2001 Chevrolet Corvette Owner's Manual Litho in U.S.A.
Table of Contents Seats and Restraint Systems Section 1 Seats and Seat Controls Safety Belts Air Bag System Restraint Systems for Children Features and Controls Section 2 ii Windows Keys and Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Hatch/Trunk Lid Release Automatic Transmission Manual Transmission Parking Brake Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Windshield Wipers Cruise Control Exterior and Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Convenience Net Accessory Power Outlet Instrument Panel,
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 (Option) Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature Your Driving and the Road Section 4 Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Driving Tips for Various Road Conditions Recreational Vehicle Towing Loading Your Vehicle Towing a Trailer Problems on the Road Section 5 Hazard Warning Flashers Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engi
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 Section 7 iv Scheduled Maintenance Owner Checks and Services Periodic Maintenance Inspections Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Mainte
Table of Contents (cont'd) Customer Assistance Information Section 8 Customer Satisfaction Procedures Customer Assistance Offices Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation Warranty Information (See Warranty Manual) Reporting Safety Defects on page 8-10 Service Publications Index Section 9 In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.
We support voluntary technician certification. GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, the name CORVETTE and the CORVETTE Emblem 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.
Corvette: The American Dream Machine In the early ’50s, it was only a designer’s dream. Today the Corvette stands alone as America’s dream car -- a testament to its unmistakable charisma and the excitement it inspires. Unique styling, powerful performance and an undeniable panache have made Corvette one of the most celebrated sports cars in the world. In 1953, Corvette produced 300 new lightweight fiberglass roadsters.
In 1963, Corvette hit the road with an eye-catching new look -- the Sting Ray coupe. An instant success, the now-classic Sting Ray featured concealed headlamps and a unique split rear window. The split window would only be offered in 1963, making this model among the most prized Corvettes ever built. Restyled inside and out for 1968, this ’Vette sported a lean and hungry shape, creating a sense of motion even when standing still. And for the first time, Corvette offered removable roof panels.
For its 25th anniversary, the 1978 Corvette paced the 62nd Annual Indianapolis 500 and received a new fastback roofline with a wide expanse of glass that wrapped around the sides.
The structure of the fifth-generation redesign is the stiffest ever developed in 44 years of Corvette production, resulting in unparalleled ride quality and outstanding handling. Also unique to the new Corvette is a rear-mounted transmission. In 1984, the fourth generation of America’s favorite sports car anticipated the future with a sleek look and advanced technology that provided superior handling and performance.
Corvette Assembly Plant The Corvette Assembly Plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky is one of the most sophisticated and computerized automobile assembly facilities in the world. To build your 2001 Corvette, over 1,025 employes teamed up with the 58 high-tech robots that assist in a variety of processes, from welding to painting. The Bowling Green facility is Corvette’s third home since 1953. Since beginning production in June of 1981, it has become one of Kentucky’s most popular tourist attractions.
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. CAUTION: These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people. In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard.
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.
Model Reference This manual covers these models: Z06 Convertible Coupe xv
Service Station Guide For a More Detailed Look at What's Under the Hood Cooling System Battery See Section 5 See Section 6 Tire Pressure See Section 6 See Section 6 Engine Oil Dipstick See Section 6 Alternate Fuel Door Release See Section 6 Oil Viscosity Engine Oil See Section 6 Windshield Washer Hood Release Fluid See Section 6 See Section 6 Remote Fuel Release Door Fuel Use unleaded only. See Section 6 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 part tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining seatbacks and seatback latches. Manual Seats CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.
Power Seats (Option) Sport Seat (Option) The control for the power seats is located on the outboard side of each seat, near the base. Different parts of the power seat control move different parts of the seat. To move the seat forward or rearward, move the control in that direction. Move the control up to raise the seat and down to lower it. By tilting the back of the control, it will raise or lower the back of the seat. Tilting the front of the control will raise or lower the front of the seat.
Reclining Seatbacks The lever for the reclining seatback is located on the outboard side of each seat, near the base. To adjust the seatback, lean slightly forward to lift your weight off the seatback. Pull completely up on the lever until it stops, and lean back to position the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback into place. 1-4 But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
Seatback Latches CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen.
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. Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the air bag system. 1-6 CAUTION: Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly.
CAUTION: It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly. Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.
Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. Put someone on it. Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.
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. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
Q: What’s wrong with this? CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if 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. Passenger Position The passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position” earlier in this section. Air Bag System This part explains the air bag system.
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.
How the Air Bag System Works The 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 Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the system commands air bag inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. The module also records speed, engine rpm, brake and throttle data. D Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.
This switch should only be turned to AIR BAG OFF if the person in the passenger’s position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows: Medical Condition. A passenger has a medical condition which, according to his or her physician: Infant.
The AIR BAG OFF light on the center console switch panel will come on to let you know that the passenger’s air bag is off. The passenger’s air bag will remain off until you turn it back on again, and the AIR BAG OFF light will stay on to remind you that the air bag is off. To turn off the passenger’s air bag, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to AIR BAG OFF.
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.
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.
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: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle.
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. A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. 1-32 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.
Top Strap CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Be sure to turn off the air bag before using a rear-facing child restraint in the passenger seat position. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle.
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. If your vehicle is a convertible or has a removable roof, don’t use a child restraint with a top strap in your vehicle because the strap cannot be anchored properly. You shouldn’t use this type of child restraint without anchoring the top strap.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Passenger Seat Position Your vehicle has a passenger air bag. There’s an air bag off switch in the glove box you can use to turn off the passenger’s air bag when you want to secure a rear-facing child restraint at the passenger’s position. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index for more on this, including important safety information. Unless the passenger’s air bag has been turned off, never put a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle.
CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Do not use a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle unless the passenger’s air bag has been turned off. If a forward-facing child restraint is suitable for your child, always move the passenger seat as far back as it will go.
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. Your vehicle has a passenger’s air bag. If you are using a rear-facing child restraint in this seat, make sure the air bag is turned off. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index.
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 If you were using a rear-facing child restraint, turn on the passenger’s air bag when you remove the rear-facing child restraint from the vehicle unless the person who will be sitting there is a member of a passenger air bag risk group. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index.
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.
Q: A: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. 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.
Safety Belt Extender Checking Your Restraint Systems If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If you ever see a label on the driver’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help protect you in a collision. You would see this label on the belt near the latch plate.
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. Power Windows With power windows, switches on the door control each window when the ignition is on or when RAP is present. See “Retained Accessory Power (RAP)” in the Index.
Express-Down Windows Both the driver’s and passenger’s window switches have the express-down feature. Tap AUTO and immediately release. The window will lower completely. To stop the express-down feature from lowering the window completely, simply tap the switch again. You can also open the window any amount by pressing and releasing the switch. To close the window, press and hold the up arrow.
Keys CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
One key is used for the ignition, the driver’s door and all other locks. If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call Chevrolet Roadside Assistance. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index for more information. NOTICE: When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer gives the first owner a key and a bar coded tag. Both the key and the tag are attached to a key ring. Your vehicle has a number of features that can help prevent theft.
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.
Power Door Locks Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside or with the remote keyless entry transmitter. Then get out and close the door. Memory (Option) Press the power door switch on either door to unlock or lock both doors at once. Inadvertent Lockout Protection If you press the power door lock switch when a door is open and a key is in the ignition, a chime will sound.
The MEMORY buttons are located on the driver’s door, above the power mirror controls. The MEMORY buttons can store and recall settings for up to three drivers. Use button “1” to store the settings for the first driver, button “2” for a second driver or press buttons 1 and 2 at the same time for a third driver. To store your memory settings: 1. Adjust your settings for the driver’s seat position, outside rearview mirror positions, and telescopic steering wheel (if equipped). 2.
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Your vehicle has a Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system that allows you to lock and unlock your doors, unlock your hatch/trunk lid, turn the panic alarm on and off and disarm or arm your theft-deterrent system. The range distance is as much as 100 feet (30 m) away. Your vehicle comes standard with two transmitters, and up to three can be matched to your vehicle.
If you ever notice a decrease in the remote keyless entry transmitter range, try doing one of the following: D Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. D Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.
The system has a feature that makes it difficult for you to lock your keys in your vehicle. If you leave your keys in the ignition and attempt to lock the doors, the vehicle will not lock and a chime will sound to remind you that the keys are in the ignition. If the door lock is pressed again, within five seconds, the doors will lock and the keys can be locked in the vehicle. This system can’t guarantee that you will never be locked out of your vehicle. Always remember to take your keys with you.
To match transmitters to your vehicle: 1. Turn the ignition key to ON. 2. Clear any warning messages on the Driver Information Center (DIC) by pressing the RESET button. 3. Press the OPTIONS button on the DIC several times until the blank page is displayed, then press and hold the RESET button for two seconds. 4. When the message FOB TRAINING is displayed, push the RESET button once. The message HOLD LK + UNLK 1ST FOB in the DIC will be displayed. 5.
Replacing the Battery in the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Resynchronizing Your Transmitter Your RKE system uses a continually changing code for increased security. Normally, the receiver in your vehicle will keep track of this changing code. If your vehicle does not respond to your transmitter, do the following to determine what’s wrong: 1. Get closer to the vehicle and try pressing a button again. Your battery may be low. If so, see “Battery Replacement” in the Index. 2.
Hatch/Trunk Lid Release Press the button with the trunk symbol on it, located at the left side of the steering column on the instrument panel, to release the hatch/trunk lid from inside your vehicle. The remote keyless entry transmitter will also release the hatch/trunk lid. See “Remote Keyless Entry System” in the Index. If your vehicle is equipped with a hatch and you have lost battery power, use the manual release cables to open the hatch.
Pull each cable straight down for each latch to release the hatch. If your vehicle is equipped with a convertible top/hardtop and you have lost battery power, use the manual release cable to open the trunk lid. To access the cable, remove the center storage compartment lid located in the rear of the trunk area. See “Rear Storage Compartments” in the Index for more information. Pull the cable straight down to release the trunk lid.
CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the hatch/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 hatch/trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the hatch/trunk lid: D Make sure all other windows are shut.
Trunk Release Handle (If Equipped) NOTICE: The trunk release handle was not designed to be used to tie down the trunk lid or as an anchor point when securing items in the trunk. Improper use of the trunk release handle could damage it. There is a glow-in-the-dark trunk release handle located on the rear wall of the trunk below the latch. This handle will glow following exposure to light. Pull the release handle down to open the trunk from the inside.
Theft Parking at Night Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. 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.
Theft-Deterrent System Testing the Alarm Your vehicle is equipped with a theft-deterrent alarm system. Use the following to test the system: With this system, the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off). This light reminds you to arm the theft-deterrent system. 1. Make sure the hatch/trunk lid is latched. 2. Lower the window on the driver’s door. 3. Manually arm the system. 4. Close the doors and wait 15 seconds. 5.
Disarming the System Always use your key or the remote keyless entry transmitter to unlock a door. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm. If your alarm sounds, listed below are the ways you can disarm it: D Unlock the driver’s door with your key. D Put the key in the ignition. D Press the unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. Now, if a door or the hatch/trunk lid is opened without the key or the remote keyless entry transmitter, the alarm will go off.
If this happens and the starter won’t work, turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key, wait three minutes and try again. If the starter still won’t work, wait three minutes and try the other ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuses (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key.
Front Air Dam Your vehicle is equipped with a front air dam which has minimal ground clearance for aerodynamics. For this reason, the air dam has a spring-loaded hinge provided and it will retract with road contact. Ignition Switch With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions. Under normal operation, the air dam will occasionally contact some road surfaces (speed bumps, driveway ramps, etc.). This can be heard inside the vehicle as a scraping noise.
CAUTION: If you have a manual transmission, removing the key from the ignition switch will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could cause a collision. If you need to turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key to ACC. NOTICE: If your key seems stuck in OFF and you can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? Turn the key only with your hand.
Starting Your Engine Manual Transmission This vehicle has a computer system that monitors engine speed, throttle and pedal position, and records the current status. The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL and the parking brake engaged. Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that’s a safety feature. Automatic Transmission Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
2. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while you hold the ignition key in START. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try. When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0_F or -18_C), do this: 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there. When the engine starts, let go of the key.
Racing or Other Competitive Driving Engine Coolant Heater (Canada Only) See your Warranty Book before using your vehicle for racing or other competitive driving. NOTICE: If you use your vehicle for racing or other competitive driving, your engine may use more oil than it would with normal use. Low oil levels can damage the engine.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The electrical cord is attached to the generator bracket assembly, between the generator and the windshield washer fluid tank.With the headlamps closed, route the cord in the opening between the headlamp door and the fender panel on the driver’s side of the vehicle. Do not pinch the cord when closing the hood. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
Automatic Transmission Operation 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. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
Be sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application.
NOTICE: Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty. B AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ): This position is for normal driving. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ). B Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ): B D When driving on hilly, winding roads. D When going down a steep hill.
Manual Transmission Operation This is the shift pattern for the six-speed manual transmission. THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6) the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL.
Shift Speeds (Manual Transmission) CAUTION: If you skip a gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. You could injure yourself or others. Don’t shift down more than one gear at a time when you downshift. This chart shows when to shift to the next higher gear for the best fuel economy. 2-32 If your engine speed drops below 900 rpm, or if the engine is not running smoothly, you should downshift to the next lower gear.
One to Four Shift Light (Manual Transmission) When this light comes on, you can only shift from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) instead of FIRST (1) to SECOND (2). You must complete the shift into FOURTH (4) to turn off this feature. This helps you get the best possible fuel economy. After shifting to FOURTH (4), you may downshift to a lower gear if you prefer. NOTICE: Do not try to force the shift lever into SECOND (2) or THIRD (3) when the 1 TO 4 SHIFT light comes on.
Downshifting (Manual Transmission) Do not downshift into the gear shown below at a speed greater than shown in the table: FIRST (1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 mph (80 km/h) SECOND (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 mph (119 km/h) THIRD (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 mph (163 km/h) FOURTH (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up. This sets your parking brake. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Then push the release button in as you move the parking brake lever all the way down. 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.
Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission Only) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission Only) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.
Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission) Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in ON. See “Automatic Transmission Operation” in the Index. As a reminder, you will see a message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) that will say PRESS BRAKE BEFORE SHIFT within 15 seconds unless the brake is pressed.
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 (Automatic Transmission) 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.
Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD) (Option) You may have a ride control system on your vehicle called Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD). The system provides the following performance benefits: D D D D Reduced Impact Harshness Improved Road Isolation Improved High-Speed Stability Improved Handling Response TOUR: Use for normal city and highway driving. This setting provides a smooth, soft ride. SPORT: Use where road conditions or personal preference demand more control.
Tilt Wheel Telescopic Steering Wheel (If Equipped) A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel. The telescopic steering wheel switch is located on the right side of the steering column. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To operate the telescopic steering wheel, push the switch forward and the wheel will move away from you. Pull the switch rearward and the wheel will move toward you.
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Turn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the multifunction lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically. An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.
Turn Signal on Chime Headlamp Doors A chime will remind you if you leave the turn signal on for more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km) of driving. If you need to leave the turn signal on for more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km), turn off the signal and then turn it back on.
You can open the doors manually using the knob next to the headlamp assembly. Turn the knob counterclockwise until the doors are open. Turn the knob clockwise to close the doors manually. Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, push the turn signal lever all the way forward. When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel cluster also will be on. To change the headlamps from high to low, pull the lever rearward.
Windshield Wipers You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Push the lever up to INT (intermittent), then turn the band, located on the lever, to adjust the delay time. Turn the band up for a shorter delay or down for a longer delay. The wiper speed can only be adjusted when the lever is in the INT position, not in HI or LO. For steady wiping at low speed, move the lever up to the LO position.
Windshield Washer Cruise Control The lever on the right side of the steering column also controls the windshield washer. There is a pushbutton at the end of the lever. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the button and hold it. The washer will spray until you release the button. The wipers will continue to clear the window for about six seconds after the button is released and then stop or return to your preset speed.
When using cruise control, the accelerator pedal will return to its fully-released position and will not move while cruise control is engaged. The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display the cruise set speed in a digital number. For example, the DIC will say CRUISE SET 60 mph (97 km/h). The cruise set speed and the speedometer indicated speed may not always be exactly the same. When you apply the brakes or push the clutch pedal, the cruise control disengages. The DIC will show CRUISE DISENGAGED.
Setting Cruise Control CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control. 1. Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Push the SET button at the end of the lever and release it. The cruise set speed will be displayed by the Driver Information Center (DIC). 4.
D Move the cruise switch to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, then release the switch. (To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A briefly, then release it. Each time you do this, the vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.) The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display the cruise set speed.
Exterior Lamps Fog Lamps (If Equipped) Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully functional daytime running lights are required on all vehicles first sold in Canada.
Twilight SentinelR Automatic Lamp Control (Optional, Standard in Canada) Twilight Sentinel can turn your lamps on and off for you. A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the Twilight Sentinel work, so be sure it isn’t covered. You can customize your vehicle to turn Twilight Sentinel on or off (except for vehicles first sold in Canada). See “Driver Information Center (DIC)” in the Index to turn this feature on or off.
Parade Mode Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness Control This knob controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights when the headlamps or parking lamps are on. The instrument panel brightness knob has an added feature called parade mode to assist you in seeing certain instrument panel controls if your headlamps are on in the daylight. Turn the knob counterclockwise to dim the instrument panel lights or clockwise to brighten the lights.
Reading Lamps Inadvertent Load Control Your vehicle has a feature to help prevent you from draining the battery in case the underhood lamp, vanity mirror lamps, cargo lamps, reading lamps, console or glove box lamps are accidentally left on. If you leave any of these lamps on, they will automatically time out after about 15 minutes. To reset it, all of the above lamps must be turned off or the ignition key must be in ON.
Electrochromic Day/Night Inside Rearview Mirror with Map Lamps (Option) Your vehicle may have an automatic electrochromic day/night rearview mirror with map lamps. This mirror automatically changes to reduce glare from headlamps behind you. A time delay feature prevents rapid changing from the day to night positions while driving under lights and through traffic. The automatic dimming feature is turned on or off by pressing the IO button located on the lower part of the mirror.
Power/Heated Remote Control Mirrors Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat. 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. The electric mirror control is on the driver’s door.
Storage Compartments Center Console Storage Glove Box To open the glove box, lift up on the lever. Use your door key to lock or unlock it. The glove box has a light inside. Instrument Panel Cupholder The cupholder is located on the center console in front of the ashtray. To open it, place your thumb on the left side of the lid and push down. Raise the right side with your index finger.
Security Shade (Option) Rear Storage Compartments The security shade can provide hidden storage in the rear area of the vehicle. The shade is also helpful in blocking the glare from the removeable roof when it is stored in the rear compartment. There are three rear storage compartments in the floor of the rear hatch/trunk area on the passenger’s and driver’s side of the vehicle. Using the Security Shade 1.
NOTICE: If your vehicle is equipped with the optional trunk-mounted CD changer, it is stored in the center rear storage compartment. To help avoid damage to the compact disc player, do not store items such as liquids or sharp objects that could damage, puncture or cut the trunk-mounted CD changer or wiring. To access a storage compartment, pull up on the latch to release the lid. Remove the storage compartment lid.
Convenience Net (Option) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You will see it on the back wall of the rear area of the vehicle. Put small loads, like grocery bags, in the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops. The convenience net is not for larger, heavier loads. You can unhook the net and place it in one of the rear storage compartments when you are not using it. On coupe models only, a vinyl storage bag has also been provided.
Accessory Power Outlet The accessory power outlet is located inside the center console storage compartment, on the forward left side. Remove the tethered cap to use the outlet. The outlet can be used to connect electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone or CB radio. Be sure to follow the installation instructions included with the equipment. Leave the cap on when the accessory power outlet is not in use.
Floor Mats (Option) Roof Panel (If Equipped) Your vehicle’s floor mats are specially designed to remain in position under your feet and out of reach of the accelerator pedal. The driver’s side floor mat is held in place by two locator hooks and the passenger’s side is held in place by one. Removing the Roof Panel Be sure that the driver’s side floor mat is properly placed on the floor so that it does not block the movement of the accelerator pedal.
NOTICE: To avoid damage to the roof panel, paint and weatherstripping, do not drop or rest it on its edges. Place the roof panel in the egg-shaped stowage receivers after removing it from the vehicle. 1. Park on a level surface, set the parking brake firmly and shift an automatic transmission into PARK (P). Shift a manual transmission into REVERSE (R). 2. Turn the ignition key to OFF. Lower both sun visors and turn them toward the door glass. 3.
There are two latches on the front of the roof panel near each door (A), and one rear latch (B). 2-64 6. To unlock the front of the roof panel, pull down each of the front handles. Grasp the handles with your fingers and pull each toward you. Complete a 180_ turn toward the center of the vehicle. Then push up on each of the handles.
7. To unlock the rear of the roof panel, press the latch release button with your thumb and pull down the latch lever with your fingers. 8. After releasing the latches, return the sun visors to the forward position. 9. Stand on one side of the vehicle and, if necessary, have your helper stand on the other side. Together, carefully lift the front edge of the panel up and forward, and out of the vehicle opening. 10.
Storing the Roof Panel CAUTION: If the roof panel is not stored properly, it could be thrown about the vehicle in a crash or sudden maneuver. People in the vehicle could be injured. Whenever you store the roof panel in the vehicle, always be sure that it is stored securely in the rear area using the storage pins. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the roof panel, paint and weatherstripping, do not drop or rest it on its edges.
3. There are two spring-loaded storage pins on the rear wall of the storage compartment (A). These storage pins go into the slots on each side of the roof panel (B). 4. Gently lower the roof panel onto the carpeted ledge. Then, pull each release rearward and upward to place the storage pins into the holes of the roof panel. 5. Gently lift and lower the roof panel to be sure it is locked into place.
Installing the Roof Panel CAUTION: An improperly attached roof panel may fall into or fly off the vehicle. You or others could be injured. After installing the roof panel, always check that it is firmly attached by pushing up on the underside of the panel. Check now and then to be sure the roof panel is firmly in place. NOTICE: To avoid damage to the roof panel, paint and weatherstripping, do not drop or rest it on its edges. 2-68 1.
6. Turn the front handles toward the side doors to the closed position. 7. Hook the rear latch by pushing the lever up to the locked position. 8. Grasp and tug the roof panel up and down and side-to-side to make sure the roof panel is securely installed. Convertible Top (Option) The following procedures explain the proper operation of the convertible top. 5. Position the rear edge of the roof panel to the weatherstrip on the back of the roof opening (A).
When lowering and raising the convertible top, you will use the following: Lowering the Convertible Top NOTICE: Don’t leave the convertible out with the top down for any long periods of time. The sun and rain can damage the seat material and other things inside the vehicle. 1. Set the parking brake firmly. Shift an automatic transmission into PARK (P). Shift a manual transmission into REVERSE (R). 2. Turn the ignition key to OFF. Lower both sun visors and turn them toward the door glass. A.
3. Unlock the front of the convertible top by lowering the latch handles and turning them inward. Push the latch handles back to the up position. 4. Lift upward on the front edge (A) of the convertible top off of the windshield frame. Then lift upward on the rear edge (B) of the convertible top to be vertical off the storage compartment lid (C). The front edge (A) and rear edge (B) should be straight up and down.
If the vehicle has lost battery power, you can still open the storage compartment lid (C) using the manual release cable. 5. Tilt the driver’s seatback forward and press the storage compartment release button located on the underside of the storage compartment lid (C) behind the driver’s seat. Then raise the storage compartment lid (C). While attempting to raise the lid, if the lid does not release and you hear three chimes, check to make sure the trunk lid is closed.
NOTICE: Be sure that the rear edge (B) of the convertible top is in the full-down position before lowering the top into the storage compartment or damage to the top may occur. 7. Then move the top rearward to its fully-stored position. 8. After the top is stored, apply one even push on the center of the front edge (A) of the convertible top to assure that the top is fully retracted. 9. Close the storage compartment lid (C) by closing with a swift, firm motion. 6.
Raising the Convertible Top 1. Park on a level surface, set the parking brake firmly and shift an automatic transmission into PARK (P). Shift a manual transmission into REVERSE (R). Lower both windows and sun visors and turn the ignition key to OFF. 3. Pull the top up by firmly gripping the front edge (A) of the convertible top with your hand and applying a brisk, firm upward and forward motion to get the top in the full-up position. 2.
5. Close the storage compartment lid (C) by closing with a swift, firm motion. 6. Lower the rear edge (B) of the convertible top by first slightly pushing the front edge (A) of the convertible top forward. 7. Push the front edge (A) of the convertible top down from the outside of the vehicle, or pull the front edge (A) of the convertible top down from the center pull-down handle located in the inside of the vehicle. 8. Turn the latches outward to secure the top in the up position. 4.
The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System 2-76
The main components of your instrument panel are the following: A. Instrument Panel Brightness Control O. Shift Lever (Automatic Shown) B. Head-Up Display Controls (Option) C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever P. Traction Control System (TCS) Switch/Active Handling Switch D. Driver Information Center (DIC) (Located in the Instrument Cluster) Q. Accessory Power Outlet (Located in the Center Console) E. Instrument Panel Cluster R. Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD) (Option) F.
Instrument Panel Cluster Your instrument panel cluster and Driver Information Center (DIC) are designed to let you know at a glance how the vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel you have left and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically. The instrument panel cluster indicator warning lights, gages and DIC messages are explained on the following pages.
Speedometer and Odometer Tachometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in either miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h). The tachometer displays the engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (rpm). There is only one scale for mph and km/h. When you press the E/M (English/metric) button on the Driver Information Center (DIC), the cluster will calculate the proper speed and move the needle to the correct position.
Warning Lights, Gages and Messages This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions.
Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows a deployed air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag modules, the wiring and the diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” in the Index. This light will come on when you start your vehicle, and it will flash for a few seconds.
Air Bag Off Light When you turn the passenger’s air bag off, this light will come on and stay on to remind you that the air bag has been turned off. This light will go off when you turn the air bag back on again. See “Air Bag Off Switch” in the Index for more on this, including important safety information. 2-82 CAUTION: If the passenger’s air bag is turned off for a person who isn’t in a risk group identified by the national government, that person won’t have the extra protection of an air bag.
Voltmeter CAUTION: If the air bag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the air bag, it means that something may be wrong with the air bag system. The passenger’s air bag could inflate even though the switch is off. If this ever happens, don’t let anyone whom the national government has identified as a member of a passenger air bag risk group sit in the passenger’s position (for example, don’t secure a rear-facing child restraint in your vehicle) until you have your vehicle serviced.
Brake System Warning Light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. This light should come on when you turn the ignition key to START. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti-lock brake system, the light will come on when your engine is started and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal. If the light stays on, turn the ignition to OFF. Or, if the light comes on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your vehicle needs service.
Active Handling System Light The Active Handling System light will come on briefly as you start the engine. If the light does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. The light will also come on while the system warms up and the ACT HNDLING WARMING UP message will be displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC).
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. United States Canada This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the shaded area, your engine is too hot. This means that your engine coolant has overheated.
NOTICE: If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty. This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Engine Oil Pressure Gage 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. Here are some things you need to know in order to help your vehicle pass an inspection: Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the CHECK ENGINE light is on or not working properly.
The engine oil pressure can also be displayed using the GAGES button on the Driver Information Center (DIC). See “Driver Information Center” in the Index. CAUTION: 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.
D At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the Fuel Gage gage reads F (full). Your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left when the ignition is on. When the needle approaches the red zone, RESERVE FUEL will appear on the Driver Information Center (DIC) display. When the needle approaches the “E,” LOW FUEL will appear on the display. At this time, you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon. Press RESET to acknowledge a DIC message(s).
Driver Information Center (DIC) The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display information about how your vehicle is functioning, as well as warning messages if a system problem is detected. The DIC display area is located in the instrument panel cluster below the speedometer and tachometer, directly above the steering column. The following buttons are located on the DIC control panel which is located to the right of the instrument panel cluster.
DIC Controls and Displays Turn on the system by turning the ignition to ON. When you turn on the ignition, the DIC will be in the mode last displayed when the engine was turned off. Each DIC button allows you to scroll through a menu. A blank page ends each menu. If a problem is detected, a diagnostic message will appear on the display. Press RESET to acknowledge any current warning or service messages.
Press FUEL again to display instantaneous fuel economy, such as: D INST. 20.1 MPG or D INST. 5.3 L/100 km 2 GAGES The GAGES button allows you to scroll through the functions listed below when you press it. Press FUEL again to display the range, such as: D RANGE 20 MI or D RANGE 32 km The range calculates the remaining distance you can drive without refueling. It’s based on fuel economy and the fuel remaining in the tank. If the range is lower than 30 miles (48 km), the display will read RANGE LOW.
Press the GAGE button again to display the oil temperature, such as: Press the GAGE button again to display the tire pressure for the front tires, such as: D OIL TEMP 234 _F or D OIL TEMP 112 _C D FRONT L34 R33 PSI or D FRONT L234 R228 kPa Press the GAGE button again to display the coolant temperature, such as: Press the GAGE button again to display the tire pressure for the rear tires, such as: D COOLANT TEMP 123 _F or D COOLANT TEMP 51 _C D REAR L34 R33 PSI or D REAR L234 R228 kPa Press the GAGE b
3 TRIP Odometer The TRIP button allows you to scroll through the functions listed below when you press it. The odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven in either miles or kilometers. Press the TRIP button to display odometer readings such as: D ODOMETER 12345 MI or D ODOMETER 20008 km Without the keys in the ignition, you can also display the odometer by turning on the parking lamps. Trip Odometers There are two trip odometers. Press the TRIP button and TRIP A will be displayed.
Miles Since Last Ignition Feature Average Speed You can also display number of miles (kilometers) driven since you last started the vehicle if you press and hold the RESET button for two seconds, then release. The miles (or kilometers) since the last ignition cycle will be set into the trip odometer. Press the TRIP button until the average speed is displayed, such as: Elapsed Time Press reset in this mode to start calculating the average speed. Press and hold RESET to clear.
Remember, you must reset the OIL LIFE yourself after each oil change. It will not reset itself. Also, be careful not to reset the OIL LIFE accidentally at any time other than when the oil has just been changed. It can’t be reset accurately until the next oil change. To reset the system, see “How to Reset the Change Oil Soon Message” in the Index. Also, see “Engine Oil, When to Change” and “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index.
If you choose TWILIGHT - ON, press the OPTIONS button again to display DELAY TIME 1 2 in the DIC. Use the OPTIONS button to switch between delay time 1 and 2. You can increase the delay time by pressing button 1 (1 FUEL) or decrease the time by pressing button 2 (2 GAGES). Each bar is equal to 12 seconds.
Approach Lights Press the OPTIONS button until APPROACH LIGHTS appears on the display, then use the RESET button to page through the following choices: D APPROACH LIGHTS ON D APPROACH LIGHTS OFF If you choose APPROACH LIGHTS ON, the fog lamps, front turn signal, rear back-up and courtesy lamps will come on for 30 seconds when you press UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter. This will occur only when it is dark outside. APPROACH LIGHTS OFF turns off this option.
Easy Entry The easy entry feature will only be available if the vehicle is equipped with the memory option.
DIC Warnings and Messages The following messages and warnings may appear in the DIC display. The DIC display area is located in the instrument panel cluster below the speedometer and tachometer, directly above the steering column. You may receive more than one message at a time. Messages will appear one behind the other. To acknowledge a message and remove it from the display, press RESET. You may scroll through the messages that may have been sent at the same time.
COMPETITIVE DRIVING: When the Competitive Driving mode is selected, this message will be displayed in the DIC. The instrument panel cluster light will not be on when the Competitive Driving mode is selected. The Traction Control System will not be operating while in the Competitive Driving mode. You should adjust your driving accordingly. SERVICE ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System): If the SERVICE ABS message is displayed when you are driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off.
LOW OIL PRESSURE: You will hear four chimes and the CHECK GAGES telltale will come on when this message is displayed. To acknowledge the warning, press the RESET button. After you press the RESET button, a message will be displayed and you will hear a chime every minute until the vehicle is serviced. If you do not press RESET, the message will remain on the digital display until the vehicle is serviced.
SERVICE VEHICLE SOON: If this message appears on the DIC, there may be an electrical or another system problem with your vehicle. Have your vehicle checked by your dealer if this message keeps appearing. TRACTION SYSTEM - ON: This message is displayed when you decide to turn on the Traction Control System by pressing the switch on the console. This message will shut off automatically on its own.
SERVICE RIDE CONTROL: This message is used to indicate to the driver that the Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD) system has detected a malfunction and that the system must be serviced. The SERVICE RIDE CONTROL message will always come on when a failure is detected by the Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD) system. If a fault is present in the SRTD which causes the shocks to be in their full soft condition, the SERVICE RIDE CONTROL, SHOCKS INOPERATIVE and MAXIMUM 80 MPH (129 km/h) will display together.
REDUCE ENGINE RPM: You will hear four chimes when this message is displayed. To acknowledge the warning, press the RESET button. After you press the RESET button, a message will be displayed and you will hear a chime every minute until this condition changes. If you do not press RESET, the message will remain on the digital display until the condition changes. If the engine oil temperature exceeds 320_F (160_C), this message is displayed. You should check the engine coolant temperature and engine oil level.
LOW TIRE PRESSURE: (Except Z06) You will hear two chimes when this message is displayed. To acknowledge the warning, press RESET. After you press RESET, a message will appear every 10 minutes until this condition changes. This message indicates that the pressure in one of your tires is less than 25 psi (172 kPa). Next to the LOW TIRE PRESSURE message, you can see either LF (left front), LR (left rear), RF (right front) or RR (right rear) to indicate to you which tire is low on pressure.
FLAT TIRE: (Except Z06) You will hear two chimes when this message is displayed followed by the message MAX SPEED 55 MPH (90 km/h). If this message appears, do not drive your vehicle above these limits. The next message to appear is REDUCED HANDLING. Adjust your driving accordingly. To acknowledge these warnings, press RESET. After you press RESET, a message will reappear every 10 minutes until this condition changes.
HIGH TIRE PRESSURE - (LF, LR, RF, RR) (Except Z06): You will hear two chimes when this message is displayed. To acknowledge the warning, press RESET. After you press RESET, a message will reappear every 10 minutes until this condition changes. This message indicates that the pressure in one of your tires is higher than 42 psi (290 kPa).
Other Messages Here are more messages that you can receive on your Driver Information Center (DIC). To acknowledge a message and read another message that may have come on at the same time, press the RESET button. D BRAKE BEFORE SHIFT (Automatic Transmissions Only) D CHANGE OIL NOW (See “GM Oil Life Systemt” in the Index.) D CHANGE OIL SOON (See “GM Oil Life Systemt” in the Index.) D CRUISE DISENGAGED (See “Cruise Control” in the Index.
Head-Up Display (Option) CAUTION: If the HUD image is too bright, or too high in your field of view, it may take you more time to see things you need to see when it’s dark outside. Be sure to keep the HUD image dim and placed low in your field of view. If your vehicle is equipped with the Head-Up Display (HUD), you can see some of the driver information that appears on your instrument panel cluster.
There are five HUD selections that you can choose to view in the HUD display. By pressing and holding the PAGE button, you can scroll through these pages in the following order: D D D D D Speed Only Speed and Gage Speed, Tachometer and Gage Speed and Tachometer Tachometer Only When you have chosen the desired HUD display, release the PAGE button. Gages can be scrolled through by tapping the PAGE button (only when a gage is displayed).
To adjust the HUD so you can see it properly: 1. Start your engine and slide the HUD dimmer control all the way up. The brightness of the HUD image is determined by the light conditions in the direction your vehicle is facing and where you have the HUD dimmer control set. If you are facing a dark object or a heavily shaded area, your HUD may anticipate that you are entering a dark area and may begin to dim. It is possible for sunlight to enter the HUD causing all of the graphics to light up.
If the sun comes out or it becomes cloudy, you may need to adjust the HUD brightness again using the dimmer control. Polarized sunglasses could make the HUD image harder to see. To change from English to metric units, push the E/M button located to the right of the steering wheel. Clean the inside of the windshield as needed to remove any dirt or film that reduces the sharpness or clarity of the HUD image. To clean the HUD, spray household glass cleaner on a soft, clean cloth.
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 Temperature Knob This section tells you how to make your air system work for you. The center knob controls the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn it counterclockwise (toward the blue area) for cooler air. Turn it clockwise (toward the red area) for warmer air. With these systems, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system described later in this section.
DEFOG: This setting divides the air between the windshield and lower outlets with a small amount of air directed toward the side window vents. This is useful when fog appears on the windshield or side glass due to rain or snowy conditions. DEFROST: Use this setting to quickly remove fog or frost from the windshield. This setting directs most of the airflow to the windshield with a small amount of air directed toward the lower and side window outlets.
Automatic Electronic Dual Climate Control System (Option) Your vehicle may be equipped with an Automatic Electronic Dual Climate Control System. This system can automatically adjust and control temperature output, fan speed, air delivery mode, air conditioning operation and air intake. You can use the AUTO (automatic) setting or override the automatic operation with manual control settings. The set temperature will be remembered each time you turn the ignition off and restart in the same settings.
When adjusting the temperature, start with a driver-set temperature of 73_F (23_C) until you determine your comfort zone. If you choose 60_F (16_C), the system will remain at maximum cooling and will not automatically adjust fan speed or air delivery. If you choose 90_F (32_C), the system will remain at maximum heating and will not automatically adjust fan speed or air delivery. Choosing either maximum setting will not cause the system to heat or cool any faster.
As the interior of the vehicle warms up to your comfort set temperature, the fan speed will decrease and the temperature output may become cooler. If the interior temperature continues to warm up due to heating from the sun or outside temperature increases, the system may switch to other air delivery modes (typically DEFOG or BI-LEVEL).
FAN SPEED: Press the button with the fan symbol on it to manually lock in the current fan speed and to stop the automatic fan speed control. Pressing the arrows will delete AUTO from the digital display. The fan graphics with the fan speed bars will be shown. To increase the fan speed so that more air flows into the vehicle, press the UP arrow on the fan switch. To decrease the fan speed and airflow, press the DOWN arrow. The AUTO button must be pressed to return to the automatic fan control.
A/C: This button turns the air conditioning compressor off or on under most conditions. The light on the A/C button will come on when the compressor is operating in either the automatic or manual mode. The air conditioning does not operate at temperatures below approximately 35_F to 40_F (2_C to 4_C). The light on the A/C button will flash if pressed when air conditioning is not available. The air conditioning cools and dehumidifies the air coming into the vehicle.
Operating the system in the recirculation mode may cause fogging of the vehicle’s windows when the weather is cold and damp. To clear the fog, switch the system to either the DEFOG or DEFROST mode and increase the fan speed. To avoid re-fogging of the windows, operate the system in the OUTSIDE AIR mode. FRONT: Press the FRONT defrost button to quickly remove fog or frost from the windshield.
Outside Air Temperature Sensor This sensor is located in the air intake under the front bumper of the vehicle. Information from this sensor is used for the outside air temperature readings shown on the digital display for the automatic climate control system. If the outside temperature goes up, the displayed temperature will not change until: D The vehicle’s speed is above 16 mph (26 km/h) for one and a half minutes. D The vehicle’s speed is above 45 mph (72 km/h) for one minute.
Heating Defogging and Defrosting The heater works best if you keep the windows closed. Maximum heating will occur when airflow direction is in the lower mode and the temperature knob (on a manual climate control system) is all the way in the red area. These settings will be selected by the automatic electronic dual climate control system if operating in AUTO when maximum heating is required.
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Do not attach anything like a temporary vehicle license or a decal across the defogger grid on the rear window. NOTICE: Don’t use a razor blade or something sharp on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage the warming grid, and repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Ventilation System Your vehicle’s flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving.
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control SCV: Your system has a feature called Speed-Compensated Volume (SCV). With SCV, your audio system adjusts automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive. Set the volume at the desired level. Turn the control ring behind the upper knob clockwise to adjust the SCV. Then, as you drive, SCV automatically increases the volume, as necessary, to overcome noise at any particular speed.
SCAN: Press one of the SEEK arrows for two seconds, and SCAN will appear in the display. Use SCAN to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press SEEK again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning. 2. Press AM FM to select the band. P.SCAN: Press this button to listen to each of your favorite stations stored on your pushbuttons for a few seconds.
TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase treble and counterclockwise to decrease treble. When you use this control, the radio’s AUTO TONE setting will switch to manual and the AUTO TONE display will go blank. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you’re not using them.
The player is able to detect a tight or broken tape, and will eject the tape. The radio will go back to playing the last station selected. The player automatically senses the cassette for metal or CrO2 and sets the pre-emphasis. Anytime a tape is inserted, the top side is selected to play first. PREV (1): Press this button or the left SEEK arrow to go to the previous selection on the tape if the current selection has been playing for less than eight seconds.
AM FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. TAPE AUX: Press this button to change to the tape function when the radio is on. The tape symbol with an arrow will appear on the display when the tape is active. If your system is equipped with a remote playback device, pressing this button a second time will allow the remote device to play.
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control (Option) Included with the AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control, are six Bose amplified speakers. See your dealer for details. RECALL: Press this button to recall the station being played. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. SCV: Your system has a feature called Speed-Compensated Volume (SCV).
SCAN: Press one of the SEEK arrows for two seconds, and SCAN will appear on the display. Use SCAN to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press SEEK again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning. 2. Press AM FM to select the band. P.SCAN: Press this button to listen to each of your favorite stations stored on your pushbuttons for a few seconds.
TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob clockwise to increase treble and counterclockwise to decrease treble. When you use this control, the radio’s AUTO TONE setting will switch to manual and the AUTO TONE display will go blank. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you’re not using them.
Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The disc should begin playing. The display will show CD and the CD symbol. If you want to insert a compact disc with the ignition off, first press RECALL or EJECT. If you’re driving on a very rough road or if it’s very hot, the disc may not play and ERR (error) may appear on the display. Press RECALL to take ERR off the display.
AM FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is in the player. The letters CD will go off the display. Trunk-Mounted CD Changer (Option) Your vehicle may be equipped with a trunk-mounted CD AUX: Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on. A CD icon will appear on the display when the disc is in the player, whether it is active or not. If your system is equipped with a remote playback device, pressing this button a second time will allow the remote device to play.
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.
Whenever a CD magazine with discs is loaded in the changer, the CD symbol will appear on the radio display. If the CD changer is checking the magazine for CDs, the CD symbol will flash on the display until the changer is ready to play. When a CD begins playing, a disc and track number will be displayed. The disc numbers are listed on the front of the magazine.
PROG (2): Press this button to select a disc. The disc number and track number will be displayed. NEXT (3): Press this button or the SEEK right arrow to go to the next track. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. The sound will mute while seeking. REV (4): Press and hold this button to reverse quickly through a track selection. Release it to resume playing. (5): This button has no function when playing a compact disc.
RDM (2): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RANDOM will appear on the display. Press RDM again to turn off random play. To eject the disc holder in the trunk-mounted CD changer, slide the CD changer door all the way open and the disc holder will automatically eject. NEXT (3): Press this button or the SEEK right arrow to go to the next track. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc.
Theft-Deterrent Feature THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. 1. Write down any three or four-digit number from 000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate from the vehicle. 2. Turn the ignition to ACC or ON. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature.
Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display. 2. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 3. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. 4. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code. 5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down.
Understanding Radio Reception To help avoid hearing loss or damage: AM D Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. D Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.
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.
After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust.
Power Antenna Mast Care (Convertible) 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. 2. Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or equivalent solvent. 3. Wipe the cloth over the mast sections, removing any dirt. 4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. 5. Make the antenna go up and down by turning the radio or ignition off and on. 6. Repeat if necessary.
Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.
Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes. Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following distance. It’s the best defensive driving maneuver, in both city and rural driving.
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: D D D D Judgment Muscular Coordination Vision Attentiveness. Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving.
Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent. The BAC will be over 0.
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision. There’s something else about drinking and driving that many people don’t know.
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions. This can help you steer around the obstacle while braking hard. Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down.
Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let anti-lock work for you.
The SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM message and the TCS warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem with your TCS system. See “Service Traction System Message” in the Index. When this light and the SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM message are on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. 4-10 The TCS system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on.
Active Handling System The Active Handling System is a computer controlled system that helps the driver maintain directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. This is accomplished by selectively applying any one of the vehicle’s brakes. When you first start your vehicle and begin to drive away (6 mph (10 km/h)), the message ACT HNDLG WARMING UP may be displayed in the DIC, the instrument cluster light will be on, and a chime will sound. This is normal.
Competitive Driving Mode Magnetic Speed Variable Assist Steering The driver can select the optional handling mode by pressing the ACTIVE HANDLING button on the console for more than five seconds. Competitive Driving mode allows the driver to have full control of the rear wheels while the Active Handling System helps steer the vehicle by selective brake application. The instrument cluster light will not be on. The Traction Control System will not be operating. Adjust your driving accordingly.
Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems --steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. Refer to “Traction Control System” in the Index. What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down.
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 your TCS system is off, then an acceleration skid is also best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal. Driving at Night If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs. Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road.
Here are some tips on night driving. D Drive defensively. D Don’t drink and drive. D Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. 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.
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.
Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if your tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple” the water’s surface, there could be hydroplaning. 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 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. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.
The exit speed is usually posted. Here are some things you can check before a trip: Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
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. CAUTION: D Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash.
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 vehicle. 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. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful. 4-30 CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle.
Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for a while. Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat.
Loading Your Vehicle Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. The Tire-Loading Information label found on the rear edge of the driver’s door tells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation. It also gives you important information about the number of people that can be in your vehicle and the total weight that you can carry. This weight is called Vehicle Capacity Weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo and all non-factory-installed options.
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. NOTICE: Your warranty does not cover parts or components that fail because of overloading.
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 this button to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. To turn off the flashers, push the button again. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work. Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off.
Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please use the following steps to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: D They contain acid that can burn you. D They contain gas that can explode or ignite. D They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so that the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure.
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. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the ACDelcoR battery installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present.
7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 5-6 8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) terminal. Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step.
11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service. 9. 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. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (46 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less.
To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode 1. Disconnect the black negative (-) cable from the heavy, unpainted metal engine part on the vehicle that had the dead battery. Should an overheated engine condition exist and the messages COOLANT OVER TEMP and REDUCED ENGINE POWER are displayed, along with the Check Engine light, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage.
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. Electric Engine Cooling Fans B.
CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle. When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark.
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.
CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the coolant surge tank pressure cap -- even a little -- they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and coolant surge tank pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.
CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, 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.
1. You can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise (left) about one-quarter turn and then stop. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left. 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove it. 5-16 3.
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 fan(s). 5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the pressure cap is hand-tight. 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 the FULL COLD mark on the coolant surge tank.
If a Tire Goes Flat Your Corvette has no spare tire, no tire changing equipment and no place to store a tire. It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. See “Tires” in the Index. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. If your vehicle has Extended Mobility Tires (EMT), you won’t need to stop on the side of the road to change a flat tire. EMT tires can operate effectively with no air pressure.
Z06 models do not have Extended Mobility Tires. If a Z06 model tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place and stopping. Then do this: 1. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. 2. Set the parking brake firmly. 3. Put the shift lever (manual transmission) in REVERSE (R). 4. Turn off the engine. sealant. The tire pressure is checked after driving for a maximum of 10 minutes to see if the slow leak has been stopped.
Tire Inflator Kit (Z06 Models Only) Every Z06 model with P295/35ZR18 and P265/40ZR17 tires, when new, was equipped with a Tire Inflator Kit. The repair kit contains a detailed instruction card that outlines step by step the temporary repair procedure. Be sure to read and follow all the Tire Inflator Kit instructions. The kit also includes: A. B. C. D. Air Compressor Tire Sealant Sealant Filling Hose Air Compressor Accessory Plug E. Air Compressor Inflator Hose 5-20 F. Air Pressure Gage G.
Tire Sealant Air Compressor The kit contains a liquid sealant that when injected into a flat tire, may temporarily repair nail holes or cuts in the tread area of the tire. The tire sealant cannot repair tire damage caused while driving on a flat tire or a tire that has had a “blow out” or a tire that has punctures in the sidewall areas. The tire sealant solution is a one-time use application for one tire only.
NOTICE: The car engine must be running to avoid draining the battery while running the air compressor. Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Parking Your Vehicle, Manual Transmission” in the Index. CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle with the engine running, if the shift lever is not in NEUTRAL (N) with the parking brake firmly set (manual transmission). Your vehicle can roll or move suddenly even when on fairly level ground.
NOTICE: Do not allow the air compressor to operate continuously for more than 6 minutes to help prevent damage from overheating. NOTICE: If 26 psi (179 kPa) tire pressure cannot be reached after 6 minutes, the vehicle should not be driven further. Damage to the tire is severe and the sealant will not be effective. Remove the air compressor plug from the accessory power outlet and unscrew the inflating hose from the tire valve. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index.
Tire Inflator Kit Storage The Tire Inflator Kit is stored in the rear hatch/trunk area of your vehicle. 1. Remove the elastic cord (A) from around the retaining hook (B) and slide the kit out from under the elastic band (C) that is secured to the floor of the hatch/trunk area. 2. Unwrap the elastic cord (A) from around the handle of the Tire Inflator Kit. Open the Tire Inflator Kit case by lifting up the two tabs located on either side of the kit handle. To Stow the Tire Inflator Kit: CAUTION: A.
A. Tire Inflator Kit A. Tire Inflator Kit B. Removable Elastic Cord B. Removable Elastic Cord 1. Loop the elastic cord (B) around the handle of the Tire Inflator Kit (A). C. Rear Retaining Hook D. Elastic Band 2. Insert the tire inflator kit under the elastic band (D) that is secured to the floor of the hatch/trunk area of your vehicle. 3. Wrap elastic cord (B) around the retaining hook (C).
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 transmission back and forth, you can destroy your transmission.
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 premium is at least 91 (at least 87 for regular). 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 filler door release button is located inside of the center console storage compartment. The fuel filler door is located on the driver’s side of the vehicle. The fuel cap is attached by a tether for your convenience.
If your fuel filler door release won’t operate, there is a manual release tab. The tab is located against the upper trim on the driver’s side in the rear compartment. Pull the tab to manually release the fuel filler door. While refueling, rest the tether across the tab on the fuel filler door to prevent damage to your vehicle’s finish. To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.
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 NOTICE: In order to avoid possible contact of the hood to the headlamp doors, either take care in raising the hood with the headlamps up, or turn off the headlamps prior to opening the hood. To open the hood, first pull the handle located inside the vehicle below the instrument panel on the driver’s side. Then go to the side of the vehicle and pull up on the rear edge of the hood, near the windshield. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly.
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood, you’ll see the following: A. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap B. Battery C. Engine Oil Dipstick D. E. F. G. Engine Oil Fill Cap Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Brake Fluid Reservoir H. Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Reservoir (If Equipped) I.
Engine Oil If the LOW OIL LEVEL message on the Driver Information Center comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see “Driver Information Center” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. Checking Engine Oil The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow ring located near the coolant surge tank. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location.
Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or a cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down. 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 mark, you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Look for two things: D GM4718M Your vehicle’s engine requires a special oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M. Oils meeting this standard may be identified as synthetic. However, not all synthetic oils will meet this GM standard. You should look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM4718M. NOTICE: If you use oils that don’t have the GM4718M Standard designation, you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty.
D SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W-30 if it’s going to be 0_F (-18_C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API).
When to Change Engine Oil How to Reset the Change Oil Soon Message Your vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage, but on engine revolutions and engine operating temperature. When the computer has calculated that the oil needs changing, the GM Oil Life System will indicate that a change is necessary.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/filter off. NOTICE: See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Replacement To remove the engine air cleaner/filter: 2. Pull the assembly out. 3. Replace the filter. See “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in the Index. 1. Pull up on the clips on each side to release the assembly. 4. Push the assembly back into place. 5. Fasten the clips.
How to Check Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (80 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one of these conditions: It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level. A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your dealer service department and have it repaired as soon as possible. D In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90_F (32_C) or higher. D In hilly or mountainous terrain.
How to Check Then, follow these steps: Because this operation can be difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Chevrolet dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading. NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot exhaust system parts, starting a fire.
How to Add Fluid When to Check and What to Use Here’s how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Add fluid at the filler plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the filler plug hole. 3. Install the filler plug. Be sure the plug is fully seated. 4. Tighten the plug to 20 lb-ft (27 N·m).
How to Check and Add Fluid Rear Axle When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” in the Index. How to Check Lubricant Fluid should be added if the fluid level is below the step on the inside of the reservoir. There are additional instructions on the reservoir cap. Put the rubber seal and cap back on. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location.
What to Use To add lubricant when the level is low, use SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Lubricant (GM Part No. 12378261) or equivalent meeting GM Specification 9986115. To completely refill after draining, add 4 ounces (118 ml) of Limited-Slip Differential Lubricant Additive (GM Part No. 1052358) or equivalent. Then fill to the bottom of the filler plug hole with the Synthetic Gear Lubricant.
What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOLR coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture.
Checking Coolant CAUTION: Turning the surge tank pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. Never turn the surge tank pressure cap -- even a little -- when the engine and radiator are hot. The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the FULL COLD mark. The FULL COLD mark is on the front of the coolant surge tank. Don’t overfill the surge 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. Power Steering Fluid 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.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid What to Use 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. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. To determine what kind of fluid to use, see “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid.
Adding Washer Fluid NOTICE: D When using concentrated washer fluid, D D See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. 6-28 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.
Brakes Brake 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. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings.
Checking Brake Fluid You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. Just look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be above the MIN mark on the reservoir. If it isn’t, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak. After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make sure the level is between the MIN and MAX marks. CAUTION: With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash.
Brake Wear Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly). CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.
Brake Adjustment Battery As you make brake stops, your disc brakes automatically adjust for wear. Your new vehicle comes with a maintenance free ACDelcoR battery. When it’s time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelco battery. For battery replacement, see your dealer or the service manual. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.
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 1. The headlamp doors need to be halfway open. Turn the headlamps on, then quickly back to the parking lamps setting. You may have to do this a few times to get the half-open position. 2. Remove the screws using a screwdriver on each side of the headlamp bezel. 3. Open the hood. You can also open the headlamp doors manually by turning the adjuster counterclockwise. 6-34 4. To remove the bezel, pull the sides slightly outward and tilt the bezel forward.
Rear Turn Signal and Taillamps 5. Reach behind the lamp and turn the bulb counterclockwise to remove it. Don’t touch the halogen bulbs. The inner bulb is the high beam and the outer bulb is the low beam. B. Inboard Taillamp 6. Disconnect the desired bulb from the wiring harness. C. Outboard Taillamp A. Back-up Lamp 7. Reverse the steps listed previously with a new bulb.
1. Remove the screws using a TorxR screwdriver. 2. Pull the taillamp housing assembly out. 6-36 3. To remove the socket with the bulb, squeeze the tab while you turn the socket counterclockwise.
Back-Up Lamps You can access the back-up lamps through the inboard taillamp opening. See “Rear Turn Signal and Taillamps” in the Index. 1. Squeeze the tab on the socket while turning it counterclockwise to remove it from the assembly. 2. Remove the bulb from the socket. 3. Reverse the steps listed previously with a new bulb. 4. Remove the bulb from the socket. 5. Reverse the steps listed previously with a new bulb.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement To remove the wiper blade assembly, do the following: Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Wiper Blade Check” in the index for more information. 2. Lift the wiper arm until it locks into a vertical position. 1. Open the hood to gain access to the windshield wipers. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways.
3. Press down on the blade assembly pivot locking tab (C). Pull down on the blade assembly (A) to release it from the wiper arm hook (F). 4. Remove the insert from the blade assembly (A). The insert has two notches at one end that are locked by the bottom claws of the blade assembly. At the notched end, pull the insert from the blade assembly. To install the new wiper insert, do the following: 1. Slide the insert (D), notched end last, into the end with two blade claws (A).
Installation guide: 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 Chevrolet Warranty booklet for details. CAUTION: A. Claw in Notch B. Correct Installation C. Incorrect Installation 6-40 Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous. D Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction.
CAUTION: (Continued) D Overinflated tires are more likely to be D cut, punctured or broken by a sudden impact -- such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them. Extended Mobility Tires (Except ZO6 Models) Your vehicle, when new, had Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT). There’s no spare tire, no tire changing equipment and no place to store a tire in the vehicle.
CAUTION: Extended mobility tires are constructed differently than other tires and could explode during improper service. You or others could be injured or killed if you attempt to repair, replace, dismount, or mount an extended mobility tire. Let only an authorized Goodyear EMT Service Center repair, replace, dismount and mount extended mobility tires. The valve stems on your extended mobility tires have sensors that are part of the Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM). See “Tire Pressure Monitor” in the Index.
Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label, which is on the rear edge of the driver’s door, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km). NOTICE: Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right. It’s not.
How to Check Tire Pressure Monitor (If Equipped) Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. The Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) has a sensor on each road wheel that transmits to a receiver on the instrument panel. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. If a tire’s inflation pressure is between 5 psi (35 kPa) and 25 psi (170 kPa), you will see a message on the Driver Information Center. This message will show which tire is underinflated and two chimes will sound. An example would be LOW TIRE PRESSURE-LR. This would mean that the inflation pressure in your left rear tire is between 5 psi (35 kPa) and 25 psi (170 kPa).
D The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep Tire Rotation The tires on your vehicle are different sizes front to rear. Due to this, your tires should not be rotated. Each tire and wheel should be used only in the position it is in. When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining.
CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes (other than those originally installed on your vehicle) or types (radial and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes (other than those originally installed on your vehicle) may also cause damage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the correct size and type tires on all four wheels.
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.
Wheel Replacement Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your dealer if any of these conditions exist. CAUTION: Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces.
CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off.
Used Replacement Wheels CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel. Your vehicle’s wheel lock key has a unique registration number. The registration number is printed on a card included in your lock nut package. Also on this card is lost key replacement information.
Tire Chains NOTICE: Don’t use tire chains. They can damage your vehicle because there’s not enough clearance. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the device if it’s contacting your vehicle, and don’t spin your wheels.
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 place the jack in the proper location before raising the vehicle.
Lifting From the Front The front lifting point can be accessed from either the driver’s or passenger’s side of the vehicle, behind the front tires. 1. Locate the lifting point (B) on either side of your vehicle to jack the vehicle according to the illustration shown. 2. Be sure to place a block or pad between the jack and the vehicle. 3. Lift the vehicle with the jack, making sure the jack spans at least two of the crossmember ribs (A).
Lifting From the Rear The rear lifting point can be accessed from the rear of the vehicle, on either the driver’s or passenger’s side. 1. Locate the lifting point to jack your vehicle according to the illustration shown. 2. Be sure to place a block or pad between the jack and the vehicle. 3. Lift the vehicle with the jack, making sure the jack spans at least two of the crossmember ribs (A). For more information, see “Doing Your Own Service Work” in the Index.
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 Coated Moldings These moldings are around the hatch opening in the rear area.
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. CAUTION: Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water. Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.
Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Cleaning a Removable Roof Panel Special care is necessary when cleaning, removing and/or storing the roof panel. D Flush with water to remove dust and dirt, then dry the panel.
See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index. Don’t use cleaning agents that are petroleum based, or that contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agents should be flushed promptly and not allowed to dry on the surface, or they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting. High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle. NOTICE: Conveyor systems on some automatic car washes may damage your vehicle.
Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible. Cleaning Your Convertible Top Your convertible top should be cleaned often. If you use an automatic car wash, use one with water jets and hanging cloths. High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle. When you hand wash the top, do it in partial shade.
Cleaning Tires Magnesium Wheel Finish To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. NOTICE: NOTICE: When applying a tire dressing always take care to wipe off any overspray or splash from all painted surfaces on the body or wheels of the vehicle. Petroleum-based products may damage the paint finish and tires. Finish Damage Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away.
Titanium Exhaust System (Z06 Model) Time and high performance driving conditions can cause a color change in titanium exhaust system parts. This is normal for a titanium surface. Fiberglass Springs NOTICE: Don’t use corrosive or acidic cleaning agents, engine degreasers, aluminum cleaning agents or other harsh solvents to clean fiberglass springs; they’ll damage the springs. 6-64 Chemical Paint Spotting Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout.
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. (0.237 L) DESCRIPTION Polishing Cloth – Wax Treated Tar and Road Oil Remover Chrome Cleaner and Polish White Sidewall Tire Cleaner Vinyl Cleaner Glass Cleaner t Protectant Armor All Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner 1052929 16 oz. (0.473 L) Wheel Cleaner 1052930 8 oz. (0.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Engine Identification The 8th character in your VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your engine, specifications and replacement parts. Service Parts Identification Label You’ll find this label located inside the glovebox. 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.
Electrical System Accessory Power Plug Add-On Electrical Equipment The accessory power plug can be used to connect electrical equipment such as a cellular phone or CB radio. It is located behind the carpeting, on the passenger’s side toe-board, at the top left corner near the body control module. Be sure to follow the installation instructions included with the equipment. NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first.
The plug has the following three separate wires: D The orange wire connects to battery power. D The yellow wire connects to ignition power. (Power is only available when the ignition is in ON.) NOTICE: (Continued) D Be sure to turn off any electrical equipment D The black wire connects to ground. NOTICE: When using the accessory power plug: D DO NOT splice wires directly into the vehicle electrical wire harness.
Windshield Wipers The windshield wiper motor is protected by a fuse and an internal circuit breaker. If the motor overheats due to heavy snow, etc., the wiper will stop until the motor cools. If the overload is caused by some electrical problem and not snow, etc., be sure to get it fixed. Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakers protect the power seats and other power accessories.
Minifuse 1 2 3 4 5 6 6-70 Usage Console Cigarette Lighter Monitored (Inadvertent) Load Control Lumbar Seat Driver Seat Control Module Radio, Compact Disc Player Parking Lamps, Taillamps Minifuse 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Usage Cigarette Lighter Stoplamp, Hazard Flashers Body Control Module Windshield Wiper/Washer Accessory Power Blank Body Control Module - Ignition 1 Crank Hazard/Turn Signal Air Bag Tonneau Release HVAC Controls Instrument Panel Control Cruise Control Automatic
Minifuse 25 Usage Body Control Module - Ignition 1, Instrument Panel Control 26 Hatch/Trunk Release 27 HVAC Controls 28 Bose Speakers 29 Diagnostic 30 Right Door Control Module 31 Power Feed Door Right 32 Fuel Tank Door 33 Door Control Module Left 34 Power Feed Door Left Circuit Breaker Usage 35 Driver Power Seat 36 Passenger Power Seat Micro Relay Usage 37 Monitored (Inadvertent) Load Control 38 Right Daytime Running Lamp 39 Hatch/Trunk Release 40 Left Daytime Running Lamp Micro Relay 41 42 43 44 Mini Re
Engine Compartment Fuse Block There is one fuse block in the engine compartment located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle in front of the battery. To remove the fuse block cover, turn the knob counterclockwise.
Minifuse 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Usage Fog Lamp Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD) Relay Headlamp Low-Beam Right Headlamp High-Beam Right Headlamp Low-Beam Left Horn Headlamp High-Beam Left Fuel Pump Cooling Fan - Ignition 3 Oxygen Sensor Powertrain Control Module Throttle Control Injector 2 Engine Ignition Blank Blank Injector 1 Powertrain Control Module Minifuse 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 Micro Relay 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 Usage Air Conditioning Blank Blank Spare Spare Spa
Mini Relay 42 43 44 45 Maxi-Fuse 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 6-74 Usage Ignition 1 Cooling Fan 2 Cooling Fan 3 Cooling Fan 1 Usage Cooling Fan 2 Blank Blank Cooling Fan 1 Air Pump Blank Anti-Lock Brakes Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD) Electronics Fuse Puller Replacement Bulbs High-Beam Headlamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9005 Low-Beam Headlamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9006 Back-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2057 Front/Rear Sidemarker . . .
Capacities and Specifications The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. Please refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index for more information. Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . See the refrigerant information label under the hood. Automatic Transmission Drain and Refill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.0 quarts (4.7 L) Overhaul . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10.8 quarts (10.2 L) Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12.6 quarts (11.
Engine Specifications Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.7L V8 VIN Engine Code LS1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G LS6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . S Displacement . . . . . . . . . 346 cubic inches (5665 cc) Fuel Delivery . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI) Valve Arrangement . . . . . . . . . . . . . Overhead Valve Piston Displacement . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle Dimensions Engine Accessory Drive Belt Routing Wheelbase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104.5 inches (265.5 cm) Front Tread Coupe/convertible . . . . . . . . 61.9 inches (157.2 cm) Z06 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62.4 inches (158.4 cm) Rear Tread Coupe/convertible . . . . . . . . 62.0 inches (157.4 cm) Z06 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62.6 inches (158.9 cm) Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179.7 inches (456.4 cm) Width . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73.6 inches (186.
Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance.
Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance procedures are important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of emissions from your vehicle.
How This Section is Organized This maintenance schedule is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services can be complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service department or another qualified service center do these jobs. CAUTION: Performing maintenance work on a vehicle can be dangerous. In trying to do some jobs, you can be seriously injured.
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we don’t know exactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very short distances only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances all the time in very hot, dusty weather. You may use your vehicle in making deliveries. Or you may drive it to work, to do errands or in many other ways.
Scheduled Maintenance The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km). See “Part B: Owner Checks and Services,” “Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections” and “Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” following Part A. Footnotes [ The U.S.
Scheduled Maintenance Engine Oil Scheduled Maintenance Change engine oil and filter as indicated by the Engine Oil Life SystemR (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). Reset the system. The system will show you when to change the oil -- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and 15,000 miles (25 000 km) since your last oil change. Under severe conditions, the indicator may come on before 3,000 miles (5 000 km).
Scheduled Maintenance 7-7
Scheduled Maintenance 7-8
Scheduled Maintenance 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) j Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote [.) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) j Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) j Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote [.
Scheduled Maintenance 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) j Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90_F (32_C) or higher. – In hilly or mountainous terrain. – Uses such as high performance operation. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter at 100,000 miles (166 000 km). Manual transmission fluid doesn’t require change.
Scheduled Maintenance 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) j Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote [.) 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) j Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) j Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. j Inspect spark plug wires. An Emission Control Service.
Scheduled Maintenance 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) (Continued) j Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90_F (32_C) or higher. – In hilly or mountainous terrain. – Uses such as high performance operation. Manual transmission fluid doesn’t require change.
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check Listed in this part are owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield washer tank and add the proper fluid if necessary. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index for further details. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
At Least Twice a Year Restraint System Check Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced.
Starter Switch Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See “Parking Brake” in the Index if necessary. NOTE: Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts. 3.
Ignition Automatic Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to OFF in each shift lever position. The key should turn to OFF only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). On all vehicles, the key should come out only in OFF. Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission PARK (P) Mechanism Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged.
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed in this part are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your dealer’s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Proper procedures to perform these services may be found in a service manual. See “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.
Engine Cooling System Inspection Brake System Inspection Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year. Inspect the complete system.
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Engine Coolant 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only GM GoodwrenchR DEX-COOLR or HavolineR DEX-COOLR Coolant. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index. NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your dealer. USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Engine Oil The engine requires a special engine oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M.
USAGE Manual Transmission Automatic Transmission FLUID/LUBRICANT USAGE DEXRONR-III Automatic Transmission Fluid. Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor and Release Pawl DEXRONR-III Automatic Transmission Fluid. Key Lock Cylinders Multi-Purpose Lubricant, SuperlubeR (GM Part No. 12346241 or equivalent). Rear Axle (Limited-Slip Differential) SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle Lubricant (GM Part No. 12378261 or equivalent) meeting GM Specification 9986115.
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Your owner information portfolio is a convenient place to store them.
Maintenance Record DATE 7-22 ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED
Maintenance Record DATE ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-23
Maintenance Record DATE 7-24 ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED
Section 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Chevrolet if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects.
Customer Satisfaction Procedure Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your dealer and to Chevrolet. Normally, any concerns with the sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
STEP TWO -- If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, contact the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center by calling 1-800-222-1020. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre in Oshawa by calling 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French). We encourage you to call the toll-free number in order to give your inquiry prompt attention.
The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court program administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus to settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle repairs or the interpretation of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Although you may be required to resort to this informal dispute resolution program prior to filing a court action, use of the program is free of charge and your case will generally be heard within 40 days.
From: Puerto Rico: 1-800-496-9992 (English) 1-800-496-9993 (Spanish) U.S. Virgin Islands: 1-800-496-9994 Fax Number: 313-381-0022 Canada General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 1-800-263-3777 (English) 1-800-263-7854 (French) 1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs)) Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800 Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U.S.
Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Program If your problem cannot be resolved over the phone, our advisors have access to a nationwide network of dealer recommended service providers. Roadside membership is free; however some services may incur costs.
Chevrolet offers Courtesy Transportation for customers needing warranty service. Courtesy Transportation will be offered in conjunction with the coverage provided by the Bumper-to-Bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty to eligible purchasers of 2001 Chevrolet passenger cars and light duty trucks. (Please see your selling dealer for details.
Courtesy Transportation Chevrolet 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 When your vehicle is unavailable due to overnight 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 $30.00 per day supported by receipts. This requires that you sign and complete a rental agreement and meet state, local and rental vehicle provider requirements. Requirements vary and may include minimum age requirements, insurance coverage, credit card, etc.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying General Motors. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-222-1020, or write: In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 Chevrolet Motor Division Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center P.O.
2001 CHEVROLET 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 (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-551-4123 (Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST) FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927 2 0 0 1 PUBLICATION FORM NUMBER 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.