Bumper-to-Bumper 4-years/50,000 miles (80 000 km) Limited Warranty Every 2000 Escalade under warranty is backed with the following services: 1-800-882-1112 that provides in an emergency: Courtesy Transportation Free lockout assistance Free dead-battery assistance Free out-of-fuel assistance Free flat-tire change Emergency towing
2000 Cadillac Escalade Owner's Manual Litho in U.S.A.
Table of Contents Seats and Restraint Systems Section 1 Seats and Seat Controls Safety Belts Air Bag System Child Restraints Features and Controls Section 2 ii Keys and Door Locks Keyless Entry System Tailgate Automatic Transmission (If Equipped) Manual Transmission Operation (If Equipped) Four-Wheel Drive Operation (If Equipped) Parking Brake Windows Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Windshield Wipers Cruise Control Interior and Exterior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Convenience Net/Car
Table of Contents (cont'd) Comfort Controls and Audio Systems Section 3 Heating and Air Conditioning Setting the Radio Clock Radio/Cassette Player/CD Player Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature Your Driving and the Road Section 4 Braking/Anti-lock Brakes (If Equipped) Steering Driving Tips for Various Road Conditions Off-Road Driving Recreational Vehicle Towing Loading Your Vehicle Towing a Trailer Problems on the Road Section 5 Hazard Warning Flashers Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating C
Table of Contents (cont'd) Service and Appearance Care Section 6 Fuel Checking Fluids and Lubricants Bulb Replacement Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Tires and Wheels Appearance Care Electrical System/Fuses and Circuit Breakers Capacities and Specifications Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Maintenance Schedule Section 7 iv Scheduled Maintenance Periodic Maintenance Inspections Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Maintenance Records
Table of Contents (cont'd) Customer Assistance Information Section 8 Customer Satisfaction Procedures Customer Assistance Offices Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation Warranty Information (See Warranty Manual) Reporting Safety Defects on page 7-10 Service Publications Index Section 9 In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.
We support voluntary technician certification. GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, CADILLAC, the CADILLAC Crest & Wreath and the name ESCALADE are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes 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 your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it.
Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words.
Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.
Service Station Guide Cooling System Battery For a More Detailed Look at What's Under the Hood See Section 5 Tire Pressure See Section 6 See Section 6 Spare Tire Pressure See Section 5 See Section 6 Hood Release See Section 6 Windshield Washer Fluid See Section 6 Engine Oil Dipstick See Section 6 Fuel Use unleaded gas only, 87 Octane or higher.
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them and fold them up and down. It also tells you about reclining front seatbacks and head restraints. Power Seats You can use the round center knob to move the seat to where you want it. To raise the seat, move the knob up. To lower the seat, move the knob down. To move the seat forward or rearward, move the knob toward the front of the vehicle or toward the rear. You can also raise and lower the front and rear of the seat.
Power Lumbar Control Heated Front Seats Your vehicle has a power lumbar control. You can increase or decrease lumbar support in an area of the lower seatback. The control for the driver’s side heated seat is located on the left side of the seat. The control for the right front passenger is located on the right side of the passenger seat. Move the switch forward to MED or HIGH temperature to turn on the heating elements in the seat.
Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, move the lever rearward. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Move the lever again rearward and the seatback will go to an upright position. 1-4 But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
Head Restraints CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen.
2. Then, pull the seat cushion up and fold it forward. Folding the Rear Seat Your vehicle has a 60/40 rear seat. Either side may be folded down to give you more cargo space. Before folding, place the latch portion of the center safety belt in the center armrest. That way, the center safety belt will be out of the way when the seat is folded and also will be easily available for passengers to use when the seat is returned to the passenger position.
5. Pull the seatback forward and fold the seatback down until it is flat. 6. Then, stow the head restraints by sliding them into the rear of the seat cushion. Make sure the posts go in all the way. To return the seat to the passenger position, use the following procedure. 2. Lift the seatback up enough to install the head restraints. 3. Push the seatback rearward all the way. 4. Lower the seat cushion until it latches in position. 5.
Heated Rear Seats Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone The controls for the heated rear seats are located on the rear of the center floor console, below the rear seat audio controls. This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the air bag system. CAUTION: Press the top of the switch to HI or the bottom of the switch to LO to turn on the heating elements in the outside rear seat positions.
In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. CAUTION: It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly. You never know if you’ll be in a crash.
Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. Put someone on it. Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. To move it down, push in at the word PRESS and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without pushing in to make sure it has locked into position.
Q: What’s wrong with this? 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 is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests. A: The belt is over an armrest.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen. A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. A: The belt is twisted across the body.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section.
CAUTION: Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. How the Air Bag System Works The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information. Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering. The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
When should an air bag inflate? What makes an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range.
What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag -- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch.
NOTICE: If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.
Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Q: If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags from working properly? A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash. Q: Is there anything I might add to the front of the vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly? A: Yes.
Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section.
3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
Each position next to the windows has a shoulder belt height adjuster. Move the shoulder belt height adjuster to the height that is right for you. To move the height adjuster down, push in at the word PRESS and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without pushing in to make sure it has locked into position.
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat.
1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the side of the seatback. 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.
3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top. 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Slide the guide onto the storage clip.
Center Passenger Position Lap Belt When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies CAUTION: To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries.
CAUTION: (Continued) at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint. CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it.
Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. Q: What are the different types of add-on child restraints? A: Add-on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.
A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear-facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash. Some infant seats come in two parts -- the base stays secured in the vehicle and the seat part is removable.
A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward-facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age. One type, a convertible restraint, is designed to be used either as a rear-facing infant seat or a forward-facing child seat.
When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury.
Top Strap CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go.
Anchor brackets for the rear outside seat positions are located on the floor in the cargo area. CAUTION: Routing the top strap for a child restraint over or under the cargo security shade could cause the shade to come loose and even break. If this happens, the shade could be thrown about the vehicle in a collision or sudden maneuver. You or others could be injured. When anchoring a top strap to a cargo tiedown, be sure to remove the cargo security shade from your vehicle.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. 2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint.
4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.
5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat. 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.
5. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way.
Larger Children If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. D Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. D Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.
CAUTION: Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.
CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs.
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit.
Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
Keys CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition and all door locks. If you ever lose your key, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining a new one. Your vehicle also has a key that locks and unlocks the center floor console only. Your vehicle also has an emergency key that operates the ignition and all door locks. Store the key in a safe place outside of the vehicle.
Door Locks To lock the door from the inside, slide the lever down. CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked.
Power Door Locks Press the side of the power door lock switch marked LOCK located on either front door to lock all the doors at once. Press the ribbed side of the switch to unlock all the doors at once. The power door locks will operate at any time. Operating the power locks may affect the theft-deterrent system. See “Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index. On the passenger side of the rear panel door or tailgate, there is a power lock switch which can be used to lock or unlock all of the doors.
Rear Door Security Locks With this feature, you can lock the rear side doors so they can’t be opened from the inside by passengers. Lockout Prevention This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle, by stopping the power door locks from locking when the key is in the ignition in OFF and a door is open. If the power door lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, none of the doors will lock.
Keyless Entry System You can lock and unlock your doors, tailgate or panel doors from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation Alarm/Panic Mode The driver’s door will unlock automatically when UNLOCK is pressed. If UNLOCK is pressed again within five seconds, the passenger’s doors will also unlock. All doors will lock when LOCK is pressed. The theft-deterrent system provides a fourth button on your transmitter. This button is the alarm/panic button. If you are involved in a panic situation, press this button and your vehicle’s horn will sound and the headlamps will flash.
Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched.
Battery Replacement To replace the battery: Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery. NOTICE: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry.
Resynchronization Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal it has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter. To resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your vehicle and simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter for at least eight seconds.
Tailgate Glass and Tailgate (If Equipped) If your vehicle has a tailgate, you must raise the rear glass before lowering the tailgate. Use your key to open the glass from the outside. Then lift the glass up. To release the glass from the inside, use the electric tailgate glass release switch on the instrument panel. For more information, see “Tailgate, Glass Release” in the Index. To open the tailgate, lift up on the handle while pulling the tailgate toward you.
To close the doors, close the driver’s side door first. After securely closing the door, close the passenger’s side door. Make sure both doors are latched securely. To lock the rear doors from outside the vehicle, put your key in the lock and turn it clockwise. If you have power door locks, you can lock the side doors as well as the rear doors from inside the vehicle. For more information, see “Power Door Locks” in this section.
Theft-Deterrent System Your vehicle has a theft-deterrent alarm system. Once armed, the system will sound the horn and flash the parking lamps if the vehicle is tampered with. Opening the doors may activate the alarm. See “Disarming the System” later in this section for further information on turning the system off. The adjustment for the shock sensor sensitivity can be accessed through a hole in the forward wall of the main bin of the center floor console.
Arming the System Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Locking The alarm system can be armed to detect break-ins by locking your vehicle using the keyless entry or by locking the doors with the power door lock switch. If all the doors are closed, locking the vehicle with the transmitter will immediately arm the system. If any door is open when the transmitter LOCK button is pressed, the system goes into an armed wait mode, waiting for the doors to close.
Passive Arming Turning Off the Alarm If the ignition was just turned off and a door was opened, the system will arm six seconds after the doors, tailgate or panel doors are closed. If a door is opened without the ignition being turned on, the system will wait 30 seconds after the doors, tailgate or panel doors are closed before arming. This provides time to get into the vehicle and put the key in the ignition. The parking lamps will flash when the system arms.
Driver’s Door Alarm Delay 3. Turn the ignition to OFF. The alarm will sound eight seconds after the driver’s door is opened with your key. 4. Remove fuse 17. This fuse is in the main fuse block, located on the left side of your instrument panel. When the main fuse block is open, the RADIO fuse (Fuse 17) is located in the lower right corner side of the fuse panel. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.
Lockout Prevention Keyless Entry Verification With this feature, the power door locks will not lock when the key is in the ignition in the OFF position and a door is open. This means that when you use the keyless entry transmitter to lock/unlock your vehicle, your headlamps and parking lamps will flash briefly when you press LOCK once. Your horn will sound briefly and your headlamps and parking lamps will flash briefly when you press LOCK a second time.
Mode 4: Lamps (Your headlamps and parking lamps will flash every time you press LOCK or UNLOCK.) Mode 5: Lamps/Horn and Lamps/Lamps (Your headlamps and parking lamps will flash upon the first press on LOCK, your headlamps and parking lamps will flash and your horn will sound upon the second press on LOCK and your headlamps and parking lamps will flash upon any press on UNLOCK.) Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 5. To change the mode: 1.
To change the mode: 1. Press the UNLOCK switch on the door. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. 3. Press the UNLOCK switch on the door until you hear the number of chimes that correspond to the mode selection you want. The mode you select is now set. You can either exit the programming mode by following the instructions later in this section or program the next feature available on your vehicle.
3. Press the LOCK button on the keyless entry transmitter until you hear the number of chimes that corresponds to the mode selection you want. During normal operation, the SECURITY light will go off approximately five seconds after the key is turned to the RUN ignition position. The mode you select is now set. You can either exit the programming mode by following the instructions later in this section or program any of the previously mentioned features on your vehicle.
New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Positions NOTICE: Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: D Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (805 km). D Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. D Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in.
LOCK (B): This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transmission. It’s a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. NOTICE: OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being pushed). RUN (D): This is the position for driving.
Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. How to Start the Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START.
NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The engine coolant heater electrical cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the power steering reservoir. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. CAUTION: Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured.
Automatic Transmission Operation PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. CAUTION: There are several different positions for your shift lever. Your vehicle features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of PARK (P).
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. CAUTION: NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transmission. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
B AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: D Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. B AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ) can be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for off-road driving.
Four-Wheel Drive Your vehicle has four-wheel drive. You can send your engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. To get the most satisfaction out of four-wheel drive, you must be familiar with its operation. Read the section that follows before using four-wheel drive. You should use 2HI for most normal driving conditions. NOTICE: Driving in the 4HI or 4LO positions for a long time on dry or wet pavement could shorten the life of your vehicle’s drivetrain.
The transfer case switches are below and to the left of the climate controls. Use these switches to shift into and out of four-wheel drive. You can choose among four driving settings: 2HI: This setting is used for driving in most situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. This setting also provides the best fuel economy. AUTO 4WD: This setting is ideal for use when road conditions are variable.
If the SERVICE 4WD light stays on, you should take your vehicle to your dealer for service. See “Service 4WD” in the Index for further information. Shifting to 4HI or AUTO 4WD Press and release the 4HI or AUTO 4WD switch. This can be done at any speed, and the indicator light will flash while shifting. It will remain illuminated when the shift is completed. Shifting to 2HI Press and release the 2HI switch. This can be done at any speed.
Shifting to NEUTRAL Shifting Out of NEUTRAL To shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL, first make sure the vehicle is parked so that it will not roll: To shift out of NEUTRAL: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Start the vehicle. 1. Set the parking brake and apply the regular brake pedal. 3. Connect the vehicle to the towing vehicle. 2. Start the vehicle with the transmission in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). 4. Put the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). 3. Shift the transmission to REVERSE (R). 5.
Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the lever, located just above the parking brake pedal, marked BRAKE RELEASE, to release the parking brake. 2-34 If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off.
Shifting Into PARK (P) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running CAUTION: D Move the lever up as far as it will go. 3. Be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL. 4. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 5. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P). 2-36 It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running.
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and the parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you move the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust CAUTION: CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. 2-38 Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: D Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. D Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if ever you have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage.
Locking Rear Axle Your locking rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and the other does, this feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle. Windows Power Windows The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger windows as well.
Electric Tailgate Glass Release (If Equipped) Before operating your electric tailgate glass release, see “Rear Doors” in the the Index. Your vehicle has the theft-deterrent system. If it is armed, use the transmitter, not the key, to open the tailgate or the alarm will sound. The hatch switch will not work while the system is armed. See “Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index. The electric hatch release button lets you release the tailgate glass. To release the glass, press the top of the button.
Multifunction Lever Turn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically. An arrow located on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, pull the turn signal lever all the way toward you. Then release it. When the high beams are on, this light located on the instrument panel also will be on. Windshield Wipers You operate the windshield wipers by turning the control with the wiper symbol on it located on the multifunction lever. For a single wiping cycle, turn the control to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go.
Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever, there’s a paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. CAUTION: Rear Window Wiper and Washer (If Equipped) The rear window wiper/washer switch is located on your instrument panel, to the right of the gage cluster. In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.
To wash the window, push in on the switch. Window washer fluid will continue to spray until the switch is released. The wiper will continue with three more wipes and then return to the setting that was chosen before the lever was pushed. The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as the front windshield washer. If the fluid level is low in the washer fluid bottle, you may not be able to wash your rear window. If you can wash your windshield, but not your rear window, check the fluid level.
Setting Cruise Control CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control. 1. Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Push in the SET button at the end of the lever and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: 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. D Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Push the SET button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.
Erasing Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased. Exterior Lamps Turn the knob clockwise, to the parking lamp symbol, to turn on the following: D D D D D Parking Lamps Sidemarker Lamps Taillamps License Plate Lamps Instrument Panel Lights Turn the knob clockwise again, to the master lighting symbol, to turn on all the lamps listed as well as the headlamps. Turn the knob counterclockwise to OFF, to turn off your lamps.
Automatic Headlamp System When it is dark enough outside, your automatic headlamp system will turn on your headlamps at the normal brightness along with other lamps such as the taillamps, sidemarker, parking lamps and the instrument panel lights. To idle your vehicle with the automatic headlamp system off, set the parking brake while the ignition is off. Then start the vehicle. The automatic headlamp system will stay off until you release the parking brake.
Fog Lamps Headlamp Delay Your vehicle has fog lamps. Use them for better vision in foggy or misty conditions. Your parking lamps and/or low-beam headlamps must be on for your fog lamps to work. Fog lamps are not meant to be used without headlamps in the dark. Your vehicle is equipped with a headlamp delay feature that holds the headlamps on for a short period of time after the ignition is turned off. The fog lamp switch is located to the right of the instrument panel cluster.
The length of time that the headlamps stay on after the ignition is turned off can be adjusted by pressing and holding the HEADLAMP DELAY button. The delay can be varied in five steps (0, 15, 30, 60 and 90 seconds). When the HEADLAMP DELAY button is held in, the Light Emitting Diode (LED) on the mirror will show five step changes in brightness. When the LED is at its brightest the headlamp delay will be 90 seconds, and when it is most dim the delay will be zero seconds.
Reading Lamps Your vehicle has reading lamps. Press the button located next to the lamp to turn the lamp on. You can use the DOME OVERRIDE button, located below the parking/headlamp knob, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically when the doors are opened, or remain off. To turn the lamps off, press the button to the “in” position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will remain off when the doors are open.
Mirrors Electrochromic Inside Rearview Mirror with Compass, Temperature Display and Headlamp Delay Your vehicle has electrochromic inside and outside rearview mirrors. Your vehicle also has a headlamp delay feature. See “Headlamp Delay” in the Index for more information. The mirror also includes an eight-point compass display in the upper right corner of the mirror face. When on, the compass automatically calibrates as the vehicle is driven. The display can also be used to indicate outside air temperature.
Temperature Display Compass Operation The temperature can be displayed by pressing the TEMP button. Pressing the TEMP button once briefly will toggle the temperature reading on and off. To alternate the temperature reading between Fahrenheit and Celsius, press and hold the TEMP button for about eight seconds until the display shows only F_ or C_. Press and release the TEMP button to toggle between the Fahrenheit and Celsius readings.
In order to calibrate, the letter “C” must be displayed in the mirror compass windows. If “C” is not displayed, push in the “COMP” button for approximately eight seconds or until the letter “C” is displayed. 2. Find your current location and variance zone number on the following zone map.
Electric Outside Rearview Mirrors The electric mirrors can be adjusted to point where you want from inside the vehicle. Select the mirror you want to move by turning the center of the switch, located on the driver’s door armrest, to L (left) or R (right). Electrochromic Heated Outside Rearview Mirrors The outside rearview mirrors feature auto-dimming and defrost modes. To turn on the auto-dimming feature, press and hold the TEMP button on the inside rearview mirror for about 15 seconds.
Rear Compartment CAUTION: 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 hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. Storage Compartments Your vehicle has a variety of storage compartments designed to store small items. The rear compartment can be used to store a small item, like a book.
Your console also has a cupholder that swings down for the rear seat passengers to use. Center Floor Console Your vehicle has a console compartment between the bucket seats. The console also contains the following components: To open it, insert the console key into the lock and unlock the console. Press the button in and swing the console lid upward. The console key is for use on the storage compartment only. The console has a small storage bin covered by a lid.
Rear Armrest Storage Compartment Your vehicle has a center armrest storage compartment in the rear seat. Cargo Security Shade CAUTION: Other Storage Compartments Your vehicle includes a number of storage compartments for storage of often-used items. Your vehicle has a storage pocket on each of the front doors. You can use the pocket to store a variety of small items. An improperly stored cargo cover could be thrown about the vehicle during a collision or sudden maneuver. You or others could be injured.
To use the shade: 1. Pull the shade handle toward the rear of the vehicle. 2. Latch the shade posts into the retaining sockets on the cargo area trim panels. To return the shade to the shade holder: 1. Pull up on the shade handle to release the shade posts from the retaining sockets. 2. Let the shade move forward and latch the shade posts into the front-most retaining sockets. To remove the shade from the vehicle: 1. Let the shade go all the way into the holder. 2.
4. Move the other end of the shade forward. Luggage Carrier 5. Hold it next to the driver’s side trim panel slot. Your vehicle has a luggage carrier which you can use to load things on top of your vehicle. 6. Push the shade holder toward the passenger’s side of the vehicle. 7. Place the tab in the driver’s side trim panel slot. Make sure the tab goes all the way in the slot. 8. Lightly pull on the shade holder to make sure it is secure. 9.
To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you’re driving, check now and then to make sure the luggage carrier and cargo are still securely fastened. Be sure the cargo is properly loaded. D If small heavy objects are placed on the roof, place the load in the area over the rear wheels. If you need to, cut a piece of 3/8 inch plywood to fit inside the crossrails and side rails to spread the load. If items are loaded on the roof of the vehicle, care should be taken not to block or damage the CHMSL unit.
Rear Door Ashtrays Accessory Power Outlets To use a rear ashtray, flip the lid open. To remove a rear ashtray, open the lid and pull the ashtray assembly upward. To use the cigarette lighter, push it in all the way, and let go. When it’s done heating, it will pop back by itself. NOTICE: Holding a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating can make it overload, damaging the lighter and the heating element. Just push the lighter all the way in and let go.
One auxiliary power outlet is located at the rear of the center floor console, for rear seat passengers to use. Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them out to help block glare at the front and side windows. The visors have an extender on the inside edge. When the visor is down, pull the extender out for extra glare coverage at the front or side. The visors also have mirrors with lights. The lights will come on when you lift the mirror cover.
HomeLinkR Transmitter This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes and modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Programming the Transmitter Do not use the HomeLink transmitter with any garage door opener that does not have the “stop and reverse” feature. This includes any garage door opener model manufactured before April 1, 1982. Be sure that people and objects are clear of the garage door you are programming. Your vehicle’s engine should be turned off while programming the transmitter. Follow these steps to program up to three channels: 1. If you have previously programmed a transmitter channel, proceed to Step 2.
If you have trouble programming the HomeLink transmitter, make sure that you have followed the directions exactly as described and that the battery in the hand-held transmitter is not dead. If you still cannot program it, rotate the hand-held transmitter end over end and try again. The HomeLink transmitter may not work with older garage door openers that do not meet current Federal Consumer Safety Standards.
Training a Garage Door Opener with a “Rolling Code” Feature (If Equipped) If you have not previously programmed the hand-held transmitter to the HomeLink transmitter, see “Programming the Transmitter” listed previously. If you have completed this programming already, you now need to train the garage door opener motor head unit to recognize the HomeLink transmitter. Refer to your garage door opener owner’s manual for the proper transmitter training procedure for your garage door opener brand. 1.
Erasing Channels To erase all three programmed channels, hold down the two outside buttons until the indicator light begins to flash (after 20 seconds). Release both buttons. Accessories Accessories for the HomeLink transmitter are available from the manufacturer of the unit. If you would like additional information, please call 1-800-355-3515. OnStarR System (If Equipped) OnStar is a vehicle communications service.
The Instrument Panel - Your Information System 2-70
A. Dome Override Switch L. Cupholder B. Lamp Controls M. Auxiliary Power Outlets C. Air Outlets N. Compact Disc Player D. Multifunction Lever O. Electric Tailgate Glass Release (If Equipped) E. Instrument Panel Cluster P. Fog Lamp Switch F. Gearshift Lever Q. Automatic Transfer Case Switch G. Rear Window Wiper Washer Switch (If Equipped) R. Tilt Lever H. Audio System S. Parking Brake Release I. Comfort Control System T. Hood Release J. Glove Box U. Fuse Block K.
Instrument Panel Cluster United States version shown, Canada similar 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 much fuel you have and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.
Speedometer and Odometer Trip Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero. Tamper-Resistant Odometer Your odometer is tamper-resistant.
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Safety Belt Reminder Light This part describes the 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 expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions.
Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” in the Index.
Charging System Warning Light The charging system warning light should come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, before starting the engine, as a check to show you it is working. After the engine starts, the light should go out. If it stays on or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with your charging system. It could indicate a problem with the generator drive belt, or some other charging system problem. Have it checked right away.
You can only drive for a short time with the reading in either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories. This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti-lock brake system, this light will come on when you start your engine and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal. If the light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a problem with your regular brakes.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required.
This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: D Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required.
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 of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see “Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed.
Oil Pressure Gage The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running. Canadian vehicles indicate pressure in kPa (kilopascals). Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the low pressure zone indicate the normal operating range. A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a dangerously low oil level or other problem causing low oil pressure. Check your oil as soon as possible.
Security Light Service Four-Wheel Drive Warning Light This light will come on briefly when you turn the key to START. Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic four-wheel-drive transfer case. It has a computer which controls the four-wheel-drive system. This light should come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, as a check to show you it is working. The light will stay on until the engine starts. If the light flashes, the PasslockR System has entered a tamper mode.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) Indicator Light This light will turn on whenever the DRL are on. When it begins to get dark, the DRL indicator light will turn off and your automatic headlamps will turn on. Check Gages Light This light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, it could indicate a problem with your vehicle. It could be a problem with your oil pressure, coolant temperature, or some other problem.
Listed are four situations you may experience with your fuel gage: Fuel Gage When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left in your tank. D At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gage reads F (Full). D It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the fuel gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank.
Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.
Comfort Controls Heater and Air Conditioning Control System In OFF, while driving, air will flow through the floor outlets. The mode knob will not redirect the airflow to other selected outlet positions. This is normal operation for the OFF position. Temperature Knob The middle knob on the control panel lets you select the relative temperature of the air flowing into the passenger area of your vehicle.
VENT/HEAT: Use this setting to divide airflow between the floor outlets and instrument panel outlets. HEATER: This setting directs air through the floor outlets. To operate the rear air conditioning system, the front air conditioning system must be on. With the front air conditioning system off, the rear system controls can be used to circulate air in the rear of the vehicle. DEFOG: This setting directs air to the heater outlets and toward the windshield.
This setting also cools the air the fastest and can be used to keep unwanted odors and/or dust from entering the vehicle. When using the air conditioner, turn off recirculation after the vehicle reaches a comfortable interior temperature. When the right knob on the control panel is between HEATER and DEFROST, the recirculation feature will not function. REAR CONTROLS To use the rear control, first turn the front control knob to REAR CNTL.
Heating The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. On cold days, use the HEATER or VENT/HEAT setting with the temperature knob in the red area. If you use the engine coolant heater before starting your engine in cold weather, 20_F (-8_C) or lower, your heating system will produce warmer air faster, to heat the passenger compartment in cold weather.
Ventilation Tips D Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. D When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the blower fan to HI for a few moments before driving. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. D Keep the air path under the front seats clear of objects.
The defogger will shut itself off after several minutes. If you need additional warming time, press the button again. You can turn the defogger off at any time by pressing the button. The rear window defogger button will activate the rear window defogger and the heated outside rearview mirrors. Do not attach a temporary vehicle license, tape or decals across the defogger grid on the rear window. NOTICE: Don’t use a razor blade or anything else sharp on the inside of the rear window.
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player REAR DSPL: When the main radio is turned on, press this button to turn on the rear seat audio display on the main radio. Press it again to turn the rear seat audio display off. RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this button. When the radio is playing, press this button to recall the station frequency.
Finding a Station 3. Tune in the desired station. AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display will show your selection. 4. Press and hold one of the six pushbuttons. The sound will mute. When it returns, release the button. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it.
Setting the Tone Playing a Cassette Tape BASS: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its stored position. Turn the knob clockwise to increase bass and counterclockwise to decrease bass. Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. TREB: Press lightly on this knob to release it from its stored position.
NEXT (3): Press the NEXT button or the SEEK right arrow to search for the next selection. A minimum three-second blank gap is required for the player to stop at the beginning of the selection. The tape direction arrow will blink during the SEEK operation. The sound will mute while searching for the next selection. REV (4): Press this button to rapidly reverse the tape to the beginning of the cassette or until you press REV again. The radio will play the last selected station while reversing the tape.
CD Adapter Kits Rear Seat Audio (RSA) It is possible to use a portable CD player adapter kit with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass feature on your tape player. To activate the bypass feature, use the following steps: 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACCESSORY. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press and hold the CD TAPE button for five seconds. The tape symbol on the display will flash for two seconds, indicating the feature is active. 4. Insert the adapter into the cassette slot.
The rear speakers will be muted when the RSA power is turned on. You may operate the RSA functions even when the main radio is off. The following function is controlled by the knob on the main radio: The following functions are controlled by the RSA system buttons: PWR: Press this button to turn RSA on or off. VOL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to decrease volume. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it.
P.SET PROG: The front passengers must be listening to something different for each of these functions to work: D Press this button to seek through the preset radio stations set on the pushbuttons on the main radio. D When a cassette tape is playing, press this button to go to the other side of the tape. D When a CD is playing in the CD changer, press this button to select a disc. CD TAPE: Press this button to switch between the tape, remote CD and console-mounted CD changer if all are loaded.
If the disc comes back out and ERR appears on the display, it could be that: D The disc is upside down. D It is dirty, scratched or wet. D There’s too much moisture in the air. (Wait about an hour and try again.) D You are driving on a very rough road. Please contact your dealership if any error recurs or cannot be corrected. PREV (1): Press this button to go back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. Press PREV again to go to the previous track on the disc.
Console-Mounted CD Changer With the compact disc changer, you can play up to six discs continuously. Normal size discs may be played using the slots supplied in the magazine. You must first load the magazine with discs before you can play a compact disc. Load the CDs from bottom to top, placing the discs in the magazine label side up. If you load a disc label side down, the disc will not play and an error will occur. Repeat this procedure for loading up to six discs in the magazine.
Close the door by sliding it all the way forward. When the CD magazine is loaded, the changer will begin checking for discs in the magazine. This will continue for up to one and a half minutes, depending on the number of discs loaded. To eject the magazine from the player, slide the CD changer door all the way open, then press EJECT. Remember to keep the door closed whenever possible to keep dirt and dust from getting inside the changer.
D You are driving on a very rough road. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen. D A disc is upside down. D It is dirty, scratched or wet. D It is very humid. When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery power has been interrupted.
4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the secret code number which you have written down. 5. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 3. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. 4. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code. 7. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code. 5.
5. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. 6. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code. 7. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show ---, indicating that the radio is no longer secured. If the code entered is incorrect, SEC will appear on the display. The radio will remain secured until the correct code is entered.
NOTICE: Before you add any sound equipment to your vehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you can add what you want. If you can, it’s very important to do it properly. Added sound equipment may interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s engine, Delco Electronics radio or other systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation of sound equipment that has been added improperly.
When using a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape. To prevent the cleaning cassette from being ejected, use the following steps. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset. 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACCESSORY.
Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.
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. Be ready for their mistakes. Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following distance. It’s the best defensive driving maneuver, in both city and rural driving.
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: D D D D Judgment Muscular Coordination Vision Attentiveness. Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving.
Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent. The BAC will be over 0.
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if 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 enough to avoid the collision. There’s something else about drinking and driving that many people don’t know.
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions. Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an 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. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down.
Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let anti-lock work for you.
Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed.
Off-Road Recovery You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.
Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds.
D Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder and D D D start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough 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 if your right outside mirror is convex, the vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.) Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on two-lane roads.
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow down when you have any doubt.
CAUTION: D Cargo on the load floor piled higher than D D the seatbacks can be thrown forward during a sudden stop. You or your passengers could be injured. Keep cargo below the top of the seatbacks. Unsecured cargo on the load floor can be tossed about when driving over rough terrain. You or your passengers can be struck by flying objects. Secure the cargo properly. Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over.
Traveling to Remote Areas It makes sense to plan your trip, especially when going to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your route. You are much less likely to get bad surprises. Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn of any blocked or closed roads. It’s also a good idea to travel with at least one other vehicle. If something happens to one of them, the other can help quickly. Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read the winch instructions.
Scanning the Terrain Off-road driving can take you over many different kinds of terrain. You need to be familiar with the terrain and its many different features. Here are some things to consider. Surface Conditions. Off-roading can take you over hard-packed dirt, gravel, rocks, grass, sand, mud, snow or ice. Each of these surfaces affects the steering, acceleration and braking of your vehicle in different ways.
Driving on Off-Road Hills Off-road driving often takes you up, down or across a hill. Driving safely on hills requires good judgment and an understanding of what your vehicle can and can’t do. There are some hills that simply can’t be driven, no matter how well built the vehicle. CAUTION: Many hills are simply too steep for any vehicle. If you drive up them, you will stall. If you drive down them, you can’t control your speed. If you drive across them, you will roll over.
D What’s beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and walk the hill if you don’t know. It’s the smart way to find out. D Is the hill simply too rough? Steep hills often have ruts, gullies, troughs and exposed rocks because they are more susceptible to the effects of erosion. Driving Uphill Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. D Use a low gear and get a firm grip on the steering wheel.
D If your engine has stopped running, you’ll need CAUTION: Driving to the top (crest) of a hill at full speed can cause an accident. There could be a drop-off, embankment, cliff, or even another vehicle. You could be seriously injured or killed. As you near the top of a hill, slow down and stay alert. Q: What should I do if my vehicle stalls, or is about to stall, and I can’t make it up the hill? A: If this happens, there are some things you should do, and there are some things you must not do.
Instead, apply the regular brake to stop the vehicle. Then apply the parking brake. Shift to REVERSE (R), release the parking brake, and slowly back straight down. D Never attempt to turn around if you are about to stall when going up a hill. If the hill is steep enough to stall your vehicle, it’s steep enough to cause you to roll over if you turn around. If you can’t make it up the hill, you must back straight down the hill.
D Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts? Q: Are there some things I should not do when driving down a hill? D What’s at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden A: Yes! These are important because if you ignore them you could lose control and have a serious accident. If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and they won’t have to do all the work.
Driving Across an Incline Sooner or later, an off-road trail will probably go across the incline of a hill. If this happens, you have to decide whether to try to drive across the incline. Here are some things to consider: D A hill that can be driven straight up or down may be too steep to drive across. When you go straight up or down a hill, the length of the wheel base (the distance from the front wheels to the rear wheels) reduces the likelihood the vehicle will tumble end over end.
Q: What if I’m driving across an incline that’s not too steep, but I hit some loose gravel and start to slide downhill. What should I do? A: If you feel your vehicle starting to slide sideways, turn downhill. This should help straighten out the vehicle and prevent the side slipping. However, a much better way to prevent this is to get out and “walk the course” so you know what the surface is like before you drive it.
Driving in Mud, Sand, Snow or Ice When you drive in mud, snow or sand, your wheels won’t get good traction. You can’t accelerate as quickly, turning is more difficult, and you’ll need longer braking distances. It’s best to use a low gear when you’re in mud -- the deeper the mud, the lower the gear. In really deep mud, the idea is to keep your vehicle moving so you don’t get stuck. When you drive on sand, you’ll sense a change in wheel traction. But it will depend upon how loosely packed the sand is.
If the water isn’t too deep, then drive through it slowly. At fast speeds, water splashes on your ignition system and your vehicle can stall. Stalling can also occur if you get your tailpipe under water. And, as long as your tailpipe is under water, you’ll never be able to start your engine. When you go through water, remember that when your brakes get wet, it may take you longer to stop. CAUTION: Driving through rushing water can be dangerous.
Driving at Night Here are some tips on night driving. D Drive defensively. D Don’t drink and drive. D Since you can’t see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles. D Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. D In remote areas, watch for animals. D If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe place and rest. No one can see as well at night as in the daytime.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps), slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into the approaching headlamps. Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean -- inside and out. Glare at night is made much worse by dirt on the glass.
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or 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.
CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Hydroplaning 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 road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough.
Driving Through Flowing Water City Driving CAUTION: Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. If you try to drive through flowing water, as you might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can be carried away. As little as six inches of flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this happens, you and the other vehicle occupants could drown. Don’t ignore police warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious about trying to drive through flowing water.
Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: D Know the best way to get to where you are Freeway Driving going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. D Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You’ll save time and energy. (See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”) D Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it.
The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane. When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit.
Here are some things you can check before a trip: D Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? D Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape? D Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? D Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? D Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble-free trip.
Hill and Mountain Roads If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. (See “Off-Road Driving” in the Index for information about driving off-road.) D Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. D Know how to go down hills.
CAUTION: Winter Driving Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill. D Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to D D D a lower gear.
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 reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.
Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowing or loose snow -- drive with caution. If You’re Caught in a Blizzard Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more. Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have an anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement.
D Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. D Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or 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. CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you.
Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster 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 possibly for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for a while. Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat.
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles CAUTION: Shifting the transfer case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P), for an automatic transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is firmly set before you shift the transfer case into NEUTRAL. Use the following procedure to correctly tow your vehicle on all four wheels: 1. Firmly set the parking brake. 2. Place the transmission in PARK (P). 3.
Loading Your Vehicle The label shows the size of your original tires and the inflation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle. Using heavier suspension components to get added durability might not change your weight ratings. Ask your dealer to help you load your vehicle the right way.
Towing a Trailer CAUTION: If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well -- or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points: D There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. D Consider using a sway control if your trailer will weigh less than the capacity stamped on your step bumper.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming the driver and one passenger are in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at the address listed in your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information Booklet.
D If you’ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than the capacity stamped on your step bumper, be sure to use a properly mounted, weight-distributing hitch and sway control of the proper size. This equipment is very important for proper vehicle loading and good handling when you’re driving. D Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch.
Driving with a Trailer CAUTION: If you have a rear-most window open and you pull a trailer with your vehicle, carbon monoxide (CO) could come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness or death. (See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.) To maximize your safety when towing a trailer: D Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, and make necessary repairs before starting on your trip. D Keep the rear-most windows closed.
Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.
Driving On Grades Parking on Hills Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep 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. B You should tow in AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions).
CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. Always put the shift lever fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set.
Trailer Wiring Harness Additional Heavy-Duty Wiring Light-Duty Wiring Harness 4-52
An eight-wire harness is stored under the rear bumper of your vehicle. The five-wire light-duty harness is located at the left rear inner lower quarter panel. The additional heavy-duty wiring is located forward of the rear bumper and is attached to the center of the rear crossmember or the forward vertical surface of the platform hitch. This harness has a 30 amp battery feed wire and no connector, and should be wired by a qualified electrical technician.
Section 5 Problems On The Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.
Hazard Warning Flashers Press the button located on the top of the steering column all the way down to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. To turn off the flashers, push the button until the first click and release. 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.
Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please use the following steps to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: D They contain acid that can burn you. D They contain gas that can explode or ignite. D They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so 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’t be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each battery.
5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative (-) will go to a heavy unpainted metal engine part.
7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. 8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) cable. Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (-) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal engine part of the vehicle with the dead battery.
12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal. 9. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less. 10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery 11.
Towing Your Vehicle CAUTION: To help avoid serious personal injury to you or others: D Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. D Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. D Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured. D Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by the tow truck. D Always secure the vehicle on each side with separate safety chains when towing it. D Use only the correct hooks.
Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” in the Index. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: D D D D If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer. See “Driving on Grades” in the Index.
Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Radiator Pressure Cap If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the COLD mark. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. C.
CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine 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 leak fixed before you drive the vehicle. NOTICE: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank NOTICE: If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above the COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOLR engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information.) In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.
CAUTION: 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 in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOLR coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mixture.) 5-16 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD mark. 5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.
6. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan. 7. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOLR coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. 8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
Engine Fan Noise If a Tire Goes Flat Your vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan. When the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is not fully engaged. This improves fuel economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases as the clutch more fully engages. So you may hear an increase in fan noise.
Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. CAUTION: Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P). 3.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is located in the rear cargo area. The spare tire is located under the rear of the vehicle. To open the jack cover, turn the wing nut counterclockwise and take the cover off. To take the jack out, turn the wing-head bolt counterclockwise and take it and the retainer off. Take the jack and storage box out and take the tools out of the box. Your vehicle may have a pair of emergency gloves secured to the jack.
Follow these instructions to lower the spare tire: 1. One side of the ratchet has an UP marking. The other side has a DOWN marking. Assemble the ratchet to the hook near the end of the jack handle (as illustrated) with the DOWN marking facing you. Insert the other end through the hole in the rear bumper and into the hoist shaft. 2. Turn the ratchet counterclockwise to lower the spare tire to the ground. Continue to turn the ratchet until the spare tire can be pulled out from under the vehicle. A. B. C. D.
The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A), the jack handle extension (B), the jack handle (C), the wheel wrench (D) and the ratchet (E). The jack handle extension is used if the flat tire is on the rear of the vehicle. 5-22 Attach the jack handle (and jack handle extension, if needed) to the jack.
UP Marking DOWN Marking One side of the ratchet has an UP marking. The other side has a DOWN marking. With the UP marking on the ratchet facing you, rotate the ratchet clockwise. That will lift the jack head a little.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire To access the lug nuts, place the wheel wrench in the slot on the wheel and gently pry off the center piece to remove it. 1. Use the ratchet and wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise, with DOWN facing you, to loosen the wheel nuts. Don’t remove the wheel nuts yet. 2. If the flat tire is on the rear of the vehicle, put the jack handle extension on the jack handle.
CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. 3. Position the jack under the vehicle. If the flat tire is on the front of the vehicle, position the jack on the frame behind the flat tire. If the flat tire is on the rear of the vehicle, position the jack on the axle near the flat tire between the spring and the shock absorber.
5. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. Front Position Rear Position 4. With UP on the ratchet facing you, raise the vehicle by turning the ratchet and wheel wrench clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit. 5-26 6. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.
CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the 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 the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off. CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts.
Front Position Rear Position 8. Lower the vehicle by turning the ratchet and wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. 9. Tighten each wheel nut by turning the wheel wrench clockwise. 10. Tighten the nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise.
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 140 lb-ft (190 N·m) NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage.
Jacking Tool Storage Jack Storage A. Wheel Wrench A. Retainer B. Jack Handle B. Nut C. Ratchet C. Jack D. Jacking Tool Storage Box D. Jack Storage Box E. Jack Handle Extension E.
Follow these instructions to restore a spare or flat tire: 1. Lay the tire on the ground at the rear of the vehicle. Position the tire so that the valve stem is pointed down and to the rear of the vehicle. 2. Tilt the retainer downward and through the wheel opening. Make sure that the retainer is fully seated across the underside of the wheel. 3. Attach the ratchet, with the UP mark facing you, near the hook at the end of the jack handle.
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will need to spin the wheels, but you don’t want 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. CAUTION: D Raise the tire fully against the underside of the vehicle. Continue turning the ratchet until the tire is secure and the cable is tight. The spare tire hoist cannot be overtightened. D Make sure the tire is stored securely.
NOTICE: Using the Recovery Hooks Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transmission back and forth, you can destroy your transmission. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see “Tire Chains” in the Index. Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. Shift the transfer case into 4HI.
CAUTION: The recovery hooks, when used, are under a lot of force. Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The hooks could break off and you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back. NOTICE: Never use the recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not be covered by warranty.
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
Service Doing Your Own Service Work Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.
CAUTION: 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. D Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. D Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English” and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.
If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood emission control label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected.
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In addition, gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area to contribute to clean air.
Filling Your Tank 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. While refueling, let the cap hang by the tether below the fuel filler neck. To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The fuel cap is located behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of your vehicle.
CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank 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. Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container CAUTION: Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others: D Dispense gasoline only into approved containers. D Do not fill a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground.
Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle. This can be found on the driver’s side near the parking brake release. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release, located just to the passenger’s side of the center of the grill. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all filler caps are on properly. Pull down the hood and close it firmly.
“VORTEC” 5700 V8 Engine When you lift up the hood you’ll see: A. B. C. D. E. Battery Coolant Recovery Tank Radiator Pressure Cap Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Air Filter Restriction Indicator 6-10 F. Engine Oil Dipstick G. Automatic Transmission Dipstick H. Engine Cooling Fan I. Engine Oil Fill J. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir K. Brake Fluid Reservoir L. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir M.
Checking Engine Oil Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level. It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.
When to Add Engine Oil What Kind of Engine Oil to Use If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index. Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the starburst symbol. NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil.
As shown in the chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W-30 if it’s going to be 0 F (-18 C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50. _ _ NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.
Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol are all you will need for good performance and engine protection. When to Change Engine Oil If any one of these is true for you, use the short trip/city maintenance schedule: D Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. D Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic).
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter The engine air cleaner assembly has an indicator that lets you know when the engine air cleaner/filter is dirty and needs to be serviced. The indicator is located on the air intake tube between the engine air cleaner and the engine. See “Owner Checks and Services” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet to determine when to check the indicator. Your engine air cleaner/filter is located between the battery and coolant recovery tank.
To remove the engine air cleaner/filter: 1. Unhook the retainer clips and remove the cover. 4. Install the new filter by pushing it all the way to the stop on the duct. 2. Lift the filter and the connected duct out of the air cleaner housing. Hold the duct and remove the filter by both pulling and twisting the filter away from the duct. Care should be taken to dislodge as little dirt as possible. 3. Clean the filter sealing surface of the duct and the filter housing. 6-16 5.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the engine air cleaner/filter. See “Owner Checks and Services” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet. CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the 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 with the air cleaner/filter off.
How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the 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. NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire.
Checking Transmission Fluid Cold A cold check is made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off and is used only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for five minutes if outside temperatures are 50_F (10_C) or more. If it’s colder than 50_F (10_C), you may have to idle the engine longer. Should the fluid level be low during a cold check, you must perform a hot check before adding fluid. This will give you a more accurate reading of the fluid level.
Add fluid only after checking the transmission fluid while it is hot. (A cold check is used only as a reference.) If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfill. NOTICE: 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level.
Rear Axle What to Use When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet.
How to Check Lubricant Front Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet. How to Check Lubricant If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. Use care not to overtighten plug.
When the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise the level to 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the filler plug hole. When the differential is at operating temperature (warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet.
What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOLR coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.
Checking Coolant CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap -- even a little -- when the engine and radiator are hot. Add coolant mixture at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.
Radiator Pressure Cap Power Steering Fluid When to Check Power Steering Fluid NOTICE: Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler neck. 6-26 It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid Windshield Washer Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. What to Use The level should be at the FULL COLD mark. If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to the mark.
NOTICE: D When using concentrated washer fluid, D D D follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. 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 if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.
So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off” your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. Checking Brake Fluid CAUTION: If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough.
What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid. Refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. NOTICE: D Using the wrong fluid can badly damage Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced. NOTICE: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair. Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes.
Replacing Brake System Parts Battery The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system -- for example, when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new ones put in -- be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly.
Bulb Replacement The following procedure tells you how to replace your headlamp bulbs. For the type of bulb to use, see “Replacement Bulbs”in the Index. For any bulbs not listed in this section, contact your service department. 2. Remove the two turn signal bulb sockets and the sidemarker bulb socket from the parking/turn signal assembly by turning counterclockwise. 3. Set the parking/turn signal assembly to the side.
12. Install the parking/turn signal assembly. Install and tighten the two screws. Parking/Turn Signal Lamps 6. Turn the bulb counterclockwise and remove it. 7. Unplug the electrical connector. 8. Put the new bulb into the assembly and turn it clockwise until it is tight. 9. Plug in the electrical connector. 10. Put the headlamp assembly back into the vehicle. Install and tighten the two bolts. 11.
Fog Lamps The fog lamp bulb assembly is located under the front bumper. A. Turn Signal Bulbs B. Sidemarker Bulb 3. To remove a bulb, turn the socket counterclockwise to remove it from the assembly. 4. Put the new bulb into the assembly and turn the socket clockwise until it is tight. 1. Remove the fog lamp bulb socket by turning it counterclockwise. 5. Install the parking/turn signal lamp assembly by sliding it from the side of the vehicle toward the center until the tabs fully engage the grille. 6.
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) The individual bulbs in the CHMSL are not replaceable. See your dealer for assistance. Rear Lamps 1. Open the tailgate. 2. Remove the two black plastic plugs from the rear lamp assembly access holes. 2. Remove the connector from the bulb socket by lifting the tabs on the sides of the connector. 3. Insert the new bulb socket into the connector until the tabs lock into the connector. 4.
4. Remove the screws from the bulb retainer and take the bulb retainer off of the lamp assembly. Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement 5. Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket. 6. Put in a new bulb and push it straight in until it is tight. 7. Replace the bulb retainer. 8. Replace the rear lamp assembly and tighten the screws. You may want to use a magnetic screwdriver when installing the screws. 9. Close the tailgate.
To replace the windshield wiper blade assembly: 1. Lift the wiper arm and turn the blade until it is facing away from the windshield. 2. Push the release lever and slide the wiper assembly toward the driver’s side of the vehicle. 3. Install a new blade by reversing Steps 1 and 2. Tires Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Cadillac Warranty booklet for details.
Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Certification/Tire label, which is on the rear edge of the driver’s door, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km). You can operate some vehicles at reduced inflation pressures only when you’ll be carrying reduced loads.
When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Also, check the tire pressure of the spare tire. How to Check The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet for scheduled rotation intervals. Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them.
When It’s Time for New Tires CAUTION: One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make 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 the wheel attaches to the vehicle.
D The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage. Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Certification/Tire label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires.
Temperature -- A, B, C Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
If you need to replace 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 vehicle. CAUTION: Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose air and make you lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured.
Tire Chains NOTICE: Don’t use tire chains. They can damage your vehicle because there’s not enough clearance. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it’s contacting your vehicle, and don’t spin your wheels.
Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these will damage your vehicle: D D D D Alcohol Laundry Soap Bleach Reducing Agents Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle Use a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinyl, leather, plastic and painted surfaces with a clean, damp cloth. Cleaning of Fabric/Carpet Your dealer has two cleaners, Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner and Capture Non-Solvent Dry Spot and Soil Remover for cleaning fabric and carpet.
Cleaning Vinyl Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use warm water and a clean cloth. 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. D Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do it more than once.
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. CAUTION: Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.
Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required. (See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet.) Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of color, gloss retention and durability.
NOTICE: Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
Don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash that has silicon carbide tire cleaning brushes. These brushes can also damage the surface of these wheels. Cleaning Tires To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. 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 products may damage the paint finish and tires.
Underbody Maintenance Chemical Paint Spotting Chemicals used for 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 as fuel 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.
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials PART NUMBER 994954 1050172 1050173 1050174 1050214 1050427 SIZE 23 in. x 25 in. 16 oz. (0.473 L) 16 oz. (0.473 L) 16 oz. (0.473 L) 32 oz. (0.946 L) 23 oz. (0.680 L) 1052918** 8 oz. (0.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Service Parts Identification Label You’ll find this label on the inside of the glove box. It’s very helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label is: This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle.
Electrical System Headlamp Wiring Add-On Electrical Equipment The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker in the lamp switch. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to flicker on and off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have your headlamp wiring checked right away. NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers and fusible thermal links in the wiring itself. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Instrument Panel Fuse Block The fuse block access door is on the driver’s side edge of the instrument panel. Pull off the cover to access the fuse block. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse.
Fuse/Circuit Breaker Usage 1 Stop/TCC Switch, Buzzer, CHMSL, Hazard Lamps, Stoplamps 2 Transfer Case 3 Courtesy Lamps, Cargo Lamp, Glove Box Lamp, Dome/Reading Lamps, Vanity Mirrors, Power Mirrors 6-58 Fuse/Circuit Breaker Usage 4 Instrument Cluster, DRL Relay, Lamp Switch, Keyless Entry, Low Coolant Module, Illuminated Entry Module 5 Rear Comfort Controls 6 Cruise Control 7 Auxiliary Power Outlet 8 Crank 9 License Lamp, Parking Lamps, Taillamps, Tailgate Lamps, Front Sidemarkers, Fog
Fuse/Circuit Breaker Usage Fuse/Circuit Breaker Usage 14 4WD Indicator, Cluster, Front and Rear Comfort Controls, Instrument Switches, Radio Illumination, Chime Module 20 PRNDL, Automatic Transmission, Speedometer, Check Gages, Warning Lights 21 Security/Steering 15 DRL Relay, Fog Lamp Relay 22 Auxiliary Power, Headlamp Delay 16 Front and Rear Turn Signals, Back-Up Lamps, Anti-lock Shift Brake Control Solenoid 23 Rear Wiper, Rear Washer Pump 24 Front Axle, 4WD Indicator Lamp, TP2 Relay A
Underhood Fuse/Relay Center The underhood fuse/relay center is located in the rear of the engine compartment near the brake fluid reservoir. Move the retainer clips for the cover to access the fuse block. You can remove fuses with a fuse extractor. The fuse extractor is mounted to the interior fuse block. To remove fuses if you don’t have a fuse extractor, hold the end of the fuse between your thumb and index finger and pull straight out.
Name Circuits Protected Name Circuits Protected GLOW PLUG Not Used AUX A SEO Wiring HORN Horn, Underhood Lamp LIGHTING AUX FAN Auxiliary Fan Headlamp and Panel Dimmer Switch, Fog and Courtesy Fuses ECM-1 Injectors, PCM/VCM BATT Battery, Fuse Block Busbar HTD ST-FR Heated Front Seats IGN A Ignition Switch A/C Air Conditioning IGN B Ignition Switch HTD MIR Heated Outside Mirrors ABS Anti-Lock Brake Module ENG-1 Ignition Switch, EGR, Canister Purge, EVRV Idle Coast Solenoid, Heat
Replacement Bulbs LAMP OR BULB TRADE NO. POWER RATING AT 12.8V, WATTS QTY Low Beam 9006 HB4 55 2 High Beam 9005 HB3 65 2 TRADE NO.
Capacities and Specifications Please refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet for more information. Engine Identification Engine Type RPO Code VIN Code Fuel System *Sequential Fuel Injection “VORTEC” 5700 V8 L31 R SFI* Wheels and Tires MODEL K 1500 Tire Pressure DESCRIPTION 6 bolts (14 mm) See the Certification/Tire label on the rear edge of the driver’s door.
Fuel Tank Capacity (Approximate) Quantity 30.0 Gallons (113.0 L) Wiper Blades (Front) Replacement part numbers listed in this section are based on the latest information available at the time of printing, and are subject to change. If a part listed in this manual is not the same as the part used in your vehicle when it was built, or if you have any questions, please contact your Cadillac dealer.
Section 7 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Cadillac if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects.
Customer Satisfaction Procedure STEP ONE -- Discuss your concern with a member of dealership management. Normally, concerns can be quickly resolved at that level. If the matter has already been reviewed with the sales, service or parts manager, contact the owner of the dealership or the general manager.
When contacting Cadillac, please remember that your concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s facility. That is why we suggest you follow Step One first if you have a concern. STEP THREE -- Both General Motors and your dealer are committed to making sure you are completely satisfied with your new vehicle. However, if you continue to remain unsatisfied after following the procedure outlined in Steps One and Two, file with the GM/BBB Auto Line Program to enforce any additional rights you may have.
Customer Assistance Offices Cadillac encourages customers to call the toll-free number for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes to write to Cadillac, the letter should be addressed to Cadillac’s Customer Assistance Center. United States Cadillac Customer Assistance Center Cadillac Motor Car Division P.O.
GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities Roadside Service This program, available to qualified applicants, can reimburse you up to $1,000 toward aftermarket driver or passenger adaptive equipment you may require for your vehicle (hand controls, wheelchair/scooter lifts, etc.). This program can also provide you with free resource information, such as area driver assessment centers and mobility equipment installers.
Each technician travels with a specially equipped service vehicle complete with the necessary Cadillac parts and tools required to handle most roadside repairs. Cadillac Roadside Servicer can be reached by dialing 1-800-882-1112, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. This service is provided at no charge for any warranty-covered situation and for a nominal charge if the Cadillac is no longer under warranty. Roadside Service is available only in the United States and Canada.
D Trip Interruption -- If your trip is interrupted due to a warranty failure, incidental expenses may be reimbursed during the 48 months/50,000 miles (80 000 km) warranty period. Items covered are hotel, meals and rental car. Roadside Service Availability Wherever you drive in the United States or Canada, an advisor is available to assist you over the phone. A dealer technician, if available, can travel to your location within a 30 mile (50 km) radius of a participating Cadillac dealership.
Courtesy Transportation Cadillac has always exemplified quality and value in its offering of motor vehicles. To enhance your ownership experience, we and our participating dealers are proud to offer Courtesy Transportation, a customer support program for new vehicles. The Courtesy Transportation program is offered to retail purchase/lease customers in conjunction with the Bumper to Bumper coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Courtesy Rental Vehicle Additional Program Information When your vehicle is unavailable due to warranty repairs, your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of $35.00 per day supported by receipts. This requires that you sign and complete a rental agreement and meet state, local and rental vehicle provider requirements.
General Motors reserves the right to unilaterally modify, change or discontinue Courtesy Transportation at any time and to resolve all questions of claim eligibility pursuant to the terms and conditions described herein at its sole discretion. Warranty Information Your vehicle comes with a separate warranty booklet that contains detailed warranty information.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO 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 330 Sparks Street Tower C Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
2000 CADILLAC SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order, or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.
ORDER TOLL FREE Orders will be mailed within 10 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for postal service. If further information is needed, write to the address shown below or call 1-800-551-4123. Material cannot be returned for credit without packing slip with return information within 30 days of delivery. On returns, a re-stocking fee may be applied against the original order.
