7996 'A
Gem The 1996 Geo Prizm Owner’s Manual ............................................................. .. .............................................................. ................................................. SeatsandRestraintSystems 1-1 This section tellsyou how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the air bag system. 2-1 FeaturesandControls This section explains how to start and operate your Geo.
We support voluntary technician certification. CM w GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, GEO, the GEO Emblem and the name PRIZM are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH National Institute for AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed.We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice.
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 yourvehicle. h’,thismanual,you’ll fmd thatpictures and wordswork together to ,expi& things quickly. ‘Index .* , . a CAUTION: - I I I These,meanthere is something that could hurt you orotherpeople. In the caution area,we tell you what the hazard is.
Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: 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 coveredby 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 warningsin different colors orin different words.
Vehicle Symbols These are someof the symbolsyou may find on your vehicle.
NOTES vi
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you'll find information about theseats in your Geo and how to use your safety belts properly.You can also learn about some things you shouldnot do with air bags and safety belts. Manual Front Seats ~ Seats and Seat Controls This part tells seats about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about recliningfront seatbacks, head restraints and rear folding seatbacks.
Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback,lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where Lift the lever under thefront seat to unlock it. Slide the you want it.Push on the seat to make sure it’s locked in try to seat to whereyou want it. Release the lever and to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is position. Pullup on the lever, and the seat will go its original upright position. locked into place.
But don't have a seatback reclinedif your vehicle is moving. Sitting ina reclined positionwhen your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safetybelts can't do their job when you're reclined like this. The shoulderbelt can't do its job because it won't be against yourbody. Instead, itwill be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or otherinjuries. The lapbelt can't do itsjob either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen.
Head Rest] int.- Slide the head straint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears.This position reduces the chanceof a neck injuryin a crash. Pull up to raise the restraint. To lower it, push the release button and push down. Make sure the head restraint is locked in place after you adjust it. Rear Folding Seatback (Option) You can fold either side of the seatback downin your Geo for more cargo space.
afety Belts: They're for Everyone xnls part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not d with safety belts. And it explains theair bag system. 1 A CAUTION: 2. Fold the seatback down. To raise the seatback: 1. Pull the seatback up and pushit back to lockit into place. Make sure the safety belts are not twisted or caught in the seatback. 2. Push and pull the top of the seatback to be sure it is locked in position.
Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.) Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anythmg, you go as fast as itgoes. In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why:They work. You never knowif 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 cansobe serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive.
Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop.
The person keeps going until stoppedby something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... I or the instrument panel...
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts-- and the Answers Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident ifI’m wearing a safety belt? A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But youcan unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being consciousduring and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.
e.’ How to Wear Safety Belts Properly A: Adults If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault-- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect youfrom things beyond your control, suchas bad drivers. Most accidents occur within25 miles (40 km)of home.
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 buckleis positioned so you would beable to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder beltmay lock if youpull the belt across you very quickly.If this happens, let the.beltgo back slightly to unlock it.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the heightthat is right for you. The lap partof the belt shouldbe worn low and snug on In a crash,this applies the hips, just touching the thighs. 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 andacross the chest.
&." Wh,at's wrong with this? A 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. A: The shoulder belt istoo loose. It won't give nearly as much protection thisway.
What's wrong with this? You can be h,,iously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would goup over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your beltinto the buckle nearest you. '.
&: What’s wrong with this? I A CAUTION: You can be seriouslyinjured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move toofar forward, which would increase the chanceof head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much forcetheto ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severelyinjure internal organs like your liveror spleen. I A: I The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder atall times.
@ What's wrong with this? You canbeseriouslyinjured by atwistehIn a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straightso it can work properly, or ask your dealer tofix it. L A: The belt is twisted across the body.
Your Geo has twoair bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bagfor the right front.passenger. Here are the most important thingsto’knowabout theair bag system: 1 You can be severelyinjured orkilled in a crash if you aren’t wearing your.safety ,belt even if you have an air bag. Wearing yoursafety belt during a .crash helps reduce your chanceof hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air bag is only a “supplemental restraint.
A CAUTION: . . ’ ,,. AIR BAG Air bags inflatewith great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriouslyinjure you. Safety belts help keepyou in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safetybelt, even with an airbag. The drivershould sitas far back as possible while still maintaining controlof the vehicle. I An inflating air bag canseriously injure small children. Always secure children properlyin your vehicle.
How the Air Bag System Works I Where is theair bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. The right front passenger’sair bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
Don’t put anything on, or attach anything to, the steering wheel or instrument panel. Also, don’t put anything (suchas pets or objects) between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. If something is between an occupant and an air bag, it could affect the performance of the air bag or worse,it could cause injury. -- When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed toinflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes.
How does an air bag restrain? In moderateto severe frontal or near-frontalcollisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel.The air bag supplementsthe protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute over the occupant’s the force of the impact more evenly upper body, stoppingthe occupant more gradually.
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 sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Your Chevrolet/Geo dealer and the Prizm Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle To purchase a service manual, and the air bag system. see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index. Let only qualified technicians work on yourair bag system.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts workfor everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, theyare more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. The best way to protect thefetus is to protect the mother. When a safety beltis worn properly, it’s more likely that thefetus won’t be hurt ina crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right .
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions U Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions nextto the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here's how to wearone properly. I I 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 unlockit, Then pull the belt across you more slowly. 2. Push the latch plate intothe buckle until it clicks.
When the shoulder belt is pulled outall the way, it will lock. If it does, let itgo back all the way and start again.If’ the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end ofthis section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positionedso you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever hadto. 3. To make thelap part tight, pull downon the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.
The safety belt locksif there's a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the beltvery quickly outof the retractor. A CAUTION: I 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. To unlatch the belt, just push the buttonon the buckle.
Center Passenger Position Lap Belt U When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no.retractor. To make the belt and pull it along the belt. longer, tilt the latch plate \ - .
Children .. Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says childrenup to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies i. ii To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the beltis snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as thelap part of a lap-shoulder belt.
A CAUTION: (Continued) heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 124b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 2404b. (110 kg) force on your arms. The babywould be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint. b c ..... .. , ,, , ... I A CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your armswhile riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much until a crash.
Built-in Child Restraint (Opf- In) The child shouldbe one year old ormore and at least 28 inches (71 cm) in height. It is importantto use a rear-facing infant restraint until the child is about a year old. A rear-facing restraint gives the infant’s head,neck and body the support they would need in a crash. See “Child Restraints” laterin this section for more information. If your vehicle has this option, there’s a built-in child restraint inthe right rear seat position.
&= Which slots shouldI use for my child? A: With the child seated on the child restraint cushion, use the pairof slots thatis at or just above the top of the child’s shoulders. &: What if the top ofmy child’s shouldersis above the highest pair of slots? A: A child whose shoulders are above the highest slots shouldn’t use this child restraint. Instead, the child should sit on the vehicle’s seat cushion and use the vehicle’s safety belts.
Adjusting the Harness Height 2. Fold the top half ofthe seatback down. 1. Pull theflap away from the fastenerstrip behind the
3. Lower the child restraint cushion. Make sure the top half of the seatbackis folded underneath the child restraint cushion. 4. Add slack to the harness. To do this, pull the harness release strap(C) firmly. At the same time, pull both slotsin the sides of the harness (D) thr0ugh.th.e seatback as shown. If the harness cannot be pulled through the slots, raise the childseat cushion to an almost closed position.
5. If the left and right halvesof the shoulder harness clip are fastened together, separate them. 6. Pull down the seatbackpart of the pad (E).
7. Select one sideof the harness. Feed some harness slack backinto the slot. When moving the harnessfrom the lower slotto the upperslot, you may need tofeed as much as 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm) of slack into the slot to move the harness. 8. Move the harnessout of the slot andall the way up to the angled slot position. You may have to squeeze and turn the harness slightly to moveit up.
9. Move the harness to the correct slot. The correct slot is the'one that will be at or just above the topof the child's shoulder. ' 10. Route the harness through the correct slot. You may have to squeeze and turn the harness slightly to routeit through the slot.
11. Pull on the harness firmly. Make sure it is properly routed and isn’t twisted or flipped over. Securing a Child in the Built-in Child Restraint 12. Repeat Steps 7 through 11 for the other side of the harness. Be sure both sides are adjusted to the same height. 13. Move the pad back againstthe child restraint seatback. Make surethe harness goes through the slots in the pad that match the height adjustment slots being used. 14, Press the pad againstthe fastener strips.
A CAUTION: Using the vehicle’s regular safety belts on a child seated on the child restraint cushion can cause serious injury to thechild in a sudden stop or crash. If a child is the proper size for the built-in child restraint, secure thechild using thechild restraint’s harness. But childrenwho are too large for the built-in child restraint should siton the vehicle’s regular seat anduse the regular safety belts.
2. If the left and right halves. of the shoulder harness clip arefastenedtogether,separatethem.Also,makeitclicks. sure the harness is not buckled. 3. Placethechildonthechildrestraintcushion. 4. Place one sideof the harness over eachof the child’s shoulders. 5 . Push both latch plates (F) into the buckle until Be sure the buckle is free of any foreign objects that maypreventyoufromsecuringthelatchplates.
A CAUTION: fastened shoulder harnessclip won’t help on the child’s shoulders. keep the harness in place If the harnessisn’t on thechild’s shoulders, it won’t be able to restrain the child’s upper body in a suddenstop or crash. The child could be seriously injured. Make sure the harnessclip is properly fastened. 6. Now fasten theleft and right halvesof the shoulder harness clip together.The purpose of this clip is to help keepthe harness positioned on the child’s shoulders.
7. Pull the harness adjustmentstrap (G) firmly until the harness is snugly adjusted around the child. You should not be able to put-more than two fingers between the harness andthe‘child’schest. Make sure the harness and bucklestrap (H) are not twisted. 8. Adjust the positionof the harness on thechild’sshoulders bymoving the clip up or down along the harness. On each side of the harness, the shoulder part should be centered on the child’s shoulder.
Removing the Childfrom the Built-in Child Restraint 2. Unlatch the harness bypushing the button on the buckle. 3. Move both sidesof the harnessoff the child's shoulders. 4. Remove the child from the child restraint cushion. , 1. Ukfasten the shoulder harness clip.
Storing the Built-in Child Restraint Always properly storethe built-in child restraint before using the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt in the right rear seat position. 1. Fasten the harness clip. I 2. Using the fastener strip, attachthe buckle strap to the child restraint cushion. Make sure the harness is unlatched and the buckle strapis flat on the cushion. 3. Fold the child restraint cushion up into the seatback Make surethe harness adjustment strapis folded up in the seatback. top 4.
Just likethe other restraint systems in your vehicle, your built-in child restraint needs to be periodically checked and may need to have parts replaced after a crash. See “Checking Your Restraint Systems” and “Replacing Seat and Restraint SystemParts After a Crash” in the Index. Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is.designed to be used ina vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructionsfor the restraint.
Top Strap Your dealer can obtain the hardwarekit and installit for you, or you may installit yourself using the instructions provided in the kit. Use the tether hardwarekit available from the dealer. The hardware and installation instructions were specifically designedfor this vehicle. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position I If yotir child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you it & for Iyou.
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’sface or neck, putit behind the child restraint. 5 . 1 1 1the restof the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quicklyif you ever had to.
To remove the child restraint,just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and letit go back all the way.The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraintin the Center Rear Seat Position U You’ll be using the lap belt. 6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor whileyou push down on the child restraint. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
I 4. Run ‘thevehicle’s safety belt though or around the show restraint. The child restraint instructions will 1. Make the belt as longas possible by tilting the latch plate and pullingit along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat; Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the 3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the safety belt quicklyif you ever had to. instructions say. 6.
in different 7. Push and pull the child restraint directions to be sureit is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different placein the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about howto attach the child restraint properly. 1 the childrestraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s To remove safety belt.It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag.
.$ Pick up thelatch plate, and runthe 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, putit behind the child restraint. A 6. Pull the restof the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 5 . Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quicklyif you ever had to.
' '!71 Larger Children I 7. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. '8: Push g d pull the child restraint in different directions to be sureit is secure. To remove the child restraint,just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt andlet it go backall the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they to use the are restrained in the rear seat. But they need safety belts properly. 0 Children who aren’t buckled upcan be thrown out in a crash. 0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are. 1-52 I A CAUTION: I Never do this. Here two children are wearing thle same belt. Th.e belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, thetwo children canbe crushed together and seriously injured.
I A CAUTION: I Here a child is sitting ina seat that hasa lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind in this way, in the child. If the child wears the belt a crash thechild might slideunder thebelt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. L 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.
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. are working properly.Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt and built-in child restraint system a safety belt parts. If you see anything that might keep or built-in child restraint system from doing job, its have it repaired. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free.
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 seethis label,on If you’ve had a crash, do you need new safety belts or the belt near the door opening. built-in child restraint parts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.If safety beltsor built-in child restraint h&ess straps also are cut or damaged, replace them.
NOTES 1-56
c-- Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on yourGeo, and information on are the starting, shifting and braking. Also explained instrument panel and the warning systems that tell ifyou everything is working properly-- and what todo if you have a problem. Keys 'A CAUTION: Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition keyis dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed.
I NOTICE: One key is used for the ignition, the doors and all Your Geo has a number of features that can help a lot of prevent theft. However, you can have trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside.You may even haveto damage your vehicleto get in. So be sure you have an extra key. When a new Prizm is delivered, the dealer removes the metal plate from the key ring and gives itto the first owner.
Insert the key in either front door and turn the top of the key toward therear of the car to unlockthe door. Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children can easily fall out. When a door is open the doors and locked, the inside handlewon’t open it. Outsiders caneasily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop yourvehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown outof the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’tlocked.
Power Door Locks (Option) Rear Door Security Locks =. I" ..--- Push the power door lock switch on the driver's door to Your Geo is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of lock or unlock all the doors at once. your car from the inside. To use oneof these locks: 1. Turn the knob so the bar points up and down. 2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thing tothe other rear door lock.
The rear doorsof your vehicle cannot be opened from inside when thisfeature is in use. If you want to open rear a door whenthe security lock is on: 1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2. Then open the door from the outside. If you don’t cancelthe security lockfeature, adults and older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door fromthe inside. You should let adults and older children know how these security locks work, and how to cancel the locks. To cancel the rear door lock: 1.
Trunk A CAUTION: Trunk Lock Release To open thetrunk lid, use your key andt ulr. it clockwise. It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas cancome into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousnessand even death. If you must drive with the trunk open or if electrical wiringor othercable connections must pass through the sealbetween the body and the trunk: Make sure allwindows are shut.
Remote Trunk Lock Release Key in the Ignition 1 If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an -- so easy targetfor joy riders or professional thieves don’t do it. Pull the lever on the floor near the driver’s door to open the trunk lid from When you park your Geoand’openthe driver’s door, you’ll heara tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignitionand take it with you. Alwaysdo this. Your steering wheel willbe locked, and so will your ignition.
New Vehicle LLBreak-In” With the keyin the ignition switch, you can turn the switch tofour positions. NOTICE: Your modern Geo doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But itwill perform better in the long run if you followthese guidelines: e Don’t drive at any one speed fast or slow for thefirst 500 miles (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. 0 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.
ACC (B):In this position, you can operate some of your electrical power accessories (suchas the radio, but not the ventilationfan). It unlocks the steering wheel and ignition. ON (C): The switch returnsto this position after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays inthe ON position when the engine is running.
Starting Your Engine Starting Your L4 Engine Automatic Transaxle 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turnyour ignition key toSTART. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed willgo down as your engine gets warm. Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). -- that’s a Your engine won’t start in any other position safety feature.To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shiftto PARK (P)if your Geo is moving.
3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedalall the way to the floor and holdingit there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stopsagain, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five orsix seconds. This clears the extra gasolinefrom the engine. 4. If your engine stalls, restart it as explained earlier.
Automatic Transaxle Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. I PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. 2-12 ’ A CAUTION: I It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P)with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehiclecan roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engineis running unlessyou have to.
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Geo has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) whenthe ignition key is in the ON position. If you cannot shift outof PARK (P), ease pressure onthe shift lever-- push the shift leverall the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application.
DRIVE (D): This position isfor normal driving. If you need more powerfor passing, and you’re: 0 0 Going less than about27 mph (43 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 29 mph (47 km/h) or more, push your accelerator pedal all the way down. and have more power. You’ll shift down to the next gear SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills.
NOTICE: Overdrive (Option) If yourfront wheels can’trotate, don’ttry to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sandor mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transaxle. Also, if you stop.whengoing uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transaxle. Use your brakesto hold your vehicle in position ona hill.’ If your automatic transaxle has OVERDRIVE, you can use it for better fuel economy.
Manual Transaxle 5-Speed Keep your feetoff the clutch pedal unless operating the clutch. Avoid excessive use of the clutch in a half engaged condition, otherwise the clutch may slip after only a low mileage, or could cause problems by overheating. . You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete (l),put the shift stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST lever in NEUTRAL(N) and let upon the. clutch. Press (1). the clutch pedal back down.
REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shiftinto REVERSE (R). Let up onthe clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal. Manual Transaxle Recommended Shift Speeds NOTICE: Shift to REVERSE (R)only after yourvehicle is stopped. Shiftingto REVERSE(R) while your vehicle is moving could damage your transaxle. Also, use REVERSE (R) along with the parking brake for parking your vehicle.
Parking Brake To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can press the as release button. Hold the release button in you move To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down and the lever all the way down. pull up on the parking brake lever.If the ignitionis on, the brake system warning light will come on.
NOTICE: Driving withthe parking brakeon can cause your rear brakes tooverheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damageother parts of your vehicle. If you are towing a trailer, see “Towinga Trailer” in the Index. Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic TransaxleModels Only) 1- A 4UTION: It canbe dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift leveris not fully in PARK (P)with the parking brakefirmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by holding in the button on the lever and pushing the lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle. 3. Move the key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and takeit with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the key in your hand, your vehicle isin PARK (P). 2-20 Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Models Only) A CAUTION: It can be dangerous toleave your vehicle with the engine running.
Shifting Out ofPARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle) 2. Insert the endof the flat-bladed tool into the rectangular slot and press down firmly. Your Geo has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes beforeyou can shift from PARK (P)when the ignition is in the ON position. See “Automatic Transaxle Operation”in the Index. 3.
Parking OverThings That Burn Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under yourvehicle and ignite, Don’t park over papers,leaves, dry grass or otherthings that can burn. 2-22 Engine Exhaust Engine exhaust cankill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO),which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousnessand death. You might have exhaust coming in if: Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. 0 Your vehicle was damaged ina collision.
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transaxle) It’s better notto park with the engine running. But if you ever haveto, here are some things to know. Idling the engine with the air system control 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 yourvehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happenis a garage.
Windows Manual Windows Use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (Option) The AUTO switch for the driver’s window hasan express-down feature. To use express-down, push the switch downall the way. Release the switchand the window will lower completely. You can also open this window anymount by pushing the switch halfway down and releasing it when you want the window to stop. Do not push the switch when the windowinisthe express-down mode.
Tilt Wheel (Option) Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever I The lever on the left side of the steering column includesyour: A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raiseit to the highest levelto give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. 0 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator 0 Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer and Passing Signal LightingOperation To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and lift the lever.
Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (forleft) 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 isfinished, the lever will return automatically. An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turnor lane change. To signal a lane change,just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash.
Flash-to-Pass With the lever in the low beam position, pull the lever toward you to momentarily switch to high beams (to the signal that youare going to pass). If you have headlamps on, when you releasethe lever they will return to low beams. Windshield Wiper/Washer Lever The lever on the right side of the steering column controls the windshield wipers and washer. Move thelever to the position you want: OFF: The wipers are off. INT Intermittent wiper operation (if your Prizm has to use this this).
Windshield Washer Press the button on the end of the lever to spray washer fluid on the windshield. The spray will continue until you release the button.The wipers will run a few times if you have the intermittent wiper feature. If you have the MIST feature, when you press the washer button, washer fluid will spray your windshield and you will need to manually turnon your wipers to clear the windshield. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index.
I A CAUTION: ~~ ~~ 0 Cruise control can be dangerous - c u can’t drive safelyat a steady speed.So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavytraffic. 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.
1. Push the end of the cruise control lever. The CRUISE light on the instrument panel will come on. $... Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shutsoff the cruise control. But you don’t need to it. reset Unless you’regoing about 25 mph (40 km/h) or less or you slowed down to10 mph (16 h/h) less than your preset speed, you can press the lever up to RES/ACC (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second. .;p 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go toa higher speed: Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier. Use the accelerator pedalto get to the higher speed. Push the lever to SET/COAST and hold it for less than pedal. a second.
Lamps Daytime Running Lamps Headlamps Daytime Running Lamps(DRL) can makeit easier for of your vehicle during the day. others to see the front DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but theycan be especially helpfulin the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Turn the outside partof the lever to control the lamps. There are three positionsfor the lamp switch. . . ., . . . OFF: All lamps, except your Daytime Running Lamps (DRL), are off.
ON: The lamp comes on and stays on whether or not a Interior Lamps door is open. Instrument Panel Brightness Control .. This knob controls the brightness of your instrument panel lights. Turn the knob clockwise to brighten the lightsor counterclockwise to dim them. OFF: The lamp staysoff even whena door is open. DOOR: The lamp comes on whena door is open. Reading Lamp Dome Lamp The dome lamp has a three-position switch. If you have a sunroof,you have a reading lamp near the sunroof switch.
Mirrors Outside Manual Adjust Mirrors Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror Adjust these mirrors by hand so that you canjust see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. Power Remote Control Mirrors (Option) The remote power mirror control is to the leftof your steering wheel.To adjust either mirror, move the switch toL (left) or R (right). Then use the round touch pad to adjust the mirror.
Convex Outside Mirror Storage compartments Your passenger’s side mirror is convex.A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat. Glove Box I I A CAUTION: To open the glove box door, squeeze the buttons. Always keep the glove box door closed while driving. Door Storage Compartments A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hita vehicle on your right.
Cupholder Console Storage Area A small storage areais in the console between the seats. If there is a cover, lift it up to access the storage area. Ashtrays and Lighter To open the cupholder, push and release the bar, then pull the cupholder out. With cups removed, push it back in to store. 2-36 Pull the door to open the ashtray. To remove it, push down on the part marked PUSH at the back, then pull the ashtray out. The rear ashtray is on the back of the center console.
NOTICE: Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors.You can also swing them to the side. Don’t put papers and other things that burn into your ashtray.If you do, cigarettes or other Visor Vanity Mirrors (Option) smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage. When you are done using the ashtray, push it back to close it. To use the lighter, push thelighter in all the way and let go. When it’s ready,it will pop back by itself. The lighter won’t work if the key in is LOCK.
Sunroof You can tilt or openyour sunroof. To tilt thesunroof, press the switch marked UP. Press the other end of the switch to lower the sunroof. Your ignition must be on for this switch to work. 2-38 To open the sunroof, push the SLIDE arrow that points to therear of the vehicle.To close it, push the other arrow that points to the front of the vehicle. The sunroof Push the arrow again to will close partially then stop. close it completely. You can open thesunroof to any position.
If the sunroof willnot close, follow these instructions: u 1. Remove the cover screw (use a cross-recess screwdriver) and take off the sunroof control cover. 2. Carefully remove the inside screw, washers and spacers. Be careful not to lose this screw, the washers, orthe spacers becausethe sunroof won’t work without them. 3. Close the sunroof by hand as far as it will go. Then insert a blade screwdriver into the hole and turnit clockwise until the sunroof is closed.
Instrument Panel 2-40
A. Side Window DefoggerVent N. Cigarette Lighter B. C. D. E. Electric Mirror Control 0. Hazard Warning Flashers Brightness Control P. ShiftLever Q. Coinholder R. Ashtray SI Cupholder T. Audio System U. Comfort Control System V. Passenger’s Side Air Bag W. Glove Box X. Side Window DefoggerVent Y. Vent (Shut-Off)Thumbwheel Hood Release Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever E Tilt Wheel Lever G. Instrument Cluster H. HomDriver’s SideAir Bag I. Windshield Wiper Control J. Ignition Switch K.
Standard Cluster Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running, You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how muchfuel you haveleft in your fueltank, and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.
Optional Cluster If you have the optional cluster, your instrument panel gives you additional information. This cluster includes a tachometer.
Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speedin both miles per hour (mph) and kilometersper hour (km/h). Your odometer shows howfar your vehicle has been driven, in miles. Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describesthe warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an Trip Odometer expensive repairor replacement.
. - . ,. . . i .- . I When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you aredriving, or when oneof the gages shows there may bea problem, check the section that tells you this manual’s advice. what to, do about it. Please follow Waiting to do repairscan’becostly -- and even dangerous. So please getto know your warning lights gages. They’re and help. a big .> Safety Belt Reminder Light I i.
Charging System Light This light will comeon briefly when youturn on the ignition, but the engine is not running,as a checkto show youit is working. Then it should go out when the engine starts. Brake System Warning Light Your Geo’s hydraulic brake systemi s divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comeson, there could be a brake problem.
IA CAUTION: I Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light (Option) I Your brake system may not be working properly if the brakesystem warning lightis on. Driving with the brakesystem warning lighton can lead to anaccident. If the light is still onor if the anti-lock brakesystem warning lightis flashing after you’ve pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have thevehicle towed for service. When the ignition ison, the brake system warning light will also come on when you set your parking brake.
’ A CAUTION: I I Your regular brake system may not be working properly if the anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing. Driving with the anti-lock brake system warning light flashing can lead to an off the road and accident. After you’ve pulled stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service. 2-48 If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays on longer than normal after you’ve started your engine, turn the ignition off.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Anti-Lock Brake System Active Light (Option) ABS ACTIVE @ - When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, the anti-lock brake system active light will come on. Standard Cluster Slippery road conditions may exist if this light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few secondsafter the system stops adjusting brake pressure.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) NOTICE: Your Geo is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. CHECK If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, aftera while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could leadto costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.
If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: Ifthe” Steady Yo1 lay be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: 0 Reduce vehicle speed. Did youjust drive through adeep puddle of water? 0 Avoid hard accelerations. Avoid steep uphill grades. If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.
Have you recently changed brands offuel? Engine Oil Pressure Light If so, be sure tofuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see If you have a problem, with “Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your your oil, this light may stay engine not to runas efficiently as designed. You may on after you start your notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you engine, or come on when put the vehicleinto gear, misfiring, hesitation on you are driving.
Sometimes when the engine is idling at astop, the light may blink on andoff. This is normal. Overdrive Off Light If you make a hardstop, the light may come onfor a moment. This is normal. I A CAUTION: Don’t keep drivingif the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or otherscould be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced.
Rear Window Defogger Light This light will come on whenever the rear window defogger is on. See “Rear Window Defogger”in the Index. Your fuel gage shows about how much fuel is in your tank. The fuel gage worksonly when the ignition switch is ON. When the gagefirst indicates EMPTY (E), you still havea little fuel left (about oneor two gallons) but you need to get more right away. Here arefive concerns some owners have had about the fuel gage.
NOTES 2-55
NOTES
Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems 1 I In this sectionyou’ll find out how to operatethe comfort control and audio systems offered with your Geo. Be sure to read aboutthe particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Climate Control System Comfort Controls With this system, you can control the heating and ventilation in your Geo. If you havethe air conditioning option, you can also control cooling. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system describedlater in this section.
Air Intake Lever RECIRCULATE: Choose this position to recirculatethe inside air throughthe comfort A* control system. BI-LEVEL: This position directs the airflow CIRCULATE: Choose this position to circulate through the instrument panel vents and toward the floor. -2 FLOOR: This position directs the airflow toward outside air through the comfort control system. the floor. Air Conditioner Controls (Option) Airflow Knob d e ,4 VENT This position directs the airflow through the instrument panel vents.
For normalcooling, push the A/C button and move the air intakelever to CIRCULATE for normal cooling. For faster cooling, movethe lever to RECIRCULATE. Then move the airflowknob to VENT and turn the temperature control knob counterclockwise. Turn the fan knob to HI. On days whenit is raining or the humidity is high, follow these dehumidifying steps instead of the cooling directions. It will help clean windows thatare cloudy with moisture. Bi-Level You may want to use bi-level heatingon cool, but sunny days.
e When you enter a vehiclein cold weather, move the fan lever towardHI for a few moments before of snow driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts and moisture, and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. 0 of objects. Keep the air path under the front seats clear This helps air to circulate throughout your vehicle. 0 Shut off outboard dash ventsto keep cold air from blowing in.
Rear Window Defogger (Option) The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. I Press the switch to turnon the defogger. The defogger will stay on for about 15 minutes, then will shutoff automatically. You can also turnit off by pressing the switch again. Useit only when the engineis running. Make sure you turn the defogger off when the window is clear. Leavingthe defogger on for a long time could cause the battery to run down, especially during stop-and-go driving.
Setting the Clock for AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player AM-FM Stereo (Option) Press and hold RCL-PROG (TIME SET) to set the correct hour. At the same time, press and hold the TUNE left arrow (HR) until the correct hour appears. Press and hold RCL-PROG (TIME SET) to set the correct minute. At the same time, press and hold theTUNE right arrow (MIN) until the correct minute appears.
Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM or FM. The lighted display shows your selection. TUNE: Press the rightor left arrow to go to a higheror lower station. Press and hold to continue tuning and release when youfind your station. The display will show the frequency of each station tuned. SEEK: Press the right or left arrow andthe radio will tune to the next higher or lower station and stay there. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttonslet you return to your previously played stations.
AM-FM Stereo with CassetteTape Player (Option) To Play the Radio Turn theON-VOL knob to turn the system on oroff. VOL: Turn this knob to adjust the volume. RCL: Press this button to see the station being played for a moment. Or, press it if you want to see the time when the ignition is off. 3-8 Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to getAM,FMl or FM2. The lighted displayshows your selection. TUNE: Press the TUNE rightor left arrow to go to a higher or lower station.
Setting theTone Playing a Cassette Tape TREB: Turn this knob to the right to hear more treble, BASS: Turn this control behindthe TREB knob to the right to hear more bass. Your tape player is built to work best with tapesare that 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than in player. that are so thin they may not work well this Treble and bass cannot be adjusted manually when TONE SELECTis on. The longer side with the tape visible should face to the right.
NEXT Press this button to go forward to the beginning of the next selection. Press the button again or press RCL/PROG or EJECT to cancel this function. For NEXT to work properly, your tape must have at least threeor four seconds of silence between each selection. If you press RCL/PROG, the tape will also change sides. PREV: Press this button togo back to the beginningof the last selection. Press PREV again or press RCL/PROG or EJECT to cancel this function.
AM-FM Stereo with CassetteTape and Compact Disc Player (Option) Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM, FM1 or FM2. The lighted display shows your selection. TUNE: Press the TUNE rightor left arrow to go to a higher or lower station. Press and hold to continue tuning and release when you find your station. The display will show the frequencyof each station tuned. To Play the Radio Turn the ON-VOL knob to turn the system on or off. VOL: Turn this knob to adjustthe volume.
Setting the Tone TREB: Turn this knob to the right to hear more treble. BASS: Turn this control behind the TREB knobthe to right to hear more bass. Treble and bass cannot be adjusted manually when TONE SELECT is on. TONE SELECT Press this button to choose preset treble and bass equalization settings designed for ROCK, NEWS, POP, JAZZ and CLASSICAL. ROCK will appear when youfirst press TONE SELECT. Each time you pressit, another setting will appear on the display.
NXT: Press this button to go forward to the beginning of the next selection. Press NXT again or press RCL, or STOP to cancel this function.If you press RCL, the tape will also change sides. PRV: Press this button to go back to the beginning of the last selection. Press the button again or press RCL, or STOP to cancel thisfunction. For NXT and PRV to work properly, your tape must have at least three or four seconds of silence between each selection. If you press RCL, the tape will also change sides.
Playing a Compact Disc Don’t use the mini-discs (three-inch singles). They won’t eject. Use full-size compact discs. Insert your disc into the CD slot on your audio system. REW Press and hold this button to return rapidly to a favorite passage. Release it to play the passage. FF: Press and holdthis button to fast forward or advance quickly within a track. Release it to resume playing.
Theft-Deterrent Feature The theft-deterrent feature forthe AM-FM stereo with cassette tapeor compact disc playerscan be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally. If it is used, your system won’t be usable if it’s ever stolen because it willgo into LOC mode. 4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until ---- shows on the display. 5. Press the left or right SEEK arrow, or the left or right TUNE arrow and oo00 will appear on the display. 6.
Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature .' ' ' Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a If your radio is secured (SEC shows on the display) and Power Loss If power is disrupted to the radio while in the SEC you wish to disableit, enter yoursecurity code as follows, mode, the unit will not work and LOC will show on the pausing no morethan 15 seconds between steps. display whenever the ignition is on. To unlock the unit, 1. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together.
Understanding RadioReception To help avoid hearing loss or damage: Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. FM Stereo FM stereo will give you the best sound. But FM signals will reach only about10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go. AM The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other.
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player thatis not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruiped cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat.If they aren’t, theymay not operate properly or may causefailure of the tape player. Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use.
NOTES 3-19
NOTES 3-20
GeGB Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your Geo: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts”in the Index.) Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do.
The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But Death .and injury associated with drinking and driving is what if people do? How much is “too much” if the a national tragedy. It’sthe number one contributor to driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many might the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims think. Although it depends on each person and situation, every year. here is some general information on the problem.
Since alcohol is carriedin body water, this means that a woman generally will reacha higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in manyU.S. states sets the legal limit at a BA U.S. states, and of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of 0.08 percent. In some throughout Canada, the limit is other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limitfor all commercial drivers in the United States 0.04 is percent. The BAC will be over0.
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol of cold in onedrink. No amount of coffee or number showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. Whatif there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enoughto avoid the collision. There’s somethingelse about drinking and driving that’ many people don’t know.
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go whereBraking action involvesperception time and reaction time. you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. at the places wherethe tires meet the road. That's perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot anddo it. That's reaction time. Average reaction timeis about 3/4 of a second.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive Anti-Lock Brakes (Option) in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy Your vehicle may have anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is is a braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between an advanced electronic braking system that will help hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you prevent a braking skid. do a lotof heavy braking.
The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computeris programmed to make the mostof available tire and road conditions. Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenlyan animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS. You can steer around the obstacle while braking hard. 4-7 .
Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t changethe time you need Braking in Emergencies to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease At some time, nearly every driver getsinto a situation stopping distance. If you get too close tothe vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes that requires hard braking. if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave If you have anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the enough room up aheadto stop, even though you have same time.
Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, youcan steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here’s why: Experienced driveror beginner, eachof us is subject to the same lawsof physics when driving on curves.
Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you comeover a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can -- if you can stop in avoid these problems by braking time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the timefor evasive action-- steering around the problem. Your.
Off-Road Recovery Passing You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edgeof a roadonto the shoulder while you’re driving. The driverof a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waitsfor just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again.
Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and start your left lane change signal before moving out you are far enough of the right lane to pass. When ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. (Remember that your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seemto be farther away from you than it really is.
Loss of Control vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid ifit occurs. Let’s review what driving expertssay about what ice, happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these tires meet the roadto do what the driver has asked. conditions.
Driving at Night Here are some tips on night driving. 0 Drive defensively. 0 Don't drink and drive. 0 Adjust your inside rearview mirrorto reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. 0 Since you can't see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles. 0 Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. 0 In remote areas, watchfor animals. If you're tired, pulloff the road in a safe place and rest.
Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean -- inside and out. Glare at night is made much No one can see as well at nightas in the daytime. But as worse by dirt on the glass. Eventhe inside of the glass A 50-year-old we get older these differences increase. can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes driver may require at least twice as much light to see the lights dazzle andflash more than cleanglass would, same thing at nightas a 20-year-old.
Driving in Rainand on Wet Roads Rain ana wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerateor turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get even less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see.
I A CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won't work well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose controlof the vehicle. or After driving through a large puddle of water a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through somecar washes can cause problems,too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can't, try to slow down before you hit them.
Hydroplaning Driving Through Deep Standing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the roadis wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. I NOTICE: Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if your tires haven’t much tread or the if pressure in one or more is low. It can happenaiflot of water is standing on the road.
City Driving Here are waysto increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are trip into an going. Get a city map and plan your unknown part of the cityjust as you wouldfor a cross-country trip. 0 Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You’ll save time and energy. (See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”) Treat a green light as a warning signal.A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it.
Freeway Driving At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads tothe freeway. If you havea clear viewof the freeway asyou drive along the entrance ramp,you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow.Try to merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed; Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.
The exit speed is usually posted. Here are some things youcan check before a trip: Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After drivingfor any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness,or whatever. of road with There is something about an easy stretch the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the droneof the engine, and the rush of the wind make you sleepy.
If you drive regularly insteep country, or if you’re are some tips thatcan make planning to visit there, here your tripssafer and more enjoyable. 0 Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and alsothe brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle. Theseparts can work hardon mountain roads. Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to knowis this: let your enginedo some of the slowing down.Shift to a lower gear when you go down asteep or long hill.
Winter Driving !I Here are some tips for winter driving: 0 Have your Geoin good shape for winter. 0 You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. 4-24 Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Driving on Snow or Ice What’s the worst timefor this? “Wet ice.”Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the ice can be even more trouble because it may the offer road probably have good traction. least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about freezing (32 O F ; 0” C) and freezing rain begins to fall. However, if there is snow orice between your tires and the road,you can have a very slippery situation.
’ ~ ~ Remember, unless you have anti-lock, if you brake so hard that your wheels stop rolling, you’ll just slide. Brake so your wheels always keep rolling and you can still steer. 0 Whatever your braking system, allow greater following distanceon any slippery road. 0 Watch for slippery spots.The road might befine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice.
0 Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you've been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blanketsor extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags,rags, floor mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm. A CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. CO (carbon monoxide) gas This can cause deadly to get inside. CO could overcomeyou and kill you.
~ u your n engineonly as long as youmust. This saves heel. When you run the engine, makeit go a little faster Loading Your Vehicle . than just idle. That is, push the accelerator ,slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged.You will need a well-charged battery to restart the'vehicle, and possiblyfor signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for awhile.
MFG. BY NEW UNITED MOTOR MANUFACTURING A CAUTION: ‘ INC. Do not load yourvehicle any heavier than the BA416932 GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, or it can change way the your vehicle handles. These could causeyou to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten thelife of your vehicle. The other label is the CertXcation label, found on the rear NOTICE: of the driver’s door opening.
A CAUTION: Things you put insidey c vehicle ~ can strike and injurepeople in a sudden stopor turn, or in a crash. 0 Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a trunk, put themas far forwardas you can. Try to spread theweight evenly. 0 Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside thevehicle so that some of them are above the topsof the seats. 0 Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
Your vehicle can tow a trailerif it is equipped with a 1.6L (Code 6)engine or a 1.8L (Code8) engine and proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity isfor your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears laterin this section. But traileringis different thanjust driving your vehicleby itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability, and fuel economy.
Three important considerations have do to with weight: the weight of the trailer, the weightof the trailer tongue and the total weight on your vehicle’s tires. Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than1,500 lbs. (680 kg). But even that can be too heavy. Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure becauseit affects the total capacity weight of your vehicle.
If you’re usinga weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh10%of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing hitch, the 12%of the total loaded trailer tongue (A) should weigh trailer weight(B). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to seeif the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may beable to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Even if your vehicle doesn’t have anti-lock brakes, don’t tap into your vehicle’s brake system if the trailer’s You should always attach chains between your vehicle brake system will use more than 0.02 cubic inch(0.3 cc) and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of fluid from your vehicle’s master cylinder. If it does, of the trailerso that the tongue will not drop to the road both braking systems won’t work well. You could even if it becomes separated from the hitch.
Driving with a Trailer Following Distance Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before settingout for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a gooddeal longer and not nearlyas responsive as your vehicleis by itself.
Making Turns NOTICE: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering. When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal.Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
Driving On Grades Parking on Hills Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long orsteep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, ona hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: 0 Start your engine; Shift into a gear; and Release the parking brake. 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the traileris clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks. 4-3s Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer.See the Maintenance Schedulefor more on this.
NOTES 4-39
NOTES 4-40
Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you'll find whatto do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press the button tomake your front and rear turn signal lamps flash onand off.
Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your keyis in, and evenif the keyisn't in. .. _., 1' I' To turn off the flashers, press the button again. ". When the hazard warning flashers areon, your turn signals won't work. A I CAUTION: ..n- Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Batteries can hurtyou. They canbe dangerous because: 0 They contain acid that can burn you.
1. Check the other vehicle.It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. NOTICE: If the othersystem isn’t a 12-volt system with a negative ground, bothvehicles can be damaged. 2. Get the vehicles close enoughso the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other.If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’tbe able to start your Geo, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. 3.
I CAUTION: Using a match neara battery cancause battery gas toexplode. People havebeen hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the Delco Freedom@ battery installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps,be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first.If you don’t, explosive gas could be present.
7. Don't let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive(+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 6 . Connect the red positive(+) cable to the positive(+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive(+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 1 8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery's negative (-) terminal. Don't let the other end touch anything until the next step.
11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start aftera few tries,it probably needs service. 12. Remove the cablesin reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal. 9. The other endof the negative (-) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.
Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a Chevrolet/Geo dealeror a professional towing service tow your Geo. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index. If your vehicle has been changed or modified sinceit like fog was factory-new by adding aftermarket items lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct. Before you do anything,turn on the hazard warning flashers.
r A CAUTION: I A vehicle can fall froma car carrierif it isn’t a collision, adequately secured. This can cause serious personal injury andvehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains or steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing, etc,) that canbe cut by sharp edges underneath thetowed vehicle, Always use T-hooks inserted in theT-hook slots. Never use J-hooks. They will damage drivetrainand suspension components.
Front Towing NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipmentor fascia damage will occur. Use wheel-lift or car carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps. Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle to ground or vehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, installa towing dolly and raise thevehicle until adequate clearance is obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment.
Attach T-hook chainsto the slots in the frame brackets, Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end just aheadof the front wheels,on both sides. of each lower control arm.
Rear Towing . , . ~ =~ ~~ ~ Attach T-hook chains to slots in the bottomof the floor pan, just aheadof the rear wheels, on both sides.
NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipment or rear bumper valance will be damage&. Use wheel-lift or car carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps. Dollies are required under the front wheels or damage willoccur. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each lower control arrn.
Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gageor the warning light about a hotengine on your Geo instrumentpanel. i CAUTION: a If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine ~ r Steam from anoverheated engine canburn you badly, even if you just open thehood. Stay away from the engineif you see or hear steamcoming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from thevehicle until itcools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam orcoolant before opening thehood.
If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slowerfor about If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no 10 minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes you can drive normally. the engine can get a little too hot when you: If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your 0 Climb a long hillon a hot day. vehicle right away, 0 Stop after high-speed driving.
When you decide it's safe to lift the hood, here's what you'll see: I A CAUTION: - . , "" I . An electric fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling don't do anything else untilit cools down. 1. Coolant Recovery Tank 2. Radiator Pressure Cap 3.
The coolant level should be ator above FULL. If it isn’t, you may have a leak the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere elsein the.cooling system. ’ A CAUTION: b * .. i n . ~ Heater and radiatorhoses, and otherengine partsp canbe veryhot. Don’t touch them..Ifyou do, you can be burned. Don’t run theengine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire,and you could be burned. Get any leakfixed before you drive thevehicle.
. . .',' - . I . . . . , . .- :; .- . . I, ~, ',( I* , ,; .3 . ' " I , ' , . ; How.&Add Coolant to the Coolant ' t : , ., . , .. .... - i 7 Recovery Tank /. -. . . .... : , :. NOTICE: . , If you haven't founda problem yet, but the coolant level isn't at FULL, add a 50/50 mixture of dean water (prefera'bly distilled) and a proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank.(See "Engine Coolant" in the Index for more infomation about the proper coolantmix.) . . ? '.+. .
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine. When the coolant inthe coolant recovery tankis at FULL, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there's one more thing you can try. Youcan add the proper coolant mix directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before youdo it.
I Steam andscalding liquids froma hot cooling system canblow out and burnyou badly. They are underpressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap even a little they can come out at high speed.Never turn the capwhen the cooling system, including theradiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for thecooling system and radiator pressure cap tocool if you ever haveto turn thepressure cap.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as youturn it. Remove the pressure cap. 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling-system, including the radiator pr&sure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until frst it stops. (Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear ahiss, wait for that to stop.A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
. . , .... 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to FULL. 5 . Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but 3. Fill the radiator with the propermix, up to the base of the filler neck. leave the radiator pressure cap off.
. 6. Start the engine and letit run until you can feel'the . upper radiator hose getting hot.Watch out for the engine fans. 7. By this time the coolant level inside the radiator .. filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the propermix through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. I 8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow outof the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
If a Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goesflat, avoid further tire and wheel damage It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes warning flashers. out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly.
Removing the Spare Tire andTools I.... The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change atire. 5-24 The equipment you’ll needis in thetrunk.
Move the carpet from the top of the spare tire cover. Then remove the cover over the spare tire. * * Turn the knob and remove it. Pull out the. spare tire.See "Compact Spare Tire" later in this section for more information about the compact spare. Remove the wheel wrench, jack and jack handle from the trunk. The jack is under a coveron ,the right sideof the trunk. Remove the coyer, thenturn the jack screw to remove the jack from the clamps.
’ . Attach the jack handle to the jack. Turn the jack handle Remove the wheel cover, if your vehicle is equipped to ‘the right to raise the lift head. with one, by using the flat end of the wheel wrench. Pry along the edgeof the wheel cover untilit comes off. Be careful; therim edges may be sharp. Don’t try to remove it with your bare hands.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 2. Insert theflat end of the wheel wrench into the slot to remove the center cap,if your vehicleis equipped with one. Pry the cap off. 1. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet.
I A CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slipsoff the jack, you could be badly injuredor killed. Never get under a vehicle whenit is supported only by a jack. 3. Position thejack and raise thejack lift head untilit fits firmly into the notches closest to the flat tire. (Under the vehicle near each wheel, there are bosses in the vehicle’s rocker flange.
6. Remove any rust ordirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and . spare wheel. NOTICE: Raising your vehicle with thejack improperly positioned will damage thevehicle or may allow the vehicle to falloff the jack.Be sure tofit the jack lift head into theproper location before raising yourvehicle. 4. Raise the vehicleby rotating the jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehiclefar enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit. 5 .
Never use oilor grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 7. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded endof the nuts towardthe wheel. Tighten each nutby hand until the wheel is held against the hub. 5-30 8. Lower the vehicleby turning thejack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.
I 9. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in NOTICE: a criss-cross sequence as shown. A CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperlytightened wheel nuts cancause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could leadto an accident. Be sure to use the correctwheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure toget new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhereas soon as you can andhave the nutstightened with a torque wrench to 100 lb-ft (140 Nom).
, Storing the Fiat or Spare Tire and Tools Stcl .ng ajack, a tire'or other equipment in the passenger compartmentof the vehicle could cause injury. Ina sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all. these in the properplace. 4 I 3 1. Jack 2. Spare or Flat Tire 3. ToolBag 4. Jack Handle Replace thejack, jack handle, wheel wrench and flat or spare tire. Make sure the tool bag is stored securely under the tire to help prevent rattles.
Compact Spare Tire on other vehicles. Don’t use your compact spare Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel with your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check other wheels or tires. They won’tfit. Keep your spare tire and its wheel together. the inflation pressure regularly. It should 60 be psi (420 P a ) .
1f.You’reStuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution. ’ ’A CAUTION:’ , .* Spinning yourwheels can destroyparts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin thewheels too fast while shifting your transaxle backand forth, you can destroyyour transaxle.
Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out A AUTION: First, turn your steering wheel left and right.That will clear the area around your front wheels. Then shift back (R)and a forward gear and forth between REVERSE The recovery hooks, when used, are undera lot of (or with a manual transaxle, betweenFIRST (1) or force. Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never SECOND (2) and REVERSE (R)), spinningthe wheels pull on the hooksat a sideways angle. The hooks as little as possible.
NOTES 5-36
Gem Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your Geo. Doing Your Own Service Work This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant If you want to do some of your ownservice work, you’ll want to get the proper Geo Service Manual. It tells you levels. There is also technical information about your much more about how to service your Geo than this its appearance care.
- ; You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without ,knowing enough about it. 0 Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, and the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and otherfasteners.“English”.and6Cmetric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or falloff. You could be hurt.
In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing Fuels in Foreign Countries additive calledMMT. If you use suchfuels, your If you plan on driving in another country outside the emission control system performance may deteriorate fuel may be hard United States or Canada, the proper and the malfunction indicator lampon your instrument to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not panel may turn on. If this happens, return to your recommended in the previous texton fuel.
Remote Fuel Door Release Lever Filling Your Tank 1 The fuel door release lever is near the floor to the left of the driver’s seat. I .. The cap is behind a hinged dooron the driver’s sideof your vehicle. I A CAUTION: * ’ Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline.
*,UTION*Tont’nxred) - - - quickly. This spray canhappell t ybulBtank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any“hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. . . : i Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfacesas soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Geo” in the Index. While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (cou--’-:rclockwise).
Checking Things Under the Hood Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the release handle inside the vehicle. It’s on the bottom portion of the instrument panel to the leftof the steering wheel. Then go tothe front of the vehicle. Release the secondary hood releaseby pushing up on thelever near the middleof the hood.
A CAUTION: ‘I An electric fan under the hood* can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. Lift the hood, release the hood prop frdm its retainer and put the hoodprop .into the slotin the hood.
When you open the hood ona 1.6L (Code 6 ) or a 1.8L (Code 8) engine with anti-lock brakes, you'll see: .. " x c t A. B. C. D. Vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes shown, vehicle not equipped with anti-lock brakes similar Windshield Washer Reservoir E. Engine Cooling Fans I. Brake Fluid Reservoir Engine Oil Dipstick F. Radiator Pressure Cap J. Battery Oil Fill Cap G. Engine Coolant Reservoir K. Engine Compartment Fuse Power SteeringBlocks ReservoirCleaner H.
A CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engineparts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washerand other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned.Be careful not to dropor spill things thatwill burn ontoa hot engine. Before closingthe hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly.
I The ennine oil Checking Engine Oil dipstici is located in the rearof the engine compartment, on the passenger’s side. The dipstick handle is a yellow loop. Pull out the dipstick and cleanit with a paper towel or cloth, then pushit back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level. ... lurn off the engine andgive the oil a few minutes to drain back intothe oil pan. If you don’t, theoil dipstick might not show the actual level.
I NOTICE: I What Kind of Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle canbe identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has by the American indicates that the oil has been certified so much oil that the oil level gets above the Petroleum Institute(API). Do not use anyoil which cross-hatched area that shows the proper does not carry this Starburst symbol. operating range, your engine could be damaged.
You should also use the proper viscosityoil for your vehicle, as shown in the following charts: RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMI AND COLD STARNN6, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY H E OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. HOT WEATHER PRERRREO r COLD WEATHER DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED 6-12 As shown in the chart, if you have a1.8L (Code 8) engine, S A E 5W-30 is best for your vehicle.
I I RECOMMENDED VISCOSITY SAE GRADE ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE L@WEST SAEVISCOSITYGRADEOIL FOR THEEXPECTEDTEMPERATURERANGE. WOK FOR THIS SYMBOL HOT WEATHER +loo- - +38 +BO- I I As shown in the chart, if you have a 1.6L (Code6) engine, SAE 1OW-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can useSAE 5W-30 if it’s going to be colder than 60°F (16”C) before your nextoil change. When it’s very cold, you should useSAE 5W-30.
When to Change Engine Oil What to Do with Used Oil See if any one of these is true for you: Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on yourskin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothingor rags containing used engine oil. (See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.
Air Cleaner To check or replace the filter: The air cleaner andfilter are on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. 1. Release the four clips that holdthe cover down. 2. Lift the cover off. 3. Pull out the air filter.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to Automatic replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services”in the Index. I A CAUTION: Operating the engine withthe air cleaner off can cause you or others tobe burned. The air cleaner not only cleansthe air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine withthe air cleaner off.
How to Check Because this operationcan be alittle difficult, you may choose to have thisdone at your Chevrolet/Geo dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself,be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km)when outside temperatures are above50°F (10°C).
Then, without shuttingoff the engine, follow these steps: 1. Release the tab and pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or papertowel. 2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. I 6-18 dipstick backin all the way.
How to Add Fluid Manual Transaxle Fluid Refer tothe Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids andLubricants” in the Index. When to Check If the fluid levelis low, add only enoughof the proper fluid to bring the levelinto the area between dimples on the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take muchfluid, generally less than a pint (0.5 L).
Check the fluid level only when your engine off, is the Hydraulic Clutch vehicle is parked on a level place and the transaxle is The hydraulic clutch linkage in your vehicle is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the self-adjusting. The clutch master cylinder reservoir is transaxle case. filled with hydraulic clutch fluid. Then, follow these steps: It isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your clutch fluid. Adding 1. Remove the filler plug. fluid won’t correct a leak. 2.
Refer tothe Malnrenance Schedule to determine how often you should check the fluid level in your clutch master cylinder reservoir and for the proper fluid. See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. How to Check Check to make sure that the fluid levelis at the MIN mark. If the level is belowthe MIN mark, see the instructions on the reservoir cap.
Checking Coolant NOTICE: If you use an improper coolant mix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn't be covered byyour warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. I NOTICE: I ~ ~~~~~ If you use the proper coolant,you don't have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve thesystem.
I A CAUTION: b Radiator Pressure Cap lhrning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steamand scalding liquids toblow out and burnyou badly. With thecoolant recoverytank, you will almost never have toadd coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure capeven a little when the engine and radiator arehot. -- -- Add coolant mix at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.
Thermostat Engine coolant temperatureis controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. When you replace your thermostat, an AC@thermostat is recommended.
How To Check Power Steering Fluid Windshield Washer Fluid Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. What to Use Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove When you need windshield washerfluid, be sure to read the cap again and look at thefluid level on the dipstick. If you will be the manufacturer’s instructions before use. When the engine compartment is hot, the level operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature should be betweenthe HOT marks.
NOTICE: 0 0 0 0 When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution freeze to and damage your washer fluid tank and other partsof the washersystem. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion, whichcould damage the tankif it is completely full.
Brakes Brake Fluid So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brake fluid. If you add fluid Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. when your liningsare worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when youget new brake linings.You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. ’! LI CAUTION: you have too much brame fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough.
What toAdd When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 (GM Part No. 1052535).Use new brake fluidfrom a sealed container only, and always clean the brake fluid servoir cap before removing it. @ -- CAUTION: the wrong kindof fluid in yourbrake system, your brakes may not workwell, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a .’Always usethe proper brake fluid. -.. I . Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts.
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly Your Geo hasfront disc brakes and rear drum brakes. applied. This does not mean something is wrong with Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a your brakes. high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are Free movement of brake calipers and properly torqued worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation.
Brake Adjustment Battery Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc Every new Geo hasa Delco Freedom@ battery.You brakes adjust for wear. If you rarely make a moderate or never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time heavier stop, then your brakes might not adjust correctly. for a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom If you drive in that way, then -- very carefully -- make battery.
Bulb Replacement Headlamps See “Replacement Bulbs”in the Index to check the size and type of bulb you need to use. Halogen Bulbs ; Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others couldbe injured..Besure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. 1. Open the hood. 2. If you’re replacing a driver’sside headlamp bulb, you need to removethe air duct behindthe headlamp assembly. Pry up on the centerof the plasticclip and pull it out.
4. Turn the lock ring assembly counterclockwise. (It doesn’t comeoff.) 5. Pull the bulb socketout of tl ’ .lsing. 6. Pull the connector apartto remove the bulb assembly. 7. Reverse the steps with a new bulb assembly. Remember to replace theair duct if you replaced the driver’s side bulb. Slide the outer part of the plasticclip into the hole. 0 Then push in the centerof the clip. 3. Reach behind the headlamp assembly and find the lock ring assembly.
Front Sidemarker Lamps Front limn Signal Lamps of the 1. Remove the screw in the parking lamp lens and 1. Remove the screw near the top outside headlamp assembly. remove the parking lamp assembly. 2. Remove the sidemarker assembly. There is a snap-in 2. Remove the screw fromthe turn signal assembly. connector in the assembly, so you may have topry 3. Pull on the rear edge of the assembly and slidethe carefully on the inside edgeof the assembly to assembly towardthe rear to removeit. remove it. pull the 3.
Parking Lamps 4. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull it out. 5. Push the bulb in, turn it counterclockwise and pull it out. 6. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. 6-34 1. Remove the screw near the top outside part of the headlamp assembly. is a 2. Remove the parking lamp assembly. There snap-in connector at the front of the assembly,so you may have to pry carefully on the inside edge of the assembly to remove it.
._-. 3. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pullthe bulb straight out. 4. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. The combination lamp assembly includes the taillamp/stoplamp, turn signal and sidemarker bulbs. 1. Open the trunk. 2. Remove the two bolts from the lens assembly. 3. Remove the trunk trim. 0 Move the carpet. 0 Loosen the two clips onthe trunk trim near the trunk opening. Pop theclips out. Pull the trunk trim away from the *sar of the trunk.
4. Remove the nut fromthe stud near the rear cornerof the trunk. 5. Remove the rear combination lamp assembly. There is a snap-in connector in the assembly, so you may have to pull carefully on the inside edge of the assembly to remove it. 6. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull it out. 7. For the tail/stop or turn signal lamps, push the bulb in, turn it counterclockwise and pull it out. For the sidemarker bulb, pullit straight out. 8. Reverse the steps witha new bulb.
Back-up Lamps Tires We don’t make tires.Your new ueo comes with high-quality tires madeby a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service,see your Geo Warranty booklet for details. 1. Open the trunk. 2. Remove the trimon the trunk lid (if your vehicle is so equipped). 3. Remove the screw from the back-up lamp. 4. Pull the bulb housing assembly through the opening in the trunk lid. 5. Push the bulbin, turn it counterclockwise and pull it out. 6.
CAUTION: (Continued) 0 0 Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when yourtires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured or broken by a sudden impact such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents.
When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa). How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by lookingat them. Radialtires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. dirt and moisture.
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire-Loading all wheel nuts are Information label. Make certain that properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque”in the Index. R,,t or airt on a w t J , or on the parts to which it is fastened, canmake wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where thewheel attaches to the vehicle.
Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. Make sure the replacementsare the samesize, load range, speed rating andconstruction type (bias, bias-belted or radial) as youroriginal tires. A CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tiresof different sizes or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash.
-- excessive loading, either separately or in combination, Traction A, B, C can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure. The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are A, B, and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance pavement as measured under controlled conditionson specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.
If you need toreplace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts.This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for your Geo model. Using the wrongr,,lac,-nent wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affectthe braking andhandling of your vehicle, make your tireslose air and makeyou lose control. You could havea collision in which you or otherscould be injured.
Tire Chains I NOTICE: Use tire chainsonly where legal and only when you must. Use only SAE Class “S” type chains that are the proper size for yourtires. Install them on the front tires and tighten themas tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain manufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear the chains contacting yourvehicle, stop and retighten them. If the contact continues,slow down until it stops.
Cleaning the Insideof Your Geo Using Foam-Type Cleaneron Fabric Use a vacuum cleaner often to get ridof dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinylor leather with a clean, damp cloth. 1. Vacuum and brushthe area to remove any Your Chevroiet/Geo dealer has two GMcleaners, a solvent-type spot lifter and a foam-type powdered cleaner. They will clean normalspots and stains very well. Do not use them on vinyl or leather. 2. Always clean a whole trim panel or section. Mask surrounding trim along stitch or welt lines.
Using Solvent-Type Cleaner on Fabric Special Cleaning Problems First, seeif you have to use solvent-type cleaner at all. Greasy or Oily Stains off better withjust Some spots and stains will clean Stains causedby grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe water and mild soap. polish, coffeewith cream, chewing gum, cosmetic If you need to usea solvent: creams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt can Gently scrape excess soil from the trim material with be removed as follows: a clean, dull knifeor scraper.
Non-Greasy Stains Cleaning Vinyl Stains causedby catsup, coffee (black),egg, fruit, fruit Use warm water and a clean cloth. juice, milk, soft drinks, wine, vomit, urine and blood can Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt.You be removed as follows: may have to do it more than once. 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge the 0 Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if soiled area withcool water. you don’t get themoff quickly. Use a clean cloth and 2.
Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use only-mild soap and water to clean the top surfaces of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones or waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions. Cleaningthe Built-Ir Chi1 R itraint Your built-in child restraint may be clc ea with mild soap and lukewarm water. Don’t use household cleaners. They may weaken the harness or damage plastic parts.
Cleaning the Outsideof the Windshield and Wiper Blades If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer, orif the wiper blade chatters when running, wax or other material may be on the blade or windshield. Clean the outsideof the windshield with GM Windshield Cleaner, Bon-Ami Powder@(GM Part No. 1050011). The windshield is cleanif beads do not form when you rinse it with water. Clean the blade by wiping vigorously with a cloth soaked in full-strength windshield washer solvent.
Finish Care ’ Occasional waxing or mild polishingof your Geo by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.) Your Geo has a “basecoat/clearcoat” paint finish. The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are non-abrasive ind made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish.
Tires Sheet Metal Damage To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. If your vehicleis damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion materialto the parts repairedor replaced to restore corrosion protection. NOTICE: When applying a tire dressing always take care to wipe off any overspray or splash from all painted surfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle. Petroleum-based productsmay damage the paint finish.
Underbody Maintenance Chemical Paint Spotting Chemicals usedfor ice and snow removal and dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the underbody parts such asfuel lines, frame, floor pan and exhaust system even though they have corrosion protection. Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on your vehicle.
Appearance Care Materials Chart 6-53
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Engine Identification The eighth character in your VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your engine, specifications and replacement parts. SAMPLE4UXTM072675 kd Service Parts Identification Label You’ll find this label on your spare tire cover. It’s very helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is: 0 your VIN, the model designation, This is the legal identifier for your Geo.
Electrical System Add-on Ele -?it 1 E ---lipment I NOTICE: Don’t add anything electricalto your Geo unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other components from workingas they should. Headlamps The headlamp wiringis protected by a circuit breaker. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some casesto remain off.
. \ , . t' _ _ , Driver's Side Instrument Panel Fuse Block uses and,Circuit Breakers ' ' i ' , !I I '. The wiring circuitsin your vehicle are proteciedfrom short circuits by fuses, circuit breakers and fusible. thehal links in' the wiring itself. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrica1,problerhs. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you replace a bad fuse witha new one of the correct size. If you.
3. STOP: Stoplamps, High-Mounted Stoplamp, Cruise Control System, Automatic Transmission Shift Lock System, Anti-Lock Brake System 4. Not Used 5 . CIG and RADIO: Cigarette Lighter, Digital Clock Display, Air ConditioningSystem, Radio, Cassette Tape Player, Power Rear View Mirrors, Automatic Transmission Shift Lock System, Theft-Deterrent System, Airbags 9. TAIL: Taillamps, Parking Lamps, License Plate Lamps, Instrument Panel Lights, Daytime Running Lamp System 10.
Engine CompartmentFuse Block Most of your fuses are in the fuse block. Some arein two electrical centers in your engine compartment. These electrical centers, plusa component center behind your glove box, also have relays, circuit breakers and other electrical components. The larger electrical center in the engine compartment hasa fuse puller attached to the inside of the cover. You can use the pullerto remove any fuses. 2. HAZ-HORN: Emergency Flashers, Horns 3. AM 2: Starting System 4.
Engine Compartment Fuse Block (Passenger’s Side) Engine Compartment Fuse/Relay Block 4 1. CDS 1. DRL NO. 2 2. ACMG 2. HEAD (LH-UPR): Left-Hand Headlamp (high beam) 3. HEAD (LH-LWR): Left-Hand Headlamp 3. AC FAN NO. 3: Air Conditioner Fan Relay #3 4. AC FAN NO. 2: Air ConditionerFan Relay #2 (low beam) 4. HEAD (RH-UPR): Right-Hand Headlamp (high beam) 5 .
Passenger SideKick Panel (2j 0’ 1. A/C: Air Conditioning System 2. 40 A: Air Conditioning System 6-60 There is one fuse located underneath the carpet on the passenger’s sideof the vehicle: 1 1.
Replacement Bulbs Number Bulb Back-up ............................... 1156 Headlamp (High Beam) ................... 9005 GM Part No . 94853786 or equivalent Headlamp (Low Beam) ................... 9006 GM Part No . 94853787 or equivalent Center High-Mounted Stop ................. 921 Stoplamp ................................ 74 LicensePlate ............................ 168 ParkingLamp ............................ 168 GM Part No . 14245289 or equivalent Bulb Number Sidemarker Front . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Capacities and Specifications Engine Replacement Parts Type .................................... L4 Compression Ratio ....................... 9.5: 1 Firingorder .......................... 1-3-4-2 Fuel Delivery ........... Multi-Port Fuel Injection Piston Displacement VIN Engine Code6 . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 CID (1.6L) VINEngine Code 8 ............. 108 CID (1.8L) ValveArrangement ........ Double Overhead Cam Thermostat Temperature Specification ...................180°F (82°C) Air Cleaner Filter ......
Capacities (Approximate) The following approximate capacities are given U.S. in and metric conversions. Air Conditioning? . . . See the refrigerant information Crankcase label under the hood. VIN Engine Code 6 Automatic Transaxle Oil Change With Filter* ...... 3.2 quarts (3.0 L) 3-Speed .................. 2.6 quarts (2.5 L) ** Oil Change Without Filter* ... 3.0 quarts (2.8 L) 4-Speed .................. 3.5 quarts (3.3 L) ** Vin Engine Code8 Differential (3-speed only) . . , . 1.5 quarts (1.
Vehicle Dimensions Wheelbase .............. 97.1 inches (2 465 m) Tread Front ......... ...... 57.5 inches (1 460 mm) .... 57.1 inches (1 450 mm) Rear ........... Length ................ 173.0 inches (4 395 mm) Width .................. 66.3 inches (1 685 mm) Height .................. 53.3 inches (1 355 mm) 6-64 Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used.
NOTES 6-65
NOTES
~- GL - Section 7 MaintenanceSchedule Introduction IMPORTANT: KEEP ENGINE OIL AT THE PROPER LEVEL AND CHANGE P RECOMMENDED Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance procedures are important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even This section covers the maintenance requiredfor your affect the qualityof the air we breathe. Improper fluid Geo.
How This Section is Organized The remainder of this sectionis divided intofive parts: “Part A: Scheduled MaintenanceServices” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services canbe complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service department or another qualified service centerdo these jobs. Performing maintenanc, work on a vehicle can be dangerous.In tryingto do some jobs, you can be seriously injured.
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Part D. Make sure whoever services your vehicle uses these. All parts should be replaced andall necessary repairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle. These schedulesare for vehicles that: We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we don’t know carry passengers and cargo within recommended limits.
Maintenance Schedule I I TriplCity Short Definition ~~ ~~ Short TriplCity Intervals ~ Follow the Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule if any Every 3,000 Miles (5 000 km): Engine Oil and Filter Change (or 3 months, whichever occurs first). one of these conditionsis true for your vehicle: Every 6,000 Miles (10 000 km): Chassis Lubrication 0 Most trips are less than5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). (or 6 months, whichever occurs first), Tire Rotation.
Maintenance Schedule I I Trip/City Intervals Short ____ ~ ~~ ~~ ~ ~~~ At 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) (Or 48 Months, Whichever Occurs First) Then Every 15,000 Miles (25000 km) (Or 12 Months Whichever Occurs First):Engine Accessory Drive Belt Inspection. These intervals only summarize maintenanceservices. Be sure tofollow the complete maintenance scheduleon the following pages. -- Follow this maintenance schedule only if none of the conditions from the Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule is true.
Maintenance Schedule ; -. . I .I , d Every 7,500 Miles (12500 km):Engine Oil and Filter Change (or every12 months, whichever occurs first). ' Chassis Lubrication (or every12 months, 'whichever occurs first). Tire Rotation. Every 15,000 Miles (25000 km): Automatic Transaxle . ,Fluid Change (severe conditions only). Automatic Transaxle Fluid Check (normal conditions). Every. 30,000 Miles (50 000 km): Spark Plug Replacement. Air Cleaner Filter Replacement.
I Shqrt Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 3,000 Miles (5000 km) The services shownin this schedule up to100,000miles (166 000 km) should be performed after100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals. Footnotes 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An EmissionControl Service. The U.S.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) 9,000 Miles (15 000 km) 0 Change engine oil andfilter (or every 0Change engine oiland filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 12,000 Miles (20 000 km) 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0 Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0 Rotate tires.
I Short “‘rip/City Maintenance Schedule I 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) (Continued) - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, check thefluid. 18,000 Miles (30 000 km) 0 Change engineoil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission ControlSewice.
I I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 21,000 Miles (35 000 km) 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 0 Change engine oil and filter (or 3 months, whichever occursfirst). every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission ControlService. An Emission ControlService. 0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY: underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule :27,000Miles (45,000km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every . I 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission &ontrol.Service. 0Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage(or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). Replace spark plugs. . An Emission Control Service.
Short Trip/City Maintenance’ Schedule 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. 0Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 24months, whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use.Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressurecap and neck.
I I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 33,000 Miles (55 000 km) 36,000 Miles (60 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0 lange engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact pointsand linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfist). 0 Rotate tires.
I 1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 39,000 Miles (65000 km) 42,000 Miles (70 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0 Change engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission ControlService. An Emission ControlService. 0 Lubricate the parking.brake cable guides, underbody contact points andlinkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
Short TripdCity Maintenance Schedule I 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as foundin taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not useyour vehicle under anyof these conditions, check the fluid. 3 months, whicheveroccurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Change automatic transaxle and differential . . .
I I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 48,000 Miles (80 000 km) 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) 17 Change engine oil and filter (or every Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0 Rotate tires.
I ShortTrip/CityMaintenanceSchedule I 57,000 Miles (95000 km) 54,000 Miles (90 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every Change engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). 3 months, whicheveroccurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0 Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) 0Change engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect engine accessory drive belts (or every 48 months, whichever occurs first).
. 'wShortTrip/CityMaintenance Schedule i, . 60,000 Miles (100 000 km).(Corttinued) ' 0Inspect evaporative emissions canister for . .. ~ damage or clogging (or every 72 months, whichever occurs first). Clean with compressed air or replace if necessary. An Emission Control Service. 0Drain, flush andrefill cooling system I I (or every24 months, whichever occurs first). See "Engine Coolant" in the Indexfor what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 63,000 Miles (105 000 km) 66,000 Miles (110 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 69,000 Miles (115000 km) 72,000 Miles (120 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whicheveroccurs first). 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission ControlService. An Emission Control Service. 0 Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0 Rotate tires.
1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect engine accessory drive belts (or 12 months since last inspection). An Emission ControlService. 0Change automatic transaxle and differential In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
‘1 ShortTrip/CityMaintenanceSchedule ‘78,000Miles (130 000 km) 81,000 Miles (135 000 km) 0 Change 0Change engine oil and filter (or every ‘ engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 3 months, whichever occursfirst). I Cl Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, 1 I An Emission Control Service. .underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). Rotate tires.
1 Short, Wip/City Maintenance Schedule 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) Change engihe oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission ControlService. 0 Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, I 87,000 Miles (145 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission ControlService. I underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0Inspect engine accessory drive belts (or every 12 months since last inspection). An Emission Control Service. 0Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 1 93,000 Miles (155000 km) 0Change au-tomatictransaxle and differential fluid every 15,000 miles (25 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where theoutside temperature regularly reaches 90 O F (32°C) or higher. - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 96,000 Miles (160 000 km) Change engineoil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. I 99,000 Miles (165 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage(or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). 0 Rotate tires.
I LongTrip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule 1 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals. 0Change engine oil and filter (or every Footnotes 0Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, The U.S.
- ung TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule ’ 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 17 Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipersfor freedom of movement.
LongTripiHighwayMaintenanceSchedule ~ 1 22,500 Miles (37 500 km) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, 0Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 0Rotate tires.
I Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) (Continued) 0Inspect fuel tank, cap, cap gasket and lines for damage orleaks (or every24 months, whichever occurs first). Replace parts as needed. An EmissionControl Service. 0Drain, flush andrefill cooling system (or every 24 months, whichever occursfirst). See “Engine Coolant” in the Indexfor what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressurecap and neck. Pressure test cooling system and pressure cap.
I LongTrip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule I 37,500 Miles (62 500 km) - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under anyof these conditions, check the fluid. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission ControlSewice. 0Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). Rotate tires.
I Long TriplHighwy Maintenance Schedule I 45,000 Miles (75000 km) 17 Change engine oil and filter (or every Change automatic transaxle and differential fluid every 15,000 miles (25 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under oneor more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches90 O F (32 O C) or higher. - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequenttrailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
I Long Trip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule 52,500 Miles (87500 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. I 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) 0Change engine oil andfilter (or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the parkingbrake cable guides, 0Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). 0Rotate tires.
Long, Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule I 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) (Continued) 0Replace aircleaner filter (or every 24 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect fuel tank, cap, cap gasket and lines for damage or leaks (or every 24 months, whichever occurs first). Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. 3- 0Inspect for tappet noise andengine vibration, adjustvalve clearance to factory specifications if necessary (or every 72 months, whichever occursfirst).
Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule 67,500Miles (112 500 km) 0Change.automatic transaxle and differential 0Change engineoil and filter (or every fluid every 15,000 miles (25 000 km)if the 12 months, whichever occursfirst). vehicle i’s mainly driven under one or more of these Conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches90oF (32O C ) or higher. - In hilly or mountainous terrain.. - When doing frequent trailer towing.
I LongTrip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule 1 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission ControlSewice. 0Lubricate the parking brakecable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” inthe Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brakecalipers for freedom of movement.
rn , , ~ ~ ~~~~~~ Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule 1 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 12 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, 0Lubricate the parking brake cable guides, underbody contact points and linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
I LongTrip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule 1 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) (Continued) 0Inspect engine accessorydrive belts (or 12 months since last inspection). An Emission Control Service. 0Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 24 months, whichever occursfirst). See “Engine Coolant” in the Indexfor what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressurecap and neck. Pressure test cooling system and pressure cap. An Emission Control Service.
I Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schsdule ’ If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions,check the, fluid. . . 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspectionand Rotation” in the Indexfor proper rotatian pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipersfor freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manualfor proper caliper service procedures. ~~~ 37,500 Miles (162 500 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check Listed beloware owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Check the windshield washer fluid levelin the windshield washer tank and add the proper fluid if necessary. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index for further details. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Automatic Transaxle Check Check the transaxle fluid level; add if needed. See Restraint System Check “Automatic Transaxle”in the Index. A fluid loss Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your may indicate a problem: Check the system and repair belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are if needed. working properly. Lookfor any other loose or damaged At Least Once a Year safety belt system parts.
Starter Switch Check I A CAUTION: W,,,n you -re doing this check, the vehicle could you or others could be move suddenly. If it does, injured. Follow the steps below. Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI) Check (Automatic Transaxle) I A CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly.If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow thesteps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 1.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. Steering Column Lock Check While parked, and withthe parking brake set, try to turn the key to LOCK in each shift lever position. To check the parking brake: With the engine running and transaxle in NEUTRAL(N), slowly removefoot pressure fromthe regular brake pedal.Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
out-of-position partsas well as open seams, holes, loose C O M ~ O I I S or other conditions which could cause a heat build-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust fumes into Listed below are inspections and services which should the vehicle. See “Engine Exhaust”in the Index. be performedat least twice a year (for instance, each Radiator and Heater Hose Inspection spring and fall).
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants USAGE Hydraulic Brake NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, System part number or specification may be obtained from your GM dealer. Hydraulic Clutch System USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Power Steering Engine Oil Engine oil with the American System Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” Manual symbol of the proper viscosity. To Transaxle determine the preferred viscosity for your vehicle’s engine,see “Engine Oil” in the Index.
USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Clutch Linkage Pivot Points Lithium base grease. Floor Shift Linkage Lubriplate Lubricant aerosol(GM Part No. 12346293 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI Grade2 Category LB or GC-LB. Chassis Lubrication Chassis lubricant (GM Part No. 1052497 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirementsof NLGI Grade 2, CategoryLB or GC-LB. Windshield Washer Solvent GM Optikleen@ Washer Solvent (GMPart No. 1051515) or equivalent.
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided afterthe maintenance interval. Any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts.Your owner information portfolio is a convenient place to store them.
Maintenance Record
Maintenance Record DATE ODOMETER READING BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED SERVICED 7-51
Maintenance Record DATE 7-52 ODOMETER READING BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED SERVICED
Gem Section 8 CustomerAssistanceInformation Here you will find out how to contact Chevrolet/Geo if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects.
. . I I .. . . . Your satisfaction and goodwill are importantto your '..: dealer and Chevrolet/Geo. Normally, any concern you -".:' . . may have with your vehicle can be handled byyour :'; selling or servicing dealer.Your dealer has the facility, . .trained technicians,-specialtaols and up-to-date :. .: information to promptly addressany issue which may . * .): arise. Chevrolet/Geo hasempowered'its dealers to make ' . any decisions and repair vehicles, and they are eager to :-.
For prompt assistance, please have the following information available to give the Customer Assistance Representative: 0 Your name, address, home and business telephone numbers 0 Vehicle Identification Number (This is available from the vehicle registrationor title, or the plate at the topleft of the instrument panel and visible through the windshield.
Chevrolet/Geo Roadside :Assistance .Program Roadside Assistanceis available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by calling 1-'800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872). This toll-free numberwill provide you over-the-phone roadside assistance with minor mechanical problems.If your problem cannot be resolved over the phone, our advisors have access to a nationwide networkof dealer recommended service providers. Roadside membershipis free, however some services may incur costs.
0 FREE Flat Tire Service (spare installed on the road) 0 FREE Jump Start (at homeor on the road) FREE Fuel Delivery ($5 of fuel delivered on the road) Chevrolet/Geo offers Courtesy Transportationfor customers needing warranty service. Courtesy Transportation willbe offered in conjunction with the coverage provided bythe Bumper-to-Bumper New Vehicle Limited Warrantyto eligible purchasers of 1996 Chevrolet/Geo passengercar and light duty trucks. (Please see your selling dealerfor details.
Up to $10 daily fuel allowancefor rides provided by another person (i.e.,friend, neighbor, etc.) in lieu Vehicles purchasedin Canada have an extensive of rental for any overnight warranty repairup to Roadside Assistance program accessible from anywhere five days. in Canada or the UnitedStates. Please refer to the NOTE: All Courtesy Transportation arrangements separate brochure provided by the dealer or call will be administered by your Chevrolet/Geo dealer 1-800-268-6800 for emergency services.
For warranty repairs during the Complete Vehicle Coverage period inthe New Vehicle Limited Warranty, interim transportation may be available under the Courtesy Transportation Program. Please consult your dealer for details. The Roadside Assistance programis available only in the United States and Canada. There may be instances where an impartial third party can assist in arriving at a solution to a disagreement of the New regarding vehicle repairs or interpretation Vehicle Limited Warranty.
To file a claim, you will be asked to provide your name REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS and address, your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) TO THE UNITED STATES and a statementof the natureof your complaint. Eligibility is limited by vehicle age and mileage, and GOVERNMENT other factors.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO Service and Owner Publications THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT If you live in Canada,and you believe that your vehicle has a safety defect,you should immediately notify Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General Motors of Canada Limited. You may write to: Transport Canada Box 8880 Ottawa, OntarioKlG 3J2 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situationlike this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us.
Service Manuals Service manuals contain diagnostic and repair information for all chassis and body systems. They may be useful for owners who wish to get a greater understanding of their vehicle. They are also useful for owners with the appropriate skill level or training who wish to perform“do-it-yourself’ service. These are authentic General Motors service manuals meant for professional, qualified technicians.
Section 9 Index A i r Bag ...................................... 1.17 How Does it Restrain .......................... 1-21 How it Works ................................ 1. 19 1-19 Location .................................... 1 .18. 2.45 Readiness Light ......................... 1-22 Servicing ................................... What Makes it Inflate.......................... 1-20 What Will You See Afterit Inflates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21 When Should it Inflate .........................
Brakes. Anti-Lock .................... ........4-6 Braking ........................................4-5 Braking in Emergencies ........................... 4-8 Break-In.NewVehicle ...........................2-8 BTSI .........................................2-21 BTSICheck ................................... 7-44 Built-In Child Restraint ..........................1-30 Adjusting the Harness Height ................... 1-32 Removing the Child ...........................1-42 Securing ...............................
Cruise Control ................................. 2-28 2-31 Ending Out of ................................ Erasing Speed Memory ........................ 2-31 Increasing Speed While Using ................... 2-31 Passing Another Vehicle While Using .. .......... 2-31 Reducing Speed While Using ...................2-31 Resuming a Set Speed ......................... 2-30 2-29 Setting ..................................... Using On Hills ................................2-31 Cupholder ..............................
Engine Oil ...................................... 6-9 Adding ..................................... 6-10 . . . Additives ................................... 6- 13 .. Checking ................................... 6-10 2-52 PressureLight ................................ L 6-14 'Used ...................................... What Kind to Use ................... 6-11.6-12. 6-13 ....... 6-14 'When to Change ....................... 6-3 Ethan01 ........................................ 2-22 Exhaust. Engine .............
Hitches. Trailer ................................. Hood Checking Things Under ......................... Latch Operation' Check ........................ Prop ........................................ Release ........................................ Horn .......................................... Hydroplaning .................................. 4-33 6-6 7-42 6-7 6-6 2-24 4-18 2-8 Ignition Positions ............................... 6-38 Inflation, Tire ...................................
Locks .........................................2-3 Cylinder .................................... 7-43 Door ........................................ 2-3 7-43 Key Lock Cylinder Service ..................... PowerDoor ..................................2-4 Rear Door Security .............................2-4 Remote Trunk Release .......................... 2-7 Steering Column Lock Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-45 Trunk Release ................................. 2-6 Low Gear. Automatic Transaxle ...
P a i n t Spotting. Chemical ........................ 6-52 Park Automatic Transaxle .......................... 2- 12 Shifting Into ................................. 2 4 9 Shifting Out of ............................... 2-21 Parking AtNight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-7 Brake ......................................2-18 Brake Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-45 Lamp Bulb Replacement ....................... 6-34 On Hills with a Trailer . .
Restraints 1-30 Built-In Child ................................ Checking ................................... 1-54 Child ....................................... 1-44 1-4 Head ........................................ Replacing Parts After a Crash ................... 1-55 System Check ................................ 7-43 Reverse. Automatic Transaxle ..................... 2- 13 Reverse. Manual Transaxle ....................... 2- 17 Right Front Passenger Position .................... 1-23 Roadside Assistance .
Sheet Metal Damage ............................ 6-51 Shift Lever ............................... 2- 12. 2.16 Shiftspeeds ................................... 2-17 Shifting Into Park (P) ................................ .'2-19 Manual Transaxle ............................. 2-16 2-21 Out of Park (P) ............................... Signaling Turns ................................ 2-26 Skidding ....................................... 4-13 3-17 Sound Equipment. Adding ........................ Spare Tire.
Trailer Backing Up .................................. . Brakes ....................................... Driving on Grades ............................ Driving with .................................. FollowingDistance ........................... Hitches ........................................ Maintenance When Towing ..................... Making Turns ................................ . . . Parking on Hills .............................. . . Passing- ...................................... . . Safety Chains ...