2006 Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ........................... 1-1 Front Seats ............................................... 1-2 Rear Seats ............................................... 1-8 Safety Belts ............................................. 1-11 Child Restraints ....................................... 1-32 Airbag System ......................................... 1-54 Restraint System Check ............................ 1-69 Features and Controls ........................
Canadian Owners A French language copy of this manual can be obtained from your dealer or from: Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, the IMPALA Emblem, and the name IMPALA 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.
Safety Warnings and Symbols There are a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning. You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Do Not,” “Do Not do this” or “Do Not let this happen.” {CAUTION: These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people. In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is.
Vehicle Damage Warnings Vehicle Symbols Also, in this manual you will find these notices: The vehicle has components and labels that use symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with the text describing the operation or information relating to a specific component, control, message, gage, or indicator. Notice: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. A notice tells about something that can damage the vehicle.
These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle: v
✍ NOTES vi
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Front Seats ......................................................1-2 Manual Passenger Seat ..................................1-2 Six-Way Power Seats .....................................1-2 Eight-Way Power Seats ...................................1-3 Manual Lumbar ..............................................1-4 Heated Seats .................................................1-4 Reclining Seatbacks ........................................1-5 Head Restraints ..........
Front Seats Six-Way Power Seats Manual Passenger Seat Your vehicle may have a manual passenger seat. Passenger’s Seat with 6-way Power Control and Manual Recline shown Lift the bar located under the front of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it and release the bar. Try to move the seat with your body to be sure the seat is locked in place. Your vehicle may have a 6-way power driver’s or passenger’s seat. The control is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion.
Eight-Way Power Seats Your vehicle may have an 8-way power driver’s seat. The controls are located on the outboard side of the seat cushion. To adjust the seat, do any of the following: • Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding the horizontal control forward or rearward. • Raise or lower the front part of the seat cushion by moving the front of the horizontal control up or down. • Raise or lower the rear part of the seat cushion by moving the rear of the horizontal control up or down.
Manual Lumbar Heated Seats If your vehicle has this feature, the buttons that control temperature for the driver’s and front passenger’s seats are located on the climate control panel. See Climate Control System on page 3-19. Driver’s Seat with Manual Lumbar and 8-way Power Controls shown If your vehicle has manual lumbar, the lever is located on the outboard side of the driver’s seat near the front of the seat cushion. Lift up on the lever repeatedly to increase lumbar support.
Reclining Seatbacks Your vehicle may have an 8-way power driver’s seat. The vertical control is used to recline the seatback and is located on the outboard side of the seat cushion rear of the horizontal power seat control. Press the front of the control to recline the seatback. Press the rear of the control to raise the seatback. Passenger’s Seat with Manual Recline and 6-way Power Control shown Your vehicle has manual recline on the front passenger’s seat.
{CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts cannot do their job when you are reclined like this. The shoulder belt cannot do its job because it will not 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 cannot do its job either. In a crash, the belt could go up over your abdomen.
Head Restraints Press the button on the side of the head restraint to lower it. Adjust your head restraint so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.
Center Seat Rear Seats Split Folding Rear Seat Flip and Fold Feature If your vehicle has this feature, you can flip the bottom seat cushion(s) forward and fold the seatback(s) down for an extended flat cargo area. To use this feature, do the following: 1. Disconnect the rear center safety belt latch from the mini buckle by using an object such as a car key. Your vehicle may have a front center seat. There are cupholders on the underside of the seat cushion. To use them, flip the seat cushion forward.
2. Flip the bottom seat cushion forward by pulling up on the tab located in the center of the seat cushion where the seatback meets the seat cushion. There is a tab on both rear seats. Make sure the front seats are not reclined. If they are, the seat cushion will not flip forward completely. 3. Lower the seatback(s) by pulling forward on the tab located on the outboard side of the seatback(s). Make sure the front seats are not reclined. If they are, the rear seatbacks will not fold down all the way.
3. Reconnect the rear center safety belt latch plate to the mini buckle. To return the seats to the normal position, do the following: {CAUTION: If the seatback is not locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is locked. 1. Raise the seatback up and make sure it latches.
Safety Belts {CAUTION: Safety Belts: They Are 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. {CAUTION: Do not let anyone ride where he or she cannot wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you are not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed.
You never know if you will be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you do not know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up, a person would not survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.
Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider does not stop.
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield... 1-14 or the instrument panel...
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I am wearing a safety belt? A: You could be — whether you are wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you are 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.
Q: If I am a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you are in an accident — even one that is not your fault — you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver does not protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h).
5. Move the shoulder belt height adjuster to the height that is right for you. See Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment on page 1-23. 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Do not let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly. 6. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you would be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
Q: What is 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 will not give nearly as much protection this way.
Q: What is 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 is 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 are not 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 is wrong with this? {CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you would not 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.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. 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. To move it down, squeeze the buttons (A) on the sides of the height adjuster and move the height adjuster to the desired position.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Right Front Passenger Position Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear safety belts. To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see Driver Position on page 1-16. The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt — except for one thing.
When you sit in the center front seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-31.
Rear Seat Passengers It is very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who are not safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Lap-Shoulder Belt All rear seat positions have lap-shoulder belts. Here is how to wear one properly. 1.
2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-31. 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. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder part.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you would be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
There is one guide for each outboard passenger position in the rear seat. Here is how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt: 1. Pull the guide out from the pocket on the edge of the seatback. To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle. Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides Rear shoulder belt comfort guides may provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for some adults.
3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top. {CAUTION: A safety belt that is not properly worn may not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
4. Buckle, position, and release the safety belt as described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 1-26. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guides. Slide the guide into the storage pocket on the edge of the seatback. Safety Belt Pretensioners Your vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for the driver and right front passenger.
Child Restraints Older Children Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? A: An older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs. It should never be worn over the abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash.
{CAUTION: Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can not properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.
Q: 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? A: If the child is sitting in a seat next to a window, move the child toward the center of the vehicle. Also see Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides on page 1-29. If the child is sitting in the center rear seat passenger position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle.
Infants and Young 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: Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed.
{CAUTION: {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.
Child Restraint Systems An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle. 1-38 A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields. A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a five-point harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.
Q: How Should I Use a Child Restraint? A: 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. To help reduce injuries, an add-on child restraint must be secured in the vehicle. With built-in or add-on child restraints, the child has to be secured within the child restraint.
To help reduce the chance of injury, the child restraint must be secured in the vehicle. Child restraint systems must be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt, or by the LATCH system. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-43 for more information. A child can be endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle.
Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We, therefore, recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. Your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate a rear-facing child restraint.
{CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger’s airbag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It is always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. Wherever you install a child restraint, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle.
Lower Anchors Top Tether Anchor Lower anchors (A) are metal bars built into the vehicle. There are two lower anchors for each LATCH seating position that will accommodate a child restraint with lower attachments (B). A top tether (A, C) anchors the top of the child restraint to the vehicle. A top tether anchor is built into the vehicle.
Some top tether-equipped child restraints are designed for use with or without the top tether being attached. Others require the top tether always to be attached. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top tether. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint.
The top tether anchors are located under the trim covers on the rear seatback filler panel behind each head restraint. Be sure to use an anchor located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 1-42 for additional information.
{CAUTION: Each top tether anchor and lower anchor in the vehicle is designed to hold only one child restraint. Attaching more than one child restraint to a single anchor could cause the anchor or attachment to come loose or even break during a crash. A child or others could be injured if this happens. To help prevent injury to people and damage to your vehicle, attach only one child restraint per anchor. 1. Find the lower anchors, if equipped, for the desired seating position. 2.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position If your child restraint is equipped with the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-43. If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. 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.
4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
6. If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with the child restraint and see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-43. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, if the top tether is attached to the top tether anchor, disconnect it.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position Your vehicle has a right front passenger’s airbag. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 1-42. In addition, your vehicle has a passenger sensing system. The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger’s frontal airbag when an infant in a rear-facing infant seat or a small child in a forward-facing child restraint or booster seat is detected.
There is no top tether anchor at the right front seating position. Do not secure a child restraint in this position if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be anchored. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-43 if your child restraint has a top tether. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3.
5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the child restraint. If after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the child restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens, slightly recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the seat cushion if possible.
Here are the most important things to know about the airbag system: {CAUTION: You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt — even if you have airbags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Airbags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. All airbags are designed to work with safety belts but do not replace them.
{CAUTION: {CAUTION: Both frontal and side impact airbags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you are too close to an inflating airbag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for airbag inflation before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt even with frontal airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.
There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel cluster, which shows the airbag symbol. Where Are the Airbags? The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-27 for more information. The driver’s frontal airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
The right front passenger’s frontal airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. 1-58 If your vehicle has a side impact airbag for the driver and the person seated directly behind the driver, it is in the ceiling above the side windows.
{CAUTION: If your vehicle has a side impact airbag for the right front passenger and the person seated directly behind that passenger, it is in the ceiling above the side windows. If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating airbag must be kept clear.
When Should an Airbag Inflate? The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. But they are designed to inflate only if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment thresholds take into account a variety of desired deployment and non-deployment events and are used to predict how severe a crash is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help restrain the occupants.
Your vehicle may or may not have side impact airbags. See Airbag System on page 1-54. Side impact airbags are intended to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes. A side impact airbag will inflate if the crash severity is above the system’s designed threshold level. The threshold level can vary with specific vehicle design. Side impact airbags are not intended to inflate in frontal or near-frontal impacts, rollovers or rear impacts.
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? After a frontal airbag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the airbag inflated. Roof-mounted side impact airbags deflate more slowly and may still be at least partially inflated minutes after the vehicle comes to rest. Some components of the airbag module may be hot for a short time.
Your vehicle has a feature that may automatically unlock the doors and turn on the interior lamps and hazard warning flashers when the airbags inflate (if battery power is available.) You can lock the doors again and turn the interior lamps and hazard warning flashers off by using the door lock and interior lamp control and hazard warning flasher control. • Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After an airbag inflates, you will need some new parts for your airbag system.
The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger’s seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the passenger’s airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.
The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger’s airbag if: • the right front passenger seat is unoccupied • the system determines that an infant is present in a rear-facing infant seat • the system determines that a small child is present in a forward-facing child restraint • the system determines that a small child is present in a booster seat • a right front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of time • the right front passenger seat is occupie
If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front passenger’s seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be because that person is not sitting properly in the seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off and ask the person to place the seatback in the fully upright position, then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, with the person’s legs comfortably extended. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for about two minutes.
Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. You may want to consider not using seat covers or other aftermarket equipment if your vehicle has the passenger sensing system. See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-68 for more information about modifications that can affect how the system operates. Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Q: Is there anything I might add to the front or sides of the vehicle that could keep the airbags from working properly? A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s frame, bumper system, front end or side sheet metal or height, they may keep the airbag system from working properly. Also, the airbag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the airbag sensors.
Restraint System Check Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash Checking the Restraint Systems 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. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces.
If the LATCH system was being used during a more severe crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system was not being used at the time of the collision. If an airbag inflates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section.
Section 2 Features and Controls Keys ...............................................................2-2 Remote Keyless Entry System .........................2-3 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...........2-4 Doors and Locks ............................................2-10 Door Locks ..................................................2-10 Power Door Locks ........................................2-11 Automatic Door Lock .....................................2-11 Programmable Automatic Door Unlock ......
Keys {CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The children or others could be badly injured or even killed. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
One key is used for the ignition and the driver’s door. Remote Keyless Entry System The remote keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • This device may not cause harmful interference. • This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: • Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. • 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.
See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-53 for additional information. Pressing the lock button may arm the content theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-17.
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your GM dealer. Remember to bring any additional transmitters so they can also be re-coded to match the new transmitter. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. The vehicle can have a maximum of eight transmitters matched to it.
3. Slide the new battery into the transmitter with the positive side of the battery facing down. Use a type CR2032 battery, or equivalent type. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water will not get in. 4. Snap the front and the back of the transmitter together. 5. Test the operation of the transmitter with the vehicle. Remote Vehicle Start To replace the battery in the remote keyless entry transmitter do the following: 1.
If your vehicle has an outside temperature display, during remote start this feature allows the climate control system to default to a heating mode during colder outside temperatures and a cooling mode during warmer outside temperatures. If your vehicle does not have an outside temperature display, during remote start the climate control system will turn on at the setting the vehicle was set to when the vehicle was last turned off. Laws in some communities may restrict the use of remote starters.
To manually shut off a remote start, do any of the following: • Aim the remote keyless entry transmitter at the vehicle and press the remote start button until the parking lamps turn off. • Turn on the hazards warning flashers. • Turn the ignition switch on and then off. The remote vehicle start feature provides two separate starts, each with 10 minutes of engine running, or it provides one start with 10 minutes of engine running that may be extended with 10 more minutes.
Doors and Locks Door Locks {CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. • Passengers — especially children — can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. • Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out.
Power Door Locks Automatic Door Lock A power door lock switch is located on both front doors next to the door handle. The doors will automatically lock when the shift lever is moved out of PARK (P). The automatic door locking feature cannot be disabled. Programmable Automatic Door Unlock Your vehicle is programmed so that when the shift lever is moved into PARK (P) all doors will unlock. Press the top of the switch to unlock all doors, or press the bottom of the switch to lock all doors.
Rear Door Security Locks Your vehicle has rear door security locks that prevent passengers from opening the rear doors from the inside. The rear door security locks are located on the inside edge of each rear door. You must open the rear doors to access them. When you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on, do the following: 1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless entry transmitter, if equipped, the power door lock switch, or by lifting the rear door manual lock. 2.
Lockout Protection This feature helps prevent you from locking the doors while your key is in the ignition. Always remember to take your key with you when exiting your vehicle. If the lock switch is pressed on the door that is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver’s door will unlock. A chime will sound continuously until all doors are closed.
Trunk Release Emergency Trunk Release Handle To open the trunk from the outside, press the open trunk button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. Notice: Do not use the emergency trunk release handle as a tie-down or anchor point when securing items in the trunk as it could damage the handle. The emergency trunk release handle is only intended to aid a person trapped in a latched trunk, enabling them to open the trunk from the inside.
Windows {CAUTION: Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.
Power Windows Express-Down Window The driver’s window switch has an express-down feature labeled AUTO. This allows you to lower the window completely without holding the switch. Press the front of the switch to the second position and release. To stop the window while it is lowering, briefly pull up on the switch. Window Lockout The switches on the driver’s door armrest are used to control each of the windows.
Sun Visors Content Theft-Deterrent To block out glare, swing down the sun visors. They can be detached from the center retainer and slid along the rod to cover different areas of the front window and rotated to cover the side windows. Your vehicle may have the optional content theft-deterrent alarm system. To activate the theft-deterrent system: 1. Open the door. Visor Vanity Mirror Swing down the sun visors and lift the cover to expose the vanity mirror.
Arming with the Power Lock Switch PASS-Key® III+ The alarm system will arm when you use either power lock switch to lock the doors while any door or the trunk is open and the key is removed from the ignition. The PASS-Key® III+ system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. Arming with the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
PASS-Key® III+ Operation Your vehicle has PASS-Key® III+ (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® III+ is a passive theft-deterrent system. This means you do not have to do anything special to arm or disarm the system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition or transition the key from run, accessory or start from the off position. When the PASS-Key® III+ system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it prevents the vehicle from starting.
To program the new key do the following: 1. Verify that the new key has a + stamped on it. 2. Insert the original, already programmed, key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer for service. 3. After the engine has started, turn the key to OFF, and remove the key. 4. Insert the new key to be programmed and turn it to the RUN position within five seconds of removing the original key. 5. The security light will turn off once the key has been programmed. 6.
Ignition Positions With the ignition key in the ignition, the key can be turned to four different positions: A (OFF): This is the only position in which the ignition key can be inserted or removed. This position locks the ignition and transaxle. It is a theft-deterrent feature. B (ACCESSORY): This position lets the radio and windshield wipers operate while the engine is off. To use ACCESSORY, turn the key clockwise. C (RUN): This position is where the key returns to after the vehicle is started.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) The vehicle has Retained Accessory Power (RAP), which will allow your vehicle’s radio to work when the ignition key is in the RUN or ACCESSORY position. Once the key is turned from RUN to OFF the radio will continue to work 10 minutes or until the driver’s door is opened. Also, the power windows will continue to work for up to 10 minutes or until any door is opened. Starting the Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Engine Coolant Heater Your vehicle may have this feature. In very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You will get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
Displacement on Demand™ (DoD™) (5.3L V8 Engine) Your vehicle’s engine may be equipped with Displacement on Demand™ (DoD™). This system allows the engine to operate on either all or half of its cylinders, depending on your driving conditions. When less power is required, such as cruising at a constant vehicle speed, the system will operate in the half cylinder mode, allowing your vehicle to achieve better fuel economy.
{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 will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-36. Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart when you are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. {CAUTION: Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Do not shift into a drive gear while your engine is running at high speed.
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads. You would also then want to use your brakes off and on. Notice: Driving in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km) or at speeds over 55 mph (90 km/h) may damage the transaxle. Also, shifting into SECOND (2) at speeds above 65 mph (105 km/h) can cause damage.
A warning chime will sound and a brake warning light located on the instrument panel cluster will come on, if the parking brake is set, the ignition is on and the shift lever is not in PARK (P). Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off before driving. If you are towing a trailer and parking on any hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 4-36.
Steering Column Shift Lever 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by pulling the shift lever toward you and moving it up as far as it will go. 3. Turn the ignition key to OFF. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P). Console Shift Lever 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2.
Torque Lock Shifting Out of Park (P) If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page 2-28.
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust {CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. {CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn. You might have exhaust coming in if: • Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. • Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
Running the Engine While Parked It is 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 on page 2-31. Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the climate control fan is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage.
Mirrors There are two map lamps located on the bottom of the mirror. Press the button next to each lamp to turn it on and off. Manual Rearview Mirror There are also OnStar® buttons located at the bottom of the mirror face. See your dealer for more information on the system and how to subscribe to OnStar®. See OnStar® System on page 2-35 for more information about the services OnStar® provides. If the vehicle has this mirror, it has a lever located at the bottom of the mirror between the two lamps.
Outside Power Mirrors The outside power mirror controls are located on the driver’s door armrest. Heated Outside Mirrors If your vehicle has this feature, the surface of the outside mirrors will heat when the rear window defogger is activated. Outside Convex 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.
OnStar® System For more information, visit www.onstar.com or www.onstar.ca. Contact OnStar® at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827), or press the OnStar® button to speak to an OnStar® advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Terms and conditions of the Subscription Service Agreement can be found at www.onstar.com or www.onstar.ca.
Directions and Connections® Plan • All Safe and Sound Plan Services • Driving Directions • RideAssist • Information and Convenience Services OnStar® Personal Calling As an OnStar® subscriber, the Personal Calling capability allows you to make hands-free calls using a wireless system that is integrated into the vehicle. Calls can be placed nationwide using simple voice commands with no additional contracts and no additional roaming charges.
Universal Home Remote System This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes and modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
Read the instructions completely before attempting to program the Universal Home Remote. Because of the steps involved, it may be helpful to have another person available to assist you in the programming steps. Keep the original hand-held transmitter for use in other vehicles as well as for future Universal Home Remote programming. It is also recommended that upon the sale of the vehicle, the programmed Universal Home Remote buttons should be erased for security purposes.
5. Press and hold the newly-trained Universal Home Remote button and observe the indicator light. If the indicator light stays on constantly, programming is complete and your device should activate when the Universal Home Remote button is pressed and released. To program the remaining two Universal Home Remote buttons, begin with Step 2 under “Programming Universal Home Remote.” Do not repeat Step 1 as this will erase all of the programmed channels.
Gate Operator and Canadian Programming Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter signals to time out or quit after several seconds of transmission. This may not be long enough for Universal Home Remote to pick up the signal during programming. Similarly, some U.S. gate operators are manufactured to time out in the same manner.
Reprogramming a Single Universal Home Remote Button Storage Areas To program a device to Universal Home Remote using a Universal Home Remote button previously trained, follow these steps: 1. Press and hold the desired Universal Home Remote button. Do not release the button. 2. The indicator light will begin to flash after 20 seconds. While still holding the Universal Home Remote button, proceed with Step 2 under “Programming Universal Home Remote” shown earlier in this section.
Center Console Storage Area Convenience Net If equipped, your vehicle has a front center console area. To open the front center console storage area, pull up on the latch located in the front of the console lid. Inside is a removable tray and an accessory power outlet. The vehicle may have a convenience net located on the back wall of the trunk. The net is not for larger, heavier loads. Store those in the trunk as far forward as possible. Unhook the net so that it will lie flat when not in use.
The sunroof can only be operated when the ignition is in ACCESSORY, RUN, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-22. Q (Vent/Express-Open): To vent the sunroof when it is closed, press this switch once. When using the vent, the sunshade should be fully opened. The sunshade can be opened or closed manually by sliding it rearward or forward. A deflector will automatically pop up when the sunroof is opened.
✍ NOTES 2-44
Section 3 Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Overview ...............................3-4 Hazard Warning Flashers ................................3-6 Other Warning Devices ...................................3-6 Horn .............................................................3-6 Tilt Wheel .....................................................3-6 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever .........................3-7 Turn and Lane-Change Signals ........................3-7 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer ..............
Section 3 Instrument Panel Brake System Warning Light ..........................3-30 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light .............3-31 Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light ......3-32 Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light ......3-32 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ..................3-33 Tire Pressure Light .......................................3-33 Malfunction Indicator Lamp .............................3-34 Oil Pressure Light .........................................3-36 Security Light ...
✍ NOTES 3-3
Instrument Panel Overview 3-4
The main components of your instrument panel are listed here: A. Air Vent. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-22. B. Remote Trunk Release Button. See “Remote Trunk Release” under Trunk on page 2-13. C. Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7. D. Instrument Panel Cluster. See Instrument Panel Cluster on page 3-25. E. Hazard Warning Flasher Button. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 3-6. F. Driver Information Center. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-39. G.
Hazard Warning Flashers Horn Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press near or on the horn symbols on your steering wheel pad to sound the horn. The hazard warning flasher button is located on top of the steering column. Tilt Wheel A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive.
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 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 Flash-to-Pass If you leave either one of your turn signals on and drive more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound to alert you. With the turn signal lever in the low-beam position, pull the lever toward you momentarily to switch to high-beams (to signal that you are going to pass). If you have the headlamps on, they will return to low-beams when you release the lever. This feature operates even when the headlamps are off.
N(Delay): You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to the top of the lever, the shorter the delay. 6 (Low Speed): For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the first solid band past the delay settings. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to the second solid band past the delay settings. To stop the wipers, move the band to off.
Cruise Control With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may turn the cruise control back on. The cruise control buttons are located on left side of the steering wheel.
Setting Cruise Control Resuming a Set Speed Cruise control will not work if your parking brake is set, or if the master cylinder brake fluid level is low. Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will shut off. The CRUISE light on the instrument panel cluster will come on after the cruise control has been set to the desired speed.
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control To reduce your speed while using cruise control: • Press and hold the SET– button on the steering wheel until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. • To slow down in very small amounts, press the cancel button on the steering wheel briefly. Each time you do this, you’ll go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed.
Exterior Lamps The exterior lamps control is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.
Delayed Headlamps A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the DRL work, so be sure it isn’t covered. The delayed headlamps feature provides a period of exterior lighting as you leave the area around your vehicle. The feature is activated when the headlamps are on due to the automatic headlamps control feature described previously in this section, and when the ignition is turned off.
Fog Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness - (Fog Lamps): If your vehicle is equipped with fog lamps, it is located on the exterior lamps control. The exterior lamps control is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering column. D (Instrument Panel Brightness): This feature controls the brightness of the instrument panel lights. Your ignition must be in RUN for the fog lamps to illuminate. To turn the fog lamps on, press exterior lamps button.
Entry Lighting Your vehicle may be equipped with courtesy lamps that will come on and stay on for a set time whenever you press UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter (if equipped). If you open a door, the lamps will stay on while it’s open and then turn off automatically about 25 seconds after you close it. If you press UNLOCK and don’t open a door, the lamps will turn off after about 40 seconds. Entry lighting includes a feature called theater dimming.
Parade Dimming The instrument panel has an added feature called parade mode. This feature prohibits the dimming of your instrument panel displays during the daylight while the headlamps are on so that you’ll still be able to see the displays. Reading Lamps Your vehicle may be equipped with reading lamps that are located in the dome lamp. Press the button to turn them on and off.
Certain accessory plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in blown vehicle and adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the power accessory plugs. Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to your vehicle may damage it or keep other components from working as they should. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not use equipment exceeding maximum amperage rating.
Climate Controls Climate Control System Your vehicle may be equipped with a dual or single climate control system. With this system you can control the heating, cooling, defrost, defog and ventilation for your vehicle. Single Zone Manual Operation Turn the right knob clockwise or counterclockwise to direct the airflow inside of your vehicle.
6 (Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the floor outlets, with some of the air directed to the windshield and side window outlets. In this mode, the system will automatically select Outside Air. The right knob can also be used to select defog or defrost mode. For more information, see “Defogging and Defrosting” later in this section. By positioning the right knob between two modes, a combination of those two modes is selected.
For quick cool down on hot days, do the following: 1. Select the vent mode. 2. Select the outside air. 3. Select A/C. 4. Select the coolest temperature for both zones. 5. Select the highest fan speeds. 6. Once the vehicle’s interior temperature is below the outside temperature, select recirculation mode for enhanced cooling. Using these settings together for long periods of time may cause the air inside of your vehicle to become too dry.
Rear Window Defogger The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. <: The rear window defogger will turn off automatically after it has been activated. The duration the rear window defogger is on will be longer if the vehicle is being driven. The defogger can also be turned off by pressing the button again or by turning off the engine.
Passenger Compartment Air Filter Your vehicle is equipped with a passenger compartment particulate air filter. It is located underneath the hood just below the windshield wiper arm on the passenger’s side of the vehicle, underneath the air inlet grille. The filter traps most of the pollen from air entering the Climate Control System. Like your engine’s air cleaner/filter, it may need to be changed periodically to ensure system performance.
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions.
Instrument Panel Cluster Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You will know how fast you are going, about how much fuel is in your tank and many other things you need to drive safely and economically.
Speedometer and Odometer Safety Belt Reminder Light Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven in either miles (used in the United States) or in kilometers (used in Canada). When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will be provided for several seconds to remind people to buckle their safety belts.
This chime and light will be repeated if the passenger remains unbuckled and the vehicle is in motion. If the airbag readiness light stays on after you start the vehicle or comes on when you are driving, your airbag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. {CAUTION: If the passenger’s safety belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on. Airbag Readiness Light There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the airbag symbol.
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator Your vehicle has the passenger sensing system. Your instrument panel has a passenger airbag status indicator. If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger airbag status indicator, it means that the right front passenger’s frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate).
{CAUTION: Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child restraint, no system is failsafe, and no one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. We recommend that rear-facing child restraints be secured in the rear seat, even if the airbag is off.
Charging System Light The charging system light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you it is working. It should go out once the engine is running. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the charging system. It could indicate that you have problems with a generator drive belt, or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery.
When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will also come on when you set your parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means you have a brake problem. If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push, or the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop.
Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light For vehicles equipped with the traction control system, this warning light should come on briefly when the engine is started. If the warning light does not come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. If it stays on, or comes on when you are driving, there may be a problem with your traction control system and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Tire Pressure Light If equipped, this light should come on briefly as you start the engine. It will then come on only when a flat or low tire pressure condition exists. See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 5-61 for more information. United States Canada This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves towards the “H” (United States) or the shaded in thermostat (Canada), it means that your engine coolant has overheated.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp Check Engine Light Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition, and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The check engine light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required.
If the Light is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: • • • • Reducing vehicle speed Avoiding hard accelerations Avoiding steep uphill grades If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Some state/provincial and local governments have or may begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle registration. Here are some things you need to know 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.
This light tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure. The light goes on when you turn your key to RUN or START. It goes off once you start your engine. That is a check to be sure the light works. If it does not come on, be sure to have it fixed so it will be there to warn you if something goes wrong. When the light comes on and stays on, it means that oil is not flowing through your engine properly. You could be low on oil and you might have some other system problem.
Cruise Control Light Fuel Gage This light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. The light will go out when the cruise control is turned off. See Cruise Control on page 3-10 for more information. Highbeam On Light This light will come on when the high-beam headlamps are in use. See Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer on page 3-8. 3-38 United States Canada When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have remaining. Here are four things that some owners ask about.
Driver Information Center (DIC) DIC Operation and Displays Your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC). The DIC has different displays which can be accessed by pressing the DIC buttons located on the instrument panel, to the right of the instrument panel cluster. All messages will appear in the DIC display located below the speedometer in the instrument panel cluster. The DIC buttons are located on the instrument panel, to the right of the instrument panel cluster.
T (Vehicle Information): Press this button to display the oil life, units, tire pressure readings and Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system programming on vehicles with a Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system, compass zone and compass calibration on vehicles with this feature, and remote keyless entry transmitter programming. U (Customization): Press this button to customize the feature settings on your vehicle. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 3-53 for more information.
Fuel Range Average Economy Press the trip/fuel button until FUEL RANGE displays. This display shows the approximate number of remaining miles (mi) or kilometers (km) the vehicle can be driven without refueling. Press the trip/fuel button until AVG ECONOMY displays. This display shows the approximate average miles per gallon (mpg) or liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km). This number is calculated based on the number of mpg (L/100 km) recorded since the last time this menu item was reset.
Average Speed Press the trip/fuel button until AVERAGE SPEED displays. This display shows the average speed of the vehicle in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h). This average is calculated based on the various vehicle speeds recorded since the last reset of this value. To reset the value, press and hold the set/reset button. The display will return to zero. Blank Display This display shows no information.
Units Learn Tire Positions Press the vehicle information button until UNITS displays. This display allows you to select between English or Metric units of measurement. Once in this display, press the set/reset button to select between ENGLISH or METRIC units. If your vehicle has a Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system, after rotating the tires or after replacing a tire or sensor, the system must re-learn the tire positions. To re-learn the tire positions, see Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 5-61.
To adjust for compass variance, use the following procedure: Compass Variance Procedure 1. Press the vehicle information button until PRESS V TO CHANGE COMPASS ZONE displays. 3. Press the set/reset button to scroll through and select the appropriate variance zone. Navigate to one of the trip/fuel menu screens to view the direction the vehicle is moving. This will be shown in the top right corner of the DIC display. 4. If you need to calibrate the compass, use the compass calibration procedure.
Remote Key Customization Menu Items This display allows you to match the remote keyless entry transmitter to your vehicle. To match a remote keyless entry transmitter to your vehicle, do the following: U (Customization): 1. Press the vehicle information button until PRESS V TO RELEARN REMOTE KEY displays. 2. Press the set/reset button. The message REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE will display. 3. Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on the first transmitter at the same time for approximately 15 seconds.
AUTOMATIC LIGHT CONTROL OFF This message will display when the automatic headlamps are turned off. See Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)/Automatic Headlamp System on page 3-14 for more information. AUTOMATIC LIGHT CONTROL ON This message will display when the automatic headlamps are turned on. See Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)/Automatic Headlamp System on page 3-14 for more information.
DRIVER DOOR OPEN ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE This message will display when the driver’s door is not closed properly. When this message appears, you should make sure that the driver’s door is closed completely. Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the engine is overheating, severe engine damage may occur. If an overheat warning appears on the instrument panel cluster and/or DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Do not increase the engine speed above normal idling speed.
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED HOOD OPEN This message will display when the vehicle’s engine power is reduced. Reduced engine power can affect the vehicle’s ability to accelerate. If this message is on, but there is no reduction in performance, proceed to your destination. The performance may be reduced the next time the vehicle is driven. The vehicle may be driven at a reduced speed while this message is on, but acceleration and speed may be reduced.
OIL PRESSURE LOW STOP ENGINE REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the engine oil pressure is low, severe engine damage may occur. If a low oil pressure warning appears on the Driver Information Center (DIC), stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Do not drive the vehicle until the cause of the low oil pressure is corrected. See Engine Oil on page 5-17 for more information. This message will display while you are matching a remote keyless entry transmitter to your vehicle.
SERVICE AIR BAG SERVICE POWER STEERING This message will display when there is a problem with the airbag system. Have your vehicle serviced by your GM dealer immediately. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-27 for more information. This message will display when a problem is detected with the power steering system. When this message is displayed, you may notice that the effort required to steer the vehicle increases or feels heavier, but you will still be able to steer the vehicle.
SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL If your vehicle has the traction control system, this message will display when the system is not functioning properly. A warning light will also appear on the instrument panel cluster. See Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light on page 3-32. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9 for more information. Have the traction control system serviced by your GM dealer as soon as possible.
TRACTION CONTROL OFF TRUNK OPEN If your vehicle has the traction control system, this message will display when the traction control system turns off. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9 for more information. This message will display when the trunk is not closed completely. You should make sure that the trunk is closed completely. See Trunk on page 2-13.
DIC Vehicle Customization Feature Settings Menu Items Your vehicle has customization capabilities that allow you to program certain features to one preferred setting. Customization features can only be programmed to one setting on the vehicle and cannot be programmed to a preferred setting for two different drivers. All of the customization options may not be available on your vehicle. Only the options available will be displayed on your DIC.
ESPANOL (Spanish): All messages will appear in Spanish. ALL IN PARK (default): All of the doors will unlock when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P). NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this feature. The current setting will remain. Select one of the available choices and press the set/reset button while it is displayed on the DIC to select it. NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this feature. The current setting will remain.
HORN ONLY: The horn will sound when you press the lock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. HORN & LIGHTS ON (default): The exterior lamps will flash when you press the lock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter, and the horn will sound when the lock button is pressed again within five seconds of the previous command. NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this feature. The current setting will remain.
Press the customization button until EXIT LIGHTING appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices: Press the customization button until APPROACH LIGHTING appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices: OFF: The exterior lamps will not turn on.
CHIME VOLUME This feature allows you to select the volume level of the chime. Press the customization button until CHIME VOLUME appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset button to access the settings for this feature. Then press the customization button to scroll through the following choices: NORMAL (default): The chime volume will be set to a normal level. LOUD: The chime volume will be set to a loud level. NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this feature. The current setting will remain.
DO NOT RESTORE: The customization features will not be set to their factory default settings. Select one of the available choices and press the set/reset button while it is displayed on the DIC to select it. EXIT FEATURE SETTINGS This feature allows you to exit the FEATURE SETTINGS menu. Press the customization button until PRESS V TO EXIT FEATURE SETTINGS appears in the DIC display. Press the set/reset button to exit the menu.
Keeping your mind on the drive is important for safe driving. For more information, see Defensive Driving on page 4-2. Get familiar with your vehicle’s audio system so you can use it with less effort and take full advantage of its features. Added sound equipment may interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s engine, radio, or other systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation of sound equipment that has been added.
Setting the Time (Without Date Display) If your vehicle has a base AM/FM radio with a single CD player and preset buttons numbered one through six, the radio will have a clock button for setting the time. You can set the time by following these steps: 1. Press the clock button until the hour numbers begin flashing on the display. Press the clock button a second time and the minute numbers will begin flashing on the display. 2.
Radio with CD (Base) Finding a Station BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2 or AM. The display will show the selection. f (Tune): Turn this knob to select radio stations. © SEEK ¨: Press the right or left SEEK arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there. To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for a few seconds until you hear a beep. The radio will go to a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next station.
Setting Preset Stations Up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM), can be programmed on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, or AM. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons for three seconds until you hear a beep. Whenever that pushbutton is pressed and released, the station that was set will return. 5. Repeat the Steps 2-4 for each pushbutton.
Playing a CD (Single CD Player) Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the CD should begin playing. If the ignition or radio is turned off with a CD in the player, it will stay in the player. When the ignition or radio is turned on, the CD will start playing where it stopped, if it was the last selected audio source. When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol will appear on the radio display. As each new track starts to play, the track number will appear on the display.
\ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to advance playback quickly within a track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this pushbutton to resume playing the track. The elapsed time of the track will appear on the display. RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to CD tracks in random, rather than sequential order. To use random, do the following: 1. Press this button to play tracks from the CD you are listening to in random order. The random icon will appear on the display. 2.
Listening to a Portable Audio Player Radio with CD (MP3) To listen to a portable audio player such as an MP3 player or cassette player over the radio and speakers, use a cable to connect your portable audio player to the auxiliary input located on the lower right side of the radio faceplate. When a device is connected, the radio automatically begins playing audio from the device over the car speakers.
In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect information that will cause the radio features to work improperly. If this happens, contact the radio station. XM™ Satellite Radio Service XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based in the 48 contiguous United States and in Canada (if available). XM™ offers over 100 coast-to-coast channels including music, news, sports, talk, traffic/weather, and children’s programming.
The radio will only seek and scan stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band. To store a station as a favorite, perform the following steps: 4 (Information) (XM™ Satellite Radio Service, MP3, 1. Tune to the desired radio station. and RDS Features): Press the information button to display additional text information related to the current FM-RDS or XM™ station, or MP3 song. A choice of additional information such as: Channel, Song, Artist, and CAT may appear.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble) Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) BASS/MID/TREB (Bass, Midrange, or Treble): To adjust bass, midrange, or treble, press the tune knob until the tone control labels appear on the display. Continue pressing to highlight the desired label, or press the pushbutton positioned under the desired label. Turn the tune knob clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust the highlighted setting.
Finding a Category (CAT) Station CAT (Category): The CAT button is used to find XM™ stations when the radio is in the XM™ mode. To find XM™ channels within a desired category, perform the following: 1. Press the BAND button until the XM™ frequency is displayed. Press the CAT button to display the category labels on the radio display. Continue pressing the CAT button until the desired category name is displayed. 2.
XM™ Radio Messages Radio Display Message Condition Action Required XL (Explicit Language Channels) XL on the radio display, after the channel name, indicates content with explicit language. These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696). XM Updating Updating encryption code The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and no action is required. This process should take no longer than 30 seconds.
XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d) Radio Display Message Condition Action Required No CAT Info Category Name not available No category information is available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. No Information No Text/Informational message available No text or informational messages are available at this time on this channel. The system is working properly. CAT Not Found No channel available for the chosen category There are no channels available for the selected category.
Playing a CD (Single CD Player) Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the CD should begin playing. Playing a CD(s) (Six-Disc CD Player) LOAD ^: Press this button to load CDs into the CD player. This CD player will hold up to six CDs. To insert one CD, do the following: 1. Press and release the load button. 2. Wait for the message to insert the disc. 3. Load a CD. Insert the CD partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull the CD in.
Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught in the CD player. If a CD is recorded on a personal computer and a description label is needed, try labeling the top of the recorded CD with a soft marker instead. Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert more than one CD into the slot at a time, or attempt to play scratched or damaged CDs, you could damage the CD player.
RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to the tracks in random, rather than sequential order, on one CD or all CDs in a six-disc CD player. To use random, do one of the following: • Press the CD/AUX button, or for a single CD player, insert a disc partway into the slot of the CD player. A RDM label will appear on display. To play the tracks from the single CD in random order, press the pushbutton positioned under the RDM label until Random Current Disc is displayed.
The CD player is able to read and play a maximum of 50 folders, 50 playlists, 10 sessions, and 255 files. Long file names, folder names, or playlist names may use more disc memory space than necessary. To conserve space on the disc, minimize the length of the file, folder or playlist names. You can also play an MP3 CD-R that was recorded using no file folders.
Order of Play Preprogrammed Playlists Tracks recorded to the CD-R will be played in the following order: • Play will begin from the first track in the first playlist and will continue sequentially through all tracks in each playlist. When the last track of the last playlist has been played, play will continue from the first track of the first playlist. • Play will begin from the first track in the first folder and will continue sequentially through all tracks in each folder.
If playing a CD-R, the sound quality may be reduced due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality of the music that has been recorded, and the way the CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is damaged, such as cracked, broken, or scratched, the CD will not play properly.
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button to reverse playback quickly within an MP3 file. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this button to resume playing the file. The elapsed time of the file will appear on the display. \ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this button to advance playback quickly within an MP3 file. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this button to resume playing the file. The elapsed time of the file will appear on the display.
To change from playback by artist to playback by album, press the pushbutton located below the Sort By label. From the sort screen, push one of the buttons below the album button. Press the pushbutton below the back label to return to the main music navigator screen. Now the album name is displayed on the second line between the arrows and songs from the current album will begin to play.
Listening to a Portable Audio Player Theft-Deterrent Feature To listen to a portable audio player such as an MP3 player or cassette player over the radio and speakers, use a cable to connect your portable audio player to the auxiliary input jack located on the radio faceplate. THEFTLOCK® is designed to discourage theft of your vehicle’s radio. The feature works automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
When a CD is playing, press the up or the down arrow to go to the next or previous track. g (Mute/Voice Recognition): Press and release this button to silence the system. Press and release this button again, to turn the sound on. If your vehicle has OnStar®, press and hold this button for longer than one second to interact with the OnStar system. See the OnStar® System on page 2-35 in this manual for more information.
Care of Your CDs Backglass Antenna Handle CDs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. The CD player scans the bottom surface of the disc. If the surface of a CD is damaged, such as cracked, broken, or scratched, the CD will not play properly or not at all. If the surface of a CD is soiled, take a soft, lint free cloth or dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution mixed with water, and clean it.
If you choose to add a cellular telephone to your vehicle, and the antenna needs to be attached to the glass, be sure that you do not damage the grid lines for the AM-FM antenna. There is enough space between the lines to attach a cellular telephone antenna without interfering with radio reception. Do not apply aftermarket glass tinting to the back glass. The metallic film in some tinting materials will interfere with or distort the incoming radio reception.
✍ NOTES 3-84
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ..........4-2 Defensive Driving ...........................................4-2 Drunken Driving .............................................4-3 Control of a Vehicle ........................................4-6 Braking .........................................................4-6 Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) .........................4-7 Braking in Emergencies ...................................4-9 Traction Control System (TCS) ..........
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 1-11. 4-2 {CAUTION: Defensive driving really means “Be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads, or expressways, it means “Always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes.
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It is 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: • • • • 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.
According to the American Medical Association, a 180 lb (82 kg) person who drinks three 12 ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4 ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of liquors like whiskey, gin, or vodka. BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision.
Control of a Vehicle 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. Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or ice, it is easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Your vehicle may have anti-lock brakes. ABS is an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent a braking skid. If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, this warning light on the instrument panel cluster will come on briefly when you start your vehicle. When you start your engine, or when you begin to drive away, your anti-lock brake system will check itself.
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. Remember: Anti-lock does not 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 will not have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
Braking in Emergencies Traction Control System (TCS) At some time, nearly every driver gets into a situation that requires hard braking. Your vehicle may have a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the front wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction.
The traction control system operates in all transaxle shift lever positions. But the system can upshift the transaxle only as high as the shift lever position you’ve chosen, so you should use the lower gears only when necessary. See Automatic Transaxle Operation on page 2-24. When the system is on, this warning light will come on and stay on to let you know if there’s a problem. A SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL message will also appear on the DIC.
Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here is why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves.
Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking — if you can stop in time. But sometimes you cannot; there is not room. That is the time for evasive action — steering around the problem.
Off-Road Recovery Passing You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you are driving. 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.
• Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you are awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you are following a larger vehicle. Also, you will not have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. • When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and do not get too close.
Loss of Control Let us review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems — brakes, steering, and acceleration — do not have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired — by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving. • Drive defensively. • Do not drink and drive. • Adjust the inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. • Since you cannot see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road, and even people walking. It is wise to keep your windshield wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer fluid reservoir filled with washer fluid.
Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. Hydroplaning does not 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.
City Driving Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: • 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. • Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You will save time and energy. See Freeway Driving on page 4-20. • Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it.
Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways — also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes, or superhighways — are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane.
Before Leaving on a Long Trip Highway Hypnosis Make sure you are ready. Try to be well rested. If you must start when you are not fresh — such as after a day’s work — do not plan to make too many miles that first part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily drive in. Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced and maintained, it is ready to go. If it needs service, have it done before starting out.
Hill and Mountain Roads If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you are planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. • Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system, and transaxle. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. {CAUTION: If you do not shift down, your brakes could get so hot that they would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill.
• Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane {CAUTION: 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 would not work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill. roads in hills or mountains. Do not swing wide or cut across the center of the road.
Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: • Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. • You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. Also see Tires on page 5-54. 4-24 Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth, and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where the tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between the tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You will have a lot less traction, or grip, and will need to be very careful. What is 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.
Remember, unless you have ABS, if you brake so hard that your wheels stop rolling, you will just slide. Brake so your wheels always keep rolling and you can still steer. • Whatever your braking system, allow greater following distance on any slippery road. • Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that is covered with ice.
{CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You cannot see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow does not collect there. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes.
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out Loading Your Vehicle First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. If your vehicle has traction control, you should turn your traction control system off. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9. Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible.
Tire and Loading Information Label The Tire and Loading Information label also lists the tire size of the original equipment tires (C) and the recommended cold tire inflation pressures (D). For more information on tires and inflation, see Tires on page 5-54 and Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-60. There is also important loading information on the Certification label.
4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be five 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400 − 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs). 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. 6.
Example 2 Item A B C Description Maximum Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Example 3 Total Item 1,000 lbs (453 kg) A 750 lbs (340 kg) B 250 lbs (113 kg) C Description Maximum Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = Subtract Occupant Weight 200 lbs (91 kg) × 5 = Available Cargo Weight = Total 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 1,000 lbs (453 kg) 0 lbs (0 kg) Refer to your vehicle’s tire and loading information label for specific inform
Certification Label Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. If the vehicle has a compact spare tire, do not carry more than 194 lbs (88 kg) in the trunk of your vehicle. If the vehicle has a full-size tire, do not carry more than 141 lbs (64 kg) in the trunk of your vehicle. {CAUTION: A vehicle specific Certification label is found on the rear edge of the driver’s door.
If things like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else are put inside the vehicle, they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they will keep going. {CAUTION: Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. • Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a trunk, put them as far forward as you can. Try to spread the weight evenly.
Here are some important things to consider before you do recreational vehicle towing: Dolly Towing • What’s the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. • How far will you tow? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow. • Do you have the proper towing equipment? See your dealer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations.
Towing a Trailer {CAUTION: If you do not use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well — or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. You may also damage your vehicle; the resulting repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section.
• Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 1,000 miles (1 600 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. • Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. • Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer.
Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too.
Hitches Trailer Brakes It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: • The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to it. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper.
Driving with a Trailer Passing Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer.
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need additional wiring. Check with your dealer. The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out.
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: • start your engine, • shift into a gear, and • release the parking brake. 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks. Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this.
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Service ............................................................5-3 Accessories and Modifications ..........................5-3 California Proposition 65 Warning .....................5-3 Doing Your Own Service Work .........................5-4 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle ..............................................5-4 Fuel ................................................................5-4 Gasoline Octane .....................................
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Tires ..............................................................5-54 Tire Sidewall Labeling ...................................5-55 Tire Terminology and Definitions .....................5-57 Inflation - Tire Pressure .................................5-60 Tire Pressure Monitor System .........................5-61 Tire Inspection and Rotation ...........................5-64 When It Is Time for New Tires .......................5-65 Buying New Tires ..................
Service Accessories and Modifications Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people.
Doing Your Own Service Work {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. • Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. • 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.
Gasoline Octane Gasoline Specifications If your vehicle has a V6 engine, use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 87 or higher. If the octane rating is less than 87, you may notice an audible knocking noise when you drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible. If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service.
Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system to work properly. In most cases, you should not have to add anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
Only vehicles that have the 3.5L V6 engine (VIN Code K) may use 85% ethanol fuel (E85). General Motors encourages the use of E85 in vehicles that are designed to use it. The ethanol in E85 is a “renewable” fuel, meaning it is made from renewable sources such as corn and other crops. E85 has less energy per gallon than gasoline, so you will need to refill your fuel tank more often when using E85 than when you are using gasoline. Regular unleaded gasoline is recommended when pulling a trailer.
Filling the Tank {CAUTION: Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel fire can cause bad injuries. To help avoid injuries to you and others, read and follow all the instructions on the pump island. Turn off your engine when you are refueling. Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel pump unattended when refueling your vehicle — this is against the law in some places.
{CAUTION: If you spill fuel and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overfill the tank and wait a few seconds after you have finished pumping before removing the nozzle.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container Checking Things Under the Hood {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: • Dispense gasoline only into approved containers. • Do not fill a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than the ground.
Hood Release To open the hood, do the following: 1. Pull the interior hood release handle with this symbol on it. It is located to the left of the parking brake pedal. 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood latch, located near the center of the hood front, by pushing the latch to the right. 3. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then pull the hood down and close it firmly.
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 3.
A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer Fluid” under Windshield Washer Fluid on page 5-39. B. Battery. See Battery on page 5-42. C. Underhood Fuse Block. See Underhood Fuse Block on page 5-94. D. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. See Jump Starting on page 5-43. E. Coolant Recovery Tank. See “Checking Coolant” under Cooling System on page 5-31. F. Pressure Cap. See Pressure Cap on page 5-28. G. Power Steering Fluid Cap. See Power Steering Fluid on page 5-38. H. Engine Oil Fill Cap.
When you open the hood on the 3.
A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer Fluid” under Windshield Washer Fluid on page 5-39. B. Battery. See Battery on page 5-42. C. Underhood Fuse Block. See Underhood Fuse Block on page 5-94. D. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. See Jump Starting on page 5-43. E. Coolant Recovery Tank. See “Checking Coolant” under Cooling System on page 5-31. F. Pressure Cap. See Pressure Cap on page 5-28. G. Power Steering Fluid Cap. See Power Steering Fluid on page 5-38. H. Engine Oil Fill Cap.
When you open the hood on the 5.
A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer Fluid” under Windshield Washer Fluid on page 5-39. B. Battery. See Battery on page 5-42. C. Underhood Fuse Block. See Underhood Fuse Block on page 5-94. D. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. See Jump Starting on page 5-43. E. Pressure Cap. See Pressure Cap on page 5-28. F. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See Power Steering Fluid on page 5-38. G. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 5-17. H. Engine Oil Fill Cap.
When to Add Engine Oil Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for the location of the engine oil fill cap. V6 Engine Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range in the cross-hatched area. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through.
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use 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).
If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), it is recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection for your engine at extremely low temperatures. Engine Oil Additives Do not add anything to your oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard GM6094M are all you will need for good performance and engine protection.
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change your engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. Anytime your oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change your oil prior to a CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message being turned on, reset the system. After changing the engine oil, the system must be reset. To reset the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message, do the following procedures: 1.
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter do the following: Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the Maintenance II intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 50,000 mile (83 000 km) interval. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4 for more information. If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid {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 helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. If it is not there and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/filter off. Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: • • • • When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C).
How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. V6 Engines 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It does not take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Do not overfill.
Engine Coolant What to Use The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for five years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOL® extended life coolant. The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating or if you need to add coolant to the radiator, see Engine Overheating on page 5-29.
Notice: If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost would not be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Checking Coolant The coolant recovery tank cap has this symbol on it. If coolant needs to be added more than four times a year, have your dealer check the cooling system.
Adding Coolant If more coolant is needed, add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it. If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, add coolant to the radiator. See Engine Overheating on page 5-29. {CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator.
Engine Overheating There is a coolant temperature gage and a warning light on the instrument panel that indicate an overheated engine condition. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 3-33 and Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light on page 3-32. In addition, you will find an ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE and an ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE message displayed on the vehicle’s Driver Information Center (DIC). See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-45 for more information.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine An overheat warning can indicate a serious problem. If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: • Climb a long hill on a hot day. • Stop after high-speed driving. • Idle for long periods in traffic. • Tow a trailer. If an overheat warning occurs without any sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1.
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode This emergency operating mode allows your vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, you will notice a significant loss in power and engine performance. The coolant temperature gage will indicate an overheat condition exists.
{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 recovery tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be parked on a level surface. 5.3L V8 Engine A. Pressure Cap B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans C.
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the cold fill line on the coolant recovery tank. To check the coolant level, look for the cold fill line on the side of the coolant recovery tank that faces the engine. If the level is not correct, there may be a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system. {CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank {CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as 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 would not get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned.
1. You can remove the pressure cap when the cooling system, including the pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the cap slowly counterclockwise. {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 radiator pressure cap — even a little — they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot.
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. See Engine Coolant on page 5-26 for more information about the proper coolant mixture. 4. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the engine and the compartment. 6. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the pressure cap off. 7. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. 8.
How to Add Coolant to the Cooling System (5.3L V8 Engine) Notice: Your engine has a specific cooling system drain and fill procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged. If your engine’s cooling system needs to be drained and re-filled, please see your dealer. 1. You can remove the pressure cap when the cooling system, including the pressure cap and upper radiator hose is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise.
Power Steering Fluid The power steering fluid reservoir is located toward the rear of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for reservoir location. When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
Windshield Washer Fluid Notice: • When using concentrated washer fluid, What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for the location of the reservoir. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir. {CAUTION: 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. Always use the proper brake fluid. Notice: • Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque specifications. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.
Vehicle Storage If you are 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. {CAUTION: Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See Jump Starting on page 5-43 for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you do not want. You would not 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: {CAUTION: An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. (Continued) If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you do not, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.
5. Check that the jumper cables do not have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (−) will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one.
Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal. To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the vehicle that had the dead battery. 2.
Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 5-52. Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker, and Parking Lamps For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. Halogen Bulbs {CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. A. B. C. D.
2. Remove the screw from the headlamp assembly. 3. Remove the headlamp plastic retainer by pulling it up. 4. Pull the headlamp assembly away from the vehicle and remove the electrical connector. 5. Remove the round dust caps to gain access to the bulbs. 6. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise and remove it from the retaining ring by pulling it away from the headlamp.
7. Remove the electrical connector from the bulb by raising the lock tab and pulling the connector away from the bulb’s base. Taillamps, Turn Signal, Sidemarker, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps 8. Install the electrical connector to the bulb. 9. Install the new bulb by inserting the smallest tab on the bulb base into the matching notch in the retaining ring. Turn the bulb a quarter-turn clockwise until it stops. 10. Reverse Steps 1 through 5 to reinstall the headlamp assembly. A. Rear Sidemarker B.
3. Remove the two upper (convenience net) wing nuts. 4. Pull the carpet away from the rear of the vehicle. 5. Remove the two remaining hex nuts. 6. Pull out the taillamp assembly and disconnect the wiring harness. 7. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it. 8. Replace with a new bulb. 9. Turn the bulb socket clockwise to reinstall. 10. Reverse Steps 1 through 6 to reinstall the taillamp assembly.
Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamp Back-Up Front Parking/Turn Signal Headlamps High-Beam Low-Beam Sidemarker Stoplamp, Taillamp, and Turn Signal Bulb Number 921 3157 Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. Here’s how to remove the wiper blade: 1. Pull the windshield wiper arm connector away from the windshield. H9 H11 194 3057 For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your dealer.
To remove and replace the wiper blade element do the following: 1. The wiper blade element has two notches at one end which are engaged by the bottom claw set of the wiper blade. At the notched end of the wiper blade, pull the wiper blade element from the wiper blade assembly. 2. To replace the element, start at the heel end of the wiper blade, which is the end nearest to the base of the wiper arm, and slide the wiper blade element, notched end last, into the wiper blade claw sets. 3.
Tires CAUTION: 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 GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet included with your vehicle’s Owner Manual. • Underinflated tires pose the same {CAUTION: • Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
Tire Sidewall Labeling Useful information about a tire is molded into its sidewall. The examples below show a typical passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall. (B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Specification): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall. GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines.
(B) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (C) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following the DOT (Department of Transportation) code is the Tire Identification Number (TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may have the date of manufacture.
Tire Size The following illustration shows an example of a typical passenger vehicle tire size. (D) Construction Code: A letter code is used to indicate the type of ply construction in the tire. The letter R means radial ply construction; the letter D means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the letter B means belted-bias ply construction. (E) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches. (A) Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: The United States version of a metric tire sizing system.
Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords that is located between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made from steel or other reinforcing materials. Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim. Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions. Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on the other sidewall of the tire. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose vehicles.
Inflation - Tire Pressure Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate effectively. Notice: Do not let anyone tell you that under-inflation or over-inflation is all right. It is not. If your tires do not have enough air (under-inflation), you can get the following: • • • • • • Premature or irregular wear For additional information regarding how much weight your vehicle can carry, and an example of the tire and loading information label, see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-29.
How to Check Tire Pressure Monitor System Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You cannot tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they are under-inflated. Check the tire’s inflation pressure when the tires are cold. Cold means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km). Your vehicle has a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
When a low tire pressure condition is detected, the TPMS will illuminate the low tire pressure warning symbol on the instrument panel cluster, and at the same time a message to check the pressure in a specific tire will appear in the Driver Information Center (DIC) display. The low tire pressure warning symbol on the instrument panel cluster and the check tire pressure message will appear at each ignition cycle until the tires are inflated to the correct inflation pressure.
You will have two minutes to match the first tire/wheel position, and five minutes overall, to match all four tire/wheel positions. If it takes longer than two minutes, to match the first tire and wheel, or more than five minutes to match all four tire and wheel positions, the matching process stops and you will need to start over. The TPMS matching process is outlined below: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition switch to ACCESSORY with the engine off. 3.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry and Science Canada The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation is the most important. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4 for scheduled rotation intervals. The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) operates on a radio frequency and complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with RSS-210 of Industry and Science Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1.
Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and Specifications on page 5-97. When It Is Time for New Tires One way to tell when it is 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: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident.
Buying New Tires GM has developed and matched specific tires for your vehicle. The original equipment tires installed on your vehicle, when it was new, were designed to meet General Motors Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) system rating. If you need replacement tires, GM strongly recommends that you get tires with the same TPC Spec rating.
If you must replace your vehicle’s tires with those that do not have a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction type (radial and bias-belted tires) as your vehicle’s original tires. Vehicles that have a tire pressure monitoring system may give an inaccurate low-pressure warning if non-TPC Spec rated tires are installed on your vehicle.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
Temperature – A, B, C Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for your vehicle. {CAUTION: Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous.
Tire Chains {CAUTION: If your vehicle has P225/55R17 or P235/50R18 size tires, do not use tire chains, there is not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension, or other vehicle parts. The area damaged by the tire chains could cause you to lose control of your vehicle and you or others may be injured in a crash.
Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible. {CAUTION: Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. The jack provided with your vehicle is designed only for changing a flat tire.
When your vehicle has a flat tire, use the following example as a guide to assist you in the placement of wheel blocks. Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you will need is located in the trunk. 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2-13 for more information. 2. Remove the convenience net if the vehicle has one. The following information will tell you next how to use the jack and change a tire. 3. Lift the handle on the spare tire cover.
4. Turn the wing nut counterclockwise and remove it. 5. Remove the compact spare tire. 5-74 6. Turn the nut holding the jack counterclockwise and remove it. Then remove the jack and wrench.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire Your vehicle may have aluminum wheels. If so, you will see exposed stainless steel wheel nuts. Use the wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts. Do not remove them yet. Or, your vehicle may have steel wheel covers. The tools you will need to change a tire include the jack (A), extension and protection guide (B), and wheel wrench (C).
Use the flat end of the wheel wrench and pry along the edge of the cover until it comes off. The edge of the wheel cover could be sharp, so do not try to remove it with your bare hands. Do not drop the cover or lay it face down, as it could become scratched or damaged. Once you have removed the wheel cover, use the following procedure to remove the flat tire and install the spare tire. 1. Turn the wheel wrench once on each wheel nut to loosen them. Do not remove them yet. 2.
{CAUTION: {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. Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. The jack provided with your vehicle is designed only for changing a flat tire.
5. Remove all wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. {CAUTION: 4. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground for the compact spare tire to fit underneath the wheel well of the vehicle. 5-78 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.
6. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. 8. Reinstall the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. 7. Install the compact spare tire. {CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident.
{CAUTION: 9. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification.
10. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools {CAUTION: Notice: Wheel covers will not fit on your compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare. Do not try to put the wheel cover on your compact spare tire. It will not fit. Store the wheel cover in the trunk until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
To store a full-size tire, do the following: 1. Install the tools in their original location in the trunk area and secure. 2. Place the tire valve stem facing down and the protector/guide placed through a wheel bolt hole. 3. Remove the protector and attach the retainer securely 4. Store the cover as far forward as possible. When storing a compact spare tire in the trunk, put the protector back in the foam holder. The compact spare is for temporary use only.
Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.
When cleaning your vehicle’s interior, only use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned. Permanent damage may result from using cleaners on surfaces for which they were not intended. Use glass cleaner only on glass. Remove any accidental over-spray from other surfaces immediately. To prevent over-spray, apply cleaner directly to the cleaning cloth.
Fabric/Carpet Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment frequently to remove dust and loose dirt. A canister vacuum with a beater bar in the nozzle may only be used on floor carpet and carpeted floor mats. For soils, always try to remove them first with plain water or club soda. Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as possible using one of the following techniques: If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric cleaner or spot lifter may be necessary.
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary, a clean soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be used to gently remove dust and dirt. Never use spot lifters or removers on plastic surfaces. Many commercial cleaners and coatings that are sold to preserve and protect soft plastic surfaces may permanently change the appearance and feel of your interior and are not recommended.
Do not wash the vehicle in the direct rays of the sun. Use a car washing soap. Do not use strong soaps or chemical detergents. Be sure to rinse the vehicle well, removing all soap residue completely. GM-approved cleaning products can be obtained from your dealer. See Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials on page 5-90. Do not 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.
Clean the outside of the windshield with a glass cleaning liquid or powder and water solution. The windshield is clean if beads do not form when it is rinsed with water. Notice: Using chrome polish on aluminum wheels could damage the wheels. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Use chrome polish on chrome wheels only. Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades and affect their performance.
Tires Underbody Maintenance To clean the tires, use a stiff brush with tire cleaner. Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, corrosion and rust can develop on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan, and exhaust system even though they have corrosion protection. Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing products on your vehicle may damage the paint finish and/or tires.
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Description Polishing Cloth Wax-Treated Tar and Road Oil Remover Chrome Cleaner and Polish White Sidewall Tire Cleaner Vinyl Cleaner Glass Cleaner Chrome and Wire Wheel Cleaner Finish Enhancer 5-90 Usage Interior and exterior polishing cloth. Removes tar, road oil, and asphalt. Use on chrome or stainless steel. Removes soil and black marks from whitewalls. Cleans vinyl. Removes dirt, grime, smoke and fingerprints.
Vehicle Identification Engine Identification Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) The eighth character in the VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your vehicle’s engine, specifications, and replacement parts. Service Parts Identification Label You will find this label in the trunk. It is very helpful if you ever need to order parts. On this label, you will find the following: This is the legal identifier for your vehicle.
Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment Notice: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should. Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-67.
Instrument Panel Fuse Block The fuse block is located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle under the instrument panel.
Underhood Fuse Block The underhood fuse block is located in the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location.
Fuses Usage Fuses Usage LT PARK Driver’s Side Parking Lamp RADIO Audio System RT PARK Passenger’s Side Parking Lamp FOG LAMPS Fog Lamps SPARE Spare SPARE Spare SPARE Spare WSW Windshield Wiper AIRBAG/ DISPLAY Airbag, Display HTD MIR Heated Mirror SPARE Spare TRANS Transaxle INT LIGHTS Interior Lamps ECM IGN Engine Control Module, Ignition RT T/SIG Passenger’s Side Turn Signal INT LTS/ PNL DIM Interior Lamps, Instrument Panel Dimmer LT T/SIG Driver’s Side Turn Signal A/C
Fuses Usage Relay Usage INJ 2 Injector 2 FAN 1 Cooling Fan 1 EMISSIONS 2 Emissions 2 FAN 1 Cooling Fan 1 RT SPOT Right Spot BATT 4 Battery 4 LT SPOT Left Spot STRTR Starter HDLP MDL Headlamp Module ABS MTR1 Anti-lock Brake System Motor 1 DRL 2 Daytime Running Lamps 2 BATT 3 Battery 3 FUEL/PUMP Fuel Pump FAN 2 Cooling Fan 2 WPR Wiper BATT 1 Battery 1 LT LO BEAM Driver’s Side Low Beam ABS MTR2 Anti-lock Brake System Motor 2 RT LO BEAM Passenger’s Side Low Beam BATT 2
Capacities and Specifications The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12 for more information. Application Capacities English 7.6 qt Metric Automatic Transaxle 7.2 L When draining/replacing converter, more fluid may be needed. Cooling System Including Reservoir 3.5L V6 Engine 12.2 qt 11.6 L 3.5L Flexible Fuel V6 Engine 12.2 qt 11.6 L 3.9L V6 Engine 12.2 qt 11.6 L 5.3L V8 Engine 12.8 qt 12.
Engine Specifications 5-98 Engine VIN Code Transaxle Spark Plug Gap 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) 3.5L V6 N Automatic 3.5L Flexible Fuel V6 K Automatic 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) 3.9L V6 1 Automatic 0.040 inches (1.01 mm) 5.3L V8 C Automatic 0.040 inches (1.
Section 6 Maintenance Schedule Maintenance Schedule ......................................6-2 Introduction ...................................................6-2 Maintenance Requirements ..............................6-2 Your Vehicle and the Environment ....................6-2 Using the Maintenance Schedule ......................6-2 Scheduled Maintenance ...................................6-4 Additional Required Services ............................6-6 Maintenance Footnotes ...............................
Maintenance Schedule Introduction Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and change as recommended. Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance is 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.
This schedule is for vehicles that: • carry passengers and cargo within recommended limits. You will find these limits on the tire and loading information label. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-29. • are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legal driving limits. • use the recommended fuel. See Gasoline Octane on page 5-5. The services in Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4 should be performed when indicated.
Scheduled Maintenance When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on, it means that service is required for your vehicle. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the engine oil life system may not indicate that vehicle service is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and filter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset.
Scheduled Maintenance Service Maintenance I Maintenance II Change engine oil and filter. See Engine Oil on page 5-17. Reset oil life system. See Engine Oil Life System on page 5-20. An Emission Control Service. • • Visually check for any leaks or damage. See footnote (k). • • Inspect engine air cleaner filter. If necessary, replace filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-21. See footnote (m). • Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear.
Additional Required Services The following services should be performed at the first maintenance service (I or II) after the indicated miles (kilometers) shown for each item. Additional Required Services Service and Miles (Kilometers) 25,000 (41 500) 50,000 (83 000) 75,000 (125 000) 100,000 (166 000) 125,000 (207 500) 150,000 (240 000) Inspect fuel system for damage or leaks. • • • • • • Inspect exhaust system for loose or damaged components.
Maintenance Footnotes † The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the California Air Resources Board has determined that the failure to perform this maintenance item will not nullify the emission warranty or limit recall liability prior to the completion of the vehicle’s useful life. We, however, urge that all recommended maintenance services be performed at the indicated intervals and the maintenance be recorded.
(h) Change automatic transaxle 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. − When doing frequent trailer towing. − Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery service. (i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service can be complex; you should have your dealer perform this service.
Engine Coolant Level Check At Least Once a Year Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL® coolant mixture if necessary. See Engine Coolant on page 5-26 for further details. Starter Switch Check Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield washer fluid reservoir and add the proper fluid if necessary. At Least Once a Month {CAUTION: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly.
Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock Control System Check {CAUTION: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 3. With the engine off, turn the ignition to RUN, but do not start the engine. Without applying the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of PARK (P) with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out of PARK (P), contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer for service.
Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle Park (P) Mechanism Check Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. • To check the parking brake’s holding ability: With {CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of your vehicle in case it begins to roll.
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number, or specification may be obtained from your dealer. Usage Fluid/Lubricant Engine oil which meets GM Standard GM6094M and displays the American Petroleum Institute Certified for Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. GM Engine Oil Goodwrench® oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. To determine the proper viscosity for your vehicle’s engine, see Engine Oil on page 5-17.
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your GM dealer. Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts GM Part Number AC Delco Part Number Automatic Transaxle Filter 24224522 — Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 10350737 — 3.5L V6 Engine and 3.9L V6 Engine 89017342 PF61 3.5L Flexible Fuel V6 Engine 89017342 PF61 5.
Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the type of services performed in the boxes provided. See Maintenance Requirements on page 6-2. Any additional information from Owner Checks and Services on page 6-8 can be added on the following record pages. You should retain all maintenance receipts.
Maintenance Record (cont’d) Date Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed 6-15
Maintenance Record (cont’d) Date 6-16 Odometer Reading Serviced By Maintenance I or Maintenance II Services Performed
Section 7 Customer Assistance and Information Customer Assistance and Information ...............7-2 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ......................7-2 Online Owner Center ......................................7-3 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ................................7-4 Customer Assistance Offices ............................7-4 GM Mobility Reimbursement Program ................7-5 Roadside Assistance Program ..........................7-6 Courtesy Transportation ......
Customer Assistance and Information 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.
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.
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs), Chevrolet has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with Chevrolet by dialing: 1-800-833-CHEV (2438). (TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) Customer Assistance Offices Chevrolet encourages customers to call the toll-free number for assistance. If a U.S.
Overseas — Customer Assistance Please contact the local General Motors Business Unit. GM Mobility Reimbursement Program Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) — Customer Assistance General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Customer Assistance Center Paseo de la Reforma # 2740 Col. Lomas de Bezares C.P. 11910, Mexico, D.F.
Roadside Assistance Program As the owner of a new Chevrolet vehicle, you are automatically enrolled in the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance program. This value-added service is intended to provide you with peace of mind as you drive in the city or travel the open road. Call Chevrolet’s Roadside Assistance at 1-800-CHEV-USA, (1-800-243-8872) 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to speak with a Chevrolet Roadside Assistance representative.
While we hope you never have the occasion to use our service, it is added security while traveling for you and your family. Remember, we are only a phone call away. Chevrolet Roadside Assistance: 1-800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872), text telephone (TTY) users, call 1-888-889-2438. Courtesy Transportation Chevrolet reserves the right to limit services or reimbursement to an owner or driver when, in Chevrolet’s judgement, the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence.
Transportation Options Courtesy Rental Vehicle Warranty service can generally be completed while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait, GM helps to minimize your inconvenience by providing several transportation options. Depending on the circumstances, your dealer can offer you one of the following: Your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle that you obtain if your vehicle is kept for a warranty repair.
Additional Program Information Courtesy Transportation is available during the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period, but it is not part of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. A separate booklet entitled Warranty and Owner Assistance Information furnished with each new vehicle provides detailed warranty coverage information. Courtesy Transportation is available only at participating dealers and all program options, such as shuttle service, may not be available at every dealer.
To read this information, special equipment is needed and access to the vehicle or the device that stores the data is required. GM will not access information about a crash event or share it with others other than: • with the consent of the vehicle owner or, if the vehicle is leased, with the consent of the lessee, • in response to an official request of police or similar government office, • as part of GM’s defense of litigation through the discovery process, or • as required by law.
Aftermarket collision parts are also available. These are made by companies other than GM and may not have been tested for your vehicle. As a result, these parts may fit poorly, exhibit premature durability/corrosion problems, and may not perform properly in subsequent collisions. Aftermarket parts are not covered by your GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any vehicle failure related to such parts are not covered by that warranty.
If an Accident Occurs Here is what to do if you are involved in an accident. • Try to relax and then check to make sure you are all right. If you are uninjured, make sure that no one else in your vehicle, or the other vehicle, is injured. • If there has been an injury, call 911 for help. Do not leave the scene of an accident until all matters have been taken care of. Move your vehicle only if its position puts you in danger or you are instructed to move it by a police officer.
• Choose a reputable collision repair facility for your vehicle. Whether you select a GM dealer or a private collision repair facility to fix the damage, make sure you are comfortable with them. Remember, you will have to feel comfortable with their work for a long time. • Once you have an estimate, read it carefully and make sure you understand what work will be performed on your vehicle. If you have a question, ask for an explanation. Reputable shops welcome this opportunity.
Reporting Safety Defects 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.
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 Service Bulletins Service Bulletins give technical service information needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle.
Current and Past Model Order Forms Service Publications are available for current and past model GM vehicles. To request an order form, please specify year and model name of the vehicle. ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123 Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Eastern Time For Credit Card Orders Only (VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit Helm, Inc. on the World Wide Web at: www.helminc.com 7-16 Or you can write to: Helm, Incorporated P.O.
A Accessories and Modifications ............................ 5-3 Accessory Power Outlet(s) ............................... 3-17 Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ....................................................... 1-68 Additives, Fuel ................................................. 5-6 Add-On Electrical Equipment ............................ 5-92 Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine ................................. 5-21 Air Conditioning ..............................................
Audio System(s) (cont.) Setting the Time .......................................... Theft-Deterrent Feature ................................ Understanding Radio Reception ..................... XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ............ Automatic Door Lock ....................................... Automatic Transaxle Fluid .......................................................... Operation ................................................... 3-60 3-80 3-81 3-83 2-11 5-23 2-24 B Backglass Antenna .......
Check Engine Light ............................................... Checking Things Under the Hood ...................... Chemical Paint Spotting ................................... Child Restraints Child Restraint Systems ............................... Infants and Young Children ........................... Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children .......... Older Children ............................................. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position .........................................
Customer Assistance Information Courtesy Transportation .................................. 7-7 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ............................... 7-4 Customer Assistance Offices ........................... 7-4 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ..................... 7-2 GM Mobility Reimbursement Program ............... 7-5 Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors ....... 7-14 Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government ..............................
E Eight-Way Power Seats ..................................... 1-3 Electrical System Add-On Equipment ...................................... 5-92 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ........................... 5-92 Headlamp Wiring ......................................... 5-92 Instrument Panel Fuse Block ......................... 5-93 Power Windows and Other Power Options ......... 5-92 Underhood Fuse Block ................................. 5-94 Windshield Wiper Fuses ...............................
Fuel (cont.) Filling Your Tank ........................................... 5-8 Fuels in Foreign Countries .............................. 5-7 Gage ......................................................... 3-38 Gasoline Octane ........................................... 5-5 Gasoline Specifications .................................. 5-5 Fuses Fuses and Circuit Breakers ........................... 5-92 Instrument Panel Fuse Block ......................... 5-93 Underhood Fuse Block ..............................
I Ignition Positions ............................................. 2-21 Infants and Young Children, Restraints ............... 1-35 Inflation -- Tire Pressure .................................. 5-60 Instrument Panel Overview ..................................................... 3-4 Instrument Panel (I/P) Brightness .................................................. 3-15 Cluster ....................................................... 3-25 J Jump Starting .................................................
Loading Your Vehicle ....................................... 4-29 Lockout Protection .......................................... 2-13 Locks Automatic Door Lock .................................... 2-11 Door .......................................................... 2-10 Lockout Protection ....................................... 2-13 Power Door ................................................ 2-11 Programmable Automatic Door Unlock ............ 2-11 Rear Door Security Locks .............................
O Odometer ...................................................... 3-26 Off-Road Recovery .......................................... 4-13 Oil Engine ....................................................... 5-17 Pressure Light ............................................. 3-36 Oil, Engine Oil Life System .............................. 5-20 Older Children, Restraints ................................ 1-32 Online Owner Center ........................................ 7-3 OnStar® System, see OnStar® Manual ........
R Radios .......................................................... 3-58 Care of Your CD Player ............................... 3-82 Care of Your CDs ........................................ 3-82 Radio with CD .................................... 3-61, 3-65 Setting the Time .......................................... 3-60 Theft-Deterrent ............................................ 3-80 Understanding Reception .............................. 3-81 Reading Lamps ..............................................
Safety Belts (cont.) How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ................ 1-16 Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ........ 1-15 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ................... 1-29 Rear Seat Passengers ................................. 1-26 Right Front Passenger Position ...................... 1-24 Safety Belt Extender .................................... 1-31 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ................. 1-24 Safety Belts Are for Everyone .......................
Steering Wheel Controls, Audio ......................... 3-80 Steering Wheel, Tilt Wheel ................................. 3-6 Storage Areas Center Console Storage Area ........................ 2-42 Convenience Net ......................................... 2-42 Cupholder(s) ............................................... 2-41 Glove Box .................................................. 2-41 Rear Seat Armrest ....................................... 2-42 Rear Storage Area .....................................
Traction Control System (TCS) .................................... 4-9 Control System Warning Light ....................... 3-32 Transaxle Fluid, Automatic ........................................... 5-23 Transaxle Operation, Automatic ......................... 2-24 Trunk ............................................................ 2-13 Turn and Lane-Change Signals .......................... 3-7 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever ........................... 3-7 W U Understanding Radio Reception .............
Windshield Wiper Blades, Cleaning ................................ 5-87 Windshield Washer ........................................... 3-9 Fluid .......................................................... 5-39 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ...................................... 5-52 Fuses ........................................................ 5-92 Windshield Wipers ......................................... 3-8 Winter Driving ................................................