Chrysler 2005 PT Cruiser Convertible User Manual

SECTION PAGE

1

INTRODUCTION

2

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

4

UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL

5

STARTING AND OPERATING

6

WHAT TO DO IN EMERGENCIES

7

MAINTAINING YOUR VEHICLE

8

MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

9

IF YOU NEED CONSUMER ASSISTANCE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

.............................................................3

..............................9

..............................59

...................................119

.................................................179

..............................................231

...............................................249

..................................................305

.........................................329

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

INDEX

....................................................................339

10

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

1

䡵 Introduction ........................... 4

䡵 How To Use This Manual ..................4

䡵 Warnings And Cautions ................... 6

䡵 Vehicle Identification Number ............... 6

䡵 Vehicle Modifications / Alterations ........... 7

4 INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This manual has been prepared with the assistance of
service and engineering specialists to acquaint you with
the operation and maintenance of your new vehicle. It is
supplemented by a Warranty Information Booklet and
various customer oriented documents. You are urged to
read these publications carefully. Following the instruc­tions and recommendations in this manual will help
assure safe and enjoyable operation of your vehicle.

NOTE: After you read the manual, it should be stored
in the vehicle for convenient reference and remain with
the vehicle when sold, so that the new owner will be
aware of all safety warnings.

When it comes to service, remember that your dealer
knows your vehicle best, has the factory-trained techni­cians and genuine Mopar威 parts, and is interested in
your satisfaction.

WARNING!

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain
vehicle components contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm. In addition,
certain fluids contained in vehicles and certain prod­ucts of component wear contain or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to cause cancer and
birth defects or other reproductive harm.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL

Consult the table of contents to determine which section
contains the information you desire.

The detailed index, at the rear of this manual, contains a
complete listing of all subjects.

Consult the following table for a description of the
symbols that may be used on your vehicle or throughout
this owner’s manual:

INTRODUCTION 5

1

6 INTRODUCTION

WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS

This manual contains WARNINGS against operating
procedures which could result in an accident or bodily
injury. It also contains CAUTIONS against procedures
which could result in damage to your vehicle. If you do
not read this entire manual you may miss important
information. Observe all Warnings and Cautions.

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is found on the
driver’s front corner of the instrument panel, visible
through the windshield. This number also appears on the
vehicle registration or title.

Vehicle Identification Number

VEHICLE MODIFICATIONS / ALTERATIONS

WARNING!

Any modifications or alterations to this vehicle
could seriously affect its roadworthiness and safety
and may lead to an accident resulting in serious
injury or death.

INTRODUCTION 7

1

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

䡵 A Word About Your Keys ..................12

▫ Ignition Key Removal ...................12

▫ Locking Doors With The Key ..............14

▫ Key-In-Ignition Reminder ................14

䡵 Sentry Key ............................14

▫ Replacement Keys ......................16

▫ Sentry Key Programming .................16

▫ General Information ....................17

䡵 Steering Wheel Lock — If Equipped ..........17

2

▫ If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering

Wheel ..............................17

▫ To Release The Steering Wheel Lock .........17

▫ Automatic Transaxle Ignition Interlock System . .18

䡵 Door Locks ............................18

▫ Manual Door Locks .....................18

▫ Power Door Locks .....................19

▫ Central Locking/Unlocking ...............20

▫ Automatic Door Locks ...................20

10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

䡵 Remote Keyless Entry .....................21

▫ To Unlock The Doors ...................21

▫ To Lock The Doors .....................22

▫ Horn Chirp Feature .....................22

▫ Using The Panic Alarm ..................22

▫ To Program Transmitters .................23

▫ General Information ....................23

▫ Transmitter Battery Service ...............24

䡵 Security Alarm System ....................25

▫ To Set The Alarm ......................25

▫ To Disarm The System ...................26

▫ Security System Manual Override ...........26

䡵 Deck Lid ..............................26

▫ Power Deck Lid Release .................27

䡵 Emergency Deck Lid Release Latch ...........28

䡵 Power Windows ........................28

▫ Auto Down Feature ....................29

▫ Wind Buffeting ........................30

䡵 Occupant Restraints ......................30

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belts .....................31

▫ Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure .....37

▫ Seat Belt Pretensioners ...................39

▫ Seat Belts And Pregnant Women ............39

▫ Driver And Front Passenger Supplemental

Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag ............40

▫ Child Restraint ........................49

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 11

䡵 Engine Break-In Recommendations ...........56

䡵 Safety Tips ............................57

▫ Exhaust Gas ..........................57

▫ Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The

Vehicle ..............................57

▫ Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside

The Vehicle ..........................58

2

12 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

A WORD ABOUT YOUR KEYS

The dealer that sold you your new vehicle has the key
code numbers for your vehicle locks. These numbers can
be used to order duplicate keys from your dealer. Ask
your dealer for these numbers and keep them in a safe
place.

The double sided keys
may be inserted into the
locks with either side up.

Vehicle Key

Ignition Key Removal

Automatic Transaxle

Place the shift lever in PARK and make sure that the shift
knob push button has returned to the out position. Turn
the ignition switch to the OFF position, then to the LOCK
position, and remove the key.

Ignition Key Positions

NOTE: If you try to remove the key before you place the
lever in PARK, the key may become trapped temporarily
in the ignition cylinder. If this occurs, rotate the key to the
right slightly, then remove the key as described. If a
malfunction occurs, the system will trap the key in the
ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is
inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but
the key cannot be removed until you obtain service.

Manual Transaxle

Depress and hold the release button located between the
ignition switch and the instrument panel. Turn the igni­tion switch to the LOCK position and remove the key.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 13

2

Ignition Key Positions

14 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is danger­ous for a number of reasons. A child or others could
be injured. Children should be warned not to touch
the parking brake, brake pedal or the gear selector
lever. Don’t leave the keys in the ignition. A child
could operate power windows, other controls, or
move the vehicle.

CAUTION!

An unlocked car is an invitation to thieves. Always
remove key from the ignition and lock all doors
when leaving the vehicle unattended.

Locking Doors With The Key

You can insert the key with either side up. To lock the
door, turn the key rearward, to unlock the door, turn the
key forward. See Section 7 of this manual for door lock
lubrication.

Key-In-Ignition Reminder

Opening the driver’s door when the key is in the ignition,
sounds a signal to remind you to remove the key.

NOTE: With the driver’s door open, and the key in the
ignition, the power door locks will not function.

SENTRY KEY

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System prevents unautho­rized operation of the vehicle by disabling the engine.
The system will shut the engine off after 2 seconds of
running if an invalid key is used to start the vehicle. This
system utilizes ignition keys which have an electronic

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 15

chip (transponder) embedded into them. Only keys that
have been programmed to the vehicle can be used to start
and operate the vehicle.

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System does not need to be
armed or activated. Operation of the system is automatic
regardless of whether or not the vehicle is locked or
unlocked. During normal operation, the Theft Alarm/
Immobilizer Light will come on for three (3) seconds
immediately after the ignition switch is turned on for a
bulb check. Afterwards, if the bulb remains on, this
indicates a problem with the electronics.

If the bulb begins to flash after the bulb check, this
indicates that an invalid key has been used to start the
vehicle. Both of these conditions will result in the engine
being shut off after two (2) seconds of running.

Keep in mind that a key which has not been programmed
is also considered an invalid key even if it is cut to fit the
ignition lock cylinder for that vehicle.

If the Theft Alarm/Immobilizer Light comes on during
normal vehicle operation (vehicle has been running for
longer than 10 seconds), a fault has been detected in the
electronics and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as
possible.

NOTE:

•

The Sentry Key Immobilizer System is not compatible
with remote starting systems. Use of these systems
may result in vehicle starting problems and loss of
security protection.

•

Exxon/Mobil Speed Pass,™ additional Sentry Keys, or
any other transponder equipped components on the
same keychain will not cause a key-related (transpon­der) fault unless the additional part is physically held
against the ignition key being used when starting the
vehicle. Cell phones, pagers, or other RF electronics
will not cause interference with this system.

2

16 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

All of the keys provided with your new vehicle have
been programmed to the vehicle electronics.

Replacement Keys

NOTE: Only keys that have been programmed to the
vehicle electronics can be used to start the vehicle. Once
a Sentry Key has been programmed to a vehicle, it can
not be programmed to any other vehicle.

At the time of purchase, the original owner is provided
with a four digit PIN number. This number is required
for dealer replacement of keys. Duplication of keys may
be performed at an authorized dealer or by using the
Customer Key Programming procedure. This procedure
consists of programming a blank key to the vehicle
electronics. A blank key is one which has never been
programmed.

NOTE: When having the Sentry Key Immobilizer
System serviced, bring all vehicle keys with you to the
dealer.

Sentry Key Programming

You can program new keys to the system if you have two
valid sentry keys by performing the following procedure:

1. Cut the additional Sentry Key Transponder blank(s) to
match the ignition switch lock cylinder key code.

2. Insert the first valid key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON for at least 3 seconds but no
longer than 15 seconds. Turn the ignition switch OFF and
remove the first key.

3. Insert the second valid key and turn the ignition
switch ON within 15 seconds. After ten seconds a chime
will sound and the Theft Alarm Light will begin to flash.
Turn the ignition switch OFF and remove the second key.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 17

4. Insert a blank Sentry Key into the ignition switch and
turn the ignition switch ON within 60 seconds. After 10
seconds a single chime will sound. The Theft Alarm Light
will stop flashing, turn on for 3 seconds; then turn off.

The new Sentry Key has been programmed.

Repeat this procedure to program up to a total of 8 keys.
If you do not have a programmed sentry key, contact
your dealer for details.

General Information

The Sentry Key system complies with FCC rules part 15
and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is
subject to the following conditions:

•

This device may not cause harmful interference.

•

This device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause undes­ired operation.

STEERING WHEEL LOCK — IF EQUIPPED

Your vehicle may be equipped with a passive steering
wheel lock. This lock prevents steering the vehicle with­out the ignition key. If the steering wheel is moved no
more than 1/2 turn in either direction and the key is not
in the ignition switch, the steering wheel will lock.

If You Wish To Manually Lock The Steering
Wheel:

With the engine running, turn the steering wheel upside
down, turn off the engine and remove the key. Turn the
steering wheel slightly in either direction until the lock
engages.

To Release The Steering Wheel Lock:

Insert the key in the ignition switch and start the engine.
If the key is difficult to turn, move the wheel slightly to
the right or left to disengage the lock.

NOTE: If you turned the wheel to the right to engage
the lock, you must turn the wheel slightly to the right to

2

18 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

disengage it. If you turned the wheel to the left to engage
the lock, turn the wheel slightly to the left to disengage it.

Automatic Transaxle Ignition Interlock System

This system prevents the key from being removed unless
the shift lever is in PARK and the shift knob push-button
is out. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the
key is in the OFF, or ON positions.

DOOR LOCKS

Manual Door Locks

Use the manual door lock plunger to lock the doors from
inside the vehicle. If the plunger is down when the door
is closed, the door will lock. Therefore, make sure the
keys are not inside the vehicle before closing the door.

Door Lock Plunger

WARNING!

For personal security, and safety in the event of an
accident, lock the vehicle doors as you drive as well
as when you park and leave the vehicle.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 19

WARNING!

When leaving the vehicle always remove the key
from the ignition lock, and lock your vehicle. Do not
leave children unattended in the vehicle, or with
access to an unlocked vehicle. Unsupervised use of
vehicle equipment may cause severe personal inju­ries and death.

CAUTION!

An unlocked vehicle is an invitation to thieves.
Always remove the key from the ignition and lock
all of the doors when leaving the vehicle unattended.

Power Door Locks

A door lock switch is on each front door panel. Press this
switch to lock or unlock the doors.

2

Power Door Lock Switch

20 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Central Locking/Unlocking

All vehicle doors and deck lid are locked with the first
turn of the key to the LOCK position. The double unlock
activation feature requires you to turn the key in the
cylinder lock two times within five seconds to UNLOCK
all vehicle doors at once. You may turn this feature off
and unlock all the doors with one turn of the key by
following these instructions.

NOTE: Steps 2 and 3 must be completed within 10
seconds.

1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition
switch.

2. Cycle the ignition switch ON/OFF four times ending
in the OFF position.

3. Press the interior door lock switch to the UNLOCK
position.

4. A single chime will sound to signify that you have
successfully disabled the double activation feature.

You can turn the feature back on by repeating the above
mentioned procedure.

Automatic Door Locks

The doors will lock automatically if:

1. all doors are closed,

2. vehicle speed is above 15 mph (24 km/h),

3. the accelerator pedal is depressed.

The Automatic Door Locks can be enabled or disabled by
performing the following procedure:

NOTE: Steps 2 and 3 must be completed within 10
seconds.

1. Close all doors and place the key in the ignition
switch.

2. Cycle the ignition switch ON/OFF four times ending
in the OFF position.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 21

3. Press the interior door lock switch to the LOCK
position.

4. A single chime will sound to signify that you have
successfully completed the programming.

You can turn the feature back on by repeating the above
mentioned procedure.

REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY

This system allows you to lock or unlock the doors and
activate the panic alarm from distances up to about 23
feet (7 meters) using a hand held transmitter. The trans­mitter need not be pointed at the vehicle to activate the
system.

2

To Unlock The Doors:

Press and release the UNLOCK button on the key fob
once to unlock the driver’s door, or twice within five
seconds to unlock all doors, the park lights will also flash
twice. The interior lights also come on and remain on for
about 30 seconds when you unlock the doors.

NOTE: You may turn off this feature and unlock all
doors with one press of the button by following the
procedure shown in the Central Locking/Unlocking
paragraph.

22 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To Lock The Doors:

Press and release the LOCK button to lock all doors. The
park lights will flash and the horn will chirp to acknowl­edge the signal.

Horn Chirp Feature

The horn chirp that signals that the doors have been
locked can be turned on or off by using the following
procedure:

1. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the
switch to the ON position.

2. Press and hold the Unlock button on the transmitter
for between four and ten seconds.

3. Continue to hold the Unlock button and press the
Lock button.

4. Release both buttons.

A chime will sound to signify that the process is com­plete.

Using The Panic Alarm:

To turn on the panic alarm feature, press and release the
PANIC button. When the panic alarm is on the headlights
and park lights will flash, the horn will pulse on and off
and the interior lights will turn on.

The panic alarm will stay on for 3 minutes unless you
press the PANIC button a second time, or until vehicle
speed reaches 15 mph (24 km/h).

NOTE: When you turn off the panic alarm by pressing
the PANIC button a second time, you may have to be
closer to the vehicle due to the radio frequency noises of
the system.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 23

To Program Transmitters

Up to four transmitters can be programmed to your
vehicle. Your new vehicle was shipped with two trans­mitters. See your dealer for additional transmitters.

Additional transmitters can be programmed to the sys­tem by using the following procedure:

1. Insert the key into the ignition switch and turn the
switch to the ON position.

2. Press and hold the Unlock button on the transmitter
between four and ten seconds.

3. Continue to hold the Unlock button and press the
Panic button. A chime will sound to indicate that the
transmitter programming mode has been entered.

4. Press a button on all transmitters to be programmed to
the system, including any previously programmed trans­mitters. A chime will sound when each transmitter has
been programmed.

5. Turn the ignition switch off to exit the transmitter
programming mode.

General Information

This device complies with FCC rules part 15 and with
RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the
following conditions:

•

This device may not cause harmful interference.

•

This device must accept any interference that may be
received, including interference that may cause undes­ired operation.

If your transmitter fails to operate from a normal dis­tance, check for these two conditions.

1. Weak batteries in transmitter. The expected life of
batteries is from one to two years.

2. Closeness to a radio transmitter such as a radio station
tower, airport transmitter, and some mobile or CB radios.

2

24 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Transmitter Battery Service

The recommended replacement battery is 2016 or its
equivalent.

NOTE: Do not touch the battery terminals that are on
the back housing or the printed circuit board.

1. With the transmitter buttons facing down, use a thin
coin to pry the two halves of the transmitter apart. Make
sure not to damage the rubber gasket during removal.

2. Remove and replace the batteries. Avoid touching the
new batteries with your fingers. Skin oils may cause
battery deterioration. If you touch a battery, clean it with
rubbing alcohol.

3. To reassemble the transmitter case snap two halves
together. Make sure there is an even gap between the two
halves. Test transmitter operation.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 25

SECURITY ALARM SYSTEM

The system monitors the doors, deck lid, and ignition
switch for unauthorized operation.

If something triggers the alarm, the system will signal for
about 18 minutes. For the first 3 minutes the horn will
sound and the headlights, park lights, tail lights and the
indicator light in the cluster will flash. Then the exterior
lights will flash for another 15 minutes.

If the monitored system, which triggered the alarm is
deactivated the alarm will continue to sound until 3
minutes of alarm time is reached. If the monitored
system, which triggered the alarm is deactivated after the
alarm has been on for 3 minutes the alarm will shut off
immediately.

To set the alarm:

1. Remove the keys from the ignition switch and get out
of the vehicle.

2. Lock the door using either the door key, power door
lock switch, or the Keyless Entry Transmitter and close all
doors.

3. The indicator light in the instrument cluster will flash
rapidly for 16 seconds. This shows that the system is
arming. During this period, if a door is opened, the
ignition switch is turned ON, or the power door locks are
unlocked in any manner, the system will automatically
disarm. After 16 seconds the indicator light will flash
slowly. This shows that the system is fully armed.

2

26 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

To disarm the system:

Unlock a front door/deck lid using either the key or the
Keyless Entry Transmitter.

Starting the vehicle with a valid Sentry key will disarm
the system. A valid key is one that is programmed to that
particular vehicle. A valid key will disarm the system, an
invalid key will trigger the alarm.

Tamper Alert

If the horn sounds 3 times when you unlock a front door
using either a key or the Keyless Entry Transmitter, the
alarm has been activated. Check the vehicle for tamper­ing.

Security System Manual Override

The system will not arm if you lock the doors using the
manual door lock plunger.

Door Lock Plunger

DECK LID

NOTE: The key that is used to start the vehicle is also
used to lock or unlock the doors and open the deck lid.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 27

To open the deck lid, insert the key into the lock and turn
to the right. The deck lid can also be opened using the
remote keyless entry or by using the power deck lid
release switch, located in the glove box.

WARNING!

•

Driving with the deck lid open can allow poison­ous exhaust gases into your vehicle. You and your
passengers could be injured by these fumes. Keep
the deck lid closed when you are operating the
vehicle.

•

If you are required to drive with the deck lid
open, make sure that all windows are closed, and
the climate control blower switch is set at high
speed. DO NOT use the recirculation mode.

Gas props support the deck lid in the open position.
However, because the gas pressure drops with tempera­ture, it may be necessary to assist the props when
opening the deck lid in cold weather.

Power Deck Lid Release

You can open the deck lid by pressing the Remote
Keyless Entry Button or from inside the vehicle, using the
switch located inside the glove box. The power deck lid
release switch is disabled when the vehicle speed exceeds
5 mph (8 km/h), or when the vehicle theft alarm is in the
armed or alarming state.

2

28 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

EMERGENCY DECK LID RELEASE LATCH

WARNING!

Do not allow children to have access to the trunk,
either by climbing into the trunk from outside, or
through the inside of the vehicle. Always close the
deck lid when your vehicle is unattended. Once in
the trunk, young children may not be able to escape,
even if they entered through the rear seat. If trapped
in the trunk, children can die from suffocation or
heat stroke.

As a security measure, an emergency deck lid release
lever is built into the deck lid latching mechanism. In the
event of an individual being locked inside the trunk, the
trunk can be simply opened by pulling on the glow-in­the-dark lever attached to the deck lid latching mecha­nism. See following picture.

Emergency Deck Lid Release Handle

POWER WINDOWS

The power window switches are located on the instru­ment panel above the A/C controls. The top left switch
controls the left front window and the top right switch
controls the right front window.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 29

The lower left switch controls the left rear passenger’s
window and the lower right switch controls the right rear
passenger’s window.

Power Window Switches

WARNING!

Never leave children in a vehicle, with the keys in
the ignition switch. Occupants, particularly unat­tended children, can become entrapped by the win­dows while operating the power window switches.
Such entrapment may result in serious injury or
death.

Auto Down Feature

The driver’s and passenger’s front window switches
have an auto down feature. Press the window switch past
the detent, release, and the window will go down auto­matically. Press the switch a second time in either direc­tion to stop the window.

To open the window part way, press the window switch
part way and release it when you want the window to
stop.

2

30 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Wind Buffeting

Wind buffeting can be described as the perception of
pressure on the ears or a helicopter type sound in the
ears. Your vehicle may exhibit wind buffeting with the
windows down. This is a normal occurrence and can be
minimized. If buffeting occurs with the rear windows
open, open the front and rear windows together to
minimize the buffeting.

OCCUPANT RESTRAINTS

Some of the most important safety features in your
vehicle are the restraint systems. These include the front
and rear seat belts for the driver and all passengers, front
airbags for both the driver and front passenger and if
equipped, side airbags for both the driver and front
passenger. If you will be carrying children too small for
adult-size seat belts, your seat belts or the LATCH feature
also, can be used to hold infant and child restraint
systems.

Please pay close attention to the information in this
section. It tells you how to use your restraint system
properly to keep you and your passengers as safe as
possible.

WARNING!

In a collision, you and your passengers can suffer
much greater injuries if you are not properly buck­led up. You can strike the interior of your vehicle or
other passengers, or you can be thrown out of the
vehicle. Always be sure you and others in your
vehicle are buckled up properly.

Buckle up even though you are an excellent driver, even
on short trips. Someone on the road may be a poor driver
and cause a collision that includes you. This can happen
far away from home or on your own street.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 31

Research has shown that seat belts save lives, and they
can reduce the seriousness of injuries in a collision. Some
of the worst injuries happen when people are thrown
from the vehicle. Seat belts reduce the possibility of
ejection and the risk of injury caused by striking the
inside of the vehicle. Everyone in a motor vehicle should
be belted at all times.

Lap/Shoulder Belts

NOTE: The Lap/Shoulder belt is designed with a half
twist in the lower end of the belt. This was done by the
manufacturer to provide optimal comfort for the wearer.
If the belt webbing is twisted, and comes in contact with
the wearers body, the twisted belt should be corrected
using the Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure
found in this section.

All the seats in your vehicle are equipped with Lap/
Shoulder Belts.

The belt webbing retractor is designed to lock during
very sudden stops or collisions. This feature allows the
shoulder part of the belt to move freely with you under
normal conditions. But in a collision, the belt will lock
and reduce the risk of your striking the inside of the
vehicle or being thrown out.

2

32 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

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 seat
belts.

•

Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and
using a seat belt properly.

WARNING!

•

Wearing a seat belt incorrectly is dangerous. Seat
belts are designed to go around the large bones of
your body. These are the strongest parts of your
body and can take the forces of a collision the
best.

•

Wearing your belt in the wrong place could make
your injuries in a collision much worse. You
might suffer internal injuries, or you could even
slide out of part of the belt. Follow these instruc­tions to wear your seat belt safely and to keep
your passengers safe, too.

•

Two people should never be belted into a single
seat belt. People belted together can crash into one
another in an accident, hurting one another badly.
Never use a lap/shoulder belt or lap belt for more
than one person, no matter what their size.

Lap/Shoulder Belt Operating Instructions

1. Enter the vehicle and close the door. Sit back and
adjust the seat.

2. The seat belt latch plate is above the back of the front
seat, next to your arm. Grasp the latch plate and pull out
the belt. Slide the latch plate up the webbing as far as
necessary to allow the belt to go around your lap.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 33

2

Latch Plate

34 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

3. When the belt is long enough to fit, insert the latch
plate into the buckle until you hear a “click.”

Latch Plate To Buckle

WARNING!

•

A belt that is buckled into the wrong buckle will not
protect you properly. The lap portion could ride too
high on your body, possibly causing internal injuries.
Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

•

A belt that is too loose will not protect you as well. In a
sudden stop you could move too far forward, increasing
the possibility of injury. Wear your seat belt snugly.

•

A belt that is worn under your arm is very dangerous.
Your body could strike the inside surfaces of the vehicle
in a collision, increasing head and neck injury. A belt
worn under the arm can cause internal injuries. Ribs
aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. Wear the belt over
your shoulder so that your strongest bones will take the
force in a collision.

•

A shoulder belt placed behind you will not protect you
from injury during a collision. You are more likely to hit
your head in a collision if you do not wear your
shoulder belt. The lap and shoulder belt are meant to be
used together.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 35

4. Position the lap belt across your thighs, below your
abdomen. To remove slack in the lap belt portion, pull up
on the shoulder belt. To loosen the lap belt if it is too tight,
tilt the latch plate and pull on the lap belt. A snug belt
reduces the risk of sliding under the belt in a collision.

Removing Slack From Belt

WARNING!

• A lap belt worn too high can increase the risk of
internal injury in a collision. The belt forces won’t
be at the strong hip and pelvic bones, but across your
abdomen. Always wear the lap belt as low as pos­sible and keep it snug.

• A twisted belt can’t do its job as well. In a collision
it could even cut into you. Be sure the belt is straight.
If you can’t straighten a belt in your vehicle, take it
to your dealer and have it fixed.

5. Position the shoulder belt on your chest so that it is
comfortable and not resting on your neck. The retractor
will withdraw any slack in the belt.

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36 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

6. To release the belt, push the red button on the buckle.
The belt will automatically retract to its stowed position.
If necessary, slide the latch plate down the webbing to
allow the belt to retract fully.

WARNING!

A frayed or torn belt could rip apart in a collision
and leave you with no protection. Inspect the belt
system periodically, checking for cuts, frays, or loose
parts. Damaged parts must be replaced immediately.
Do not disassemble or modify the system. Seat belt
assemblies must be replaced after a collision if they
have been damaged (bent retractor, torn webbing,
etc.).

Seat Belt Webbing Guide

NOTE: The manufacturer recommends that the seat belt

is routed through the seat belt webbing guide when
using the seatbelt.

The seat belt webbing guide should be used to improve
seat belt accessibility. The seat belt can be removed from
the guide to allow for easier access to the rear seats.

Seat Belt Webbing Guide

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 37

Lap/Shoulder Belt Untwisting Procedure

Use the following procedure to untwist a twisted lap/
shoulder belt.

1. Position the latch plate as close as possible to the
anchor point.

Positioning Latch Plate

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38 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

2. At about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) above the latch
plate, grasp and twist the belt webbing 180° to create a
fold that begins immediately above the latch plate.

Creating A Fold Sliding The Latch Plate

3. Slide the latch plate upward over the folded webbing.
The folded webbing must enter the slot at the top of the
latch plate.

4. Continue to slide the latch plate up until it clears the
folded webbing.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 39

Seat Belt Pretensioners

The seat belts for both front seating positions are
equipped with pretensioning devices that are designed to
remove slack from the seat belt in the event of a collision.
These devices improve the performance of the seat belt
by assuring that the belt is tight about the occupant early
in a collision. Pretensioners work for all size occupants,
including those in child restraints.

NOTE: These devices are not a substitute for proper seat
belt placement by the occupant. The seat belt still must be
worn snugly and positioned properly.

The pretensioners are triggered by the front airbag con­trol module (see Airbag Section). Like the front airbags,
the pretensioners are single use items. After a collision
that is severe enough to deploy the airbags and preten­sioners, both must be replaced.

Seat Belts And Pregnant Women

We recommend that pregnant women use the seat belts
throughout their pregnancy. Keeping the mother safe is
the best way to keep the baby safe.

Pregnant women should wear the lap part of the belt
across the thighs and as snug across the hips as possible.
Keep the belt low so that it does not come across the
abdomen. That way the strong bones of the hips will take
the force if there is a collision.

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40 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Driver and Front Passenger Supplemental
Restraint System (SRS) - Airbag

This vehicle has airbags for both the driver and front
passenger as a supplement to the seat belt restraint
systems. The driver’s front airbag is mounted in the
center of the steering wheel. The passenger’s front airbag
is mounted in the instrument panel, above the glove
compartment. The words SRS AIRBAG are embossed on
the airbag covers.

Front Airbag Components

NOTE: The front airbags are certified to the Federal

regulations that allow less forceful deployment.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 41

If the vehicle is equipped with side airbags, they are
located inside the driver and front passenger seats, and
their covers are also labeled SRS AIRBAG.

Side Airbags

WARNING!

•

Do not put anything on or around the airbag
covers or attempt to manually open them. You
may damage the airbags and you could be injured
because the airbags are not there to protect you.
These protective covers for the airbag cushions are
designed to open only when the airbags are in­flating.

•

If your vehicle is equipped with side airbags, do
not use accessory seat covers or place objects
between you and the side airbags; the perfor­mance could be adversely affected and/or objects
could be pushed into you, causing serious injury.

•

If your vehicle is equipped with side airbags, do
not attach cup holders or any other objects on or
around the door. The inflating side airbag could
drive the object into occupants, causing serious
injury.

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42 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Airbags inflate in moderate to high speed impacts. Along
with seat belts and pretensioners, front airbags work with
the instrument panel knee bolsters to provide improved
protection for the driver and front passenger. Side airbags
also work with seat belts to improve occupant protection.

The seat belts are designed to protect you in many types
of collisions. The front airbags deploy in moderate to
severe frontal collisions. If your vehicle is equipped, the
side airbag on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered in
moderate to severe side collisions. In certain types of
collisions, both the front and side airbags may be trig­gered. But even in collisions where the airbags work, you
need the seat belts to keep you in the right position for
the airbags to protect you properly.

Here are some simple steps you can take to minimize the
risk of harm from a deploying airbag.

1. Children 12 years old and under should always ride

buckled up in a rear seat.

Infants in rear facing child restraints should NEVER ride
in the front seat of a vehicle with a passenger front airbag.
An airbag deployment can cause severe injury or death to
infants in that position.

Children that are not big enough to properly wear the
vehicle seat belt (see Section on Child Restraints) should
be secured in the rear seat in child restraints or belt­positioning booster seats. Older children who do not use
child restraints or belt-positioning booster seats should
ride properly buckled up in the rear seat. Never allow
children to slide the shoulder belt behind them or under
their arm.

If a child from 1 to 12 years old must ride in the front
passenger seat because the vehicle is crowded, move the
seat as far back as possible, and use the proper child
restraint. Refer to the section on Child Restraint.

You should read the instructions provided with your
child restraint to make sure that you are using it properly.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 43

2. All occupants should wear their lap and shoulder
belts properly.

3. The driver and front passenger seats should be
moved back as far as practical to allow the front airbags
room to inflate.

4. If your vehicle has side airbags, do not lean against
the door, airbags will inflate forcefully into the space
between you and the door.

WARNING!

•

Relying on the airbags alone could lead to more
severe injuries in a collision. The airbags work
with your seat belt to restrain you properly. In
some collisions the airbags won’t deploy at all.
Always wear your seat belts even though you
have airbags.

•

Being too close to the steering wheel or instru­ment panel during front airbag deployment could
cause serious injury. Airbags need room to inflate.
Sit back, comfortably extending your arms to
reach the steering wheel or instrument panel.

•

If the vehicle has side airbags, they also need
room to inflate. Do not lean against the door. Sit
upright in the center of the seat.

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44 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

The front airbag system consists of the following:

•

Airbag Control Module (ACM)

•

AIRBAG Readiness Light

•

Driver and Passenger Front Airbag/Inflator Units

•

Unique Steering Wheel and Column

•

Unique Instrument Panel

•

Interconnecting Wiring

•

Seat Belt Pretensioners

•

Knee Impact Bolster

The Side Airbag System, on vehicles equipped, consists
of the following:

•

AIRBAG Readiness Light (shared with the front airbag
system)

•

Side Airbag in the driver’s seat

•

Side Airbag in the passenger’s seat

•

Airbag Control Module (shared with the front airbag
system)

•

Side impact sensors

•

Interconnecting Wiring

How The Front Airbag System Works

The airbag control module determines if a frontal

•

impact is severe enough to require the airbags to
inflate. The control module will not detect, roll over, or
rear collisions. The airbag control module will only
detect side collisions if the vehicle is so equipped with
side airbags.

The airbag control module also monitors the readiness
of the electronic parts of the system whenever the
ignition switch is in the START or ON positions. These
include all of the items listed above except the knee

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 45

bolster, instrument panel and the steering wheel and
column. If the key is in the OFF position, in the ACC
position, or not in the ignition switch, the airbags are
not on and will not inflate.

The airbag control module also turns on the
AIRBAG light in the instrument panel for 6 to

8 seconds when the ignition switch is first
turned ON, then turns the light off. If the front or side
airbag control modules detect a malfunction in any
part of the system, the airbag light will turn on either
momentarily or continuously.

WARNING!

Ignoring the AIRBAG light in your instrument panel
could mean you won’t have the airbags to protect
you in a collision. If the light does not come on, stays
on after you start the vehicle, or if it comes on as you
drive, have the airbag system checked right away.

•

When the airbag control module detects a collision
requiring the front airbags, it signals the inflator units.
A large quantity of nontoxic gas is generated to inflate
the front airbags. The front airbag covers separate and
fold out of the way as the front airbags inflate to their
full size. The front airbags fully inflate in about 50
milliseconds. This is only about half of the time it takes
you to blink your eyes. The front airbags then quickly
deflate while helping to restrain the driver and front
passenger. The driver’s front airbag gas is vented
through the airbag material towards the instrument

2

46 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

panel. The passenger’s front airbag gas is vented
through vent holes in the sides of the airbag. In this
way the front airbags do not interfere with your
control of the vehicle.

•

The Knee Impact Bolsters help protect the knees and
position you for the best interaction with the front
airbags.

Side Airbags Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS)—If Equipped

If so equipped, the airbag control module determines if a
side collision is severe enough to require the side airbags
to inflate. The airbag control module will not detect roll
over, front or rear collisions.

The Airbag Control Module monitors the readiness of the
electronic parts of the system whenever the ignition
switch is in the START or ON positions. These include all
of the items listed under “The Side Airbag System”,on
vehicles equipped, consists of the following”.

In moderate to severe side collisions, the side airbag
inflator on the crash side of the vehicle is triggered,
releasing a quantity of nontoxic gas. The inflating side
airbag exits through the seat seam into the space between
the occupant and the door. The side airbag moves at a
very high speed and with such a high force, that it could
injure you if you are not seated properly, or if items are
positioned in the area where the side airbag inflates. This
especially applies to children.

If A Deployment Occurs

The airbag systems are designed to deploy when the
airbag control module detects a moderate-to-severe col­lision, to help restrain the driver and front passenger, and
then immediately deflate.

NOTE: A collision that is not severe enough to need
airbag protection will not activate the system. This does
not mean something is wrong with the airbag system.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 47

If you do have a collision which deploys the airbags, any
or all of the following may occur:

•

The nylon airbag material may sometimes cause abra­sions and/or skin reddening to the driver and front
passenger as the airbags deploy and unfold. The
abrasions are similar to friction rope burns or those
you might get sliding along a carpet or gymnasium
floor. They are not caused by contact with chemicals.
They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.
However, if you haven’t healed significantly within a
few days, or if you have any blistering, see your doctor
immediately.

•

As the airbags deflate you may see some smoke-like
particles. The particles are a normal by-product of the
process that generates the nontoxic gas used for airbag
inflation. These airborne particles may irritate the skin,
eyes, nose, or throat. If you have skin or eye irritation,
rinse the area with cool water. For nose or throat

irritation, move to fresh air. If the irritation continues,
see your doctor. If these particles settle on your
clothing, follow the garment manufacturer’s instruc­tions for cleaning.

•

It is not advisable to drive your vehicle after the
airbags have deployed. If you are involved in another
collision, the airbags and seat belt pretensioners will
not be in place to protect you.

WARNING!

Deployed airbags and seat belt pretensioners cannot
protect you in another collision. Have the airbags
and seat belt pretensioners replaced by an autho­rized dealer as soon as possible.

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48 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Maintaining Your Airbag System

WARNING!

•

Modifications to any part of the airbag system
could cause it to fail when you need it. You could
be injured because the airbags are not there to
protect you. Do not modify the components or
wiring, including adding any kind of badges or
stickers to the steering wheel hub trim cover or
the upper right side of the instrument panel. Do
not modify the front bumper, vehicle body struc­ture, or frame.

•

You need proper knee impact protection in a
collision. Do not mount or locate any aftermarket
equipment on or behind the knee bolsters.

•

It is dangerous to try to repair any part of the
airbag system yourself. Be sure to tell anyone who
works on your vehicle that it has airbags.

Airbag Light

You will want to have the airbags ready to inflate for your
protection in a collision. While the airbag system is
designed to be maintenance free, if any of the following
occurs, have an authorized dealer service the system
immediately.

•

The AIRBAG light does not come on or flickers during
the 6 to 8 seconds when the ignition switch is first
turned on.

•

The light remains on or flickers after the 6 to 8 second
interval.

•

The light flickers or comes on and remains on while
driving.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 49

Child Restraint

Everyone in your vehicle needs to be buckled up at all
times — babies and children, too. Every state in the
United States and all Canadian provinces require that
small children ride in proper restraint systems. This is the
law, and you can be prosecuted for ignoring it.

Children 12 years and under should ride properly buck­led up in a rear seat, if available. According to crash
statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in
the rear seats, rather than in the front.

WARNING!

In a collision, an unrestrained child, even a tiny
baby, can become a missile inside the vehicle. The
force required to hold even an infant on your lap
could become so great that you could not hold the
child, no matter how strong you are. The child and
others could be badly injured. Any child riding in
your vehicle should be in a proper restraint for the
child’s size.

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50 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Infants And Small Children

There are different sizes and types of restraints for
children from newborn size to the child almost large
enough for an adult safety belt. Always check the child
seat owner’s manual to ensure you have the correct seat
for your child. Use the restraint that is correct for your
child:

•

Safety experts recommend that children ride
rearward-facing in the vehicle until they are at least
one year old and weigh at least 20 lbs (9 kg). Two types
of child restraints can be used rearward-facing: infant
carriers and ⬙convertible⬙ child seats. Both types of
child restraints are held in the vehicle by the lap/
shoulder belt or the LATCH child restraint anchorage
system.

•

The infant carrier is only used rearward-facing in the
vehicle. It is recommended for children who weigh up
to about 20 lbs (9 kg). ⬙Convertible⬙ child seats can be

used either rearward-facing or forward-facing in the
vehicle. Convertible child seats often have a higher
weight limit in the rearward-facing direction than
infant carriers do, so they can be used rearward-facing
by children who weigh more than 9 kg (20 lbs) but are
less than one year old.

•

Rearward-facing child seats must NEVER be used in
the front seat of a vehicle with a front passenger
airbag. An airbag deployment could cause severe
injury or death to infants in this position.

•

Children who weigh more than 20 lbs (9 kg) and who
are older than one year can ride forward-facing in the
vehicle. Forward-facing child seats and convertible
child seats used in the forward-facing direction are for
children who weigh 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg) and who
are older than one year. These child seats are also held
in the vehicle by the lap/shoulder belt or the LATCH
child restraint anchorage system.

•

The belt-positioning booster seat is for children weigh­ing more than 40 lbs (18 kg), but who are still too small
to fit the vehicle’s seat belts properly. If the child
cannot sit with knees bent over the vehicle’s cushion
while the child’s back is against the seat back; they
should use a Belt Positioning Booster Seat. The child
and booster seat are held in the vehicle by the lap/
shoulder belt. (Some booster seats are equipped with a
front shield and are held in the vehicle by the lap
portion.)

NOTE: For additional information refer to www.nhtsa­.dot.gov or www.seatcheck.org.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 51

WARNING!

•

Improper installation can lead to failure of an
infant or child restraint. It could come loose in a
collision. The child could be badly injured or
killed. Follow the manufacturer’s directions ex­actly when installing an infant or child restraint.

•

A rearward facing child restraint should only be
used in a rear seat. A rearward facing child re­straint in the front seat may be struck by a
deploying passenger airbag which may cause se­vere or fatal injury to the infant.

Here are some tips on getting the most out of your child
restraint:

•

Before buying any restraint system, make sure that it
has a label certifying that it meets all applicable Safety
Standards. We also recommend that you make sure

2

52 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

that you can install the child restraint in the vehicle
where you will use it, before you buy it.

•

The restraint must be appropriate for your child’s
weight and height. Check the label on the restraint for
weight and height limits.

•

Carefully follow the instructions that come with the
restraint. If you install the restraint improperly, it may
not work when you need it.

The passenger seat belts are equipped with switchable
seat belt retractors, which are designed to keep the lap
portion tight around the child restraint so that it is not
necessary to use a locking clip.

Pull the belt from the retractor until there is enough to
allow you to pass through the child restraint and slide the
latch plate into the buckle. Then pull on the belt until it is
all removed from the retractor. Allow the belt to return
into the retractor, as the belt retracts, you will hear a

clicking sound. This indicates that the seat belt is now in
the automatic locking mode. Pull on the excess webbing
to tighten the lap portion about the child restraint. Follow
the instructions of the child restraint manufacture.

NOTE: To reset this feature you must let all of the belt
webbing return into the retractor. You will not be able to
pull out more webbing until all of the webbing has been
returned back into the retractor.

•

In the rear seat, you may have trouble tightening the
lap/shoulder belt on the child restraint because the
buckle or latch plate is too close to the belt path
opening on the restraint. Disconnect the latch plate
from the buckle and twist the short buckle end of the
belt several times to shorten it. Insert the latch plate
into the buckle with the release button facing out.

•

If the belt still can’t be tightened, or if by pulling and
pushing on the restraint loosens the belt, disconnect
the latch plate from the buckle, turn the buckle

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 53

around, and insert the latch plate into the buckle
again. If you still can’t make the child restraint secure,
try a different seating position.

•

Buckle the child into the seat according to the child
restraint manufacturer’s directions.

•

When your child restraint is not in use, secure it in the
vehicle with the seat belt or remove it from the vehicle.
Don’t leave it loose in the vehicle. In a sudden stop or
collision, it could strike the occupants or seat backs
and cause serious personal injury.

Lower Anchors and Tether for CHildren (LATCH)

Your vehicle is equipped with the child restraint anchor­age system called LATCH, which stands for Lower
Anchors and Tether for CHildren. The LATCH system
provides for the installation of the child restraint without
using the vehicle seat belt. Both rear seating positions
have exclusive lower anchorages located at the rear of the
seat cushion. They are round bars, part of the seat and

body structure, and are readily visible. In addition, there
are two tether strap anchorages located behind the rear
seat head form, in the convertible top storage area.

2

Latch Anchors

Child restraints systems having attachments designed to
connect to the lower anchorages are now available. Child
restraints having tether straps and hooks for connection

54 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

to the top tether anchorage have been available for some
time. In fact, many child restraint manufacturers will
provide add-on tether strap kits for some of their older
products. Tether anchorage kits are also available for
most older vehicles.

Because the lower anchorages are to be introduced to
passenger carrying vehicles over a period of years, child
restraint systems having attachments for those anchor­ages will continue to have features for installation in
vehicles using the lap or lap/shoulder belt. They will also
have tether straps, and you are urged to take advantage
of all of the available attachments provided with your
child restraint in any vehicle.

Installing the Child Restraint System

We urge that you carefully follow the directions of the
manufacturer when installing your child restraint. Many,
but not all, restraint systems will be equipped with
separate straps on each side, with each having a hook or

connector and a means for adjusting the tension in the
strap. Forward-facing toddler restraints and some
rearward-facing infant restraints will also be equipped
with a tether strap with a hook and means for adjusting
the tension in the strap.

In general, you will first loosen the adjusters on the lower
and tether straps so that you can more easily attach the
hook or connector to the lower and tether anchorages.
The tether strap should be routed over the center of the
head form and attached to the tether anchor, located
behind the rear seat head form, in the convertible top
storage area. Then tighten all three straps as you push the
child restraint rearward and downward into the seat.

NOTE: To gain access to the achorages, locate the child
tether anchorage decals on the carpet behind the rear seat
head forms and use a small screwdriver to pry the carpet
flap open. The carpet flap is attached in two different
places.

Tether Strap Mounting

Not all child restraint systems will be installed as we
have described here. Again, carefully follow the instruc­tions that come with the child restraint system.

NOTE: If your child restraint seat is not LATCH com­patible, install the restraint using the vehicle seat belts.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 55

WARNING!

An incorrectly anchored tether strap could lead to
increased head motion and possible injury to the
child. Use only the anchor position directly behind
the child seat to secure a child restraint top tether
strap.

Children Too Large For Booster Seats

Children who are large enough to wear the shoulder belt
comfortably, and whose legs are long enough to bend
over the front of the seat when their back is against the
seat back, should use the lap/shoulder belt in a rear seat.

•

Make sure that the child is upright in the seat.

•

The lap portion should be low on the hips and as snug
as possible.

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56 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

•

Check belt fit periodically. A child’s squirming or
slouching can move the belt out of position.

•

If the shoulder belt contacts the face or neck, move the
child closer to the center of the vehicle. Never allow a
child to put the shoulder belt under an arm or behind
their back.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

A long break-in period is not required for the engine in
your new vehicle.

Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or 55
mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.

Transporting Pets

Airbags deploying in the front seat could harm your pet.
An unrestrained pet will be thrown about and possibly
injured, or injure a passenger during panic braking or in
a collision.

Pets should be restrained in the rear seat in pet harnesses
or pet carriers that are secured by seat belts.

While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration, within the
limits of local traffic laws, contributes to a good break-in.
Wide open throttle acceleration in low gear can be
detrimental and should be avoided.

The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil
changes should be consistent with anticipated climate
conditions under which vehicle operations will occur.
The recommended viscosity and quality grades are
shown in Section 7 of this manual. NON-DETERGENT
OR STRAIGHT MINERAL OILS MUST NEVER BE
USED.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE 57

A new engine may consume some oil during its first few
thousand miles (kilometers) of operation. This should be
considered as a normal part of the break-in and not
interpreted as an indication of difficulty.

SAFETY TIPS

Exhaust Gas

WARNING!

Exhaust gases can injure or kill. They contain carbon
monoxide (CO) which is colorless and odorless.
Breathing it can make you unconscious and can
eventually poison you. To avoid breathing (CO)
follow the safety tips below.

Do not run the engine in a closed garage or in confined
areas any longer than needed to move your vehicle in or
out of the area.

If it is necessary to sit in a parked vehicle with the engine
running, adjust your heating or cooling controls to force
outside air into the vehicle. Set the blower at high speed.

2

WARNING!

If you are required to drive with the deck lid/liftgate
open, make sure that all windows are closed, and the
climate control blower switch is set at high speed.
DO NOT use the recirculation mode.

Safety Checks You Should Make Inside The
Vehicle

Seat Belts

Inspect the belt system periodically, checking for cuts,
frays and loose parts. Damaged parts must be replaced
immediately. Do not disassemble or modify the system.

58 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE STARTING YOUR VEHICLE

Front seat belt assemblies must be replaced after a
collision. Rear seat belt assemblies must be replaced after
a collision if they have been damaged (bent retractor, torn
webbing, etc. If there is any question regarding belt or
retractor condition, replace the belt.

Airbag Light

The light should come on and remain on for 6 to 8
seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first
turned ON. If the LED is not lit during starting, have it
checked. If the light stays on or comes on while driving,
have the system checked by an authorized dealer.

Defroster

Check operation by selecting the defrost mode and place
the blower control on high speed. You should be able to
feel the air directed against the windshield.

Periodic Safety Checks You Should Make Outside
The Vehicle

Tires

Examine tires for excessive tread wear or uneven wear
patterns. Check for stones, nails, glass, or other objects
lodged in the tread. Inspect tread and sidewall for cuts or
cracks. Check wheel nuts for tightness, and tires (includ­ing spare) for proper pressure.

Lights

Have someone observe the operation of exterior lights
while you work the controls. Check turn signal and high
beam indicator lights on the instrument panel.

Fluid Leaks

Check area under vehicle after overnight parking for fuel,
engine coolant, oil or other fluid leaks. Also, if gasoline
fumes are detected or fuel, power steering fluid or brake
fluid leaks are suspected, the cause should be located and
corrected immediately.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CONTENTS

䡵 Convertible Top Operation .................62

▫ Outside Mirror—Driver’s Side .............78

3

▫ To Lower The Top ......................62

▫ To Raise The Top ......................66

▫ Convertible Top Boot Cover Installation–If

Equipped ............................68

▫ Convertible Top Boot Cover Removal And

Storage .............................72

▫ Convertible Top Manual Override ..........73

䡵 Mirrors ...............................75

▫ Inside Compass/Temperature Mirror ........75

▫ Outside Mirror—Passenger’s Side ...........78

▫ Electric Remote-Control Mirrors ............79

▫ Illuminated Vanity Mirrors ................80

䡵 Seats .................................80

▫ Front Seat Adjustment ...................80

▫ Driver’s Power Seat Height Adjuster — If

Equipped ............................81

▫ Reclining Bucket Seats ...................82

60 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

▫ Driver’s Seat Back Tilt ...................82

▫ Passenger Seat Back Tilt (Easy Entry System) . . .83

▫ Adjustable Head Restraints ...............85

▫ Heated Seats — If Equipped ..............86

▫ Folding Rear Seat ......................87

▫ Tumbling Rear Seat .....................88

䡵 To Open And Close The Hood ..............93

䡵 Lights ................................94

▫ Interior Lights ........................94

▫ Multi-Function Control Lever ..............95

▫ Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument Panel

Lights ..............................96

▫ Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) ......96

▫ Lights-On Reminder ....................96

▫ Fog Lights ...........................97

▫ Turn Signals ..........................97

▫ Highbeam/Lowbeam Select Switch ..........97

▫ Passing Light .........................97

䡵 Windshield Wipers And Washers ............98

▫ Windshield Washers ....................98

▫ Mist Feature ..........................98

▫ Windshield Wiper Operation ..............99

▫ Intermittent Wiper System ................99

▫ Adding Washer Fluid ..................100

䡵 Tilt Steering Column ....................101

䡵 Traction Control Switch — If Equipped .......102

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 61

䡵 Electronic Speed Control ..................103

▫ To Activate ..........................103

▫ To Set At A Desired Speed ...............104

▫ To Deactivate ........................104

▫ To Resume Speed .....................104

▫ To Vary The Speed Setting ...............104

▫ Manual Transaxle .....................105

▫ To Accelerate For Passing ...............105

䡵 Garage Door Opener — If Equipped .........106

▫ Programming The Universal Transceiver .....107

▫ “Rolling Code” Programming ............109

▫ Canadian Programming/Gate Programming . . 110

▫ Operation ...........................111

▫ Reprogramming A Single Button ..........111

▫ Security ............................111

䡵 Electrical Power Outlets ..................112

▫ Electrical Outlet Use With Engine Off .......114

䡵 Console Features .......................115

䡵 Storage ..............................116

▫ Front Seat Storage Bin ..................116

▫ Storage Pockets .......................117

3

62 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

CONVERTIBLE TOP OPERATION

WARNING!

The convertible top does not provide the structural
protection that a reinforced metal roof does, and the
fabric top cannot be expected to prevent the ejection
of the occupants of a vehicle in a collision. Therefore
it is important that all occupants wear their seat belts
at all times when riding in a convertible. Studies
have shown that it is generally safer to remain inside
a vehicle during a collision, than to be ejected from
the vehicle.

To Lower The Top:

NOTE: Thoroughly dry the convertible top and top
storage area, prior to leaving the top lowered for an
extended period of time. This will help prevent possible
mildew build-up.

CAUTION!

To avoid damage to the convertible top or its com­ponents, your vehicle is equipped with a feature that
prevents convertible top operation at speeds over 10
mph (16 km/h).

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 63

CAUTION!

To fully insure that no damage occurs, be sure that
the vehicle is at a complete stop with the gear
selector in the Park position (automatic transaxle) or
in the Neutral position (manual transaxle) before
lowering or raising the top.

CAUTION!

Do not operate the convertible top with ice or snow
build-up on the top. Damage to the top may occur.

CAUTION!

To avoid damage to either the top or the rear win­dow, check the top storage area at the rear of the
vehicle interior to be sure that it is clear of debris or
other items. Be sure that child seat flip up bars are
lowered. Do not use the top storage area for other
storage purposes.

3

64 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

1. Turn the ignition key to the ON position.

2. Release the top from the windshield header by pulling
down on the latch handle and turning the latch handle
clockwise until it stops.

Releasing Convertible Top Latches

3. Press the Power Top Switch to disengage the top pins
from the header, turn the handle counterclockwise and
raise the handle to the stowed position.

NOTE: The Power Top Switch has two detent positions
for lowering the convertible top. Pressing and holding
the Power Top Switch lightly in the first detent position
will lower the windows slightly and the convertible top
to the full down position. Pressing and holding the
switch in the second detent position will lower all four
windows completely and the top to the full down posi­tion.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 65

5. Install the Convertible Top Boot Cover, if equipped.
Refer to Convertible Top Boot Cover Installation–If
Equipped, in this section.

Convertible Top Switch

4. Continue pressing the Power Top Switch until the
convertible top is lowered completely.

CAUTION!

Damage to the convertible top boot cover could
result if the latch handle is not completely closed
when the top is lowered. The convertible top boot
cover cannot be installed while the latch handle is
open.

3

66 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

To Raise The Top:

CAUTION!

To avoid damage to the convertible top or its com­ponents, your vehicle is equipped with a feature that
prevents convertible top operation at speeds over 10
mph (16 km/h).

CAUTION!

To fully insure that no damage occurs, be sure that
the vehicle is at a complete stop with the gear
selector in the Park position (automatic transaxle) or
in the Neutral position (manual transaxle) before
lowering or raising the top.

1. Remove the convertible top boot cover, if equipped.
Refer to Convertible Top Boot Cover Removal and Stor­age, in this section.

2. Turn the ignition to the ON position.

3. Press the Power Top Switch to raise the top. Before the
top reaches the windshield, open the latch handle and
turn the handle clockwise to open the latches. Press the
switch again to continue raising the top until the two pins
seat themselves in the windshield header.

NOTE: If the top is not latched right away, it may be
necessary to press the power top switch, “UP” or
“DOWN” quickly, to align the pins to the windshield
header.

4. Pull down on the latch handle and rotate it counter­clockwise to engage the latches.

Engaging Convertible Top Latches

5. Raise the latch handle into the stowed position.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 67

CAUTION!

Car top carriers, ski racks, etc., should not be at­tached to the convertible top mechanism as they will
damage the top. Do not place objects on the convert­ible top, in the top well or on the sport bar. Damage
to the convertible top may occur.

3

68 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Convertible Top Boot Cover Installation–If
Equipped

1. With the top down and the convertible top latch
handle in the stowed position, lay the unfolded boot
cover across the convertible top.

Convertible Top Latch Handle

Boot Laying Across Convertible Top

2. Install the rear edge of the boot, first tucking the rear
edge of the boot under the rear and both sides of the rails.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 69

3

Tucking Boot Under Rail

70 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

3. Pull the right and left boot arms forward and engage
both boot arm snaps. Make sure both snaps are fully
engaged.

Engaging Boot Arm Snaps

4. Engage the boot center section retainer using the tabs
provided.

Engaging Boot Center Section

5. Tuck the rear flap of the boot in behind the Upper
Moulding.

Tucking In Rear Flap

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 71

3

72 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Convertible Top Boot Cover Removal and
Storage

1. Unsnap the snaps and remove the top cover boot.

2. Lay the boot cover flat with the center section retainer
facing the rear of the car.

Boot Removed And Laying Flat

3. First fold the left side of the boot cover to the middle
of the boot cover.

Folding Boot Cover Left Side

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 73

4. Second fold the right side of the boot cover to the
middle, fitting it inside the left side of the boot cover and
store it in the trunk or a dry secure area.

Folding Boot Cover Right Side

CAUTION!

Do not lay heavy objects on top of the boot or lay the
boot on top of sharp/pointy objects. Damage could
occur to the boot.

3

CONVERTIBLE TOP MANUAL OVERRIDE

If your vehicle is experiencing electrical failure (low
battery, etc.) and it is necessary to raise the convertible
top, perform the following steps:

1. Locate the convertible top motor bleeder screw, which
is found in the trunk under the convertible top storage
area.

74 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

2. Turn the screw counterclockwise until the screw stops.
This will relieve the hydraulic pressure and allow the
convertible top to be raised manually.

Bleeder Screw

3. Using the latch handle raise the top until the two pins
seat themselves in the windshield header.

4. Rotate the latch handle clockwise to open the latches.

5. Pull down and rotate the handle counterclockwise to
engage the latches.

Engaging Convertible Top Latches

6. Raise the handle into the stowed position.

7. Close the convertible top motor bleeder screw by
turning the screw clockwise until it stops.

MIRRORS

Inside Compass/Temperature Mirror

This manual day-night inside rearview mirror has an
integrated compass and outside temperature display,
along with dual map/courtesy lamps with switches for
independent operation. These lamps also turn on to­gether with the dome lamp.

Adjust the mirror to center the view through the rear
window. A two point pivot system allows for horizontal
and vertical mirror adjustments.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 75

3

Annoying headlight glare can be reduced by rotating the
small knob under the mirror in the clockwise direction,
so the knob points to the right (night position). The
mirror should be adjusted while set in the day position
(knob points towards rear of vehicle.)

Adjusting Rear View Mirror

76 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Lights

Briefly press the “Right” button to toggle the right

•

reading lamp “ON/OFF”. Repeat the key press to
cycle the light.

•

Briefly press the “Left” button to toggle the left
reading lamp “ON/OFF”. Repeat the key press to
cycle the light.

NOTE: The light can be activated with the ignition off.

NOTE: The light(s) will automatically shut off after

seven minutes with ignition off.

Temperature

Press and hold the “Right” button for 5–10 seconds (until
°F/°C toggles in the display) then release the button.
Repeat the key press to cycle the °F/°C in the display.

Display ON/OFF

Press and hold the “Right” button for 10–15 seconds
(until display toggles ON/OFF) then release the button.
Repeat the key press to cycle the display ON/OFF.

NOTE: The display will default “ON” at each new
ignition cycle.

Compass Variance

Find your current location and determine the correct

•

Zone number from the map.

•

Press and hold the “Left” button for 5–10 seconds
(until “Zone” appears in the display), then release the
button. The number displayed is the current Zone
value.

•

If a new Zone value is desired, briefly press the “Left”
button to increment the displayed value, (Range 1–15)
until you find your desired Zone number.

•

No button activity for 4–5 seconds ends the Zone entry
mode. The display will return to normal operation and
the new Zone number will be set.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 77

3

78 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Compass Calibration

If “CAL” is not displayed, press and hold the “Left”
button for 10–15 seconds, until “CAL” appears in the
display, then release the button. The compass is now in
calibration mode.

The mirror can be calibrated in one of two ways

Drive the vehicle in circles at less then 5mph (8 km/h)

•

until “CAL” no longer appears in the display.

•

Drive the vehicle under normal operating conditions.

Outside Mirror—Driver’s Side

Adjust the outside mirror to center on the adjacent lane of
traffic, with a slight overlap of the view obtained on the
inside mirror.

Outside Mirror—Passenger’s Side

Adjust the convex outside mirror so you can just see the
side of your vehicle in the part of the mirror closest to the
vehicle.

WARNING!

Vehicles and other objects seen in the passenger side
convex mirror will look smaller and farther away
than they really are. Relying too much on your
passenger side mirror could cause you to collide
with another vehicle or other object. Use your inside
mirror when judging the size or distance of a vehicle
seen in this convex mirror.

Electric Remote-Control Mirrors

Use the mirror select switch, located to the left of the
steering column on the instrument panel, to adjust the
view obtained in the outside mirrors. Press the L or R
button for Left or Right mirror selection. Use the center
off position to guard against accidentally moving a
mirror position.

Select a mirror and press one of the four arrows for the
direction you want the mirror to move.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 79

3

Power Mirror Switches

80 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Illuminated Vanity Mirrors

An illuminated vanity mirror is on the sun visor. To use
the mirror, rotate the sun visor down and swing the
mirror cover upward. The lights turn on automatically.
Closing the mirror cover turns off the lights.

Illuminated Vanity Mirror

SEATS

Front Seat Adjustment

The adjusting bar is at the front of the seats, near the
floor. Pull the bar up to move the seat to the desired
position.

Manual Front Seat Adjuster

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 81

Using body pressure, move forward and rearward on the
seat to be sure the seat adjusters have latched.

WARNING!

•

Adjusting a seat while the vehicle is moving is
dangerous. The sudden movement of the seat
could cause you to lose control. The seat belt
might not be properly adjusted and you could be
injured. Adjust the seat only while the vehicle is
parked.

•

Do not ride with the seatback reclined so that the
shoulder belt is no longer resting against your
chest. In a collision you could slide under the seat
belt and be seriously or even fatally injured. Use
the recliner only when the vehicle is parked.

Driver’s Power Seat Height Adjuster — If
Equipped

The power seat height adjuster is on the outboard side of
the driver’s seat. Use this switch to move the seat up or
down.

3

Driver’s Power Seat Height Adjuster

82 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Reclining Bucket Seats

The recliner control is on the outboard side of the seat. To
recline, lean forward slightly before lifting the lever, then
lean back to the desired position and release the lever.
Lean forward and lift the lever to return the seatback to
its normal position.

Recliner Control Lever

Driver’s Seat Back Tilt

How to operate the driver’s seat:

1. Rotate front seat handle rearward until seat back
releases.

2. While holding the handle, push seat back forward,
then let go of the handle. Continue pushing the seat back
forward.

3. To return seat to a sitting position, push seat back
rearward.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 83

NOTE: The driver’s front seat has a full recliner
memory, which will allow the seat back to return to its
original position.

Driver’s Seat Back Tilt Handle

Passenger Seat Back Tilt (Easy Entry System)

How to operate the passenger front seat:

1. Rotate front seat handle rearward until seat back
releases.

2. While holding the handle, push seat back forward,
then let go of the handle.

3

84 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Passenger Seat Back Tilt Handle

3. Continue pushing the entire seat forward until it slides
toward the dashboard.

4. To return seat to a sitting position, rotate seat back
upright until it locks.

5. Push seat rearward until the track locks.

NOTE: The passenger front seat has a full recliner
memory, which will allow the seat back to returned to its
original position.

NOTE: The passenger front seat has a mid-track
memory, which returns the seat to the middle off the
track regardless of original position.

Adjustable Head Restraints

Head restraints can reduce the risk of whiplash injury in
the event of impact from the rear. Pull up or push down
on the head restraints so that the upper edge is as high as
practical. To raise the head restraint, pull up on the head
restraint. To lower the head restraint, depress the button
and push down on the head restraint.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 85

3

Adjustable Head Restraints

86 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Heated Seats — If Equipped

This feature heats the front driver’s and passenger’s
seats. The control for the heater is located on the out­board side of each seat. After turning on the ignition, you
may choose from HIGH, or LOW heat settings. An
indicator on the switch shows which setting has been
chosen.

Heated Seat Switch

Press the switch once to select a heat setting (high or low)
and press the switch a second time in the same direction
to turn the heated seat off.

NOTE: Once a heat setting is selected, heat will be felt
within 2 to 3 minutes.

Folding Rear Seat

To provide additional storage area, each rear seatback can
be folded forward. The seat back release knobs are
located in the trunk area. Pull the left side seatback
release knob to fold down the left side seatback. Pull the
right side seatback release knob to fold down the right
side seatback.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 87

3

Folding Rear Seat Release Knobs

88 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

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 seat
belts.

•

Be sure that everyone in your vehicle is in a seat
and using a seat belt properly.

NOTE: Prior to lifting either seatback to the upright

position, be sure that the seat belt is brought forward to
avoid trapping it behind the seatback.

Tumbling Rear Seat

To provide additional storage area, each rear seat can be
tumbled forward.

CAUTION!

It is important that the front seats be pulled forward
to the midpoint of the seat track to avoid contact
between the rear seat and the front seatback. If the
front seat is not pulled forward the two seats will
make contact during the tumbling motion and cause
damage to the rear seat material. After the rear seat is
tumbled forward and secured the front seat can then
be repositioned to the preferred position.

To tumble the seat forward use the following procedure:

1. The seat back release knobs are located in the trunk
area. Pull the left side seatback release knob to fold down
the left side seatback. Pull the right side seatback release
knob to fold down the right side seatback.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 89

3

Folding Rear Seat Release Knobs

90 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

2. From inside the vehicle, fold the rear seat back down
flat.

Folding Rear Seat Back Tumbling Rear Seat

3. Pull the release handle located at the bottom of the
folded seat back and tumble the seat forward.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 91

4. Attach the cinching tether strap, located at the side of
the seat cushion, onto the hook bar on the center trim
panel and tighten by pulling the cinching strap until the
seat is secure.

Cinching Tether Strap

To return the tumbling rear seat to the latched (normal)
position use the following procedure:

1. Loosen the strap by pushing rearward on the cinching
tether strap buckle.

3

Releasing Cinching Tether Strap

2. Disconnect the cinching tether strap.

NOTE: The strap should be reinstalled in the side
pocket on the seat cushion before returning the seat to the
latched (normal) position.

92 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

NOTE: Prior to rotating the seat cushions reward, be
sure that the rear seat belt buckles are secured with the
straps, so that the buckles are accessible.

Rear Seat Belt Buckle Straps

NOTE: Prior to lifting either seatback to the upright

position, be sure that the seat belt is brought forward to
avoid trapping it behind the seatback.

3. Rotate the seat cushion rearward to latch the seat.
Then lift the seatback to its upright latched position.

WARNING!

In an accident, you or others in your vehicle could be
injured if seats are not properly latched to their
attachments. Always be sure the seats are fully
latched.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 93

TO OPEN AND CLOSE THE HOOD

To open the hood, two latches must be released. First pull
the hood release lever located under the left side of the
instrument panel.

Hood Release Lever

Then move the safety catch located under the front edge
of the hood, near the center and slightly to the right, and
raise the hood.

Use the hood prop rod clipped to the driver’s side of the
engine compartment to secure the hood in the open
position. Place the hood prop at the location stamped into
the inner hood surface.

To prevent possible damage, do not slam the hood to
close it. Lower the hood until it is open approximately 20
cm (8 inches) and then drop it. This should secure both
latches. Never drive your vehicle unless the hood is fully
closed, with both latches engaged.

3

94 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

WARNING!

If the hood is not fully latched it could fly up when
the vehicle is moving and block your forward vision.
You could have a collision. Be sure all hood latches
are fully latched before driving.

LIGHTS

Interior Lights

The interior lights come on when a door or the deck lid
is opened.

With the ignition key in the OFF position, the interior
lights will automatically turn off in about 8 minutes if a
door is left open or the dimmer control is left in the Dome
light position. Turn the ignition switch ON to restore the
interior light operation.

Dimmer Control

With the parking lights or headlights
on, rotating the dimmer control for the
interior lights on the Multi-Function
Control Lever upward will increase
the brightness of the instrument panel
lights.

Dome Light Position

Rotate the dimmer control completely
upward to the second detent to turn
on the interior lights. The interior
lights will remain on when the dim­mer control is in this position. With the
ignition key in the OFF position, the
interior lights will automatically turn
off in about 8 minutes if the dimmer
control is left in the Dome light posi-

tion.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 95

Interior light Defeat (OFF)

Rotate the dimmer control to the ex­treme bottom “OFF” position. The in­terior lights will remain off when the
doors are open.

Parade Mode (Daytime Brightness Feature)

Rotate the dimmer control to the first
detent (white semi-circle). This feature
brightens the odometer and radio dis­play when the parking lights or head­lights are on during daylight condi­tions.

Multi-Function Control Lever

The Multi-Function Control Lever controls the operation
of the headlights, parking lights, turn signals, headlight
beam selection, instrument panel light dimming, interior
lights, the passing lights, and fog lights. The lever is
located on the left side of the steering column.

3

96 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Headlights, Parking Lights, Instrument Panel
Lights

Turn the end of the Multi-Function Control Lever to the
first detent for parking light operation. Turn to the
second detent for headlight operation.

Multi-Function Control Lever

To change the brightness of the instrument panel lights,
rotate the center portion of the Multi-Function Control
Lever up or down.

Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only)

The front turn signal lights will come on as Daytime
Running Lights whenever the ignition switch is on, the
headlights are off, and the parking brake is off. The
headlight switch must be used for normal night time
driving.

Lights-on Reminder

If the headlights or parking lights are on after the ignition
is turned OFF, a chime will sound to alert the driver
when the driver’s door is opened.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 97

Fog Lights

The front fog light switch is on the Multi-Function
Control Lever. To activate the front fog lights, turn
on the parking lights or the low beam headlights

and pull out the end of the control lever.

NOTE: The fog lights will only operate with the head­lights on low beam. Selecting high beam headlights will
turn off the fog lights.

Turn Signals

Move the Multi-Function Control Lever up or down and
the arrows on each side of the instrument cluster flash to
show proper operation of the front and rear turn signal
lights. You can signal a lane change by moving the lever
partially up or down without moving beyond the detent.

If either light remains on and does not flash, or there is a
very fast flash rate, check for a defective outside light
bulb. If an indicator fails to light when the lever is
moved, it would suggest that the fuse or indicator bulb is
defective.

Highbeam/Lowbeam Select Switch

Pull the Multi-Function Control Lever towards you to
switch the headlights to HIGH beam. Pull the control
lever a second time to switch the headlights to LOW
beam.

Passing Light

You can signal another vehicle with your headlights by
lightly pulling the Multi-Function Control Lever toward
you. This will cause the headlights to turn on at high
beam and remain on until the lever is released.

3

98 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

WINDSHIELD WIPERS AND WASHERS

The wipers and washers are operated by a switch
on the control lever. The lever is located on the
right side of the steering column. Move the con-

trol lever up to select the desired wiper speed.

Windshield Wiper/Washer Control

Windshield Washers

To use the washer, pull the control lever toward you and
hold while spray is desired. If the lever is pulled while in
the delay range, the wiper will operate in low speed for
two wipe cycles after the lever is released, and then
resume the intermittent interval previously selected.

If the lever is pulled while in the OFF position, the wipers
will operate for two wipe cycles, then turn OFF.

Mist Feature

Push down on the wiper control lever to activate a single
wipe to clear the windshield of road mist or spray from
a passing vehicle. As long as the lever is held down, the
wipers will continue to operate.

UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE 99

CAUTION!

In cold weather, always turn off the wiper switch
and allow the wipers to return to the park position
before turning off the engine. If the wiper switch is
left on and the wipers freeze to the windshield,
damage to the wiper motor may occur when the
vehicle is restarted.

Windshield Wiper Operation

Move the lever upward to the second detent for Low
speed wiper operation, or to the third detent for High
speed operation.

Intermittent Wiper System

Use the intermittent wiper when weather conditions
make a single wiping cycle, with a variable pause be­tween cycles, desirable. Move the lever to the DEL
position, then select the delay interval by turning the end
of the lever. Rotate the knob upward (clockwise) to
decrease the delay time and downward (counterclock­wise) to increase the delay time. The delay can be
regulated from a maximum of approximately 18 seconds
between cycles, to a cycle every second.

3

100 UNDERSTANDING THE FEATURES OF YOUR VEHICLE

Adding Washer Fluid

The fluid reservoir is located in the rear of the engine
compartment on the passenger side and should be
checked for fluid level at regular intervals. Fill the
reservoir with windshield washer solvent (not radiator
antifreeze) and operate the system for a few seconds to
flush out the residual water.

Washer Fluid Reservoir