2001 Cadillac Eldorado 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 Systems Restraint Systems for Children Features and Controls Section 2 ii Windows Keys and Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry System Trunk Release Automatic Transaxle Parking Brake Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Windshield Wipers Cruise Control Exterior and Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Convenience Net Accessory Power Outlets OnStar® System (If Equipped) Sunroof (Option) HomeLink
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 (If Equipped) Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature Steering Wheel Controls Your Driving and the Road Section 4 Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Driving Tips for Various Road Conditions Loading Your Vehicle Towing a Trailer Problems on the Road Section 5 Hazard Warning Flashers Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Eng
Table of Contents (cont'd) Service and Appearance Care Section 6 Fuel Checking Fluids and Lubricants GM Oil Life System™ Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Brakes 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 Scheduled Maintenance Owner Checks and Services Periodic Maintenance Inspections Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Maintenance Records
Table of Contents (cont'd) Customer Assistance Information Section 7 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 8 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 ELDORADO are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Cadillac Motor Car Division whenever it appears in this manual.
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. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.
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. Also see “Warning Lights and Gages” in the Index.
Service Station Guide Cooling System For a More Detailed Look at What's Under the Hood See Section 5 Tire Pressure See Section 6 Battery See Section 6 See Section 6 Spare Tire Pressure See Section 5 Alternate Fuel Door Release Hood Release See Section 6 See Section 6 Windshield Washer Fluid See Section 6 Engine Oil Dipstick See Section 6 Oil Viscosity Engine Oil See Section 6 Remote Fuel Door Release See Section 6 Fuel Use unleaded only. See Section 6 for octane ratings.
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the power seats -- how to adjust them, and also about the reclining front seatbacks, lumbar adjustments, head restraints, heated seats and seatback latches. Power Seats The power seat controls are located on the outboard side of the front seat cushion. D Move the front of the control in the direction of the arrows to adjust the front portion of the cushion up or down.
Power Lumbar Control (Option) If you have this option, the driver’s and passenger’s seatback lumbar support can be adjusted four ways by moving the single switch located on the outboard side of the seat. Massaging Lumbar (If Equipped) Push the power lumbar control up for half a second to activate the massage feature. The massage cycle will run for 10 minutes. The cycle can be interrupted by pushing the lumbar control down and holding for not more than half a second.
Heated Front Seat (Option) The control is located in the center console. Move the switch to LO or HI to turn on the heating elements in the seat. The LO setting warms the seatback and cushion until the seat approximates body temperature. The HI setting heats the seat to a slightly higher temperature. A telltale light in the control reminds you that the heating system is in use. The heated seats can only be used when the ignition is turned on.
CAUTION: But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. 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. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones.
Head Restraints Seatback Latches CAUTION: If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked. Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. 1-6 The front seatback folds forward to let people get into the rear seat.
The seatback may not fold without some help from you if your vehicle is parked going down a fairly steep hill. In this case, push the seatback toward the rear as you lift the latch. Then the seatback will fold forward. The latch must be down for the seat to work properly. Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts.
In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away.
Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... 1-10 or the instrument panel ...
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? 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. 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.
Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.
3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.
Shoulder Belt Tightness Adjustment Your car has a shoulder belt tightness adjustment feature. If the shoulder belt seems too tight, adjust it before you begin to drive. 4. Let the belt go back all the way. You should hear a slight clicking sound. If you don’t, the adjustment feature won’t set, and you’ll have to start again. 1. Sit well back in the seat. 2. Start pulling the shoulder belt out. 5. Now you can add a small amount of slack. Lean forward slightly, then sit back.
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. Don’t allow more than 1 inch (25 mm) of slack. 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 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. CAUTION: (Continued) children and infants.
How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. 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. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher.
How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
D Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they D D inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts. Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system.
Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted.
If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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. 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.
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! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
CAUTION: (Continued) For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint. CAUTION: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it.
Q: What are the different types of add-on child restraints? A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used. CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed.
CAUTION: Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant’s body, the back and shoulders. Infants always should be secured in appropriate infant restraints.
Restraint Systems for Children An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle. 1-34 A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a five-point harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.
Q: A: How do child restraints work? A child restraint system is any device designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A built-in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add-on child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased by the vehicle’s owner. For many years, add-on child restraints have used the adult belt system in the vehicle. To help reduce the chance of injury, the child also has to be secured within the restraint.
Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. General Motors, therefore, recommends that child restraints be secured in the rear seat including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat.
In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Your vehicle has top strap anchors already installed for the rear seating positions. You’ll find them behind the rear seat on the filler panel. In order to get to a bracket, you’ll have to open the trim cover.
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.
3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-40 4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 5. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
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. 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-44 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. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Older Children Q: A: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash.
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.
Windows CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.
Express-Down Window Power Windows The controls are located near each window. Press the control forward to raise the window and press rearward to lower the window. This feature is present on the driver’s power window. Pressing the control rearward into the second position then releasing it will lower the window completely. If you want to stop the window as it is lowering, press the control forward. The first position on the power window control operates the driver’s power window in the non-express mode.
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. If they turned the ignition to RUN and moved the shift lever out of PARK (P), that would release the parking brake. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer removes the plug from the door key. The plug has a code on it that tells the dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. The ignition key has a bar code tag attached to it rather than a knock out plug. Your dealer or qualified locksmith can make extra ignition keys by reading the bar code tag. There are 15 alternative ignition PASS-KeyR II blanks to help discourage theft. Keep the bar code tag and the door key plugs in a safe place.
Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. D Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle won’t open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. D Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out.
Central Door Unlocking System Automatic Door Locks Your vehicle will have this feature if it is equipped with the theft-deterrent system. When unlocking either door, you can also unlock the other door by holding the key in the turned position for a few seconds or by quickly turning the door key twice in the lock cylinder. Your vehicle is programmed to lock both doors when the ignition is on and the shift lever is moved out of PARK (P).
Anti-Lockout Feature Remote Keyless Entry System Leaving your key in any ignition position with either door open will disable the use of the power door lock switches as well as the lock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. If you close the doors, you can lock them using the remote keyless entry transmitter. It is always recommended that you remove your ignition key when locking your vehicle.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. The average range of this system is about 10 feet (3 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry transmitter. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: D Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle.
Press this symbol to open the trunk. (The VALET lockout button must be off.) Press this button to open the fuel door. (The VALET lockout button must be off.) The remote keyless entry transmitter can also be used to recall the memory seats for up to two drivers. For more information, see “Memory Seat and Mirrors” in the Index. Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle.
1. Use the round end of the door key or a coin to pry open the transmitter. 2. Once the transmitter is separated, use a pencil (or similar object) to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Remove and replace the battery. Insert the new battery as the instructions under the cover indicate. Do not use a metal object. 4. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure no moisture can enter. 5. Check the operation of the transmitter.
Trunk CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid. D Make sure all other windows are shut.
Trunk Lid Automatic Pull-Down Feature With the automatic pull-down feature, you never have to slam the trunk lid in order to close the trunk. Instead, gently lower the trunk lid until it is nearly shut -- the automatic pull-down unit will take over and lock the trunk firmly. If for some reason the trunk lid (A) will not close, it may be because the trunk pull-down unit was accidentally bumped. Even though the trunk lid remains open, the motor from the pull-down unit has already cycled down.
Trunk Release Handle (If Equipped) Trap-Resistant Trunk Kit To help prevent a child from becoming trapped in your trunk, you can order a trap-resistant trunk kit from your dealer. This kit includes: D a modified trunk latch, D a lighted release handle, and D seatback tethers (for vehicles with folding rear seatbacks). See your dealer for additional information.
Parking at Night Theft-Deterrent System Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. If the ignition is off and either door is open, the SECURITY light will flash, reminding you to activate the system. Parking Lots Even if you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s still best to lock it up and take your keys.
Remember, the theft-deterrent system won’t activate if you lock a door with a key or use the manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch or the remote keyless entry transmitter. Testing the Alarm To avoid activating the alarm by accident, do the following: 2. From outside of the vehicle, with the door open, lock the vehicle using the power door lock or the remote keyless entry transmitter and close the door. Wait 30 seconds until the SECURITY light goes off.
PASS-KeyR II Valet Lockout Button Pressing the VALET lockout button, located inside the glove box, to ON will disable the use of the power trunk, fuel door and garage door openers. Pressing this button again will make these features reusable. Locking the glove box with the door key will also help to secure your vehicle. The remote keyless entry transmitter can’t be used to open the trunk or fuel door if the VALET lockout button is pressed in.
If the engine does not start and the STARTING DISABLED REMOVE KEY message is displayed in the Driver Information Center, your key should be checked for damage. Starting may be attempted with an undamaged key immediately. See your dealer or a locksmith for key service. If the STARTING DISABLE REMOVE KEY and WAIT 3 MINUTES messages are displayed, the key should be cleaned. After three minutes, try again. A START CAR message will appear at this time.
Ignition Positions With the ignition key in the ignition, you can turn the switch to five different positions. LOCK (B): Before you put the key in, the ignition will be in LOCK. This is the only position from which you can insert or remove the key. This position locks the ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft-deterrent feature.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) The following accessories on your vehicle may be used for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned from RUN to OFF, and then to LOCK: D Radio D Power Windows D Sunroof Power to these accessories stops after 10 minutes or if either door is opened. If you want power for another 10 minutes, turn the ignition key to RUN, to OFF and then to LOCK. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle.
2. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds, hold your key in START for about 10 seconds at a time until your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each try. Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) 3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds.
In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The electrical cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine, behind the transaxle dipstick/fluid fill location (C) and next to the engine.
Automatic Transaxle Operation There are several different positions for the shift lever. PARK (P): This position locks the front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start the engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to.
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index.
B OVERDRIVE ( ): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: D Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push the accelerator pedal about halfway down. D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. The transaxle will shift down to the next gear and have more power. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than OVERDRIVE ( ).
FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. (If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.) NOTICE: If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transaxle.
If the parking brake has not been fully released and you try to drive with the parking brake on, the BRAKE indicator light comes on and stays on. See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index for more information. When you move out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), if the engine is running, the parking brake should release. If it doesn’t, you can manually release the parking brake. CAUTION: Always shift to PARK (P) before pulling the manual release lever.
NOTICE: Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. This section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving. 2-28 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.
Console Shift Lever 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured.
Torque Lock Shifting Out of PARK (P) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index.
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. 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 you ever have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. See the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust.” Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage.
Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever The lever on the left side of your steering column includes your: Tilt steering allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. Raising the steering wheel to the highest level gives your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle. Hold the steering wheel and pull the lever located on the outboard side of the steering column toward you to tilt the wheel.
Turn and Lane Change Signals To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. The lever returns automatically when the turn is complete. An arrow located on the instrument panel cluster will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change. Raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash to signal a lane change. Hold it there until the lane change is complete. The lever returns when it’s released.
Flash-To-Pass Windshield Wipers This lets you use the high-beam headlamps to signal the driver in front of you that you want to pass. Pull the turn signal lever toward you to use. When you do: D If the headlamps are either off or in the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) mode, the high-beam headlamps will turn on. They’ll stay on as long as you hold the lever there. Release the lever to turn them off. D If the headlamps are on low beam, they will shift to high beam and stay there.
OFF: Turn the band to OFF to turn off the wipers. Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If the blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload the wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.
NOTICE: The wipers must be turned off when going through a car wash to avoid damage. The MIST and “wash” cycles operate as normal and are not affected by the Rainsense function. The Rainsense system can be overridden at any time by manually turning the wiper stalk to LO or HI speed. NOTICE: Do not place stickers or other items on the exterior glass surface directly in front of the moisture sensor. Doing this could cause the moisture sensor to malfunction.
Cruise Control CAUTION: D Cruise control can be dangerous where you D With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below 25 mph (40 km/h). Cruise control shuts off when you apply your brakes. 2-38 can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads.
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. Resuming a Set Speed Setting the cruise control at a desired speed and then applying the brake will end the cruise function.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: D Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Push the button at the end of the lever and then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed. D Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you reach a desired speed and then release the switch.
Using Cruise Control on Hills Exterior Lamps How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brakes or downshifting into FIRST (1) takes you out of cruise control.
Parking Lamps Lamps On Reminder Pull the exterior lamp control knob out to the first stop to turn on the parking as well as the taillamps, sidemarker lamps and instrument panel lights. Push the control knob all the way back in to turn the lamps and lights off. If the manual headlamp control is activated, you will hear a warning chime if you open either door while leaving the lamps on. An exception to this is when you’re using Twilight Sentinel.
When the Twilight Sentinel switch is on and it’s dark enough outside, the high-beam headlamps (at reduced intensity) will turn off and normal low-beam headlamp operation will occur. When the Twilight Sentinel switch is on and it’s bright enough outside, the regular lamps will go off, and the high-beam headlamps at reduced brightness will take over for the DRL.
Twilight SentinelR This control is located next to the exterior lamp control knob. It automatically turns the lamps on and off by sensing how dark it is outside. To operate the Twilight Sentinel, leave the exterior lamp control knob off and move the TWILIGHT control to any position but OFF. 2-44 If you move the control all the way to the right, the lamps will remain on for approximately three minutes after the ignition has been turned to OFF or LOCK.
Light Sensor Exterior Lighting Battery Saver If the manual parking lamp control has been left on, the exterior lamps will turn off approximately 10 minutes after the ignition is turned to LOCK or ACCESSORY. This protects against draining the battery in case you have accidentally left the headlamps or parking lamps on. If you need to purposely leave the lamps on for more than 10 minutes with the ignition in LOCK or ACCESSORY, turn the exterior lamps control knob off and then back on.
Interior Lamps Parade Dimming Instrument Panel Intensity/Brightness Control This feature prohibits the dimming of the instrument panel lights during daylight while the headlamps are on. This feature operates with the light sensor for the Twilight Sentinel and is fully automatic. When the light sensor reads darkness outside, the instrument panel lights can be adjusted by turning the exterior lamps control knob counterclockwise to dim and clockwise to brighten lighting.
Inadvertent Power Battery Saver Mirrors This feature is designed to protect your vehicle’s battery against drainage from the interior lamps, trunk lamp, glove box lamp, cigarette lighters or the garage door opener. When the ignition is turned off, the power to these features will automatically turn off after 10 minutes (three minutes if a new car has 15 miles (24 km) or less).
When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing. Mirror Operation To turn on the automatic dimming feature, press and hold the on/off button for about three seconds. To turn off automatic dimming, press and hold the on/off button for about three seconds again. The green indicator light will be illuminated when this feature is active.
Compass Variance The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if you live outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for compass variance. Compass variance is the difference between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings.
Power Remote Control Mirror (Heated) Your vehicle has an electric mirror control located on the driver’s door armrest. Driver’s Outside Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror Only the driver’s side outside mirror will adjust for the glare of headlamps behind you. This feature is controlled by the on and off settings on the electrochromic mirror. See “Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror with Compass” in the Index.
Convex Outside Mirror Storage Compartments Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat. This mirror does not have a dimming feature. Glove Box 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.
Center Console Storage Rear Storage Armrest (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a rear seat armrest which includes an open storage compartment and a dual cupholder that unfolds for use. To open, lift the front edge. (This feature is available on vehicles with leather interiors only.) Convenience Net The convenience net is located inside the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net.
Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter NOTICE: Don’t put papers or other flammable items into your ashtrays. Hot cigarettes or other smoking materials could ignite them, causing a damaging fire. Front Ashtray The front ashtray is located below the climate control system. To open, press on the lower edge of the cover. Rear Ashtray The rear ashtray is located on the armrest; to use, lift the lid. Cigarette Lighter The cigarette lighter is located near the ashtray. Press it all the way in and release.
OnStarR System (If Equipped) OnStar is a vehicle communications system that offers a variety of services and provides a hands-free communication link between you and the OnStar Center. A service subscription agreement and fee are required in order to receive OnStar service. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, call 1-888-ONSTAR-7 (1-888-667-8277). Emergency Button: In an emergency situation, press the emergency service button.
The light will be red in the event of an OnStar system malfunction. If this occurs press the OnStar button to attempt to contact an advisor. If the connection is made, the advisor will assist you with steps to take to make sure that the system is functioning properly. If you cannot contact the advisor, take your vehicle to your dealership as soon as possible for assistance.
Premium Services (Includes Safety and Security Services) D Route Support -- An advisor can provide directions or guidance to anywhere you want to go. In addition, they can help you locate gas stations, rest areas, ATMs, hospitals, hotels, stores, eateries and more. D Concierge Services -- The concierge advisor can obtain tickets, reservations, or help with vacation/trip planning and other unique items and services.
Floor Mats Your vehicle is equipped with rubber-backed front and rear floor mats. Keep them clean by vacuuming and using a spot cleaner, if necessary. Do not machine wash. Sunroof (Option) The sunroof switch, located on the overhead console, only works when the ignition is on or when the Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. Press the switch rearward and release to express-open the glass panel and sunshade. The sunshade can also be opened by hand.
HomeLinkR Transmitter (Option) Programming the HomeLink Transmitter Do not use the HomeLink Transmitter with any garage door opener that does not have the “stop and reverse” safety 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.
3. Using both hands, press the hand-held transmitter button and the desired button on the HomeLink Transmitter. Continue to press both buttons through Step 4. 4. Hold down both buttons until you see the indicator light on the HomeLink Transmitter flash slowly and then rapidly. The rapid flashing indicates that the HomeLink Transmitter has been programmed. Release both buttons once the indicator light starts to flash rapidly.
To determine if you have this system, press the button on the HomeLink Transmitter that you have programmed already. If the indicator light on the HomeLink Transmitter flashes rapidly for two seconds and then turns solid, the garage door opener has a rolling code system. In a rolling code system, the garage door motor head unit must be trained to the HomeLink Transmitter. 1. Find the training button on the garage door opener motor head unit.
The garage door opener should now recognize the HomeLink Transmitter. You may either use the HomeLink Transmitter or the hand-held transmitter to open the garage door. If after following these instructions, you still have problems training the garage door opener, contact the HomeLink Transmitter manufacturer at 1-800-355-3515. 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.
The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System 2-62
The main components of the instrument panel are: A. Air Outlets H. Hood Release B. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever I. Horn C. Instrument Panel Cluster J. Audio Steering Wheel Controls D. Radio (Audio System) K. Shift Lever E. Driver Information Center Control Buttons L. Climate Control System F. Lamp Controls M. Glove Box G.
Instrument Panel Cluster The instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using and many of the other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.
Speedometer and Odometer English/Metric Display The speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). The odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Press the INFO (SKIP) button until ENGLISH/METRIC RESET displays and then press INFO RESET (NO) to select. You may wonder what happens if a vehicle has to have a new odometer installed.
Tachometer This gage indicates the engine speed in revolutions per minute (RPM). Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators 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.
When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They’re a big help. Your vehicle also has a Driver Information Center that works along with the warning lights and gages. See “Driver Information Center” in the Index.
Charging System Indicator Light CAUTION: If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle, it means the air bag system may not be working properly. The air bags in your vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or they could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle serviced right away if the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle.
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. If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.
The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Traction Control System Warning Light This warning light should come on briefly when the engine is started. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, the engine is too hot. That reading means the same thing as the warning light -- the engine coolant has overheated. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index. 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.
NOTICE: Modifications made to the engine, transaxle, exhaust, intake or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls and may cause the SERVICE ENGINE SOON light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by your warranty. This may also result in a failure to pass a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test.
If the Light Is On Steady Have you recently changed brands of fuel? You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: 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. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Some state/provincial and local governments have or may begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle registration. Oil Pressure Light This light tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure.
Fuel Gage CAUTION: The fuel gage shows approximately how much fuel is in the tank. It works only when the ignition is in RUN. Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. NOTICE: Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty.
Fuel Data Display Everything you need to know about the fuel economy and how far you can travel with your vehicle’s remaining fuel is displayed. Fuel data can be obtained by pressing the INFO (SKIP) button. See “DIC Controls and Displays” later in this section. Driver Information Center (DIC) This display gives you the status of many of your vehicle’s systems. The DIC is also used to display driver personalization features and warning/status messages.
FUEL DOOR: Press this button to open the fuel door. (This feature will work only when the shift lever is in PARK (P) regardless of whether or not the vehicle is running.) TRUNK: Press this button to open the trunk. (This feature will work only when the shift lever is in PARK (P) regardless of whether or not the vehicle is running.) MPG AVG (Reset): Press the INFO (SKIP) button to display the MPG AVG (Average Fuel Economy), then press and hold the NO INFO RESET button until 0.0 MPG AVG is displayed.
DIC Messages These messages will appear if there is a problem sensed in one of your vehicle’s systems. Vehicles that are first sold in Canada will have a number after each message. This number helps to identify the message which is only displayed in English. Pressing the INFO or INFO RESET button(s) will remove most of the following messages from the DIC display: APPLY BRAKE TO SHIFT - 46: This message will appear if your vehicle is in PARK (P) for about 15 seconds and the brake is not pressed.
If this message appears and stays on while driving or after starting your vehicle, have it checked immediately to determine the cause of this problem. To help the generator recharge the battery quickly, you can reduce the load on the electrical system by turning off the accessories. You can monitor battery voltage on the DIC by pressing the INFO (SKIP) button. The normal range is 11.5 to 15.5 volts. CHECK COOLANT LEVEL - 2: This message will appear when there is a low level of engine coolant.
CHECK WASHER FLUID - 25: This message will appear for several seconds indicating that you need windshield washer solvent. CRUISE ENGAGED - 43: This message will appear for a few seconds when you select a speed at which to cruise. DOOR AJAR - 141: A door other than the driver’s is open or ajar when this message appears. The vehicle’s engine must be running and the transaxle not in PARK (P) for this message to display. A chime will also sound when the vehicle’s speed is greater than 5 mph (8 km/h).
FUEL LEVEL LOW - 11: This message serves as a warning that the fuel level in the tank is critically low. Stop for fuel soon. HEADLAMPS SUGGESTED - 23: If it’s dark enough outside and the Twilight Sentinel control is off, a HEADLAMPS SUGGESTED message will display on the DIC. This message informs the driver that turning on the exterior lamps is recommended even though the Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) are still illuminated (it’s become dark enough outside to require the headlamps and/or other exterior lamps).
REMOVE KEY - 70: This message will appear when the Personalized Automotive Security System (PASS-KeyR II) is unable to read the pellet on the ignition key or an improper key pellet has been inserted. This message usually appears following the display of STARTING DISABLED REMOVE KEY. The instrument panel cluster will then run a timer and change the messages to WAIT 3 MINUTES, WAIT 2 MINUTES, WAIT 1 MINUTE and then START CAR. When the REMOVE KEY message is displayed, remove the ignition key.
SERVICE STEERING SYS - 127: This message is displayed when a problem has been detected in the MagnasteerR variable effort steering system. Service is required. A single chime will also sound when this message is displayed. SERVICE TRANSMISSION - 100: If a problem is detected with the transaxle, this message will appear. Have your vehicle checked by your dealership. SERVICE VEHICLE SOON - 3: If a problem is detected with the transaxle, this message will appear. Have your vehicle checked by your dealership.
STARTING DISABLED REMOVE KEY - 33: This message will appear when the Personalized Automotive Security System (PASS-KeyR II) senses that an improper ignition key is being used to try to start the vehicle. Check the ignition key for damage. If it is damaged, it may need to be replaced. If you see no damage, clean the pellet contacts with a soft cloth or napkin. Remove the ignition key and wait for the DIC to display WAIT 3 MINUTES.
TRACTION SUSPENDED - 56: This message displays when the traction control system has been temporarily shut off because your vehicle’s brakes have overheated. This message does not indicate a problem with your vehicle’s traction control system. After a few minutes, the traction control system will be available again and the TRACTION READY message will appear.
Memory and Personalization Features (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with the following features that can be individually programmed, memorized or personalized for up to two drivers. For a brief description of each feature, look up each feature for a page reference in the Index. Memory Seat and Mirrors To begin programming, adjust the driver’s seat (including lumbar adjustments) and both outside mirrors to a comfortable position and then press the SET button. Within five seconds, press button “1.
DOORS LOCK IN GEAR: All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock. DRIVR UNLOCK IN PARK: All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). Only the driver’s door automatically unlocks when shifted into PARK (P). DRIVR UNLOCK KEY OFF: All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). Only the driver’s door automatically unlocks when the ignition key is turned to OFF.
Lock/Unlock Confirmation This personalization feature allows the driver to program the parking lamps to blink when the lock or unlock buttons on the remote keyless entry transmitter are pressed, to program the horn to sound when the lock button is pressed and/or to program the exterior lamps to turn on when the unlock button is pressed. Press the YES TRIP RESET button to answer yes, press the NO INFO RESET button to indicate no or press the SKIP INFO button to skip to the next personalization feature.
To skip past the first two personalization features, press the SKIP INFO button. When REMOTE RECALL MEMORY appears, the driver is able to recall memory settings when the unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed. Press the YES TRIP RESET button to select or press the NO INFO RESET button to answer no and to continue on to the next prompt. FEATURE ON displays when a yes response is made. If a no response was made, the KEY IN RECALL MEMORY prompt will show next.
FEATURE ON appears when a yes response is made and FEATURE OFF shows when a no response is made. Since this is the last personalization feature available, a yes or no response will end out of the Driver Information Center (DIC) display. Once the battery guard has been programmed, your vehicle will enter the storage mode about 20 minutes after the ignition key has been turned off. Your vehicle will stay in the storage mode until the ignition key is turned out of LOCK.
Oil Life Indicator This feature lets you know when to change the engine oil. It’s based on the engine oil temperatures and your driving patterns. To see the display, press the SKIP INFO button several times until XX OIL LIFE LEFT appears. If you see 99% OIL LIFE LEFT, 99 percent of your current oil life remains. The Driver Information Center (DIC) may display a CHANGE ENGINE OIL message. Always keep a written record of the mileage and date when you changed your oil.
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 Driver’s Side Temperature Knob This section tells you how to make your air system work for you. The TEMP/AUTO knob adjusts the air temperature coming through the system. Turn the TEMP/AUTO knob clockwise to increase the temperature and counterclockwise to decrease the temperature. Press the TEMP/AUTO knob to put the system in the automatic mode. With the ECC system, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle.
The outside temperature sensor is located near the front grille. The sensor can be affected by road or engine heat during idling, slow driving or when the engine is first started after a short trip. In order to ensure proper automatic climate control operation, the outside air temperature display may not update as quickly as expected. This is to allow the air surrounding the outside temperature sensor to be as close to the actual outside conditions as possible.
If your vehicle is sitting out on a hot day and you have it set on AUTO, the air will first flow out the floor air outlets for a few seconds. That is normal. This is to expel hot air from the air outlets. As the air is cooled, the airflow will move through the air conditioning outlets. If you start your vehicle with the fan setting on HI, it will skip the air conditioning purge. To avoid blowing cold air in cold weather, the system will delay turning on the fan until warm air is available.
FAN SPEEDS: Press the button with the fan symbol on it until AUTO is displayed on the screen. At this setting, the fan speed is automatically controlled. If it is cold outside, the blower may not run in the maximum high fan speed right away. The system checks the temperature of the engine coolant to assure it is warm enough to provide heat. When the engine coolant is warm, the controller allows the fan to gradually increase to a higher speed.
Electronic Solar Sensor Air Conditioning On hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down. Then keep your windows closed for the air conditioner to work its best. Press the AC button or the TEMP/AUTO knob to turn the system on and then select the proper mode to direct airflow. The system will cool and dehumidify the air inside the vehicle.
Heating Rear Window Defogger Press the MODE button to select heater. Adjust the interior temperature to a comfortable level and if the fan speed needs adjusting, press the up or down arrow. The lines you see on the rear window warm the glass. Press this button to turn on the rear defogger. With it, the rear window and both outside rearview mirrors are heated. Outside air will be brought in and sent through the floor, air conditioning or bi-level outlets (depending on the condition).
Ventilation System Your vehicle’s flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the heater or the air conditioning fan is running. The direction of airflow for the rear seats can also be adjusted. Move the fan lever to adjust the blower speed from low to high. Move the vent lever to direct the airflow. The front outlets are located in the center and at each side of the instrument panel.
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 the windows. D When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, adjust the fan to the highest speed for a few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake outlets of snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of the windows.
Climate Control Personalization (If Equipped) AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player This feature allows both driver’s (driver 1 or 2 depending on the number on the back of your remote keyless entry transmitter) to personalize their own climate control settings. For more information, see “Memory and Personalization Features” in the Index. Audio Systems Your audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure.
HR or MN: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this button. DSPL: Press this button to display the radio station being played. Finding a Station BAND: Press this button to select AM, FM1 or FM2. SEEK-TUNE: Press and release this button to seek to the next higher or lower radio station. Pressing and holding this button until a chime sounds puts the radio in a tune mode. In this mode, higher or lower radio stations are advanced to in small increments until the SEEK-TUNE button is released.
Setting the Tone Playing a Cassette Tape BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase and counterclockwise to decrease bass. With the radio on, insert a cassette tape. The tape will begin playing as soon as it is inserted. When one side of your cassette tape is done playing, auto reverse plays the other side of your cassette tape. If you want to insert a cassette tape when the ignition is off, first press the eject button.
REV: Press the left arrow to rewind the tape rapidly. The radio will play while the tape reverses and REV will appear on the display. You may use your station pushbuttons to tune to another radio station while in REV mode. Press the left arrow again to return to playing speed. FF: Press the right arrow to fast forward to another part of the tape. The radio will play while the tape advances and FF will appear on the display.
CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold the eject button for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset. Your cassette tape player automatically reduces background noise from tapes.
HR or MN: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this button. SOURCE: Press this button to select a source. Sources include cassette and compact disc. The audio source must be loaded to play. Available loaded sources are shown on the display. If a source is being used, it will be underlined on the display. If none of the audio sources are loaded, NO SOURCE LOADED will appear on the display. Press this button again or press BAND to switch back to the radio.
Using RDS Mode Your audio system is equipped with Radio Data Systems (RDS). RDS mode gives you many useful new features. When RDS is on, the radio can: D seek only to stations with the types of programs you want to listen to, D seek to stations with traffic announcements, D receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies, D receive and display messages from radio stations and D search for a stronger station when a station is too weak for listening.
REGION: You can also use the RDS button to access the region function. When an RDS station becomes weak, this function searches for a stronger station within the same network. A network can span a great distance. One network can have stations spread across a country or continent. Each network breaks down into regions. With regions, local news items like weather and traffic are available to you. When the region function is on, the radio only searches for stations in the same network and region.
MSG (3): When RDS is on, if the current station has a message, MSG will appear on the display. Press the RDS SELECT button, followed by this button to see the message. If the whole message does not appear on the display, parts of the message will appear every three seconds until the message is completed. To see the parts of the message faster than every three seconds, press this button again. A new group of words will appear on the display.
PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite Program Types (PTYs). These buttons have factory PTY presets. See “Radio Data Systems (RDS) Program Type (PTY) Selections” in the Index. You can set up to 12 PTYs (six FM1 and six FM2). Just: 1. Turn PTY on. 2. Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2. 3. Tune in an RDS station with the PTY you desire. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons for more than two seconds until you hear a beep.
When an alert announcement comes on the tuned radio station or a related network station, you will hear it, even if the volume is muted or a cassette tape or compact disc is playing. If the radio tunes to a related network station for an alert announcement, it will return to the original station when the announcement is finished. If the cassette tape or compact disc player is playing, play will stop for the announcement and resume when the announcement is finished.
D LIVE: This setting is used to enhance the stereo effect. D AUDITORIUM: This setting is used to make the listening space seem larger. Adjusting the Speakers TONE: Press and release this button until the desired BALANCE or FADE control is found. LEVEL: After selecting the desired BALANCE or FADE control, press the plus (+) or minus (-) symbol on this button to select the desired level. Playing a Cassette Tape With the radio on, insert a cassette tape. The tape will begin playing as soon as it is inserted.
RW: Press the left arrow to rewind the tape rapidly. The radio will play while the tape rewinds. You may use your station pushbuttons to tune to another radio station while in RW mode. Press the left arrow again to return to playing speed. FF: Press the right arrow to fast forward to another part of the tape. The radio will play while the tape advances. You may use your station pushbuttons to tune to another radio station while in FF mode. Press the right arrow again to return to playing speed.
Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. If the ignition and the radio are on and the underlined compact disc symbol appears on the display, the disc will begin playing. Compact discs may be loaded with the radio off but they will not start playing until the radio is on. If you want to insert a disc when the ignition is off, first press the eject button. The integral CD player can play the smaller 8 cm compact discs.
Radio Data Systems (RDS) Program Type (PTY) Selections PTY List Description Adlt Hit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adult Hits Any . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Any Classicl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Classical Cls Rock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Classical Rock College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . College Country . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CD Adapter Kits Trunk-Mounted CD Changer (Option) 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. With the compact disc changer, you can play up to 12 discs continuously. Normal size discs may be played using the trays supplied in the magazine. The smaller discs (8 cm) can be played only with specially designed trays. To activate the bypass feature, use the following steps: 1.
You must first load the magazine with discs before you can play a compact disc. Each of the 12 trays holds one disc. Press the button on the back of the magazine and pull gently on one of the trays. Load the trays from bottom to top, placing a disc on the tray label side down. If you load a disc label side up, the disc will not play and an error will occur. Gently push the tray back into the magazine slot. Repeat this procedure for loading up to 12 discs in the magazine.
Close the door by sliding it all the way to the left. When the door is closed, 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. The magazine will automatically eject. Remember to keep the door closed whenever possible to keep dirt and dust from getting inside the changer.
SEEK-TUNE: Press the right arrow to seek to the next selection. Press the left arrow to search for the previous track selection. The sound will mute while seeking. TUNE-SEEK: When this button is pressed, it has two positions. This button works the same, whether it is pressed to the first or second position. Press this button to seek to the next or previous selection on the compact disc. SCAN: Press this button. You will hear the first few seconds of the first track on each disc.
Compact Disc Changer Errors CD CHANGER ERROR could be displayed for the following: D The road is too rough. The disc should play when the road is smoother. D The disc is dirty, scratched, wet or loaded label side up. D The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again. CD CHANGER DOOR OPEN is displayed when the CD changer door is left open. (CHEK DOOR will be displayed instead on the AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player.) Completely close the changer door to restore normal operation.
Your radio can store home and away presets. Home and away presets allow you to use one set of preset radio settings in the area where you live, and another set when you go out of town. That way, you will not need to reprogram your presets every time you travel. With the radio off and the clock displayed, use FF and RW to select home or away presets. To select the away presets, press and hold FF for five counts until you hear a beep. The next time the radio comes on, the away presets will be active.
Audio Steering Wheel Controls Some audio controls can be adjusted at the steering wheel. They include the following: When listening to a cassette tape, the up or down arrow lever can be used to SEEK forward and rearward through the tape. Pressing the up or down arrow lever when listening to a CD will cause the player to go to the next or previous selection. When in Radio Data Systems (RDS) Program Type (PTY) mode, the up or down arrow lever can be used to perform a PTY preset seek.
Weather Band (If Equipped) Weather band is restricted to speech and the audio quality is not as good as with the AM or FM bands. Depending on location, the radio should receive one or two channels. Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing.
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player. Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use.
When the cleaning cassette has been ejected, the broken tape detection feature is active again. You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner. The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning cassette is not recommended.
Power Antenna Mast Care Your power antenna will look its best and work well if it’s cleaned from time to time. To clean the antenna mast: 1. Turn on the ignition and radio to raise the antenna. NOTICE: Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication could damage it. 2. Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or equivalent solvent. 3. Wipe the cloth over the mast sections, removing any dirt. NOTICE: 4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth.
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.
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. The obvious way to solve the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem.
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.
You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here’s what happens with ABS. As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at both rear wheels. Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance.
Traction Control System Your vehicle has a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the front wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system works the front brakes and reduces engine power to limit wheel spin. The TRACTION ENGAGED message will display on the Driver Information Center when the traction control system is limiting wheel spin.
To turn the system off, press the TRAC OFF button located inside the glove box. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. MagnasteerR This system continuously adjusts the effort you feel when steering at all vehicle speeds. It provides ease when parking yet a firm, solid feel at highway speeds. The TRACTION OFF message will display on the Driver Information Center.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate.
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 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 your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.) D Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on two-lane roads.
If you have StabilitrakR, you may see the STABILITY SYS ENGAGED message on the Driver Information Center. See “Stability Sys Engaged Message” in the Index. Driving at Night Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited.
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. But as we get older these differences increase.
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads 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 Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles.
Driving Through Deep Standing Water NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly. Driving Through Flowing Water CAUTION: Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces.
City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: D Know the best way to get to where you are 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.
Freeway Driving 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. At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic.
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move slightly slower at night. 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. The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion.
Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
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. D Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. D Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.
Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: D Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. D You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful. What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all.
Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index. If You’re Caught in a Blizzard D Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. D Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice.
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.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes. Loading Your Vehicle Recreational Vehicle Towing Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with all four wheels on the ground.
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. The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
CAUTION: Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. D Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a trunk, put them as far forward as you can. Try to spread the weight evenly. D Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats. D Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. D When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this part.
Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg). This is the total maximum weight, including the load. But even that can be too heavy. The maximum trailer weight for your vehicle can be determined from the Gross Combined Vehicle Weight (GCVW). The GCVW = curb weight + passenger’s weight + cargo weight + trailer weight. The GCVW should never weigh more than 5, 900 lbs. (2 679 kg) total loaded vehicle and trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Tire-Loading Information label at the rear edge of the driver’s door or see “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig.
Backing Up Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer 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. When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your dealer.
Parking on Hills CAUTION: You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: D Start your engine; D Shift into a gear; and D Be sure the parking brake has released.
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 in to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. 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. This light on the instrument panel will flash, indicating that the hazard warning flashers are on. The hazard warning flashers will work once the button is pressed in regardless of the ignition key position.
Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Please follow the steps below to do it safely. CAUTION: Pull out on the collar to turn the flashers off. When the hazard warning flashers are on, the turn signals won’t work since they are already flashing. 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.
NOTICE: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. The ACDelcoR battery in your vehicle has a built-in hydrometer. Do not charge, test or jump start the battery if the hydrometer looks clear or light yellow. Replace the battery when there is a clear or light yellow hydrometer and a cranking complaint. Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it won’t work, and it could damage your vehicle. 1. Check the other vehicle.
4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each battery. CAUTION: An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. 5. Start by removing the red positive (+) terminal cover. CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light.
6. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could also be damaged. 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. Don’t connect positive (+) to negative (-) or you will get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts, too. Also, don’t connect negative (-) to negative (-).
8. Don’t let the other end of the positive (+) cable touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. 9. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) terminal. Don’t let the other end of the negative (-) cable 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 part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.
10. Your vehicle has a remote negative (-) terminal, marked “GND (-)” located near the power steering fluid reservoir. Attach the cable to the remote negative terminal provided. 11. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for awhile. 12. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service. 13. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal.
3. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the vehicle with the good battery. Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode 4. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the other vehicle. Should an overheated engine condition exist and the message ENGINE OVERHEATED, STOP ENGINE is displayed, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, you will notice a loss in power and engine performance.
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 you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned.
NOTICE: If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If your air conditioner is on, turn it off. If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index. 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.
Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. A. Coolant Surge Tank with Pressure Cap B.
A low coolant level should be indicated by a CHECK COOLANT LEVEL message on the Driver Information Center. If it is, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. 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.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the proper level (2.5 inches (6.4 cm) below the base of the fill neck), add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOLR coolant at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information.
CAUTION: (Continued) your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOLR coolant. NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. So use the recommended coolant. CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts.
2. Then keep turning the cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. 5-16 3. Then fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mixture, to the base of the filler neck.
4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mixture to the coolant surge tank until the level reaches about 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) below the base of the filler neck. 5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.
If a Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. Pull the carpeting from the floor of the trunk. Turn the retainer (center dial) on the compact spare cover counterclockwise to remove it. Lift and remove the cover. (See “Compact Spare Tire” in the Index for more information about the compact spare.
Lift up the tire to remove it from the trunk. 5-20 Turn the nut holding the jack and wheel wrench counterclockwise and remove it. Then remove the jack and wrench.
Removing the Wheel Cover The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and the wheel wrench (B). There is a center wheel cover on the aluminum wheel. Using the flat end of the wheel wrench, gently pry the wheel cover off. Be careful not to scratch the aluminum wheel edge and don’t try to remove it with your hands.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire Find the jacking location from the diagram above and corresponding cutouts in the plastic molding. 1. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet. 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.
CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle. 2. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack. Turn the wheel wrench counterclockwise to lower the jack lift head until the jack fits under the vehicle. 3.
7. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 8. Place the spare on the wheel-mounting surface. 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.
9. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. 10. Lower the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.
11. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. 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 100 lb-ft (140 N·m).
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. After you’ve put the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you’ll need to store the flat tire in your trunk. Put the flat tire in the trunk so the side that faces out when it is on the vehicle is facing down. The full-size tire will not fit down into the well.
Storing the Spare Tire and Tools CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See the storage instructions label to replace your compact spare into your trunk properly.
Compact Spare Tire Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles. Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your spare tire and its wheel together.
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow NOTICE: 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. Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle.
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.
Be sure the posted octane for regular is at least 87 (at least 91 for premium). If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at the recommended octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal, and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging.
NOTICE: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. Fuels in Foreign Countries 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.
The fuel door release is located above the radio on the Driver Information Center (DIC) and on the remote keyless entry transmitter. This button works only when the shift lever is in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and the VALET lockout switch is in OFF. An alternate fuel door release is located inside of the trunk on the driver’s side. Pull it to release the fuel door. 6-6 While refueling, hang the cap by the tether from the hook on the filler door.
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 Pull the lever inside the vehicle to open the hood. It is located on the lower left side of the instrument panel. Then go to the front of the vehicle and find the secondary hood release, which is located under the front edge of the grille. Lift up on the release lever as you raise the hood.
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood, you’ll see: A. B. C. D. Battery Engine Coolant Surge Tank Power Steering Fluid Engine Oil Fill Location 6-10 E. Engine Oil Dipstick F. Brake Master Cylinder G. Transaxle Dipstick/Fluid Fill Location H. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter I.
Before closing the hood, be sure all filler caps are on properly. Then pull the hood down and close it firmly. Underhood Lamp Turn the parking lamps on to operate the underhood lamp. The underhood lamp will come on when the hood is opened. Engine Oil If the CHECK OIL LEVEL message appears on the instrument panel, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see CHECK OIL LEVEL message in the Index.
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. NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the upper mark that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged. When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD line, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the starburst symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this starburst symbol. If you change your own oil, be sure you use oil that has the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container.
As in the chart shown previously, 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. _ _ 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.
How to Reset the Oil Life Indicator What to Do with Used Oil 1. After the oil has been changed, display the OIL LIFE LEFT message by pressing the SKIP INFO button. Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 1. With a screwdriver, loosen the air duct clamp, which is located at the mass airflow sensor end of the air duct. 2. Disconnect the air duct from the mass airflow sensor. The engine air cleaner/filter is located next to the windshield washer fluid reservoir on the driver’s side of the engine. For more information on location, see “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index.
3. Unhook both engine air cleaner/filter cover latches. One latch is located near the radiator hose (not shown) and the other latch is located next to the IAT sensor. 4. Pivot the air cleaner and air duct assembly toward the front of the vehicle. Remove the cover. 5. Take out the engine air cleaner/filter and remove any loose debris that may be found in the base. 6. Install a new engine air cleaner/filter element. See “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in the Index.
Follow these steps to reinstall the engine air cleaner/filter assembly: 1. Slide the lid into the slots in the front edge of the base. 2. Pivot the cover and the air duct assembly downward. Make sure that both latches are secure and fully engaged. 3. Reinstall the clean air duct over the mass airflow sensor. Make sure that the duct is secure around the entire outer edge of the sensor. CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid How to Check When to Check and Change Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180_F to 200_F (82_C to 93_C). Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50_F (10_C). If it’s colder than 50_F (10_C), you may have to drive longer. Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: D Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running.
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfill. 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level.
How to Reset Transaxle Fluid Change Indicator Your vehicle is equipped with a transaxle fluid change indicator. A CHANGE TRANS FLUID message will display on the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the powertrain computer determines that the transaxle fluid needs to be changed or at each 100,000 miles (160 000 km) interval, whichever occurs first. See your Maintenance Schedule booklet for more information.
NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOLR (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine coolant will require change sooner -- at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the use of coolant other than DEX-COOLR is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.
NOTICE: Checking Coolant If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. NOTICE: If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system.
The cooling system is under a lot of pressure when it is hot. If the CHECK COOLANT LEVEL message appears on the Driver Information Center (DIC), you will need to add coolant. The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the full cold mark, which is 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) below the base of the fill neck. Use a flashlight as necessary to see into the tank.
Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOLR coolant mixture at the surge tank, but only when the engine is cool. 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 replacing the pressure cap, make sure it is hand-tight.
Power Steering Fluid The power steering fluid reservoir and dipstick are located next to the coolant surge tank on the passenger’s side of the engine. For more information on location, see “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index. When to Check Power Steering Fluid How to Check Power Steering Fluid Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down, 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.
Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid The CHECK WASHER FLUID message will be displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the fluid is low.
Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. Brakes Brake Fluid 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.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off” your brake fluid.
NOTICE: D Using the wrong fluid can badly damage D brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.
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. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque specifications. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.
Vehicle Storage Bulb Replacement If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative (-) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down. For the proper type of replacement bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. CAUTION: Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the Index for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
Headlamps 3. Turn the headlamp housing socket counterclockwise to unlock the socket from the lamp housing. 1. To access the headlamps, turn the lock tabs in the direction of the arrows as shown on the headlamp cover. 2. Lift off the cover.
4. Remove the headlamp housing socket. 5. After removing the wiring harness from the headlamp housing socket, replace the bulb and socket. Reconnect it to the wiring harness and reinstall the headlamp housing socket back into the headlamp assembly.
Front Turn Signal Lamps 1. The turn signal lamps are located on the outboard side of the headlamps. To access them, turn the lock tabs on the headlamp cover in the direction of the arrows and then lift off the cover. (See Steps 1 and 2 under “Headlamps” listed previously.) 3. Remove the turn signal lamp housing socket and replace the bulb. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 to reassemble. 2. Turn the housing socket counterclockwise to unlock the socket from the lamp housing.
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) 3. Replace the bulb. 1. Lift the trim cover to remove. 2. Twist the socket counterclockwise and remove the socket and bulb from the housing.
Rear Turn Signal Lamps and Taillamps 1. Open the trunk to gain access to the lamp housing. 5. Press the bulb housing lever and turn the housing counterclockwise to remove it. To remove the bulb, push and turn it counterclockwise. 2. Remove the convenience net and pull the trim away to access the wing nuts. 3. Remove the two wing nuts. 4. Gently remove the lamp housing.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Wiper Blade Check” in the Maintenance Schedule booklet under Part B “Owner Checks and Services” for more information. It’s a good idea to clean or replace the wiper blade assembly on a regular basis or when worn. For proper windshield wiper blade length and type, see “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in the Index. To replace the wiper blade assembly: 1.
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 Vehicle Warranty booklet for details. CAUTION: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous. D Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index.
Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label, which is located 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). If you’ll be driving at high speeds (e.g.
When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa). 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. How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure.
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” in the Index. CAUTION: 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.
Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information 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. That way your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
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.
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. 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.
Tire Chains NOTICE: If your vehicle has P235/60R16 size tires, 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.
Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you’re cleaning the inside.
Here are some cleaning tips: D D D D Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. Clean up stains as soon as you can -- before they set. Carefully scrape off any excess stain. Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn. D If a ring forms on fabric after spot cleaning, clean the entire area immediately or it will set. Cleaning Vinyl Use warm water and a clean cloth. D Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt.
Cleaning Wood Panels Cleaning Glass Surfaces Use a clean cloth moistened in warm, soapy water (use mild dish washing soap). Dry the wood immediately with a clean cloth. 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. Cleaning Speaker Covers Vacuum around a speaker cover gently, so that the speaker won’t be damaged.
Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades and affect their performance. Clean the blade by wiping vigorously with a cloth soaked in full-strength windshield washer solvent. Then rinse the blade with water. Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary; replace blades that look worn. 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.
NOTICE: Cleaning Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels (If Equipped) Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks. Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then be applied.
Cleaning Tires Sheet Metal Damage To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. If your vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to the parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. NOTICE: When applying a tire dressing always take care to wipe off any overspray or splash from all painted surfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle.
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 rear wall of the trunk on the passenger’s side. 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 has an individual fuse which is powered by a MaxiFuseR. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have the 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.
MaxiFuseR/Relay Center The MaxiFuses and relays are located next to the engine compartment fuse block on the driver’s side of the engine. To access the compartment fuse block, remove the shroud cover. If a MaxiFuse should blow, have your vehicle serviced by your dealer immediately.
MaxiFuse (8-Way) BODY 3 Usage Controlled Power Relay, Controlled Power Back-Up Relay, Cluster Fuse, Passenger Zone Module (PZM) Fuse, Radio Fuse, RAP Relay, Trunk and Fuel Door Release Relay, High-Beam Relay, Comfort Fuse, AMP Fuse (Optional), Right and Left Bose Relay (Optional) INADVERT Inadvertent Power Relay, Interior Lamps Fuse, Cigarette Lighter-1 Fuse, Courtesy Lamp Relay LAMPS Headlamps Fuse/Relay, High/Low Beam Control Relay, Fog Lamp Fuse, DRL Fuse, Hazard Fuse, Mirror Fuse, Inadvertent Power
MaxiFuse (6-Way) Usage BATT 3 Usage Steering Column Ignition Switch Power Distribution Block BATT 2 Steering Column Ignition Switch DRL Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) IGN 1 Front Ignition-1 Relay, Oxygen Sensor 1 and 2 Fuse, Fuel Fuse, Cruise Fuse, Fuel Pump Relay HI/LO BEAM High and Low-Beam Headlamps HORN Horn FOG LPS Fog Lamps ACCESSORY Accessories HEAD LPS Headlamps BATT 1 Starter Relay and Solenoid, Park/Reverse Fuse, Park Relay, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Fuse, AC Compressor F
Fuses and Circuit Breakers Underhood Fuse Block The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating.
Fuse L HDLP LO R HDLP LO L HDLP HI R HDLP HI FOG HDLPS HAZARD STOP Fuse CNR LPS INT LPS CIG LTR1 Usage Cornering Lamp Switch, Right and Left Cornering Lamps Trunk Lamp, Courtesy Lamps, Front Vanity Lamps, Glove Box Lamp, Garage Door Opener, Courtesy Lamp Relay Front and Rear Cigarette Lighters MIRROR Usage Left Low-Beam Headlamp Right Low-Beam Headlamp Left High-Beam Headlamp Right High-Beam Headlamp Fog Lamp Relay, Right and Left Fog Lamps, Headlamp Switch Headlamp Relay, High/Low-Beam Control Relay,
Fuse DRL IGN 0 (ENG) CRANK ABS IGN-1 WIPERS A/C COMP PCM (BAT) PARK/REV 6-64 Usage Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) Relay, Left and Right Low Beam in DRL Mode Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)/Traction Control System Rear Ignition-1 Relay, Front Fog Lamp Relay, Controlled Power Backup Relay, DRL Relay, Canister Vent Solenoid Accessory Relay, Wiper Switch AC Compressor Relay, Cooling Fan Relays 1, 2, 3, Compressor Clutch PCM Reverse Relay, Right and L
Rear Compartment Fuse Block Fuse Usage The fuse block is located on the front wall of the trunk (behind the rear seat) on the driver’s side. Loosen the four trunk trim fasteners and pull the trim away from the fuse block to gain access.
Fuse Usage Fuse Usage RADIO/PHONE Radio Receiver, Radio Interface Module (RIM) (Optional), Phone, RAP Relay, Trunk Release Relay, Fuel Door Release Relay, High/Low-Beam Relay CONVENC CLUSTER Steering Wheel Controls, Cluster Trunk Release Relay, Trunk Release Solenoid, Fuel Door Release Relay, Fuel Filler Door Release Solenoid, Door Lock Relay, Left and Right Door Motors, PZM, Door Unlock Relay ACC PZM, Electrochromic Mirror, Rain Sensor (Optional), Accessory Relay BATT HTD MIR Right and Left O
Replacement Bulbs Application Number Headlamps Composite Inner High Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9005 Outer Low Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9006 Front Turn Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3157 NA Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) . . . 1156 Rear Turn Signal and Taillamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2057 Capacities and Specifications The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions.
Wheel Nut Torque 100 lb-ft (140 N·m) Capacities Transaxle (4T80-E) . . . . . . . . . . 15.0 quarts (14.2 L) Crankcase (Engine Oil with Filter Change) . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.5 quarts (7.1 L) Engine Cooling System . . . . . . . 12.5 quarts (11.8 L) Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19.0 U.S. gallons (71.9 L) All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this manual. Recheck fluid level after filling.
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.
Customer Assistance Offices Canada 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.
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 $37.00 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 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS 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: In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us.
2001 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.
