Cadillac Escalade EXT 2010 User Manual

2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT Owner Manual M

In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1

Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . 1-4

Vehicle Features . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . .. 1-17

Performance and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 1-23

Seats and Restraint System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... . 2-1

Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . 2-2

Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . 2-9

Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . 2-10

Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 2-30

Airbag System . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . 2-51

Restraint System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-66

Features and Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 3-1

Keys . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . 3-3

Doors and Locks . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... 3-9

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . 3-22

Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 3-26

Starting and Operating Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . .. 3-30

Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . 3-45

Object Detection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . 3-48

Universal Home Remote System . .... . . . . . . . . ... 3-54

Storage Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......... 3-60

Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . 3-77

Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 4-1

Instrument Panel Overview . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 4-3

Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . 4-20

Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . 4-25

Driver Information Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 4-39

Audio System(s) . .... . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . 4-66

Navigation System . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 5-1

Overview . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . 5-2

Features and Controls . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-12

Navigation Audio System . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .. . . . 5-59

Voice Recognition . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-87

Driving Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1

Your Driving, the Road, and the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 6-2

Towing . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . 6-39

2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT Owner Manual M

Service and Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . 7-4

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 7-6

Checking Things Under the Hood . .... . . . . . . . . . . 7-12

All-Wheel Drive . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 7-47

Rear Axle . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . ... 7-48

Front Axle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-49

Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 7-50

Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . 7-53

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement . ........ . . 7-56

Tires . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 7-57

Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . .. . 7-96

Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . 7-104

Electrical System . .... . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . 7-104

Capacities and Specifications . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 7-112

Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . 8-1

Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 8-2

Customer Assistance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1

Customer Assistance and Information . ... . . . .. . . . 9-2

Reporting Safety Defects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... 9-16

Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-18

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
CADILLAC, the CADILLAC Crest & Wreath, and the
names ESCALADE and EXT are registered trademarks
of General Motors.

This manual describes features that may or may not
be on your specific vehicle either because they are
options that you did not purchase or due to changes
subsequent to the printing of this owner manual.
Please refer to the purchase documentation relating to
your specific vehicle to confirm each of the features
found on your vehicle. For vehicles first sold in Canada,
substitute the name “General Motors of Canada
Limited” for Cadillac Motor Division wherever it appears
in this manual.

Keep this manual in the vehicle for quick reference.

Canadian Owners

Propriétaires Canadiens

A French language copy of this manual can be obtained
from your dealer/retailer or from:

On peut obtenir un exemplaire de ce guide en français
auprès du concessionnaire ou à l'adresse suivante:

Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207

1-800-551-4123

Numéro de poste 6438 de langue française

www.helminc.com

Index

To quickly locate information about the vehicle, use the
index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list
of what is in the manual and the page number where it
can be found.

Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 25854765 A First Printing

©

2009 General Motors. All Rights Reserved.

iii

Safety Warnings and Symbols

Warning messages found on vehicle labels and in this
manual describe hazards and what to do to avoid or
reduce them.

Danger indicates a hazard with a high level of risk
which will result in serious injury or death.

Warning or Caution indicates a hazard that could result
in injury or death.

WARNING:

{

These mean there is something that could hurt
you or other people.

Notice: This means there is something that could
result in property or vehicle damage. This would not
be covered by the vehicle's warranty.

A circle with a slash
through it is a safety
symbol which means “Do
Not,” “Do not do this,” or
“Do not let this happen.”

Vehicle Symbols

The vehicle has components and labels that use
symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with
the text describing the operation or information relating
to a specific component, control, message, gage,
or indicator.

M : This symbol is shown when you need to see your

owner manual for additional instructions or information.

* : This symbol is shown when you need to see a

service manual for additional instructions or information.

iv

Vehicle Symbol Chart

Here are some additional symbols that may be found on
the vehicle and what they mean. For more information
on the symbol, refer to the index.

0 : Adjustable Pedals
9 : Airbag Readiness Light
# : Air Conditioning
! : Antilock Brake System (ABS)
g : Audio Steering Wheel Controls or OnStar

®

$ : Brake System Warning Light
" : Charging System

I : Cruise Control

B : Engine Coolant Temperature

O : Exterior Lamps

# : Fog Lamps

. : Fuel Gage

+ : Fuses

i : Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer

j : LATCH System Child Restraints

* : Malfunction Indicator Lamp
: : Oil Pressure

g : Outside Power Foldaway Mirrors
} : Power

/ : Remote Vehicle Start

> : Safety Belt Reminders

7 : Tire Pressure Monitor

_ : Tow/Haul Mode

F : Traction Control
M : Windshield Washer Fluid

v

2 NOTES

vi

Section 1 In Brief

Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ .. 1-2

Initial Drive Information . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System . . .. . . . . . . . 1-4

Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

Door Locks . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 1-5

Midgate

®

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Tailgate . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . 1-6

Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6

Seat Adjustment . .... . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . 1-7

Second Row Seats . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . 1-8

Heated Seats . ..... . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-9

Head Restraint Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ . . . . . . . . . . 1-10

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag . . ... . . . . 1-10

Mirror Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-11

Steering Wheel Adjustment . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . 1-12

Interior Lighting . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Windshield Wiper/Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16

Transmission . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-16

Vehicle Features . . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Satellite Radio . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Portable Audio Devices . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . 1-17

Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . 1-18

Bluetooth

®

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... 1-19

Navigation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... . . 1-19

Driver Information Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 1-19

Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 1-21

Rear Vision Camera (RVC) . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-21

Ultrasonic Parking Assist . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . . . . 1-22

Power Outlets . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 1-22

Universal Remote System . .... . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . 1-22

Performance and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

StabiliTrak

®

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

Engine Oil Life System . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 1-24

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

Driving for Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

Roadside Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

®

OnStar

. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . 1-25

1-1

Instrument Panel

1-2

A. Outlet Adjustment on page 4‑24.

B. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 4‑4.

C. Hazard Warning Flashers on page 4‑3.

D. Instrument Panel Cluster on page 4‑26.

E. Shift Lever/Tow/Haul Selector Button. See

Automatic Transmission Operation

on page 3‑35

and Tow/Haul Mode on page 3‑39.

F. Analog Clock on page 4‑20.

G. Audio System(s)

System

on page 5‑59

on page 4‑66

(If Equipped).

. Navigation Audio

H. Exterior Lamps on page 4‑10.

I. Dome Lamp Override on page 4‑17.

J. Cruise Control on page 4‑7.

K. Tilt Wheel on page 4‑3.

L. Horn on page 4‑3.

M. Audio Steering Wheel Controls on page 4‑88.

N. Driver Information Center (DIC) Buttons. See

Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 4‑39.

O. Pedal Adjust Button. See Adjustable Throttle and

Brake Pedal

on page 3‑34

. Heated Windshield

Washer Fluid Button (If Equipped). See Windshield

Washer

on page 4‑6

. Power Running Boards
Disable Button (If Equipped). See Power Assist
Steps on page 3‑21.

P. Dual Automatic Climate Control System

page 4‑20
page 2‑5

Q. StabiliTrak

. Heated and Cooled Seats

(If Equipped).

®

System

on page 6‑6

on

on

. Ultrasonic

Rear Parking Assist (URPA) on page 3‑48.

R. Glove Box on page 3‑60.

1-3

Initial Drive Information

This section provides a brief overview about some of
the important features that may or may not be on your
specific vehicle.

For more detailed information, refer to each of the
features which can be found later in this owner manual.

Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

The RKE transmitter is used to remotely lock and
unlock the doors from up to 60 m (195 feet) away from
the vehicle.

Press K to unlock the
driver door. Press

again within five seconds
to unlock all remaining
doors.

Press

Q to lock all doors.

Lock and unlock feedback can be personalized.

L and release to locate the vehicle.

Press

L and hold for three seconds to sound the

Press
panic alarm.

Press

L again to cancel the panic alarm.

See Keys
(RKE) System Operation on page 3‑4.

on page 3‑3

and Remote Keyless Entry

K

1-4

Remote Vehicle Start

With this feature the engine can be started from outside
of the vehicle.

Starting the Vehicle

1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle.

2. Press

3. Immediately after completing Step 2, press and

When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps will turn
on and remain on as long as the engine is running.
The doors will be locked and the climate control system
may come on.

The engine will continue to run for 10 minutes. Repeat
the steps for a 10-minute time extension. Remote start
can be extended only once.

Canceling a Remote Start

To cancel a remote start:

.

.

.

See Remote Vehicle Start on page 3‑7.

Q .

hold

/ until the turn signal lamps flash.

Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press
and hold

Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

Turn the ignition on and then back off.

/ until the parking lamps turn off.

Door Locks

There are several ways to lock and unlock the vehicle.

From outside, use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter or the key in the driver door. From inside,
use the power door locks or the manual door locks.
To lock or unlock the door with the manual locks,
push down or pull up on the manual lock knob.

Power Door Locks

If available, these switches are located on the front
doors.

K : Press to unlock the doors.
Q : Remove the key from the ignition and press to lock

the doors.

For more information, see:

.

Programmable Automatic Door Locks
page 3‑10

.

Rear Door Security Locks on page 3‑10.

.

on

1-5

Midgate

This vehicle is equipped with a Midgate®and a
removable rear glass panel. The Midgate allows you to
extend the length of the vehicle's cargo area.

For more information see Midgate

®

®

on page 3‑12.

Tailgate

Use the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter or
power door lock switch to lock and unlock the tailgate.

Open the tailgate by lifting up on its handle while pulling
the tailgate toward you.

To close the tailgate, push it firmly upward until it
latches. Push and pull on the tailgate to be sure it is
latched securely.

Tailgate Removal

The tailgate is not to be removed. This may cause
damage to the electrical connector resulting in a loss of
lock/unlock and rear vision camera function.

See Tailgate on page 3‑21.

Windows

The power window
switches are located
on the driver door.
In addition, each
passenger door has a
switch for its own window.

Press the switch to lower the window. Pull the switch
up to raise it.

For more information, see:

.

Windows on page 3‑22.

.

Power Windows on page 3‑23.

1-6

Seat Adjustment

Front Seats

Power Seats

Raise or lower the entire seat by moving the entire
control up or down.

See Power Seats on page 2‑3.

Power Lumbar

The power seat controls are located on the outboard
side of the front seats.

Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding the control
forward or rearward.

Raise or lower the front or rear part of the cushion by
moving the front or rear part of the control up or down.

To increase lumbar support, press and hold the front of
the control. To decrease, press and hold the rear of the
control.

To raise the height of the support, press and hold the
top of the control. To lower, press and hold the bottom
of the control.

See Power Lumbar on page 2‑4.

1-7

Power Reclining Seatbacks

Memory Features

The controls for this
feature are located on the
driver door, and are used
to program and recall
memory settings for the
driver seat, outside
mirrors, steering wheel
position, and the
adjustable throttle and
brake pedal feature, if the
vehicle has it.

To recline the seatback, tilt the top of the control
rearward.

To bring the seatback forward, tilt the top of the control
forward.

See Power Reclining Seatbacks on page 2‑7.

1-8

For more information, see Memory Features

page 2‑6

.

on

Second Row Seats

The rear seat is a 60/40 split bench seat that can be
folded to give you more cargo space and access to the
folding midgate.

For detailed instructions see Rear Seat Operation

page 2‑9

.

on

Heated Seats

On vehicles with heated
and cooled front seats,
the controls are located
on the climate control
panel.

{ (Cooled Seat): Press to cool the entire seat.
+ (Heated Seatback): Press to heat the

seatback only.

z (Heated Seat and Seatback): Press to heat

the seat and seatback.

Continue to press the desired button to cycle through
the temperature settings: high (three indicator lights),
medium (two indicator lights), low (one indicator light),
and off (no lights).

See Heated and Cooled Seats on page 2‑5.

Head Restraint Adjustment

Do not drive until the head restraints for all occupants
are installed and adjusted properly.

For more information see Head Restraints

page 2‑2

.

on

1-9

Safety Belt

Refer to the following sections for important information
on how to use safety belts properly.

.

Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 2‑10.

.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly on page 2‑15.

.

Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 2‑24.

.

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
on page 2‑39

.

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag

The passenger sensing system, if equipped, will turn off
the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain
conditions. The driver airbags, seat‐mounted side
impact airbags and roof‐rail airbags are not affected
by this.

If the vehicle has one of the indicators pictured in the
following illustrations, then the vehicle has a passenger
sensing system for the right front passenger position.

The passenger airbag status indicator, if equipped, will
be visible on the overhead console when the vehicle is
started.

United States Canada

See Passenger Sensing System
important information.

on page 2‑60

for

1-10

Mirror Adjustment

Exterior Mirrors

Vehicles with outside
power mirrors and
foldaway mirrors have
controls located on the
driver door.

1. Press (A) or (B) to select the driver or passenger
side mirror.

2. Press one of the four arrows located on the control
pad to adjust the mirror.

3. Press the opposite side to get the control pad to a
neutral position.

Power Foldaway Mirrors

To fold the mirrors:

1. Press (C) to fold the mirrors out to the driving
position.

2. Press (D) to fold the mirrors in to the folded
position.

The dimming feature automatically adjusts the driver
outside mirror for the glare of the headlamps behind
your vehicle. See Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror

on page 3‑45

for more information.

1-11

Interior Mirror

Vehicles with a manual rearview mirror can be adjusted
to see clearly behind the vehicle. Hold the mirror
in the center to move it up or down and side to side.
To reduce headlamp glare during nighttime use, move
the lever at the bottom of the mirror to the right. Move it
to the left for daytime use.

Vehicles with an automatic dimming rearview mirror.
The dimming feature reduces the glare of lights from
behind the vehicle. The dimming feature comes on and
the indicator light illuminates each time the vehicle is
started.

See Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
for more information.

on page 3‑45

Steering Wheel Adjustment

The power tilt wheel control is located on the left side
of the steering column.

To adjust the steering wheel:

Push the control up or down.

See Tilt Wheel on page 4‑3.

1-12

Interior Lighting

Dome Lamps

The dome lamps come on when any door is opened.
They turn off after all the doors are closed.

The dome lamps can also be turned on by turning the
instrument panel brightness knob, located on the
instrument panel to the left of the steering column,
clockwise to the farthest position. In this position, the
dome lamps remain on whether a door is opened or
closed.

k : The dome lamp override button is located next to

the exterior lamps control.

Press the button in and the dome lamps remain off
when a door is opened. Press the button again to return
it to the extended position so that the dome lamps come
on when a door is opened.

Reading Lamps

For vehicles with reading lamps in the overhead
console, press the button located next to the lamp to
turn it on or off.

The vehicle may also have reading lamps in other
locations. The lamps cannot be adjusted.

For more information about interior lamps, see:

.

Dome Lamps on page 4‑17.

.

Reading Lamps on page 4‑17.

.

Instrument Panel Brightness on page 4‑16.

1-13

Exterior Lighting

The exterior lamps
control is located on the
instrument panel to the
left of the steering wheel.

9 : Turns off the automatic headlamps and daytime

running lamps (DRL). Turning the headlamp control to
the off position again will turn the automatic headlamps
or DRL back on.

For vehicles first sold in Canada, the off position only
works when the vehicle is shifted into the P (Park)
position.

AUTO : Automatically turns on the headlamps at normal
brightness, along with the parking lamps and taillamps.

; : Turns on the parking lamps and taillamps.
2 : Turns on the headlamps, parking lamps, and

taillamps.

For more information, see:

.

Exterior Lamps on page 4‑10.

.

Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) on page 4‑14.

.

Fog Lamps on page 4‑16.

1-14

Windshield Wiper/Washer

This lever is located on the left side of the steering
column.

8 : For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to mist.

Hold it there until the wipers start, then release.
For more wipes, hold the band on mist longer.

6 : The wiper speed can be set for a long or short delay

between wipes. Turn the band up or down for a shorter
or longer delay time.

6 : Slow wipes.
1 : Fast wipes.
9 : Turns the wipers off.
L : Push the paddle at the top of the lever, to spray

washer fluid on the windshield.

See Windshield Wipers

Washer on page 4‑6

on page 4‑6

and Windshield

1-15

Climate Controls

The heating, cooling, and ventilation in the vehicle can
be controlled with this system.

Climate Control with Heated and

Cooled Seats shown

Transmission

Driver Shift Control (DSC)

A. Driver and Passenger

Temperature Controls

B. AUTO

C. Air Recirculation

D. Air Conditioning

E. Heated and Cooled Seats

See Dual Automatic Climate Control System

page 4‑20

1-16

.

F. Fan Control

G. Defrost

H. Rear Window

Defogger

I. Air Delivery Mode

Control

on

The DSC switch is located on the shift lever. To enable
the DSC feature, move the column shift lever to the
M (Manual) position. The Driver Information Center
(DIC) display will show the message MANUAL SHIFT
on the first line and the current gear will be displayed
on the second line. See Driver Information Center (DIC)

on page 4‑39
page 4‑40

and DIC Operation and Displays

for more information. This is the highest

on

attainable range with all lower gears accessible.
As an example, when 4 (Fourth) gear is selected,
1 (First) through 4 (Fourth) gears are available.

Press the plus/minus buttons, located on the steering
column shift lever, to select the desired range of gears
for current driving conditions. See Automatic

Transmission Operation

While using DSC, cruise control and the tow/haul mode
can be used.

Grade Braking is not available when DSC is active.
See Tow/Haul Mode on page 3‑39.

on page 3‑35

.

Vehicle Features

Satellite Radio

XM is a satellite radio service that is based in the
48 contiguous United States and 10 Canadian
provinces. XM satellite radio has a wide variety of
programming and commercial-free music,
coast-to-coast, and in digital-quality sound.

A fee is required to receive the XM service.

For more information, refer to:

.

www.xmradio.com or call 1-800-929-2100 (U.S.)

.

www.xmradio.ca or call 1-877-438-9677 (Canada)

Portable Audio Devices

This vehicle may have an auxilliary input, located on the
audio faceplate and a USB port located in the center
console. External devices such as iPod
computers, MP3 players, CD changers, USB storage
device, etc. can be connected to the auxiliary port using
a 3.5 mm (1/8 in.) input jack or the USB port depending
on the audio system.

See “Using the Auxiliary Input Jack” and “Using the
USB Port” under Auxiliary Devices on page 5‑86.

®

, laptop

1-17

Steering Wheel Controls

Audio steering wheel
control functions could
differ depending on the
vehicle's options. Some
audio controls can be
adjusted at the steering
wheel.

w / x : Press to change favorite radio stations, select

tracks on a CD/DVD, or to navigate tracks or folders on
an iPod

®

or USB device.

b g : Press to silence the vehicle speakers only. Press

again to turn the sound on. Press and hold longer than
two seconds to interact with OnStar
systems.

+

e − e : Increases or decreases volume.

®

or Bluetooth

c : Press to reject an incoming call, or to end a call.

SRCE : Press to switch between the radio, CD, and for
vehicles with, DVD, front auxiliary, and rear auxiliary.

¨ : Press to seek the next radio station, the next track

or chapter while sourced to the CD or DVD slot, or to
select tracks and folders on an iPod

For more information, see Audio Steering Wheel
Controls on page 4‑88.

®

or USB device.

1-18

Bluetooth

For vehicles with an in-vehicle Bluetooth system, it
allows users with a Bluetooth enabled cell phone to
make and receive hands-free calls using the vehicle’s
audio system and controls.

The Bluetooth enabled cell phone must be paired with
the in-vehicle Bluetooth system before it can be used in
the vehicle. Not all phones will support all functions.
For more information visit www.gm.com/bluetooth.

For more information, see Bluetooth

®

®

on page 4‑66.

Navigation System

The vehicle's navigation system provides detailed maps
of most major freeways and roads throughout the
United States and Canada. After a destination has been
set, the system provides turn-by-turn instructions for
reaching the destination. In addition, the system can
help locate a variety of points of interest (POI), such as
banks, airports, restaurants, and more.

See Navigation System in the owner's manual for more
information.

Driver Information Center (DIC)

The DIC display is located at the bottom of the
instrument panel cluster. It shows the status of
many vehicle systems and enables access to the
personalization menu.

The DIC buttons are
located on the instrument
panel, next to the steering
wheel.

3 (Trip/Fuel): Press this button to display the

odometer, trip odometer, fuel range, average economy,
fuel used, timer, and transmission temperature.
The compass and outside air temperature will also be
shown in the display. The temperature will be shown
in °F or °C depending on the units selected.

1-19

T (Vehicle Information): Press this button to display

the oil life, units, tire pressure readings for vehicles with
the Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter programming, compass
zone setting, and compass recalibration.

U (Customization): Press this button to customize the

feature settings on your vehicle. See DIC Vehicle

Customization

on page 4‑56

for more information.

V (Set/Reset) : Press this button to set or reset certain

functions and to turn off or acknowledge messages on
the DIC.

For more information, see Driver Information Center
(DIC) on page 4‑39.

Vehicle Customization

Some vehicle features can be programmed by using the
DIC buttons next to the steering wheel. These features
include:

.

Language

.

Door Lock and Unlock Settings

.

RKE Lock and Unlock Feedback

.

Lighting

.

Chime Volume

.

Memory Features

.

Remote Start

.

Digital Speedometer Display

See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4‑56.

1-20

Cruise Control

Cruise Control shown with

Heated Steering Wheel

Button (If Equipped)

The cruise control buttons are located on left side of the
steering wheel.

T : Turns the system on or off. The indicator light is

on when cruise control is on and turns off when cruise
control is off.

+ RES : Press to make the vehicle accelerate or
resume a previously set speed.

SET − : Press to set the speed or make the vehicle
decelerate.

[ : Press to cancel cruise control without erasing the

set speed from memory.

See Cruise Control on page 4‑7.

Rear Vision Camera (RVC)

The rear vision camera displays a view of the area
behind the vehicle on the navigation screen when the
vehicle is shifted into R (Reverse). Once shifted out of
R (Reverse), the navigation screen will go back to the
last screen that had been displayed, after a delay.

To clean the camera lense, located below the tailgate
handle, rinse it with water and wipe it with a soft cloth.

1-21

Ultrasonic Parking Assist

This feature uses sensors on the rear bumper to detect
objects while parking the vehicle. It operates at speeds
less than 8 km/h (5 mph). URPA uses audio beeps to
provide distance and system information.

Keep the sensors on the vehicle's rear bumper clean to
ensure proper operation.

The system can be disabled by pressing the rear park
aid disable button located next to the radio.

See Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist (URPA)

page 3‑48

for more information.

on

Power Outlets

Accessory power outlets can be used to connect
auxiliary electrical equipment, such as a cellular
telephone.

One accessory power outlet is located inside the center
floor console. Lift up on the lower latch located at the
front of the console lid to access the accessory power
outlet.

There may also be an accessory power outlet located
on the rear of the center floor console above the
cupholder.

The accessory power outlets are powered, even when
the ignition is in LOCK/OFF. Continuing to use power
outlets while the ignition is in LOCK/OFF may cause the
vehicle's battery to run down.

See Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 4‑18.

Universal Remote System

The Universal Home Remote System allows for garage
door openers, security systems, and home automation
devices to be programmed to work with these buttons in
the vehicle.

See Universal Home Remote System

on page 3‑54

.

1-22

Performance and Maintenance

StabiliTrak

The vehicle may have a traction control system that
limits wheel spin and the StabiliTrak system that assists
with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving
conditions. Both systems turn on automatically every
time the vehicle is started.

.

To turn off traction control, press and release 5 on
the instrument panel.

appropriate DIC message displays. See DIC
Warnings and Messages on page 4‑48.

.

To turn off both traction control and Electronic
Stability Control, press and hold

illuminates and the appropriate DIC message
displays. See DIC Warnings and Messages

page 4‑48

.

Press and release the button again to turn on both
systems.

For more information, see StabiliTrak

page 6‑6

®

F illuminates and the

5 until F

.

®

.

System

on

on

Tire Pressure Monitor

This vehicle may have a Tire Pressure Monitor
System (TPMS).

The Tire Pressure Monitor
alerts you when a
significant reduction in
pressure occurs in one or
more of the vehicle’s tires
by illuminating the low tire
pressure warning light on
the instrument cluster.

The warning light will remain on until the tire pressure is
corrected. The proper tire pressures for your vehicle are
listed on the Tire and Loading Information label located
on the driver side center pillar (B pillar). See Loading

the Vehicle

on page 6‑32

.

1-23

You may notice during cooler conditions that the low tire
pressure warning light will appear when the vehicle is
first started and then turn off as you drive. This may be
an early indicator that your tire pressures are getting
low and the tires need to be inflated to the proper
pressure.

Note: The Tire Pressure Monitor can alert you about
low tire pressure, but it does not replace normal monthly
tire maintenance. It is the driver’s responsibility to
maintain correct tire pressures.

See Tire Pressure Monitor System

on page 7‑66

and

Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 7‑67.

Engine Oil Life System

The engine oil life system calculates engine oil life
based on vehicle use and displays a DIC message
when it is necessary to change the engine oil and filter.
The oil life system should be reset to 100% only
following an oil change.

Resetting the Oil Life System

1. Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC.

2. Press and hold the SET/RESET button on the DIC
for more than five seconds. The oil life will change
to 100%.

See Engine Oil Life System on page 7‑18.

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)

This vehicle has a yellow fuel cap and can use either
unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85%
ethanol (E85). See Gasoline Octane

on page 7‑7

and

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on page 7‑8.

Driving for Better Fuel Economy

Driving habits can affect fuel mileage. Here are some
driving tips to get the best fuel economy possible.

.

Avoid fast starts and accelerate smoothly.

.

Brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops.

.

Avoid idling the engine for long periods of time.

.

When road and weather conditions are
appropriate, use cruise control, if equipped.

.

Always follow posted speed limits or drive more
slowly when conditions require.

.

Keep vehicle tires properly inflated.

.

Combine several trips into a single trip.

.

Replace the vehicle's tires with the same TPC
Spec number molded into the tire's sidewall near
the size.

.

Follow recommended scheduled maintenance.

1-24

Roadside Service

U.S. or Canada: 1-800-882-1112

TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438

As the owner of a new Cadillac, you are automatically
enrolled in the Roadside Service program which is
available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Roadside Service and OnStar

If you have a current OnStar subscription, press the
OnStar button and the current GPS location will be sent
to an OnStar Advisor who will assess your problem,
contact Roadside Service, and relay exact location to
get you the help you need.

Online Owner Center

The Online Owner Center is a complimentary service
that includes online service reminders, vehicle
maintenance tips, online owner manual, special
privileges and more.

Sign up today at: www.gmownercenter.com/cadillac
(U.S.) or www.gm.ca (Canada).

OnStar

OnStar®uses several innovative technologies and live
advisors to provide a wide range of safety, security,
navigation, diagnostics, and calling services.

®

Automatic Crash Response

In a crash, built in sensors can automatically alert an
OnStar advisor who is immediately connected to the
vehicle to see if you need help.

1-25

How OnStar Service Works

: This blue button connects you to a specially

Q

trained OnStar advisor to verify your account
information and to answer questions.

] : Push this red emergency button to get priority help

from specially trained OnStar emergency advisors.

X : Push this button for hands‐free, voice‐activated

calling and to give voice commands for turn‐by‐turn
navigation.

Crisis Assist, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle
Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock, Roadside
Assistance, Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation and Hands‐Free
Calling are available on most vehicles. Not all OnStar
services are available on all vehicles. For more
information see the OnStar Owner's Guide or visit
www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada),
contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1‐888‐466‐7827)

or TTY 1‐877‐248‐2080, or press
OnStar advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For a full description of OnStar services and system
limitations, see the OnStar Owner's Guide in the
glove box.

OnStar service is subject to the OnStar terms and
conditions included in the OnStar Subscriber
Information.

Q to speak with an

OnStar service cannot work unless the vehicle is in a
place where OnStar has an agreement with a wireless
service provider for service in that area. OnStar service
also cannot work unless the vehicle is in a place where
the wireless service provider OnStar has hired for that
area has coverage, network capacity and reception
when the service is needed, and technology that is
compatible with the OnStar service. Not all services are
available everywhere, particularly in remote or enclosed
areas, or at all times.

The OnStar system can record and transmit vehicle
information. This information is automatically sent to an

OnStar call center when
or if the airbags or ACR system deploy. This information
usually includes the vehicle's GPS location and, in the
event of a crash, additional information regarding the
crash that the vehicle was involved in (e.g. the direction
from which the vehicle was hit). When the virtual
advisor feature of OnStar hands-free calling is used, the
vehicle also sends OnStar the vehicle's GPS location
so they can provide services where it is located.

Location information about the vehicle is only available
if the GPS satellite signals are unobstructed and
available.

Q is pressed, ] is pressed,

1-26

The vehicle must have a working electrical system,
including adequate battery power, for the OnStar
equipment to operate. There are other problems OnStar
cannot control that may prevent OnStar from providing
OnStar service at any particular time or place. Some
examples are damage to important parts of the vehicle
in a crash, hills, tall buildings, tunnels, weather or
wireless phone network congestion.

OnStar Steering Wheel Controls

This vehicle may have a Talk/Mute button that can be
used to interact with OnStar hands-free calling. See

Audio Steering Wheel Controls

information.

On some vehicles, the mute button can be used to dial
numbers into voice mail systems, or to dial phone
extensions. See the OnStar Owner's Guide for more
information.

on page 4‑88

for more

Your Responsibility

Increase the volume of the radio if the OnStar advisor
cannot be heard.

If the light next to the OnStar buttons is red, the system
may not be functioning properly. Press

vehicle diagnostic. If the light appears clear (no light is
appearing), your OnStar subscription has expired and

all services have been deactivated. Press
that the OnStar equipment is active.

Q and request a

Q to confirm

1-27

2 NOTES

1-28

Section 2 Seats and Restraint System

Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......... . . . . . . . . . 2-3

Power Seats . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . 2-3

Power Lumbar . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 2-4

Heated and Cooled Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... 2-5

Memory Features . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . 2-6

Power Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . .. . 2-7

Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 2-9

Rear Seat Operation . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . 2-9

Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ...... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone . ... . . . . . . . 2-10

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-15

Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . .. . . . . 2-24

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-29

Safety Belt Extender . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . 2-29

Child Restraints . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . ... . . 2-30

Older Children . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . 2-30

Infants and Young Children . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . 2-32

Child Restraint Systems . .... . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . 2-36

Where to Put the Restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 2-37

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children

(LATCH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 2-39

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat

Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... 2-45

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front

Seat Position . . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . 2-47

Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-51

Where Are the Airbags? . . ... . . . . . . .. . . . . . .. . . . 2-53

When Should an Airbag Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-56

What Makes an Airbag Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57

How Does an Airbag Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57

What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? . . . 2-58

Passenger Sensing System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-60

Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle . . . . . . . 2-64

Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped

Vehicle . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . 2-65

Restraint System Check . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . 2-66

Checking the Restraint Systems . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . 2-66

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a

Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ......... . . . . . 2-67

2-1

Head Restraints

The front seats have adjustable head restraints in the
outboard seating positions.

WARNING:

{

With head restraints that are not installed and
adjusted properly, there is a greater chance that
occupants will suffer a neck/spinal injury in a
crash. Do not drive until the head restraints for all
occupants are installed and adjusted properly.

Adjust the head restraint so that the top of the restraint
is at the same height as the top of the occupant's head.
This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in
a crash.

2-2

Pull the head restraint up to raise it. To lower the head
restraint, press the button, located on the top of the
seatback, and push the restraint down.

Push down on the head restraint after the button is
released to make sure that it is locked in place.

The head restraints are not designed to be removed.

The rear seat has head rests that can be adjusted up
and down.

Front Seats

Power Seats

Driver Seat with Power Seat Control, Power Recline,

The power seat controls are located on the outboard
side of the front seats.

.

Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding the
control forward or rearward.

.

Raise or lower the front part of the seat cushion by
moving the front of the control up or down.

and Power Lumbar shown

2-3

.

Raise or lower the rear part of the seat cushion by
moving the rear of the control up or down.

.

Raise or lower the entire seat by moving the entire
control up or down.

The power reclining seatback control is located behind
the power seat control on the outboard side of the
seats. See Power Reclining Seatbacks on page 2‑7.

Your vehicle has a memory function which allows seat
settings to be saved and recalled. See Memory
Features on page 2‑6.

2-4

Power Lumbar

If the seats have power lumbar, the controls used to
operate this feature are located on the outboard side
of the seats.

.

To increase lumbar support, press and hold the
front of the control.

.

To decrease lumbar support, press and hold the
rear of the control.

.

To raise the height of the lumbar support, press
and hold the top of the control.

.

To lower the height of the lumbar support, press
and hold the bottom of the control.

Release the control when the lower seatback reaches
the desired level of lumbar support.

Your vehicle may have a memory function which allows
seat settings to be saved and recalled. See Memory

Features

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.

on page 2‑6

for more information.

Heated and Cooled Seats

If the front seats have the
heated and cooled seat
feature, the buttons used
to control this feature are
located on the climate
control panel.

{ (Cooled Seat): To cool the entire seat, press the

button with the cooled seat symbol.

This symbol will appear on the climate control display to
indicate that the feature is on. Press the button to cycle
through the temperature settings of high, medium, and
low and to turn the cooled seat off. Indicator bars next
to the symbol designate the level of cooling selected:
three for high, two for medium, and one for low.

+ (Heated Seatback): To heat only the seatback,

press the button with the heated seatback symbol.

This symbol will appear on the climate control display to
indicate that the feature is on. Press the button to cycle
through the temperature settings of high, medium, and
low and to turn the heated seatback off. Indicator bars
next to the symbol designate the level of heat selected:
three for high, two for medium, and one for low.

z (Heated Seat and Seatback): To heat the entire

seat, press the button with the heated seat and
seatback symbol.

This symbol will appear on the climate control display to
indicate that the feature is on. Press the button to cycle
through the temperature settings of high, medium, and
low and to turn the heated seat off. Indicator bars next
to the symbol designate the level of heat selected:
three for high, two for medium, and one for low.

The heated and cooled seats will be canceled after the
ignition is turned off. If you want to use the heated and
cooled seat feature after you restart your vehicle, you
will need to press the appropriate seat button again.

2-5

Memory Features

Your vehicle has the memory package.

The controls for this
feature are located on
the driver's door, and
are used to program and
recall memory settings
for the driver's seat,
outside mirrors, steering
wheel position, and the
adjustable throttle and
brake pedal feature,
if your vehicle has it.

To save your positions in memory, do the following:

1. Adjust the driver's seat, including the seatback
recliner and lumbar, both outside mirrors, steering
wheel, and the throttle and brake pedals to a
comfortable position.

See Outside Power Foldaway Mirrors

page 3‑46
Pedal

Not all mirrors will have the ability to save and
recall the mirror positions.

and Adjustable Throttle and Brake

on page 3‑34

for more information.

on

2. Press and hold button 1 until two beeps
let you know that the position has been
stored.

A second seating, mirror, steering wheel position, and
throttle and brake pedal position can be programmed by
repeating the above steps and pressing button 2.

To recall the memory positions, the vehicle must be in
P (Park). Press and release either button 1 or button 2
corresponding to the desired driving position. The seat,
outside mirrors, steering wheel position, and adjustable
throttle and brake pedals will move to the position
previously stored. You will hear a single beep.

If you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to enter
your vehicle and the remote recall memory feature is
on, automatic seat, mirror, steering wheel position, and
adjustable pedal movement will occur. See “MEMORY
SEAT RECALL” under DIC Vehicle Customization

page 4‑56

To stop recall movement of the memory feature at any
time, press one of the power seat controls, memory
buttons, power mirror buttons, power tilt wheel control,
or adjustable pedal switch.

If something has blocked the driver’s seat and/or the
adjustable pedals while recalling a memory position,
the driver’s seat and/or the adjustable pedals recall may
stop working. If this happens, remove the obstruction

for more information.

on

2-6

and press the appropriate function control for
two seconds. Then try recalling the memory position
again by pressing the appropriate memory button.
If the memory position is still not recalling, see your
dealer/retailer for service.

Easy Exit Seat

The control for this feature is located on the driver’s
door between buttons 1 and 2.

With the vehicle in P (Park), the exit position can be
recalled by pressing the exit button. You will hear a
single beep. The driver’s seat will move back.

If the easy exit seat feature is on in the Driver
Information Center (DIC), automatic seat movement will
occur when the key is removed from the ignition. See

“EASY EXIT SEAT” under DIC Vehicle Customization
on page 4‑56

Further programming for the memory seat feature can
be done using the DIC. You can select the automatic
easy exit seat feature or the remote memory seat recall
feature.

For programming information, see DIC Vehicle
Customization on page 4‑56.

for more information.

Power Reclining Seatbacks

Driver's Seat with Power Seat Control, Power

Recline, and Power Lumbar shown

The controls for the power reclining seatback are
located on the outboard side of the front seats behind
the power seat control.

.

To recline the seatback, tilt the top of the control
rearward.

.

To bring the seatback forward, tilt the top of the
control forward.

2-7

WARNING:

{

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is
in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle
up, your safety belts cannot do their job when you
are reclined like this.

(Continued)

WARNING: (Continued)

The shoulder belt cannot do its job. In a crash,
you could go into it, receiving neck or other
injuries.

The lap belt cannot 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.

Do not have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is
moving.

Your vehicle has a memory function which allows seat
settings to be saved and recalled. See Memory
Features on page 2‑6.

2-8

Rear Seats

Rear Seat Operation

The rear seat is a 60/40 split bench seat that can be
folded to give you more cargo space and access to the
folding midgate. See Midgate
information on operation of the folding midgate.

To fold either side of the seat do the following:

1. Push the rear seat head restraints all the
way down.

®

on page 3‑12

2. Pull the seat loop
located where the
seatback and seat
cushion meet.
The seat cushion will
release and allow
you to tilt it toward the
front of the vehicle.

for more

Notice: Folding a rear seat with the safety belts
still fastened may cause damage to the seat or the
safety belts. Always unbuckle the safety belts and
return them to their normal stowed position before
folding a rear seat.

3. Fold the seatback forward until it is flat. You may
have to move the front seats forward slightly to
do this.

4. Repeat the procedure for the other side.

2-9

To return the seats to the normal position, push the
seatback up and fold the seat cushion down.

WARNING:

{

A safety belt that is improperly routed, not
properly attached, or twisted will not provide the
protection needed in a crash. The person wearing
the belt could be seriously injured. After raising
the rear seatback, always check to be sure that
the safety belts are properly routed and attached,
and are not twisted.

WARNING:

{

If the seatback is not locked, it could move
forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always be
sure to press the rear of the seat cushion down.
This action locks the seatback in place.

Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
Raise the head restraint.

Safety Belts

Safety Belts: They Are 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.

WARNING:

{

Do not let anyone ride where a safety belt cannot
be worn properly. In a crash, if you or your
passenger(s) are not wearing safety belts, the
injuries can be much worse. You can hit things
inside the vehicle harder or be ejected from the
vehicle. You and your passenger(s) 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 passenger(s)
are restrained properly too.

2-10

WARNING:

{

People riding on the tailgate (if equipped) can
easily lose their balance and fall even when the
vehicle is operated at low speeds. Falling from a
moving vehicle may result in serious injuries or
death.

WARNING:

{

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 indicators as a reminder to buckle your
safety belts. See Safety Belt Reminders on page 4‑27.

In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law
requires wearing safety belts. Here is why:

You never know if you will be in a crash. If you do have
a crash, you do not know if it will be a serious one.

A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so
serious that even buckled up, a person would not
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 40 years of safety belts in vehicles,
the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does
matter ... a lot!

2-11

Why Safety Belts Work

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

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a seat on
wheels.

Put someone on it.

2-12

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider
does not stop.

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

2-13

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 is why
safety belts make such good sense.

2-14

Questions and Answers About
Safety Belts

Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after a crash if I

am wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be — whether you are wearing a safety

belt or not. But your chance of being conscious
during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle
and get out, is much greater if you are belted. And
you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you are
upside down.

Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why should I have to

wear safety belts?

A: Airbags are supplemental systems only; so they

work with safety belts — not instead of them.
Whether or not an airbag is provided, all occupants
still have to buckle up to get the most protection.
That is true not only in frontal collisions, but
especially in side and other collisions.

Q: If I am 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 are in a

crash — even one that is not your fault — you and
your passenger(s) can be hurt. Being a good driver
does not 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.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

This section 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 infants. If a child will be riding in
the vehicle, see Older Children

and Young Children

for everyone's protection.

It is very important for all occupants to buckle up.
Statistics show that unbelted people are hurt more often
in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts.

on page 2‑32

on page 2‑30

. Follow those rules

or Infants

2-15

Occupants who are not buckled up can be thrown out of
the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the
vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

First, before you or your passenger(s) wear a safety
belt, there is important information you should know.

Sit up straight and always keep your feet on the floor
in front of you. 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 would be less likely to slide under the lap belt.
If you slid under it, the belt would apply force on 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 shoulder belt locks if there is a sudden stop or
crash.

2-16

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It will not give as

much protection this way.

WARNING:

{

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 snugly against your body.

2-17

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The lap belt is too loose. It will not give nearly as

much protection this way.

WARNING:

{

You can be seriously hurt if your lap belt is too
loose. In a crash, you could slide under the lap
belt and apply force on your abdomen. This could
cause serious or even fatal injuries. The lap belt
should be worn low and snug on the hips, just
touching the thighs.

2-18

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong buckle.

WARNING:

{

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 on the pelvic bones. This
could cause serious internal injuries. Always
buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

2-19

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is over an armrest.

WARNING:

{

You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over
an armrest like this. The belt would be much too
high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The
belt force would then be applied on the abdomen,
not on the pelvic bones, and that could cause
serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes
under the armrests.

2-20

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

WARNING:

{

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 are not as strong as shoulder bones.
You could also severely injure internal organs like
your liver or spleen. The shoulder belt should go
over the shoulder and across the chest.

2-21

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is behind the body.

WARNING:

{

You can be seriously injured by not wearing the
lap-shoulder belt properly. In a crash, you would
not be restrained by the shoulder belt. Your body
could move too far forward increasing the chance
of head and neck injury. You might also slide
under the lap belt. The belt force would then be
applied right on the abdomen. That could cause
serious or fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should
go over the shoulder and across the chest.

2-22

Q: What is wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

WARNING:

{

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a
crash, you would not 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/retailer to fix it.

2-23

Lap-Shoulder Belt

All seating positions in the vehicle have a
lap-shoulder belt.

The following instructions explain how to wear a
lap-shoulder belt properly.

1. Adjust the seat, if the seat is adjustable, so you
can sit up straight. To see how, see “Seats” in the
Index.

2. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Do not let it get twisted.

The lap-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.

If the shoulder portion of a passenger belt is pulled
out all the way, the child restraint locking feature
may be engaged. If this happens, let the belt go
back all the way and start again.

Engaging the child restraint locking feature may
affect the passenger sensing system, if equipped.
See Passenger Sensing System
more information.

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle tilt the
latch plate and keep pulling the safety belt until it
can be buckled.

on page 2‑60

for

3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
If you find that the latch plate will not go fully into
the buckle, see if you are using the correct buckle.

Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt

Extender

Position the release button on the buckle so that
the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.

on page 2‑29

.

2-24

4. If equipped with a shoulder belt height adjuster,
move it to the height that is right for you. See
“Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment” later in this
section for instructions on use and important safety
information.

5. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the
shoulder belt.

It may be necessary to pull stitching on the safety
belt through the latch plate to fully tighten the lap
belt on smaller occupants.

To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle.
The belt should return to its stowed position.

Before a door is closed, be sure the safety belt is out of
the way. If a door is slammed against a safety belt,
damage can occur to both the belt and the vehicle.

2-25

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

The vehicle has a shoulder belt height adjuster for the
driver and right front passenger positions.

Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt
is centered on the shoulder. The belt should be away
from the face and neck, but not falling off the shoulder.
Improper shoulder belt height adjustment could reduce
the effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash.

Squeeze the buttons (A)
on the sides of the height
adjuster and move the
height adjuster to the
desired position.

The adjuster can be moved up just by pushing up on
the shoulder belt guide.

After the adjuster is set to the desired position, try to
move it down without squeezing the buttons to make
sure it has locked into position.

Safety Belt Pretensioners

This vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for front
outboard occupants. Although the safety belt
pretensioners cannot be seen, they are part of the
safety belt assembly. They can help tighten the safety
belts during the early stages of a moderate to severe
frontal, near frontal, or rear crash if the threshold
conditions for pretensioner activation are met. And,
if the vehicle has side impact airbags, safety belt
pretensioners can help tighten the safety belts in a
side crash or a rollover event.

Pretensioners work only once. If the pretensioners
activate in a crash, they will need to be replaced, and
probably other new parts for the vehicle's safety belt
system. See Replacing Restraint System Parts After a
Crash on page 2‑67.

2-26

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides

This vehicle may have rear shoulder belt comfort
guides. If not, they are available through your dealer/
retailer. The guides may provide added safety belt
comfort for older children who have outgrown booster
seats and for some adults. When installed and properly
adjusted, the comfort guide positions the belt away from
the neck and head.

Here is how to install a comfort guide to the safety belt:

1. Remove the guide from its storage pocket on the
side of the seat.

2. Place the guide over the belt, and insert the
two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

2-27

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.

WARNING:

{

A safety belt that is not properly worn may not
provide the protection needed in a crash. The
person wearing the belt could be seriously injured.

(Continued)

WARNING: (Continued)

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.

4. Buckle, position, and release the safety belt as
described previously in this section. Make sure that
the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.

2-28

To remove and store the comfort guide, squeeze the
belt edges together so that the safety belt can be
removed from the guide. Slide the guide into its storage
clip on the interior body or storage pocket on the side of
the seat.

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the
mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it is
more likely that the fetus will not be hurt in a crash.
For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making
safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

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 do not 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.

Safety Belt Extender

If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten around you, you
should use it.

But if a safety belt is not long enough, your dealer/
retailer will order you an extender. When you go in to
order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the
extender will be long enough for you. To help avoid
personal injury, do not let someone else use it, and use
it only for the seat it is made to fit. The extender has
been designed for adults. Never use it for securing
child seats. To wear it, attach it to the regular safety
belt. For more information, see the instruction sheet that
comes with the extender.

2-29

Child Restraints

Older Children

Older children who have outgrown booster seats should
wear the vehicle's safety belts.

The manufacturer's instructions that come with the
booster seat state the weight and height limitations for
that booster. Use a booster seat with a lap-shoulder belt
until the child passes the below fit test:

.

Sit all the way back on the seat. Do the knees
bend at the seat edge? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

.

Buckle the lap-shoulder belt. Does the shoulder
belt rest on the shoulder? If yes, continue. If no, try
using the rear safety belt comfort guide. See “Rear
Safety Belt Comfort Guides” under Lap-Shoulder

Belt

on page 2‑24

for more information. If the
shoulder belt still does not rest on the shoulder,
then return to the booster seat.

.

Does the lap belt fit low and snug on the hips,
touching the thighs? If yes, continue. If no, return
to the booster seat.

.

Can proper safety belt fit be maintained for the
length of the trip? If yes, continue. If no, return to
the booster seat.

.

If you have the choice, a child should sit in a
position with a lap-shoulder belt and get the
additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

2-30

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

A: 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. This applies
belt force to the child's pelvic bones in a crash.
It should never be worn over the abdomen, which
could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in
a crash.

Also see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” under
Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 2‑24.

According to accident statistics, children and infants are
safer when properly restrained in a child restraint
system or infant restraint system secured in a rear
seating position.

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.

WARNING:

{

Never do this.

Never allow two children to wear the same safety
belt. The safety belt can not properly spread the
impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be
crushed together and seriously injured. A safety
belt must be used by only one person at a time.

2-31

WARNING:

{

Never do this.

Never allow a child to wear the safety belt with the
shoulder belt behind their back. A child can be
seriously injured by not wearing the lap-shoulder
belt properly. In a crash, the child would not be
restrained by the shoulder belt. The child could
move too far forward increasing the chance of
head and neck injury. The child might also slide
under the lap belt. The belt force would then be
applied right on the abdomen. That could cause
serious or fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should
go over the shoulder and across the chest.

Infants and Young 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.

2-32

WARNING:

{

WARNING: (Continued)

Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a
shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and
the safety belt continues to tighten. Never leave
children unattended in a vehicle and never allow
children to play with the safety belts.

Airbags plus lap‐shoulder belts offer protection for
adults and older children, but not for young children and
infants. Neither the vehicle's safety belt system nor its
airbag system is designed for them. Every time infants
and young children ride in vehicles, they should have
the protection provided by appropriate child restraints.

Children who are not restrained properly can strike
other people, or can be thrown out of the vehicle.

WARNING:

{

Never do this.

Never hold an infant or a child while riding in a
vehicle. Due to crash forces, an infant or a child
will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it

(Continued)

during a crash. For example, in a crash at only
40 km/h (25 mph), a 5.5 kg (12 lb) infant will
suddenly become a 110 kg (240 lb) force on a
person's arms. An infant should be secured in an
appropriate restraint.

2-33

WARNING:

{

Never do this.

Children who are up against, or very close to, any
airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or
killed. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the
right front seat. Secure a rear-facing child restraint
in a rear seat. It is also better to secure a
forward-facing child restraint in a rear seat. If you
must secure a forward-facing child restraint in the
right front seat, always move the front passenger
seat as far back as it will go.

2-34

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.

WARNING:

{

To reduce the risk of neck and head injury during
a crash, infants need complete support. This is
because an infant's neck is not fully developed

(Continued)

WARNING: (Continued)

and its head weighs so much compared with
the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a
rear-facing child restraint 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 should always be secured in
rear-facing child restraints.

WARNING:

{

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 is
unprotected by any bony structure. This alone
could cause serious or fatal injuries. To reduce the
risk of serious or fatal injuries during a crash,
young children should always be secured in
appropriate child restraints.

2-35

Child Restraint Systems

A rear-facing infant
seat (A) 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.

A forward-facing child
seat (B) provides restraint
for the child's body with
the harness.

A booster seat (C-D) is a child restraint designed to
improve the fit of the vehicle's safety belt system.
A booster seat can also help a child to see out the
window.

2-36

Securing an Add-On Child Restraint in
the Vehicle

WARNING:

{

A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash
if the child restraint is not properly secured in the
vehicle. Secure the child restraint properly in the
vehicle using the vehicle's safety belt or LATCH
system, following the instructions that came with
that child restraint and the instructions in this
manual.

To help reduce the chance of injury, the child restraint
must be secured in the vehicle. Child restraint systems
must be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap
belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt, or by the LATCH
system. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children

(LATCH)

can be endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not
properly secured in the vehicle.

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.

on page 2‑39

for more information. A child

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 the vehicle — even when no child is
in it.

Securing the Child Within the Child
Restraint

WARNING:

{

A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash
if the child is not properly secured in the child
restraint. Secure the child properly following the
instructions that came with that child restraint.

Where to Put the Restraint

According to accident statistics, children and infants are
safer when properly restrained in a child restraint
system or infant restraint system secured in a rear
seating position.

We recommend that children and child restraints be
secured in a rear seat, including: an infant or a child
riding in a rear-facing child restraint; a child riding in a

2-37

forward-facing child seat; an older child riding in a
booster seat; and children, who are large enough,
using safety belts.

A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing
child restraint in the front.” This is because the risk to
the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.

WARNING:

{

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger airbag inflates. This is because the
back of the rear-facing child restraint would be
very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a
forward-facing child restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag
inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward
position.

The vehicle may have a passenger sensing
system which is designed to turn off the right front
passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions.

Even if the passenger sensing system,
if equipped, has turned off the right front
passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe.

(Continued)

WARNING: (Continued)

No one can guarantee that an airbag will not
deploy under some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off.

Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear
seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a
forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat,
always move the front passenger seat as far back
as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint
in a rear seat.

See Passenger Sensing System
for additional information.

When securing a child restraint in a rear seating
position, study the instructions that came with the child
restraint to make sure it is compatible with this vehicle.

Wherever a child restraint is installed, 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 the vehicle — even when no child
is in it.

on page 2‑60

2-38

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)

The LATCH system holds a child restraint during
driving or in a crash. This system is designed to make
installation of a child restraint easier. The LATCH
system uses anchors in the vehicle and attachments
on the child restraint that are made for use with the
LATCH system.

Make sure that a LATCH-compatible child restraint is
properly installed using the anchors, or use the vehicle's
safety belts to secure the restraint, following the
instructions that came with that restraint, and also the
instructions in this manual. When installing a child
restraint with a top tether, you must also use either the
lower anchors or the safety belts to properly secure the
child restraint. A child restraint must never be installed
using only the top tether and anchor.

In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you
need a child restraint that has LATCH attachments.
The child restraint manufacturer will provide you with
instructions on how to use the child restraint and its
attachments. The following explains how to attach a
child restraint with these attachments in your vehicle.

Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints have
lower anchors and attachments or top tether anchors
and attachments.

Lower Anchors

Lower anchors (A) are metal bars built into the vehicle.
There are two lower anchors for each LATCH seating
position that will accommodate a child restraint with
lower attachments (B).

2-39

Top Tether Anchor

A top tether (A, C) anchors the top of the child restraint
to the vehicle. A top tether anchor is built into the
vehicle. The top tether attachment (B) on the child
restraint connects to the top tether anchor in the vehicle
in order to reduce the forward movement and rotation of
the child restraint during driving or in a crash.

Your child restraint may have a single tether (A) or a
dual tether (C). Either will have a single attachment (B)
to secure the top tether to the anchor.

Some child restraints that have top tethers are designed
for use with or without the top tether being attached.
Others require the top tether always to be attached.
In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child
restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be
attached. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for
your child restraint.

If the child restraint does not have a top tether, one can
be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask
the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is
available.

Lower Anchor and Top Tether Anchor
Locations

i (Top Tether Anchor):

Seating positions with
top tether anchors.

j (Lower Anchor):

Seating positions with
two lower anchors.

Rear Seat

2-40

The right side rear passenger and center seating
positions have exposed metal anchors located in the
crease between the seatback and the seat cushion.

To assist you in locating
the top tether anchors, the
top tether anchor symbol
is located near the top
tether anchors.

The top tether anchors are located on the back of the
rear seat frame above the floor for each rear seating
position. Fold down the rear seatback(s) to access the
anchors. See Rear Seat Operation

on page 2‑9

.
Be sure to use an anchor located on the same side of
the vehicle as the seating position where the child
restraint will be placed.

Do not secure a child restraint in a position without a
top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that
the top tether be attached, or if the instructions that
come with the child restraint say that the top tether
must be attached.

2-41

According to accident statistics, children and infants
are safer when properly restrained in a child restraint
system or infant restraint system secured in a rear
seating position. See Where to Put the Restraint

page 2‑37

for additional information.

on

Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the
LATCH System

WARNING:

{

If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached to
anchors, the child restraint will not be able to
protect the child correctly. In a crash, the child
could be seriously injured or killed. Install a
LATCH-type child restraint properly using the
anchors, or use the vehicle's safety belts to
secure the restraint, following the instructions that
came with the child restraint and the instructions
in this manual.

WARNING:

{

Do not attach more than one child restraint to a
single anchor. Attaching more than one child
restraint to a single anchor could cause the
anchor or attachment to come loose or even
break during a crash. A child or others could be
injured. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injuries during a crash, attach only one child
restraint per anchor.

WARNING:

{

Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a
shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and
the safety belt continues to tighten. Buckle any
unused safety belts behind the child restraint so
children cannot reach them. Pull the shoulder belt
all the way out of the retractor to set the lock,
if your vehicle has one, after the child restraint
has been installed.

2-42

Notice: Do not let the LATCH attachments rub
against the vehicle’s safety belts. This may damage
these parts. If necessary, move buckled safety belts
to avoid rubbing the LATCH attachments.

Do not fold the empty rear seat with a safety belt
buckled. This could damage the safety belt or the
seat. Unbuckle and return the safety belt to its
stowed position, before folding the seat.

1. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that
the top tether be attached, attach the top tether to
the top tether anchor, if there is one. Refer to the
child restraint instructions and the following steps:

1. 1. To access the top tether anchors, raise the

seat cushion by pulling up on the strap loop
at the rear of the seat cushion and fold the
seat cushion forward. Then fold the seatback
forward until it is flat. See Rear Seat

Operation

on page 2‑9

for additional

information.

1. 2. Place the child restraint in the vehicle, near

the seating position that you are using.

1. 3. Route the top tether according to your child
restraint instructions and the following
instructions:

If the position you are
using does not have a
headrest or head restraint
and you are using a
single tether, route the
tether over the seatback.

If the position you are
using does not have a
headrest or head restraint
and you are using a dual
tether, route the tether
over the seatback.

2-43

If the position you are
using has an adjustable
headrest or head restraint
and you are using a dual
tether, route the tether
around the headrest or
head restraint .

If the position you are
using has an adjustable
headrest or head restraint
and you are using a
single tether, raise the
headrest or head restraint
and route the tether under
the headrest or head
restraint and in between
the headrest or head
restraint posts.

1. 4. Attach the top tether attachment to the top
tether anchor.

WARNING:

{

If either seatback is not locked, it could move
forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always
push and pull on the seatbacks to be sure they
are locked.

1. 5. Lift the seatback up and push it rearward.
Then lower the seat cushion until the
seatback and the seat cushion lock into
position.

2. Attach the lower attachments to the lower anchors.
If the child restraint does not have lower
attachments or the desired seating position does
not have lower anchors, secure the child restraint
with the top tether and the safety belts. Refer to
your child restraint manufacturer instructions and
the instructions in this manual.

2. 1. Find the lower anchors for the desired

seating position.

2. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat.

2. 3. Attach and tighten the lower attachments on

the child restraint to the lower anchors.

2-44

3. Tighten the top tether.

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

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position

When securing a child restraint in a rear seating
position, study the instructions that came with the child
restraint to make sure it is compatible with this vehicle.

If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower

Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
page 2‑39

restraint using LATCH. If you secure a child restraint
using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower

Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
page 2‑39

Do not secure a child restraint in a position without a
top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that
the top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that
come with the child restraint say that the top strap must
be anchored.

for how and where to install the child

for top tether anchor locations.

on

on

In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child
restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be
attached.

If the child restraint does not have the LATCH system,
you will be using the safety belt to secure the child
restraint in this position. 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.

If more than one child restraint needs to be installed
in the rear seat, be sure to read Where to Put the
Restraint on page 2‑37.

If the child restraint manufacturer recommends using a
top tether, attach and tighten the top tether to the top
tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with
the child restraint and see Lower Anchors and Tethers
for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑39.

1. Put the child 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.

2-45

3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

Position the release button on the buckle so that
the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.

2-46

4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of
the retractor to set the lock.

5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child
restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to
tighten the lap portion of the belt, and feed the
shoulder belt back into the retractor. When
installing a forward-facing child restraint, it may be
helpful to use your knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.

If the child restraint has a top tether, follow the
child restraint manufacturer's instructions regarding
the use of the top tether. See Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2‑39.

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

To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle
safety belt and let it return to the stowed position.
If the top tether is attached to a top tether anchor,
disconnect it.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

This vehicle has airbags. A rear seat is a safer place to
secure a forward-facing child restraint. See Where to
Put the Restraint on page 2‑37.

In addition, the vehicle may have a passenger sensing
system which is designed to turn off the right front
passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions.
See Passenger Sensing System

Passenger Airbag Status Indicator

more information, including important safety information.

on page 2‑60

on page 4‑29

and

for

2-47

A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing
child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the
rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.

WARNING: (Continued)

WARNING:

{

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can
be seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger airbag inflates. This is because the
back of the rear-facing child restraint would be
very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a
forward-facing child restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag
inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward
position.

The vehicle may have a passenger sensing
system which is designed to turn off the right front
passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions.

Even if the passenger sensing system,
if equipped, has turned off the right front
passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe.
No one can guarantee that an airbag will not
deploy under some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off.

(Continued)

2-48

Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear
seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a
forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat,
always move the front passenger seat as far back
as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint
in a rear seat.

See Passenger Sensing System
for additional information.

If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
page 2‑39

restraint using LATCH. If a child restraint is secured
using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower

Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
page 2‑39

Do not secure a child seat in a position without a top
tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the
top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that come
with the child restraint say that the top strap must be
anchored.

In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child
restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be
attached.

for how and where to install the child

for top tether anchor locations.

on page 2‑60

on

on

You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the
child restraint in this position. Follow the instructions
that came with the child restraint.

1. Move the seat as far back as it will go before
securing the forward-facing child restraint.

2. Put the child restraint on the seat.

3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and
shoulder portions of the vehicle's safety belt
through or around the restraint. The child restraint
instructions will show you how.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

Position the release button on the buckle so that
the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.

5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of
the retractor to set the lock.

2-49

6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child
restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to
tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the
shoulder belt back into the retractor. When
installing a forward-facing child restraint, it may be
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.

If the vehicle is equipped with the passenger sensing
system, and when the passenger sensing system has
turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off
indicator in the passenger airbag status indicator should
light and stay lit when you start the vehicle. See
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑29.

If a child restraint has been installed and the on
indicator is lit, see “If the On Indicator is Lit for a
Child Restraint” under Passenger Sensing System

page 2‑60

for more information.

on

To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle
safety belt and let it return to the stowed position.

2-50

Airbag System

The vehicle has the following airbags:

.

A frontal airbag for the driver.

.

A frontal airbag for the right front passenger.

.

A seat‐mounted side impact airbag for the driver.

.

A seat‐mounted side impact airbag for the right
front passenger.

.

A roof-rail airbag for the driver and passenger
directly behind the driver.

.

A roof-rail airbag for the right front passenger and
the person seated directly behind that passenger.

All of the airbags in the vehicle will have the word
AIRBAG embossed in the trim or on an attached label
near the deployment opening.

For frontal airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on the
middle part of the steering wheel for the driver and on
the instrument panel for the right front passenger.

With seat‐mounted side impact airbags, the word
AIRBAG will appear on the side of the seatback closest
to the door.

With roof-rail airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear
along the headliner or trim.

Airbags are designed to supplement the protection
provided by safety belts. Even though today's airbags
are also designed to help reduce the risk of injury from
the force of an inflating bag, all airbags must inflate very
quickly to do their job.

2-51

Here are the most important things to know about the
airbag system:

WARNING:

{

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash
if you are not wearing your safety belt — even if
you have airbags. Airbags are designed to work
with safety belts, but do not replace them. Also,
airbags are not designed to deploy in every crash.
In some crashes safety belts are your only
restraint. See When Should an Airbag Inflate?

page 2‑56

Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps
reduce your chance of hitting things inside the
vehicle or being ejected from it. Airbags are
“supplemental restraints” to the safety belts.
Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety
belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag
for that person.

.

on

WARNING:

{

Airbags inflate with great force, faster than the
blink of an eye. Anyone who is up against, or
very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be
seriously injured or killed. Do not sit unnecessarily
close to the airbag, as you would be if you were
sitting on the edge of your seat or leaning forward.
Safety belts help keep you in position before and
during a crash. Always wear your safety belt,
even with airbags. 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 or side windows in seating positions with
seat-mounted side impact airbags and/or roof-rail
airbags.

2-52

WARNING:

{

Children who are up against, or very close to, any
airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or
killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer
protection for adults and older children, but not for
young children and infants. Neither the vehicle's
safety belt system nor its airbag 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 Older Children

page 2‑30
page 2‑32

or Infants and Young Children

.

There is an airbag
readiness light on the
instrument panel cluster,
which shows the airbag
symbol.

on

on

The system checks the airbag electrical system for
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical
problem. See Airbag Readiness Light
more information.

on page 4‑28

Where Are the Airbags?

The driver frontal airbag is in the middle of the steering
wheel.

for

2-53

The right front passenger frontal airbag is in the
instrument panel on the passenger's side.

2-54

Driver Side Shown, Passenger Side Similar

The seat‐mounted side impact airbags for the driver and
right front passenger are in the side of the seatbacks
closest to the door.

Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar

The roof-rail airbags for the driver, right front passenger,
and second row outboard passengers are in the ceiling
above the side windows.

WARNING:

{

If something is between an occupant and an
airbag, the airbag might not inflate properly or it
might force the object into that person causing
severe injury or even death. The path of an
inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put
anything between an occupant and an airbag,
and do not attach or put anything on the
steering wheel hub or on or near any other
airbag covering.

Do not use seat accessories that block the
inflation path of a seat-mounted side impact
airbag.

Never secure anything to the roof of a vehicle
with roof-rail airbags by routing a rope or tie down
through any door or window opening. If you do,
the path of an inflating roof-rail airbag will be
blocked.

2-55

When Should an Airbag Inflate?

Frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to
severe frontal or near-frontal crashes to help reduce
the potential for severe injuries mainly to the driver's or
right front passenger's head and chest. However, they
are only designed to inflate if the impact exceeds a
predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment
thresholds are used to predict how severe a crash is
likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help
restrain the occupants.

Whether the frontal airbags will or should deploy is not
based on how fast your vehicle is traveling. It depends
largely on what you hit, the direction of the impact, and
how quickly your vehicle slows down.

Frontal airbags may inflate at different crash speeds.
For example:

.

If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbags
could inflate at a different crash speed than if the
vehicle hits a moving object.

.

If the vehicle hits an object that deforms, the
airbags could inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle hits an object does not deform.

.

If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole), the
airbags could inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall).

.

If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle, the
airbags could inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle goes straight into the object.

Thresholds can also vary with specific vehicle design.

Frontal airbags are not intended to inflate during vehicle
rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts.

In addition, the vehicle has dual-stage frontal airbags.
Dual-stage airbags adjust the restraint according to
crash severity. The vehicle has electronic frontal
sensors, which help the sensing system distinguish
between a moderate frontal impact and a more severe
frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, dual-stage
airbags inflate at a level less than full deployment. For
more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs.

The vehicle has a seat position sensor. Vehicles with
dual stage airbags also have seat position sensors
which enable the sensing system to monitor the position
of the driver seat.

The seat position sensor provides information that is
used to determine if the airbags should deploy at a
reduced level or at full deployment

2-56

The vehicle has seat‐mounted side impact and
roof-rail airbags. See Airbag System
Seat‐mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags are
intended to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes.
In addition, these roof-rail airbags are intended to
inflate during a rollover or in a severe frontal impact.
Seat‐mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags will
inflate if the crash severity is above the system's
designed threshold level. The threshold level can
vary with specific vehicle design.

Roof-rail airbags are not intended to inflate in rear
impacts. A seat‐mounted side impact airbag is intended
to deploy on the side of the vehicle that is struck.
Both roof-rail airbags will deploy when either side of the
vehicle is struck or if the sensing system predicts that
the vehicle is about to roll over, or in a severe frontal
impact.

In any particular crash, no one can say whether an
airbag should have inflated simply because of the
damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair
costs were. For frontal airbags, inflation is determined
by what the vehicle hits, the angle of the impact, and
how quickly the vehicle slows down. For seat‐mounted
side impact and roof-rail airbags, deployment is
determined by the location and severity of the side
impact. In a rollover event, roof-rail airbag deployment
is determined by the direction of the roll.

on page 2‑51

.

What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

In a deployment event, the sensing system sends an
electrical signal triggering a release of gas from the
inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the airbag causing the
bag to break out of the cover and deploy. The inflator,
the airbag, and related hardware are all part of the
airbag module.

Frontal airbag modules are located inside the
steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with
seat‐mounted side impact airbags, there are airbags
modules in the side of the front seatbacks closest to the
door. For vehicles with roof-rail airbags, there are airbag
modules in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side
windows that have occupant seating positions.

How Does an Airbag 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.

Airbags supplement the protection provided by safety
belts. Frontal airbags distribute the force of the impact
more evenly over the occupant's upper body, stopping
the occupant more gradually. Seat‐mounted side impact
and roof-rail airbags distribute the force of the impact
more evenly over the occupant's upper body.

2-57

Rollover capable roof-rail airbags are designed to
help contain the head and chest of occupants in the
outboard seating positions in the first and second rows.
The rollover capable roof-rail airbags are designed to
help reduce the risk of full or partial ejection in rollover
events, although no system can prevent all such
ejections.

But airbags would not help in many types of collisions,
primarily because the occupant's motion is not toward
those airbags. See When Should an Airbag Inflate?

page 2‑56

Airbags should never be regarded as anything more
than a supplement to safety belts.

for more information.

on

What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates?

After the frontal airbags and seat-mounted side impact
airbags inflate, they quickly deflate, so quickly that
some people may not even realize an airbag inflated.
Roof-rail airbags may still be at least partially inflated
for some time after they deploy. Some components of
the airbag module may be hot for several minutes.
For location of the airbag modules, see What Makes an
Airbag Inflate? on page 2‑57.

The parts of the airbag that come into contact with you
may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There may be
some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the
deflated airbags. Airbag inflation does not prevent the
driver from seeing out of the windshield or being able to
steer the vehicle, nor does it prevent people from
leaving the vehicle.

WARNING:

{

When an airbag inflates, there may be 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 cannot get out
of the vehicle after an airbag inflates, then get
fresh air by opening a window or a door. If you
experience breathing problems following an airbag
deployment, you should seek medical attention.

2-58

The vehicle has a feature that may automatically unlock
the doors, turn on the interior lamps and hazard warning
flashers, and shut off the fuel system after the airbags
inflate. You can lock the doors, turn off the interior
lamps and hazard warning flashers by using the
controls for those features.

WARNING:

{

A crash severe enough to inflate the airbags may
have also damaged important functions in the
vehicle, such as the fuel system, brake and
steering systems, etc. Even if the vehicle appears
to be drivable after a moderate crash, there may
be concealed damage that could make it difficult
to safely operate the vehicle.

Use caution if you should attempt to restart the
engine after a crash has occurred.

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

.

Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After an
airbag inflates, you will need some new parts for
the airbag system. If you do not get them, the
airbag system will not be there to help protect you
in another crash. A new system will include airbag
modules and possibly other parts. The service
manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace
other parts.

.

The vehicle has a crash sensing and diagnostic
module which records information after a crash.
See Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy

page 9‑18
page 9‑19

.

Let only qualified technicians work on the airbag
systems. Improper service can mean that an
airbag system will not work properly. See your
dealer/retailer for service.

and Event Data Recorders

.

on

on

2-59

Passenger Sensing System

If the vehicle has the passenger airbag status indicator
pictured in the following illustration, then the vehicle
has a passenger sensing system for the right front
passenger position. The passenger airbag status
indicator, if equipped, is visible on the overhead console
when the vehicle is started.

In addition, if the vehicle has a passenger sensing
system for the right front passenger position, the label
on the vehicle's sun visors refers to “ADVANCED
AIRBAGS”.

United States Canada

The words ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off,
will be visible during the system check. If you are
using remote start, if equipped, to start the vehicle
from a distance, you may not see the system check.

When the system check is complete, either the word
ON or OFF, or the symbol for on or off, will be visible.
See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑29.

The passenger sensing system will turn off the right
front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions.
The driver airbag, seat‐mounted side impact airbags,
and the roof-rail airbags are not affected by the
passenger sensing system.

The passenger sensing system works with sensors that
are part of the right front passenger seat and safety
belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence
of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the
right front passenger frontal airbag should be enabled
(may inflate) or not.

According to accident statistics, children are safer when
properly secured in a rear seat in the correct child
restraint for their weight and size.

We recommend that children be secured in a rear seat,
including: an infant or a child riding in a rear-facing child
restraint; a child riding in a forward-facing child seat; an
older child riding in a booster seat; and children, who
are large enough, using safety belts.

A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing
child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the
rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.

2-60

WARNING:

{

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger airbag inflates. This is because the
back of the rear-facing child restraint would be
very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a
forward-facing child restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag
inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward
position.

Even if the passenger sensing system has turned
off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no
system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that
an airbag will not deploy under some unusual
circumstance, even though the airbag is
turned off.

Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear
seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a
forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat,
always move the front passenger seat as far back
as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint
in a rear seat.

The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off
the right front passenger frontal airbag if:

.

The right front passenger seat is unoccupied.

.

The system determines an infant is present in a
child restraint.

.

A right front passenger takes his/her weight off of
the seat for a period of time.

.

Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag
system or the passenger sensing system.

When the passenger sensing system has turned off the
right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator will
light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off.
See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4‑29.

The passenger sensing system is designed to turn on
(may inflate) the right front passenger frontal airbag
anytime the system senses that a person of adult size
is sitting properly in the right front passenger seat.

When the passenger sensing system has allowed the
airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light and
stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active.

2-61

For some children, including children in child restraints,
and for very small adults, the passenger sensing
system may or may not turn off the right front passenger
frontal airbag, depending upon the person's seating
posture and body build. Everyone in your vehicle who
has outgrown child restraints should wear a safety belt
properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that
person.

WARNING:

{

If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and
stays on, it means that something may be wrong
with the airbag system. To help avoid injury to
yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right
away. See Airbag Readiness Light
for more information, including important safety
information.

on page 4‑28

If the On Indicator is Lit for a Child
Restraint

If a child restraint has been installed and the on
indicator is lit:

1. Turn the vehicle off.

2. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle.

3. Remove any additional items from the seat such as
blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters,
or seat massagers.

4. Reinstall the child restraint following the directions
provided by the child restraint manufacturer and
refer to Securing a Child Restraint in the Right
Front Seat Position on page 2‑47.

5. If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting
the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, turn the
vehicle off. Then slightly recline the vehicle
seatback and adjust the seat cushion, if adjustable,
to make sure that the vehicle seatback is not
pushing the child restraint into the seat cushion.

Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped
under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens,
adjust the head restraint. See Head Restraints

page 2‑2

6. Restart the vehicle.

The passenger sensing system may or may not
turn off the airbag for a child in a child restraint
depending upon the child’s seating posture and
body build. It is better to secure the child restraint
in a rear seat.

.

on

2-62

If the Off Indicator is Lit for an
Adult-Size Occupant

If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front
passenger seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be
because that person is not sitting properly in the seat.

If this happens, use the following steps to allow the
system to detect that person and enable the right front
passenger frontal airbag:

1. Turn the vehicle off.

2. Remove any additional material from the seat,
such as blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat
heaters, or seat massagers.

3. Place the seatback in the fully upright position.

4. Have the person sit upright in the seat, centered
on the seat cushion, with legs comfortably
extended.

5. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in
this position for two to three minutes after the on
indicator is lit.

Additional Factors Affecting System
Operation

Safety belts help keep the passenger in position on the
seat during vehicle maneuvers and braking, which helps
the passenger sensing system maintain the passenger
airbag status. See “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints”
in the Index for additional information about the
importance of proper restraint use.

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If the shoulder portion of the belt is pulled out all the
way, the child restraint locking feature will be engaged.
This may unintentionally cause the passenger sensing
system to turn the airbag off for some adult size
occupants. If this happens, let the belt go back all
the way and start again.

A thick layer of additional material, such as a blanket
or cushion, or aftermarket equipment such as seat
covers, seat heaters, and seat massagers can affect
how well the passenger sensing system operates.
We recommend that you not use seat covers or other
aftermarket equipment except when approved by GM
for your specific vehicle. See Adding Equipment to Your

Airbag-Equipped Vehicle

information about modifications that can affect how
the system operates.

The on indicator may be lit if an object, such as a
briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop or other
electronic device, is put on an unoccupied seat.
If this is not desired remove the object from the seat.

WARNING:

{

Stowing of articles under the passenger seat or
between the passenger seat cushion and
seatback may interfere with the proper operation
of the passenger sensing system.

on page 2‑65

for more

Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle

Airbags affect how the vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the airbag system in several places
around the vehicle. Your dealer/retailer and the service
manual have information about servicing the vehicle
and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual,
see Service Publications Ordering Information

page 9‑17

{

For up to 10 seconds after the ignition is turned off
and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still
inflate during improper service. You can be injured
if you are close to an airbag when it inflates. Avoid
yellow connectors. They are probably part of the
airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service
procedures, and make sure the person performing
work for you is qualified to do so.

.

WARNING:

on

2-64

Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle

Q: Is there anything I might add to or change about

the vehicle that could keep the airbags from
working properly?

A: Yes. If you add things that change the vehicle's

frame, bumper system, height, front end or side
sheet metal, they may keep the airbag system from
working properly. Changing or moving any parts of
the front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing and
diagnostic module, steering wheel, instrument panel,
roof-rail airbag modules, ceiling headliner or pillar
garnish trim, overhead console, front sensors, side
impact sensors, rollover sensor module, or airbag
wiring can affect the operation of the airbag system.

In addition, the vehicle may have a passenger
sensing system for the right front passenger
position, which includes sensors that are part of the
passenger seat. The passenger sensing system
may not operate properly if the original seat trim is
replaced with non-GM covers, upholstery or trim,
or with GM covers, upholstery or trim designed for a
different vehicle. Any object, such as an aftermarket
seat heater or a comfort enhancing pad or device,
installed under or on top of the seat fabric, could
also interfere with the operation of the passenger

sensing system. This could either prevent proper
deployment of the passenger airbag(s) or prevent
the passenger sensing system from properly turning
off the passenger airbag(s). See Passenger Sensing
System on page 2‑60.

If you have any questions, call Customer
Assistance. The phone numbers and addresses
for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the
Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual.
See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 9‑2.

If the vehicle has rollover roof-rail airbags, see

Different Size Tires and Wheels

additional important information.

Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my

vehicle modified. How can I find out whether
this will affect my airbag system?

A: If you have questions, call Customer Assistance.

The phone numbers and addresses for Customer
Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer
Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See
Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 9‑2.

In addition, your dealer/retailer and the service manual
have information about the location of the airbag
sensors, sensing and diagnostic module and airbag
wiring.

on page 7‑74

for

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Restraint System Check

Checking the Restraint Systems

Safety Belts

Now and then, check that the safety belt reminder light,
safety belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and
anchorages are all working properly.

Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system
parts that might keep a safety belt system from doing its
job. See your dealer/retailer to have it repaired. Torn or
frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash.
They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn
or frayed, get a new one right away.

Make sure the safety belt reminder light is working.
See Safety Belt Reminders
information.

Keep safety belts clean and dry. See Care of Safety

on page 7‑99

Belts

.

on page 4‑27

for more

Airbags

The airbag system does not need regularly scheduled
maintenance or replacement. Make sure the airbag
readiness light is working. See Airbag Readiness Light

on page 4‑28

Notice: If an airbag covering is damaged, opened,
or broken, the airbag may not work properly. Do not
open or break the airbag coverings. If there are any
opened or broken airbag covers, have the airbag
covering and/or airbag module replaced. For the
location of the airbag modules, see What Makes

an Airbag Inflate?

retailer for service.

for more information.

on page 2‑57

. See your dealer/

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