Oldsmobile 1999 Aurora Owner's Manual

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The 1999 Oldsmobile Aurora Owner’s Manual

1-1 Seats and Restraint Systems

This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system.

2-1 Features and Controls

This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle.

3-1 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

4-1 Your Driving and the Road

Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

5-1 Problems on the Road

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

6-1 Service and Appearance Care

Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good.

7-1 Maintenance Schedule

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

8-1 Customer Assistance Information

This section tells you how to contact Oldsmobile for assistance and how to get service and owner publications.
It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8

-10.

9-1 Index

Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find
something you want to read.

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GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
OLDSMOBILE, the OLDSMOBILE Rocket Emblem
and the AURORA Emblem are registered trademarks of
General Motors Corporation. “AURORA” is used with
permission of Hankook Tire.

This manual includes the latest information at the time it
was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the
product after that time without further notice. For
vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name
“General Motors of Canada Limited” for Oldsmobile
Division whenever it appears in this manual.

Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be
there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you
sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new
owner can use it.

We support voluntary
technician certification.

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a
French Language Manual:

Aux propriétaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous

procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en français chez
votre concessionaire ou au:

DGN Marketing Services Ltd.
1577 Meyerside Dr.
Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1B9

Litho in U.S.A.

E

Copyright General Motors Corporation 1998

Part No. 22600384 A First Edition All Rights Reserved

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How to Use this Manual

Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning
to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you
do this, it will help you learn about the features and
controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find
that pictures and words work together to explain
things quickly .

Index

A good place to look for what you need is the Index in
back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’s in
the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it.

Safety Warnings and Symbols

You will find a number of safety cautions in this book.
We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you
about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore
the warning.

CAUTION:

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

In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then
we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the
hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or
others could be hurt.

You will also find a circle
with a slash through it in
this book. This safety
symbol means “Don’t,”
“Don’t do this” or “Don’t
let this happen.”

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Vehicle Damage Warnings

Also, in this book you will find these notices:

NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could
damage your vehicle.

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can
damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would
not be covered by your warranty , and it could be costly.
But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid
the damage.

When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION
and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in
different words.

You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use
the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

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For example,
these symbols
are used on an
original battery:

CAUTION

POSSIBLE

INJURY

PROTECT

EYES BY

SHIELDING

CAUSTIC

BATTERY

ACID COULD

CAUSE

BURNS

AVOID

SPARKS OR

FLAMES

SPARK OR

FLAME

COULD

EXPLODE

BATTER Y

These symbols
are important
for you and
your passengers
whenever your
vehicle is
driven:

DOOR LOCK

UNLOCK

FASTEN

SEAT

BELTS

POWER

WINDOW

AIR BAG

These symbols
have to do with
your lamps:

MASTER

LIGHTING

SWITCH

TURN

SIGNALS

PARKING

LAMPS

HAZARD
WARNING
FLASHER

DAYTIME

RUNNING

LAMPS

FOG LAMPS

These symbols
are on some of
your controls:

WINDSHIELD

WIPER

WINDSHIELD

WASHER

WINDSHIELD

DEFROSTER

REAR

WINDOW

DEFOGGER

VENTILATING

FAN

These symbols
are used on
warning and
indicator lights:

ENGINE

COOLANT

TEMP

BATTERY

CHARGING

SYSTEM

BRAKE

COOLANT

ENGINE OIL

PRESSURE

ANTI-LOCK

BRAKES

Here are some
other symbols
you may see:

FUSE

LIGHTER

HORN

SPEAKER

FUEL

Vehicle Symbols

These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.

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✍

NOTES

1-

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1-1

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly . You can also
learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.

1

-2 Seats and Seat Controls

1

-7 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

1

-12 Here Are Questions Many People Ask About

Safety Belts

-- and the Answers

1

-13 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

1

-13 Driver Position

1

-20 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

1

-21 Right Front Passenger Position

1

-21 Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

1

-27 Rear Seat Passengers

1

-30 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for

Children and Small Adults

1-32 Center Passenger Position
1

-34 Children

1

-37 Child Restraints

1

-48 Larger Children

1

-51 Safety Belt Extender

1

-51 Checking Your Restraint Systems

1

-52 Replacing Restraint System Parts After

a Crash

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1-2

Seats and Seat Controls

This part tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them,
and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints.

Power Seats

The power seat controls are located on the driver’s and
passenger’s door panels.

Horizontal Control (A): Raise the front of the seat by
raising the forward edge of the button. Lower the front
of the seat by lowering the forward edge of the button.
Move the seat forward by moving the whole button
toward the front of the vehicle.

Raise the rear of the seat by raising the rear edge of the
button. Lower the rear of the seat by lowering the rear
edge of the button. Move the seat rearward by moving
the whole button toward the rear of the vehicle.

Moving the whole button up or down raises or lowers
the whole seat.

Vertical Control (B): Move the reclining front seatback
rearward by moving the button toward the rear of the
vehicle. Move the seatback forward by moving the
button toward the front of the vehicle.

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Power Lumbar Control

The power lumbar controls are located on the driver’s
and passenger’s door panels.

The rear lumbar control adjusts upper lumbar support,
and the front control adjusts lower lumbar support.

Press the front of the switch to increase support. Press
the back of the switch to decrease support.

Memory Seat and Mirrors

The memory function
controls both the driver’s
seat cushion and outside
mirror positions. It does
not store the lumbar or
recline positions.

To set your memory seat cushion and mirrors:

1. Position the driver’s seat and both outside mirrors
where you want them. See “Mirrors” in the Index.

2. Press the SET button. You will hear one beep.

3. Within five seconds, press either the 1 or 2 button.
You will hear two beeps.

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The seat cushion and mirror positions will be stored for
the number pressed. Repeat the procedure to store
another position with the other number if desired. To
adjust the seat and mirrors to the stored position, press
the number corresponding to the position. The memory
function will only work with the gearshift in PARK (P).

To stop the automatic movement, move the seat switch
in any direction. For easier exiting, press the 1 and
2 buttons at the same time to move the seat completely
down and back.

Memory Seat and Mirror
Personalization Feature

The transmitters can also be programmed to move the
driver’s seat and outside mirrors to a set memory
position when the transmitter’s UNLOCK button
is pressed.

To program the system:

1. Adjust the driver’s seat to a comfortable position.
Adjust both outside mirrors to suit you.
See “Mirrors” in the Index.

2. Press the SET button on the driver’s door panel.
You will hear one beep.

3. Within five seconds, press one of the two memory
buttons on the door panel. You will hear two beeps to
confirm that the mirror and the seat cushion
positions are entered into memory .

4. Press the UNLOCK button on the appropriate
transmitter within five seconds. You will hear
two beeps.

The second transmitter can be programmed to record
a different seat and mirror position by following the
same steps.

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If you prefer to program the transmitter to the exit seat
position, which moves the seat completely down and
back, follow these steps:

1. Press the SET button on the driver’s door panel.
You will hear one beep.

2. Press one of the memory buttons on the driver’s door
panel. You will hear one beep, but the seat will not
move at this time.

3. Press the UNLOCK button on the appropriate
transmitter within five seconds. You will hear
two beeps.

This personalization feature will work only when the
vehicle is in PARK (P). A beep will sound inside the
vehicle when the UNLOCK button on the transmitter is
pressed to move the seat and mirrors.

To turn this feature off, press SET and then UNLOCK
within five seconds.

Heated Front Seat (Option)

This feature will quickly heat the lower cushions and
lower back of the driver and front passenger seats for
added comfort.

Press the button once to turn the heater on high. The HI
indicator light below the button will glow . Press it again
to turn the heater on low . The LO indicator light below
the button will glow. Press it a third time to turn the
heater off. The heater will turn off automatically when
the ignition is turned to OFF.

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Reclining Front Seatbacks

The vertical control described previously in this section
reclines the front seatbacks.

But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle
is moving.

CAUTION:

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

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

The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the
belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt
forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones.
This could cause serious internal injuries.

For proper protection when the vehicle is in
motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well
back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

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Head Restraints

Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the
restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position
reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

The head restraints tilt forward and rearward also.
There are four different positions. Just grasp the top of

the restraint and move it forward the way you want it to
go until you hear a click. It will then be locked into that
position until you need to move it again. Pulling it
forward past the last position will allow the headrest to
return to its full rear position.

Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts
properly. It also tells you some things you should not do
with safety belts.

And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS), or air bag system.

CAUTION:

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear
a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and
you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries
can be much worse. You can hit things inside the
vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously
injured or killed. In the same crash, you might
not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your
safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts
are fastened properly too.

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CAUTION:

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area,
inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision,
people riding in these areas are more likely to be
seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to
ride in any area of your vehicle that is not
equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure
everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a
safety belt properly.

Your vehicle has a light that
comes on as a reminder to
buckle up. (See “Safety
Belt Reminder Light” in
the Index.)

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to
wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.

You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a
crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.

A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so
serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive.
But most crashes are in between. In many of them,
people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk
away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt
or killed.

After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles,
the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does
matter ... a lot!

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Why Safety Belts Work

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

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

Put someone on it.

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

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

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

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

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Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts

-- and the Answers

Q:

W on’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an
accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

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

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

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

wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

most of them in the future. But they are
supplemental systems only; so they work with
safety belts

-- not instead of them. Every air bag

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

Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an

accident

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

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

Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km)
of home. And the greatest number of serious
injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than
40 mph (65 km/h).

Safety belts are for everyone.

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Adults

This part is only for people of adult size.
Be aware that there are special things to know about safety

belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller
children and babies. If a child will be riding in your
vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.”
Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.

First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your
vehicle has.

We’ll start with the driver position.

Driver Position

This part describes the driver’s restraint system.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. The shoulder portion of
the belt has an energy management loop. It is designed to
open and help protect you in certain crashes. If it opens,
you will see a label on the safety belt that says to replace
the belt. Be sure to do so. If you don’t, the safety belt
won’t work properly and won’t protect you in another
crash. For more information on replacing safety belts after
a crash, see “Replacing Safety Belts” in the Index.

Here’ s how to wear the lap

-shoulder belt properly .

1. Close and lock the door.

2. Adjust the seat (to see how , see “Seats” in the Index)
so you can sit up straight.

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

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

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

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

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on
the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies
force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less
likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the
belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could
cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt
should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
These parts of the body are best able to take belt
restraining forces.

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash.

Shoulder Belt Tightness Adjustment

Your car has a shoulder belt tightness adjustment
feature. If the shoulder belt seems too tight, adjust it
before you begin to drive.

1. Sit well back in the seat.

2. Start pulling the shoulder belt out.

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3. Just before it reaches the end, give it a quick pull.

4. Let the belt go back all the way . You should hear a
slight clicking sound. If you don’t, the adjustment
feature won’t set, and you’ll have to start again.

5. Now you can add a small amount of slack. Lean
forward slightly , then sit back. If you’ve added more
than 1 inch (25 mm) of slack, pull the shoulder belt
out as you did before and start again.

If you move around in the vehicle enough, or if you pull
out the shoulder belt, the belt will become tight again. If
this happens, you can reset it.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way .

CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is
too loose. In a crash, you would move forward
too much, which could increase injury. The
shoulder belt should fit against your body. Don’t
allow more than 1 inch (25 mm) of slack.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt is
buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash,
the belt would go up over your abdomen. The
belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic
bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.
Always buckle your belt into the buckle
nearest you.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if you wear the
shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your
body would move too far forward, which would
increase the chance of head and neck injury.
Also, the belt would apply too much force to the
ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones.
You could also severely injure internal organs
like your liver or spleen.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body .

CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In
a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the
belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted,
make it straight so it can work properly, or ask
your dealer to fix it.

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To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
The belt should go back out of the way .

Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the
way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the
belt and your vehicle.

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant
women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be
seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and
the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below
the rounding, throughout the pregnancy .

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

Right Front Passenger Position

To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt
properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section.

The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as
the driver’ s safety belt

-- except for one thing. If you ever pull

the lap portion of the belt out all the way, you will engage the
child restraint locking feature. If this happens, just let the belt
go back all the way and start again.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS) or air bag system.

Your vehicle has “Next Generation” frontal air
bags

-- one air bag for the driver and another air bag

for the right front passenger.
Next Generation frontal air bags are designed to help

reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating
air bag. But even these air bags must inflate very
quickly if they are to do their job and comply with
federal regulations.

Here are the most important things to know about the air
bag system:

CAUTION:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if
you aren’t wearing your safety belt

-- even if you

have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a
crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things
inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air
bags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety
belts. All air bags

-- even Next Generation air

bags

-- are designed to work with safety belts,

but don’t replace them. Air bags are designed to
work only in moderate to severe crashes where
the front of your vehicle hits something. They
aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear,
side or low

-speed frontal crashes. And, for

unrestrained occupants, Next Generation air
bags may provide less protection in frontal
crashes than more forceful air bags have
provided in the past. Everyone in your vehicle
should wear a safety belt properly

-- whether or

not there’s an air bag for that person.

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CAUTION:

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the
blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating
air bag, as you would be if you were leaning
forward, it could seriously injure you. This is true
even with Next Generation frontal air bags.
Safety belts help keep you in position before and
during a crash. Always wear your safety belt,
even with Next Generation air bags. The driver
should sit as far back as possible while still
maintaining control of the vehicle.

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any
air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or
killed. This is true even though your vehicle has
Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags plus
lap

-shoulder belts offer the best protection for

adults, but not for young children and infants.

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air
bag system is designed for them. Young children
and infants need the protection that a child
restraint system can provide. Always secure
children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see
the part of this manual called “Children” and see
the caution labels on the sunvisors and the right
front passenger’s safety belt.

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

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

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How the Air Bag System Works

Where are the air bags?

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

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

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CAUTION:

If something is between an occupant and an air
bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it
might force the object into that person. The path
of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t
put anything between an occupant and an air
bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the
steering wheel hub or on or near any other air
bag covering.

When should an air bag inflate?

An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe
frontal or near

-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if

the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold
level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t
move or deform, the threshold level is about 8 to 11 mph
(13 to 18 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however,
with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat
above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes
something that will move or deform, such as a parked car,
the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not
designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear
impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant.

In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air
bag should have inflated simply because of the damage
to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were.
Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and
how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or
near

-frontal impacts.

What makes an air bag inflate?

In an impact of sufficient severity , the air bag sensing system
detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system
triggers a release of gas from the inflator , which inflates the
air bag. The inflator , air bag and related hardware are all part
of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the
instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

How does an air bag restrain?

In moderate to severe frontal or near

-frontal collisions,

even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the
instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection
provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body,
stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would
not help you in many types of collisions, including
rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because
an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air
bags should never be regarded as anything more than a
supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to
severe frontal or near

-frontal collisions.

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What will you see after an air bag inflates?

After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly
that some people may not even realize the air bag
inflated. Some components of the air bag module

-- the

steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the
instrument panel for the right front passenger’s
bag

-- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag

that come into contact with you may be warm, but not
too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust
coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag
inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from
being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people
from leaving the vehicle.

CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air.
This dust could cause breathing problems for
people with a history of asthma or other
breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so.
If you have breathing problems but can’t get out
of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get
fresh air by opening a window or door.

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

D

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they
inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag
system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system
won’t be there to help protect you in another crash.
A new system will include air bag modules and
possibly other parts. The service manual for your
vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

D

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and
diagnostic module, which records information about
the air bag system. The module records information
about the readiness of the system, when the sensors
are activated and driver’s safety belt usage
at deployment.

D

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

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NOTICE:

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

If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water -- such as
water up to the carpeting or higher

-- or if water enters

your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller
can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then
you start your vehicle, the damage could make the air
bags inflate, even if there’s no crash. You would have to
replace the air bags as well as the sensors and related
parts. If your vehicle is ever in a flood, or if it’s exposed
to water that soaks the carpet, you can avoid needless
repair costs by turning off the vehicle immediately and
disconnecting the battery cables. Don’t let anyone start
the vehicle under any circumstances. See your dealer
for service.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the air bag system in several places
around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to
inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your
dealer and the Aurora Service Manual have information
about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To
purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner
Publications” in the Index.

CAUTION:

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

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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Rear Seat Passengers

It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up!
Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear
seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are
wearing safety belts.

Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown
out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others
in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The positions next to the windows have lap

-shoulder

belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

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

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

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

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the
latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it.

Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt
Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the
release button on the buckle is positioned so you
would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if
you ever had to.

3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

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The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on
the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies
force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less
likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the
belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could
cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt
should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
These parts of the body are best able to take belt
restraining forces.

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash,
or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is
too loose. In a crash, you would move forward
too much, which could increase injury. The
shoulder belt should fit against your body.

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To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for
Children and Small Adults

Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added
safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown
child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a
shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away
from the neck and head.

There is one guide for each outside passenger position in
the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for
children who have outgrown child restraints and for
smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on
the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide
and use the safety belt:

1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of
the seatback and the interior body to remove the
guide from its storage clip.

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2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic
cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide
over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into
the slots of the guide.

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

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

To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the
belt edges together so that you can take them out from
the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage
clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the
guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and
the interior body , leaving only the loop of elastic
cord exposed.

Center Passenger Position

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Lap Belt

When you sit in the center seating position, you have a
lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt
longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

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

Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap
part of a lap

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

see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned

so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly
if you ever had to.

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Children

Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes
infants and all children smaller than adult size. 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.

Smaller Children and Babies

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any
air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured
or killed. This is true even though your vehicle
has Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags
plus lap

-shoulder belts offer the best protection

for adults, but not for young children and
infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system
nor its air bag system is designed for them.
Young children and infants need the protection
that a child restraint system can provide. Always
secure children pr operly in your vehicle.

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CAUTION:

Smaller children and babies should always be
restrained in a child or infant restraint. The
instructions for the restraint will say whether it is
the right type and size for your child. A very
young child’s hip bones are so small that a
regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it
should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the
child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply
force right on the child’s abdomen, which could
cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that
any child small enough for one is always properly
restrained in a child or infant restraint.

Infants need complete support, including support for the
head and neck. This is necessary because an infant’s
neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared
with the rest of its body. In a frontal crash, an infant in a
rear

-facing restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash

forces can be distributed across the strongest part of the
infant’s body, the back and shoulders. A baby should be
secured in an appropriate infant restraint. This is so
important that many hospitals today won’t release a
newborn infant to its parents unless there is an infant
restraint available for the baby’s first trip in a
motor vehicle.

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CAUTION:

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a
vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much

-- until a

crash. During a crash a baby will become so
heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby
will suddenly become a 240

-lb. (110 kg) force on

your arms. The baby would be almost impossible
to hold.

Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

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Child Restraints

Every time infants and young children ride in
vehicles, they should have protection provided by
appropriate restraints.

Q: What are the different types of add-on

child restraints?

A: Add-on child restraints are available in four basic

types. When selecting a child restraint, take into
consideration not only the child’s weight and size,
but also whether or not the restraint will be
compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will
be used.

An infant car bed (A) is a special bed made for use
in a motor vehicle. It’s an infant restraint system
designed to restrain or position a child on a
continuous flat surface. With an infant car bed,
make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the
center of the vehicle.

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A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant
to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear

-facing infant

restraints are designed for infants of up to about
20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type
of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head,
neck and body can have the support they need in a
frontal crash. Some infant seats come in two
parts

-- the base stays secured in the vehicle and

the seat part is removable.

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A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a
child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These
forward

-facing restraints are designed to help

protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs.
(9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches
(66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years
of age. One type, a convertible restraint, is
designed to be used either as a rear

-facing infant

seat or a forward

-facing child seat.

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A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who
are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs.
(18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four
to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to
improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system.
Booster seats with shields use lap

-only belts;

however, booster seats without shields use
lap

-shoulder belts. Booster seats can also help a

child to see out the window .

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When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child
restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it
will have a label saying that it meets federal motor
vehicle safety standards.

Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may
find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a
booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in
your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within
the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury .
The instructions that come with the infant or child
restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s
manual and the child restraint instructions are important,
so if either one of these is not available, obtain a
replacement copy from the manufacturer.

Where to Put the Restraint

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at
General Motors therefore recommend that you put your
child restraint in the rear seat. Never put a rear

-facing

child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your
vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This
is because the back of the rear

-facing child

restraint would be very close to the inflating air
bag. Always secure a rear

-facing child restraint

in a rear seat.
You may secure a forward-facing child restraint

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

Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child
restraint properly .

Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move
around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in
the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child
restraint in your vehicle

-- even when no child is in it.

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Top Strap

Canadian law requires that forward-facing child
restraints have a top strap, and that the strap
be anchored.

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be
anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, your
dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and
installation instructions specifically designed for this
vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you.
This work will be done for you free of charge. Or, you
may install the anchor yourself using the instructions
provided in the kit.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear
Outside Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part
about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure
to follow the instructions that came with the child
restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and
as the instructions say .

1. Put the restraint on the seat.

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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 .

3. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed.
If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or

neck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while
you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using
a forward

-facing child restraint, you may find it

helpful to use your knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.

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

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt and let it go back all the way . The safety belt
will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult
or larger child passenger .

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center
Rear Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the
instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure
the child in the child restraint when and as the
instructions say .

See the earlier part about the top strap if the child
restraint has one.

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1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch
plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat.

3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the
restraint. The child restraint instructions will show
you how .

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push
down on the child restraint. If you’re using a
forward

-facing child restraint, you may find it

helpful to use your knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.

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

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger
child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right
Front Seat Position

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

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

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your
vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This
is because the back of the rear

-facing child

restraint would be very close to the inflating air
bag. Always secure a rear

-facing child restraint

in the rear seat.

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

-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

You’ll be using the lap

-shoulder belt. See the earlier part

about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure
to follow the instructions that came with the child
restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and
as the instructions say .

1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air
bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go
before securing a forward

-facing child restraint. (See

“Seats” in the Index.)

2. Put the restraint on the seat.

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

If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or
neck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the
safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

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6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the
retractor while you push down on the child restraint.
You may find it helpful to use your knee to push
down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

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

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt and let it go back all the way . The safety belt
will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult
or larger child passenger .

Larger Children

Children who have outgrown child restraints should
wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a
window so the child can wear a lap

-shoulder belt and

get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

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Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the
safety belts properly .

D

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in
a crash.

D

Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other
people who are.

CAUTION:

Never do this.
Here two children are wearing the same belt. The

belt can’t properly spread the impact for ces. In a
crash, the two children can be crushed together
and seriously injured. A belt must be used by
only one person at a time.

Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt,

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

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but

be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s
shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body
would have the restraint that belts provide. If the
child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see
“Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index.
If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still
very close to the child’s face or neck, you might
want to place the child in the center seat position,
the one that has only a lap belt.

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CAUTION:

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

lap

-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind

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

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt
should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching
the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s
pelvic bones in a crash.

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Safety Belt Extender

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

But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your
dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go
in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the
extender will be long enough for you. The extender will
be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that
you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it
only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it
to the regular safety belt.

Checking Your Restraint Systems

Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light
and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and
anchorages are working properly. Look for any other
loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see
anything that might keep a safety belt system from
doing its job, have it repaired.

Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a
crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is
torn or frayed, get a new one right away .

Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and
have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)

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Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash

If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary .

But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn
during a more severe crash, then you need new belts.

If you ever see a label on the driver’s or the right front
passenger’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be
sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help
protect you in a collision. You would see this label on
the belt near the latch plate.

If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision
damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt
or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs
may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at
the time of the collision.

If your seat adjuster won’t work after a crash, the special
part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the
adjuster may need to be replaced.

If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag
system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in
this section.

2-

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Section 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting,
shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is
working properly

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

2

-2 Keys

2

-4 Door Locks

2

-9 Remote Lock Control

2

-14 Trunk

2

-15 Theft

2

-16 Universal Theft-Deterrent

2

-18 PASS-Key

R

II

2

-19 New Vehicle “Break-In”

2

-20 Ignition Positions

2

-21 Starting Your Engine

2

-23 Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

2

-24 Automatic Transaxle Operation

2

-27 Parking Brake

2

-28 Shifting Into PARK (P)

2

-30 Shifting Out of PARK (P)

2

-31 Parking Over Things That Burn

2

-31 Engine Exhaust

2

-33 Windows

2

-34 Tilt Wheel

2

-34 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

2

-42 Exterior Lamps

2

-44 Interior Lamps

2

-47 Mirrors

2

-51 Storage Compartments

2

-54 Accessory Power Outlet

2

-54 OnStar

R

System (Option)

2

-55 Sunroof (Option)

2

-56 Universal Transmitter

2

-60 The Instrument Panel - Your

Information System

2-64 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
2

-75 Driver Information Center

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Keys

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition
key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or
others could be badly injured or even killed.

They could operate power windows or other
controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t
leave the keys in a vehicle with children.

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The ignition key is for the
ignition only .

The door key is for the
doors and all other locks.

When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer removes the
plugs from the keys and gives them to the first owner.
The ignition key has a bar

-coded key tag.

Each tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a
qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the
tags in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able
to have new ones made easily using the tags. You can
also go to your dealer for the correct key code if you
need a new ignition key .

NOTICE:

Your vehicle has a number of features that
can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot
of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever
lock your keys inside. You may even have to
damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you
have extra keys.

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Door Locks

CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
Passengers -- especially children -- can easily

open the doors and fall out. When a door is
locked, the inside handle won’t open it.

Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked
door when you slow down or stop your vehicle.

This may not be so obvious: You increase the
chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a
crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts
properly, lock your doors, and you will be far
better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
From the outside, use your door key or remote lock

control transmitter.

From the inside, to lock the door, rotate the locking
lever forward.

To unlock the door, rotate the locking lever
rearward. There is a red mark on the switch when
the door is unlocked.

Central Door Unlocking System

If the driver’s door key is held in the unlock position for
more than one second, all doors will unlock.

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Power Door Locks

With power door locks, you
can lock or unlock all doors
of your vehicle from the
driver or front passenger
door lock switch.

Door Ajar Reminder

If a door is not fully closed when the transaxle is in gear,
a chime will sound and the Driver Information Center
(DIC) will display one of these messages:

DRIVER DOOR AJAR
PASSENGER DOOR AJAR
LEFT REAR DOOR AJAR
RIGHT REAR DOOR AJAR

Programmable Automatic Door Locks

This is a personalization feature that programs your door
locks to automatically lock or unlock.

Close the doors and turn on the ignition. Every time you
move the shift lever out of PARK (P), all of the doors
will lock. And, every time you stop and move the shift
lever into PARK (P), the doors will unlock. If someone
needs to get out while you’re not in PARK (P), have that
person use the manual or power lock. When the door is
closed again, it will not lock automatically . Just use the
manual or power lock to lock the door again. If you
need to lock the doors before shifting out of PARK (P),
use the manual or power lock button to lock the doors.

Customizing Your Automatic Door Locks Feature

You can program the automatic door locks feature to
change to the following modes:

Mode 0: No automatic door lock or unlock.
Mode 1: All doors automatically lock when shifted out

of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock.

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Mode 2: All doors automatically lock when shifted out

of PARK (P). Only the driver’s door automatically
unlocks when shifted into PARK (P).

Mode 3: All doors automatically lock when shifted out
of PARK (P). All doors automatically unlock when
shifted into PARK (P).

Vehicles are delivered programmed in Mode 3.
To change the modes:

1. Close all doors and turn the ignition on. Keep all
doors closed throughout this procedure.

2. Press and hold the lock position on the driver’s
power door lock switch through Step 4.

3. Press the LOCK button on the remote lock control
transmitter. The automatic door locks will remain in
the current mode.

4. Press the LOCK button on the transmitter again.
Each time the transmitter’s LOCK button is pressed,
the mode will advance by one, going from Mode 3 to
Mode 0 to Mode 1, etc.

NOTE: The door locks will cycle according to the
mode entered while customizing memory door locks.
(Mode 0 has no feedback.)

5. Release the power door lock switch. The
automatic door locks will remain in the most
recent mode selected.

6. Turn the ignition to OFF.

Delayed Locking

This personalization feature lets the driver delay the
actual locking of the vehicle. When the power door lock
switch is pressed with the key removed from the ignition
and the driver’s door open, a chime will sound three
times to signal that the lock delay mode is active. When
all doors have been closed, the doors will lock
automatically after five seconds. If any door is opened
before this, the five

-second timer will reset itself once

all the doors have been closed again.
Pressing the door lock switch twice within two seconds

will override this feature.

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Personalization Programming

The delayed locking feature can be turned on or off for
each driver’s remote lock control transmitter.

To turn the feature on:

1. Press and hold the lock position on the driver’s
power door lock switch throughout this procedure.
All of the doors will lock.

2. Press the UNLOCK button on the transmitter to
enter the programming mode. The lock delay is still
off and all doors will remain locked.

3. Press the UNLOCK button on the transmitter again.
Lock delay is now active and all doors will unlock.

4. Release the power door lock switch.

To turn the feature off, repeat this procedure.
This procedure changes the mode for only the

transmitter used to change this setting. The procedure
will need to be repeated for the second transmitter.

Rear Door Security Locks

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

To Use One of These Locks

1. Open one of the rear doors.

2. Move the lever on the
door all the way up to
the ENGAGED position.

3. Close the door.

4. Do the same thing to the other rear door lock.
The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from

inside when this feature is in use.

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To Open a Rear Door When the Security Lock is On

1. Unlock the door from
the inside, or from the
outside using the remote
lock control or central
door unlocking feature.

2. Then open the door from the outside using the
remote lock control transmitter or central door
unlocking feature.

If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or
older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open
the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and
older children know how these security locks work, and
how to cancel the locks.

To Cancel the Rear Door Lock

1. Unlock the door from the inside or from the outside
using the remote lock control transmitter or central
door unlocking feature.

2. Open the door from the outside.

3. Move the lever all the
way down.

4. Do the same for the
other rear door.

The rear door locks will now work normally .

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Anti-Lockout Feature

The power door locks will not work if the key is left
in the ignition with the driver’s door open. You can
override this feature by holding the power door lock
switch for more than three seconds, unless the engine
is running.

Leaving Your Vehicle

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

Remote Lock Control

You can lock and unlock
your doors or unlock your
trunk from about 3 feet
(1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m)
away using the remote lock
control transmitter supplied
with your vehicle.

Your remote lock control operates on a radio frequency
subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Rules and with Industry Canada.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation.

This device complies with RSS

-210 of Industry Canada.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this
device must accept any interference received, including
interference that may cause undesired operation of
the device.

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

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This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to
30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in
range. This is normal for any remote lock control
system. If the transmitter does not work or if you
have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter
to work, try this:

D

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

D

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

D

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

D

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

Operation

The driver’s door will unlock when UNLOCK is
pressed. If UNLOCK is pressed again within five
seconds, all doors will unlock. Pressing the UNLOCK
button will also illuminate the interior lamps. See
“Illuminated Entry” in the Index. All doors will lock
when LOCK is pressed.

The trunk will unlock when the trunk button is pressed
while the vehicle is in any gear.

Instant Alarm

When the button with the horn symbol on the remote
lock control transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound
and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to one
minute. This can be turned off by pressing the instant
alarm button again, unlocking the vehicle with a key or
by turning the ignition on.

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Personalization Features

The following list of features that are available on your
vehicle can be programmed to the driver’s preference
for each transmitter.

D

Memory Door Locks: This feature programs your
door locks to automatically lock or unlock when
shifting in and out of PARK (P).

D

Security Feedback: This feature provides feedback
to the driver when the vehicle receives a command
from the remote lock control transmitter.

D

Delayed Locking: This feature lets the driver delay
the actual locking of the vehicle. When all doors
have been closed, the doors will lock automatically
after five seconds.

D

Perimeter Lighting: When the UNLOCK button on
the transmitter is pressed, the headlamps, parking
lamps, back

-up lamps and cornering lamps will turn

on in dark conditions.

D

Memory Seat and Mirrors: This feature programs
your driver’s seat and outside mirrors to a set
memory position when the UNLOCK button on the
transmitter is pressed.

For more detailed information and programming
instructions, refer to the Index for each individual
feature listed above.

Security Feedback

This personalization feature provides feedback to the
driver when the vehicle receives a command from the
remote lock control transmitter. The following modes
may be selected:

Mode 0: No transmitter response when locking or
unlocking the vehicle.

Mode 1: No transmitter response when locking;
headlamps, parking lamps, and cornering lamps flash
when unlocking the vehicle.

Mode 2: Headlamps, parking lamps, and cornering
lamps flash when locking; no response when unlocking
the vehicle.

Mode 3: Headlamps, parking lamps, and
cornering lamps flash when locking and when
unlocking the vehicle.

Mode 4: Headlamps, parking lamps, and cornering
lamps flash and horn chirps when locking; no response
when unlocking the vehicle.

Mode 5: Headlamps, parking lamps, and cornering
lamps flash and horn chirps when locking; exterior
lamps flash when unlocking the vehicle.

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Vehicles are delivered programmed in Mode 5. To
change to another mode:

1. Turn the ignition key to OFF.

2. Press and hold the lock position on the driver’s
power door lock switch throughout this procedure.

3. Press the trunk button on the transmitter to enter the
programming mode. The transmitter will remain in
its current mode.

4. Press the trunk button again. Each time the trunk
button is pressed, the horn will chirp and the
transmitter will advance to the next mode.

5. Release the power door lock switch.

This procedure changes the mode for only the
transmitter used to change this setting. The procedure
will need to be repeated for the second transmitter.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle

Each remote lock control transmitter is coded to prevent
another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a
transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be
purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any
remaining transmitters with you when you go to your
dealer . When the dealer matches the replacement
transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters
must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the
new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your
vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters
matched to it.

See your dealer to match transmitters to another vehicle.

Battery Replacement

Under normal use, the battery in your remote lock
control transmitter should last about two years.

You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t
work at the normal range in any location. If you have to
get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works,
it’s probably time to change the battery.

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NOTICE:

When replacing the battery, use care not to
touch any of the circuitry. Static from your
body transferred to these surfaces may damage
the transmitter.

For battery replacement, use a DuracellR battery , type
DL

-2032, or a similar type.

To replace the battery:

1. Insert a coin into the notch near the key ring. Turn
the coin counterclockwise to separate the two halves
of the transmitter.

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

3. Replace the battery as the instructions under the
cover indicate.

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

5. Test the operation of the transmitter with your
vehicle. If the transmitter does not work,
resynchronize the transmitter.

Resynchronization

If only the instant alarm button works, the transmitter
needs to be resynchronized to the receiver. Do this by
pressing and holding both the LOCK and UNLOCK
buttons on the transmitter for about eight seconds. You
must be within range of the vehicle.

Once the transmitter has been resynchronized, the horn
will chirp and the exterior lamps will flash once. The
system should now operate properly .

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Trunk

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid
open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can
come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell
CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death.

If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if
electrical wiring or other cable connections must
pass through the seal between the body and the
trunk lid:

D

Make sure all other windows are shut.

D

Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed with the setting
on any airflow selection except RECIRC.
That will force outside air into your vehicle.
See “Comfort Controls” in the Index.

D

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

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Trunk Lock Release

To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the door key
and turn it.

Remote Trunk Release

Press the TRUNK release
button located to the right of
the steering column to
release the trunk lid. The
trunk release lockout switch
must be ON.

The system also works with the remote lock control.
The trunk will unlock when the trunk button is pressed
while the vehicle is in any gear.

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Remote Trunk Release Lockout

The trunk release lockout
switch in the glove box
allows you to secure items
in the trunk.

Move the trunk release lockout switch to OFF, lock the
glove box and take the key with you. Now the trunk
release, located to the right of the steering column, will
not open the trunk. However, the remote lock control
transmitter will still open the trunk.

Trunk Security Override

The remote lock control transmitter will open the trunk
even if the remote trunk release lockout switch is OFF.

Theft

Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
Although your vehicle has a number of theft

-deterrent

features, we know that nothing we put on it can make
it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you
can help.

Key in the Ignition

If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an
easy target for joy riders or professional thieves

-- so

don’t do it.
With the ignition of f and the driver’s door open, you’ll

hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from
the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your
steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition
and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.

Parking at Night

Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your
vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight.
Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

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Parking Lots

If you park in a lot where someone will be watching
your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys.
But what if you have to leave your ignition key?

D

If possible, park in a busy , well lit area.

D

Put your valuables in a storage area, like your
trunk or glove box. Be sure to close and lock the
storage area.

D

Close all windows.

D

Move the trunk release lockout switch to OFF.

D

Lock the glove box.

D

Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

D

Then take the door key and remote lock control
transmitter with you.

Universal Theft-Deterrent

Your vehicle has a theft-deterrent alarm system. With
this system, if your ignition is off, the SECURITY light
will flash as you open the door.

This light reminds you to
activate the theft

-deterrent

system. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the door.

2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or
remote lock control system. The SECURITY light
should come on and stay on.

3. Close all doors. The SECURITY light should go off
after about 30 seconds. The security system is not
armed until the SECURITY light is off. If the
SECURITY light stays on or flashes when the
ignition is turned on, there is a problem with the
system and the vehicle should be serviced.

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If the SECURITY light comes on for one minute and then
shuts off while the ignition is on, the security system has
detected a problem. See your dealer for service.

If a door or the trunk is opened without the key or
remote lock control transmitter, the alarm will go off. It
will also go off if the trunk lock or door locks are
damaged. Your vehicle’s lamps will flash and the horn
will sound for several minutes, then will go off to save
battery power.

Remember, the theft

-deterrent system won’t activate if

you lock the doors with a key or manual door lock. It
only activates if you use the power door lock switch or
remote lock control transmitter. You should also
remember that you can start your vehicle with the
correct ignition key if the alarm has been set off, but this
does not shut off the alarm.

Here’ s how to avoid setting off the alarm by accident:

D

If you don’t want to activate the theft

-deterrent

system, lock the door either using a key , or the
manual door lock switch.

D

Always unlock a door with a key , or use the remote
lock control system. Unlocking a door any other way
will set off the alarm.

If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door
with your key .

You can also turn off the alarm by pressing UNLOCK
on the remote lock control transmitter. The alarm won’t
stop if you try to unlock a door any other way .

Testing the Alarm

The alarm can be tested by following these steps:

1. From inside the vehicle, roll down the driver’s
window and open the driver’s door.

2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the
power door lock switch while the door is open, or
with the remote lock control transmitter.

3. Get out of the car, close the door and wait for the
SECURITY light to go out.

4. Then reach in through the window , unlock the door
with the manual door lock and open the door. This
should set off the alarm.

If the alarm does not sound when it should, but the
vehicle’ s lamps flash, check to see if the horn works.
The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see
“Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.

If the alarm does not sound, or the vehicle’s lamps do
not flash, the vehicle should be serviced by an
authorized service center.

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PASS-KeyR II

Your vehicle is equipped
with the PASS

-Key II

(Personalized Automotive
Security System)
theft

-deterrent system.

PASS

-Key II is a passive

theft

-deterrent system. It

works when you insert
or remove the key from
the ignition.

PASS

-Key II uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key

that matches a decoder in your vehicle.
When the PASS-Key II system senses that someone is

using the wrong key , it shuts down the vehicle’s starter
and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter
won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone
tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key
during this time, the vehicle will not start. This
discourages someone from randomly trying different
keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make
a match.

The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s
inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the
engine does not start and the SECURITY light is on or
you get the CLEAN KEY...WAIT 3 MINUTES message
on the DIC, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the
ignition off.

Clean and dry the key . Wait about three minutes and try
again. The SECURITY light may remain on during this
time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears
to be clean and dry , wait about three minutes and try
another ignition key . At this time, you may also want to
check the fuses (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the
Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your
vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first
ignition key may be faulty. See your dealer or a
locksmith who can service the PASS

-Key II.

If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or
missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work. The
SECURITY light will flash and the CLEAN KEY... WAIT
3 MINUTES message will appear. But you don’t have to
wait three minutes before trying another ignition key.

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See your dealer or a locksmith who can service the
PASS

-Key II to have a new key made.

If you’re ever driving and the SECURITY light comes
on or PASS

-KEY SYSTEM FAULT appears, you will

be able to restart your engine if you turn it off. Your
PASS-Key II system, however, is not working properly
and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not
protected by the PASS

-Key II system.

If you lose or damage a PASS-Key II ignition key, see
your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS

-Key II

to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the
Oldsmobile Roadside Assistance Center at
1

-800-442-OLDS (6537). In Canada, call

1

-800-268-6800.

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate
“break

-in.” But it will perform better in the

long run if you follow these guidelines:

D

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

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

Don’t make full

-throttle starts.

D

Avoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time
your new brake linings aren’t yet broken
in. Hard stops with new linings can mean
premature wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this breaking

-in guideline every

time you get new brake linings.

D

Don’t tow a trailer during break

-in. See

“Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more
information.

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Ignition Positions

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition
key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or
others could be injured or even killed. They could
operate power windows or other controls or even
make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in
the vehicle with children.

With the ignition key in the ignition, you can turn the
ignition switch to five positions:

ACCESSORY (A): In this position, you can operate
your electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition
switch as you turn the top of it toward you.

LOCK (B): This is the only position in which you can
remove the key. This position locks your ignition, steering
wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft

-deterrent feature.

OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but
still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering
wheel like LOCK and it doesn’t send any electrical
power to the accessories. Use OFF if you must have
your vehicle in motion while the engine is not running.

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RUN (D): This is the position the switch returns to after

you start your engine and release the switch. This is the
position for driving. Even when the engine is not
running, you can use RUN to operate your electrical
power accessories and to display some instrument panel
warning lights.

START (E): This position starts your engine. When the
engine starts, release the key . The ignition switch will
return to RUN for normal driving.

NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t
turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if
so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the
steering wheel left and right while you turn the
key hard. But turn the key only with your hand.
Using a tool to force it could break the key or the
ignition switch. If none of this works, then your
vehicle needs service.

Key Reminder Warning

If you leave your key in the ignition, with the engine off,
you will hear a warning chime when you open the
driver’s door.

Retained Accessory Power

After you turn the ignition off and remove the key, you
will still have electrical power to such accessories as the
radio, power windows, and sunroof (option) for up to 10
minutes. But if you open a door, power is shut off.

Always leave your key in LOCK. If you leave your key
in any other position than LOCK, your battery will
discharge prematurely.

Starting Your Engine

Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine won’t start in any other position

-- that’s a

safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving,
use NEUTRAL (N) only .

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NOTICE:

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

Starting Your 4.0L V8 Engine

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your
engine gets warm.

NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to
be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat
can damage your starter motor. Wait about
15 seconds between each try to help avoid
draining your battery or damaging your starter.

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in
START for about three seconds at a time until your
engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each
try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging
your starter.

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then
stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline.
Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and holding it there as you hold the key in
START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts
briefly but then stops again, do the same thing.

NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
parts or accessories, you could change the way
the engine operates. Before adding electrical
equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t,
your engine might not perform properly.

If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see
the part of this manual that tells how to do it
without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing
Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine
coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and
better fuel economy during engine warm

-up. Usually ,

the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of
four hours prior to starting your vehicle.

To Use the Engine Coolant Heater

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110

-volt AC outlet.

CAUTION:

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong
kind of extension cord could overheat and cause
a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the
cord into a properly grounded three

-prong

110

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

heavy

-duty three-prong extension cord rated for

at least 15 amps.

4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and
store the cord as it was before to keep it away from
moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be
damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the
kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of
trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact
your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your
vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that
particular area.

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Automatic Transaxle Operation

There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It’s

the best position to use when you start your engine
because your vehicle can’t move easily.

CAUTION:

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.

Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
You or others could be injured. To be sure your
vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly
level ground, always set your parking brake and
move the shift lever to PARK (P).

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

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before
starting the engine. Your vehicle has a Brake

-Transaxle

Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P)
when the ignition key is in RUN.

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

NOTICE:

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

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see
“Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine
doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re
already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only . Also, use
NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

CAUTION:

Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while
your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is
dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the
brake pedal, your vehicle could move very
rapidly . You could lose control and hit people or
objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

NOTICE:

Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out
of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine
racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

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AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B): This position is

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

D

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

D

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

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal

driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel
economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B). Here
are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B):

D

when driving on hilly , winding roads,

D

when towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears, or

D

when going down a steep hill.

SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but
lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE
(B) or THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It
can help control your speed as you go down steep
mountain roads, but then you would also want to use
your brakes off and on.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power
but lower fuel economy than SECOND (2). You can
use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If
the selector lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle
won’t shift into FIRST (1) until the vehicle is going
slowly enough.

NOTICE:

If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to
drive. This might happen if you were stuck in
very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid
object. You could damage your transaxle.

Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold
your vehicle there with only the accelerator
pedal. This could overheat and damage the
transaxle. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P)
to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

Selectable Shift

This button lets you change from a normal driving mode
to a power mode. For general driving conditions, use the
normal mode.

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Press the button on your shift lever so that it’s either in
the NORMAL or POWER position. When it’s in the
NORMAL position, the line on the button will be
showing. When in POWER, the line is not showing.

In the NORMAL position, the transaxle shifts at lower
engine speeds. For increased performance, you may
choose the POWER mode.

Parking Brake

Setting the parking brake: Hold the regular brake

pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking
brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the
parking brake indicator light will come on.

Releasing the parking brake: You will need to use the
PUSH TO RELEASE parking brake pedal. Hold the
regular brake down and push the parking brake pedal
with your left foot. This will release the parking brake
pedal. When you lift your left foot, the parking brake
pedal will follow it to the released position.

If you try to drive with the parking brake on, the parking
brake indicator light stays on. The PARK BRAKE SET
message will appear in the Driver Information Center,
and a chime will sound until you release the parking
brake or recycle the ignition.

NOTICE:

Driving with the parking brake on can cause
your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to
replace them, and you could also damage other
parts of your vehicle.

If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill,
see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That part shows
what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if
the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If
you have left the engine running, the vehicle can
move suddenly. You or others could be injured.
To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when
you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that
follow . If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a
Trailer” in the Index.

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and
set the parking brake by pushing down the parking
brake pedal with your left foot.

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) as follows:

D

Hold in the button on the lever.

D

Push the lever all the way down toward the front
of your vehicle.

3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK.

4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can
leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your
hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

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Leaving Your Vehicle With the
Engine Running

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the
engine running. Your vehicle could move
suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P)
with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you
leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could
overheat and even catch fire. You or others could
be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the
engine running unless you have to.

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine
running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your
parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After
you’ve moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the
regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the
shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pushing
the button.

If you can, it means the shift lever wasn’t fully locked
into PARK (P).

Torque Lock

If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your
transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the
vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in
the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift
lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To
prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift
into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s
seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in
the Index.

When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of
PARK (P) before you release the parking brake.

If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another
vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the
pressure from the parking pawl in the transaxle, so you
can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

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Shifting Out of PARK (P)

CAUTION:

Before shifting out of PARK (P) you must fully
apply your regular brakes. Your vehicle can roll.
If you have left the engine running, the vehicle
can move suddenly. You or others could be
injured. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a
Trailer” in the Index.

Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock
(BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brake
before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition
is in RUN. See “Shifting the Automatic Transaxle” in
the Index.

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on
the shift lever

-- push the shift lever all the way into

PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then
move the shift lever into the gear you wish. Press the
shift lever button before moving the shift lever.

If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t
shift out of PARK (P), try this:

1. Turn the key to the OFF ignition position. Open and
close the driver’s door to turn off the retained
accessory power feature.

2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4.

3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N).

4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear
you want.

5. Take your vehicle to an authorized service center as
soon as you can.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

CAUTION:

Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust
parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park
over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that
can burn.

Engine Exhaust

CAUTION:

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas
carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or
smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.

You might have exhaust coming in if:

D

Your exhaust system sounds strange
or different.

D

Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.

D

Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.

D

Your vehicle was damaged when driving over
high points on the road or over road debris.

D

Repairs weren’t done correctly.

D

Your vehicle or exhaust system had been
modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into
your vehicle:

D

Drive it only with all the windows down to
blow out any CO; and

D

Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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Running Your Engine While
You’re Parked

It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you
ever have to, here are some things to know .

CAUTION:

Idling the engine with the climate control
system off could allow dangerous exhaust into
your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under
“Engine Exhaust”).

Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly
carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even
if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One
place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust

-- with

CO

-- can come in easily. NEVER park in a

garage with the engine running.
Another closed-in place can be a blizzard.

(See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if
the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you’ve left the
engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
You or others could be injured. To be sure your
vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly
level ground, always set your parking brake and
move the shift lever to PARK (P).

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t
move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index.

If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a
trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Windows

Power Windows

Switches on the driver’s armrest control each of the
windows while the ignition is on or retained accessory
power is active. In addition, each passenger’s door
armrest has a switch for its own window .

Express

-Down Window

The switch for the driver’s window has an express

-down

feature. Pull the switch toward you, release it and the
window will lower automatically . To partially open the
window, pull the switch toward you and quickly release
it. To stop the window from lowering, pull the switch
again, then release.

To raise the window, hold the switch forward.

Window Lock

Press the right side of the WINDOW LOCK switch on
the driver’s armrest to disable all passenger window
switches. The driver’s window controls will still be
operable. This is a useful feature when you have
children as passengers.

Press the left side of the WINDOW LOCK switch to
allow passengers to use their window switches again.

Horn

Nearly the entire surface of the center of the steering
wheel is an active horn pad. Press anywhere on the
steering wheel pad to sound the horn.

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Tilt Wheel

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering
wheel before you drive.

You can also raise it to the highest level to give your
legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.

To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the
lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to a
comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the
wheel in place.

Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

The lever on the left side of the steering column
includes your:

D

Turn and Lane Change Signals

D

Cruise Control

D

Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer

D

Headlamps

D

Parking Lamps

D

Flash-To-Pass Feature

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Turn and Lane Change Signals

The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two
downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you
to signal a turn or a lane change.

To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or
down. When the turn is finished, the lever will
return automatically .

An arrow on the
instrument panel will
flash in the direction of
the turn or lane change.

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever
until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you
complete your lane change. The lever will return by
itself when you release it.

As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’t
flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out
and other drivers won’t see your turn signal.

If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid
an accident.

If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn,
check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the
Index) and for burned

-out bulbs.

Turn Signal On Chime

If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a
mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound and the DIC will
display the TURN SIGNAL ON? reminder message.
To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the
off position. To turn off the DIC message, press any
button on the DIC.

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Headlamps

Turn the band to this symbol to turn on:

D

Parking Lamps

D

Sidemarker Lamps

D

T aillamps

D

Instrument Panel Lights

D

License Plate Lamps

Turn the band to this symbol to turn on the

headlamps as well as the other operating lamps.
Turn the band to OFF to turn off the lamps/lights.

Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer

T o change the headlamps
from low beam to high or
high to low, pull the turn
signal lever all the way
toward you until you hear a
click. Then release it.

When the high beams are
on, a light on the instrument
panel also will be on.

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Lamps On Reminder

If the headlamp switch is left on you’ll hear a warning
chime when you turn the ignition off, remove the key
from the ignition and open the driver’s door.

Flash-To-Pass

This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to
signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. It
works even if your headlamps are off.

To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you.
If your headlamps are off, your high

-beam headlamps

will turn on. They’ll stay on as long as you hold the
lever there. Release the lever to turn them off.

If your headlamps are on, but on low beam, the system
works normally. Just pull the lever until it clicks. Your
headlamps will shift to high beam and stay there. To
return to low beam, just pull the lever toward you.

If your headlamps are on, and on high beam, your
headlamps will switch to low beam. To get back to high
beam, pull the lever toward you.

Windshield Wipers

The lever on the right side of your steering column
controls your windshield wipers.

For a single wiping cycle, move the lever up to MIST.
Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The
wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more
cycles, hold the lever to MIST longer.

For steady wiping at low speed, push the lever down to
the LO position. For high-speed wiping, push the lever
down further, to HI. To stop the wipers, move the lever
to OFF.

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You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay
between wiper cycles. This can be very useful in light
rain or snow . Push the lever down to the first detent,
DELAY. Turn the band closer to the short lines for fewer
wiper passes per minute. As you turn the band toward
the long lines, the wiper cycles per minute will increase.

Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you
from seeing well enough to drive safely . To avoid
damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper
blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the
windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your
blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade
inserts. See “Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement” in
the Index.

Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit
breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away
snow or ice to prevent an overload.

Windshield Washer

The lever on the right side of your steering column also
controls your windshield washer. To spray washer fluid
on the windshield, pull the lever toward you. The wipers
will clear the window and then either stop or return to
your preset speed. For more washer cycles, pull and
hold the lever.

CAUTION:

In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until
the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer
fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking
your vision.

If the fluid level in the windshield washer bottle is low ,
the message LOW WASHER FLUID will appear in the
Driver Information Center. See “Windshield Washer
Fluid” in the Index.

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Cruise Control

With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about
25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on
the accelerator. This is helpful on long trips.

Cruise control does not work at speeds below about
25 mph (40 km/h).

When you apply your brakes, the cruise control
shuts off.

CAUTION:

D

Cruise control can be dangerous where you
can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So,
don’t use your cruise control on winding
roads or in heavy traffic.

D

Cruise control can be dangerous on
slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes
in tire traction can cause needless wheel
spinning, and you could lose control. Don’t
use cruise control on slippery roads.

If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction
control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise
control will automatically disengage. (See “Traction
Control System” in the Index.) When road conditions
allow you to safely use it again, you may turn the cruise
control back on.

Setting Cruise Control

CAUTION:

If you leave your cruise control switch on when
you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button
and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You
could be startled and even lose control. Keep the
cruise control switch off until you want to use it.

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1. Move the cruise control switch to ON.

2. Get up to the speed you want.

3. Push in the button at the end of the lever and release
it. The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will
come on.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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Resuming a Set Speed

Setting the cruise control at a desired speed and then
applying the brake will end the cruise control function.

Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more,
you can briefly move the cruise control switch from ON
to RES/ACC (Resume/Accelerate) to reset. This returns
you to your desired preset speed.

Remember, if you hold the switch at RES/ACC, the
vehicle will accelerate until you release the switch or
apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don’t
hold the switch at RES/ACC.

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control

There are two ways to go to a higher speed.

D

Use the accelerator pedal to go to a higher speed.
Push the button at the end of the lever, then release
the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now
cruise at the higher speed. Or,

D

Move the cruise switch from ON to RES/ACC. Hold
it there until you reach a desired speed and then
release the switch. Or, to increase your speed in very
small amounts, move the switch to RES/ACC briefly
and then release it. Each time you do this, your
vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.

The accelerate feature will only work after you have set
the cruise control speed by pushing the SET button.

Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control

There are two ways to reduce your speed while using
cruise control:

D

Push in the button at the end of the lever until you
reach a desired lower speed then release it.

D

To slow down in very small amounts, push the
button briefly. Each time you do this, you’ll go
1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control

Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When
you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow
down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.

Using Cruise Control on Hills

How well your cruise control will work on hills depends
upon your speed, load, and the steepness of the hills.
When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the
accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going
downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to
keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes
you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too
much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills.

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Ending Cruise Control

There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:

D

Step lightly on the brake pedal, or

D

Move the cruise switch to OFF. The CRUISE light
will also go out.

Erasing Speed Memory

When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition,
your cruise control set speed memory is erased.

Exterior Lamps

Headlamps

See “Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever” in the Index.

Daytime Running Lamps

Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for
others to see the front of your vehicle during the day .
DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the
short periods after dawn and before sunset.

A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the
DRL work, so be sure it isn’t covered.

The DRL system will make your low

-beam headlamps

come on at reduced brightness in daylight when:

D

the ignition is on,

D

the headlamp switch is off and

D

the transaxle is not in PARK (P).

When DRL are on, only your low

-beam headlamps will

be on. The parking lamps, taillamps, sidemarker and
other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t
be lit up either.

When it’s dark enough outside, your low

-beam headlamps

will change to full brightness. The other lamps that come
on with your headlamps will also come on. When it’s
bright enough outside, the regular lamps will go off, and
your low-beam headlamps change to the reduced
brightness of DRL.

To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, shift the
transaxle into PARK (P). The DRL will stay off until
you shift out of PARK (P).

To turn off all exterior lighting at night when you are in
PARK (P), turn off the headlamps and move the twilight
sentinel control, located to the left of the steering
column, all the way toward MIN. See “Twilight
Sentinel” in the Index.

As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
headlamp system when you need it.