2007 Chevrolet Express Owner Manual M
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2007 Chevrolet Express Owner Manual M
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GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, and the name CHEVY EXPRESS are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation.
This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes after that time without further
notice. For vehicles ??rst sold in Canada, substitute the name ??General Motors of Canada Limited??
for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual.
This manual describes features that may be available in this model, but your vehicle may not have all of them. For example, more than one entertainment system may be offered or your vehicle may have been ordered without a front passenger or rear seats.
Keep this manual in the vehicle, so it will be there if it is needed while you are on the road. If the vehicle is sold, leave this manual in the vehicle
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
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How to Use This Manual
Many people read the owner manual from beginning to end when they ??rst receive their new vehicle. If this is done, it can help you learn about the features and controls for the vehicle. Pictures and words work together in the
owner manual to explain things.
Index
A good place to quickly locate information about the vehicle is the Index in the back of the manual. It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and the page number where it can be found.
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.
{CAUTION:
These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid
or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you do not, you or others could be hurt.
You will also ??nd 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.??
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Vehicle Damage Warnings
Also, in this manual you will ??nd these notices:
Notice: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.
A notice tells about something that can damage the vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your vehicle??s warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell what to do to help avoid the damage.
When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words.
There are also warning labels on the vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.
Vehicle Symbols
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 speci??c component, control, message, gage, or indicator.
If you need help ??guring out a speci??c name of a component, gage, or indicator, reference
the following topics:
??Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1
??Features and Controls in Section 2
??Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3
??Climate Controls in Section 3
??Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators in Section 3
??Audio System(s) in Section 3
??Engine Compartment Overview in Section 5
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These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle:
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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
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Front Seats
Manual Seats
{CAUTION:
You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver???s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver???s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.
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.
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If your vehicle has front power seat(s), you can adjust them with these controls located at the front center of the seat cushion.
To raise or lower the seat, move the center knob up or down. To move the seat forward or rearward, move the center knob toward the right or left.
To raise or lower the front of the seat cushion, move the right lever up or down. To raise or lower the rear of the seat cushion, move the left lever up or down.
{CAUTION:
You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver???s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you do not want to. Adjust the driver???s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.
{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.
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The seats have manual reclining seatbacks. The lever used to operate them is located on the inboard side of the seats.
To recline the seatback, do the following:
1.Lift the recline lever.
2.Move the seatback to the desired position, then release the lever to lock the seatback in place.
3.Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
To return the seatback to an upright position, do the following:
1.Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to the seatback and the seatback will return to the upright position.
2.Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is locked.
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{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. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.
For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.
Do not have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
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Rear Seats
Rear Seat Operation
Removing the Rear Seat
Disconnect the quick release latch plates for the
1. To do this, press the tip of a key into the release hole of the safety belt buckle while pulling up on the safety belt.
2.Locate the pins. There are two pins located on the inboard sides of the rear seats. If the vehicle has ??oor mats, the pins will be located under a ??ap that has been cut into the mat.
??The driver??s side pin has a gray cap with a black ??L?? marked on it.
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??The passenger??s side pin has a black cap with a white ??R?? marked on it.
3.Pull the pin handle up to disengage the pin from the retaining clip, then pull the pin out.
4.Repeat this procedure for the pin on the other seat base.
5.Pull the seat rearward about 2 inches (5 cm) and then lift the seat from the ??oor rails.
6.Remove the seat from the vehicle.
7. For the ??rst row rear seat, stow the safety belt latch by attaching the clip on the safety belt latch to the trim just inside the side door.
For the remaining rear seats, stow the safety belt latch plate on the clip at the window trim.
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Replacing the Rear Seats
{CAUTION:
A seat that is not locked into place properly can move around in a collision or sudden stop. People in the vehicle could be injured. Be sure to lock the seat into place properly when installing it.
{CAUTION:
A safety belt that is improperly routed, not properly attached, or twisted will not provide the protection needed in a crash. The person wearing the belt could be seriously injured. After raising the rear seatback, always check to be sure that the safety belts are properly routed and attached, and are not twisted.
1.Position the seat into the open slots in both rails. Push the seat forward in the rail, hooking both seat bases onto the pins inside of the rails.
2.To install the locking pins at the rear of the seat base, locate the hole in the rail for the pin. It is found on the inboard side of the seat. If the vehicle has ??oor mats, pull the ??ap
that has been cut into the mat.
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3.Insert the locking pin into the seat base and push the seat to line up with the pin with the base. The pin with the black cap marked ??R?? must be installed on the passenger??s side and the pin with the gray cap marked ??L?? on the driver??s side.
4.Push the pin with the black cap marked ??R?? down until it is in the retaining clip.
5.Push the pin with the gray cap marked ??L?? down until it is in the retaining clip.
6.If the vehicle has a ??oor mat, put the ??ap back to its original position.
7.Repeat this procedure for the other seat base.
8.Connect the
Do not twist the belt.
9.Check that all locking pins are locked into place before operating the vehicle.
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Safety Belts
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. In the same crash, you might not be, if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers??? belts are fastened properly too.
{CAUTION:
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.
Your vehicle has indicators to remind you and your passengers to buckle your safety belts. See Safety Belt Reminder Light on page 168 and Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light on page 169.
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In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here is why: They work.
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.
After more than 40 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter... a lot!
Why Safety Belts Work
When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.
Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a seat on wheels.
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The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...
or the instrument panel...
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or the safety belts!
With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That is why safety belts
make such good sense.
Questions and Answers About
Safety Belts
Q:
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 my vehicle has airbags, why should I have to wear safety belts?
A: Airbags are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts ?? not instead of them. Every airbag system ever offered
for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you are in a vehicle that has airbags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That is true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.
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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).
Safety belts are for everyone.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
This part is only for people of adult size.
Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there
are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see
Older Children on page 41 or Infants and Young Children on page 44. Follow those rules for everyone??s protection.
First, you will want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has.
We will start with the driver position.
Driver Position
The driver has a
1.Close and lock the door.
2.Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight. To see how, see ??Seats?? in the Index.
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3.Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Do not let it get twisted.
The
Then pull the belt across you more slowly.
4.Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough,
see Safety Belt Extender on page 40.
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.
5.Move the shoulder belt height adjuster to the height that is right for you. Improper shoulder belt height adjustment could reduce the effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash. See
Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment on page 31.
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6.To make the lap part tight, pull up on the shoulder belt.
It may be necessary to pull stitching on the safety belt through the latch plate to fully tighten the lap belt on smaller occupants.
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. The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop or crash.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It will not give nearly as much protection this way.
{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 ???t against your body.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
A: The lap belt is too loose. It will not give nearly as much protection this way.
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your lap belt is too loose. In a crash, you could slide under the lap belt and apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The lap belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
{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.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
A: The belt is over an armrest.
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm.
It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
{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.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
A: The belt is twisted across the body.
{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 ???x it.
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To unlatch the belt, 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.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment
Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt height adjuster to the height that is right for you.
Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion
of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but
not falling off your shoulder. Improper shoulder belt height adjustment could reduce the effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash.
To move it down, pull on the center adjuster control labeled PULL. You can move the height adjuster up just by pushing
up on the shoulder belt guide.
After you move the height adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without pushing in to make sure it has locked into position.
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Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they do not wear
safety belts.
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it is more likely that the fetus will not be hurt
in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.
A pregnant woman should wear a
Right Front Passenger Position
To learn how to wear the right front passenger??s safety belt properly, see Driver Position on page 22.
The right front passenger??s safety belt works the same way as the driver??s safety belt ?? except for the following.
If you ever pull the shoulder portion of the belt out all the way, you will engage the child restraint locking feature. If this happens, just let the belt go back all the way and start again.
When the safety belt is not in use, slide the latch plate up the safety belt webbing. The latch
plate should rest on the stitching on the safety belt, near the guide loop.
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Center Passenger Position (3rd, 4th and 5th Row)
Lap Belt
If your vehicle has third, fourth or ??fth row bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.
When you sit in a center seating position in the third, fourth or ??fth row, 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
on page 40.
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.
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Center Passenger Position
(2nd Row)
If your vehicle has a second row bench seat, someone can sit in the center position. When you sit in the center position in the second row bench seat, you have a
To learn how to wear a
Rear Outside Passenger Positions
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.
The positions next to the windows have
1.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.
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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 the belt go back all the way and start again.
If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 40.
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.
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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.
The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop or a crash.
{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 ???t against your body.
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To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle. For outboard seating positions, when the safety belt is not in use, slide the latch plate up the safety belt webbing. The latch plate should rest on the stitching on the safety belt, near the guide loop
on the side wall.
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. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide positions the belt away from
the neck and head.
There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seats. Here is how to install a comfort guide to the safety belt:
1.Locate the guide in a pocket on the side of the seatback.
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2.Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.
3.Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies ??at. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
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{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 Outside Passenger Positions on page 34. Make sure that
the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort guide, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guide. Slide the guide into
its storage pocket on the side of the seatback.
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Safety Belt Pretensioners
Your vehicle may safety belt pretensioners for the driver and right front passenger. Although you cannot see them, they are part of the safety belt assembly. They help tighten the safety belts during the early stages of a moderate to severe frontal or near frontal crash if the threshold conditions for pretensioner activation are met.
Pretensioners work only once. If they activate in a crash, you will need to get new ones,
and probably other new parts for your safety belt system. See Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash on page 99.
Safety Belt Extender
If the vehicle??s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it.
But if a safety belt is not long enough, your dealer will order you an extender. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. To help avoid personal injury, do not let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to ??t. The extender has been designed for adults. Never use it for securing child seats. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. For more information see the instruction sheet that comes with the extender.
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Child Restraints
Older Children
Older children who have outgrown booster seats should wear the vehicle??s safety belts.
If you have the choice, a child should sit in a seating position that has a
Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?
A: If possible, an older child should wear a
or neck. The lap belt should ??t 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.
According to accident statistics, children are safer when properly restrained in the rear seating positions than in the front seating positions.
In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike other people who are buckled up, or can be thrown out of the vehicle. Older children need
to use safety belts properly.
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{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
A: If the child is seated in a rear outside seat position, move the child toward the center of the vehicle. Also see Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides on page 37. If the child is sitting in the second row center seat position, move the child toward the safety belt
buckle. In either case, be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child??s shoulder, so that in a crash the child??s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child??s face or neck, you might want to place the child in a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.
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{CAUTION:
Never do this.
Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child??s thighs. This applies belt force to the child??s pelvic bones in a crash.
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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.
{CAUTION:
Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and the safety belt continues to tighten. Never leave children unattended in a vehicle and never allow children to play with the safety belts.
Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by appropriate restraints. Young children should not use the vehicle??s adult safety belts alone, unless there is no other choice. Instead, they need to use a child restraint.
{CAUTION:
People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby does not weigh much ??? until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph
(40 km/h), a 12 lb (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240 lb (110 kg) force on a person???s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint.
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CAUTION: (Continued)
vehicle???s safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide.
{CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it in???ates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Q: What are the different types of
A:
For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available. When purchasing a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards.
The restraint manufacturer??s instructions that come with the restraint state the weight and height limitations for a particular child restraint. In addition, there are many kinds of restraints available for children with special needs.
{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
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{CAUTION:
The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child???s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle???s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child???s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that is unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. Young children always should be secured in appropriate child 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 ??at surface. Make sure that the infant??s head rests toward the center of the vehicle.
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A
in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint.
A
or
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A booster seat
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
the vehicle??s owner. To help reduce injuries, an
child restraints, the child has to be secured within the child restraint.
When choosing an
be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may ??nd these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both.
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Securing an
the Vehicle
{CAUTION:
A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. Make
sure the child restraint is properly installed in the vehicle using the vehicle???s safety belt or LATCH system, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual.
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
See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54 for more information.
A child can be endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle.
When securing an
which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle ?? even when no child is in it.
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Securing the Child Within the Child
Restraint
There are several systems for securing the child within the child restraint. One system, the
{CAUTION:
A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Make sure the
child is properly secured, following the instructions that came with that restraint.
Because there are different systems, it is important to refer to the instructions that come with the restraint. A child can be endangered in a crash if the child is not properly secured in the child restraint.
Where to Put the Restraint
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat including an infant riding in a
the airbag off light shows off.
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If your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate a
so great, if the airbag deploys.
{CAUTION:
A child in a
is because the back of the
Even though the passenger sensing system or the airbag off switch is designed to turn off the right front passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
no system is
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. We recommend that
If you need to secure a
If your vehicle does not have a rear seat that will accommodate a
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{CAUTION:
A child in a
Even though the passenger sensing system or the airbag off switch is designed to turn off the right front passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
We recommend that
If you need to secure a
If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system or the airbag off switch and you need to secure a
on page 89, Airbag Off Switch on page 86, and Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (With Passenger Sensing System)
on page 68 or Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (With Airbag Off Switch) on page 72 for more on this, including important safety information.
53
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. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle ?? even when no child is in it.
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH)
The LATCH system holds a child restraint during driving or in a crash. This system is designed
to make installation of a child restraint easier. The LATCH system uses anchors in the vehicle and attachments on the child restraint that
are made for use with the LATCH system.
Make sure that a
the vehicle??s safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. When installing a child restraint with a top
tether, you must also use either the lower anchors or the safety belts to properly secure the child restraint. A child restraint must never be installed using only the top tether strap and anchor.
In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint that has LATCH attachments. The child restraint manufacturer will provide you with instructions on how to use
the child restraint and its attachments. The following explains how to attach a child restraint with these attachments in your vehicle.
Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints have lower anchors and attachments or top tether anchors and attachments.
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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. The top tether attachment (B)
on the child restraint connects to the top tether anchor in the vehicle in order to reduce the forward movement and rotation of the child restraint during driving or in a crash.
Your child restraint may have a single tether (A) or a dual tether (C). Either will have a single attachment (B) to secure the top tether to
the anchor.
55
Some child restraints that have a top tether 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
the United States, some child restraints also have a top tether. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint.
If the child restraint does not have a top tether, one can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is available.
Lower Anchor and Top Tether Anchor
Locations
i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors.
j (Lower Anchor): Seating positions with two lower anchors.
Second Row
See the information following for installing a child restraint with a top tether in the second row center position.
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Do not install three child restraints in the rear seat and never install two top tethers using the same top tether anchor.
i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors.
i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors.
Third and Fourth Row
with Three Passenger
Bench Seat
Front Passenger
Position
To assist you in locating the lower anchors, each seating position with lower anchors has
two labels, near the crease between the seatback and the seat cushion.
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There are two top tether anchors in the second row. To install a child restraint in the left outboard seating position, use anchor point (A). To install a child restraint in the right outboard seating position, use anchor point (B). To install a child restraint in the center seating position, use either anchor point (A) or (B). Never install two top tethers using the same top tether anchor.
There is a top tether anchor for the center seating positions in the third and fourth rows, if equipped, with a
is located at the bottom rear of the seat cushion.
Third or Fourth Row ??? Three Passenger
Bench Seat
Second Row ??? Passenger Van
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There is a top tether anchor for the front passenger position with a front passenger seat. The anchor is located at the rear of the seat cushion on the right front passenger??s seat.
Do not secure a child restraint in the outside seating positions of the third and fourth rows if the vehicle has a
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 51 for additional information.
Front Passenger Position
There are no top tether anchors or lower anchors in a four passenger fourth or ??fth row seat.
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Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System
{CAUTION:
If a
{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.
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{CAUTION:
Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and the safety belt continues to tighten. Secure any unused safety belts behind the child restraint so children cannot reach them. Pull the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock, if your vehicle has one, after the child restraint has been installed. Be sure to follow the instructions of the child restraint manufacturer.
Notice: Contact between the child restraint or the LATCH attachment parts and the vehicle???s safety belt assembly may cause damage to these parts. Make sure when securing unused safety belts behind the child restraint that there is no contact between the child restraint or the LATCH attachment parts and the vehicle???s safety belt assembly.
Folding an empty rear seat with the safety belts secured may cause damage to the safety belt or the seat. When removing the child restraint, always remember to return the safety belts to their normal, stowed position before folding the rear seat.
1.Attach and tighten the lower attachments to the lower anchors. If the child restraint does not have lower attachments or the desired seating position does not have lower anchors, secure the child restraint with the top tether and the safety belts. Refer to your child restraint manufacturer instructions and the instructions in this manual.
1.1.Find the lower anchors for the desired seating position.
1.2.Put the child restraint on the seat.
1.3.Attach and tighten the lower attachments on the child restraint to the lower anchors.
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2.If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that the top tether be attached, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor, if equipped. Refer to the child restraint instructions and the following steps:
2.1.Find the top tether anchor.
2.2.For the second row only, in the left outboard seating position, use anchor point (A). For the right outboard seating position, use anchor point (B). For the center seating position, use either anchor point (A) or (B). Never install two top tethers using the
same top tether anchor.
2.3.Route and tighten the top tether according to your child restraint instructions and the following instructions:
If the position you are using does not have a head restraint and you are using
a single tether, route the tether over the seatback.
If the position you are using does not have a head restraint and you are using
a dual tether, route the tether over
the seatback.
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If the position you are using has an integrated headrest and you
are using a dual tether, route the tether around the headrest.
If the position you are using has an integrated headrest and you
are using a single tether, route the tether over the headrest.
3.Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position or the Second Row Center Seat Position
If your child restraint has the LATCH system, see
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
For vehicles with a third, fourth, or ??fth row, there are no top tether anchors in the rear outside seat positions of the third, fourth, or ??fth row. Do not secure a child seat in these positions 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.
If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the
Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say.
1.Put the child restraint on the seat.
2.Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle??s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
63
3.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
4.Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.
64
5.To tighten the belt, 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
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 and the position you are using has a top tether anchor, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions
that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
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. Unbuckle the vehicle??s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or
larger child passenger. When the safety belt is not in use, slide the latch plate up the safety belt webbing. The latch plate should rest on the stitching on the safety belt, near the guide loop
on the side wall.
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Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position
(3rd, 4th, and 5th Row)
If your child restraint has the LATCH system, see
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
There are no top strap anchors in any
If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the lap 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.
1.Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt.
2.Put the child restraint on the seat.
3.Run the vehicle??s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
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4.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5.To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. If you are using a
6.If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether and the position you are using has a top tether anchor, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions that came with your child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
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. Unbuckle the vehicle??s safety belt. It will
be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
67
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Right Front Seat Position
(With Passenger Sensing System)
Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a
In addition, your vehicle has the passenger sensing system. The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag when an infant in a
If your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate a
a
{CAUTION:
A child in a
Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
If you need to secure a
68
If your vehicle does not have a rear seat that will accommodate a
never put a child in a
{CAUTION:
A child in a
Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
no system is
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. We recommend that
If you need to secure a
If you need to secure a
the
If your child restraint has the LATCH system, see
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
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You will be using the
1.Your vehicle has a right front passenger??s frontal airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on page 89. We recommend that
child restraint in this seat. See Manual Seats on page 9 or Power Seat on page 10.
When the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag, the off indicator in the passenger airbag status indicator should light and stay lit when you turn the ignition to RUN or START. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 172.
2. Put the child restraint on the seat.
3.Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle??s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
4.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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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
as you tighten the belt. You should not be able to pull more of the belt from the retractor once the lock has been set.
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7.If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether and the position you are using has a top tether anchor, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions
that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
8.Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.
9.If the airbag is off, the off indicator on the instrument panel will be lit and stay lit when the key is turned to RUN or START.
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.
Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens, adjust the head restraint.
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle and check with your dealer.
To remove the child restraint, if the top tether is attached to the top tether anchor, disconnect
it. Unbuckle the vehicle??s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Right Front Seat Position
(With Airbag Off Switch)
Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. There is a switch on the instrument panel that you can use to turn off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86 for more on this, including important safety information.
72
{CAUTION:
A child in a
Even though the airbag off switch is designed to turn off the passenger???s frontal airbag, no system is
with a rear seat that will accommodate a
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
If you need to secure a
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Never put a rear facing child restraint in the right front passenger??s seat unless the airbag is off. Here is why:
{CAUTION:
A child in a
A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward facing child restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 51. If you need to secure a
Manual Seats on page 9 or Power Seat on page 10.
{CAUTION:
If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right front passenger???s airbag could in???ate even though the switch is off. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly. Until you have the vehicle serviced, do not let anyone whom the national government has identi???ed as a member of a passenger airbag risk group sit in the right front passenger???s position (for example, do not secure a
If your child restraint has the LATCH system, see
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
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You will be using the
1.Your vehicle has a right front passenger??s frontal airbag. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86. If your child restraint is
this seat. See Manual Seats on page 9 or Power Seat on page 10. If you need to use a
When the airbag off switch has turned off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag, the off indicator in the airbag off light should light and stay lit when you turn the ignition to RUN or START. See Airbag Off Light on page 170.
2. Put the child restraint on the seat.
3.Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle??s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
4.Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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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 belt to tighten the lap belt portion and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using
a
the child restraint as you tighten the belt. You should not be able to pull more of the belt
out of the retractor once the lock has been set.
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7.If your child restraint manufacturer recommends using a top tether and the position you are using has a top tether anchor, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor. Refer to the instructions
that came with the child restraint and to Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 54.
8.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. Unbuckle the vehicle??s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
If you had turned the airbag off with the switch, remember to be sure to use the airbag off switch to turn on the right front passenger??s airbag when you remove the child restraint from the vehicle unless the person who will be sitting there
is a member of a passenger airbag risk group. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86.
{CAUTION:
If the right front passenger???s airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identi???ed by the national government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not be able to in???ate and help protect the person sitting there.
Do not turn off the passenger???s airbag unless the person sitting there is in a risk group. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86 for more on this, including important safety information.
77
Airbag System
Your vehicle has an airbag for the driver in the middle of the steering wheel. If it says AIR BAG on the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger??s seat, your vehicle has an airbag for the right front passenger.
If there is not a right front passenger??s seat, your vehicle has an airbag for the driver only.
Airbags are designed to supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Even though today??s airbags are also designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an in??ating bag, all airbags must in??ate very quickly to do their job.
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:
Airbags are designed to deploy in moderate to severe frontal and near frontal crashes. They are not designed to in???ate in rollover, rear crashes, or in many side crashes.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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CAUTION: (Continued)
And, for some unrestrained occupants, airbags may provide less protection in frontal crashes than more forceful airbags have provided in the past. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly ??? whether or not there is an airbag for that person.
{CAUTION:
Airbags in???ate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you are too close to an in???ating airbag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.
If your vehicle has an airbag for the right front passenger, read the following:
{CAUTION:
Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any airbag when it in???ates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags
plus
page 41 and Infants and Young Children on page 44.
79
The driver??s airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
80
If your vehicle has one, the right front passenger??s airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger??s side.
{CAUTION:
If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the bag might not in???ate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or
even death. The path of an in???ating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag,
and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering.
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When Should an Airbag In???ate?
The driver??s and right front passenger??s frontal airbags are designed to in??ate in moderate
to severe frontal or
and help restrain the occupants. Whether your frontal airbags will or should deploy is not based on how fast your vehicle is traveling.
It depends largely on what you hit, the direction of the impact, and how quickly your vehicle slows down.
Frontal airbags may in??ate at different crash speeds. For example:
??If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbags could in??ate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a moving object.
??If the vehicle hits an object that deforms, the airbags could in??ate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits an object that does not deform.
??If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole), the airbags could in??ate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall).
??If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle, the airbags could in??ate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle goes straight into the object.
Frontal airbags (driver and right front passenger) are not intended to in??ate during vehicle rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts.
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In any particular crash, no one can say whether an airbag should have in??ated simply because
of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. In??ation is determined by
what the vehicle hits, the angle of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down in front or
If the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of your vehicle is 8,500 lb (3 855 kg) or above, your vehicle has single stage airbags. If the GVWR
is below 8,500 lb (3 855 kg), your vehicle has dual stage airbags. You can ??nd the GVWR on the certi??cation label on the rear edge of the driver??s door. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 259
for more information.
Single Stage Airbags
If your vehicle has frontal airbags with single stage deployment and your vehicle goes straight into
a wall that does not move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with speci??c vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range.
Dual Stage Airbags
If your vehicle has frontal airbags with dual stage deployment, the restraint will adjust according
to the crash severity. Your vehicle has electronic frontal sensors which helps the sensing system distinguish between a moderate and a more severe frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, these airbags in??ate at a level less than full deployment. For more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs. If the front of your vehicle goes straight into a wall that does not move or deform, the threshold level for
the reduced deployment is about 12 to 16 mph (19 to 26 km/h), and the threshold level for
a full deployment is about 18 to 25 mph
(29 to 40 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with speci??c vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range.
Vehicles with dual stage airbags also have sensors which enable the sensing system to monitor the position of both the driver and passenger front seats. The seat position sensors provide information which is used to determine if the airbags should deploy at a reduced level or
at full deployment.
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What Makes an Airbag In???ate?
In an impact of sufficient severity, the airbag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the in??ator, which in??ates the airbag. The in??ator, airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.
How Does an Airbag Restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or
The airbag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Airbags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the occupant??s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
But airbags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts,
and many side impacts, primarily because an occupant??s motion is not toward those airbags.
Airbags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or
What Will You See After an Airbag
In???ates?
After an airbag in??ates, it quickly de??ates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the airbag in??ated. Some components of the airbag module ?? the steering wheel hub for the driver??s airbag or the instrument panel for the right
front passenger??s bag ?? may be hot for a short time. The parts of the airbag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There may be some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the de??ated airbags. Airbag in??ation does not prevent the driver from seeing out of the windshield or being able to steer the vehicle,
nor does it prevent people from leaving the vehicle.
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{CAUTION:
When an airbag in???ates, there may be dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but cannot get out of the vehicle after an airbag in???ates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door. If you experience breathing problems following an airbag deployment, you should seek medical attention.
Your vehicle has a feature that may automatically unlock the doors, turn the interior lamps on, and turn the hazard warning ??ashers on when the airbags in??ate. You can lock the doors again, turn the interior lamps off, and turn the hazard warning ??ashers off by using the controls for those features.
In many crashes severe enough to in??ate an airbag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger airbag.
??Airbags are designed to in??ate only once. After they in??ate, you will need some new parts for the airbag system. If you do not get them, the airbag system will not be there
to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include airbag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.
??Your vehicle has a crash sensing and diagnostic module which records information after a crash. See Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Recorders on page 431.
??Let only quali??ed technicians work on the airbag system. Improper service can mean that an airbag system will not work properly. See your dealer for service.
85
Airbag Off Switch
If your vehicle has one of the switches pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has an airbag off switch that you can use to turn off the right front passenger??s airbag.
If your vehicle does not have an airbag off switch, it may have a passenger sensing system. See
Passenger Sensing System on page 89.
This switch should only be turned to airbag OFF if the person in the right front passenger??s position is a member of a passenger risk group identi??ed by the national government as follows:
Infant. An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because:
??My vehicle has no rear seat;
??My vehicle has a rear seat too small to accommodate a
??The infant has a medical condition which, according to the infant???s physician, makes it necessary for the infant to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child???s condition.
86
Child age 1 to 12. A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the front seat because:
??My vehicle has no rear seat;
??Although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear seat(s) whenever possible, children ages 1 to 12 sometimes must ride in the front because no space is available in the rear seat(s) of my vehicle; or
??The child has a medical condition which, according to the child???s physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front
seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child???s condition.
Medical Condition. A passenger has a medical condition which, according to his or her physician:
??Causes the passenger airbag to pose a special risk for the passenger; and
??Makes the potential harm from the passenger airbag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning off the airbag and allowing the passenger, even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield in a crash.
{CAUTION:
If the right front passenger???s airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identi???ed by the national
government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not be able to in???ate and help protect the person sitting there.
Do not turn off the passenger???s airbag unless the person sitting there is in a risk group. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86.
87
To turn off the right front passenger??s airbag, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the off position.
The airbag off light will come on to let you know that the right front passenger??s airbag is off.
The light will stay on to remind you that the airbag is off. The right front passenger??s airbag will remain off until you turn it back on.
{CAUTION:
If the airbag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right front passenger???s airbag could in???ate even though the switch is off. If this ever happens, do not let anyone whom the national government has identi???ed as a member of a passenger airbag risk group sit in the right front passenger???s position (for example, do not secure a
88
Passenger Sensing System
If your instrument panel has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, your vehicle has a passenger sensing system.
To turn the right front passenger??s airbag on, insert your ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the on position.
If your vehicle does not have a passenger sensing system, it may have an airbag off switch. See
Airbag Off Switch on page 86.
89
The passenger airbag status indicator on the instrument panel will be visible when you turn your ignition key to RUN or START. The words ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, will
be visible on the instrument panel during the system check. When the system check is complete, either the word ON or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or the symbol for off, will
be visible. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 172.
The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver??s airbag is not part of the passenger sensing system.
The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger??s seat. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We recommend that child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in a
If your vehicle has a rear seat, it will accommodate a
in the front.?? This is because the risk to the
90
{CAUTION:
A child in a
Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
no system is
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
We recommend that
If you need to secure a
91
If your vehicle does not have a rear seat that will accommodate a
{CAUTION:
A child in a
child restraint would be very close to the in???ating airbag. Be sure the airbag is off before using a
Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
no system is
If you need to secure a
92
The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag if:
??The right front passenger seat is unoccupied.
??The system determines that an infant is present in a
??The system determines that a small child is present in a
??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 occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints.
??Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag system or the passenger sensing system.
When the passenger sensing system has turned off the passenger??s frontal airbag, the off indicator on the instrument panel will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off.
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 following the child restraint manufacturer??s directions and refer to Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (With Passenger Sensing System) in the Index.
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. Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens, adjust the head restraint.
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child restraint in a rear seat position if one is available and check with your dealer.
93
The passenger sensing system is designed to enable (may in??ate) the right front passenger??s frontal airbag anytime the system senses
that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the right front passenger??s seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed the airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active.
For some children who have outgrown child restraints and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the
right front passenger??s frontal airbag, depending upon the person??s seating posture and body build. Everyone in your vehicle who has outgrown
child restraints should wear a safety belt properly ?? whether or not there is an airbag for that person.
If a person of
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. This
will allow the system to detect that person and then enable the passenger??s airbag.
94
{CAUTION:
If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly, because an
See Airbag Readiness Light on page 169 for more on this, including important safety information.
A thick layer of additional material such as a blanket, or aftermarket equipment such as seat covers, seat heaters and seat massagers
can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. Remove any additional material from the seat cushion before reinstalling or securing the child restraint or small occupant. 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
{CAUTION:
Stowing of articles under the passenger???s seat or between the passenger???s seat cushion and seatback may interfere with the proper operation of the passenger sensing system.
95
Servicing Your
Vehicle
Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around your vehicle. You do
not want the system to in??ate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 437.
{CAUTION:
For up to 10 seconds, after the ignition is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still in???ate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it in???ates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is quali???ed to do so.
The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
96
Adding Equipment to Your
Q: Is there anything I might add to the front 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, height, front end or side sheet metal, 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.
If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance
before you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 418.
Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my vehicle modi???ed. How can I ???nd out whether this will affect my airbag system?
A: Changing or moving any parts of the
front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic module, steering wheel, the instrument panel, or airbag wiring can affect the operation of the airbag system. If you have questions, call Customer Assistance. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 418.
97
Restraint System Check
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. See Care of Safety Belts on page 381 for more information.
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces.
If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
Also look for any opened or broken airbag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
Notice: If you damage the covering for the driver???s or the right front passenger???s airbag, the airbag may not work properly. You may have to replace the airbag module in the steering wheel or both the airbag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger???s airbag. Do not open or break the airbag coverings.
98
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash
{CAUTION:
A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have
them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.
If you have had a crash, do you need new safety belts or LATCH system parts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new parts.
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 in??ates, if your vehicle has these, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section.
If the frontal airbags in??ate, you will also need to replace the driver??s and right front passenger??s safety belt buckle assembly. Be sure to do
so. Then the new buckle assembly will be there to help protect you in a collision.
After a crash you may need to replace the driver and front passenger??s safety belt buckle assemblies, even if the frontal airbags have not deployed. On some models, the driver and
front passenger??s safety belt buckle assemblies contain safety belt pretensioners. If your vehicle has safety belt pretensioners, have them checked if your vehicle has been in a collision, or if your airbag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 169.
99
??? NOTES
100
Section 2 Features and Controls
101
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.
102
This vehicle has one
locks. It will ??t with either side up.
When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer provides the owner with a pair of identical keys and a
The
ones made easily using this tag.
Notice: If you ever lock your keys in your vehicle, you may have to damage the vehicle to get in. Be sure you have spare keys.
If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call GM Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 424.
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System
If the vehicle has a Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) 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:
1.This device may not cause interference, and
2.This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
This device complies with
1.This device may not cause interference, and
2.This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Changes or modi??cations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
103
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any RKE 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.
??Check to determine if battery replacement or resynchronization is necessary. See ??Battery Replacement?? and ??Resynchronization?? under Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 104.
??If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or a quali??ed technician for service.
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation
Your vehicle may have this feature.
Q(Lock): Press this button once to lock all of the doors. The parking lamps will ??ash and
the interior lamps
will turn on brie??y. Press the lock button again within ??ve seconds and the parking lamps
will ??ash and the horn will chirp brie??y.
W(Unlock): Press this button once to unlock the driver??s door. The parking lamps will ??ash twice and the interior lamps will turn on. Press the unlock button again within ??ve seconds to unlock the remaining doors. The parking lamps will ??ash.
104
L (Panic Alarm): The remote keyless entry transmitter comes equipped with an instant panic alarm. To use the alarm, press the horn symbol while the ignition is turned off. The horn will sound and both the interior and exterior lamps will
??ash for up to thirty seconds. To stop the instant panic alarm, press the panic button again,
wait for thirty seconds, or start the vehicle.
j (Cargo Door): Press this button to unlock the cargo doors only.
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle
Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a
replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have a maximum of four transmitters matched to it.
105
Resynchronization
Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal that has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter.
To resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your vehicle and press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on the transmitter at the same time for seven seconds. The door locks should cycle to con??rm synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your dealer for service.
Battery Replacement
Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about four years.
You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won??t work at the normal range in any location.
If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it??s probably time to change the battery.
Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static
from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.
106
To replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter, do the following:
1.Use an object like a coin to pry open the transmitter.
2.Once the transmitter is separated, use an object like a pencil to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object.
3.Remove and replace the battery, positive (+) side down.
4.Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure no moisture can enter.
5.Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons on the remote keyless entry transmitter for seven seconds to resynchronize the transmitter.
6.Check the operation of the transmitter.
107
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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
???Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out.
A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it.
???Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening.
108
There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
If your vehicle is equipped with keyless entry, see
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 103 for more information.
From the outside, use your key.
To lock the door from the inside, slide the manual lever on your door down. To unlock the door, slide the manual lever up.
Power Door Locks
Press the bottom side of the power door lock switch to lock all
the doors at once. Press the top side of the power door lock switch to unlock all the
doors at once.
When a door is locked, the inside door handle will not work.
Cargo Door Relocking
This feature protects against having an unsecured side cargo door. If the side cargo door is open when the lock button is pressed on the door or the remote keyless entry transmitter, all doors will lock and then relock again after the cargo door is closed. If the cargo door is not closed within several minutes, the relock will not occur.
109
Rear Door Security Locks
Security locks are located on the front portion of the 60/40 side
For the 60/40 side
or to the left for
the passenger??s side door to engage
the security feature.
60/40
Door; Driver???s Side
Shown, Passenger???s
Side Similar
Move the button to the left for the driver??s side door or to the right for the passenger??s side door to return the door locks to normal operation.
For the side sliding door, move the button up to engage the security feature. Move the button down to return the door locks to normal operation.
Side Sliding Door
Lockout Protection
This feature protects you from locking your key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and
a door is open.
If the power lock switch is pressed when either the driver??s, passenger??s, or rear door is open, all
the doors will lock and then the driver??s door will unlock. This feature does not include the side cargo door.
110
Sliding Side Door
To open the sliding side door from the outside, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle and slide the door open.
To close the sliding side door from the outside, use the handle to slide the door toward the front of the vehicle.
When the door is closed, it will be ??ush with the side of the body.
To open the sliding side door from the inside, turn the handle upward and toward the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the door toward the rear of the vehicle.
To close the sliding side door from the inside, grasp the handle and slide the door toward the front of the vehicle.
Make sure the door is completely closed before driving away.
111
60/40
To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull out on the handle and pull the
door toward you.
To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the inside, pull the handle toward you and push
open the door.
112
To open the rear portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull the handle on the side of the rear door and pull the door toward you.
To close the 60/40 side doors, close the rear door ??rst. Then close the front door. Check to make sure that both doors are completely closed.
The front side
To open the door beyond 90 degrees, close the door partially, pull the check strap toward you and then open the door. When you close the door, the check strap will automatically
113
Rear Doors
{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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
???Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out.
A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it.
???Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening.
114
To open the rear doors from the outside, pull the handle toward you to open the passenger side rear door ??rst.
To open the driver side rear door, pull the latch release at the inside edge of the door.
To close the rear doors, close the driver side rear door ??rst. Then, close the passenger side rear door. Check to make sure both doors are completely closed.
115
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.
Manual Windows
To operate your manual windows, turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower your side door windows.
116
Power Windows
If you have power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors.
The driver??s door has a switch for the passenger window also. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to RUN or ACCESSORY, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 122.
Press the bottom of the switch with the power window symbol on it to lower the window.
Press the top of the switch with the power window symbol on it to raise the window.
The driver??s window switch also has an
117
Side
To open the side door
the window out and push down on the latch to lock the window into place.
To close the window, pull the latch toward you and push down on the latch to lock it.
Rear
Your vehicle also has rear
The rear
Sun Visors
To block out glare, swing down the sun visors. You can also swing them to the side.
118
Visor Vanity Mirror
You may have visor vanity mirrors, with or without lamps. Lift the mirror cover to turn the lamps
on, if you have them.
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of
Passlock??
Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock??
Passlock?? is a passive
During normal operation, the SECURITY light will go off approximately ??ve seconds after the key
is turned to RUN. See Security Light on page 183.
If the engine stalls and the SECURITY light ??ashes, wait until the light stops ??ashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release the key from START as soon as the engine starts.
If the engine is running and the SECURITY light comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock?? system is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock?? at this time. You may also want to check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 389. See your dealer for service.
119
Starting and Operating Your
Vehicle
New Vehicle
Notice: Your vehicle does not need an elaborate
???Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the ???rst 500 miles (805 km).
???Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or slow, for the ???rst 500 miles (805 km).
Do not make
???Avoid making hard stops for the ???rst
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this
???Do not tow a trailer during
Towing a Trailer on page 266 for the trailer towing capabilities of your vehicle and more information.
Following
120
Ignition Positions
Use the key to turn the ignition switch to four different positions.
A (LOCK): This position locks the ignition and transmission. It is a
Notice: If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you cannot turn it, be sure you are using
the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? Turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of these works, then your vehicle needs service.
B (ACCESSORY): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off.
Lengthy operation of features such as the radio in the accessory ignition position may drain the battery and prevent your vehicle from starting. Do not operate your vehicle in the accessory ignition position for a long period of time.
C (RUN): This is the position for driving.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key in the ACCESSORY or RUN position with the engine off. You may not be able to start your vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for
an extended period of time.
D (START): This position starts the engine.
121
Key In the Ignition
Never leave your vehicle with the keys inside, as it is an easy target for joy riders or thieves. If you leave the key in the ignition and park your vehicle, a chime will sound, when you open the driver??s door. Always remember to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. This will lock your ignition and transaxle. Also, always remember to lock the doors.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key in the ignition while your vehicle is parked.
You may not be able to start your vehicle after it has been parked for an extended period of time.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
The Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature will allow certain features on your vehicle to continue to work for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to LOCK or until one of the doors is opened.
Starting the Engine
Place the transmission in the proper gear.
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in any other position
Notice: Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
Starting Procedure
1.With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. Do not
race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently to allow the oil to warm up and lubricate all moving parts.
122
Your vehicle has a
Notice: Cranking the engine for long periods of time, by returning the key to the START position immediately after cranking has ended, can overheat and damage the cranking
motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down.
2.If the engine does not start after
especially in very cold weather (below 0??F or ???18??C), it could be ??ooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator
pedal all the way to the ??oor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for up to a maximum of 15 seconds. Wait at least
15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down. When the engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If
the vehicle starts brie??y but then stops again, do the same thing. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts.
Notice: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by your vehicle???s warranty.
123
Fuel Regulator
Your vehicle has a fuel regulator that shuts the fuel off when the engine reaches 5,600 rpm.
Engine Coolant Heater
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
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. Your vehicle may also have an internal thermostat in the plug end of the cord. This will prevent operation of the engine coolant heater when the temperature is at or above 0??F (???18??C) as
noted on the cord.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1.Turn off the engine.
2.Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
The cord for the engine coolant heater is located on the driver??s side of the engine compartment and is attached to the hose for the power steering reservoir.
3.Plug it into a normal, grounded
{CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a ???re. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded
4.Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could be damaged.
124
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you will be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best
advice for that particular area.
Automatic Transmission Operation
There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This position locks your rear wheels. It is the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle cannot move easily.
{CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ???rmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See
Shifting Into Park (P) on page 129. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 266.
Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) with the ignition
in RUN.
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into another gear. See
Shifting Out of Park (P) on page 130.
125
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.
Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 258.
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 ???rmly 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.
Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine running at high speed may damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at high speed when shifting your vehicle.
126
DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving.
It provides the best fuel economy for your vehicle. If you need more power for passing, and you are:
??Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down.
??Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down.
You will shift down to the next gear and have more power.
Downshifting the transmission in slippery road conditions could result in skidding, see ??Skidding?? under Loss of Control on page 243.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving. However it reduces vehicle speed
more than DRIVE (D) without using your brakes. You might choose THIRD (3) instead of DRIVE (D) when driving on hilly, winding roads, when
towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears and when going down a steep hill.
You should use THIRD (3) (or, as you need to, a lower gear) when towing a trailer to minimize heat
SECOND (2): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than THIRD (3) without using your brakes. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.
You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start
your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.
FIRST (1): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than SECOND (2) without using
your brakes. You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission will not shift into ??rst gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.
Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. The repair will not be covered by your warranty. If you are stuck, do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill, use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place.
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Parking Brake
To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down
the parking brake pedal with your left foot.
If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.
To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the handle, located just above the parking brake pedal, marked BRAKE RELEASE to release the parking brake.
If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off.
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 are parking on any hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 266. That section shows what to do ??rst to keep the trailer from moving.
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Shifting Into Park (P)
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ???rmly 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 266.
1.Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake with your left foot.
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 LOCK.
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).
Leaving Your Vehicle With the
Engine Running
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ???rmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch ???re. You or others could be injured. Do not leave your vehicle with the engine running.
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and the parking brake is ??rmly set before
you leave it. After you move the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without ??rst pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever was
not fully locked into PARK (P).
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Torque Lock
If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift your vehicle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may ??nd 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 ??nd out how, see Shifting Into Park (P) on page 129.
When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake.
If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to
take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
Shifting Out of Park (P)
Your vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See
Automatic Transmission Operation on page 125.
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way up into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then, move the shift lever into
the gear you want.
If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still cannot shift out of PARK (P), try this:
1.Turn the key to LOCK.
2.Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4.
3.Shift to NEUTRAL (N).
4.Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you want.
5.Have the system ??xed as soon as you can.
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Parking Over Things That Burn
{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.
131
Engine Exhaust
{CAUTION:
Engine exhaust and fuel operated heater exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. If your vehicle has a diesel engine and a fuel operated heater, see ???Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)??? in the diesel engine supplement.
You might have exhaust coming in if:
???Your exhaust system sounds strange or different.
???Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
???Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
???Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris.
???Repairs were not done correctly.
???Your vehicle or exhaust system has been modi???ed improperly.
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:
???Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and
???Have your vehicle ???xed immediately.
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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 132.
Also, idling in a
CO ??? can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running.
Another
{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 ???rmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will not move. See Shifting Into Park (P) on page 129.
If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 266.
133
Mirrors
Manual Rearview Mirror
Pull the tab under the mirror toward you to reduce glare from headlamps behind you after dark. Push the tab away from you to restore the mirror to the original position.
If you have a cargo van without the rear door glass, your vehicle may not have an inside rearview mirror.
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass and Temperature Display
Your vehicle may have this mirror. When on, an automatic dimming mirror will dim to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark.
The mirror also includes a dual display in the upper right corner of the mirror with the compass reading and the outside temperature.
Yb: Brie??y press this button to turn the display on or off.
Temperature Display
The temperature can be displayed by pressing the compass/temperature button. Pressing the compass/temperature button once brie??y, will toggle the display reading on and off. To alternate the temperature reading between Fahrenheit and Celsius, press and hold the compass/temperature button for approximately three seconds until the display blinks F and C. After approximately
??ve seconds of inactivity, the display will stop blinking and display the last selection made.
If an abnormal reading is displayed, see your dealer.
Automatic Dimming Mirror Operation
O: Press this button to turn the automatic dimming feature on or off. The indicator light to the left of the button will turn on to indicate when the feature is on. Once the mirror is turned off,
it will remain off until it is turned back on, or until the vehicle is restarted.
Compass Operation
Press the compass/temperature button once brie??y to turn the display on or off.
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Compass Calibration
The compass may need calibration if one of the following occurs:
??If CAL is displayed while driving in the vehicle.
??After approximately ??ve seconds, the display does not show a compass heading, N for North, for example, there may be a strong magnetic ??eld interfering with the compass. Such interference may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder, or a similar magnetic item.
??The compass does not display the correct heading and the compass zone variance is set correctly.
In order to calibrate, CAL must be displayed in the mirror compass windows. If CAL is not displayed, push in the compass/temperature button for approximately nine seconds or until CAL is displayed.
The compass can be calibrated by driving the vehicle in circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display reads a direction.
Compass Variance
The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if the vehicle is outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance
To adjust for compass variance:
1.Find your current location and variance zone number on the following zone map.
135
2.Press and hold the compass/temperature button for six seconds until a zone number appears in the display.
3.Press the compass/temperature button on the bottom of the mirror until the new zone number appears in the display. After you stop pressing the button, the display will show a compass direction within a few seconds.
Cleaning the Mirror
Use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing.
Outside Manual Mirror
Adjust your outside mirrors so you can see a little of the side of your vehicle, and have a clear view of objects behind you. Some mirrors can be folded in to enter narrow passageways.
Outside
If your vehicle is equipped with this style
136
1.To adjust the mirrors when towing a trailer, turn
the mirror by pushing the mirror head toward
the front of the vehicle.
2.Turn the mirror head so that it swings further outboard and adjust the mirror surface as needed.
If your vehicle is equipped with this style
Adjust the mirror by rotating it left or right. Once the mirror is adjusted to the correct position, tighten the set screw, located at the end of the arm, to hold the mirror in place. These mirrors can also be manually folded in.
On the lower portion of each mirror is a convex mirror. A convex mirror??s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver??s seat.
137
Outside Power Mirrors
If the vehicle has power mirrors, the control is located on the driver??s side door.
Select each mirror by turning the knob clockwise for the passenger??s side mirror or counterclockwise for the driver??s side mirror. The center position
is neutral.
Then, adjust the mirror angle by moving the knob in the desired direction.
Outside Convex Mirror
Your passenger??s side mirror may be convex.
A convex mirror??s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver??s seat.
{CAUTION:
A convex mirror can make things
(like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.
138
Outside Heated Mirrors
If your vehicle is equipped with outside heated mirrors, they can be defrosted by pressing the mirror button located near the fan control.
An indicator light in the button will light when the outside heated mirrors are activated.
Your rear window defogger comes on when the outside heated mirrors are on. If your vehicle has a rear window defogger, see ??Rear Window Defogger?? in Climate Control System on page 160.
Storage Areas
Your vehicle may have a front storage compartment. It is located at the center of the instrument panel extension, by the ??oor. To open the compartment, pull up on the latch. The compartment will open automatically.
Storage compartments may also be included on the inside of each front door.
139
??? NOTES
140
Section 3 Instrument Panel
141
142
??? NOTES
143
Instrument Panel Overview
144
The main components of your instrument panel are the following:
A.Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 162.
B.Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 147.
C.Instrument Panel Cluster. See Instrument Panel Cluster on page 167.
D.Shift Lever. See Starting the Engine on page 122.
E.Climate Control System. See Climate Control System on page 160.
F.Audio System(s). See Audio System(s) on page 187.
G.Exterior Lamp Controls. See Exterior Lamps on page 155.
H.Tow/Haul Mode Button. See ??Tow/Haul Mode?? under Towing a Trailer on page 266.
I.Rear Heating System (If Equipped). See Rear Heating System on page 163.
J.Accessory Power Outlets/Cigarette Lighter. See
Accessory Power Outlet(s) on page 158 and Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter on page 159.
K.Airbag Off Switch. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86.
L.Storage Compartment. See Storage Areas on page 139.
M.StabiliTrak?? Button (If Equipped), Passenger
Airbag Status Indicator, and
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Hazard Warning Flashers
The hazard warning ??ashers warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will ??ash on and off.
The hazard warning ??asher button is located on top of the steering column.
The hazard warning ??ashers work no matter what ignition position the key is in, and even if the
key is not in the ignition.
Press the button to make the front and rear turn signal lamps ??ash on and off. Press the button again to turn the ??ashers off.
When the hazard warning ??ashers are on, your turn signals will not work.
Other Warning Devices
If you carry re??ective triangles, you can set them up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle.
Horn
Press the horn symbol in the middle of the steering wheel to sound the horn.
146
Tilt Wheel
A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle.
The lever is located on the lower left side of the steering column.
To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
The lever on the left side of the steering column includes the following:
?? G Turn and Lane Change Signals. Turn and
?? 53 Headlamp
Headlamp
??
147
?? N Windshield Wipers. See Windshield Wipers on page 150.
?? L Windshield Washer. See Windshield Washer on page 151.
?? I Cruise Control. Cruise Control on page 151.
For information on the exterior lamps, see Exterior Lamps on page 155 later in this section.
Turn and
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 ??nished, the lever will return automatically.
An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will ??ash in the direction of the turn
or lane change.
To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to ??ash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.
If you move the lever all the way up or down, and the arrow ??ashes at twice the normal rate,
a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers may not see your turn signal.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don??t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for
148
Turn Signal On Chime
If your turn signal is left on for more than
3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each ??ash of the turn signal. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position.
Headlamp
23(Headlamp
To change the headlamps from low to high beam, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you. Then release it.
When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel cluster also will be on.
This feature allows you to use your
To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you, but not so far that you hear it click.
If your headlamps are off or on
149
Windshield Wipers
You control the windshield wipers by turning the band with the wiper symbol on it.
8(Mist): For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to mist. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one wipe. If you want more wipes, hold the band on
mist longer.
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.
d (Low Speed): For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the ??rst solid band past the delay settings. position. For
To stop the wipers, move the band to off position.
a (High Speed): For
9(Off): To stop the wipers, move the band to off.
Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they??re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them.
If your blades do become worn or damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.
150
Windshield Washer
L(Washer Fluid): There is a paddle marked with the windshield washer symbol at the top of the multifunction lever. To spray washer ??uid on the windshield, push the paddle. The wipers will
clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed.
{CAUTION:
In freezing weather, do not use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer ???uid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.
Cruise Control
If your vehicle has 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).
If you apply your brakes, the cruise control will disengage.
{CAUTION:
Cruise control can be dangerous where you cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do not use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.
Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause excessive wheel slip, and you could lose control. Do not use cruise control on slippery roads.
151
9(Off): This position turns the system off.
R(On): This position activates the system.
S(Resume/Accelerate): Push the lever to this symbol to make the vehicle accelerate or resume to a previously set speed.
T(Set): Press this button to set the speed.
Setting Cruise Control
{CAUTION:
If you leave your cruise control on when you are not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you do not want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control.
1.Move the cruise control switch to on.
2.Get up to the speed you want.
3.Press in the set button at the end of the lever and release it.
4.Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
The CRUISE light on the instrument panel
will illuminate when the cruise control is engaged.
152
Resuming a Set Speed
Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, disengages the cruise control. But you don??t need to reset it.
Once you??re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from on to resume/accelerate brie??y.
You??ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there.
If you hold the switch at resume/accelerate brie??y, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don??t hold the switch at resume/accelerate.
Increasing Speed While Using
Cruise Control
There are two ways to go to a higher speed:
??Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Press the set button at the end of
the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You??ll now cruise at the higher speed.
??Move the cruise switch from on to resume/ accelerate. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to resume/accelerate brie??y. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.
153
Reducing Speed While Using
Cruise Control
??Press and hold the set button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it.
??To slow down in very small amounts, press the set button brie??y. 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. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.
Using Cruise Control on Hills
How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may want to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may
have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake
takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers ??nd this to be too much trouble and don??t use
cruise control on steep hills.
Ending Cruise Control
There are three ways to turn off the cruise control:
??Step lightly on the brake pedal.
??Move the cruise control switch to off.
??If your vehicle has the StabiliTrak?? feature,
cruise control will deactivate if road conditions cause StabiliTrak?? to activate.
154
Erasing Speed Memory
When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased.
Exterior Lamps
The control on the driver??s side of your instrument panel operates the exterior lamps.
The exterior lamp control has four positions:
?? (Defeat): Turn the control to this position to turn off the DRL. Vehicles ??rst sold in Canada cannot turn off the DRL.
i(Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)): Turning the control to this position selects the DRL. When the vehicle is shifted out of PARK (P), the DRL will turn on, unless defeated. When the DRL are active, the DRL indicator will illuminate.
;(Parking Lamps): Turn the control to this position to turn on the parking lamps, together with the following:
??Instrument Panel Lights
??Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) (Canada)
??Sidemarker Lamps
??Taillamps
??License Plate Lamps
If the DRL are active when the control is turned to this position, the DRL will turn off.
For vehicles ??rst sold in Canada, the DRL will remain active along with the lamps mentioned above.
155
5(Headlamps): Turn the control to this position to turn on the headlamps together with the parking lamps and turn off the daytime running lamps.
You can switch your headlamps from high to
A circuit breaker protects your headlamps. If you have an electrical overload, your headlamps
will ??icker on and off. Have your headlamp wiring checked right away if this happens.
Headlamps on Reminder
A reminder chime will sound when your control is turned to the headlamps or parking lamps position, your key is out of the ignition, and your driver??s door is open. To disable the chime, turn the control to the Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) position and then back to the parking lamps or headlamps position.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully functional daytime running lamps are required on all vehicles ??rst sold in Canada.
The DRL system will come on when the following conditions are met:
??The ignition is on.
??The exterior lamps control is in DRL mode and not in the defeat position.
When the DRL are on, only the parking lamps will be on. The other lamps will not be on. The instrument panel will be lit.
When you turn the headlamp switch off, the headlamps will go off, and your DRL lamps (parking lamps) will illuminate.
To turn off the DRL, turn the exterior lamp control to the off position or shift into PARK (P). The DRL will stay off until the control is toggled again or the vehicle is shifted out of PARK (P).
This procedure applies only to vehicles ??rst sold in the United States.
156
Instrument Panel Brightness
Press this knob located next to the exterior lamps knob to extend it, and then turn it to adjust the instrument panel brightness.
Turn the knob all the way clockwise to turn on the interior lamps. Press the knob back into its stored position when not in use.
Dome Lamps
The dome lamps will automatically come on when a door is opened and turn off shortly after all doors are closed.
Dome Lamp Override
You can use the dome lamp override button, located below the exterior lamp control, to override the automatic operation of the
dome lamps.
To turn the automatic operation of the lamps off, press the button. The dome lamps will remain off while a door is open. To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the button again.
While pressed in, this will override the illuminated entry feature unless you use your keyless entry transmitter to unlock the vehicle.
157
Entry Lighting
Your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated entry feature.
When a door is opened, the dome lamps will come on if the dome override button is in the out position. If the dome override button is pressed in, the lamps will not come on. When the door is closed, the interior lamps will remain on for a period of 15 seconds or until the vehicle is started.
Exit Lighting
With exit lighting, the interior lamps will come on for a period of 40 seconds when you remove
the key from the ignition. The lamps will not come on if the dome override button is pressed in.
Reading Lamps
To turn on the reading lamps, press the button located next to each lamp. To turn them off, press the button again.
Battery
This feature shuts off the exterior and interior lamps if they are left on after the ignition is turned off.
All exterior lamps will shut off after 10 minutes. Interior cargo lamps will shut down after 20 minutes and all other interior lamps after 10 minutes.
Accessory Power Outlet(s)
With accessory power outlets you can plug in auxiliary electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone or CB radio.
Your vehicle may have two accessory power outlets. If your vehicle has a cigarette lighter/accessory power outlet, it is located on the driver??s side of the front storage compartment. The other accessory power outlet is located on the passenger??s side of the front storage compartment.
To use the outlet, lift the cover. When not using it, always close the cover.
158
Certain power accessory plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the accessory power 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 of 20 amperes. Check with your dealer before adding electrical equipment.
When adding electrical equipment, be sure to follow the proper installation instructions included with the equipment.
Notice: Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty. Do not hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug because the power outlets are designed for accessory power plugs only.
Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter
Your vehicle may have this feature. The front ashtray can be placed in the instrument panel extension at the center of the instrument panel. Lift up on the ashtray door to open it.
Notice: If you put papers, pins, or other ???ammable items in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other smoking materials could ignite
them and possibly damage your vehicle. Never put ???ammable items in the ashtray.
To use the cigarette lighter, push it in all the way and let go. When it??s ready, it will pop back
out by itself.
Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter in while it is heating will not allow the lighter to back away from the heating element when it is hot. Damage from overheating may occur to the lighter or heating element, or a fuse could be blown. Do not hold a cigarette lighter in while it is heating.
159
Climate Controls
Climate Control System
With this system you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation for your vehicle.
Turn the right knob clockwise or counterclockwise to direct the air??ow inside of your vehicle.
To change the current mode, select one of the following:
H(Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument panel outlets.
6(Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the ??oor outlets with some air directed to the
outboard outlets (for the side windows) and some air directed to the windshield.
The right knob can also be used to select the defrost and defog modes. Information on defogging and defrosting can be found later in this section.
9(Fan): Turn the left knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the fan speed.
Temperature Control: Turn the center knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase
or decrease the temperature inside your vehicle.
160
If your vehicle has air conditioning, your heating/air conditioning controls will look like this:
On hot days, open the windows to let hot inside air escape; then close them. This helps to reduce the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down.
It also helps the system to operate more efficiently.
A/C (Air Conditioning): This setting will begin to cool and dehumidify the air inside of your vehicle.
MAX A/C (Maximum Air Conditioning): Turn the right knob to MAX A/C for maximum cooling.
This setting cools the air the fastest, by recirculating the inside air.
Defogging and Defrosting
Fog on the inside of windows is a result of high humidity (moisture) condensing on the cool window glass. This can be minimized if the climate control is used properly. There are two modes to clear fog or frost from your windshield and side windows.
Use the defog mode to clear the windows of fog or moisture and warm the passengers. Use the defrost mode to remove fog or frost from the windshield more quickly. For best results, clear all snow and ice from the windshield before defrosting.
Turn the knob on the right of the climate control panel to select the defog or defrost mode.
1(Defrost): This setting operates the defroster. Most of the air comes out near the windshield, with some going to the ??oor outlets and front side windows. The air conditioning compressor may operate in this setting to dehumidify the air.
The defog setting is useful for cold weather with a large number of passengers or very humid conditions to help keep the windshield clear. Use defrost to remove fog or ice from the windshield quickly in extremely cold conditions. The temperature knob should be in the red area and the fan control toward high. Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear.
161
Rear Window Defogger
Some vehicles may have a rear window defogger.
< R. DEF (Rear Defrost): Press this button to turn the rear window defogger on or off. Be sure to clear as much snow from the window as possible.
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog or frost from the rear window and will only work when the ignition is RUN.
The rear window defogger will turn off several minutes after the button is pressed. If turned on again, the defogger will run for several more minutes before turning off. The defogger can also be turned off by pressing the button again or
by turning off the engine.
Notice: Do not use a razor blade or sharp object to clear the inside rear window. Do not adhere anything to the defogger grid lines
in the rear glass. These actions may damage the rear defogger. Repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Outlet Adjustment
Use the outlets located near the center and on the sides of the instrument panel to change the direction of air??ow.
Operation Tips
??Clear away any ice, snow or leaves from the air inlets at the base of the windshield that may block the ??ow of air into your vehicle.
??Use of
??Keep the path under the front seats clear of objects to help circulate the air inside of your vehicle more effectively.
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Rear Heating System
Your vehicle may have a rear heating system that allows you to adjust the amount of air ??owing into the rear of the vehicle, from the
REAR HEAT: The thumbwheel for this system is located to the left of the audio system.
9(Fan): Turn the thumbwheel up or down to increase or decrease the amount of heated air sent to the
HI: Turn the thumbwheel to this position to supply the most amount of heat to the
LO: Turn the thumbwheel to this position to supply the least amount of heat to the
OFF: Turn the thumbwheel to this position to turn the rear heating system off.
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Rear Air Conditioning and
Heating System
Your vehicle may have a rear heating and
Front Climate Control Panel
Use this control panel when you would like to maintain a separate temperature setting. Adjust the direction of the air??ow or adjust the fan speed
for the rear seat passenger(s).
Rear Climate Control Panel
If your vehicle has a 135 inch (343 cm) wheelbase, a rear control panel for this system is located in the second row behind the driver in the rear
of your vehicle. A rear seat passenger can use this control panel to personally adjust the temperature, the direction of the air??ow and the fan speed for the rear seating area.
The fan knob located on the front climate control panel must be turned to REAR CNTL to allow a rear seat passenger to use the control panel in the rear seating area. Performing this action disables the front control panel. To return control to this panel, move the fan knob out of REAR CNTL.
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Turn the center knob clockwise or counterclockwise to change the direction of the air??ow in the rear seating area.
To change the current mode, select one of the following:
H(Vent): Use this mode to direct air to the upper outlets, with a little air directed to the ??oor outlets.
2(Floor): Use this mode to direct most of the air to the ??oor outlets.
9(Fan): Turn the left knob clockwise or counterclockwise to HIGH, MED (Medium) or LOW to increase or decrease the fan speed in the
Temperature Control: To increase or decrease the temperature for the rear of the vehicle, turn the right knob located on the
The
Be sure to keep the area under the front seats clear of any objects so that the air inside of your vehicle can circulate effectively.
For information on how to use the main climate control system, see Climate Control System
on page 160. For information on ventilation, see
Outlet Adjustment on page 162.
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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. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on brie??y when you start the engine just to let you know they??re working. If you are familiar with this section,
you should not be alarmed when this happens.
Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle??s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let
you know when there??s a problem with your vehicle.
When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check
the section that tells you what to do about
it. Please follow this manual??s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly ?? and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They??re a big help.
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Instrument Panel Cluster
The instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how the vehicle is running. You will know how fast you are going, how much fuel you are using, and many other things you will need to know to drive safely and economically.
United States version shown, Canada similar
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Speedometer and Odometer
Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h).
Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada).
Your vehicle has a tamper resistant odometer. The digital odometer will read 999,999 if someone tries to turn it back.
You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. If the new one can be set to the mileage total of the old odometer, then it must be. But if it can??t, then it??s set at zero and a label must be put on the driver??s door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed.
Trip Odometer
The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero.
Press the reset button, located on the instrument panel cluster next to the trip odometer display, to toggle between the trip odometer and the regular odometer. Holding the reset button for approximately one second while the trip odometer is displayed will reset it.
To display the odometer reading with the ignition off, press the reset button.
Safety Belt Reminder Light
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. The driver safety belt light will also be provided and stay on for several seconds, then it will ??ash for several more. You should buckle your seat belt.
This light and chime reminder will be repeated if the driver remains unbuckled and the vehicle is in motion.
If the driver??s belt is buckled, neither the chime nor the light will be provided.
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Passenger Safety Belt
Reminder Light
If your vehicle has this feature, several seconds after the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will sound for several seconds to remind the front passenger to buckle their safety belt. This would only occur if the passenger airbag is enabled. See
Passenger Sensing System on page 89 for more information. The passenger safety belt light will also come on and stay on for several seconds, then it will ??ash for several more.
This light and chime reminder will be repeated if the passenger remains unbuckled and
the vehicle is in motion.
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. The system checks the airbag??s electrical
system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the airbag sensor, the airbag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag system, see Airbag System on page 78.
This light will come on when you start your vehicle, and it will ??ash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready.
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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 airbag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle, it means the airbag system may not be working properly.
The airbags in your vehicle may not in???ate in a crash, or they could even in???ate without a crash. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle serviced right away if the airbag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle.
The airbag readiness light should ??ash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN.
If the light doesn??t come on then, have it ??xed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
Airbag Off Light
If your vehicle is equipped with an airbag off switch, when you turn the right front passenger??s airbag off, the airbag off light will come on and stay on to remind you that the airbag has
been turned off. This light will go off when you turn the airbag back on again. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86 for more on this, including important safety information.
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{CAUTION:
If the right front passenger???s airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identi???ed by the national
government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not be able to in???ate and help protect the person sitting there.
Do not turn off the passenger???s airbag unless the person sitting there is in
a risk group identi???ed by the national government. See Airbag Off Switch on page 86 for more on this, including important safety information.
{CAUTION:
If the airbag readiness light ever comes on when you have turned off the airbag, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. The right front passenger???s airbag could in???ate even though the switch is off. If this ever happens, do not let anyone whom the national government has identi???ed as a member of a passenger airbag risk group sit in the right front passenger???s position (for example, do not secure a
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Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
If your vehicle has the passenger sensing system, the instrument panel will have a passenger airbag status indicator.
If your vehicle has a rear seat, it will accommodate a
in the front.?? This is because the risk to the
When the ignition key is turned to RUN or START, the passenger airbag status indicator will light
ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, for several seconds as a system check. Then, after several more seconds, the status indicator will light either ON or OFF, or either the on
or off symbol to let you know the status of the right front passenger??s frontal airbag.
{CAUTION:
Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
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If your vehicle does not have a rear seat that will accommodate a
never put a child in a
{CAUTION:
Even though the passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the passenger???s frontal airbag if the system detects a
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 in??ate).
{CAUTION:
If the on indicator comes on when you have a
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If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the airbag status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger??s frontal airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on page 89 for more on this, including important safety information.
If, after several seconds, all status indicator lights remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a problem with the lights or the passenger sensing system. See your dealer for service.
{CAUTION:
If the off indicator and the airbag readiness light ever come on together, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly, because an
on page 169.
Charging System Light
This light should come on brie??y when you turn on the ignition, before starting the engine, as a check to show you it
is working.
After the engine starts, the light should go out. If it stays on or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with your charging system.
It could indicate a problem with the generator drive belt, or some other charging system problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery.
If you must drive a short distance with this light on, it helps to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.
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Voltmeter Gage
When your engine is not running, but the ignition is on (in the RUN position), this gage shows your battery??s state of charge in
DC volts.
When the engine is running, the gage shows the condition of the charging system. Readings between the low and high warning zones indicate the normal operating range.
Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operating in the vehicle and the engine is left at an idle for an extended period. This condition
is normal since the charging system is not able to provide full power at engine idle. As engine speeds are increased, this condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging system to create maximum power.
You can only drive for a short time with the reading in either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories.
Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Brake System Warning Light
With the ignition on, the brake system warning light will 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.
Your vehicle??s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn??t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well.
If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.
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This light should come on brie??y when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If it doesn??t come on then, have it ??xed so it will be ready to warn you if there??s a problem.
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull
off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the ??oor. It may take longer to stop.
If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See Towing Your Vehicle on page 264.
{CAUTION:
Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on after you have pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.
Warning Light
With the
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If the light stays on, or comes on when you??re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn??t on, you still have brakes, but you don??t have
The
is a problem.
StabiliTrak?? Not Ready Light
If your vehicle has the StabiliTrak?? system, this light will come
on according to
the description table for the StabiliTrak?? system.
For more information, see StabiliTrak?? System on page 235.
You will hear three chimes if the light turns on and one chime if the light turns off.
StabiliTrak?? Indicator Light
If you have the StabiliTrak?? system, this light will be on or ??ashing, according to the description table for the StabiliTrak?? system.
For more information, see StabiliTrak?? System on page 235.
You will hear three chimes if the light turns on and one chime if the light turns off.
If this light remains on steady, your vehicle needs to be taken in for service.
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Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area
your engine is too hot!
It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal operating conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle, and turn off the engine
as soon as possible.
See Engine Overheating on page 311.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Check Engine Light
Your vehicle has a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition, and emission control systems.
This system is called OBD II
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. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.
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Notice: If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after awhile, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good, and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.
Notice: Modi???cations made to the engine, transmission, exhaust, intake, or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle???s emission controls and may cause this light to come on. Modi???cations to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by your warranty. This may also result in a failure to pass a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test. See Accessories and Modi???cations on page 286.
This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light does not
come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways:
??Light Flashing ?? A mis??re condition has been detected. A mis??re increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Diagnosis and service may be required.
??Light On Steady ?? An emission control system malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. Diagnosis and service may be required.
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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 ??ashing and remains on steady, see ??If the Light Is On Steady?? following.
If the light continues to ??ash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least
10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see ??If the Light Is On Steady?? following. If the light is still ??ashing, follow the previous steps, and see your dealer for service as soon as possible.
If the Light Is On Steady
You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following:
Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle?
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. See Filling the Tank on page 293. The diagnostic system can determine if the
fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off.
Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water?
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.
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Have you recently changed brands of fuel?
If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See Gasoline Octane on page 289. Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after
the vehicle into gear, mis??ring, hesitation on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on.
If you experience one or more of these conditions, change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.
If none of the above steps have made the light turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to ??x any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed.
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.
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD
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Oil Pressure Gage
The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running. Canadian vehicles indicate pressure in kPa (kilopascals).
Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the low pressure zone indicate the normal operating range.
A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a dangerously low oil level or other problem causing low oil pressure. Check your oil as soon as possible.
{CAUTION:
Do not keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches ???re. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced.
Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance may damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always follow the maintenance schedule in this manual for changing engine oil.
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Change Engine Oil Light
This light is displayed when your vehicle needs to be serviced.
If your vehicle has a V8 engine and this light is ??ashing, it indicates that the oil level is low.
When this light is on steady, your vehicle needs to be serviced. See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 400 for more information.
Once the engine oil has been changed, the change engine oil light must be reset. Until it is reset, the light will stay on for a while each time the engine is started. For more information
on resetting the system, see ??How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System?? under Engine Oil Life System (Gasoline Engine) on page 302.
Security Light
The light will stay on until the engine starts. If the light ??ashes, the Passlock?? System has entered a tamper mode. If the vehicle fails to start,
If the light comes on continuously while driving and stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock?? System. Your vehicle will not be
protected by Passlock??, and you should see your GM dealer.
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Cruise Control Light
The cruise light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. See Cruise Control on page 151 for more information.
Reduced Engine Power Light
If the reduced engine power light 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 the reduced engine power light is on, but acceleration and speed may be reduced.
Anytime the check engine light stays on, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized GM dealer as soon as possible for service.
Highbeam On Light
This light comes on when the
If the check engine and reduced engine power lights are on, the throttle may be disabled and a noticeable reduction in the vehicle??s performance may occur.
See Headlamp
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Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
Indicator Light
You have this light on the instrument panel.
It will light whenever the DRL are on. It is also
a reminder to turn on your headlamps when driving at night.
Tow/Haul Mode Light
This message is displayed when the tow/haul mode has been activated.
For more information, see ??Tow/Haul Mode?? in
Towing a Trailer on page 266.
Check Gages Warning Light
This light will come on brie??y when you are starting the engine.
If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your coolant temperature and engine oil pressure gages to see if they are in the warning zones.
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Fuel Gage
The fuel gage, when the ignition is on, tells you about how much fuel you have left in your tank.
The gage will ??rst indicate empty before you are out of fuel, and you should get more fuel as soon as possible.
Listed are four situations you may experience with your fuel gage:
??At the gas station, the fuel pump shuts off before the gage reads full.
??It takes a little more or less fuel to ??ll up than the fuel gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank??s capacity to ??ll the tank.
??The gage moves a little when you turn a corner or speed up.
??The gage doesn??t go back to empty when you turn off the ignition.
None of these indicate a problem with the fuel gage.
186
Audio System(s)
Determine which radio your vehicle has and then read the pages following to familiarize yourself with its features.
Driving without distraction is a necessity for a safer driving experience. See Defensive Driving on page 228. By taking a few moments to read this manual and get familiar with your vehicle??s
audio system, you can use it with less effort, as well as take advantage of its features. While your vehicle is parked, set up your audio system by presetting your favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving conditions permit, you can tune to
your favorite stations using the presets and steering wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
{CAUTION:
This system provides you with a far greater access to audio stations and song listings. Giving extended attention to entertainment tasks while driving can cause a crash and you or others can be injured or killed. Always keep your eyes on the road and your mind on the drive ??? avoid engaging in extended searching while driving.
Keeping your mind on the drive is important for safe driving. Here are some ways in which you can help avoid distraction while driving.
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While your vehicle is parked:
??Familiarize yourself with all of its controls.
??Familiarize yourself with its operation.
??Set up your audio system by presetting your favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite radio stations using the presets and steering wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
Notice: Before adding any sound equipment to your vehicle, such as an audio system, CD player, CB radio, mobile telephone, or
Notice: The chime signals related to safety belts, parking brake, and other functions
of your vehicle operate through the radio/entertainment system. If that equipment is replaced or additional equipment is added to your vehicle, the chimes may not work. Make sure that replacement or additional equipment is compatible with your vehicle before installing it. See Accessories and Modi???cations on page 286.
Your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory Power (RAP). With RAP, the audio system can be played even after the ignition is turned off. See Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) on page 122 for more information.
188
Setting the Time for Radios without Radio Data Systems (RDS)
Press and hold the HR or MIN arrow for
two seconds. Then press HR until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold MIN until the correct minute appears on the display.
The time may be set with the ignition on or off.
Setting the Time for Radios with Radio Data Systems (RDS)
The radio may have a button marked with an H or HR to represent hours and an M or MN to represent minutes.
Press and hold the hour button until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold
the minute button until the correct minute appears on the display. The time can be set with the ignition on or off.
To synchronize the time with an FM station broadcasting Radio Data System (RDS) information, press and hold the hour and minute buttons at the same time until RDS TIME appears on the display. To accept this time, press and hold the hour and minute buttons, at the same time, for another two seconds. If the time is
not available from the station, NO UPDAT (update) will appear on the display.
RDS time is broadcast once a minute. After tuning to an RDS broadcast station, it may take a few minutes for the time to update.
189
Playing the Radio
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off.
VOL (Volume): Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or to decrease the volume.
RCL (Recall): Press this knob to switch the display between the radio station frequency and the time. When the ignition is off, press this knob to display the time.
Finding a Station
AM FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, or AM. The display shows the selection.
TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations.
oSEEK p: Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there.
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for two seconds until you hear a beep. The radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning.
To scan preset stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for more than four seconds until you hear two beeps. The radio goes to the ??rst preset station stored on your pushbuttons, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next preset station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning presets.
The radio only seeks and scans stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band.
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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 AM FM to select FM1, FM2, or AM.
3.Tune in the desired station.
4.Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station that was set returns.
5.Repeat Steps
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
AUDIO: To adjust the bass and the treble, press and release AUDIO until BAS (bass) or TRE (treble) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or the down arrow to increase or
to decrease. If a station is weak or has static, decrease the treble.
To adjust bass or treble to the middle position, select BAS or TRE. Then press and hold AUDIO for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. B and a zero or T and a zero appears on the display.
To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, ??rst end out
of audio mode by pressing another button, causing the radio to perform that function, or by waiting ??ve seconds for the display to return to time
of day. Then press and hold AUDIO for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. CEN (center) appears on the display.
191
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, press and release the AUDIO button until BAL (balance) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or
the down arrow to move the sound toward the right or the left speakers.
To adjust the fade between the front and the rear speakers, press and release AUDIO until FAD (fade) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or the down arrow to move
the sound toward the front or the rear speakers.
The fade feature may not be available on all radio systems.
To adjust balance or fade to the middle position, select BAL or FAD. Then press and hold AUDIO for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. B and a zero or F and a zero appears on the display.
To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, ??rst end out
of audio mode by pressing another button, causing the radio to perform that function, or by waiting ??ve seconds for the display to return to time
of day. Then press and hold AUDIO for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. CEN appears on the display.
Radio Messages
CAL (Calibration): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If
CAL appears on the display it means that the radio has not been con??gured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to the dealer for service.
LOC (Locked): This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK?? system has locked up. Take the vehicle to the dealer for service.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer.
192
Radio with CD
Playing the Radio
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off.
VOL (Volume): Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or to decrease the volume.
RCL (Recall): Press this knob to switch the display between the radio station frequency and the time. When the ignition is off, press this knob to display the time.
Finding a Station
AM FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, and AM. The display shows the selection.
TUNE: Turn this knob to select radio stations.
oSEEK p: Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous station and stay there.
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for two seconds until you hear a beep. The radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning.
To scan preset stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for more than four seconds until you hear two beeps. The radio goes to the ??rst preset station stored on the pushbuttons, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next preset station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning presets.
The radio only seeks and scans stations, with a strong signal, that are in the selected band.
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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 AM FM to select FM1, FM2, or AM.
3.Tune in the desired station.
4.Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station that was set returns.
5.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
AUDIO: To adjust the bass or the treble, press and release the AUDIO button until BAS (bass)
or TRE (treble) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or the down arrow to increase
or to decrease. If a station is weak or has static, decrease the treble.
To adjust bass or treble to the middle position, select BAS or TRE. Then press and hold the AUDIO button for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. B and a zero or T and a zero appears on the display.
To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, ??rst end out
of audio mode by pressing another button, causing the radio to perform that function, or by waiting ??ve seconds for the display to return to the time of day. Then press and hold the AUDIO button for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. CEN (center) appears on the display.
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, press and release the AUDIO button until BAL (balance) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or
the down arrow to move the sound toward the right or the left speakers.
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To adjust the fade between the front and the rear speakers, press and release the AUDIO button until FAD (fade) appears on the display. Then press and hold the up or the down arrow to move the sound toward the front or the rear speakers.
The fade feature may not be available on all radio systems.
To adjust balance or fade to the middle position, select BAL or FAD. Then press and hold AUDIO for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. B and a zero or F and a zero appears on the display.
To adjust both tone controls and both speaker controls to the middle position, ??rst end out
of audio mode by pressing another button, causing the radio to perform that function, or by waiting ??ve seconds for the display to return to the time of day. Then press and hold the AUDIO button for more than two seconds until you hear a beep. CEN appears on the display.
Radio Messages
CAL (Calibration): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If
CAL appears on the display it means that the radio has not been con??gured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to the dealer for service.
LOC (Locked): This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK?? system has locked up. Take the vehicle to the dealer for service.
If any error occurs repeatedly or cannot be corrected, contact your dealer.
Playing a CD
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. The player pulls it in and the CD should begin playing. CD appears on the display. If you want to insert a CD with the ignition off, ??rst press the eject button or the RCL knob.
If you insert a CD with the radio off and the ignition on, it starts to play
If the ignition or radio is turned off, with a CD in the player, it stays in the player. When the ignition or radio is turned on, the CD starts playing where it stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
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As each new track starts to play, the track number appears on the display.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single CDs with an adapter ring.
If playing a
If there is no apparent damage, try a known good CD.
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 marking pen.
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. When using the CD player, use only CDs in good condition without any label, load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player and the loading slot free of foreign materials, liquids, and debris.
If an error appears on the display, see ??CD Messages?? later in this section.
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the beginning of the current track if more
than eight seconds have played. The track number appears on the display. If this pushbutton is
held or pressed more than once, the player continues moving backward through the CD.
2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track. The track number appears on the display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more
than once, the player continues moving forward through the CD.
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to reverse quickly within a track. Release this pushbutton to play the passage. The elapsed time of the track appears on the display.
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4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to advance quickly within a track. Release this pushbutton to play the passage. The elapsed time of the track appears on the display.
5 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RND appears on the display. Press RDM again to turn off random play. OFF appears on the display.
6 RPT (Repeat): Press this pushbutton once to hear a track over again. RPT appears on the display. The current track continues to repeat. Press RPT again to turn off repeat play. OFF appears on the display.
oSEEK p: Press the right or the left arrow to go to the next or to the previous track. The track number appears on the display. If either arrow is held or pressed more than once,
the player continues moving backward or forward through the CD.
RCL (Recall): Press this knob to see the current track number or how long the current track has been playing.
AM FM: Press this button to listen to the radio when a CD is playing. The inactive CD remains safely inside the radio for future listening.
CD: Press this button to play a CD when listening to the radio. CD appears on the display if a CD
is loaded.
Z(Eject): Press this button to eject a CD. Eject may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. CDs may be loaded with the ignition and radio off if this button is pressed ??rst.
If the CD is not removed after 25 seconds, the CD automatically pulls back into the player. If the
CD is pushed back into the player, before
the 25 second time period is complete, the player senses an error and tries to eject the CD
several times before stopping.
Do not repeatedly press the CD eject button to eject a CD after you have tried to push it manually. The player??s
each press of eject, causing the player to not eject the CD until the
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If the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons:
??It is very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the CD should play.
??You are driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smoother, the CD should play.
??The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.
??The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again.
??There may have been a problem while burning the CD.
??The label may be caught in the CD player.
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good CD.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio displays an error message, write it down
and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.
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Radio Data System (RDS)
The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information.
With RDS, the radio can do the following:
??Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming
??Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies
??Display messages from radio stations
This system relies upon receiving speci??c information from these stations and only works when the information is available. In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect information that causes the radio features to work improperly. If this happens, contact the radio station.
While the radio is tuned to an RDS station, the station name or call letters appear on the display instead of the frequency. RDS stations may
also provide the time of day, a program type (PTY) for current programming, and the name of the program being broadcast.
Playing the Radio
PWR (Power): Press this knob to turn the system on and off.
o VOL p(Volume): Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or to decrease the volume.
INFO (Information): Press this knob to switch the display between the radio station frequency and the time. When the ignition is off, press this
knob to display the time.
For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS. The display options are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the name of the program (if available).
To change the default on the display, press the INFO knob until you see the desired display, then hold the knob until you hear a beep.
The selected display is now the default.
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AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, the audio system adjusts automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive by increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases.
Set the volume at the desired level. Press this button to select LOW, MEDIUM, or HIGH. AVOL appears on the display. Each higher setting provides more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds. To turn automatic volume off, press this button until AVOL OFF appears on the display.
Finding a Station
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2 or AM. The display shows the selection.
oTUNE p: Turn this knob to select radio stations.
??SEEK ??: Press either the SEEK or the TYPE arrows to go to the next or to the previous
station and stay there.
The radio only seeks stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band.
??SCAN ??: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next station. Press either
the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning.
To scan preset stations, press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than four seconds. PSCN appears on the display and you will hear a double beep. The radio goes
to a preset station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next preset station. Press either
the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning presets.
The radio only scans stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band.
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Setting Preset Stations
Up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2 and six AM), can be programed 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 until you hear a beep. Whenever that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station that was set returns for that pushbutton.
5.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
To store an equalization setting to a preset station perform the following:
1.Tune to the preset station.
2.Press and release the AUTO EQ button to select the equalization setting.
Once the equalization no longer appears on the display, the equalization is set for that preset station.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob until BASS or TREB appears on the display. Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The display
shows the bass or treble level. If a station is weak or has static, decrease the treble.
To adjust the bass and treble to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio produces one beep and adjust the display level to the middle position.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED appears on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display level adjusts to
the middle position.
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button to select customized equalization settings designed for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical. Selecting CUSTOM or changing bass or treble, returns the EQ to the manual bass and treble settings.
The radio saves separate AUTO EQ settings for each preset and source.
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Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until BAL appears on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the right or the left speakers.
To adjust the fade between the front and the rear speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until FADE appears on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the front or the rear speakers.
The fade feature may not be available on all radio systems.
To adjust the balance and fade to the middle position, push the AUDIO knob, then push it again and hold it until the radio produces one beep. The balance and fade adjusts to the middle position and the display shows the speaker balance.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker control is displayed. ALL CENTERED appears on the display, you will hear a beep, and the display level adjusts to
the middle position.
Finding a Program Type (PTY)
Station (RDS)
To select and ??nd a desired PTY perform the following:
1.Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode. TYPE and a PTY appears on the display.
2.Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY.
3.Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and release either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows to select and to take you to the PTY??s ??rst station.
4.To go to another station within that PTY and the PTY is displayed, press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows once. If the PTY is
not displayed, go back to Step 1.
5.Press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows to exit program type select mode.
If the radio cannot ??nd the desired program type, NONE appears on the display and the radio returns to the last station you were listening to.
202
SCAN: Scan the stations within a PTY by performing the following:
1.Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode. TYPE and the last selected PTY appears on the display.
2.Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY.
3.Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and hold either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows for two seconds, and the radio begins scanning the stations in the PTY.
4.Press either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows to stop at a station.
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. To turn alternate frequency on, press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF ON appears on the display. The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency.
To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF OFF appears on the display. The radio does not switch to other stations.
Setting Preset PTYs (RDS)
These buttons have factory PTY presets.
Up to 12 PTYs (six FM1 and six FM2), can be programmed on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following steps:
1.Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2.
2.Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode. TYPE and the last selected PTY appears on the display.
3.Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY.
4.Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the PTY that was set returns.
5.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
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RDS Messages
INFO (Information): If the current station has a message, the information symbol appears on
the display. Press this button to see the message. The message may display the artist, song title, call in phone numbers, etc.
If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the message appears every three seconds. To scroll through the message, press and release the INFO button. A new group of words appears on the display after every press of the button. Once the complete message has displayed, the information symbol disappears from the display until another new message is received. The last message can be displayed by pressing the INFO button. You can view the last message until a new message is received or a different station is tuned to.
Radio Messages
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio has not been con??gured properly for the vehicle and must be returned to your dealer for service.
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK?? system has locked up. Take
the vehicle to your dealer for service.
If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer.
Playing a Cassette Tape
The tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. The longer side with
the tape visible should face to the right. If you hear nothing or hear a garbled sound, the tape may not be in squarely. Press the eject button to remove the tape and start over.
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If the ignition and radio are off, press the eject button or the INFO knob to insert and to begin play of a tape. If the ignition is on and the radio is
off, the tape can be inserted and begins playing.
While the tape is playing, use the VOL, AUDIO, and SEEK controls just as you do for the
radio. The cassette tape symbol appears on the display and an arrow showing which side of
the tape is playing. The tape player plays the other side of the tape when it reaches the end.
Cassette tape adapter kits for portable CD players works in the cassette tape player. See ??CD Adapter Kits?? later for more information.
The tape bias is set automatically when a metal or chrome tape is inserted.
If an error appears on the display, see ??Cassette Tape Messages?? later in this section.
1 PREV (Previous): The tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for previous to work. Press this pushbutton to
go to the previous selection on the tape if the current selection has been playing for less
than three seconds. If pressed when the current selection has been playing from three to
13 seconds, it goes to the beginning of the
previous selection or the beginning of the current selection, depending on the position on the tape. If pressed when the current selection has been playing for more than 13 seconds, it goes to the beginning of the current selection.
SEEK and a negative number appears on the display while the cassette player is in the previous mode. Pressing this pushbutton multiple times increases the number of selections to be searched back, up to ???9.
2 NEXT: The tape must have at least
three seconds of silence between each selection for next to work. Press this pushbutton to go
to the next selection on the tape. Pressing this pushbutton multiple times, in next mode, increases the number of selections to be searched forward. SEEK and a positive number appears on the display.
3 REV (Reverse): Press this pushbutton to quickly reverse the tape. The radio plays while the tape reverses. Press it again to return to playing speed. The station frequency and REV appears on the display. Select stations during reverse operation by using TUNE and SEEK.
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4 FWD (Forward): Press this pushbutton to quickly advance the tape. The radio plays while the tape advances. Press this pushbutton again to return to playing speed. The station frequency and FWD appears on the display. Select stations during forward operation by using TUNE and SEEK.
5 X SIDE: Press this pushbutton to play the other side of the tape.
??SEEK ??: The right arrow is the same as the NEXT pushbutton, and the left arrow is the same as the PREV pushbutton. If either arrow is held or pressed more than once, the player
continues moving forward or backward through the tape. SEEK and a positive or negative number appears on the display.
??SCAN ??: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio goes to the next selection, plays for
10 seconds, then goes to the next selection.
Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again, to stop scanning. The tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for scan to work.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a cassette tape or CD is playing. The inactive tape or CD remains safely inside the radio for future listening.
TAPE DISC: Press this button to play a cassette tape or CD when listening to the radio. The inactive tape or CD remains safely inside the radio for future listening.
Z(Eject): Press this button to stop a tape when it is playing or to eject a tape when it is not playing. Eject may be activated with the radio off. Cassette tapes may be loaded with the radio
off if this button is pressed ??rst.
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Cassette Tape Messages
CHK TAPE (Check Tape): If this message appears on the display, the tape does not play due to one of the following errors:
??The tape is tight and the player cannot turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, the tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is working properly.
??The tape is broken. Try a new tape.
??The tape is wrapped around the tape head. Attempt to get the cassette out. Try a new tape.
CLEAN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It still plays tapes, but it should be cleaned as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See Care of the Cassette Tape Player on page 224.
If the cassette tape is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good cassette.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio displays an error message, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.
CD Adapter Kits
It is possible to use a portable CD player with the cassette tape player after activating the bypass feature on your tape player.
To activate the bypass feature, perform the following steps:
1.Turn the ignition on.
2.Turn the radio off.
3.Press and hold the TAPE DISC button for ??ve seconds. READY appears on the display and the tape symbol on the display ??ashes, indicating the feature is active.
4.Insert the adapter into the cassette tape slot. It powers up the radio and begins playing.
The override feature remains active until the eject button is pressed.
207
Playing a CD
Insert a CD part way into the slot, label side up. The player pulls it in and the CD should begin playing. If you want to insert a CD with the ignition off, ??rst press the eject button or the INFO knob.
If the ignition or radio is turned off with the CD in the player, it stays in the player. When the ignition or radio is turned on, the CD starts playing where it stopped, if it was the last selected
audio source.
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol appears on the display. As each new track starts to play, the track number appears on the display.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single CDs with an adapter ring.
If playing a
difficulty in ??nding 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. If
the surface of the CD is soiled, see Care of Your CDs on page 225 for more information.
If there is no apparent damage, try a known good CD.
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 marking pen.
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. When using the CD player, use only CDs in good condition without any label, load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player and the loading slot free of foreign materials, liquids, and debris.
208
If an error appears on the display, see ??CD Messages?? later in this section.
1 PREV (Previous): Press this pushbutton to go to the beginning of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. TRACK and the track number appears on the display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more than once, the player continues moving backward through the CD.
2 NEXT: Press this pushbutton to go to the next track. TRACK and the track number appears
on the display. If this pushbutton is held or pressed more than once, the player continues moving forward through the CD.
3 REV (Reverse): Press and hold this pushbutton to quickly reverse within a track. Press and hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to reverse at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds
to reverse at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to play the passage. ET and the elapsed time of the track appears on the display.
4 FWD (Forward): Press and hold this pushbutton to quickly advance within a track. Press and
hold this pushbutton for less than two seconds to advance at six times the normal playing speed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds
to advance at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release this pushbutton to play the passage.
ET and the elapsed time of the track appears on the display.
6 RDM (Random): Press this pushbutton to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM ON appears on the display. RDM T and the track number appears on the display when each track starts to play. Press this pushbutton again to turn off random play. RDM OFF appears on the display.
??SEEK ??: Press the left arrow to go to the start of the current or to the previous track. Press the right arrow to go to the start of the next track. If either arrow is held or pressed more than once, the player continues moving backward or forward through the CD.
209
??SCAN ??: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than two seconds
until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio goes to the next track, plays for 10 seconds, then goes to the next track. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again, to stop scanning.
INFO (Information): Press this knob to see how long the current track has been playing. ET
and the elapsed time appears on the display. To change the default on the display, track or elapsed time, press the knob until you see the desired display, then hold the knob for
two seconds. The radio produces one beep and the selected display is now the default.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a cassette tape or CD is playing. The inactive tape or CD remains safely inside the radio for future listening.
TAPE DISC: Press this button to play a cassette tape or CD when listening to the radio. The inactive tape or CD remains safely inside the radio for future listening.
Z(Eject): Press this button to stop a CD when it is playing or to eject a CD when it is not playing. Eject may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. CDs may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this button is pressed ??rst.
If the CD is not removed after 25 seconds, the CD automatically pulls back into the player. If the CD is pushed back into the player, before the 25 second time period is complete, the player senses an error and tries to eject the CD several times before stopping.
Do not repeatedly press the CD eject button to eject a CD after you have tried to push it manually. The player??s
each press of eject, causing the player to not eject the CD until the
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CD Messages
If the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons:
??It is very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the CD should play.
??You are driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smoother, the CD should play.
??The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.
??The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again.
??There may have been a problem while burning the CD.
??The label may be caught in the CD player.
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good CD.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio displays an error message, write it down
and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.
Radio with
Playing the Radio
PWR (Power): Push this knob to turn the system on and off.
o VOLUME p: Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or to decrease the volume.
211
INFO (Information): When the ignition is off, press this knob to display the time.
For RDS, press the INFO knob to change what appears on the display while using RDS. The display options are station name, RDS station frequency, PTY, and the name of the program (if available).
To change the default on the display, press the INFO knob until you see the desired display, then press and hold the knob until you hear a beep. The selected display is now the default.
AUTO VOL (Automatic Volume): With automatic volume, the audio system adjusts automatically
to make up for road and wind noise as you drive by increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases.
Set the volume at the desired level. Press this button to select MIN, MED, or MAX. AUTO VOL appears on the display. Each higher setting provides more volume compensation at faster vehicle speeds. To turn automatic volume
off, press this button until AUTO VOL OFF appears on the display.
Finding a Station
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, or AM. The display shows the selection.
oTUNE p: Turn this knob to select radio stations.
??SEEK ??: Press either the SEEK or the TYPE arrows to go to the next or to the previous
station and stay there.
The radio only seeks stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band.
??SCAN ??: Press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for two seconds until SCN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning.
To scan preset stations, press and hold either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows for more than
four seconds. PSC appears on the display and you will hear a double beep. The radio goes to a preset station, plays for a few seconds, then goes to the next preset station. Press either the SCAN or the TYPE arrows again to stop scanning presets.
The radio only scans stations with a strong signal that are in the selected band.
212
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 until you hear a beep. Whenever that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the station that was set returns for that pushbutton.
5.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
To store an equalization setting to a preset station perform the following:
1.Tune to the preset station.
2.Press and release the AUTO EQ button to select the equalization setting.
Once the equalization no longer appears on the display, the equalization is set for that preset station.
3.To resave the preset, press and hold the preset button until a beep is heard.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Middle/Treble)
AUDIO: Push and release the AUDIO knob
until BASS, MID, or TREB appears on the display. Turn the knob to increase or to decrease. The display shows the bass, midrange, or treble level. If a station is weak or has static, decrease the treble.
To adjust the bass, midrange, and treble to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob. The radio produces one beep and adjusts the display level to the middle position.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob when no tone or speaker controls are displayed. ALL CENTERED appears on the display and you will hear a beep.
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press this button to select customized equalization settings designed for country/western, jazz, talk, pop, rock, and classical.
To return to the manual mode, press the AUTO EQ button until CUSTOM appears on the display. Then manually adjust the bass, midrange, and treble using the AUDIO knob.
213
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
AUDIO: To adjust the balance between the right and the left speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until BAL appears on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the right or the left speakers.
To adjust the fade between the front and rear speakers, push and release the AUDIO knob until FAD appears on the display. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the front or the rear speakers.
The fade feature may not be available on all radio systems.
To adjust the balance or fade to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob while BAL or FAD is displayed. The radio produces one beep and adjusts the display level to the middle position.
To adjust all tone and speaker controls to the middle position, push and hold the AUDIO knob while no tone or speaker controls are displayed. ALL CENTERED appears on the display and you will hear a beep.
Radio Data System (RDS)
The audio system has a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS features are available for use only on FM stations that broadcast RDS information.
With RDS, the radio can do the following:
??Seek to stations broadcasting the selected type of programming
??Receive announcements concerning local and national emergencies
??Display messages from radio stations
This system relies upon receiving speci??c information from these stations and only works when the information is available. In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect information that causes the radio features to work improperly. If this happens, contact the radio station.
While the radio is tuned to an RDS station, the station name or call letters appear on the display instead of the frequency. RDS stations may
also provide the time of day, a program type (PTY) for current programming, and the name of the program being broadcast.
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Finding a Program Type (PTY) Station
To select and ??nd a desired PTY perform the following:
1.Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode.
2.Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY.
3.Once the desired PTY is displayed, press either the TYPE or the SEEK arrows to select and to take you to the PTY??s ??rst station.
4.To cancel the seek, press any of the TYPE or SEEK arrows. This also exits the program type seek mode and returns to the last tuned station.
SCAN: Scan the stations within a PTY by performing the following:
1.Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode.
2.Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY.
3.Once the desired PTY is displayed, press and hold either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows for two seconds, and the radio begins scanning the stations in the PTY.
4.Press either the TYPE or the SCAN arrows to stop scanning.
BAND (Alternate Frequency): Alternate frequency allows the radio to switch to a stronger station with the same program type. To turn alternate frequency on, press and hold BAND for two seconds. AF ON appears on the display. The radio may switch to stations with a stronger frequency.
To turn alternate frequency off, press and hold BAND again for two seconds. AF OFF appears on the display. The radio does not switch to other stations.
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Setting Preset PTYs (RDS Only)
These pushbuttons have factory PTY presets. Up to 12 PTYs (six FM1 and six FM2), can
be programmed on the six numbered pushbuttons, by performing the following steps:
1.Press BAND to select FM1 or FM2.
2.Press the TYPE button to activate program type select mode.
3.Turn the TYPE knob or press and release the TYPE button to select a PTY.
4.Press and hold one of the six numbered pushbuttons until you hear a beep. Whenever that numbered pushbutton is pressed, the PTY that was set returns.
5.Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.
RDS Messages
INFO (Information): If the current station has a message, INFO appears on the display. Press this button to see the message. The message may display the artist, song title, call in phone numbers, etc.
If the entire message is not displayed, parts of the message appears every three seconds. To scroll through the message, press and release the INFO button. A new group of words appears on the display after every press of this button. Once the complete message has been displayed, INFO disappears from the display until another new message is received. The last message can be displayed by pressing the INFO button. You can view the last message until a new message is received or a different station is tuned to.
Radio Messages
CAL ERR (Calibration Error): The audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CAL ERR appears on the display, it means that the radio has not been con??gured properly for the vehicle and must be returned to your dealer for service.
LOCKED: This message is displayed when the THEFTLOCK?? system has locked up. Take
the vehicle to your dealer for service.
If any error occurs repeatedly, or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer.
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Playing a CD
If the ignition or radio is turned off, with a CD in the player, it stays in the player. When the ignition or radio is turned on, the CD starts playing where it stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol appears on the display. As each new track starts to play, the track number appears on the display.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single CDs with an adapter ring.
If playing a
If there is no apparent damage, try a known good CD.
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 marking pen.
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. When using the CD player, use only CDs in good condition without any label, load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player and the loading slot free of foreign materials, liquids, and debris.
If an error appears on the display, see ??CD Messages?? later in this section.
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LOAD: Press this button to load CDs into the CD player. This CD player holds up to six CDs.
To insert one CD, do the following:
1.Turn the ignition on.
2.Press and release the LOAD button.
3.Wait for the indicator light, located to the right of the slot, to turn green.
4.Load a CD. Insert the CD partway into the slot, label side up. The player pulls the CD in.
To insert multiple CDs, do the following:
1.Turn the ignition on.
2.Press and hold the LOAD button for two seconds.
You will hear a beep and the indicator light, located to the right of the slot, begins to ??ash and MULTI LOAD # appears on the display.
3.Once the light stops ??ashing and turns green, INSERT CD # appears on the display, load a CD. Insert the CD partway into the slot,
label side up. The player pulls the CD in.
Once the CD is loaded, the indicator light begins ??ashing again. Once the light stops ??ashing and turns green, you can load another CD. The CD player takes up to six CDs.
Do not try to load more than six.
To load more than one CD but less than six, complete Steps 1 through 3. When ??nished loading CDs, press the LOAD button to cancel the
loading function. The radio begins to play the last CD loaded.
If more than one CD has been loaded, a number for each CD appears on the display.
Playing a Speci???c Loaded CD
For every CD loaded, a number appears on the display. To play a speci??c CD, ??rst press the CD AUX button (if not already in CD mode), then press the numbered pushbutton that corresponds to the CD. A small bar appears under the CD number that is playing and the track number appears on the display.
If an error appears on the display, see ??CD Messages?? later in this section.
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CD Z(Eject): Press this button to eject CD(s).
To eject the CD that is currently playing, press and release this button.
To eject multiple CDs, do the following:
1.Press and hold the CD eject button for ??ve seconds.
You will hear a beep and the indicator light, located to the right of the slot, begins to ??ash and EJECT ALL appears on the display.
2.Once the light stops ??ashing, REMOVE CD # appears on the display. The CD ejects and can be removed.
Once the CD is removed, the indicator light begins ??ashing again and another CD ejects.
To stop ejecting the CDs, press the LOAD or the eject button.
If the CD is not removed, after 25 seconds, the CD automatically pulls back into the player.
If CD is pushed back into the player, before the 25 second time period is complete, the player senses an error and tries to eject the CD several times before stopping.
Do not repeatedly press the CD eject button to eject a CD after you have tried to push it in manually. The player??s
{ REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button to reverse quickly within a track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The elapsed time of the track appears on the display. Release the button to play the passage.
FWD |(Forward): Press and hold this button to advance quickly within a track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The elapsed time of the track appears on the display. Release the button to play the passage.
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RPT (Repeat): With repeat, one track or an entire CD can be repeated.
To use repeat, do the following:
??To repeat the track you are listening to, press and release the RPT button. RPT appears on the display. Press RPT again to turn off repeat play.
??To repeat the CD you are listening to, press and hold the RPT button for two seconds. RPT appears on the display. Press RPT again to turn off repeat play.
RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order, on one CD or on all of the CDs. To use random, do one of the following:
??To play the tracks on the CD you are listening to in random order, press and release the RDM button. RANDOM ONE appears on the display. Press RDM again to turn off random play.
??To play the tracks on all of the CDs that are loaded in random order, press and hold RDM for more than two seconds. You will hear a beep and RANDOM ALL appears on the display. Press RDM again to turn off random play.
AUTO EQ (Automatic Equalization): Press AUTO EQ to select the equalization setting while playing a CD. The equalization is stored whenever a CD is played. For more information on AUTO EQ, see ??AUTO EQ?? listed previously in this section.
??SEEK ??: Press the left arrow to go to the start of the current track (if more than 10 seconds have played), or to go to the previous track (if less than 10 seconds have played). Press the right arrow to go to the next track. If either arrow is held or pressed more than once, the player continues moving backward or forward through the CD.
??SCAN ??: To scan one CD, press and hold either SCAN arrow for more than two seconds until SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. The radio goes to the next track, plays for 10 seconds, then goes to the next track. Press either SCAN arrow again, to stop scanning.
To scan all loaded CDs, press and hold either SCAN arrow for more than four seconds until
CD SCAN appears on the display and you hear a beep. Use this feature to listen to 10 seconds
of the ??rst track of each loaded CD. Press either SCAN arrow again, to stop scanning.
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INFO (Information): Press this knob to see how long the current track has been playing. To change the default on the display, track or elapsed time, press the knob until you see the desired display, then press and hold the knob until the radio beeps. The selected display is now the default.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a CD is playing. The inactive CD(s) remains safely inside the radio for future listening.
Using Song List Mode
The
To save tracks into the song list feature, perform the following steps:
1.Turn the CD player on and load it with at least one CD. See ??LOAD CD?? listed previously in this section for more information.
2.Check to see that the CD changer is not in song list mode.
3.Select the desired CD by pressing the numbered pushbutton and then use the SEEK or TYPE right arrow to locate the track to
be saved. The track begins to play.
4.Press and hold the SONG LIST button to save the track into memory. When SONG LIST is pressed, one beep will sound.
After two seconds of continuously pressing the SONG LIST button, two beeps will sound to con??rm the track has been saved.
5.Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for saving other selections.
To play the song list, press the SONG LIST button. One beep will sound and
Seek through the song list by using the SEEK or TYPE arrows. Seeking past the last saved
track returns to the ??rst saved track.
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To delete tracks from the song list, perform the following steps:
1.Turn the CD player on.
2.Press the SONG LIST button to turn song list on.
3.Press either SEEK or TYPE arrow to select the desired track to be deleted.
4.Press and hold the SONG LIST button for two seconds. When SONG LIST is pressed, one beep will sound. After two seconds
of continuously pressing the SONG LIST button, two beeps will sound to con??rm that the track has been deleted.
After a track has been deleted, the remaining tracks are moved up the list. When another track is added to the song list, the track is added to the end of the list.
To delete the entire song list, perform the following steps:
1.Turn the CD player on.
2.Press the SONG LIST button to turn song list on.
3.Press and hold the SONG LIST button for more than four seconds. One beep will sound, followed by two beeps after two seconds, and a ??nal beep will sound after four seconds.
If a CD is ejected, and the song list contains saved tracks from that CD, those tracks are automatically deleted from the song list. Any tracks saved to the song list again are added to the bottom of the list.
To end song list mode, press the SONG LIST button. One beep will sound and
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CD Messages
CHECK CD: If this message appears on the display and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the following reasons:
??It is very hot. When the temperature returns to normal, the CD should play.
??You are driving on a very rough road. When the road becomes smoother, the CD should play.
??The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.
??The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and try again.
??There may have been a problem while burning the CD.
??The label may be caught in the CD player.
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason, try a known good CD.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio displays an error message, write it down
and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.
THEFTLOCK?? is designed to discourage theft of your vehicle??s radio. The feature works automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identi??cation Number (VIN). If the radio is moved to a different vehicle, it will not operate and LOC will appear on the display.
With THEFTLOCK?? activated, the radio will not operate if stolen.
(RDS Radios)
THEFTLOCK?? is designed to discourage theft of your vehicle??s radio. The feature works automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identi??cation Number (VIN). If the radio is moved to a different vehicle, it will not operate and LOCKED will appear on the display.
When the radio and vehicle are turned off, the blinking red light indicates that THEFTLOCK?? is armed.
With THEFTLOCK?? activated, the radio will not operate if stolen.
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Radio Reception
You may experience frequency interference and static during normal radio reception if items such as cellphone chargers, vehicle convenience accessories, and external electronic devices
are plugged into the accessory power outlet.
If there is interference or static, unplug the item from the accessory power outlet.
AM
The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range can cause station frequencies to interfere with each other. For better radio reception, most AM
radio stations will boost the power levels during the day, and then reduce these levels during the night. Static can also occur when things like storms and power lines interfere with radio reception. When this happens, try reducing the treble on your radio.
FM Stereo
FM stereo will give the best sound, but FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to fade in and out.
Care of the Cassette Tape Player
A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes, or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight, and extreme
heat. If they are not, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player.
The tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. The radio may display CLEAN to indicate that the tape player has been used for 50 hours without resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but it should be cleaned as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. If there is a reduction in sound quality, try a known good cassette to see if the tape or the tape player is at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player.
For best results, use a scrubbing action,
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When cleaning the cassette tape player with the recommended
it is possible that the cassette may eject, because the cut tape detection feature on the radio may recognize it as a broken tape, in error. To prevent the cleaning cassette from being ejected, use the following steps:
1.Turn the ignition on.
2.Turn the radio off.
3.Press and hold the TAPE DISC button for ??ve seconds. READY will appear on the display and the cassette symbol will ??ash for ??ve seconds.
4.Insert the scrubbing action cleaning cassette.
5.Eject the cleaning cassette after the manufacturer??s recommended cleaning time.
When the cleaning cassette has been ejected, the cut tape detection feature will be active again.
A
After the player is cleaned, press and hold the eject button for ??ve seconds to reset the CLEAN indicator. The radio will display
Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before
the tape player is serviced.
Care of Your CDs
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. Make sure the wiping process starts from the center to the edge.
Do not touch the bottom side of a CD while handling it; this could damage the surface. Pick up CDs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.
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Care of the CD Player
Do not use CD lens cleaners for CD players because the lens of the CD optics can become contaminated by lubricants.
Fixed Mast Antenna
The ??xed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, replace it.
Check occasionally to make sure the mast is still tightened to the fender. If tightening is required, tighten by hand, then with a wrench one quarter turn.
Chime Level Adjustment
The radio is used to adjust the vehicle??s chime level. To change the volume level of the chime, press and hold pushbutton 6 with the ignition on and the radio power off. The volume level will change from the normal level to loud,
and LOUD will appear on the radio display.
To change back to the default or normal setting, press and hold pushbutton 6 again. The volume level will change from the loud level to normal, and NORMAL will appear on the radio display. Each time the chime volume is changed,
three chimes will sound to indicate the change. Removing the radio and not replacing it with
a factory radio or chime module will disable vehicle chimes.
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Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle
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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 17.
{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. Anticipate what they might do and be ready.
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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
Many adults ?? by some estimates, nearly half the adult population ?? choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it is against the law in
every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological, and developmental reasons for these laws.
The obvious way to eliminate the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is ??too much?? if someone plans
to drive? It is a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things:
??The amount of alcohol consumed
??The drinker??s body weight
??The amount of food that is consumed before and during drinking
??The length of time it has taken the drinker to consume the alcohol
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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
It is the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis
(3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person??s 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.
There is a gender difference, too. Women generally have a lower relative percentage of body water than men. Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of
her same body weight will when each has the same number of drinks.
The law in most U.S. states, and throughout Canada, sets the legal limit at 0.08 percent.
In some other countries, the limit is even lower. For example, it is 0.05 percent in both France and Germany. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent.
The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we have seen, it depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks, and how quickly the person drinks them.
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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. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. ??I will be careful?? is not the right answer. What if
there is an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street?
A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.
There is something else about drinking and driving that many people do not know. Medical research shows that alcohol in a person??s system can make crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord, or heart. This means that when anyone who has been drinking ?? driver or passenger ?? is in a crash, that person??s chance of being killed or permanently disabled is
higher than if the person had not been drinking.
{CAUTION:
Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Your re???exes, perceptions, attentiveness, and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You can have a serious ??? or even fatal ??? collision if you drive after drinking. Please do not drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if you are with a group, designate a driver who will not drink.
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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.
Adding
Braking
See Brake System Warning Light on page 175.
Braking action involves perception time and reaction time.
First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That is perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That is reaction time.
Average reaction time is about
60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between your vehicle and others is important.
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road, whether it is pavement or gravel; the condition of the road, whether it is wet, dry, or icy; tire tread; the condition of the brakes; the weight of the vehicle; and the amount of brake force applied.
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Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts ?? heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking ?? rather than keeping pace with traffic.
This is a mistake. The brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. The brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
If your vehicle??s engine ever stops while you are driving, brake normally but do not pump the brakes. If you do, the pedal may get harder to push down. If the engine stops, you will still have some power brake assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push.
Adding
Your vehicle has the
When you start your engine and begin to drive away, ABS will check itself. You may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test is going on. This is normal.
If there is a problem with the ABS, this warning light will stay on. See
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Let us say the road is wet and you are driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here is what happens with ABS:
A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at both rear wheels.
ABS 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.
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.
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Remember: ABS 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. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have ABS.
Using ABS
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down ??rmly and let
Braking in Emergencies
With ABS, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking.
Locking Rear Axle
If your vehicle has this feature, your locking rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and the other does, this feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle.
StabiliTrak?? System
If your vehicle has StabiliTrak??, it combines
When you ??rst start your vehicle and begin to drive away, the system performs several diagnostic checks to ensure that it is working properly. You may hear or feel the system working. This is normal and does not mean there is a problem with your vehicle. The system should initialize before the vehicle reaches 20 mph (32 km/h). In
some cases, it may take approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) of driving before the system initializes.
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The following chart describes the StabiliTrak?? not ready light and the StabiliTrak?? indicator light.
For more information, see StabiliTrak?? Not Ready Light on page 177 and StabiliTrak?? Indicator Light on page 177.
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Pressing and holding the StabiliTrak?? button located on the instrument panel for more than ??ve seconds can turn off StabiliTrak?? and part of the
traction control system.
For your safety, the system can only be disabled when the vehicle speed is less than 20 mph
(32 km/h). You will hear three chimes and the StabiliTrak?? not ready light will come on.
To turn on the StabiliTrak?? system, press the StabiliTrak?? button again. StabiliTrak?? will automatically turn back on when the vehicle speed exceeds 20 mph (32 km/h). You will hear one chime and the StabiliTrak?? not ready light will turn off.
When the StabiliTrak?? system has been turned off you may still hear system noises as a result of the
It is recommended to leave the system on for normal driving conditions, but it may be necessary to turn the system off if your vehicle is stuck in sand, mud, ice or snow, and you want to
??rock?? your vehicle to attempt to free it. See If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 258.
StabiliTrak?? System Operation
The StabiliTrak?? system is normally on, except when the system is initializing or has been disabled with the StabiliTrak?? button. The StabiliTrak?? system will automatically activate to assist the driver in maintaining vehicle directional control in most driving conditions. When activated, the StabiliTrak?? system may reduce engine power to the wheels and apply braking to individual wheels as necessary to assist the driver with vehicle directional control. If your vehicle is in cruise control when the system activates, the StabiliTrak?? indicator light on the instrument panel will ??ash, and the cruise control will automatically disengage. When the StabiliTrak?? system is no longer active, you may
Control on page 151.
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The StabiliTrak?? system may also turn off automatically if it determines that a problem exists with the system. If the problem does not clear itself after restarting the vehicle, you should see your dealer for service.
Traction Control Operation
The traction control system is part of the StabiliTrak?? system. Traction control limits wheel spin by reducing engine power to the wheels (engine speed management) and by applying brakes to each individual wheel
If the
The traction control system may activate on dry or rough roads or under conditions such as heavy acceleration while turning or abrupt upshifts/ downshifts of the transmission. When this happens you may notice a reduction in acceleration, or may hear a noise or vibration. This is normal.
Adding
If your vehicle has
extra traction when needed.
This is like
You may experience a brief vehicle vibration upon acceleration when driving in slippery conditions. This is normal and is an indication that the
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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. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there is no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you have ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you will understand this.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you are in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.
Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems ?? steering and acceleration ?? have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control.
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you will want to go slower.
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your speed so you can ??drive?? through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.
Adding
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Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and ??nd 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.
Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes.
See Braking on page 232. It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or
right depending on the space available.
An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and
3 o??clock positions, you can turn it a full
180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.
The fact that such emergency situations are always possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety belts properly.
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You may ??nd that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you are driving.
If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to
Passing
The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a
lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds.
A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all traffic accidents ?? the
So here are some tips for passing:
??Drive ahead. Look down the road, to the sides, and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time.
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??Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it is all right to pass, providing the road ahead is clear. Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.
??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. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a running start that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for another opportunity.
??If other vehicles are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone is not trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot.
??Check your vehicle??s mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass.
When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your vehicle??s inside mirror, activate the right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. Remember that your vehicle??s passenger side outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.
??Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on
??Do not overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake lamps are not ??ashing, it may be slowing down or starting to turn.
??If you are being passed, make it easy for the following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease a little to the right.
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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. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving those conditions. But skids are always possible.
The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle??s three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels are not rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.
A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may
straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs.
Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel, or other material is on the road.
For safety, you will want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important
to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited.
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration, or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues ?? such as enough water, ice, or packed snow on the road to make a mirrored surface ?? and slow down when you have any doubt.
Remember: Any
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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.
??Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your vehicle??s headlamps can light up only so much road ahead.
??In remote areas, watch for animals.
??If you are tired, pull off the road in a safe place and rest.
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase.
A
What you do in the daytime can also affect your night vision. For example, if you spend the
day in bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you are driving, do not wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a
lot of things invisible.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to
to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare, as from a driver who does not lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps, slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into
the approaching headlamps.
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Keep the windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean ?? inside and out. Glare at night is made much worse by dirt on the glass. Even
the inside of the glass can build up a ??lm caused by dust. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and ??ash more than clean glass would, making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly.
Remember that the headlamps light up far less of a roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your eyes moving; that way, it is easier to pick out dimly lighted objects. Just as the headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness ?? the inability to see in dim light ?? and are not even aware of it.
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you cannot stop, accelerate, or turn as well because your
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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 wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer ??uid reservoir ??lled with washer ??uid. Replace
your windshield wiper inserts when they show signs of streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to separate from the inserts.
{CAUTION:
Wet brakes can cause accidents. They may not work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle.
After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.
Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you cannot, try to slow down before you hit them.
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. If you can see re??ections from trees, telephone poles,
or other vehicles, and raindrops dimple the water??s surface, there could be hydroplaning.
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There just is not a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.
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Driving Through Deep Standing Water
Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine???s air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you cannot avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly.
Driving Through Flowing Water
{CAUTION:
Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. If you try to drive through ???owing water, as you might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can be carried away. As little as six inches of ???owing water can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this happens, you and other vehicle occupants could drown. Do not ignore police warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious about trying to drive through ???owing water.
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
??Besides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted by road spray.
??Have good tires with proper tread depth. See Tires on page 342.
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City Driving
One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You will want
to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals.
Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:
??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
??Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You will save time and energy. See Freeway Driving on page 249.
??Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it. When a light turns green, and just before you start to move, check both ways for vehicles that have not cleared the intersection or may be running the red light.
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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.
a smooth traffic ??ow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane.
At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the ??ow. Try to merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors, and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the traffic ??ow.
Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to the posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it
is slower. Stay in the right lane unless you want to pass.
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Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use your turn signal.
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there is not another vehicle in your blind spot.
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move slightly slower at night.
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit.
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted.
Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
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 ??rst 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. Of course, you will ??nd experienced and able service experts in GM dealerships all across North America. They will be ready and willing to help if you need it.
250
Here are some things you can check before a trip:
??Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir
full? Are all windows clean inside and outside?
??Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
??Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels?
??Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
??Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
all in??ated to the recommended pressure?
??Weather Forecasts: What is the weather outlook along your route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system?
??Maps: Do you have
Highway Hypnosis
Is there actually such a condition as highway hypnosis? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever.
There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Do not let it happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the road in less than a second, and you could crash and be injured.
What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be aware that it can happen.
Then here are some tips:
??Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a comfortably cool interior.
??Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your instruments frequently.
??If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service, or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.
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Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in ??at or rolling terrain.
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 ??uid levels and also the brakes, tires,
cooling system, and transmission. 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. You could crash. Shift down to let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.
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{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.
??Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.
??Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the hill better.
??Stay in your own lane when driving on
??As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.
??You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or
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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 vehicle.
Also see Tires on page 342.
Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer ??uid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a ??ashlight, a red cloth, and re??ective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a
piece of old carpet, or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.
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.
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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. You can get wet ice when it is about freezing, 32??F (0??C), and freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving
on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there.
Whatever the condition ?? smooth ice, packed, blowing, or loose snow ?? drive with caution.
Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more.
The
on a slippery road. Even though you have ABS, you will want to begin stopping sooner than
you would on dry pavement. See
??Allow greater following distance on any slippery road.
??Watch for slippery spots. The road might be ??ne until you hit a spot that is covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the
sun cannot reach, such as around clumps of trees, behind buildings, or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you are actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.
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If You Are Caught in a Blizzard
If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay
with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the
snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe:
??Turn on your hazard ??ashers.
??Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you have been stopped by the snow.
??Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you do not have blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, ??oor
mats ?? anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.
You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.
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{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 the exhaust pipe and/or the fuel operated heater exhaust system, if equipped. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow does not collect there. If your vehicle has a diesel engine and a fuel operated heater, see ???Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)??? in the diesel engine supplement.
Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that is away from the wind. This will help keep CO out.
Run your engine only as long as you must.
This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery (or batteries) charged. You will need a
(or batteries) to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for a while.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. 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.
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If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow
In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will need to spin the wheels, but you do not want to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as rocking can help you get out when you are stuck, but you must use caution.
{CAUTION:
If you let your vehicle???s tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transmission or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment ???re or other damage. When you are stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Do not spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer.
Notice: Spinning the wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting the transmission back and forth, you can destroy the transmission.
For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see Tire Chains on page 360.
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
First, turn the steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around the front wheels. Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as
little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. By
slowly spinning the wheels in the forward and reverse directions, you will cause a rocking motion that may free your vehicle. If that does not get your vehicle out after a few tries, it may need to be towed out. If your vehicle does need to be
towed out, see Towing Your Vehicle on page 264.
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Loading Your Vehicle
It is very important to know how much weight your vehicle can carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo, and all
{CAUTION:
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.
Tire and Loading Information Label
Label Example
A vehicle speci??c Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the center pillar
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The Tire and Loading Information label also shows the size of the original equipment tires (C) and the recommended cold tire in??ation pressures (D). For more information on tires and in??ation see
Tires on page 342 and In???ation - Tire Pressure on page 350.
There is also important loading information on the vehicle Certi??cation/Tire label. It tells you the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) and
the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axle. See ??Certi??cation/Tire Label?? later in this section.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit
1.Locate the statement ??The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs?? on your vehicle??s placard.
2.Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.
3.Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.
4.The resulting ??gure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the ??XXX?? amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be ??ve 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.If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. See Towing
a Trailer on page 266 for important information on towing a trailer, towing safety rules and trailering tips.
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Example 1
Example 2
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Certi???cation/Tire Label
Example 3
Refer to your vehicle??s tire and loading information label for speci??c information about your vehicle??s capacity weight and seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers,
and cargo should never exceed your vehicle??s capacity weight.
A vehicle speci??c Certi??cation/Tire label is found on the rear edge of the driver??s door. The label shows the size of your vehicle??s original tires and the in??ation pressures needed to obtain the gross weight capacity of your vehicle. This is called Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo.
The Certi??cation/Tire label also tells you the maximum weights for the front and rear axles, called Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
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To ??nd out the actual loads on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a weigh station and weigh your vehicle. Your dealer can help you with this. Be sure to spread out your load equally on both sides of the centerline.
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the GAWR for either the front or rear axle.
And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out.
{CAUTION:
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.
{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 cargo area of your vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly.
???Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats.
???Do not leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle.
???When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
???Do not leave a seat folded down unless you need to.
When you carry removable items, you may need to put a limit on how many people you carry inside your vehicle. Be sure to weigh your vehicle before you buy and install the new equipment.
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Towing
Towing Your Vehicle
Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 424.
If you want to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes (such as behind a motorhome), see ??Recreational Vehicle Towing?? following.
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle behind another vehicle ?? such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as ??dinghy?? (towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground) and ??dolly?? (towing your vehicle with
two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a ??dolly??).
With the proper preparation and equipment, many vehicles can be towed in these ways. See ??Dinghy Towing?? and ??Dolly Towing?? following.
Here are some important things to consider before you do recreational vehicle 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.
??Is your vehicle ready to be towed? Just as you would prepare your vehicle for a long trip, you??ll want to make sure your vehicle is prepared to be towed.
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Dinghy Towing
Notice: If you tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Do not tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground.
Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with all four wheels on the ground. To properly
tow these vehicles, they should be placed on a platform trailer with all four wheels off the ground.
Notice: Towing an
Dolly Towing
Rear Towing
(Rear Wheels Off the Ground)
Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle from the rear:
1.Drive the vehicle onto the dolly.
2.Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 128 for more information.
3.Put the automatic transmission in PARK (P).
4.Follow the dolly manufacturer??s instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being
towed to the dolly and then the loaded dolly to the tow vehicle. Make sure the wheels are straight before towing.
Use an adequate clamping device to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position.
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5.Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is ??rmly attached to the tow vehicle.
6.Turn the ignition to LOCK.
If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for six weeks or more, remove the battery cable from the negative terminal (post) of the battery to prevent your battery from draining while towing.
Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with two wheels on the ground. To properly tow these vehicles, they should be placed on a platform trailer with all four wheels off the ground.
Notice: Towing an
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. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.
Notice: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs that would not be covered by your warranty. Always follow the instructions in this section and check with your dealer for more information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.
To identify the trailering capacity of your vehicle, you should read the information in ??Weight of the Trailer?? that appears later in this section.
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Trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in acceleration, braking, handling, durability and fuel economy.
Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly.
That??s the reason for this part. In it are many
this section carefully before you pull a trailer.
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If you do, here are some important points:
??There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you??ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police.
??Consider using a sway control. See ??Hitches?? later in this section.
??Don??t tow a trailer at all during the ??rst
500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.
??Then, during the ??rst 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.
??See also ??Driving on Grades?? later in this section.
Three important considerations have to do with weight:
??the weight of the trailer
??the weight of the trailer tongue
??and the weight on your vehicle??s tires
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Tow/Haul Mode
Tow/haul is designed to assist while your vehicle is pulling a large or heavy load or trailer. Tow/haul is most useful while pulling such a load in rolling terrain, in
??Reduce the frequency and improve the predictability of transmission shifts,
??provide the same solid shift feel when pulling a heavy load as when the vehicle is unloaded,
??improve control of vehicle speed while requiring less throttle pedal activity.
Press this button located to the right of the steering wheel
on the instrument panel to turn tow/haul
mode on and off.
While activated, the indicator light on the instrument panel will be on.
Tow/haul mode will turn off automatically when the ignition is turned off. See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 185.
Tow/haul is most effective when the vehicle and trailer combined weight is at least 75 percent of the vehicle??s Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). See ??Weight of the Trailer?? later in this section.
Driving with tow/haul activated without a heavy load will cause reduced fuel economy and unpleasant engine and transmission driving characteristics, but will not cause damage.
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Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. It can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle, and the amount of tongue weight the vehicle can carry.
See ??Weight of the Trailer Tongue?? later in this section for more information.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight
of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.
The following charts show how much your trailer can weigh, based upon vehicle model and options.
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270
271
*The Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo equipment and conversion. The GCWR for your vehicle should not be exceeded.
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at our Customer Assistance Offices. See Customer Assistance Offices on page 422 for more information.
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.
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If you have a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in your vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight your vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight your vehicle can tow.
And if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 259 about your vehicle??s maximum load capacity.
The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B), up to a maximum of 400 lbs (181 kg) with a weight carrying hitch. The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B), up to a maximum of 1,000 lbs (454 kg) with a weight distributing hitch.
Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight for your vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. This will help reduce the effect
of trailer tongue weight on the rear axle.
After you??ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren??t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
Trailering may be limited by the vehicle??s ability to carry tongue weight. Tongue weight cannot cause the vehicle to exceed the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) or the RGAWR (Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating). The effect of additional weight may reduce your trailering capacity more than the total of the additional weight.
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Consider the following example:
A vehicle model base weight is 5,500 lbs
(2 495 kg); 2,800 lbs (1 270 kg) at the front axle and 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg) at the rear axle. It has a GVWR of 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg), a RGAWR of 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) and a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 14,000 lbs
(6 350 kg). The trailer rating should be:
You can expect tongue weight to be at least 10 percent of trailer weight (850 lbs (386 kg)) and because the weight is applied well behind the rear axle, the effect on the rear axle will be greater than just the weight itself, as much as 1.5 times as much. The weight at the rear axle could be 850 lbs
(386 kg) X 1.5 = 1,275 lbs (578 kg). Since the rear axle already weighs 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg), adding 1,275 lbs (578 kg) brings the total to 3,975 lbs
(1 803 kg). This is very close to, but within the limit for RGAWR as well. The vehicle is set to trailer up to 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg).
But let??s say your speci??c vehicle is equipped with some of the latest options and you have a front seat passenger and two rear seat passengers with some luggage and gear in the vehicle as well. You may add 300 lbs (136 kg) to the front
axle weight and 400 lbs (181 kg) to the rear axle weight. Your vehicle now weighs:
Weight is still below 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) and you may think that you should subtract 700 additional pounds (318 kg) from your trailering capacity to stay within GCWR limits. Your maximum trailer would only be 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg). You may go further and think you must limit tongue weight to less than 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to avoid exceeding GVWR. But, you must still consider the effect on the rear axle.
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Because your rear axle now weighs 3,100 lbs
(1 406 kg), you can only put 900 lbs (408 kg) on the rear axle without exceeding RGAWR. The effect of tongue weight is about 1.5 times the actual weight. Dividing the 900 lbs (408 kg) by 1.5 leaves you with being able to handle only 600 lbs (272 kg) of tongue weight. Since tongue weight is usually at least
10 percent of total loaded trailer weight, you can expect that the largest trailer your vehicle can properly handle is 6,000 lbs (2 721 kg).
It is important that you make sure your vehicle does not exceed any of its ratings ?? GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, Maximum Trailer Rating
or Tongue Weight. The only way to be sure you are not exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh your vehicle and trailer.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle???s Tires
Be sure your vehicle??s tires are in??ated to the upper limit for cold tires. You??ll ??nd these numbers on the Certi??cation label at the rear edge of the driver??s door or see Loading Your Vehicle on page 259. Then be sure you don??t go over
the GVW limit for your vehicle, or the GAWR, including the weight of the trailer tongue. If you use a weight distributing hitch, make sure you don??t go over the rear axle limit before you apply
the weight distribution spring bars.
Hitches
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.
The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other
275
Carrying Hitches
(A) Body to Ground Distance, (B) Front of Vehicle
When using a
If you use a
have ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper.
If you??ll be pulling a trailer that, when loaded, will weigh more than 5,000 lbs (2 270 kg), be sure
to use a properly mounted
Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you??re using the wiring provided with the
276
If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don??t seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle as well as dirt and water. See ??Carbon Monoxide?? under Engine Exhaust
on page 132.
Safety Chains
You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer??s recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes
If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes ?? and they must be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you??ll be
able to install, adjust and maintain them properly.
Since your vehicle is equipped with StabiliTrak??, your trailer brake system cannot tap into the vehicle??s hydraulic brake system.
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Driving with a Trailer
{CAUTION:
If you have a
Engine Exhaust on page 132. To maximize your safety when towing a trailer:
???Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, and make necessary repairs before starting on your trip.
???Keep the
???If exhaust does come into your vehicle through a window in the rear or another opening, drive with your front, main heating or cooling system on and with the fan on any speed. This will bring fresh, outside air into your vehicle.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
Do not use the climate control setting for maximum air because it only recirculates the air inside your vehicle. See Climate Control System in the Index.
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.
Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working.
This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time.
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During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without
a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
You??ll need more passing distance up ahead when you??re towing a trailer. And, because you??re a good deal longer, you??ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can
return to your lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with
one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer
to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.
Making Turns
Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.
When you??re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won??t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
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Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have extra wiring and a
??asher (included in the optional trailering package).
The arrows on your instrument panel will ??ash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also ??ash, telling other drivers you??re about to turn, change lanes or stop.
When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will ??ash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It??s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are
still working.
Driving On Grades
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don??t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well.
You can tow in DRIVE (D). You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or a lower gear under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions.
When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If you turn your engine off immediately after towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, your vehicle may show signs similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the engine run while parked (preferably on level ground) with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) for a few minutes before turning the engine off. If you do get the overheat warning, see Engine Overheating
on page 311.
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Parking on Hills
{CAUTION:
You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here??s how to do it:
1.Apply your regular brakes, but don??t shift into PARK (P) yet. Then turn your wheels into the curb if facing downhill or into traffic if facing uphill.
2.Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels.
3.When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
4.Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your parking brake and then shift to PARK (P).
5.Release the regular brakes.
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.
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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. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission ??uid (don??t over??ll), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system and
brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you ??nd them quickly. If you??re trailering, it??s a good idea
to review these sections before you start your trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.
Trailer Wiring Harness
The optional
assembly is taped together and located in a frame pocket at the driver side rear left corner of the frame. The
Both harnesses come without connectors and should be wired by a quali??ed electrical technician. The technician can use the following color code chart when connecting the wiring harness to
your trailer and trailer brake controller.
??Light Green:
??Brown: Parking lamps
??Yellow: Left stoplamp and turn signal
??Dark Green: Right stoplamp and turn signal
??Dark Blue: Use for electric trailer brakes
??Red/Black Stripe: Trailer accessory
??White (heavy gage): Ground wire
??Black: Ground
??Red/White Stripe: Fused Battery
??Dark Blue: Trailer Brake Feed
??Light Blue: Fused Stoplamp/CHMSL
282
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
283
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
284
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
285
Service
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
We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:
Accessories and Modi???cations
When you add
stability control. Some of these accessories may even cause malfunction or damage not covered by warranty.
GM Accessories are designed to complement and function with other systems on your vehicle.
Your GM dealer can accessorize your vehicle using genuine GM Accessories. When you go to your GM dealer and ask for GM Accessories, you will know that
286
California Proposition 65 Warning
Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems (including some inside the vehicle), many ??uids, and some component wear
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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
???Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. English and metric fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.
If you want to do some of your own service work, you will want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 437.
Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see
Servicing Your
You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See Maintenance Record on page 414.
287
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle
Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the air??ow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle.
Fuel
If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see ??Diesel Fuel Requirements and Fuel System?? in the DURAMAX?? Diesel Supplement.
For vehicles with gasoline engines, please read this.
Gasoline
Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the proper maintenance of your vehicle. To help keep your engine clean and maintain optimum vehicle performance, GM recommends the use of gasoline advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline.
The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identi??cation Number (VIN) shows the code letter or number that identi??es your engine. You will ??nd the VIN at the top left of the instrument panel. See Vehicle Identi???cation Number (VIN) on page 388.
If your vehicle has the 5.3L V8 engine (VIN Code Z), you may use either regular unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85); also see Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol) on page 291. In all other gasoline engines,
use only regular unleaded gasoline.
288
Gasoline Octane
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.
Gasoline Speci???cations
At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM speci??cation D 4814 in the United States or
California Fuel
If your vehicle is certi??ed to meet California Emissions Standards, it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California speci??cations. See the underhood emission control label. If this fuel is not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal speci??cations, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on and your vehicle may fail a
type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
289
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. To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean, or if your vehicle experiences problems due to dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Also, your dealer has additives that will help correct and prevent most
Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines if they comply with the speci??cations described earlier.
However, E85 (85% ethanol) and other fuels containing more than 10% ethanol must not be used in vehicles that were not designed for those fuels.
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use
fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty.
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions may contain an
the emission control system may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this occurs, return to your dealer for service.
290
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)
The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identi??cation Number (VIN) shows the code letter or number that identi??es your engine. You will ??nd the VIN at the top left of the instrument panel. See Vehicle Identi???cation Number (VIN) on page 388.
If your vehicle has the 5.3L V8 engine (VIN Code Z only), you may use either regular unleaded gasoline or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85); also see Fuel on page 288. In all other engines, use only the unleaded gasoline described under
Gasoline Octane on page 289.
Only vehicles that have the 5.3L V8 engine (VIN Code Z) 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.
Many service stations will not have an 85% ethanol fuel (E85) pump available. The U. S. Department of Energy has an alternative fuels website (www.eere.energy.gov/afdc/infrastructure/ locator.html) that can help you ??nd E85 fuel. Those stations that do have E85 should have a label indicating ethanol content. Do not use the fuel if the ethanol content is greater than 85%.
At a minimum, E85 should meet ASTM Speci??cation D 5798. By de??nition, this means that fuel labeled E85 will have an ethanol content between 70% and 85%. Filling the fuel tank
with fuel mixtures that do not meet ASTM speci??cations can affect driveability and could cause the check engine light to come on.
To ensure quick starts in the wintertime, the E85 fuel must be formulated properly for your climate according to ASTM speci??cation D 5798. If you have trouble starting on E85, it may be because your E85 fuel is not properly formulated for your climate. If this happens, switching to gasoline or adding gasoline to your fuel tank may improve starting. For good starting and heater
efficiency below 32??F (0??C), the fuel mix in the fuel tank should contain no more than 70% ethanol.
It is best not to alternate repeatedly between gasoline and E85. If you do switch fuels, it
is recommended that you add as much fuel as possible ?? do not add less than three gallons
(11 L) when refueling. You should drive the vehicle immediately after refueling for at least seven miles (11 km) to allow the vehicle to adapt to the change in ethanol concentration.
291
E85 has less energy per gallon than gasoline, so you will need to re??ll your fuel tank more often when using E85 than when you are using gasoline. See Filling the Tank on page 293.
Notice: Some additives are not compatible with E85 fuel and may harm your vehicle???s fuel system. Damage caused by additives would not be covered by your new vehicle warranty.
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use
fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty.
Fuels in Foreign Countries
If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to ??nd. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel would not be covered by your warranty.
To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you will be driving.
292
Filling the Tank
{CAUTION:
Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel ???re 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, ???ames, 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. Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump fuel.
The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel door on the
driver side of the vehicle.
If the vehicle has E85 fuel capability, a yellow cap with the words ??E85/gasoline?? can be seen.
To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly counterclockwise.
While refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap from the hook on the fuel door.
293
{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 over??ll the tank and wait a few seconds after you have ??nished pumping before removing the nozzle. Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See Washing Your Vehicle on page 382.
When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere.
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 178.
{CAUTION:
If a ???re starts while you are refueling, do not remove the nozzle. Shut off the ???ow of fuel by shutting off the pump or by notifying the station attendant. Leave the area immediately.
Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not ???t properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions system. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp
on page 178.
294
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
{CAUTION:
Never ???ll 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 ???ll a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle???s trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than the ground.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
???Bring the ???ll nozzle in contact with the inside of the ???ll opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the ???lling is complete.
???Do not smoke while pumping gasoline.
295
Checking Things Under
the Hood
{CAUTION:
Things that burn can get on hot engine or fuel operated heater (FOH) parts and start a ???re. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake ???uid, windshield washer and other ???uids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things
that will burn onto a hot engine or fuel operated heater (FOH).
Hood Release
To open the hood, do the following:
1. Pull the handle with this symbol on it.
It is located in front of the driver??s
side door frame near the ??oor.
296
2.Then go to the front of the vehicle and lift up the secondary hood release, which is located underneath the middle of the hood.
3.Lift the hood, release the hood prop from its retainer and put the hood prop into the slot in the hood.
If your vehicle has an underhood lamp, it will automatically come on and stay on until the hood is closed.
Before closing the hood, be sure all of the ??ller caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Let the hood down and
close it ??rmly.
297
Engine Compartment Overview
When you lift the hood, here is what you will see:
298
A.Battery. See Battery on page 325.
B.Radiator Pressure Cap. See Radiator Pressure Cap on page 311.
C.Coolant Recovery Tank. See Cooling System on page 313.
D.Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick. See ??Checking the Fluid Level?? under Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 305.
E.Engine Oil Fill Cap. See ??When to Add Engine Oil?? under Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on page 299.
F.Engine Oil Dipstick. See ??Checking Engine Oil?? under Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on
page 299.
G.Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 304.
H.Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See Power Steering Fluid on page 319.
I.Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See ??Brake Fluid?? under Brakes on page 321.
J.Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See ??Adding Washer Fluid?? under Windshield Washer Fluid on page 320.
Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine)
If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see ??Engine Oil?? in the DURAMAX?? Diesel Engine Supplement.
Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
on level ground.
The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for the location of the engine oil dipstick.
1.Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
2.Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.
299
When to Add Engine Oil
If the oil is below the
Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the
proper operating range, the engine could be damaged.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for the location of the engine oil ??ll cap.
Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through.
300
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
Look for two things:
??GM6094M
Your vehicle??s engine requires oil meeting GM Standard GM6094M. You should look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M.
??SAE
As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE
These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE
Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certi??ed by the American Petroleum Institute (API).
You should look for this information on the oil container, and use only those oils that are identi??ed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and have the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container.
Notice: Use only engine oil identi???ed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and showing the American Petroleum Institute Certi???ed
For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.
GM Goodwrench?? oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle.
301
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
Engine Oil Additives
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard GM6094M are all you will need for good performance and engine protection.
Engine Oil Life System
(Gasoline Engine)
When to Change Engine Oil
Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and ??lter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change
will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you must reset the system every time the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is necessary. A change engine oil light will
come on. See Change Engine Oil Light on page 183. Change your oil 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 oil life system may not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and ??lter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must
be reset. Your dealer has
If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km)
since your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.
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How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System
The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change your engine oil and ??lter 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 light being turned on, reset the system.
To reset the change engine oil light, do the following:
1.Turn the ignition key to RUN with the engine off.
2.Fully press and release the accelerator pedal slowly three times within ??ve seconds.
3.If the Change Engine Oil light ??ashes for ??ve seconds, the system is reset.
4.Turn the key to LOCK.
If the change engine oil light comes back on when you start your vehicle, the engine oil life system has not reset. Repeat the procedure. If it still does not reset, see your dealer for service. See
Change Engine Oil Light on page 183.
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags
containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer??s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.
Used oil can be a threat to the environment.
If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the ??lter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on
the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a
place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station, or a local recycling center for help.
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Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/??lter is located near the center of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for more information on location.
When to Inspect the Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter
Inspect the air cleaner/??lter at the Maintenance II intervals and replace it at the ??rst oil change after each 50,000 mile (85 000 km) interval.
See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 400 for more information. If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the ??lter at each engine oil change.
How to Inspect the Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter
To inspect the air cleaner/??lter, remove the ??lter from the vehicle and lightly shake the ??lter to release loose dust and dirt. If the ??lter remains caked with dirt, a new ??lter is required. Never use compressed air to clean the ??lter.
To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/??lter, do the following:
1.Unhook the retainer clips and remove the cover.
2.Lift the ??lter out of the engine air cleaner/??lter housing. Care should be taken to dislodge as little dirt as possible.
3.Clean the engine air cleaner/??lter housing.
4.Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/??lter. Make sure that the ??lter ??ts properly into
the housing.
5.Reinstall the cover and fasten the retaining clips.
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{CAUTION:
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/???lter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop ???ames if the engine back???res. If it is not there and the engine back???res, you could be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/???lter off.
Notice: If the air cleaner/???lter is off, a back???re can cause a damaging engine ???re. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/???lter
in place when you are driving.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
When to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid
A good time to check your automatic transmission ??uid level is when the engine oil is changed.
Change the ??uid and ??lter at the intervals listed in
Additional Required Services (Gasoline Engine) on page 403, and be sure to use the transmission ??uid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 410.
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How to Check Automatic
Transmission Fluid
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department.
If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
Notice: Too much or too little ???uid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the ???uid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a ???re. Too little ???uid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check
your transmission ???uid.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission ??uid 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 ??uid 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). If it is colder than 50??F (10??C), drive the vehicle in DRIVE (D) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes.
A cold ??uid check can be made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with
the engine off, but this is used only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for ??ve minutes if outside temperatures are 50??F (10??C) or more.
If it is colder than 50??F (10??C), you may have
to idle the engine longer. Should the ??uid level be low during this cold check, you must check the ??uid hot before adding ??uid. Checking the ??uid hot will give you a more accurate reading of
the ??uid level.
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Checking the Fluid Level
Prepare your vehicle as follows:
1.Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running.
2.With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P).
3.With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range.
Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P).
4.Let the engine run at idle for three minutes or more.
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:
The transmission dipstick is located near the center of the engine compartment and will be labeled with the graphic shown.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for more information on location.
1.Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.
2.Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again.
3.Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The ??uid level must be in the COLD area for a cold check or in the HOT or
4.If the ??uid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way; then ??ip the handle down to lock the dipstick
in place.
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How to Add Automatic
Transmission Fluid
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission ??uid to use. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 410.
Using a funnel, add ??uid down the transmission dipstick tube only after checking the transmission ??uid while it is hot. A cold check is used only as a reference. If the ??uid level is low, add only enough of the proper ??uid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. It does not take much ??uid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Do not over??ll.
Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission ???uid may damage your vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by your warranty. Always use the automatic transmission ???uid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 410.
??After adding ??uid, recheck the ??uid level as described under ??How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid,?? earlier in this section.
??When the correct ??uid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way; then ??ip the handle down to lock the dipstick in place.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is ??lled with
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, see Engine Overheating on page 311.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
??Give freezing protection down to ???34??F (???37??C).
??Give boiling protection up to 265??F (129??C).
??Protect against rust and corrosion.
??Help keep the proper engine temperature.
??Let the warning lights and gages work as they should.
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Notice: Using coolant other than
(50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ???rst. Any repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
What to Use
Use a mixture of
not damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you do not need to add anything else.
{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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
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 ???re and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and the proper coolant.
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.
If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system.
Notice: If you use extra inhibitors and/or additives in your vehicle???s cooling system, you could damage your vehicle. Use only the proper mixture of the engine coolant listed in this manual for the cooling system. See
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 410 for more information.
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Checking Coolant for Gasoline Engines
If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see ??Checking Coolant?? under ??Van Models?? in the DURAMAX?? Diesel Supplement for information on checking your vehicle??s coolant.
The coolant recovery tank is located near the center of the engine compartment. See
Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for more information on location.
The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD FILL mark, or a little higher.
Adding Coolant
If you need more coolant, add the proper
{CAUTION:
Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never
turn the radiator pressure cap ??? even a little ??? when the engine and radiator are hot.
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{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.
Occasionally check the coolant level in the radiator. For information on how to add coolant to the radiator, see Cooling System on page 313.
Radiator Pressure Cap
The radiator pressure cap is located near the center of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for more information on location.
Notice: If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured.
Engine Overheating
You will ??nd an engine coolant temperature gage on your vehicle??s instrument panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 178 for more information.
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If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
{CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood.
If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch ???re. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.
Notice: If your engine catches ???re because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your
Engine
If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you:
??Climb a long hill on a hot day.
??Stop after
??Idle for long periods in traffic.
??Tow a trailer. See ??Driving on Grades?? under
Towing a Trailer on page 266.
If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so:
1.In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and let the engine idle.
2.Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the windows as necessary.
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If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not come back on, you can drive normally.
If the warning continues, and you have not stopped, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away.
If there is still no sign of steam, push down the accelerator until the engine speed is about twice as fast as normal idle speed for at least three minutes while you are parked. If you
still have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down.
You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.
Cooling System
If your vehicle has a diesel engine,
see ??Van Models?? under ??Cooling System?? in the DURAMAX?? Diesel Supplement.
When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what you will see:
A.Radiator Pressure Cap
B.Coolant Recovery Tank
C.Engine Cooling Fan(s)
If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down.
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When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the COLD FILL mark. If it is not, you may have 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, fuel operated heater (FOH), radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them.
If you do, you can be burned.
Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine ???re, and you could be burned. Get any leak ???xed before you drive the vehicle.
If there seems to be no leak, start the engine again. See if the engine cooling fan speed increases when idle speed is doubled by pushing the accelerator pedal down. If it does not, your vehicle needs service. Turn off the engine.
Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant is not covered by your warranty.
Notice: Using coolant other than
or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner,
at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ???rst. Any repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank for Gasoline Engines
If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see ??How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank??
under ??Van Models?? in the Cooling System section of the DURAMAX?? Diesel Supplement for the proper coolant ??ll procedure.
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If you have not found a problem yet, but the coolant level is not at the COLD FILL mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
{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 ???re and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
Notice:
???When using concentrated washer ???uid, follow the manufacturer???s instructions for adding water.
???Do not mix water with
as washer ???uid.
???Fill your washer ???uid tank only
???Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.
Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.
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{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot components in the engine compartment. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine or components in the engine compartment.
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the COLD FILL mark, start your vehicle.
If the overheat warning continues, there is one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
{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. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator for Gasoline Engines
If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see ??How to Add Coolant to the Radiator?? under ??Van Models?? in the Cooling System section of the DURAMAX?? Diesel Supplement for the proper radiator ??ll procedure.
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1.You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it ??rst stops. Do not press down while turning the pressure cap.
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
2.Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.
3.Fill the radiator with the proper
for more information about the proper coolant mixture.
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4.Then ??ll the coolant recovery tank to the COLD FILL mark.
5.Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.
6.Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan.
7.By this time, the coolant level inside the
radiator ??ller neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper
8.Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to ??ow out of the ??ller neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
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Engine Fan Noise
Your vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan. When the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning slower and the clutch is not fully engaged.
This improves fuel economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing, and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases as the clutch more fully engages,
so you may hear an increase in fan noise. This is normal and should not be mistaken as the transmission slipping or making extra shifts. It is merely the cooling system functioning properly. The fan will slow down when additional cooling is not required and the clutch partially disengages.
You may also hear this fan noise when you start the engine. It will go away as the fan clutch partially disengages.
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering ??uid reservoir is located in the engine compartment on the driver??s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering ??uid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise.
A ??uid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
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How to Check Power Steering Fluid
To check the power steering ??uid, do the following:
1.Turn the key off and let the engine compartment cool down.
2.Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
3.Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
4.Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
5.Then remove the cap again and look at the ??uid level on the dipstick.
The level should be at the COLD FILL mark.
If necessary, add only enough ??uid to bring the level up to the mark.
To prevent contamination of brake ??uid, never check or ??ll the power steering reservoir with the brake master cylinder cover off.
What to Use
To determine what kind of ??uid to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 410. Always use the proper ??uid. Failure to use the proper ??uid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield washer ??uid, 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 ??uid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer ??uid
until the tank is full. See
Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for reservoir location.
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Notice:
???When using concentrated washer ???uid, follow the manufacturer???s instructions for adding water.
???Do not mix water with
as washer ???uid.
???Fill your washer ???uid tank only
???Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.
Brakes
Brake Fluid
Your brake master cylinder reservoir is ??lled with
There are only two reasons why the brake ??uid level in the reservoir might go down. The ??rst is that the brake ??uid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the ??uid level goes back up. The other reason is that ??uid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system ??xed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes will not work well, or will not work at all.
So, it is not a good idea to top off your brake ??uid. Adding brake ??uid will not correct a leak.
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If you add ??uid when your linings are worn, then you will have too much ??uid when you get new brake linings. You should add or remove brake ??uid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
{CAUTION:
If you have too much brake ???uid, it can spill on the engine and/or fuel operated heater parts, if equipped. If your vehicle has a diesel engine and a fuel operated heater, see ???Fuel Operated Heater (FOH)??? in the diesel engine supplement. The ???uid will burn if the engine is hot enough.
You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake ???uid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. See ???Checking Brake Fluid??? in this section.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to check your brake ??uid. See Scheduled Maintenance (Gasoline Engine) on page 400.
Checking Brake Fluid
You can check the brake ??uid without taking off the cap.
Look at the brake ??uid reservoir.
The ??uid level should be above MIN.
If it is not, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak.
After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make sure the level is above the MIN but not over the MAX mark.
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What to Add
When you do need brake ??uid, use only
and Lubricants on page 410.
Always clean the brake ??uid 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 ???uid in the brake system, the brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake ???uid.
Notice:
???Using the wrong ???uid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of
as engine oil, in the brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not
let someone put in the wrong kind of ???uid.
???If you spill brake ???uid on your vehicle???s painted surfaces, the paint ???nish can
be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake ???uid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it
off immediately. See Washing Your Vehicle on page 382.
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Brake Wear
Your vehicle has
Disc brake pads have
the time your vehicle is moving, except when you are pushing on the brake pedal ??rmly.
{CAUTION:
The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.
Notice: Continuing to drive with
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are ??rst applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque speci??cations.
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.
Brake Adjustment
Every time you make a brake stop, your disc brakes adjust for wear.
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Replacing Brake System Parts
The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with
example, when your brake linings wear down and you need new ones put in ?? be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you do not, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change ?? for
the worse. The braking performance you have come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts.
Battery
Your vehicle has a maintenance free battery. When it is time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery??s label. We recommend an ACDelco?? replacement battery. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 298 for battery location.
Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
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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 326 for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.
Jump Starting
If your vehicle??s battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use
the following steps to do it safely.
{CAUTION:
Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because:
???They contain acid that can burn you.
???They contain gas that can explode or ignite.
???They contain enough electricity to burn you.
If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.
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Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that would not be covered by your warranty.
Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage your vehicle.
1.Check the other vehicle. It must have a
Notice: If the other vehicle???s system is not
a
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 ??rmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put
an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake.
Notice: If you leave your radio or other accessories on during the jump starting procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always turn off your radio and other accessories when jump starting your vehicle.
3.Turn off the ignition on both vehicles.
Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or the accessory power outlet. Turn off the radio and all lamps that are not needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save
the radio!
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4.Open the hoods and locate the positive (+) and negative (???) terminal locations of the other vehicle.
Your vehicle has a remote positive (+) jump starting terminal and a remote negative (???) jump starting terminal. You should always use these remote terminals instead of the terminals on the battery.
The remote positive (+) terminal is located behind a red plastic cover near the engine accessory drive bracket on the driver??s side of the engine compartment, below the alternator. To uncover the remote positive (+) terminal, open the red plastic cover.
The remote negative (???) terminal is located on the engine drive bracket on all V8 engines and is marked GND (Ground).
On V6 engines the remote negative (???) terminal is located on a tab attached to the engine accessory drive bracket and is marked GND (Ground).
{CAUTION:
Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a ???ashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has ???ller caps, be sure the right amount of ???uid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that ???rst. If you do not, explosive gas could be present.
Battery ???uid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, ???ush the place with water and get medical help immediately.
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{CAUTION:
Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.
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.
Do not connect positive (+) to negative (???) or you will get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts too.
And do not connect the negative (???) cable to the negative (???) terminal on the dead battery because this can cause sparks.
6.Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
