Porsche 928 1993 User Manual
WKD928 021 93 625 12/91
© Dr. Ing. h. c. F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft
All rights reserved. Printed in Germany
Dear Owner,
judging by the car you have chosen,
you are a motorist of a special
breed, and you are probably no nov-
ice when it comes to automobiles.
Remember however that, as with
any vehicle, you should take time to
familiarize yourself with your
Porsche and its performance characteristics. Always drive within your
own unique capabilities as a driver
and your level of experience with
your Porsche. Ensure that anyone
else driving your Porsche does the
same. To prevent or minimize injury,
always use your safety belts. Never
consume alcohol or drugs before or
while driving.
This Owner's Manual contains a
host of useful information. Please
read this manual before you drive
your new Porsche. Acquaint yourself
with your car's features and know
how to operate your Porsche more
safely. The better you know your
Porsche, the more pleasure you will
experience driving your new car.
A separate Maintenance Booklet
explains how you can keep your
Porsche in top driving condition by
having it serviced regularly. A separate Warranty Booklet contains
detailed information about the
warranties covering your Porsche.
For U.S. only:
If you believe that your vehicle has a
defect which could cause a crash or
could cause injury or death, you
should immediately inform the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to
notifying Porsche Cars North America.
If NHTSA receives similar complains, it may open an investigation,
and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may
order a recall and remedy campaign.
However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or Porsche
Cars North America.
To contact NHTSA, you may either
call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free
at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
Washington, D.C. area) or write to:
NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590.
You can also obtain other informa-
2
tion about motor vehicle safety from
the Hotline.
Your car has thousands of parts and
components which have been designed and manufactured in accordance with Porsche's high standards
of engineering quality and safety.
Any alteration of the car may negate or interfere with those safety
features built into the car. Your
Porsche is intended to be used in a
safe manner in light of the local laws
and driving conditions faces by you,
and in accordance with the instructions provided in this Manual. Do
not misuse your Porsche by ignoring those laws and driving
conditions, or by ignoring the instructions in this manual. Any alteration or misuse of the car can
lead to accidents and severe or
fatal personal injuries.
We wish you many miles of safe and
pleasurable driving in your Porsche.
Your car may have all or some of
the components described in this
manual. Should you have difficulty
understanding any of the explanations of features or equipment installed in your car, your authorized
Porsche dealer will be glad to assist
you. Also check with your dealer on
other available options or equipment.
Text, illustrations and specifications
in this manual are based on the information available at the time of
printing.
It has always been Porsche's policy
to continuously improve its products.
Porsche, therefore, reserves the
right to make changes in design and
specifications, and to make additions
or improvements in its product,
without incurring any obligation to install them on products previously
manufactured.
Important
For your own protection and longer
service life of your car, please heed
all operating instructions and
special warnings. Ignoring them
could result in serious mechanical
failure or even physical injury.
Do not alter your Porsche. Any alteration could create dangerous conditions or defeat safety engineering
features built into your car.
Do not misuse your Porsche. Use it
safely, and consistently with the law,
the driving conditions, and the instructions in this manual.
Alteration or misuse of your
Porsche could cause accidents
and severe or fatal personal injuries.
Note to owners
In Canada, this manual is also available in French. To obtain a copy
contact your dealer or write to:
Note aux proprietaires
Au Canada on peut se procurer un
exemplaire de ce Manuel en frangais
aupres du concessionnaire ou du:
Volkswagen Canada Inc.
Porsche Customer Assistance
Assistance ä la Clientele Porsche
1940 Eglinton Ave. East
Scarborough
Ontario M1L2M2
3
Fuel octane rating:
Your engine is designed to provide optimum performance and fuel economy using unleaded premium
fuel with an octane rating of 98 RON (93 CLC or AKI). Porsche therefore recommends the use of these
fuels in your vehicle.
Porsche also recognizes that these fuels may not always be available. Be assured that your vehicle
will operate properly on unleaded premium fuels with octane numbers of at least 95 RON (90 CLC or AKI),
since the engine's "Electronic Octane ™ knock control" will adapt the ignition timing, if necessary.
Tire Pressures
(see "Tire pressure warning system")
Increase the tire pressures when the "Tirepressure loss" message
appears in the information-system display.
When replacing tires, always follow the instructions in the section on
"Tires and tire care."
Before Driving Off, Running In, Controls
Maintenance, Car Care
Practical Tips, Emergency Service
Vehicle Identification, Technical Data
Index
Pocket for Additional Information
Before Driving Off, Running In, Controls
Before going on a trip 8
In the driver's seat 9
Break-in hints 10
Engine exhaust 10
Keys 12-13
Theft protection 14
Anti-theft alarm 14
Doors 14
Central door locking 15
Interior lights 16
Power windows 17
Seats 18-21
Mirrors 22
Safety belts 23-24
Child restraint systems 25
Air bag system 26-27
Brakes 28-31
Limited slip differential 32
Clutch 33
Starting 34-35
Controls, Instruments, Warning lights 36-48
Automatic climate control 49-52
Power sunroof 54-55
Engine hood, hatchback 57-58
Transmission 59-62
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Dear Porsche-Owner Before going on a trip...
A lot has gone into the manufacture of your
Porsche, including advanced engineering,
techniques, rigid quality control and demanding inspections. These engineering and safety
features will be enhanced by you...
the safe driver...
who knows his car and all controls,
who maintains his vehicle properly,
who uses his driving skills wisely, and always
drives within his own capabilities and his level
of familiarity with his vehicle.
First things first
• Turn the engine off before you attempt any
checks or repairs of the vehicle.
• Be sure tires are inflated correctly. Check
tires for damage and tire wear.
• See that wheel bolts are properly tightened
and not loose or missing.
• Check engine oil level, add if necessary.
Make it a habit to have engine oil checked
with every fuel filling.
• Check coolant level to assure sufficient engine cooling.
• Be sure you have a well charged battery.
• Check brake fluid level. If too low, have
brake system checked.
• Replenish windshield washer fluid.
• Check if front hood is latched safely.
• Replace worn or cracked wiper blades.
• See that all windows are clear and unobstructed.
• Keep air intake slots and area between engine hood and windshield free of snow and
ice, so that the heater and the windshield
wipers work properly.
• Check whether all light lenses are clean.
• Be sure all lights are working and headlights are aimed correctly.
• Check under vehicle for leaks.
• Be sure all luggage is stowed securely.
Emergency equipment
You will find helpful hints in this manual on
how to perform most of the checks listed on
the following pages. If in doubt, have these
checks performed by your authorized Porsche
dealer.
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It is good practice to carry emergency equip-
ment in your vehicle. Some of the things you
should have are: window scraper, snow
brush, container or bag of sand or salt, emergency light, small shovel, first-aid kit, etc.
In the driver's seat... On the road...
• Check operation of horn.
• Position seat for easy reach of controls.
• Adjust inside and outside rear view mirrors.
• Attach your safety belts.
• Check operation of foot and parking
brakes.
• Check all warning and indicator lights and
the information system display with ignition
on and engine stationary.
• NEVER leave car idling unattended.
• Lock doors from inside, especially with
children in the car.
• To prevent inadvertent opening of doors
from inside or outside, drive with locked
doors.
• Never drive after you have consumed alcohol.
• Always have your safety belt attached.
• Always drive defensively. Expect the unexpected.
• Use signals to indicate turns and lane
changes.
• Turn on headlights at dusk.
• Always keep a save distance from the vehicle in front of you, depending on traffic,
road and weather conditions.
• Reduce speed at night and during inclement weather.
• Observe speed limits and obey road signs.
• When tired, get well off the road, stop and
take a rest. Turn the engine off. Do not sit
in the vehicle with engine idling. See
WARNINGS on "Engine Exhaust.
• When parked, always see the parking
brake. Move the selector lever to "P (Automatic transmission) or move the gearshift
lever to reverse or first gear (Manual transmission). On hills also turn the wheels
toward the curb.
• When emergency repairs become necessary, move the vehicle well off the road.
Turn on emergency flasher and use other
warning devices to alert other motorists. Do
not park or operate the vehicle in areas
where the hot exhaust system may come in
contact with dry grass, brush, fuel spill or
other flammable material.
• Make it a habit to have the engine oil
checked with every fuel filling.
9
Break-in hints for the first
1.000 miles/1.600 kilometers
There are no specific break-in rules for your
Porsche. However, by taking a few precautions you can help extend the service life and
performance of your engine.
During the first 1.000 miles/1.600 km, all
working components of the engine adjust to
each other to a certain degree. Therefore:
Avoid full throttle starts and abrupt stops.
Change speeds frequently. Vary the throttle
load.
Do not exceed maximum engine speed of
5.000 rpm (revolutions per minute).
Do not run a cold engine at high rpm either in
Neutral or in gear.
Do not let the engine labor, especially when
driving uphill. Shift to the next proper gear in
time (use the most favorable rpm range).
There may be a slight stiffness in the steering, gearshifting or other controls during the
break-in period which will gradually disappear.
Never lug the engine in high gear at low
speeds. This rule applies all the time, not
just during the break-in period.
Breaking-in brake pads
Brake pads do not have maximum braking
efficiency when the car is new. Therefore,
more pedal force is necessary during the first
100 to 150 miles/150 to 250 km. This also
applies to replacement brake pads.
Breaking-in new tires
New tires do not have maximum traction.
They tend to be slippery. Break in new tires
by driving at moderate speeds during the first
60 to 120 miles/100 to 200 km, and longer
braking distances must be anticipated.
Engine oil consumption
During the break-in period oil consumption
may be slightly higher than normal.
As always rate of oil consumption depends on
the quality and viscosity of oil, the speed at
which the engine is operated, the climate,
road conditions as well as the amount of dilution and oxidation of the lubricant.
Engine exhaust
WARNING
• Engine exhaust is dangerous if inhaled.
• Never start or let the engine run in a
closed garage. Never sit in your car for
prolonged periods with the engine on and
the car not moving.
• Although exhaust fumes from the engine
have many components which you can
smell, they also contain carbon monoxide,
which is a colorless and odorless gas.
Carbon monoxide can be fatal if inhaled.
• If you smell gas fumes in the vehicle,
drive with the windows open but keep the
hatchback closed. Have the cause immediately located and corrected.
• Because of inherent hazards, we do not
recommend transporting objects larger
than those fitting safely into the luggage
compartment. Keep the hatchback closed
while driving to prevent poisonous exhaust gas from being drawn into the vehicle.
• Never carry additional fuel containers in
your vehicle. Such containers, full or partially empty, may leak, cause an explosion, or result in fire in case of a collision.
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1 Light switch
2 Turn signal/headlight dimmer flasher/
parking light switch lever
3 Horn
4 Windshield wiper and windshield/
headlight washer switch lever
5 Emergency flasher switch
6 Switches for power windows
7 Controls for power seat
8 Parking brake lever
9 Side view mirror adjuster
11
NEVER invite car theft!
An unlocked car with the key in the
ignition switch invites car theft.
A steering wheel lock and a gong
alarm are standard equipment in
your Porsche. The gong will sound if
you open the driver's door while the
key is still in the ignition lock. It is
your reminder to pull the key out of
the ignition lock and to lock the
doors.
WARNING
Always remove the ignition key,
especially if children are left unat-
tended in the vehicle. Unsupervised
use of any vehicle key may cause
serious personal injury.
NEVER leave your vehicle unat-
tended with the key in the ignition
lock. Take the key and lock the
doors.
a Key with built-in flashlight
b Flat key
c Rear glove compartment key
d Key for lockable wheel nuts
Keys
Three keys are supplied with the vehicle.
Each fits the ignition lock, door locks, hatch-
back lock, fuel filler cap lock and glove compartment lock.
There is one flat key which you can keep
in your purse or wallet, for instance, as an
"emergency key". If you remove the plastic
head of the flat key, you can clip on an illuminated plastic handle (available from your
Porsche dealer). Vehicles with a rear seat
glove compartment receive two additional
keys for the compartment lock.
WARNING
NEVER remove the key from the steering
lock while you are driving or as the car is
rolling to a stop. The steering column will
lock when you remove the key, and you will
not be able to steer the car. This may result
in a serious accident
Because of the symmetrical shape of the key
shaft, there is no "wrong" way of inserting the
key in the locks.
The new format of the keys makes unauthorized duplication of the keys virtually impossible. This means, however, that you yourself will not be able to get replacement keys
|
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cut, unless ordered from your authorized
Porsche dealer.
For the lockable wheel nuts, three identical
keys, are included. When taking the vehicle to
your Porsche dealer or to a workshop for
wheel or tire service, remember to leave one
key with the service attendant.
In case of loss, duplicate wheel look keys
cannot be furnished by your Porsche dealer.
Do not leave these keys in the vehicle. Keep
them in a safe place.
See "Lockable wheel nuts" for details.
NOTE: It is a good idea to also keep a record of your key numbers in your wallet
together with your license.
Key number
The key number of the ignition key is im-
pressed on a plastic tag which comes with the
keys. Detach this tag and keep it in a safe
place.
For your protection against theft:
• Record the key numbers and keep them in
a safe place, such as your wallet. Do not
keep them in the vehicle.
• If you should lose a key, provide your
Porsche dealer with the key number and
the vehicle identification number to obtain a
duplicate key.
Key light
Two of the keys have a built-in flashlight in
the key head. The beam from a small bulb in
the key head illuminates the lower part of the
key stem.
The flashlight is on as long as the contact
button is depressed.
The flashlight is powered by a 1.5 Volt button
battery. When the beam begins to fade, re-
place the battery, because an old battery
may leak and damage your clothes.
1. Use your finger nail or a small screw driver
to carefully lift the key handle cover.
2. Insert a new, commercial available battery
(1.5 V) in the contact button.
3. Assemble key top as shown in the figure.
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Theft protection
To protect your vehicle from theft, you should
always proceed as follows when leaving your
vehicle:
• Close windows and sunroof
• Remove ignition key
• Engage steering lock
• Lock the glove compartment
• Cover luggage
• Lock doors
• Lock petrol cap
• Radio
• Ignition
If an alarm contact is broken, the alarm horn
will sound for approx. 4 minutes. At the same
time, the interior lights and the hazard warn-
ing lights flash for approx. 4 minutes. When
the alarm is triggered, the LEDs are switched
to a double-flashing signal.
If the luggage-compartment lid is opened with
the key when the alarm has been armed, the
alarm status is automatically suspended until
the lid is closed.
Alarm system
The alarm system is armed when one of the
doors is locked with the key. Light-emitting
diodes (LEDs) in the locking buttons start
flashing immediately to indicate that the alarm
is armed.
If the LEDs do not flash when the car is
locked or change to a double-flashing signal
after 10 seconds, not all of the alarm contacts
have been closed.
The following components are monitored by
the alarm:
• Doors (central door locking system)
• Engine- and luggage-compartment lids
• Glove compartment
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When a door lock is unlocked, the alarm system is disarmed and the LEDs go out.
Emergency arming
If the central locking system is not working,
the alarm system can be armed by locking a
door three times in rapid succession. The
LEDs indicate this with a double-flashing signal.
Doors
To open doors from outside, pull the
recessed door handle.
To open doors from inside, pull recessed
handle "C" above armrest.
The armrests have a built-in storage compartment. To open, press knob in hand cutout
and tilt armrest outward. To close, tilt compartment toward door panel.
The courtesy light in the lower door panel
"D" will come on when a door or the hatchback is opened. The light can also be turned
on or off with the switch on the light housing.
Central door locking
With the central door locking system, both
doors can be locked and unlocked electrically.
The doors are locked when a key is turned in
either door lock.
When the doors are locked, the locking but-
tons (A) must be fully retracted.
The two doors can be locked individually
from inside by turning button (B) or by
pressing locking buttons (A). If one door is
unlocked by turning button (B), the second
door is automatically unlocked as well.
To prevent being accidentally locked out of
the vehicle, the central locking system can
only be actuated when the driver's door is
closed (even if the passenger door is still
open).
If the central locking system fails to work,
open and close the two doors individually.
The alarm system can be armed by closing a
door three times in rapid succession.
Central locking button
Both doors can be electrically locked by
pressing the central locking button in the center console. The lamp in the central locking
button remains lit while the system is activated.
To deactivate the system with the locking button, switch on the ignition.
15
Interior light in headlining
Interior lights
The interior lights, which are independent
from one another, come on, with the switch in
the appropriate position, as soon as a door is
unlocked or opened or the hatchback is
opened.
Footwell light in lower part of door trim
The interior lights have the following switch
positions:
a - light comes on only when a door or the
hatchback is opened
Luggage compartment light in hatchback
The interior light in the headlining and the lug-
gage compartment light are switched on and
off by tilting the lamp glass. The footwell lights
are operated by the switch integrated in the
light.
The interior lights go out after approx. 20 seconds after the doors are closed. The lights go
out immediately if the ignition is switched on
or the vehicle locked with the key.
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b - light switched off permanently
c - light switched on permanently
The light for the central fuse/relay board is
switched on via the door contact switch.
Door warning lights
The red spot lights in the rear doorjambs will
come on when a door or the hatchback is
opened.
Power windows
To open or close, depress the rocker switches
in the center console in front of the shift lever.
The switches can only be actuated one at a
time.
The power windows are operational when the
ignition is turned on.
When the ignition is turned off or the ignition
key removed, the power windows can be
operated until one door is opened.
Opening windows
Tapping the switches moves the windows in
stages to the desired position.
Pressing the switches for longer than 0.5
seconds automatically opens the windows
fully. The movement of the windows can be
stopped in any position by tapping the switch
again.
Closing windows
To close the windows, the switch must be
held down until the windows have reached
the desired position.
Door lock contact
If the key is held in the locking position when
locking a door, the sunroof and the door win-
dows will close in succession automatically.
WARNING
Do not put anything on or near the windows
that may interfere with the driver's vision.
Remove the ignition key to shut off power to
the window switches when the vehicle is not
attended by a responsible person.
Remember, power is still supplied to the
window switches until one door is opened.
17
Front seat adjustments
The correct seating position is all-important
for safe and fatigue-free driving. In order to
satisfy individual requirements, the seat has
infinitely variable adjustment.
We recommend the following procedure for
finding the correct position for the driver's
seat:
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1. Operate longitudinal adjustment until your
leg is fully stretched with the clutch pedal
depressed while your foot is bent.
2. Adjust desired fore/aft height.
3. Clasp upper portion of steering wheel.
Then adjust backrest inclination so that
both shoulders remain in contact with the
backrest even with your arms fully
stretched.
4. If necessary, correct the longitudinal ad-
justment.
Steering wheel adjustment
For maximum legroom and unobstructed view
of the instruments, the height of the steering
wheel, together with the instrument cluster
unit, can be adjusted.
Release locking lever under instrument cluster
for desired positioning (arrow), then lock securely.
1 2 Longitudinal adjustment
3 4 Height adjustment, front
5 6 Backrest adjustment
7 8 Height adjustment, rear
A Seat heating system
Β Lumbar support
Front seats
Two multifunction switches control the electric motors for longitudinal adjustment, seat
height and angle of backrest tilt.
Lumbar support (Β)
The backrest support can be regulated vertically and horizontally to any position to
guarantee a relaxed seated posture and provide individual lumbar support.
Lumbar support horizontal
Lumbar support vertical
Seat heating system (A)
The heating system in the seat cushion and
backrest is switched on and off by pressing
the rocker switch.
Press upper half of switch heating on
Press lower half of switch heating off
Heating temperature is controlled with the aid
of the knurled knob set in the switch; the
temperature is held constant until the seat
heating or the ignition is switched off.
Turn knurled knob up to increase temperature.
Turn knurled knob down to reduce temperature.
Manual operation
Should the electrical seat adjustment fail,
you can use the hexagon socketscrew in the
toolkit for longitudinal seat adjustment by
turning the servomotor below the front of the
seat.
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Seat position memory
The seat position memory can store up to
three different sitting positions. Each position
stored in the memory comprises longitudinal
adjustment, seat height, backrest angle, position and size of lumbar support and the position of the outside mirrors. The positions can
be adjusted, stored or called up regardless of
whether the engine is on or off.
Selecting a position
Adjust the seat and the two outside mirrors to
the desired position by operating the switches
for seat and mirror adjustment.
Storing a position
To store a position in the memory, press the
memory button (arrowed) and the appropriate
position button (button 1, 2 or 3). The memory
button must be pressed before the position
button.
Calling up a position
To set the seat to the position stored in the
memory, the appropriate position button must
be depressed until the seat reaches its final
position. The procedure is curtailed as
soon as the button is released. The buttons
are illuminated for ease location.
Once the seat reaches its end position the
mirrors are set automatically to the positions
stored in the memory.
The seat switches always take priority over
automatic adjustment. If a seat switch is
operated, automatic adjustment is immediately interrupted.
Pilot lamp
A red pilot lamp is set in the memory button.
If adjustment is initiated, the pilot lamp lights
up until the adjustment is completed. If the
procedure is interrupted, the lamp goes out
approx. 60 seconds after the ignition is
switched off.
20
In order to adjust the backrest, pull the inside locking lever at the front of the seat upwards, set seat to desired position and release the lever.
When there is no load on the backrest, it will
always be pushed forwards by spring force
when the lever is pulled.
WARNING
Front seat passengers should not ride in a
moving vehicle with the backrest reclined.
Safety belts only offer protection when the
backrest is upright and the belts are prop-
erly positioned on the body. Improperly positioned safety belts can cause serious personal injury in an accident.
Sports seat
Longitudinal adjustment and backrest adjustment are carried out manually on sports
seats.
To move the seat backwards and forwards,
pull the outside locking lever at the front of
the seat upwards, move seat into desired
position, release lever and ensure that the
seat engages securely.
WARNING
Never unlock the driver's seat while the vehicle is in motion: the seat may move suddenly, causing you to loose control over the
vehicle.
Backrest release
The backrest can be folded forward for easy
access to the rear seats. To release, pull the
lever on the side of the backrest up (arrow)
and, at the same time, tilt the backrest forward. When the backrest is tilted back, the
lock will engage automatically.
WARNING
For driver and passenger protection, back-
rest locks must be engaged at all times
while the vehicle is in motion.
Rear seats
The backrests of the rear seats can be tilted
forward to provide additional luggage space.
To release backrest, pull the lever on side of
the backrest up and, at the same time, tilt the
backrest forward.
21
Heated outside mirrors with remote control
When the rear window defogger/defroster is
switched on, the outside mirrors are also
heated electrically. The outside mirrors are
adjustable from inside of the vehicle by a four
direction switch and a rocker switch located
on the left door next to the side window vents
in the armrest. The rocker switch selects
either the left or right mirror for adjustment.
Press the rocker switch into the appropriate
position. Then the four direction switch will
adjust the selected mirror in any of the four
directions.
The mirror housing is hinged and can be
folded flat against the car in either direction to
prevent damage in tight parking spots.
Rear view mirrors
Adjust the outside and inside mirrors
before driving. It is important for safe driving that you have good vision to the rear.
22
Inside day-night mirror
You can adjust the day-night mirror from clear
daylight visibility to non-glare visibility at night,
by moving the lever at the bottom of the mirror forward or rearward.
Do not put decals or other signs on the
windows that may interfere with the
driver's vision.
If necessary, the outside mirrors can also be
adjusted manually.
Safety belts
WARNING
Failure to follow safety belt instructions may
result in serious personal injury.
Instructions
• For your and your passengers' protection, use safety belts at all times while
the vehicle is in motion. Use appropriate
child restraint systems for all small
children.
• Safety belts must be properly positioned
on the body. Improperly positioned
safety belts can cause serious personal
injury in case of an accident.
• For maximum effectiveness, the lap belt
should be worn low across the hips.
• Belts should not be worn twisted.
• Do not wear belts over rigid or breakable objects in or on your clothing, such
as eye glasses, pens, keys, etc. as these
may cause injury.
• Several layers of heavy clothing may interfere with proper positioning of belts.
• Belts must not rub against sharp objects.
• Keep belt buckles free of any obstruction that may prevent secure locking.
• Make sure that belt of the unoccupied
passenger seat is fully wound up on its
retractor so that the belt tongue is in its
stowed position.
• Belts that have been subjected to excessive stretch forces in an accident must
be replaced.
• If belts show damage to webbing, bindings, buckles or retractors, they should
be replaced.
• If belts do not work properly, see your
authorized Porsche dealer.
• Do not modify or disassemble the safety
belts in your vehicle.
• The belts must be kept clean as otherwise the retractors may not work properly (see also "Car care instructions").
• Never bleach or dye safety belts.
• Do not allow safety belts to retract until
they are completely dry.
23
Safety belt warning system
An audio-visuel warning system is interconnected with the driver's safety belt.
Every time the ignition is turned on, the seat
belt warning light in the instrument cluster
will come on for about 6 seconds as a reminder to buckle up. The gong will sound for
the duration of this 6 second period or go off
as soon as the driver has buckled up.
Inertia reel retractor
The combination lap/shoulder belt with inertia
reel locking mechanism adjusts automatically
to your size and movements as long as the
pull on the belt is slow.
Rapid deceleration during hard braking or a
collision locks the belt. The belt will also lock
when you drive up or down a steep hill or in a
sharp curve otherwise the shoulder belt will
not inhibit your upper body movement.
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• To fasten, grasp belt and pull belt in continuous slow motion across your chest and
lap.
• Insert belt tongue into buckle on inboard
side of seat. Push down until it securely
locks with an audible click. Pull belt to
check.
• Pull shoulder section to make sure belt fits
snugly across the hips.
• Belts should fit snugly across the pelvis and
chest. Make sure any slack is wound on
the retractor.
• To unfasten belt, push in release button on
buckle. Belt tongue will spring out of
buckle.
• To release a locked belt, lean back to take
the body pressure off the belt.
• To store lap/shoulder belt, allow belt to
wind up on retractor as you guide latch to
its stowed position.
Child Restraint Systems
WARNING
Failure to follow these child restraint instructions may result in serious personal injury.
Instructions
• Porsche recommends that all infants
and children be restrained in child restraint systems at all times while the vehicle is in motion in accordance with applicable laws.
* The use of infant or child restraints is
required by law in all 50 states and the
Canadian provinces. The child restraint
system should be one that complies
with U. S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety
Standard 213 and should be secured by
a lap belt or the lap belt portion of a lapshoulder belt. A statement by the seat
manufacturer of compliance with this
standard can be found on the instruction label on the restraint and in the instruction manual provided with the restraint.
• When using an infant or child restraint
system be sure to follow all manufacturer's instructions on installation and
use.
* Infants and small children should never
be held on the lap, nor should they
share a seat belt with another occupant
while the vehicle is in motion.
• Children too big for child restraint systems should use regular seat belts. A
shoulder belt can be used providing it
does not cross the face or the neck of
the child.
• For maximum safety and protection, we
recommend that small children travel in
the rear seats.
• To reduce risk of injury from an inflating
airbag in an accident, Porsche strongly
recommends the following positioning:
Forward facing child restraint system:
Use in the rear seat or in the passenger
seat only in the rearmost adjusting posi-
tion.
Rearward facing child restraint system:
Only use in the passenger seat in the
rearmost adjusting position.
Child restraint anchorages
(Canada Models)
If your child restraint seat or seats require the
use of a tether strap you will want to use the
anchor points provided on the panel behind
the rear seats.
The right child restraint anchorage is shown in
the illustration (see arrow).
The hardware needed to attach the tether
strap comes with your Porsche. The hardware
can be moved to the other anchor point if required.
If a child restraint system is to be used, the
necessary upper anchorage fitting must first
be mounted on the respective anchor point.
Additional hexagon head bolts, spacers and
fittings are available from your Porsche
dealer.
To ensure proper installation the anchor fittings or fitting assemblies should be installed
or repositioned by your Porsche dealer.
WARNING
Child restraint anchorages are designed to
withstand only those loads imposed by correctly fitted child restraints. Under no circumstances are they to be used for adult seat
belts or harnesses.
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Air Bag System
The "Air Bag" in combination with the safety
belt makes up a passive safety system which
offers the driver and front seat passenger the
greatest known protection from injuries in
case of accident.
The air bag system is composed of the following 3 major groups:
• Air bag modules with gas generators and ignition unit
• Control electronics
• Collision sensors
In case of frontal collision greater than a certain severity, the collision sensors send a signal via the control electronics to the ignition
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mechanism. In the ignition process, a solid
propellant in the gas generator is combusted
in a fraction of a second. This combustion
generates the gas quantity and pressure necessary to fill the air bag.
The air bag is located behind the steering
wheel center pad on the driver's side, and on
the passenger side behind the padding above
the glove compartment. Due to the rapid deflation of the air bag after use, there is little
danger of obstructed vision. Likewise, the
noise of the inflation of the air bag generally
goes unnoticed because of the collision noise.
The air bag protects the face and upper body,
and at the same time dampens the forward
motion of the driver and passenger.
Range of Effectiveness
Even if your vehicle is equipped with an air
bag, the safety belt must be worn at all times
because the air bag system is only actuated
by frontal collisions with an impact of sufficient severity. See figure for range of effectiveness.
Below the actuation threshold of the air bag
system, and during types of collisions which
do not cause the actuation of the system, the
seat belts provide the primary protection to
the occupants when correctly worn. There-
fore, all persons within the vehicle must
always wear safety belts (in many states,
state law requires the use of safety belts).
See also chapter "Safety Belts".
Maintenance / Monitor Lights
The air bag system monitors the operational
readiness of the igniter, sensors, warning
lamp, and control electronics itself.
Any malfunctions which may arise are announced by the air bag warning light in the
instrument cluster. Upon activation of the vehicle ignition circuit, the air bag warning light
in the instrument cluster lights up for approximately 5 seconds and then goes out again,
indicating system readiness.
In the following cases you should immediately consult an authorized Porsche dealer
in order to assure the air bag system is
functioning properly:
• Illumination of the air bag warning light
during travel or repeated illumination longer
than 5 seconds after ignition circuit is
turned on.
• Illumination fails to light up during ignition
circuit activation.
A malfunction in the air bag system will be
indicated by the illumination of the air bag
warning light accompanied by the fault message in the information system display.
In order to ensure long-term functioning, the
air bag system must be inspected by an
authorized Porsche dealer after 4, 8 and 10
years from the date of manufacture shown on
the safety compliance sticker, and then every
2 years.
WARNING
• No changes must be made to the wiring
or components of the air bag system. Do
not add any additional coverings or stickers to the steering wheel or in the area of
the passenger side air bag. Doing so may
adversely affect the functioning of the air
bag system.
• Do not undertake any wiring for electrical
accessory equipment in the vicinity of the
air bag wiring harness. Doing so may disable the air bag system.
• The actuation of the air bag requires the
immediate inspection of the system and
replacement of some parts of the system.
See your authorized Porsche dealer.
• Defects should be repaired immediately.
See your authorized Porsche dealer.
• When disposing of a used air bag unit,
our safety instructions must be followed.
These instructions can be obtained at any
authorized Porsche dealer.
Further information on the air bag system can
be found on stickers in the glove compartment, on the windshield, as well as on all air
bag components.
Important:
If you sell your Porsche, notify the purchaser that the vehicle is equipped with an
air bag, and refer to him or her to the
chapter, "Air Bag System", in the owner's
manual (safety and disposal rules).
For special recommendations on the use
of child restraints, please refer to the
chapter on "Child Restraint Systems."
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To release the parking brake Brakes
Parking brake lever (arrows)
Parking brake force is mechanically trans-
ferred to the rear wheels by means of cables.
Use the parking brake only after the vehicle has come to a full stop.
To set the parking brake
Pull the lever all the way up (see arrow).
With the ignition on, the brake warning light
will come on if the lever is even slightly
raised. A firm pull upward is required to properly engage the parking brake.
Pull the lever slightly up as you depress the
release button. Keep the button depressed as
you lower the lever all the way down.
The parking brake light and the fault message
in the information system display will go out
after the engine is started and the parking
brake is fully released.
WARNING
• Release the parking brake fully. A partially
engaged brake will overheat the rear
brakes, reduce their effectiveness and
cause excessive wear.
• Always set the parking brake when parking your car by pulling all the way up on
the lever. Move the selector lever to "P"
(Automatic transmission) or move the
gearshift lever to reverse or first gear
(Manual transmission). On hills also turn
the wheels toward the curb.
• The parking brake light is not an indicator
that the parking brake is fully set; it is only
intended to be a warning to release the
parking brake before driving the car. If
brake is not fully set, the vehicle may roll
without control.
Functioning of brake system
Your Porsche is equipped with a power assisted hydraulic dual circuit brake system with
disc brakes at the front and at the rear. Both
circuits function independently.
In the unlikely event of hydraulic failure of
one circuit, push the brake pedal down
firmly and hold it in that position. A me-
chanical linkage activates the second circuit, and you will be able to bring the vehicle to a stop.
WARNING
Failure of one brake circuit will impair the
braking capability resulting in an increased
stopping distance.
If one brake circuit has failed, the other will
still operate, However, you will notice an increased pedal travel when you step on the
brake. Should you encounter such ex-
perience, bring your vehicle safely to a full
stop.
Avoid driving the vehicle and instead have
it towed to the nearest authorized Porsche
dealer.
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Brake pedal
WARNING
• The movement of the brake pedal must
never be obstructed by a floor mat or any
other object. In case one of the two brake
circuits fails, increased pedal travel is required to bring your vehicle to a full stop.
• Make sure that the size of your floor mat
does not hamper the movements of either
brake, clutch or accelerator pedals in any
way.
• Secure the floor mat against sliding into
positions that could interfere with the safe
operation of your vehicle.
• Do not "ride the brakes" by resting your
foot on the pedal when not intending to
brake. Overheating and premature wear
of the brakes will result.
• Before descending a steep grade, reduce
speed and shift transmission into a lower
gear or driving position to control speed.
Do not ride the brakes or hold pedal down
too long or too often. This could cause
the brakes to get hot and not function
properly.
Brake operation and brake warning light
Make it a habit to check the operation of your
brakes before driving.
The brake fluid warning light in the instrument
cluster comes on accompanied by the fault
message in the information system display to
indicate that the level in the brake fluid reservoir is too low.
With correctly adjusted brakes, and a correctly working brake system, the pedal travel
to the point of brake actuation should be 13/16" to 1-9/16" or 30 to 40 mm. Whenever
the brake pedal travel exceeds this distance,
have the brake system checked.
Keep in mind that the braking distance increases very rapidly as the speed increases.
At 60 mph or 100 km/h, for example, it is not
twice but four times longer than at 30 mph or
50 km/h. Tire traction is also less effective
when the roads are wet or slippery. Therefore, always maintain a safe distance from the
car in front of you.
Brake booster
The brake booster assists braking only
when the engine is running.
When the car is moving while the engine is
not running, or if the brake booster is defective, more pressure on the brake pedal is required to bring the car to a halt.
Moisture or road salt on brakes affects
braking.
WARNING
Driving through water may reduce the traction. Moisture on brakes from road water,
car wash, or coating of road salt may affect
braking efficiency. Cautiously apply brakes
to test them after being exposed to such
conditions. When the vehicle is driven on
salted roads for extended periods, the
brakes should be hosed down thoroughly
about every 2 weeks. An automatic carwash
facility cannot do this job properly. Brakes
will dry after a few cautious brake applications.
Brake wear
Our automobiles have excellent brakes, but
they are still subject to wear, depending on
how the brakes are used. Have the brake
system inspected at the intervals recommended in your Maintenance booklet.
New brake pads or linings
Brake pads or linings may not have the
highest possible braking efficiency when new.
Therefore, allow for longer braking distance
during the initial 100 to 150 miles or 150 to
250 kilometers of normal city driving if fewer
stops are realized.
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ABS brake system
(Antilock brake system)
The ABS system represents a major contribution to the enhancement of active safety in
your vehicle. This system prevents the wheels
from locking in a panic stop on almost all road
surfaces.
With ABS system in your vehicle, the following areas are enhanced:
Full steerability, vehicle remains steerable
under all braking forces.
Good directional control, no swerving
caused by locking of wheels under braking
conditions.
Excellent stopping distance, stopping distances are usually reduced because controlled braking is maximized.
Prevention of wheel lock up, no brake-in-
duced sliding and thus no localized tire wear
from emergency braking.
The crucial advantage of ABS system over a
conventional brake system is in the area of
maintaining directional control and maneuverability of the car in emergency situations, in-
cluding panic braking in turns.
WARNING
In spite of the improved handling afforded
by the ABS system, it still remains the responsibility of the driver to adapt the driving
style to the prevailing road and weather con-
ditions, as well as, obeying traffic laws. In
no case, should the higher degree of safety
offered by ABS be regarded as a justification for taking greater risks. Other vehicles
not equipped with the ABS system may not
be able to maintain control, especially on
wet or poor road surfaces and thus may be
more likely to impact you in the rear. To
minimize that risk, use your ABS system to
increase your ability to maneuver to avoid
dangerous situations and not merely to try
to stop in the shortest distance possible.
Driving with the ABS system
A wheel speed sensor is fitted to each of the
four wheels. If wheel slippage of either of the
front wheels or the rear wheels is sensed
during braking, the brake pressure is adjusted
automatically until the wheel no longer slips.
The brake pressure is regulated for each front
wheel individually and for both rear wheels together.
On a road surface which is slippery on only
one side, the rear wheel which is braking on
the slippery surface determines the brake
pressure which will be applied equally to both
rear wheels. This ensures that directional sta-
bility is maintained. However, if braking force
approaches the wheel locking-up point for all
wheels (panic braking) the ABS system will intervene in a way comparable with rapid rythmic braking. The proper operation of ABS is
perceived by the driver as a pulsating brake
pedal in conjunction with audible noise and
perhaps some vibration. The driver is thereby
warned to reduce vehicle speed appropriate
for the prevailing road conditions.
The functional readiness of all the main electrical components of the ABS is checked by
an electronic monitoring system both before
and while you drive. When the ignition is
switched on the ABS warning lamp lights up
and goes out again when the engine is
started, at the latest. If the ABS warning lamp
fails to go out, and if the ABS fault indicator
appears in the information system display,
this indicates that ABS has been deactivated
due to a fault. If the warning lamp lights up
while you are driving, this indicates that a
fault has occurred. In both cases, normal braking, as in vehicles without ABS, is still retained. The ABS system should, however, be
examined at an authorized Porsche dealer immediately to prevent the occurrence of further
faults.
If the ABS system becomes inoperative,
take your vehicle to your authorized dealer
immediately.
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