Oldsmobile BRAVADA 2001 Owner Manual

Every

2001 Bravada

under warranty is

backed with the

following

services:

1-800-442-OLDS

1-800-442-OLDS

(

For vehicles purchased in Canada,

(

For vehicles purchased in Canada,

1-800-268-6800

call

call

that provides in an emergency:

1-800-268-6800

)

)

Courtesy

Transportation

Trip Routing

Free
Free
Free
Free

lockout assistance
dead-battery assistance
out-of-fuel assistance

flat-tire change

Emergency

towing

2001 Oldsmobile Bravada

Owner's Manual

Litho in U.S.A.
Part Number S2132 A First Edition

© Copyright General Motors Corporation 2000

All Rights Reserved

i

Section

Section

Table of Contents

Seats and Restraint Systems

1

Seats and Seat Controls
Safety Belts

Features and Controls

2

Windows
Keys and Door Locks
Remote Keyless Entry System
Liftgate
Automatic Transmission
All-Wheel Drive
Parking Brake
Tilt Wheel
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
Windshield Wipers

Air Bag Systems
Restraint Systems for Children

Cruise Control
Exterior and Interior Lamps
Mirrors
Storage Compartments
Luggage Carrier
Accessory Power Outlets
OnStar® System (If Equipped)
Sunroof (If Equipped)
HomeLink® Transmitter
Instrument Panel, Warning Lights and Gages

ii

Section

Section

Section

Table of Contents (cont'd)

Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

3

Heating and Air Conditioning
Setting the Radio Clock
Radio/Cassette Player/CD Player

Your Driving and the Road

4

Your Driving, the Road and Your Vehicle
Defensive Driving
Drunken Driving
Control of a Vehicle
Braking
Steering

Problems on the Road

5

Hazard Warning Flashers
Jump Starting
Towing Your Vehicle

Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature
Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped)

Driving Tips for Various Road Conditions
Operating Your Vehicle Off Paved Roads
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Loading Your Vehicle
Towing a Trailer

Engine Overheating
Changing a Flat Tire
If You're Stuck

iii

Section

Section

Table of Contents (cont'd)

Service and Appearance Care

6

Fuel
Checking Fluids and Lubricants
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Brakes
Bulb Replacement
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

Maintenance Schedule

7

Scheduled Maintenance
Owner Checks and Services
Periodic Maintenance Inspections

Tires and Wheels
Appearance Care
Electrical System/Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Capacities and Specifications
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Maintenance Records

iv

Table of Contents (cont'd)

Customer Assistance Information

Section

Section

8

Customer Satisfaction Procedures
Customer Assistance Offices

Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation

Warranty Information (See Warranty Manual)
Reporting Safety Defects on page 8-9
Service Publications

Index

9

In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual.

You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

Please refer to the last page of this manual for your

Service Station Guide

v

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
OLDSMOBILE, the OLDSMOBILE Rocket Emblem
and the name BRAVADA are registered trademarks of
General Motors Corporation.

This manual includes the latest information at the time it
was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after
that time without further notice.

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.

vi

4-Door Utility

About Driving Your Vehicle

As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate
this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or
an accident. Be sure to read the “on-pavement” and
“off

-road” driving guidelines in this manual. (See “Your

Driving, the Road and Your Vehicle” and “Operating
Your Vehicle Off Paved Roads” in the Index.)

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.

vii

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.”

viii

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.

ix

Vehicle Symbols

These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. Also see “Warning Lights and Gages” in the Index.

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

BATTERY

x

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

CHILD
RESTRAINT
TOP STRAP

ANCHOR

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

FUEL

Service Station Guide

For

a More

Detailed Look at

What's Under the Hood

See Section 6

Hood Release

See Section 6

Windshield Washer

Fluid

See Section 6

Battery

See Section 6

Cooling System

See Section 5

Engine Oil Dipstick

See Section 6

Tire Pressure

See Section 6

Oil Viscosity

Engine Oil

See Section 6

Spare Tire Pressure

See Section 6

Fuel

Use unleaded only.

See Section 6

for octane ratings.

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

-8 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

-13 Here Are Questions Many People Ask

1

About Safety Belts

-14 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

1
1

-14 Driver Position

1

-20 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

-21 Right Front Passenger Position

1
1

-21 Air Bag System

-27 Rear Seat Passengers

1

-- and the Answers

-31 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for

1

Children and Small Adults

1-34 Center Rear Passenger Position
1

-35 Children

-38 Restraint Systems for Children

1
1

-49 Older Children

1

-52 Safety Belt Extender

-52 Checking Your Restraint Systems

1
1

-52 Replacing Restraint System Parts

After a Crash

1-

1-1

Seats and Seat Controls

This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust
them and fold them up and down.

Manual Passenger Seat

Pull the lever located under the front of the manual seat
up to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it.
Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your
body to make sure the seat is locked into place.

Power Seat(s) (If Equipped)

The control is on the outboard side of the seat.

1-2

Horizontal Control: Raise or lower the front of the

seat cushion by raising or lowering the forward edge of
the control.

Raise or lower the rear of the seat cushion by raising or
lowering the rear edge of the control. Move the seat
forward or rearward by moving the whole control
forward or rearward.

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

Vertical Control: Move the reclining front seatback
rearward or forward by moving the control toward the
rear or toward the front of the vehicle.

Power Lumbar Control

The control is on
the outboard side
of the driver’s and
passenger’s seat.

Press and hold the front of the control until you have
the desired lumbar support. T o decrease lumbar support,
press the rear of the control.

1-3

Memory Seat (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this
feature, the memory seat
control on the outboard
side of the driver’s seat
looks like this.

You can use this memory function to save your
seat cushion and seatback settings by using the
following procedure:

1. Adjust the driver’s seat to a safe and comfortable
driving position.

2. Press the SET button and then one of the two
numbered memory buttons. You will hear a chime
for each button pushed to confirm that your settings
have been placed in memory.

3. T o program your remote keyless entry transmitter,
press the UNLOCK button within five seconds of
programming the memory button. You will hear a
chime to confirm programming of the transmitter.

When your vehicle is in PARK (P), push and release the
numbered memory button you just stored. The seat will
move to the set position. You will hear one chime.

Pressing the unlock button of a remote keyless entry
transmitter will adjust the seat to the corresponding
stored memory position. You will hear one chime.

T o store a new position, repeat Steps 1 and 2 to readjust
the seat. The remote keyless entry transmitter need not
be programmed unless it needs to correspond to the
other numbered memory button.

1-4

T o set the seat for a second driver, follow the previous
steps, but use the other numbered button and the other
keyless entry transmitter.

If there is a third driver, use the seat adjuster switch to
adjust the seat.

Pressing any of the seat adjuster switches, the SET
button or the desired memory button twice will cause
the seat to stop moving.

If you push the numbered button to adjust the seat
and start the vehicle while the seat is still adjusting,
adjustment will pause while the ignition is in START.
Adjustment will resume after the ignition is in RUN.

Heated Front Seats (Option)

If you have this feature,
the control is located on the
outboard side of the seat(s).
This feature will quickly
heat the lower cushion and
lower back of the driver’s
and front passenger’s seats
for added comfort.

Press the lower part of the switch to turn the heater on
low. Press the upper part of the switch to turn the heater
on high. Move the switch to the center position to turn
the heater off.

The passenger’s safety belt must be engaged for the
heated seat feature to work on the passenger’s seat.

1-5

Reclining Front Seatbacks

The vertical power seat control allows the seatback
to recline.

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.

1-6

Head Restraints

Rear Seats

Your vehicle has a folding rear seat which lets you fold
the seatbacks down for more cargo space.

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.

The rear seatback release handles are on the rear of the
seatbacks. Push back on the seatbacks as you pull up
on the handles. The head restraint will automatically fold
out of the way when the seatback is folded down.

To raise the seatbacks, lift up the seatbacks and push
until they lock in the upright position. Push and pull on
the seatbacks to check that the latches have locked in the
upright position. If they haven’t, see your dealer for service.

1-7

T o return the head restraints to the upright position,
reach behind the seats and pull the head restraint up
until it locks into position.

Push and pull on the head restraints to check that they
have locked in the upright position. If they haven’t,
see your dealer for service.

Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone

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

And it explains the air bag system.

CAUTION:

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

1-8

CAUTION:

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

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

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

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

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

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

1-9

Why Safety Belts Work

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

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

Put someone on it.

1-10

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 ...

1-11

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

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

1-12

Here Are Questions Many People Ask
About Safety Belts

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an

Q:

accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

-- and the Answers

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

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

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

to wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will

be in most of them in the future. But they are
supplemental systems only; so they work with
safety belts
system ever offered for sale has required the use of
safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air
bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most
protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions,
but especially in side and other collisions.

-- not instead of them. Every air bag

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

home, why should I wear safety belts?

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

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

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

Safety belts are for everyone.

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

1-13

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Adults

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

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

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

We’ll start with the driver position.

Driver Position

This part describes the driver’s restraint system.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to
wear it properly.

1. Close and lock the door.

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

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

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

1-14

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

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

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

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

1-15

Q: What’s wrong with this?

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

as much protection this way.

CAUTION:

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

1-16

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

CAUTION:

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

1-17

Q: What’s wrong with this?

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

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

CAUTION:

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

1-18

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

CAUTION:

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

1-19

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

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

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

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

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

1-20

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.

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

CAUTION:

Right Front Passenger Position

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

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

-- except for one thing.

Air Bag System

This part explains the air bag system.
Your vehicle has air bags

and another air bag for the right front passenger.
Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of

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

-- one air bag for the driver

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash
if you aren’t wearing your safety belt
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 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
crashes. And, for unrestrained occupants,
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
or not there’s an air bag for that person.

-- even if

-speed frontal

-- whether

1-21

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. Safety belts
help keep you in position before and during a crash.
Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags.
The driver should sit as far back as possible while
still maintaining control of the vehicle.

CAUTION:

Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any
air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured
or killed. Air bags plus lap
the best protection for adults, but not for young

-shoulder belts offer

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

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

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

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

1-22

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.

1-23

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
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 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 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.

-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate

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.

The air bag system is designed to work properly under
a wide range of conditions, including off
Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain.
As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off
Driving” in the Index for more tips on off

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.

-road usage.

-Road

-road driving.

1-24

How does an air bag restrain?

In moderate to severe frontal or near
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.

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
air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front
passenger’s bag -- will be hot for a short time.

-- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s

-frontal collisions,

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.

1-25

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 diagnostic module,
which records information about the air bag system.
The module records information about the readiness
of the system, when the system commands air bag
inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment.

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.

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.

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 service manual have information
about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system.
T o 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 wires wrapped with yellow
tape or 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.

1-26

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

Q: If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to

the front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags
from working properly?

A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is

attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic
structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the
air bags from working properly in a crash.

Q: Is there anything I might add to the front of

the vehicle that could keep the air bags from
working properly?

A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s

frame, bumper system, front end sheet metal or
height, they may keep the air bag system from
working properly. Also, the air bag system may not
work properly if you relocate any of the air bag
sensors. If you have any questions about this,
you should contact Customer Assistance before
you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and
addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step T wo
of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this
manual. See “Customer Satisfaction Procedure”
in the Index.

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

1-27

Lap-Shoulder Belt

The positions next to the windows have lap
belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

-shoulder

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.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way,

it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and
start again.

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.

1-28

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

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.

1-29

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.
The safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very

quickly out of the retractor.

CAUTION:

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

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

1-30

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults

Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide
added safety belt comfort for older children who have
outgrown booster seats and for small adults. When
installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide better
positions the belt away from the neck and head.

There is one guide for each outside passenger position
in the rear seat. T o provide added safety belt comfort
for children who have outgrown child restraints and for
smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on
the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide
and use the safety belt:

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

1-31

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

1-32

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

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

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

1-33

Center Rear Passenger Position

Lap Belt

When you sit in the center rear seating position,
you have a lap safety belt which has a retractor.

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

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

3. Feed the lap belt into the retractor to tighten it.

1-34

4. 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.

Children

Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes
infants and all other children. Neither the distance
traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes
the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact,
the law in every state in the United States and in every
Canadian province says children up to some age must
be restrained while in a vehicle.

Infants and Young Children

Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles,
they should have the protection provided by the
appropriate restraint. Young children should not use
the vehicle’s safety belts, unless there is no other choice.

1-35

CAUTION:

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

-- until a crash. During a crash a baby

will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it.

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h),
a 12

-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a

240

-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby

should be secured in an appropriate restraint.

1-36

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to,
any air bag when it inflates can be seriously
injured or killed. Air bags plus lap
offer outstanding protection for adults and older
children, but not for young children and infants.
Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air
bag system is designed for them. Young children
and infants need the protection that a child
restraint system can provide.

-shoulder belts

For most basic types of child restraints, there are
many different models available. When purchasing
a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in
a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a
label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle
safety standards.

The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that
come with the restraint state the weight and
height limitations for a particular child restraint.
In addition, there are many kinds of restraints
available for children with special needs.

CAUTION:

Q: What are the different types of add-on

child restraints?

A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased

by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic
types. Selection of a particular restraint should
take into consideration not only the child’s weight,
height and age but also whether or not the restraint
will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which
it will be used.

Newborn infants need complete support,
including support for the head and neck.
This is necessary because a newborn infant’s
neck is weak and its head weighs so much
compared with the rest of its body. In a crash,
an infant in a rear
restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed
across the strongest part of an infant’s body,
the back and shoulders. Infants always should
be secured in appropriate infant restraints.

-facing seat settles into the

1-37

CAUTION:

The body structure of a young child is quite
unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom
the safety belts are designed. A young child’s
hip bones are still so small that vehicle’s regular
safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones,
as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the
child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply
force on a body area that’s unprotected by any
bony structure. This alone could cause serious or
fatal injuries. Young children always should be
secured in appropriate child restraints.

Restraint Systems for Children

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

1-38

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

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

-shaped or shelf-like shields.

1-39

Q: How do child restraints work?

A: A child restraint system is any device designed for

use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position
children. A built
permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add
child restraint system is a portable one, which is
purchased by the vehicle’s owner.

-in child restraint system is a

-on

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

-back booster seats have a five-point

1-40

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

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

-like shield that swings up or to the side.

-on child restraints have

-on child restraint in the

-on child restraint’s harness

-point harness, has straps

-shaped shield has shoulder

- or armrest-type

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

Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may
find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a
booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in
your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within
the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury.
When securing an add
instructions that come with the restraint which may be
on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this
manual. The child restraint instructions are important,
so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy
from the manufacturer.

-on child restraint, refer to the

Where to Put the Restraint

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.
General Motors, therefore, recommends that child
restraints be secured in a rear seat outside position
including an infant riding in a rear
a child riding in a forward
child riding in a booster seat. Never put a rear
child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

-facing child seat and an older

-facing infant seat,

-facing

CAUTION:

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

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 outside position.

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

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

-facing child restraint would be

-- even when no child is in it.

1-41

Top Strap

Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.”
It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision.
For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored
to the vehicle.

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

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

Anchor brackets for the rear outside seat positions are
located on the floor in the cargo area of your vehicle.
If your vehicle is equipped with the rear convenience
system, then you will have to remove the anchor bracket
plugs before you can access the anchor brackets.

1-42

Pull up on the edges of the anchor bracket plugs to
remove them. See “Rear Convenience System” in
the Index for more information. Don’t use the rear
set of tie
tie

-down brackets near the liftgate or the center

-down near the rear seats.

Anchor the top strap to one of these anchor points.
Be sure to use an anchor point located on the same
side of the vehicle as the seating position where the
child restraint will be placed.

Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready
to secure the child restraint itself. Tighten the top strap
when and as the child restraint manufacturer’s
instructions say.

1-43

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.

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.

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

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

1-44

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

5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the
retractor 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.

T o remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt
will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult
or larger child passenger.

1-45

Center Seat Position

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

Don’t use child restraints in this position. The restraints
won’t work properly.

1-46

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

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

CAUTION:

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

-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

-facing child restraint would be

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

You’ll be using the lap
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

2. Put the restraint on the seat.

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

-facing child restraint in the right front seat.

-shoulder belt. See the earlier

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

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

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

-facing child restraint.

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.

1-47

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

1-48

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

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

T o remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s
safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt
will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult
or larger child passenger.

Older Children

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

If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a
window so the child can wear a lap
get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

-shoulder belt and

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

A: If possible, an older child should wear a

lap

-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint

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

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they
are restrained in the rear seat.

In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike
other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown
out of the vehicle. Older children need to use safety
belts properly.

1-49

CAUTION:

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

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

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

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

A: 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 a seat that has a lap belt,
if your vehicle has one.

1-50

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.

1-51

Safety Belt Extender

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

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

Checking Your Restraint Systems

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

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

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

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts?
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 door opening.

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 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.

1-52

Section 2 Features and Controls

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

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

-2 Windows

2
2

-4 Keys

-6 Door Locks

2
2

-10 Keyless Entry System

-13 Liftgate/Liftglass

2
2

-14 Theft

2

-16 Content Theft-Deterrent

-17 Passlock

2
2-18 New Vehicle “Break-In”

-18 Ignition Positions

2
2

-20 Starting Your Engine

2

-21 Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

-22 Automatic Transmission Operation

2
2

-25 Parking Brake

-26 Shifting Into PARK (P)

2
2

-28 Shifting Out of PARK (P)

-29 Parking Over Things That Burn

2
2

-29 Engine Exhaust

2

-30 Running Your Engine While You’re Parked

R

2-

2

-31 Locking Rear Axle

2

-31 All-Wheel Drive

-31 Horn

2
2

-31 Tilt Wheel

-32 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

2
2

-38 Exterior Lamps

2

-41 Interior Lamps

-43 Mirrors

2
2

-46 Storage Compartments

-54 Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter

2
2

-55 Accessory Power Outlets

2

-55 OnStar

-59 Sunroof (If Equipped)

2
2

-60 HomeLink

-64 The Instrument Panel--Your

2
2-65 Instrument Panel Cluster

2

-67 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

R

System (If Equipped)

R

Transmitter

Information System

2-1

Windows

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows
closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by
the extreme heat and can suffer permanent
injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never
leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the
windows closed in warm or hot weather.

2-2

Power Windows

The controls for the power windows are located on the
armrest on each of the side doors. With power windows,
the switches operate the windows when the ignition is
in RUN, ACCESSORY or when Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) is active. (See “Retained Accessory
Power” in the Index.) The driver’s door has a switch
for the passenger windows as well.

Press the side of the switch with the down arrow to lower
a window. Press the side of the switch with the up arrow
to raise a window.

Express

The driver’s window has an express
allows you to lower it without holding the window
switch. Press the driver’s window switch down briefly
to activate the express
switch to open the window slightly. The express
feature can be interrupted at any time by pressing the up
arrow end of the switch.

Lockout Switch

Your vehicle has a lockout feature to prevent passengers
from operating the power windows. Press LOCK to
activate this feature. Press NORM and the windows
return to normal operation.

-Down Window

-down feature that

-down feature. Lightly tap the

-down

2-3

Keys

CAUTION:

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

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

2-4

This vehicle has one
double

-sided key for the

ignition, liftgate and door
locks. It will fit with either
side up.

When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer provides
the owner with a pair of identical keys and a key
code number.

The key code number tells your dealer or a qualified
locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep this number in
a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have
new ones made easily using this number. Your selling
dealer should also have this number.

NOTICE:

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

If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, contact
Roadside Assistance for help. See “Roadside
Assistance” in the Index for more information.

2-5

Door Locks

CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

D

Passengers -- especially children -- can
easily open the doors and fall out of a
moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the
handle won’t open it. You increase the
chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in
a crash if the doors aren’t locked. So, wear
safety belts properly and lock the doors
whenever you drive.

D

Young children who get into unlocked
vehicles may be unable to get out. A child
can be overcome by extreme heat and can
suffer permanent injuries or even death
from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle
whenever you leave it.

D

Outsiders can easily enter through an
unlocked door when you slow down or stop
your vehicle. Locking your doors can help
prevent this from happening.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle:

D

You can use the remote keyless entry system.

D

You can use the power door locks switches to lock or
unlock the doors.

D

You can use the key to unlock the door from
the outside.

D

You can manually slide the levers on the inside doors
down or up to lock/unlock the doors from the inside.

T o manually unlock a door
from the inside, slide the
lever on the door up.
You will see a shaded
area on the lever when
the door is unlocked.

2-6

Power Door Locks

The power door lock switches are located on the driver’s
and passenger’s armrests. Remove the ignition key and
press LOCK to lock all the doors at once. T o unlock
the doors, press the raised area to the right of the
key symbol.

The manual door lock/unlock lever on each rear door
works only that door’s lock.

Programmable Automatic Door Locks

Your vehicle is equipped with an auto lock/unlock
feature which enables you to program your vehicle’s
power door locks.

The following is the list of available programming options:

D

All doors lock/Driver’s door unlocks only: Press
the lock side of the power lock switch on the door
panel once and then the unlock side once. This
option is not available on most vehicles not equipped
with keyless entry.

D

All doors lock/All doors unlock: Press the lock side
of the power lock switch on the door panel once, and
then press the unlock side twice.

D

All doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press
the lock side of the power lock switch on the door
panel once, and then press the unlock side of the
switch three times.

D

No doors lock/None of the doors unlock: Press
the lock side of the power lock switch on the door
panel twice. This turns off the automatic lock feature
(this is the factory setting).

2-7

Your vehicle left the factory to have no doors lock and
none of the doors unlock. You can set the automatic
door lock feature to lock all the doors when the vehicle
speed is greater than 15 mph (24 km/h) for two seconds,
and then unlock the doors you select once the key is
removed from the ignition. The following instructions
detail how to program your door locks.

T o enter the program mode you need to do
the following:

1. Begin with the ignition in OFF. Then pull the turn
signal/multifunction lever all the way toward you
and hold it there while you perform the next step.

2. Turn the key to RUN and OFF twice. Then, with the
key in OFF, release the turn signal/multifunction
lever. Once you do this, you will hear the lock switch
lock and unlock.

3. You are now ready to program the automatic door
locks. Select one of the four programming options
listed above, and follow the instructions. You will
have 30 seconds to begin programming. If you exceed
the 30 second limit, the locks will automatically lock
and unlock to indicate that you have left the program
mode. If this occurs, repeat the procedure beginning
with Step 1.

You can exit the program mode any time by turning
the ignition to RUN (the locks will automatically
lock and unlock to indicate that you are leaving the
program mode). If the lock/unlock switches are not
pressed while in the programming mode, the current
auto lock/unlock setting will not be modified.

See your dealer for more information.

2-8

Rear Door Security Lock

With this feature, you can
lock the rear doors so they
can’t be opened from the
inside by passengers.
T o use one of these locks:

1. Open one of the rear doors.

2. You will find a security lock lever located on the
inside edge of the rear door. Move the lever up to
engage the safety lock. Move the lever down to
disengage the safety lock.

3. Close the door.

4. Do the same thing to the other rear door.

The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from
the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to
open the rear door when the security lock is on, unlock
the door and open the door from the outside.

Lockout Prevention

This feature stops the power door locks from locking
when the key is in the ignition and a door is open, to
help protect you from locking your key in the vehicle.

If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open
and the key is in the ignition, all the doors will lock, and
the driver’s door will unlock.

Leaving Your Vehicle

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

2-9

Keyless Entry System

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

Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency
subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
Rules and with Industry Canada.

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

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

-210 of Industry Canada.

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

At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is
normal for any remote keyless entry 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 the distance. You may be too far from your
vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy
or snowy weather.

D

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

D

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

D

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

2-10

Operation

UNLOCK: When you press UNLOCK, the driver’s

door will unlock automatically, the parking lamps will
flash and the interior lights will go on. Pressing this
button once also unlocks the rear liftglass. If you press
UNLOCK again within three seconds, the remaining
doors, including the liftgate, will unlock, the parking
lamps will flash and the interior lights will go on.

LOCK: Press LOCK to lock all the doors and the
liftgate. Press LOCK again within three seconds and
the horn will chirp.

REAR: Press the REAR button twice within three
seconds to release the liftglass. The parking lamps will
flash and the interior lights will go on. The transmission
must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).

Remote Panic Alarm

When the button with the horn symbol on the keyless
entry transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound and the
headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to 30 seconds.
This can be turned off by pressing the horn button again,
waiting for 30 seconds, or starting the vehicle.

Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle

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

2-11

Battery Replacement

Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless
entry 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.

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.

T o replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter:

1. Insert a dime in the slot between the covers of the
transmitter housing near the key ring hole. Remove
the bottom by twisting the dime.

2. Remove and replace the battery with a three-volt
CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up.

3. Align the covers and snap them together.

4. Resynchronize the transmitter.

5. Check the operation of the transmitter.

2-12

Resynchronization

Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security
method used by this system. The transmitter does not
send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver
will not respond to a signal it has been sent previously.
This prevents anyone from recording and playing back
the signal from the transmitter.

T o resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your
vehicle and press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK
buttons on the transmitter at the same time for seven
seconds. The door locks should cycle to confirm
synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your
dealer for service.

Liftgate/Liftglass

CAUTION:

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

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 OUTSIDE AIR. 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.

2-13

Liftgate Release

You may use the keyless entry system or your power
door locks to release the liftgate or liftglass.

The liftglass can be opened
using the pushbutton on the
liftgate after the driver’s
door has been opened
using either the power
lock system or the remote
keyless entry system.

T o open the entire liftgate, unlock the doors using
either the power door lock system or the remote keyless
entry system and lift the handle located in the center of
the liftgate.

Remote Liftglass Release

This button is located to
the right of the steering
wheel on the instrument
panel. It allows you to
release the liftglass from
inside the vehicle.

Your shift lever must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
for the release to work.

Theft

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

-deterrent

2-14

Key in the Ignition

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

When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door,
you’ll hear a tone 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 transmission. Also remember to lock
the doors.

-- so

Parking at Night

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

Parking Lots

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

D

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

D

If your vehicle has a remote keyless entry system,
take the transmitter with you.

D

Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

D

Then take the door key with you.

2-15

Content Theft-Deterrent

Your vehicle is equipped with a content theft-deterrent
alarm system.

With this system, the
SECURITY light will flash
as you open the door
(if your ignition is off).

This light reminds you to activate the theft
system. Here’ s how to do it:

1. Lock the door with the power door lock switch
(with the door open), or the remote keyless entry
transmitter (door can be open or closed). The
SECURITY light should come on and stay on.

2. The SECURITY light should go off after
approximately 30 seconds. The alarm is not armed
until the SECURITY light goes off.

If a door is opened without the key or the remote keyless
entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. Your vehicle’s
headlamps will flash and the horn will sound for
110 seconds, then will turn off to save the battery power.

-deterrent

Remember, the theft
you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door
lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock
switch (with the door open), or with the remote keyless
entry transmitter (door can be open or closed).
You should also remember that you can start your
vehicle with the correct ignition key if the alarm has
been set off.

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

D

If you don’t want to activate the theft
system, the vehicle should be locked with the door
key after the doors are closed.

D

Always unlock a door with a key, or use the remote
keyless entry transmitter. Unlocking a door any other
way will set off the alarm.

If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door
with the key. You can also turn off the alarm by pressing
UNLOCK on the remote keyless transmitter. The alarm
won’t stop if you try to unlock a door any other way.

-deterrent system won’t activate if

-deterrent

2-16

Testing the Alarm

The alarm can be tested by following these steps:

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

2. Activate the system by locking the doors with the
power door lock switch (with the door open), or with
the remote keyless entry transmitter (door can be
open or closed).

3. 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 headlamps flash, check to see if the horn
works. The horn fuse may be blown. T o replace the fuse,
see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.

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

Passlock

Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock
theft

-deterrent system.

Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. Passlock
enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a
valid key . If a correct key is not used or the ignition lock
cylinder is tampered with, fuel is disabled.

During normal operation, the SECURITY light will go off
approximately five seconds after the key is turned to RUN.

If the engine stalls and the SECURITY light flashes,
wait about 10 minutes until the light stops flashing
before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release
the key from START as soon as the engine starts.

If the engine does not start after three tries, the vehicle
needs service.

If the engine is running and the SECURITY light comes
on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the
engine off. However, your Passlock system is not working
properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle
is not protected by Passlock at this time. You may also
want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers”
in the Index). See your dealer for service.

In an emergency , call the Roadside Assistance Center.
See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index.

R

2-17

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate
“break
run if you follow these guidelines:

D

D

D

D

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

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or
less for the first 500 miles (805 km).
Don’t drive at any one speed
slow

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

Don’t make full
Avoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time
your new brake linings aren’t yet broken
in. Hard stops with new linings can mean
premature wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this breaking
time you get new brake linings.
Don’t tow a trailer during break
See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for
more information.

-throttle starts.

-in guideline every

-- fast or

Ignition Positions

Use the key to turn the ignition switch to
five different positions.

-in.

2-18

ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things

like the radio and the windshield wipers when the
engine is off. Push in the key and turn it toward you.
Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was
before you inserted the key.

NOTICE:

Don’t operate accessories in the ACCESSORY
position for long periods of time. Prolonged
operation of accessories in the ACCESSORY
position could drain your battery and prevent
you from starting your vehicle.

LOCK (B): This position locks your ignition, steering

wheel and transmission. It’s a theft
You will only be able to remove your key when the
ignition is turned to LOCK.

-deterrent feature.

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.

OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine

but still turn the steering wheel. Use OFF if you must
have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off
(for example, if your vehicle is being towed).

RUN (D): This is the position for driving.
START (E): This position starts your engine.

2-19

Retained Accessory Power (RAP)

Your vehicle is equipped with a Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain features
of your vehicle to continue to work up to 20 minutes
after the ignition key is turned to OFF.

Your radio, power windows, sunroof and overhead
console will work when the ignition key is in RUN or
ACCESSOR Y. Once the key is turned from RUN
to OFF, these features will continue to work for up
to 20 minutes or until a door is opened.

Starting Your Engine

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

-- that’s

NOTICE:

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

1. With your foot off 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 within 10 seconds, hold your key in
START for not more than 10 seconds. Then, push the
accelerator pedal all the way down for five more
seconds, unless it starts sooner.

2-20

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then
stops), wait 15 seconds and start over.

When the engine starts, let go of the key and the
accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:

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

Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

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

-up. Usually,

To Use the Engine Coolant Heater

1. Turn off the engine.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
The cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine
compartment, behind the underhood fuse block.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110

-volt AC outlet.

CAUTION:

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong
kind of extension cord could overheat and cause
a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the
cord into a properly grounded three
110

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

heavy

-duty three-prong extension cord rated for

at least 15 amps.

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

-prong

2-21

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.

PARK (P): This position locks your wheels. It’s the best
position to use when you start your engine because your
vehicle can’t move easily.

CAUTION:

Automatic Transmission Operation

There are several
different positions
for your shift lever.

2-22

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 “T owing a Trailer”
in the Index.

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission
shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when
the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of
PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever
button on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the
way into PA RK (P) as you maintain brake application.
Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish.
See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index.

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

-- press the

NOTICE:

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

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

connect with the wheels. T o restart when you’re already
moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

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:

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

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

2-23

DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you

need more power for passing, and you’re:

D

Going less than about 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.
DRIVE (D) should not be used when towing a trailer,

carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for
off

-road driving. Select THIRD (3) when operating the

vehicle under any of these conditions.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal

driving, however it offers more power but lower fuel
economy than DRIVE (D). You should use THIRD (3)
when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on
steep hills or winding roads or for off

SECOND (2): This position gives you more power
but lower fuel economy than 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.

You can also use SECOND (2) for starting your vehicle
from a stop on slippery road surfaces.

-road driving.

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) while the vehicle is
moving forward, the transmission won’t shift into first
gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE:

If your 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 transmission.

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

2-24

Parking Brake

T o set 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 brake
system warning light will come on.

T o release the parking brake, hold the regular brake
pedal down.

Pull the BRAKE RELEASE lever fully. It is located on
the bottom of the instrument panel on the driver’s side.

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 you must park on a hill,
see “T owing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows
what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

2-25

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.

2. Move the shift lever into PA RK (P) position like this:

D

Hold in the button on the lever.

D

Push the lever all the way toward the front of
the 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 key, your vehicle
is in PARK (P).

2-26

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

2-27

Torque Lock

If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your
transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the
vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in
the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the
shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.”
T o 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 transmission,
so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

Shifting Out of PARK (P)

Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock
control system. You have to fully apply your regular
brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the
ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transmission
Operation” in the Index.

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on
the shift lever
PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then press
the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the
gear you want.

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

1. Turn the key to OFF.

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. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as possible.

-- push the shift lever all the way into

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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
ever you 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
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.

-- with

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’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in
the Index.

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Locking Rear Axle

Your locking rear axle can give you additional traction
on snow , mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a
standard axle most of the time, but when one of the
rear wheels has no traction and the other does, this
feature will allow the wheel with traction to move
the vehicle.

All-Wheel Drive

There is no lever or switch to engage or disengage the
front axle. It is fully automatic and adjusts as needed for
road conditions. Your vehicle has an active transfer case
allowing two
transfer case will shift automatically into all
on slippery surfaces. You may feel an extra shift when
the all-wheel drive engages.

-wheel-drive operation on dry roads. The

-wheel drive

Horn

T o sound the horn, press the center pad on the
steering wheel.

Tilt Wheel

You should adjust the
steering wheel before
you drive. The tilt lever
is located on the driver’s
side of the steering column,
under the turn signal lever.

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

T o 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.

Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.

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Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

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

D

Turn and Lane Change Signals

D

Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer

D

Flash

-to-Pass

D

Windshield Wipers

D

Windshield Washer

D

Cruise Control

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 cluster will flash in
the direction of the turn or
lane change.

T o 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 flash
more quickly than normal, 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.

2-32

If you have a trailer towing option with added wiring for
the trailer lamps, a different turn signal flasher is used.
With this flasher installed, the signal indicator will flash
even if a turn signal bulb is burned out. Check the front
and rear turn signal lamps regularly to make sure they
are working.

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 at each flash of the turn
signal. T o turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever
to the center.

Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer

T o change the headlamps from low to high beam or high
to low beam, pull the multifunction lever all the way
toward you. Then release it.

When the high beams are
on, this indicator light on
the instrument panel cluster
will also be on.

Flash-to-Pass Feature

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 in the automatic position.

T o use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, but not
so far that you hear a click.

If your headlamps are in the automatic position or on
low beam, your high
They’ll stay on as long as you hold the lever toward
you. The high
cluster will come on. Release the lever to return to
normal operation.

-beam headlamps will turn on.

-beam indicator on the instrument panel

Windshield Wipers

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band
with the wiper symbol on it.

For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold
it there until the wipers start. Then let go. The wipers
will stop after one wipe. If you want more wipes, hold
the band on MIST longer.

You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay
between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or
snow . Turn the band to choose the delay time. The
closer to LO, the shorter the delay.

2-33

For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away
from you to LO. For high
band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, move the
band to OFF.

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
worn or damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.

-speed wiping, turn the

Windshield Washer

There’s a paddle marked with the windshield washer
symbol on the top of the multifunction lever. To spray
washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. The
wipers will clear the window and then either stop or
return to your preset speed.

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.

Rear Window W asher/Wiper

This switch is located to the
right of the steering wheel
on the instrument panel.

T o turn the rear wiper on, slide the switch to either
LO or HI. For delayed wiping, slide the switch to LO.
For steady wiping, slide the switch to HI. T o turn the
wiper off, slide the switch to OFF.

T o wash the window, press the wash button located
on the switch. The switch must be in either the HI or
LO position.

The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle
as the windshield washer. However, the rear window
washer will run out of fluid before the windshield
washer. If you can wash your windshield but not
your rear window, check your fluid level.

2-34

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 can
really help on long trips.
Cruise control does not
work at speeds below about
25 mph (40 km/h).

If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will shut 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.

2-35