CHEVROLET Impala 2010 User Manual

2010 Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual M

In Brief

Seats and Restraint System

Features and Controls

........................................................... 1-1

Instrument Panel
Initial Drive Information
Vehicle Features
Performance and Maintenance

Head Restraints
Front Seats
Rear Seats
Safety Belts
Child Restraints
Airbag System
Restraint System Check

Keys
Doors and Locks
Windows
Theft-Deterrent Systems
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
Mirrors

........................................................ 3-3

................................................. 3-14

.................................................... 3-33

........................................ 1-2

............................... 1-4

...................................... 1-15

............................. 2-1

......................................... 2-2

............................................... 2-4

.............................................. 2-10

............................................. 2-12

....................................... 2-32

......................................... 2-56

............................ 2-74

..................................... 3-1

....................................... 3-9

............................ 3-16

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

........... 3-19

Universal Home Remote System
Storage Areas
Sunroof

Instrument Panel

Instrument Panel Overview
Climate Controls
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
Driver Information Center (DIC)
Audio System(s)

Driving Your Vehicle

Your Driving, the Road, and the Vehicle
Towing

Service and Appearance Care

Service
Fuel
Checking Things Under the Hood
Headlamp Aiming
Bulb Replacement
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

..................................................... 6-3

......................................................... 6-5

......................................... 3-42

.................................................. 3-43

............................................. 4-1

.......................... 4-3

...................................... 4-16

....................................... 4-57

....................................... 5-1

................................................... 5-26

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

..................................... 6-43

.................................... 6-43

................ 3-35

........ 4-21

.................. 4-37

....... 5-2

............... 6-12

......... 6-49

Tires
Appearance Care
Vehicle Identification
Electrical System
Capacities and Specifications

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule

...................................................... 6-51

..................................... 6-87

...................................... 6-95

..................................... 7-1

................................. 6-95

................... 6-100

................................ 7-2

Customer Assistance Information

Customer Assistance and Information
Reporting Safety Defects
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy

................................................................ 1

Index

.................... 8-1

........................... 8-16

........... 8-2

........... 8-18

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, the IMPALA
Emblem, and the name IMPALA are registered
trademarks of General Motors Corporation.

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 Chevrolet 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. 25896384 A First Printing

©

2009 General Motors Corporation. 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.

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

{ 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.

iv

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.

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.

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

} : Power

/ : Remote Vehicle Start

> : Safety Belt Reminders

7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
F : Traction Control
M : Windshield Washer Fluid

v

✍ 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 ......................................1-4

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

Trunk Release ...............................................1-5

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

Seat Adjustment .............................................1-6

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

Head Restraint Adjustment ...............................1-8

Safety Belt ....................................................1-9

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag ...............1-9

Mirror Adjustment .........................................1-10

Steering Wheel Adjustment ............................1-11

Interior Lighting ............................................1-11

Exterior Lighting ...........................................1-12

Windshield Wiper/Washer ...............................1-13

Climate Controls ...........................................1-14

Vehicle Features .............................................1-15

Radio(s) ......................................................1-15

Satellite Radio ..............................................1-16

Portable Audio Devices ..................................1-16

Steering Wheel Controls ................................1-17

Bluetooth

®

...................................................1-17

Cruise Control ..............................................1-18

Power Outlets ..............................................1-18

Performance and Maintenance .........................1-19

Traction Control System (TCS) .......................1-19

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) ....................1-19

Tire Pressure Monitor ....................................1-20

Engine Oil Life System ..................................1-20

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) ................................1-20

Driving for Better Fuel Economy .....................1-21

Roadside Assistance Program ........................1-21

®

OnStar

......................................................1-22

1-1

Instrument Panel

1-2

A. Outlet Adjustment on page 4-20.
B. Remote Trunk Release Button. See Trunk on

page 3-12.
C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 4-4.
D. Instrument Panel Cluster on page 4-22.
E. Hazard Warning Flashers on page 4-3.

F. Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 4-37.
G. Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-25.
H. Audio System(s) on page 4-57.

I. Exterior Lamps on page 4-9.

J. Instrument Panel Brightness on page 4-11.

K. Traction Control System (TCS) on page 5-7

(If Equipped).

L. Tilt Wheel on page 4-3.

M. Cruise Control on page 4-6.

N. Hood Release on page 6-13.

O. Horn on page 4-3.

P. Audio Steering Wheel Controls on page 4-84

(If Equipped).

Q. Ignition Positions on page 3-20.

R. Climate Control System on page 4-16.
S. Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 4-15.

T. Center Console Shift Lever (If Equipped).

See Shifting Into Park on page 3-28.

U. Glove Box on page 3-42.

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.
Press and hold

open the trunk.
Press

L and release to locate the vehicle.

Press

L and hold for more than two seconds to sound

the panic alarm.
Press

L again to cancel the panic alarm.

See Keys on page 3-3 and Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System Operation on page 3-4.

V for approximately one second to

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.

Q .

/ until the turn signal lamps flash.

hold

1-4

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:

• Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press

and hold

• Turn on the hazard warning flashers.

• Turn the ignition switch out of LOCK/OFF position

and then back to LOCK/OFF.

See Remote Vehicle Start on page 3-7.

/ until the parking lamps turn off.

Power Door Locks

Power door lock switches are located on the front doors
near the handle.

Q : Press the bottom of the switch to lock all doors.
K : Press the top of the switch to unlock all doors.

For more information, see:

• Power Door Locks on page 3-10.

• Delayed Locking on page 3-10.

Trunk Release

Door Locks

From outside the vehicle, use the key in the door or the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to lock or
unlock the vehicle. From the inside, pull up or push
down on the manual door lock knobs.

See Door Locks on page 3-9.

In addition to the trunk release button on the RKE
transmitter, there is a remote release

located on the left side of the instrument panel.
For more information see Trunk on page 3-12.

G button

1-5

Windows

Seat Adjustment

Manual Seats

On vehicles with power windows, the switches are on
the driver door armrest. Each passenger door has
a switch that controls only that window.

Press the front of the switch to the first position to open
the window. Pull the switch up to close it.

For more information, see Power Windows on
page 3-15.

1-6

1. Lift the bar under the seat to unlock the seat.

2. Slide the seat to the desired position and release
the bar.

Try to move the seat to be sure it is locked in place.
See Manual Seats on page 2-4.

Power Seats

Power Reclining Seatback

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

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

See Power Seats on page 2-5.

To raise or recline the seatback, tilt the top of the
control forward or rearward.

See Reclining Seatbacks on page 2-6.

1-7

Manual Lumbar

Increase or decrease the lumbar support by repeatedly
pushing down or pulling up on the lever.

See Manual Lumbar on page 2-5.

Second Row Seats

On vehicles with the Flip and Fold feature, the bottom
seat cushions can be flipped forward and the seatback
folded down to create an extended cargo area.

The vehicle also has an under seat storage area.
See Split Folding Rear Seat on page 2-10 for more

information.

Head Restraint Adjustment

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

For more information see Head Restraints on page 2-2.

1-8

Safety Belt

Sensing System for Passenger Airbag

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

The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on
the instrument panel when the vehicle is started.

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

• Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 2-12.

• How to Wear Safety Belts Properly on page 2-17.

• Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 2-25.

• Lap Belt on page 2-30.

• Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)

on page 2-43.

United States Canada

See Passenger Sensing System on page 2-66 for
important information.

1-9

Mirror Adjustment

Exterior Mirrors

Controls for the outside
power mirrors are located
on the driver door armrest.

Press the left or right side of the selector located
beneath the control pad to adjust the driver or passenger
mirror. Then press the control pad to move the mirror
to the desired direction.

Interior Mirror

Vehicles with a manual rearview mirror can be adjusted
by holding the mirror in the center to move it for a
clearer view behind the vehicle. Adjust the mirror to
avoid glare from the headlamps behind. Pull the lever,
located at the bottom of the mirror for nighttime use.
Return the lever to its original position for the day
position.

Vehicles with an automatic dimming rearview mirror will
automatically adjust to reduce the glare of lights from
behind the vehicle. See Automatic Dimming Rearview
Mirror on page 3-33.

1-10

Steering Wheel Adjustment

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

To adjust the steering wheel:

1. Hold the wheel and pull the lever towards you.

2. Move the steering wheel up or down into a
comfortable position.

3. Release the lever to lock the steering wheel in
place.

See Tilt Wheel on page 4-3.

Interior Lighting

Dome Lamp

The center mounted dome lamp overhead comes on
when a door is opened. This lamp can also be turned on
by turning the instrument panel brightness control
clockwise.

Reading Lamps

The vehicle has reading lamps that also act as the
dome lamp. Press the button near each lamp to turn
them on and off.

Map Lamps

The vehicle has map lamps on the rearview mirror.
Push the button near each lamp to turn the map lamps
on and off.

For more information on interior lighting, see:

• Instrument Panel Brightness on page 4-11.

• Courtesy Lamps on page 4-11.

• Delayed Entry Lighting on page 4-12.

• Delayed Exit Lighting on page 4-13.

• Parade Dimming on page 4-13.

1-11

Exterior Lighting

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

P : Briefly turn to this position to manually turn the

automatic lamp control and Daytime Running Lamps
(DRL) off or on. For vehicles first sold in Canada, the
off position only works when the vehicle is shifted
into the P (Park) position.

AUTO: Automatic operation of the headlamps and
other exterior lamps at normal brightness.

; : Turns on the the parking lamps and other exterior

lamps.

2 : Turns on the headlamps and other exterior lamps.
# (If Equipped): Turns on the fog lamps.

For more information, see:

• Exterior Lamps on page 4-9.

• Fog Lamps on page 4-11.

• Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)/Automatic

Headlamp System on page 4-10.

1-12

Windshield Wiper/Washer

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

8 : Use for a single wiping cycle.
9 : Turns the windshield wipers off.

6 : Turn the band up for more frequent wipes or down

for less frequent wipes.

6 : Slow wipes.
? : Fast wipes.

Windshield Washer

At the top of the multifunction lever, there is a paddle
with

L on it. Push the paddle to spray washer fluid on

the windshield.
See Windshield Wipers on page 4-5 and Windshield

Washer on page 4-6.

1-13

Climate Controls

This vehicle may have a dual or single climate control
system. The heating, cooling, defrost, defog and
ventilation can be controlled with either of these systems.

Single Zone

Dual Zone with Optional Heated Seat Controls

A. Fan Control
B. Outside Air
C. Recirculation
D. Air Delivery Mode

Control
E. Air Conditioning
F. Driver and

Passenger
Heated Seats

1-14

G. Driver and

Passenger
Temperature
Controls

H. Rear Window

Defogger

A. Fan Control
B. Outside Air
C. Temperature

Control

D. Recirculation

See Climate Control System on page 4-16.

E. Air Delivery Mode

Control
F. Air Conditioning
G. Rear Window

Defogger

Vehicle Features

©¨: Seek or scan stations.

Radio(s)

Radio with CD (MP3)

O : Press to turn the system on and off. Turn to

increase or decrease the volume.
BAND: Press to switch between FM1, FM2 and AM on

the Radio with CD. The selection displays. Press to
switch between FM, AM, and XM™ on the Radio with
CD (MP3).

f : Select radio stations.

4 : Press to display additional text information related to

the current FM-RDS or XM station; or CD, MP3 or
WMA song. If information is available during XM, CD,
MP3 or WMA playback, the song title information
displays on the top line of the display and artist
information displays on the bottom line. When
information is not available, “No Info” displays.

For more information about these and other radio
features, see Audio System(s) on page 4-57.

Storing a Favorite Station

Depending on which radio the vehicle has, radio
stations are stored as either favorites or presets.

For radios with a FAV button, a maximum of 36 stations
can be stored as favorites using the six softkeys located
below the radio station frequency tabs and by using the
radio FAV button. Press FAV to go through up to six
pages of favorites, each having six favorite stations
available per page. Each page of favorites can contain
any combination of AM, FM, or XM stations.

For radios without a FAV button, up to 18 stations
(six FM1, six FM2, and six AM), can be programmed
on the six numbered buttons.

See Radio(s) on page 4-59.

1-15

Setting the Clock

To set the time and date for the Radio with CD (MP3):

1. Turn the radio on.

2. Press

3. Press the pushbutton located below any one of the

4. Increase or decrease the time or date by

For detailed instructions on setting the clock for your
specific audio system, see Setting the Clock on
page 4-58.

H and the HR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY

(hour, minute, month, day, and year) displays.

tabs that you want to change.

turning

f clockwise or counterclockwise.

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)

See “XM Satellite Radio Service” under Radio(s)
on page 4-59.

Portable Audio Devices

This vehicle may have an auxiliary input jack, located
on the audio faceplate. External devices such as iPod®,
MP3 players, etc. can be connected to the auxiliary
input jack using a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) input jack cable.

See “Using the Auxiliary Input Jack” under Radio(s) on
page 4-59.

1-16

Steering Wheel Controls

If equipped, these controls
are located on the right
side of the steering wheel.

w: Press to go to the next radio station stored as a

favorite, or the next track if a CD is playing.

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 the OnStar
Bluetooth systems, if equipped.

®

or

c x: Press to go to the previous radio station stored

as a favorite, the next track if a CD is playing, to
reject an incoming call, or end a current call.

SRCE: Press to choose between the radio, CD, and
auxiliary input jack.

+

e − e : Increases or decreases volume.

¨ : Press to go to the next radio station while in AM,

FM, or XM™. Press
chapter while sourced to the CD.

For more information, see Audio Steering Wheel
Controls on page 4-84.

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

¨ to go to the next track or

®

®

on page 4-74.

1-17

Cruise Control

Power Outlets

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

J : On/Off.

RES+: Press to resume or accelerate speed.
SET−: Press to set or decrease speed.

[ : Press to cancel cruise control.

For more information, see Cruise Control on page 4-6.

1-18

The vehicle has three 12-volt outlets to use with
electrical equipment, such as a cellular telephone.

On vehicles with a center console, one outlet is located
inside the center floor console and two outlets are
located at the front of the console bin under the
instrument panel. Lift the cover to access the outlet.

On vehicles without a center console, two are located
under the climate controls and another outlet for the rear
seat passengers is at the rear of the center front seat.
Remove the cover to access the outlets.

See Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 4-15.

Performance and Maintenance

Traction Control System (TCS)

The vehicle may have a traction control system limits
wheel spin. The system turns on automatically
every time the vehicle is started.

• For vehicles with traction control, press and

release
traction control.

DIC message displays. See DIC Warnings and
Messages on page 4-44.

• For vehicles with traction control and electronic

stability control, press and release
instrument panel to turn off traction control.

F illuminates and the appropriate DIC message

displays. See DIC Warnings and Messages
on page 4-44.

• Press and release the button again to turn on

traction control.

For more information, see Traction Control System
(TCS) on page 5-7.

i on the instrument panel to turn off

F illuminates and the appropriate

5 on the

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

The Electronic Stability Control system assists with
directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving
conditions. The system turns on automatically every
time the vehicle is started.

• To turn off both traction control and Electronic

Stability Control, press and hold
instrument panel until

appropriate DIC message displays. See DIC
Warnings and Messages on page 4-44.

F illuminates and the

• Press and release the button again to turn on both

systems.

For more information, see Electronic Stability Control
(ESC) on page 5-6.

5 on the

1-19

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 5-20.

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 6-60 and
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 6-62.

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 6-18.

Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)

If the vehicle has the 3.5L V6 engine (VIN Code K)
or the 3.9L V6 engine (VIN Code M), you can use either
unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to
85% ethanol (E85). See Fuel on page 6-5. In all other
engines, use only the unleaded gasoline described
under Gasoline Octane on page 6-6.

Vehicles that have the 3.5L V6 engine (VIN Code K) or
the 3.9L V6 engine (VIN Code M) have a yellow fuel
cap and can use 85% ethanol fuel (E85). See Fuel E85
(85% Ethanol) on page 6-8.

1-20

Driving for Better Fuel Economy

Roadside Assistance Program

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.

U.S.: 1-800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872)
TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
As the owner of a new Chevrolet, you are automatically

enrolled in the Roadside Assistance program. This
program provides technically trained advisors who are
available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, minor repair
information or towing arrangements.

Roadside Assistance 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 Assistance, 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/chevrolet
(U.S.) or www.gm.ca (Canada).

1-21

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.

How OnStar Service Works

Q

: This blue button connects you to a specially
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.

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.

Q to speak with an

1-22

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

OnStar call center when
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.

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.

Q is pressed, ] is pressed, or

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 on page 4-84 for more
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.

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

a 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

Q to confirm

1-23

✍ NOTES

1-24

Section 2 Seats and Restraint System

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

Front Seats ......................................................2-4

Manual Seats ................................................2-4

Power Seats ..................................................2-5

Manual Lumbar ..............................................2-5

Heated Seats .................................................2-6

Reclining Seatbacks ........................................2-6

Center Seat ...................................................2-9

Rear Seats .....................................................2-10

Split Folding Rear Seat .................................2-10

Safety Belts ...................................................2-12

Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone ................2-12

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly .................2-17

Lap-Shoulder Belt .........................................2-25

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ..................2-30

Lap Belt ......................................................2-30

Safety Belt Extender .....................................2-31

Child Restraints .............................................2-32

Older Children ..............................................2-32

Infants and Young Children ............................2-35

Child Restraint Systems .................................2-39

Where to Put the Restraint .............................2-42

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children

(LATCH) ..................................................2-43

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat

Position ...................................................2-49

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center

Front Seat Position ....................................2-52

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right

Front Seat Position ....................................2-52

Airbag System ...............................................2-56

Where Are the Airbags? ................................2-59

When Should an Airbag Inflate? .....................2-61

What Makes an Airbag Inflate? .......................2-63

How Does an Airbag Restrain? .......................2-63

What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? .....2-64

Passenger Sensing System

Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ...........2-72

Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped

Vehicle ....................................................2-73

Restraint System Check ..................................2-74

Checking the Restraint Systems ......................2-74

Replacing Restraint System Parts After

a Crash ...................................................2-75

............................2-66

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.

2-3

Front Seats

Manual Seats

{ WARNING:

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to
adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is
moving. The sudden movement could startle and
confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you
do not want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when
the vehicle is not moving.

If the vehicle has a manual seat, it can be moved
forward or rearward.

1. Lift the bar to unlock
the seat.

2. Slide the seat to the
desired position and
release the bar.

Try to move the seat with your body to be sure the seat
is locked in place.

2-4

Power Seats

Driver Seat with Manual Lumbar, Power Seat

Control, and Power Recline shown

On vehicles with power seats, the controls used to
operate them are located on the outboard side of the
seats. To adjust the seat:

• 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.

• Raise or lower the rear part of the seat cushion by

moving the rear of the control up or down.

The driver seat may have power reclining seatbacks.
See “Power Reclining Seatbacks” under Reclining
Seatbacks on page 2-6 for more information.

Manual Lumbar

Driver Seat with Manual Lumbar shown

On vehicles with manual lumbar, the lever is located on
the outboard side of the driver seat near the front of
the seat cushion. Lift up or push down on the lever
repeatedly to increase or decrease lumbar support.

2-5

Heated Seats

Reclining Seatbacks

On vehicles with this
feature, the buttons that
control the driver and front
passenger heated seats
are located on the climate
control panel. See Climate

Control System on
page 4-16.

Press the button to turn on the seat at the high setting.
Both lights below the heated seat symbol are lit.
Press the button a second time to turn the seat to the
low setting. Only the bottom light is lit. Press the button
a third time to turn the heated seat off.

The heated seat feature must be turned on again each
time the ignition is turned off and back on.

2-6

Manual Reclining Seatbacks

{ WARNING:

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to
adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is
moving. The sudden movement could startle and
confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you
do not want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when
the vehicle is not moving.

{ 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.

Passenger Seat with Manual Recline and Power

Seat Control shown

To operate a manual reclining seatback:

1. Lift the recline lever.

2. Move the seatback to the desired position, then
release the lever to lock the seatback in place.

3. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is
locked.

To return the seatback to an upright position:

1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the
seatback and the seatback will return to the upright
position.

2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is
locked.

2-7

Power Reclining Seatback

Driver Seat with Manual Lumbar, Power Seat

Control, and Power Recline shown

The driver seat may have a power reclining seatback.
The control used to operate it is located on the outboard
side of the seat cushion rear of the horizontal power
seat control.

• Press the control rearward to recline the seatback.

• Press the control forward to raise the seatback.

{ WARNING:

Sitting in a reclined position when the vehicle is in
motion can be dangerous. Even when buckled up,
the safety belts cannot do their job when reclined
like this.

The shoulder belt cannot do its job because it will
not be against your body. Instead, it will be in front
of you. In a crash, you could go into it, receiving
neck or other injuries.

The lap belt 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 the safety belt properly.

2-8

Center Seat

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

The vehicle may have a front center seat. There are
cupholders on the underside of the seat cushion. To use
them, flip the seat cushion forward. The seat can also
be used as a storage area by lowering the seatback.
See Center Console Storage on page 3-42.

The seatback doubles as an armrest for the driver or
front passenger when the center seat is unoccupied.

2-9

Rear Seats

Split Folding Rear Seat

Flip and Fold Feature

On vehicles with this feature, you can flip the bottom
seat cushion(s) forward and fold the seatback(s) down to
create an extended flat cargo area.

To use this feature:

1. Make sure the front seats are not reclined. If they
are, the seat cushion will not flip forward completely.

2. Flip the bottom seat cushion forward by pulling up
on the tab located in the center of the seat cushion
where the seatback meets the seat cushion.

2-10

3. Lower the seatback(s)
by pulling forward on
the tab located on
the outboard side of the
seatback(s).

To return the seats to the normal position:

{ 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. Raise the seatback up and make sure it latches.

{ 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.

2. Ensure that the safety belts are properly stowed
over the seatback in all three positions.

3. Flip the bottom seat cushion back into place. Push
firmly on the seat cushion to make sure it is secure.

When the seat is not in use, the seatback should
be placed in an upright, locked position, and the seat
cushion should be in the down position.

Under Seat Storage

The vehicle also has an under seat storage area.
To access the storage area, lift up on the tab located in

the center of the bottom seat cushion where the seat
cushion meets the seatback. See Rear Storage Area on
page 3-42 for more information.

2-11

Safety Belts

Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone

This section of the manual describes how to use
safety belts properly. It also describes some things not
to do with safety belts.

{ WARNING:

{ 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.

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.

2-12

This vehicle has indicators as a reminder to buckle the
safety belts. See Safety Belt Reminders on page 4-23
for additional information.

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 safety 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!

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.

2-13

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

2-14

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

or the instrument panel... or the safety belts!

With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does.
You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance,
and your strongest bones take the forces. That is why
safety belts make such good sense.

2-15

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.

2-16

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 on page 2-32
or Infants and Young Children on page 2-35. Follow
those rules 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.

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.

2-17

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.

2-18

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.

2-19

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.

2-20

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.

2-21

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.

2-22

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.

2-23

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.

2-24

Lap-Shoulder Belt

All seating positions in the vehicle have a lap-shoulder
except for the center front passenger position, if
your vehicle has one, which has a lap belt. See Lap
Belt on page 2-30 for more information.

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 in the
right front seating position may affect the passenger
sensing system. See Passenger Sensing System
on page 2-66.

3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
If the latch plate will not go fully into the buckle,

check if the correct buckle is being used.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt
Extender on page 2-31.

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

2-25

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

2-26

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

The vehicle has shoulder belt height adjusters 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.

You can move the adjuster 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 and near frontal 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.

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 2-75.

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides

This vehicle may have rear shoulder belt comfort guides
for each outboard passenger position in the rear seat. 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.

2-27

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

1. Pull the guide out from the pocket on the edge
of the seatback.

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

3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.
The elastic cord must be under the belt and the
guide on top.

2-28

{ 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.
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.

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 the storage
pocket on the edge of the seatback.

2-29

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

Lap Belt

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.

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.

2-30

This section is only for the lap belt. To learn how to
wear a lap-shoulder belt, see Lap-Shoulder Belt
on page 2-25.

The vehicle may have a center seating position. When
you sit in the center front seating position, you have
a lap safety belt, which has no retractor.

To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it
along the belt.

Buckle, position, and release it the same way as the lap
part of a lap-shoulder belt.

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown
until the belt is snug.

If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender
on page 2-31.

Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned
so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt
quickly if necessary.

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.

2-31

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 2-25 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

length of 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.

2-32

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 2-25.

According to accident statistics, children and infants
are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating
positions than in the front seating positions.

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.

2-33

{ 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.

2-34

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.

{ WARNING:

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.

2-35

{ 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
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.

2-36

{ 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.

2-37

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
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.

2-38

{ 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.

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.

2-39

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.

2-40

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.

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.

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

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) on page 2-43 for more information. A child can
be endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not
properly secured in the vehicle.

{ 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.

2-41

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

A label on your 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:

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

WARNING: (Continued)

WARNING: (Continued)

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 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 on page 2-66 for
additional information.

2-42

{ WARNING:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat
can be badly injured or killed by the frontal airbags
if they inflate. Never secure a child restraint in the
center front seat. It is always better to secure a
child restraint in a rear seat.

Do not use child restraints in the center front seat
position.

When securing a child restraint in a rear seating
position, study the instructions that came with your 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 your vehicle — even when no child
is in it.

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.

2-43

Lower Anchors

Top Tether Anchor

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).

2-44

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 a top tether 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.

To assist you in locating
the lower anchors, each
seating position with lower
anchors has two labels,
near the crease between
the seatback and the
seat cushion.

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

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

2-45

The top tether anchors are located under the covers on
the rear seatback filler panel behind each head restraint.
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.

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.
See Where to Put the Restraint on page 2-42 for
additional information.

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.

2-46

{ 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.

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. Attach and tighten 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.

1.1. Find the lower anchors for the desired
seating position.

1.2. Put the child restraint on the seat.

1.3. Attach and tighten the lower attachments on
the child restraint to the lower anchors.

2-47

2. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that
the top tether be attached, attach and tighten the
top tether to the top tether anchor, if equipped.
Refer to the child restraint instructions and
the following steps:

2.1. Find the top tether anchor.

2.2. Push on the depression at the rear of the
cover and swing the lid open to expose the
top tether anchor.

2.3. Route, attach, and tighten the top tether
according to your child restraint instructions
and the following instructions:

If the position you are
using has a fixed headrest
and you are using a
single tether, route the
tether over the head
restraint.

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

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

2-48

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) on page 2-43

for how and where to install the child restraint using
LATCH. If a child restraint is secured in the vehicle using
a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower Anchors
and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2-43 for top
tether anchor locations.

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.

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 2-42.

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.

2-49

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.

2-50

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.

6. 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 2-43 for
more information.

7. 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.

2-51

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Front Seat Position

{ WARNING:

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat
can be badly injured or killed by the frontal airbags
if they inflate. Never secure a child restraint in the
center front seat. It is always better to secure a
child restraint in a rear seat.

Do not use child restraints in the center front seat
position.

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 2-42.

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

Sensing System on page 2-66 and Passenger Airbag
Status Indicator on page 4-25 for more information,

including important safety information.
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.

2-52

{ 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 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 on page 2-66 for
additional information.

If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower

Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on
page 2-43 for how and where to install the child 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) on page 2-43 for
top tether anchor locations.

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.

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.

When the passenger sensing system has turned
off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the
off indicator on the passenger airbag status indicator
should light and stay lit when the vehicle is
started. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on
page 4-25.

2. Put the child restraint on the seat.

2-53

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.

2-54

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 airbag is off, the off indicator in the passenger
airbag status indicator will come on and stay on when
the vehicle is started.

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 on
page 2-66 for more information.

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

2-55

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

seated directly behind the driver.

• A roof-rail airbag for the right front passenger and

passenger seated directly behind the right front
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.

2-56

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

{ WARNING:

{ 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? on page 2-61.

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.

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.

2-57

{ 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 on

page 2-32 or Infants and Young Children on
page 2-35.

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

The system checks the airbag electrical system for
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical
problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-24
for more information.

2-58

Where Are the Airbags?

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

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

2-59

Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar

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.

2-60

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.

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.

2-61

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 that 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 seat-mounted side impact and
roof-rail airbags. See Airbag System on page 2-56.
Seat-mounted side impact and roof-rail airbags
are intended to inflate in moderate to severe side
crashes. 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 rollovers
or 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.

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.

2-62

What Makes an Airbag Inflate?

How Does an Airbag Restrain?

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 airbag
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.

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.

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? on page 2-61 for more information.

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

2-63

What Will You See After an Airbag
Inflates?

{ WARNING:

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 2-63.

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.

2-64

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.

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 on
page 8-18 and Event Data Recorders on page 8-19.

• 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.

2-65

Passenger Sensing System

The vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the
right front passenger position. The passenger airbag
status indicator will be visible on the instrument
panel when the vehicle is started.

United States

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 to start the vehicle from a distance, if
equipped, you may not see the system check. When
the system check is complete, either the word ON or the
word OFF, or the symbol for on or off, will be visible.
See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-25.

Canada

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 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. 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.

2-66

{ 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 that 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 4-25.

2-67

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.

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 the 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 on page 4-24
for more information, including important safety
information.

2-68

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 2-52.

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
on 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.

2-69

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.

2-70