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a

shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should
not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit
snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the
thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen,
which could cause severe or even fatal internal
injuries in a crash.

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.

1-59

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 lap-shoulder belt,

but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is
very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: If the child is sitting in a seat next to a window,

move the child toward the center of the vehicle. If
the child is sitting in the center rear seat passenger
position, move the child toward the safety belt
buckle. In either case, 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 “Rear Safety Belt Comfort
Guides” 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.

1-60

CAUTION:

Never do this.
Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a

lap

-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind

the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in
a crash the child might slide under the belt. The
belt’s force would then be applied right on the
child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or
fatal injuries.

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.

1-61

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. T o 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.

T orn 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 or LATCH
system parts?

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 the LATCH system was being used during a more
severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts.

If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision
damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH
system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced.
New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the
belt or LATCH system 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.

If the frontal air bags inflate, you’ll also need to replace
the driver’s and right front passenger’s safety belt
buckle assembly. Be sure to do so. Then the new buckle
assembly will be there to help protect you in a collision.

1-62

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 -- and what to do if you have a problem.

-2 Windows

2
2

-5 Keys

-7 Door Locks

2
2

-10 Remote Keyless Entry System

-14 Trunk

2
2

-17 Theft

2

-18 Theft-Deterrent System

-20 PASS-Key

2
2

-22 New Vehicle “Break-In”

-23 Ignition Positions

2
2

-25 Starting Your Engine

2

-26 Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

-28 Automatic Transaxle Operation

2
2

-34 Parking Brake

-36 Shifting Into PARK (P)

2
2

-39 Shifting Out of PARK (P)

-39 Parking Over Things That Burn

2
2

-40 Engine Exhaust

2

-40 Running Your Engine While You’re Parked

2-

R

III

2

-41 Tilt Wheel

2

-43 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

-50 Exterior Lamps

2
2

-56 Interior Lamps

-59 Mirrors

2
2

-63 Storage Compartments

2

-67 Rear Power Sunshade (If Equipped)

-70 Cellular T elephone (Option)

2
2

-70 OnStar

2

-74 Sunroof (Option)

2

-75 HomeLink

-78 The Instrument Panel -- Your

2
2

-85 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

2

-100 Driver Information Center (DIC)

2

-129 Navigation (Option)

-130 Night V ision System (Option)

2
2

-133 Ultrasonic Rear Parking

R

System (If Equipped)

R

Transmitter (If Equipped)

Information System

Assist (URPA) (Option)

2-1

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.

2-2

Power Windows

Express

This feature is on all power windows. Press the down
arrow on the switch to the second position to activate the
express
it is lowering, press the up arrow on the switch once.

-Down Window

-down feature. If you want to stop the window as

The power window switches are located on the armrest
near each window. Press the up or down arrows on the
switches to raise or lower the windows.

Your vehicle has Retained Accessory Power (RAP) that
allows you to use the power windows once the ignition
has been turned off. For more information, see
“Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.

Express

This feature is on both front power windows. Press the
up arrow on the switch to the second position to activate
the express
as it is raising, press the down arrow on the switch once.

-Up Window

-up feature. If you want to stop the window

2-3

Anti-Pinch Feature

If a hand, an arm or another object is above the middle
of the window and is in the path of the window when
the express
at the obstruction and express
factory position.

-up feature is active, the window will stop

-open to a preset

CAUTION:

Pressing and holding the power window control
will turn off the anti
happens, a power window won’t stop if
something gets in the way. You or others could
be injured, and your window could be damaged.
Be careful not to press and hold the power
window control.

-pinch feature. If this

Rear Window Lockout

The rear window lockout
button is located below the
power window switches on
the driver’s door armrest.

Pressing this button will disable the rear window
controls. The light on the button will illuminate,
indicating that the feature is in use. The rear windows
can be raised or lowered using the driver’s window
switches when the lockout feature is active.

T o restore power to the rear windows, press the button
again. The light on the button will go out.

2-4

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. If they
turned the ignition to ACCESSORY or ON and
moved the shift lever out of PARK (P), that
would release the parking brake. Don’t leave the
keys in a vehicle with children.

2-5

Master Key Valet Key

There is a master key that works all of the lock cylinders
(driver’s door, trunk, ignition and glove box).

There is also a VALET key which only operates the
driver’s door and the ignition.

R

-Key

Your vehicle has the PASS
system. Both the master and VALET key have a
transponder in the key head that matches a decoder in
the vehicle’s steering column. If a replacement key or
any additional key is needed, you must purchase this key
from your dealer. The key will have PK3 stamped on it.

III vehicle theft

Keep the bar code tag that came with the original keys.
Give this tag to your dealer if you need a new key made.

Any new PASS
before it will start your vehicle. See “PASS
in the Index for more information on programming your
new key.

-Key III key must be programmed

-Key III”

NOTICE:

Your vehicle has a number of new features that
can help prevent theft. 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.

In an emergency, contact Cadillac Roadside Assistance.
See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index.

If your vehicle is equipped with the OnStar system with
an active subscription and you lock your keys inside the
vehicle, OnStar may be able to send a command to
unlock your vehicle. See “OnStar” in the Index for
more information.

2-6

Door Locks

CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

D

Passengers -- especially children -- can
easily open the doors and fall out of a
moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the
handle won’t open it. You increase the
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.

D

Young 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.

D

Outsiders 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.
Because your vehicle has the theft

must unlock the doors with the key or remote keyless
entry transmitter to avoid setting off the alarm.

From the outside, use either the key or the remote
keyless entry transmitter.

Push down on the manual lock lever to lock the door. To
unlock the door, pull up on the lever.

-deterrent system, you

From the inside, use the
manual lock levers located
on the door panels.

2-7

Central Door Unlocking System

Your vehicle has a central door unlocking mode and a
theft

-deterrent system. When unlocking the driver’s

door, you can unlock the other doors by holding the key
in the turned position for a few seconds or by quickly
turning the door key twice in the lock cylinder.

Power Door Locks

The power door lock
switches are located
on the door panels
near the windows.

Press the bottom part of the power door lock switch
located on either front door to lock all the doors at once.
Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors at once.

The power door lock switches located on the rear doors
can also lock all the doors at once by pressing the
bottom part of them, but they cannot unlock the doors.

Automatic Door Locks

Your vehicle is programmed so that when the doors are
closed, the ignition is on and the shift lever is moved out
of PARK (P), all the doors will lock. The doors will
unlock every time you stop the vehicle and move the
shift lever back into PARK (P).

If someone needs to get out while your vehicle is not in
PARK (P), have that person use the manual lever or
power door lock switch. When the door is closed again,
it will not lock automatically. Use the manual lever or
power lock switch to lock the door.

Programmable Automatic Door Locks

With the vehicle in PARK (P) and the ignition in ON,
the door locks can be programmed through prompts
displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC).
These prompts allow the driver to choose various lock
and unlock settings. For programming information, see
“Vehicle Programming and Personalization Features” in
the Index.

2-8

Rear Door Security Locks

Your vehicle is equipped with rear door security locks
that prevent passengers from opening the rear doors on
your vehicle from the inside.

The rear door security
locks are located on the
edge of each rear door.
You must open the doors
to access them.

T o use these locks, do the following:

1. Turn the knob located on the passenger’s side
rear door clockwise all the way down to the
ENGAGED position.

2. Close the door.

3. Turn the knob located on the driver’s side rear door
counterclockwise all the way down to the
ENGAGED position.

The rear doors on your vehicle cannot be opened from
the inside when this feature is in use.

When you want to open a rear door when the security
lock is on, do the following:

1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless entry
transmitter, the front door power lock switch or by
lifting the rear door manual lock.

2. Then open the door from the outside.

T o cancel the rear door security lock, do the following:

1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside.

2. Turn the knob on the passenger’s side of the rear
door counterclockwise all the way back to the
original position.

3. Turn the knob on the driver’s side of the rear door
clockwise all the way back to the original position.

The rear door locks will now work normally.

Anti-Lockout Feature

Leaving your key in any ignition position with any door
open will disable the power door lock switches as well
as the lock button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter. If you close the doors, you can lock them
using the remote keyless entry transmitter. It is always
recommended that you remove the ignition key when
locking your vehicle.

The anti
the power door lock switch for three seconds or longer.

-lockout feature can be overridden by holding

2-9

Leaving Your Vehicle

If you are leaving the vehicle, open the door, set the
locks from the inside, get out and close the door.

Remote Keyless Entry System

If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock
your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m)
up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry
transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Your remote keyless entry transmitter 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 RSS
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(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.

-210 of Industry Canada.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an
authorized service facility could void authorization to
use this equipment.

The average range of this system is about 10 feet (3 m).
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is
normal for any remote keyless entry transmitter. If the
transmitter does not work or if you have to stand
closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try
the following:

D

Check the distance. You may be too far from your
vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy
or snowy weather.

D

Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be
blocking the signal. T ake a few steps to the left or
right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.

D

Check to determine if battery replacement is
necessary. See the instructions that follow.

D

If you’re still having trouble, see your dealer or a
qualified technician for service.

2-10

Operation

(Lock): When you press

this symbol to lock the
doors, the parking lamps
will flash once and the horn
will sound. This arms the
theft

-deterrent system.

The parking lamps will not flash, however, if the manual
parking lamps are left on. Remote confirmation is not
operational if a door is open.

You can program your vehicle so the parking lamps
will not flash and the horn will not sound. For more
information, see “Lock/Unlock Confirmation” in
the Index.

(Unlock): When you press this symbol to unlock

the driver’s door, the parking lamps on your vehicle will
flash twice. The parking lamps will not flash if they
have been turned on manually. Remote confirmation is
not operational if a door is open.

Press this button again within one to five seconds
to unlock the other doors. It will also disarm the
theft

-deterrent system and turn on the interior

lamps at night.
You can program your vehicle so the parking lamps will

not flash. For more information, see “Lock/Unlock
Confirmation” in the Index.

(Panic Alarm): The remote keyless entry

transmitter comes equipped with an instant panic alarm.
T o use the alarm, press the horn symbol when the
ignition is turned off. The horn will sound and the
exterior lamps will flash for up to 30 seconds. T o stop
the instant panic alarm, press the symbol again or turn
the ignition to ON.

(Trunk): Press this button to open the trunk. The

valet lockout switch must be off for this feature to work.
The remote keyless entry transmitter can be used to

recall the memory settings for up to two drivers. For
more information, see “Vehicle Programming and
Personalization Features” and “Memory Seat, Mirrors
and Steering Wheel” in the Index.

2-11

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.

Vehicles are delivered with two transmitters. See
your dealer for information on how to obtain
additional transmitters.

Battery Replacement

Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless
entry transmitter should last about four 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.

2-12

1. Use an object like a coin to pry open the transmitter.

2. Once the transmitter is separated, use an object
like a pencil to remove the old battery. Do not use a
metal object.

3. Insert the new battery as the instructions under the
cover indicate.

4. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure
no moisture can enter.

5. Press any button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter to resynchronize the transmitter.

6. Check the operation of the transmitter.

2-13

Trunk

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid
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 trunk lid open or if
electrical wiring or other cable connections must
pass through the seal between the body and the
trunk lid:

D

Make sure all other windows are shut.

D

Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed with the setting
on AUTO and the temperature between
65_F (18_C) and 85_F (29_C). That will
force outside air into your vehicle. See
“Comfort Controls” in the Index.

D

If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Trunk Lock Release

The trunk lock release
button is located to the left
of the steering wheel on the
instrument panel.

Press the button to open the trunk. T o use this feature,
your vehicle must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
and the valet lockout switch must be off.

You can also press the button with the trunk symbol on
the remote keyless entry transmitter to open the trunk.
T o disable this feature, see “Valet Lockout Switch” in
the Index.

2-14

Rear Seat Pass-Through Door (If Equipped)

The button for this
feature is located
in the trunk.

The rear
door to open. T o release the pass
PUSH button located in the center of the trunk panel.

-seat armrest must be down for the pass-thru

-through door, press the

The rear seat pass-through door can also be opened from
inside the vehicle. The rear seat armrest must be down
for the pass-through door to open.

T o release the pass
with your fingers. Then close the door so it latches from
inside the vehicle.

-through door, move the release up

2-15

Trunk Lid Tie Down

CAUTION:

Driving with the trunk lid open can allow
dangerous CO (carbon monoxide) gas to come
into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It
can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you
ever need to drive with your trunk lid open, then:

D

Make sure all windows, the rear seat
pass

-through and sunroof are closed.

D

Turn the fan on your heating and cooling
system to its highest speed, with the
setting on AUTO and temperature between
65_F (18_C) and 85_F (29_C). This forces
fresh outside air into your vehicle.

D

Open all air ducts on the instrument panel.

Don’t use the trunk lid tie down if you are towing
a trailer because of the danger of CO.

This feature is used to secure the trunk lid if it will not
close completely, such as when carrying large packages in
the trunk. Use the following steps to secure the trunk lid:

1. Attach the clip end of the tie down to the D ring on
the trunk lid (A).

2. Attach the hook end of the tie down to the striker
located at the center of the trunk sill (B).

3. Tighten the tie down by pulling the free end of the
cord until secure.

4. T o remove the tie down, press the clip end release
and loosen the cord.

2-16

Trunk Release Handle

NOTICE:

The trunk release handle was not designed to be
used to tie down the trunk lid or as an anchor
point when securing items in the trunk. Improper
use of the trunk release handle could damage it.

There is a glow-in-the-dark trunk release handle located
inside the trunk near the latch. This handle will glow
following exposure to light. Pull the release handle
upward to open the trunk from the inside.

Theft

Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
Although your vehicle has a number of theft
features, we know that nothing we put on it can make
it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you
can help.

Key in the Ignition

If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an
easy target for joy riders or professional thieves
don’t do it.

When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door,
you’ll hear a chime 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 transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.

-deterrent

-- so

2-17

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
ignition key?

D

If possible, park in a busy, well

D

Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk
or glove box.

D

Be sure to close and lock the storage area.

D

Close all windows.

D

Move the valet lockout switch to ON.

D

Lock the glove box.

D

Leave only the valet key.

D

T ake all other keys and the remote keyless entry
transmitter with you.

-lit area.

Theft-Deterrent System

The SECURITY light is
located on the instrument
panel cluster.

If the ignition is off and any door is open, the SECURITY
light will flash, reminding you to arm the system.

T o arm the system, do the following:

1. Open the door.

2. Lock the door using the power door lock switch with
the door open or the remote keyless entry transmitter.
The SECURITY light should come on and stay on.

3. Close all the doors. The SECURITY light should go
off within approximately 30 seconds.

If a door or a trunk is opened without a key or a remote
keyless entry transmitter, the horn will sound and the
lamps will flash for about 30 seconds.

2-18

Remember, the theft-deterrent system won’t arm if you
lock the doors with a key or use the manual door lock. It
activates only if you use a power door lock with the
door open or the remote keyless entry transmitter.

T o avoid activating the alarm by accident do
the following:

D

The vehicle should be locked with the door key or
the manual door lock after the doors are closed if
you don’t want to arm the theft

D

Always unlock a door with a key or use the remote
keyless entry transmitter system. Pressing the unlock
button on the remote keyless entry transmitter
disables the theft-deterrent system. Unlocking a door
any other way will activate the alarm when a door or
the trunk is opened.

If you activate the alarm by accident, unlock the driver’s
door with your key. You can also turn off the alarm
by using the unlock button on the remote keyless
entry transmitter system, or by starting the car with a
valid key.

Changes or modifications made to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use the theft system.

-deterrent system.

Testing the Alarm

1. From inside the vehicle, roll down the window, then
get out of the vehicle, keeping the door open.

2. From outside of the vehicle, with the door open,
lock the vehicle using the power door lock or the
remote keyless entry system and close the door.
Wait 30 seconds until the SECURITY lamp goes off.

3. Reach in and unlock the door using the manual lock
and open the door. The horn will sound and the
hazard lights will flash.

You can turn off the alarm by unlocking the driver’s
door with your key, using the unlock button on the
remote keyless entry transmitter or by starting the car
with a valid key.

If the alarm does not sound when it should, check to see
if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. T o
replace the fuse, see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the
Index. If the fuse does not need to be replaced, you may
need to have your vehicle serviced.

T o reduce the possibility of theft, always arm the
theft

-deterrent system when leaving your vehicle.

2-19

Valet Lockout Switch

PASS-KeyR III

The valet lockout switch
is located inside the
glove box.

Press the switch to ON to disable the use of the trunk,
fuel door, garage door opener and cellular telephone
(option). The remote keyless entry transmitter cannot
open the trunk if the valet lockout switch is in ON.

Press this switch to OFF to enable the use of the
trunk, fuel door, garage door opener and cellular
telephone (option).

Locking the glove box with your key will also help to
secure your vehicle.

Your vehicle is equipped
with the PASS
(Personalized Automotive
Security System)

-deterrent system.

theft
PASS

-Key III is a passive

theft

-deterrent system. This

means you don’t have to do
anything different to arm or
disarm the system. It works
when you insert or remove
the key from the ignition.

Your PASS
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.

-Key III system operates on a radio

-Key III

2-20

This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(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.

PASS

-Key III uses a radio frequency transponder in

the key that matches a decoder in your vehicle.
When the PASS

using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter
and fuel systems. The starter will not work and fuel will
stop being delivered to the engine. Anyone using a
trial-and-error method to start the vehicle will be
discouraged because of the high number of electrical
key codes.

When trying to start the vehicle, if the engine does not
start and the SECURITY light comes on, the key may
have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off and
try again.

-Key III system senses that someone is

If the engine does not start, and the key appears to be
undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you
may also want to check the fuse. See “Fuses and Circuit
Breakers” in the Index. If the engine still does not start
with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your
vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See your
dealer who can service the PASS
key made.

It is possible for the PASS
transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to
10 additional keys may be programmed for the vehicle.
This procedure is for learning additional keys only.

Canadian Owners: If you lose or damage your keys,
only a GM dealer can service PASS
keys made. T o program additional keys you will require
two current driver’s keys (black in color). You must add
a step to the following procedure. After Step 2, repeat
Steps 1 and 2 with the second current driver’s key.
Then continue with Step 3.

T o program the new key do the following:

1. Verify that the new key has PK3 stamped on it.

2. Insert the current driver’s key in the ignition and
start the engine. If the engine will not start see your
dealer for service.

-Key III to have a new

-Key III decoder to learn the

-Key III to have new

2-21

3. After the engine has started, turn the key to OFF, and
remove the key.

4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to ON
within ten seconds of removing the previous key.

5. The SECURITY light will turn off once the key has
been programmed. It may not be apparent that the
SECURITY light went on due to how quickly the
key is programmed.

6. Repeat the Steps 1 through 4 if additional keys are to
be programmed.

If you are ever driving and the SECURITY light
comes on and stays on, you will be able to restart your
engine if you turn it off. Your PASS
however, is not working properly and must be serviced
by your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the
PASS

-Key III system at this time.

If you lose or damage a PASS
dealer to have a new key made.

In an emergency, contact Cadillac Roadside Assistance.
See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index.

-Key III system,

-Key III key, see your

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate
“break

-in.” But it will perform better in the long

run if you follow these guidelines:

D

Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or
slow

-- for the first 500 miles (805 km).

Don’t make full

D

Avoid 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 breaking
time you get new brake linings.

D

Don’t tow a trailer during break
See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for
more information.

-throttle starts.

-in guideline every

-in.

2-22

Ignition Positions

With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the key
to four different positions.

If you cannot start your vehicle and you are unable to
remove your key from the ignition, see “Shift Lock
Release” in the Index.

NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in OFF 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. But 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.

A (OFF): This is the only position in which you can

insert or remove the key. This position locks the
ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a
theft

-deterrent feature.

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B (ACCESSORY): This position allows you to use

things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the
engine is off. This position will allow you to turn off the
engine, but still turn the steering wheel. If your vehicle
has a column shifter, you will still be able to move the
shift lever. Use ACCESSORY if you must have your
vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if
your vehicle is being pushed or towed).

C (ON): This position is for driving. If your vehicle has
a console shifter and you turn off the engine, the
transaxle will lock. If you need to shift the transaxle out
of PARK (P), the ignition key has to be in ON.

D (START): This position starts the engine.

Retained Accessory Power (RAP)

The following accessories on your vehicle may be used
for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned
from ON to OFF:

D

Cellular T elephone (Option)

D

Radio

D

Power Windows

D

Audio Steering Wheel Controls

D

Sunroof (Option)

Power to these accessories stops after 10 minutes or
if a door is opened. If you want power for another
10 minutes, close all the doors and turn the ignition key
to ON and then back to OFF. If the cellular phone is
being used while retained accessory power is active, the
timer is suspended to avoid interruption of the call.
The timer resets to 10 minutes at the end of the call.

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Starting Your Engine

Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine won’t start in any other position
safety feature. T o restart when you’re already moving,
use NEUTRAL (N) only.

-- that’s a

NOTICE:

Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is
moving. If you do, you could damage the
transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your
vehicle is stopped.

1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to STAR T. 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, hold your
key in START for about 10 seconds at a time until
your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between
each try.

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3. 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
STAR T for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts
briefly but then stops again, do the same thing.

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.

Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

A. Engine Oil Dipstick Location
B. Engine Coolant Heater Cord
C. Transaxle Dipstick/Fluid Fill Location

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In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the
engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting
and better fuel economy during engine warm-up.
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 electrical cord is located on the driver’s side of

the engine, behind the transaxle dipstick/fluid fill
location (C) and next to the engine.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110

-volt AC outlet.

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 three
110

-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a

heavy

-duty three-prong extension cord rated for

at least 15 amps.

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.

-prong

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Automatic Transaxle Operation

The automatic transaxle may have a shift lever located
on either the steering column or on the console between
the seats.

There are several
different positions for
the shift lever.

Console Shifter

Column Shifter (Digital and Analog Cluster similar)

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PARK (P): This position locks the front wheels. It’s the

best position to use when you start the 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.

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 “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index.
If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer”

in the Index.

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before
starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic
transaxle 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 ON. If you
cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift
lever

-- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P)

as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift
lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of
PARK (P)” in the Index.

REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is
moving forward could damage your transaxle.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle
has stopped.

Also use this gear to rock your vehicle back and forth to
get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your
transaxle. See “Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the
Index for additional information.

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NEUTRAL (N): In this position, the engine doesn’t

connect with the wheels. T o 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 “racing” (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 transaxle caused by shifting out
of P ARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine
racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B): This position is

for normal driving. If you need more power for passing,
and you’re:

D

Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push the
accelerator pedal about halfway down.

D

Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the
accelerator all the way down.

The transaxle will shift down to the next gear and
have more power.

NOTICE:

If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or
if it doesn’t seem to shift gears as you accelerate,
something may be wrong with a transaxle system
sensor. If you drive very far that way, your
vehicle can be damaged. So if this happens, have
your vehicle serviced right away. Until then, you
can use SECOND (2) when you are driving less
than 35 mph (55 km/h) and AUTOMATIC
OVERDRIVE (B) for higher speeds.

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THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal

driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel
economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B).

Here are examples for using THIRD (3) instead of
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B).

D

When driving on hilly, winding roads.

D

When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears.

D

When going down a steep hill.

SECOND (2): This position gives you more power. 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.

NOTICE:

Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going
slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can
damage your engine.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power

than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills,
or in deep snow or mud. (If the shift lever is put in
FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until
the vehicle is going slowly enough.)

NOTICE:

If your front wheels can’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 transaxle.

Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold
your vehicle there with only the accelerator
pedal. This could cause overheating and damage
the transaxle. Use your brakes to hold your
vehicle in position on a hill.

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Performance Shifting (DTS Only)

When your vehicle detects a change in driving
conditions, it will automatically initiate the appropriate
performance shift mode. When this occurs, the gear
display on the instrument panel cluster will change to
indicate that the transaxle has shifted to a different gear.
For example, the gear display on the cluster may
indicate 3 or 2 even though the gearshift is still in
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B). Once the
performance shift mode ends, the gear display on the
instrument panel cluster will return to normal.

Shift Lock Release

This vehicle is equipped with an electric shift lock
release system. The shift lock release is designed to
do the following:

D

Prevent the ignition key from being removed unless
the shift lever is in PARK (P), and

D

prevent movement of the console shift lever
(DTS only) out of PARK (P) unless the ignition is
in a position other than OFF. The shift lock release is
always functional except in the case of a dead battery
or low voltage (less than 9 V) battery.

If your vehicle has a dead battery or a battery with low
voltage, there is a procedure that will allow you to
override the shift lock release.

The following procedure allows the ignition to be turned
to OFF and for ignition key removal in case of a dead
battery or low voltage battery.

1. Verify that the shift lever is in PARK (P).

2. Locate the override
access slot underneath
the steering column
below the lock cylinder.

3. Remove the override access slot cap.

4. Insert a tool into the access slot, press in and hold.

5. Turn the ignition key to OFF.

6. Remove the tool from the slot.

7. Remove the key from the ignition.

8. Reinstall the override access slot cap.

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