2006 Chevrolet HHR Manual
2006 Chevrolet HHR Manual
2006 Chevrolet HHR Manual
Seats and Restraint Systems ........................... 1-1 Driving Your Vehicle ....................................... 4-1
Front Seats ............................................... 1-2 Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ..... 4-2
Rear Seats .............................................. 1-10 Towing ................................................... 4-37
Safety Belts ............................................. 1-13 Service and Appearance Care .......................... 5-1
Child Restraints ....................................... 1-32 Service ..................................................... 5-3
Airbag System ......................................... 1-56 Fuel ......................................................... 5-5
Restraint System Check ............................ 1-71 Checking Things Under the Hood ............... 5-10
Features and Controls ..................................... 2-1 Headlamp Aiming ..................................... 5-38
Keys ........................................................ 2-3 Bulb Replacement .................................... 5-40
Doors and Locks ...................................... 2-10 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ......... 5-44
Windows ................................................. 2-14 Tires ...................................................... 5-45
Theft-Deterrent Systems ............................ 2-16 Appearance Care ..................................... 5-74
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ........... 2-20 Vehicle Identification ................................. 5-81
Mirrors .................................................... 2-36 Electrical System ...................................... 5-82
OnStar® System ...................................... 2-41 Capacities and Specifications ..................... 5-87
Storage Areas ......................................... 2-43 Maintenance Schedule ..................................... 6-1
Sunroof .................................................. 2-47 Maintenance Schedule ................................ 6-2
Instrument Panel ............................................. 3-1 Customer Assistance and Information .............. 7-1
Instrument Panel Overview .......................... 3-4 Customer Assistance and Information ........... 7-2
Climate Controls ...................................... 3-19 Reporting Safety Defects ........................... 7-13
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators ........ 3-24 Index ................................................................ 1
Driver Information Center (DIC) .................. 3-40
Audio System(s) ....................................... 3-50
Canadian Owners
A French language copy of this manual can be obtained
from your dealer or from:
Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
CHEVROLET, and the CHEVROLET Emblem are How to Use This Manual
registered trademarks and the name HHR is a
trademark of General Motors Corporation. Many people read the owner manual from beginning to
This manual includes the latest information at the time it end when they first receive their new vehicle. If this
was printed. We reserve the right to make changes is done, it can help you learn about the features
after that time without further notice. For vehicles first and controls for the vehicle. Pictures and words work
sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of together in the owner manual to explain things.
Canada Limited” for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever
it appears in this manual.
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.
Litho in U.S.A.
©
Part No. 06HHR A First Print 2005 General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
ii
Index In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is.
Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce
A good place to quickly locate information about the the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you do not,
vehicle is the Index in the back of the manual. It is you or others could be hurt.
an alphabetical list of what is in the manual and
the page number where it can be found. You will also find a circle
with a slash through it in
this book. This safety
Safety Warnings and Symbols symbol means “Do Not,”
There are a number of safety cautions in this book. “Do Not do this” or “Do Not
We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell about let this happen.”
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.
iii
Vehicle Damage Warnings Vehicle Symbols
Also, in this manual you will find these notices: The vehicle has components and labels that use
symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along with
Notice: These mean there is something that could the text describing the operation or information
damage your vehicle. relating to a specific component, control, message,
A notice tells about something that can damage the gage, or indicator.
vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered If you need help figuring out a specific name of a
by your vehicle’s warranty, and it could be costly. component, gage, or indicator, reference the
But the notice will tell what to do to help avoid the following topics:
damage.
• Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1
When you read other manuals, you might see
CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors • Features and Controls in Section 2
or in different words. • Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3
There are also warning labels on the vehicle. • Climate Controls in Section 3
They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.
• Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators in Section 3
• Audio System(s) in Section 3
• Engine Compartment Overview in Section 5
iv
These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle:
v
✍ NOTES
vi
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
Front Seats ......................................................1-2 Child Restraints .............................................1-32
Manual Seats ................................................1-2 Older Children ..............................................1-32
Driver Seat Height Adjuster ..............................1-3 Infants and Young Children ............................1-34
Six-Way Power Driver Seat ..............................1-3 Child Restraint Systems .................................1-37
Power Lumbar ...............................................1-4 Where to Put the Restraint .............................1-41
Heated Seats .................................................1-4 Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Reclining Seatbacks ........................................1-5 Children (LATCH) ......................................1-43
Head Restraints .............................................1-7 Securing a Child Restraint in a
Passenger Folding Seatback ............................1-8 Rear Seat Position ....................................1-49
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Rear Seats .....................................................1-10
Right Front Seat Position ............................1-51
Split Folding Rear Seat .................................1-10
Airbag System ...............................................1-56
Safety Belts ...................................................1-13
Where Are the Airbags? ................................1-58
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone ................1-13
When Should an Airbag Inflate? .....................1-61
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ......1-17
What Makes an Airbag Inflate? .......................1-62
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly .................1-18
How Does an Airbag Restrain? .......................1-62
Driver Position ..............................................1-18
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? ........1-63
Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment .....................1-25
Passenger Sensing System ............................1-64
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ..................1-26
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ...........1-70
Right Front Passenger Position .......................1-26
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped
Rear Seat Passengers ..................................1-26
Vehicle ....................................................1-70
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ....................1-29
Safety Belt Pretensioners ...............................1-31 Restraint System Check ..................................1-71
Safety Belt Extender .....................................1-31 Checking the Restraint Systems ......................1-71
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash ............................................1-72
1-1
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.
1-2
Driver Seat Height Adjuster Six-Way Power Driver Seat
If your vehicle has this feature, the driver’s seat height Driver’s Seat with 6-way Power Seat Control and
adjuster is located on the outboard side of the seat. Power Lumbar shown
To raise the seat, move the lever upward repeatedly If your vehicle has this feature, the power seat control is
until the seat is at the desired height. To lower the seat, located on the outboard side of the driver’s seat.
move the lever downward repeatedly until the seat is To adjust the seat, do the following:
at the desired height. • Move the seat forward or rearward by pushing the
control toward the front or rear of the vehicle.
• Tilt the front of the seat cushion up or down by
holding the front of the control up or down.
• Raise or lower the entire seat by holding the rear of
the control up or down.
1-3
Power Lumbar Heated Seats
If your vehicle has this
feature, the driver’s and
passenger’s heated
seat buttons are located
on the climate control
panel below the fan switch.
If your vehicle has this feature, the control is located on Press the button once to turn the heated seat to the
the outboard side of the driver’s seat cushion. high setting. Both lights below the heated seat symbol
To increase support, press and hold the front of the will come on. Press the button a second time and
control. To decrease support, press and hold the rear of the heated seat will go to the low setting. The bottom
the control. Keep in mind that as your seating position light will come on to indicate that the setting is on
changes, as it may during long trips, so should the low. Press the button a third time to turn the heated
position of your lumbar support. Adjust the seat seat off.
as needed. The heated seat feature will need to be turned on each
time the ignition is turned off and back on again.
1-4
Reclining Seatbacks
{CAUTION:
If the seatback is not locked, it could move
forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always
push and pull on the seatback to be sure it
is locked.
1-5
Head Restraints
Pull up on the head
restraint to raise it.
Press the button at the
base of the head restraint
and push the head
restraint down to lower it.
Only the front head
restraints are adjustable.
1-7
Passenger Folding Seatback
Your vehicle has a front passenger seat that folds flat. {CAUTION:
Things you put on this seatback can strike
{CAUTION: and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or
in a crash. Remove or secure all items before
If you fold the seatback forward to carry longer driving.
objects, such as skis, be sure any such cargo
is not near an airbag. In a crash, an inflating To fold the seatback, do the following:
airbag might force that object toward a person.
1. Move the front passenger seat rearward to ensure
This could cause severe injury or even death.
there is enough room to fold the seatback forward.
Secure objects away from the area in which an See Manual Seats on page 1-2 for more
airbag would inflate. For more information, information. The head restraint may need to be
see Where Are the Airbags? on page 1-58 and removed if the seat is not able to be moved
Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32. fully rearward. If removing the head restraint,
store it so that it will not move while the vehicle is
in motion.
2. Make sure that the seatback is in an upright
position. Use the recliner lever located on the
outboard side of the seat to move the seatback to
the upright position.
1-8
3. Use one of two levers to fold the seat flat. The levers 4. Continue to fold the seat forward until it locks in the
are located on the rear of the seat near the bottom folded position. Pull up on the seatback to be sure
of either side of the seat. Pull up on either lever and it is locked.
fold the seat forward until the seatback disengages.
This can most easily be down from the rear seats.
1-9
To raise the seatback to an upright position, do the
following:
Rear Seats
1. Pull up on one of the two levers located on the
rear of the seat near the bottom of either side of Split Folding Rear Seat
the seat.
The seatbacks can be folded flat so that they are at the
2. Push the seatback up until it is in a locked position. same level as the rear cargo area. This allows more
cargo space.
To lower the rear seatback(s), do the following:
{CAUTION: 1. Move the front seat forward and/or put the front
seatback in an upright position so it does not
If the seatback is not locked, it could move interfere with folding the rear seatback forward.
forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could
2. Open the rear door while the vehicle is parked.
cause injury to the person sitting there. Always
push and pull on the seatback to be sure it is 3. The rear head restraint may need to be removed
locked. to ensure that it does not interfere with the front
seat when the front seat is moved back in place.
If removed, store the head restraint where it cannot
3. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure it is move while the vehicle is in motion.
locked.
1-10
5. Pull up on the knob
located on the top
of the seatback on
the outboard side to
release the seatback.
With your other hand,
pull the seatback
forward.
1-11
What Will You See After an
Airbag Inflates? {CAUTION:
After a frontal airbag inflates, it quickly deflates, so
quickly that some people may not even realize When an airbag inflates, there is dust in the
the airbag inflated. Roof-mounted side impact airbags air. This dust could cause breathing problems
deflate more slowly and may still be at least partially for people with a history of asthma or other
inflated minutes after the vehicle comes to rest. Some breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in
components of the airbag module — the steering wheel the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe
hub for the driver’s airbag, the instrument panel for to do so. If you have breathing problems but
the right front passenger’s airbag or the garnish trim and cannot get out of the vehicle after an airbag
ceiling of your vehicle near the side windows — may inflates, then get fresh air by opening a
be hot for a short time. The parts of the airbag that come window or a door. If you experience breathing
into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to
problems following an airbag deployment, you
touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from
the vents in the deflated airbags. Airbag inflation should seek medical attention.
does not prevent the driver from seeing out of the
windshield or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it Your vehicle has a feature that may automatically
stop people from leaving the vehicle. unlock the doors, turn the interior lamps on, and turn
the hazard warning flashers on when the airbags inflate
(if battery power is available). You can lock the doors
again, turn the interior lamps off, and turn the hazard
warning flashers off by using controls for those features.
1-63
In many crashes severe enough to inflate an airbag, Passenger Sensing System
windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the Your vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the
right front passenger airbag. right front passenger’s position. A passenger airbag
status indicator on the instrument panel will be visible
• Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After an when you turn your ignition key to START or RUN.
airbag inflates, you will need some new parts for The words ON and OFF or the symbol for on and off,
your airbag system. If you do not get them, will be visible on the instrument panel during the system
the airbag system will not be there to help protect check. If you are using remote start to start your
you in another crash. A new system will include vehicle from a distance, you may not see the system
airbag modules and possibly other parts. check. When the system check is complete, either
The service manual for your vehicle covers the the word ON or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or
need to replace other parts. the symbol for off will be visible. See Passenger
• Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and Airbag Status Indicator on page 3-29.
diagnostic module which records information after
a crash. See Vehicle Data Collection and Event
Data Recorders on page 7-9.
• Let only qualified technicians work on your airbag
system. Improper service can mean that your
airbag system will not work properly. See your
dealer for service.
1-64
The passenger sensing system will turn off the right
front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain conditions.
The driver’s airbag and the side airbags (if equipped) {CAUTION:
are not part of the passenger sensing system.
The passenger sensing system works with sensors that A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be
are part of the right front passenger’s seat and safety seriously injured or killed if the right front
belt. The sensors are designed to detect the presence passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because
of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the the back of the rear-facing child restraint
passenger’s frontal airbag should be enabled would be very close to the inflating airbag.
(may inflate) or not.
Even though the passenger sensing system is
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal
are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat.
airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child
General Motors recommends that child restraints
be secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in a restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one
rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward-facing can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy
child seat and an older child riding in a booster seat. under some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off. General Motors
If your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate a
recommends that rear-facing child restraints
rear-facing child restraint, a label on your sun visor
says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” be secured in the rear seat, even if the airbag
This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is is off.
so great, if the airbag deploys. If you need to secure a forward-facing child
restraint in the right front seat, always move
the front passenger seat as far back as it will
go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a
rear seat.
1-65
If your vehicle does not have a rear seat that will
accommodate a rear-facing child restraint, never put a CAUTION: (Continued)
child in a rear-facing child restraint in the right front
passenger seat the unless passenger airbag status
indicator shows off. Never put a rear facing child Even though the passenger sensing system is
restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal
airbag is off. Here is why: airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child
restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one can
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under
{CAUTION: some unusual circumstance, even though it is
turned off. We recommend that rear-facing child
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be restraints be transported in vehicles with a rear
seriously injured or killed if the right front seat that will accommodate a rear-facing child
passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the restraint, whenever possible.
back of the rear-facing child restraint would be If you need to secure a forward-facing child
very close to the inflating airbag. Be sure the restraint in the right front seat, always move
airbag is off before using a rear-facing child the front passenger seat as far back as it will go.
restraint in the right front seat position. It is better to secure the child restraint in a
CAUTION: (Continued) rear seat.
1-66
The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off
the right front passenger’s frontal airbag if:
{CAUTION: • the right front passenger seat is unoccupied
• the system determines that an infant is present in a
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be rear-facing infant seat
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s airbag inflates. This is because the
• the system determines that a small child is present
in a forward-facing child restraint
back of the rear-facing child restraint would be
very close to the inflating airbag. • the system determines that a small child is present
in a booster seat
Even though the passenger sensing system is
designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal
• a right front passenger takes his/her weight off of
the seat for a period of time
airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child
restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one can • the right front passenger seat is occupied by a
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown
some unusual circumstance, even though it is child restraints
turned off. General Motors recommends that • or if there is a critical problem with the airbag
rear-facing child restraints be secured in the system or the passenger sensing system.
rear seat, even if the airbag is off. When the passenger sensing system has turned off the
If you need to secure a forward-facing child passenger’s frontal airbag, the off indicator on the
instrument panel will light and stay lit to remind you that
restraint in the right front seat, always move
the airbag is off.
the front passenger seat as far back as it will go.
It is better to secure the child restraint in a If a child restraint has been installed and the on
indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child
rear seat.
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 on page 1-51.
1-67
If after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting the If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front
vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make passenger’s seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be
sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the child because that person is not sitting properly in the
restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens, slightly seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off and ask the
recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the seat person to place the seatback in the fully upright position,
cushion if possible. Also make sure the child restraint is then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat
not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this cushion, with the person’s legs comfortably extended.
happens, adjust the head restraint. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in
this position for about two minutes. This will allow the
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child
system to detect that person and then enable the
restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle and
passenger’s airbag.
check with your dealer.
The passenger sensing system is designed to enable
(may inflate) 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.
1-68
Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers, can affect
how well the passenger sensing system operates.
{CAUTION: You may want to consider not using seat covers or other
aftermarket equipment if your vehicle has the passenger
If the airbag readiness light in the instrument sensing system. See Adding Equipment to Your
panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-70 for more
information about modifications that can affect how the
means that something may be wrong with the
system operates.
airbag system. If this ever happens, have the
vehicle serviced promptly, because an
adult-size person sitting in the right front
passenger’s seat may not have the protection
{CAUTION:
of the frontal airbag. See Airbag Readiness
Light on page 3-28 for more on this, including Stowing of articles under the passenger’s seat
important safety information. or between the passenger’s seat cushion and
seatback may interfere with the proper
operation of the passenger sensing system.
1-69
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Adding Equipment to Your
Vehicle Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced.
There are parts of the airbag system in several places Q: Is there anything I might add to the front or
around your vehicle. You do not want the system to sides of the vehicle that could keep the
inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. airbags from working properly?
Your dealer and the service manual have information
about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system.
A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s
frame, bumper system, front end or side sheet
To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications
Ordering Information on page 7-14. metal or height, they may keep the airbag system
from working properly. Also, the airbag system may
not work properly if you relocate any of the airbag
sensors. If you have any questions about this,
{CAUTION: you should contact Customer Assistance before
you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers
For up to 20 seconds after the ignition key is and addresses for Customer Assistance are in
turned off and the battery is disconnected, an Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure
airbag can still inflate during improper service. in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction
You can be injured if you are close to an airbag Procedure on page 7-2.
when it inflates. 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 qualified to do so.
1-70
Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my Restraint System Check
vehicle modified. How can I find out whether
this will affect my airbag system? Checking the Restraint Systems
A: Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light
safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors
module (located under the center console), or the and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other
instrument panel can affect the operation of loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see
the airbag system. If you have questions, call anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing
Customer Assistance. The phone numbers its job, have it repaired.
and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a
Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt
in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
Procedure on page 7-2.
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, or the side
impact airbag covering on the garnish trim and
ceiling near the side windows (if equipped),
the airbag may not work properly. You may have to
replace the airbag module in the steering wheel,
both the airbag module and the instrument panel for
the right front passenger’s airbag, or side impact
airbag module, garnish trim and ceiling covering for
roof-mounted side impact airbags (if equipped).
Do not open or break the airbag coverings.
1-71
Replacing Restraint System Parts If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision
damage also may mean you will need to have LATCH
After a Crash 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
{CAUTION: the collision.
If an airbag inflates, you will need to replace airbag
system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier
A crash can damage the restraint systems in
in this section.
your vehicle. A damaged restraint system
may not properly protect the person using it, If the airbags inflate you will also need to replace the
resulting in serious injury or even death in a driver and front passenger’s safety belt retractor
assembly. Be sure to do so. Then the new retractor
crash. To help make sure your restraint
assembly will be there to help protect you in a collision.
systems are working properly after a crash,
have them inspected and any necessary After a crash you may need to replace the driver and
replacements made as soon as possible. front passenger’s safety belt retractor assemblies, even
if the airbags have not deployed. The driver and
front passenger’s safety belt retractor assemblies
If you have had a crash, do you need new belts or contain the safety belt pretensioners. Have your safety
LATCH system parts? belt pretensioners checked if your vehicle has been
in a collision, or if your airbag readiness light stays on
After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. after you start your vehicle or while you are driving.
But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if See Airbag Readiness Light on page 3-28.
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.
1-72
Section 2 Features and Controls
Keys ...............................................................2-3 Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ................2-20
Remote Keyless Entry System .........................2-5 New Vehicle Break-In ....................................2-20
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...........2-6 Ignition Positions ..........................................2-20
Doors and Locks ............................................2-10 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...................2-23
Door Locks ..................................................2-10 Starting the Engine .......................................2-23
Power Door Locks ........................................2-10 Engine Coolant Heater ..................................2-25
Delayed Locking ...........................................2-11 Automatic Transaxle Operation .......................2-26
Automatic Door Lock .....................................2-11 Manual Transaxle Operation ...........................2-28
Programmable Automatic Door Unlock .............2-11 Parking Brake ..............................................2-30
Rear Door Security Locks ..............................2-12 Shifting Into Park (P)
Lockout Protection ........................................2-12 (Automatic Transaxle) ................................2-31
Liftgate ........................................................2-13 Shifting Out of Park (P)
(Automatic Transaxle) ................................2-33
Windows ........................................................2-14 Parking Your Vehicle .....................................2-33
Power Windows ............................................2-15 Parking Over Things That Burn .......................2-34
Sun Visors ...................................................2-16 Engine Exhaust ............................................2-34
Theft-Deterrent Systems ..................................2-16 Running the Engine While Parked ...................2-35
Content Theft-Deterrent .................................2-16
PASS-Key® III+ ............................................2-18
PASS-Key® III+ Operation ..............................2-18
2-1
Section 2 Features and Controls
Mirrors ...........................................................2-36 Storage Areas ................................................2-43
Manual Rearview Mirror .................................2-36 Glove Box ...................................................2-43
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Cupholder(s) ................................................2-43
OnStar® and Compass ...............................2-36 Instrument Panel Storage Area .......................2-43
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Floor Console Storage Area ...........................2-43
OnStar®, Compass and Temperature Rear Storage Area ........................................2-43
Display ....................................................2-38 Rear Compartment Storage Panel/Cover ..........2-44
Outside Power Mirrors ...................................2-40 Roof Rack System ........................................2-46
Outside Convex Mirror ...................................2-40 Convenience Net ..........................................2-46
OnStar® System .............................................2-41 Sunroof .........................................................2-47
2-2
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.
2-3
One key is used for the Keep the bar code tag that came with the original keys.
ignition and the driver’s Give this tag to your dealer if you need a new key made.
door lock.
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.
In an emergency, contact Roadside Assistance.
See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6 for
more information.
If your vehicle is equipped with the OnStar® system with
an active subscription and you lock your keys inside
the vehicle, OnStar® may be able to send a command to
unlock your vehicle. See OnStar® System on page 2-41
for more information.
The key has a transponder in the key head that matches
a decoder in the vehicle’s steering column. If a
replacement key or any additional keys are needed,
you must purchase it from your dealer.
2-4
Remote Keyless Entry System At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is
normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the
Your keyless entry system operates on a radio transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer
frequency subject to Federal Communications to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this:
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. • Check the distance. You may be too far from your
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. vehicle. You may need to stand closer during
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: rainy or snowy weather.
1. This device may not cause interference. • Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may
2. This device must accept any interference received, be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the
including interference that may cause undesired left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and
operation of the device. try again.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. • Check to determine if battery replacement is
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: necessary. See “Battery Replacement” under
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on
1. This device may not cause interference. page 2-6.
2. This device must accept any interference received, • If you are still having trouble, see your dealer or a
including interference that may cause undesired qualified technician for service.
operation of the device.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than
an authorized service facility could void authorization to
use this equipment.
2-5
Remote Keyless Entry System The following functions may be available if your vehicle
has the remote keyless entry system:
Operation / (Remote Vehicle Start): If your vehicle has this
The vehicle’s doors can be locked and unlocked from feature, you can start the engine from outside the
about 3 feet (1 m) up to 60 feet (18 m) away with vehicle. See “Remote Vehicle Start” at the end of this
the remote keyless entry transmitter. section for more detailed information.
Q (Lock): Press the lock button to lock all the doors.
The interior lamps will turn off after all of the doors
are closed. If enabled through the Driver Information
Center (DIC), the parking lamps will flash once to
indicate locking has occurred. If enabled through the
DIC, the horn will also chirp to indicate locking has
occurred. Pressing the lock button may arm the content
theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent
on page 2-16.
" (Unlock): Press the unlock button to unlock the
driver’s door. If the button is pressed again within
five seconds, all remaining doors and the liftgate will
unlock. The interior lamps will come on and stay on for
Remote Keyless Entry Remote Keyless Entry
20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. If enabled
with Remote Start without Remote Start
through the DIC, the hazard lamps will flash twice
to indicate unlocking has occurred and if it is dark
outside, the high beams and parking lamps will turn on
and stay on for 20 seconds or until a door is opened.
See LIGHT FLASH and EXT (Exterior) LIGHTS
under DIC Vehicle Personalization on page 3-45 for
additional information.
2-6
L (Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): This button may Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle
be used to locate your vehicle. Press and release
this button to activate the vehicle locate feature. Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to
The horn will chirp three times and the headlamps and prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle.
parking lamps will flash three times. Press and hold If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can
the button for three seconds to sound the panic alarm. be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring
The horn will chirp and the headlamps and parking any remaining transmitters with you when you go to
lamps will flash for 30 seconds. Press the button again your dealer in case they need to be re-coded.
to cancel the panic alarm. Each vehicle can have a maximum of four transmitters
matched to it.
Programmable Horn Chirp
Battery Replacement
Through the DIC, you may choose whether or not to
have a horn chirp when you use the remote keyless Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless
entry transmitter to lock or unlock the doors. entry transmitter should last about four years.
See “LOCK HORN” and “UNLOCK HORN” under You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter will not
DIC Vehicle Personalization on page 3-45 for more work at the normal range in any location. If you have
information. to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works,
it is probably time to change the battery.
The KEY FOB BATT LOW message in the vehicle’s
DIC will display if the remote keyless entry transmitter
battery is low.
2-7
Notice: When replacing the battery, use care not to Remote Vehicle Start
touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body
transferred to these surfaces may damage the Your vehicle may have a remote start feature.
transmitter. This feature allows you to start the engine from outside
the vehicle. It may also start the vehicle’s heating or
air conditioning systems. See Climate Control System on
page 3-19 for additional information.
Laws in some local communities may restrict the use of
remote starters. For example, some laws may require
a person using remote start to have the vehicle in view
when doing so. Check local regulations for any
requirements on remote starting of vehicles.
2-8
To start the engine using the remote start feature, If you enter the vehicle after a remote start, and the
do the following: engine is running, insert the key into the ignition switch
1. Aim the remote keyless entry transmitter at the and turn it to the RUN position to drive the vehicle.
vehicle. To manually shut off the engine after a remote start,
2. Press and release the transmitter’s lock button, do any of the following:
then immediately press and hold the remote • Aim the remote keyless entry transmitter at the
vehicle start button for four seconds or until the vehicle and press the remote start button until
vehicle’s turn signal lamps flash. The vehicle’s doors the parking lamps turn off.
will be locked. • Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard
3. When the vehicle’s engine starts, the parking lamps Warning Flashers on page 3-6.
will turn on and remain on while the engine is • Insert the vehicle’s key into the ignition switch and
running. turn the switch to RUN and then back to LOCK.
After a remote start, the engine will automatically shut The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if:
off after 10 minutes unless a time extension has
been done or the vehicle’s key is inserted into the • The remote start system is disabled through the DIC.
ignition switch and turned to RUN. • The vehicle’s key is in the ignition.
The maximum number of remote starts between ignition • The vehicle’s hood is open
cycles with the key is two.
• The hazard warning flashers are on.
If the remote start procedure is used again before
the first 10 minute time frame has ended, the first
• There is an emission control system malfunction.
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 3-35.
10 minutes will immediately expire and the second
10 minute time frame will start. • The engine coolant temperature is too high.
After two remote starts have been provided, the • The oil pressure is low.
vehicle’s ignition switch must be turned to RUN and • Two remote vehicle starts have already been
then back to LOCK using the key, before the remote provided.
start procedure can be used again.
2-9
Doors and Locks There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
To lock the driver’s door from the outside, turn the
Door Locks key clockwise. To unlock the door, turn the key
counterclockwise.
You can also use the remote keyless entry transmitter
{CAUTION: to lock and unlock the doors.
From the inside, use the manual lock knobs on each
Unlocked doors can be dangerous. door or the power door lock switch to lock and unlock
all doors.
• Passengers — especially children — can
easily open the doors and fall out of a
moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the Power Door Locks
handle will not open it. You increase the The power door lock
chance of being thrown out of the vehicle switches are located on
in a crash if the doors are not locked. the driver’s and front
So, wear safety belts properly and lock the passenger’s door next to
doors whenever you drive. the door handle.
• 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 Driver’s side shown,
unlocked door when you slow down or
Passenger’s side similar
stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can
help prevent this from happening. Press the top of the switch to unlock the doors.
Press the bottom of the switch to lock the doors.
2-10
Delayed Locking Automatic Door Lock
This feature will delay the actual locking of the doors If your vehicle has power door locks, the doors will
and liftgate when the power door lock switch or remote automatically lock when the shift lever is moved out of
keyless entry transmitter is used to lock the vehicle. PARK (P) for a vehicle with an automatic transaxle.
If any door is open when locking the vehicle, For a vehicle with a manual transaxle, the speed must
be greater than 5 mph (8 km/h).
three chimes will sound signaling that the delayed
locking feature is active. Five seconds after the last The automatic door locking feature cannot be disabled.
door is closed, all of the doors and liftgate will lock.
The turn signal lamps will flash to indicate that the
doors have been locked. To cancel the delay and lock
Programmable Automatic Door
the doors immediately, press the lock button a Unlock
second time.
Your vehicle will automatically unlock all doors when the
If the key is in the ignition this feature will not lock shift lever is moved into PARK (P) for a vehicle with
the doors. an automatic transaxle, and when the ignition is turned
If your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC), off for a vehicle with a manual transaxle.
you can disable this function. See DIC Vehicle If your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC),
Personalization on page 3-45. the doors can be programmed to automatically
unlock several ways for vehicles with an automatic
transaxle. See DIC Vehicle Personalization on
page 3-45 for more information.
2-11
Rear Door Security Locks To open a rear door while the security lock is on,
do the following:
Your vehicle has rear door security locks which prevent 1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless entry
passengers from opening the rear doors from the inside. transmitter, the power door lock switch, or by
lifting the rear door manual lock.
The rear door security
locks are located on the 2. Open the door from the outside.
inside edge of each To cancel the rear door security lock, do the following:
rear door. You must
open the rear doors to 1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside.
access them. 2. Insert the key into the lock below the rear door
security lock label and turn it to the vertical
position.
3. Repeat the steps for the other lock.
Lockout Protection
If you press the power door lock switch when the key is
To set the security locks, do the following: in the ignition and any door is open, all the doors will
lock and the driver’s door will unlock. Be sure to remove
1. Insert the key into the lock below the rear door the key from the ignition when locking your vehicle.
security lock label and turn it to the horizontal
position. The lockout protection can be overridden by pressing
and holding the power door lock in the lock position for
2. Close the door. three seconds.
3. Repeat the steps for the other rear door.
2-12
Liftgate
To unlock or lock the liftgate from the outside, use the {CAUTION:
remote keyless entry transmitter. For more information,
see Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate
page 2-6. You can also use the power door lock switch open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can
to lock and unlock the liftgate. come into your vehicle. You cannot see or
Open the liftgate using the handle located above the smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and
license plate. Once slightly opened, the liftgate will rise even death. If you must drive with the liftgate
by itself. Lamps in the rear of the vehicle will come open or if electrical wiring or other cable
on, illuminating the rear cargo area. connections must pass through the seal
Notice: If you open the liftgate without checking between the body and the liftgate:
for overhead obstructions such as a garage • Make sure all other windows are shut.
door, you could break the liftgate glass. Always • Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
check to make sure the area above the liftgate system to its highest speed and select the
is clear before opening it. control setting that will force outside air
into your vehicle. See Climate Control
System on page 3-19.
• If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.
See Engine Exhaust on page 2-34.
2-13
Emergency Liftgate Release Windows
If the vehicle loses power, the liftgate must be opened
manually from the inside.
To open the liftgate, do the following: {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.
2-14
Power Windows
2-15
Express-Down Window Theft-Deterrent Systems
The driver’s window switch has an express-down
feature that allows the window to be lowered without Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
holding the switch. The switch is labeled AUTO. Press Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent
the bottom of the switch part way, and the driver’s features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it
window will open a small amount. Press the switch down impossible to steal.
all the way down and release it and the window will
go down automatically. Content Theft-Deterrent
To stop the window while it is lowering, press and
release the top of the switch. Your vehicle may have a
content theft-deterrent
Window Lockout alarm system. If your
vehicle has remote keyless
o (Window Lockout): Your vehicle has a lockout
entry, then it has content
feature to prevent rear seat passengers from operating theft-deterrent.
the windows. Press the lockout button, located with
the power window switches, to turn the feature on and
off. When the red band on the button is showing,
the lockout feature is off. Arming the System
With the ignition off, you can arm the system by doing
Sun Visors any one of the following:
To block out glare, swing down the visor(s). The sun
visors can also be detached from the center mount and • Press the remote keyless entry transmitter lock
swung out to cover the side windows. They can also button.
be slid along the rod to cover different areas of the • Press the power door lock switch while the driver’s
front window. door is open.
Visor Vanity Mirrors
Your vehicle has visor vanity mirrors. Swing down the
sun visor and lift the cover to expose the mirror.
2-16
The system will arm after either of these things occur: How the System Alarm is Activated
• Thirty seconds after all the doors are closed. If the system is armed, it can be activated by either:
• Sixty seconds with any door open. • Opening the driver’s door or tailgate. This will
If you press the lock button on the transmitter a second cause a ten second pre-alarm chirp followed by a
time while all the doors are closed, the system will thirty second full alarm of horn and lights.
arm immediately. The system will still arm in 60 seconds • Opening any other door. This will immediately cause
if a door is open. When the open door is closed, it will a full alarm of horn and lights for thirty seconds.
also become armed.
When an alarm event has finished, the system will
The security light will turn on to indicate that arming has re-arm itself automatically.
been initiated. Once the system is armed, the security
light will flash once every three seconds. How to Turn Off the System Alarm
If the security light is flashing twice per second, this To turn off the system alarm, do one of the following:
means that a door is open.
• Press the lock button on the remote keyless
If you do not want to arm the system, you may lock the entry transmitter. The system will then re-arm itself.
car with the manual lock knobs on the doors.
• Press the unlock button on the remote keyless entry
Disarming the System transmitter. This will also disarm the system.
You can disarm the system by doing any one of the • Insert the key in the ignition and turn it on. This will
following: also disarm the system.
• Press the remote keyless entry transmitter How to Detect a Tamper Condition
unlock button.
• Turn the ignition on. If you hear three chirps when you press the unlock or
lock buttons on the remote keyless transmitter, it means
Once the system is disarmed, the security light will that the content theft security system alarm was
stop flashing. previously activated.
2-17
PASS-Key® III+ PASS-Key® III+ Operation
The PASS-Key® III+ system operates on a radio Your vehicle has PASS-Key® III+ (Personalized
frequency subject to Federal Communications Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system.
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. PASS-Key® III+ is a passive theft-deterrent system.
This means you do not have to do anything special to
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. arm or disarm the system. It works when you insert
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: or remove the key from the ignition.
1. This device may not cause harmful interference. When the PASS-Key® III+ system senses that someone
2. This device must accept any interference received, is using the wrong key, it prevents the vehicle from
including interference that may cause undesired starting. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start
operation. the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high
number of electrical key codes.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions: When trying to start the vehicle if the engine does not
1. This device may not cause interference. start and the security light comes on, the key may
have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off
2. This device must accept any interference received, and try again.
including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device. If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to
be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time,
Changes or modifications to this system by other than you may also want to check the fuse, see Fuses and
an authorized service facility could void authorization to Circuit Breakers on page 5-82. If the engine still
use this equipment. does not start with the other key, your vehicle needs
PASS-Key® III+ uses a radio frequency transponder in service. If your vehicle does start, the first key
the key that matches a decoder in your vehicle. may be faulty. See your dealer who can service the
2-18
PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. In an 3. After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK,
emergency, contact Roadside Assistance. and remove the key.
See Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6, 4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to the
for more information. RUN position within five seconds of the original key
It is possible for the PASS-Key® III+ decoder to “learn” being turned to the LOCK position.
the transponder value of a new or replacement key. 5. The security light will turn off once the key has
Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. been programmed.
The following procedure is for programming additional
keys only. If all the currently programmed keys are 6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys are to
lost or do not operate, you must see your dealer or a be programmed.
locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have keys If you are ever driving and the security light comes on
made and programmed to the system. and stays on, you may be able to restart your engine if
See your dealer or a locksmith who can service you turn it off. Your PASS-Key® III+ system, however,
PASS-Key® III+ to get a new key blank that is cut is not working properly and must be serviced by
exactly as the ignition key that operates the system. your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the
PASS-Key® III+ system at this time.
To program the new key do the following:
If you lose or damage your PASS-Key® III+ key,
1. Verify that the new key has “+” stamped on it. see your dealer or a locksmith who can service
2. Insert the already programmed key in the ignition PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made.
and start the engine. If the engine will not start,
see your dealer for service.
2-19
Starting and Operating Ignition Positions
Your Vehicle With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn it to
four different positions.
New Vehicle Break-In
Notice: Your vehicle does not need an elaborate
break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if
you follow these guidelines:
• Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or
slow, for the first 500 miles (805 km). Do not
make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to
brake, or slow, the vehicle.
• Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles
(322 km) or so. During this time your new brake
linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops with new
Notice: Using a tool to force the key from the
linings can mean premature wear and earlier
ignition switch could cause damage or break the
replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with
every time you get new brake linings.
your hand. Make sure the key is all the way in. If
• Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See Towing it is, turn the steering wheel left and right while you
a Trailer (Manual Transaxle) on page 4-39 or turn the key hard. If none of this works, then
Towing a Trailer (Automatic Transaxle) on your vehicle needs service.
page 4-39 for the trailer towing capabilities of
your vehicle and more information.
Following break-in, engine speed and load can be
gradually increased.
2-20
9(LOCK): This position locks your steering column. ACC (ACCESSORY): This position operates some of
It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able your electrical accessories. It unlocks the steering wheel
to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. and ignition.
If you have an automatic transaxle, the ignition switch R (RUN): This is the position the switch returns to
cannot be turned to LOCK unless the shift lever is after you start your engine and release the switch.
in PARK (P). The switch stays in the RUN position when the engine
is running. But even when the ignition is not running,
If you have a manual transaxle, the ignition switch can
you can use RUN to operate your electrical accessories
be turned to LOCK in any shift lever position.
and to display some warning and indicator lights.
2-21
Column Lock Release
The following procedure allows the ignition to be turned
to LOCK and for ignition key removal in case of a
dead battery or low voltage battery.
1. Make sure the shift lever is in PARK (P).
2-22
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) Starting the Engine
Your vehicle has a Retained Accessory Power (RAP) Automatic Transaxle
feature which allow’s the radio, power windows, and
sunroof to continue to work up to 10 minutes after the Move the shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
ignition is turned off. The engine will not start in any other position — that is
Your vehicle’s radio will work when the ignition key is in a safety feature. To restart when you are already
RUN or ACC. Once the key is turned from RUN to moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
LOCK, the radio will continue to work for 10 minutes or Notice: Shifting into PARK (P) with the vehicle
until the driver’s door is opened. Also, the power moving could damage the transaxle. Shift into
windows and sunroof will continue to work for up to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
10 minutes or until any door is opened.
Manual Transaxle
The shift lever should be in NEUTRAL and the parking
brake engaged. Hold the clutch pedal to the floor
and start the engine. Your vehicle will not start if the
clutch pedal is not all the way down — that is a
safety feature.
2-23
Starting Procedure 3. If the engine still will not start, or starts but then
stops, it could be flooded with too much gasoline.
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the
ignition to START. When the engine starts, let go floor and holding it there as you hold the key in
of the key. The idle speed will go down as your START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts
engine gets warm. briefly but then stops again, do the same thing,
Notice: Holding your key in START for longer than but this time keep the pedal down for five or
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from
be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat the engine.
can damage your starter motor. Wait about Notice: Your engine is designed to work with the
15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
your battery or damaging your starter. parts or accessories, you could change the way the
2. If it does not start, wait about 15 seconds and try engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment,
again to start the engine by turning the ignition to check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine
START. Wait about 15 seconds between each try. might not perform properly. Any resulting damage
would not be covered by your vehicle’s warranty.
When the engine has run about 10 seconds to warm
up, your vehicle is ready to be driven. Do not run your
engine at high speed when it is cold.
If the weather is below freezing (32°F or 0°C),
let the engine run for a few minutes to warm up.
2-24
Engine Coolant Heater
If your vehicle has this feature, in very cold weather {CAUTION:
0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater
can help. You will get easier starting and better fuel Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant could cause an electrical shock. Also, the
heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours wrong kind of extension cord could overheat
prior to starting your vehicle. At temperatures above
and cause a fire. You could be seriously
32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required.
injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will
not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong
1. Turn off the engine.
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
For the 2.2L and 2.4L engine, the electrical cord
is located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle 4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and
near the headlamp and the radiator. store the cord as it was before to keep it away
from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
be damaged.
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
a GM dealer in the area where you will be parking
your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice
for that particular area.
2-25
Automatic Transaxle Operation
If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle, {CAUTION:
the shift lever is located on the console between
the seats. It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
There are several different
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
positions for the automatic
transaxle. 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) (Automatic Transaxle)
on page 2-31. If you are pulling a trailer, see
Towing a Trailer (Manual Transaxle) on
PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It is page 4-39 or Towing a Trailer (Automatic
the best position to use when you start your engine
Transaxle) on page 4-39.
because your vehicle cannot move easily.
2-26
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine does not
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle connect with the wheels. To restart when you are
shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.
the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of
PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever — push the
shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and also release
the shift lever button as you maintain brake application.
{CAUTION:
Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish.
Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever. Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is
See Shifting Out of Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle) on running at high speed is dangerous. Unless
page 2-33. your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your
vehicle could move very rapidly. You could
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. lose control and hit people or objects. Do not
Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle shift into a drive gear while your engine is
is moving forward could damage the transaxle. running at high speed.
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
stopped. while the engine is running at high speed may
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on running at high speeds when shifting your vehicle.
page 4-30. Notice: Shifting to a drive gear from NEUTRAL (N)
while the vehicle is moving could damage the
transaxle. Make sure the vehicle is stopped before
shifting from NEUTRAL (N) into a drive gear.
2-27
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for LOW (L): This position gives you even more power
normal driving with the automatic transaxle. If you need but lower fuel economy than INTERMEDIATE (I).
more power for passing, and you are: You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or
• Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your mud. If the shift lever is put in LOW (L), the transaxle
accelerator pedal about halfway down. will not shift into LOW (L) until the vehicle is going
slowly enough.
• Going about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your
accelerator all the way down. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle
in one place on a hill using only the accelerator
INTERMEDIATE (I): This position is also used for pedal may damage the transaxle. If you are stuck,
normal driving. However, it offers braking from do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill,
the engine for slight downgrades where the vehicle use the brakes, or parking brake to hold the vehicle
would otherwise accelerate due to steepness of grade. in place.
If repetitive shifts occur between third and fourth
gears on steep uphills, this position can be used to
prevent repetitive shifting. Fuel economy will be lower Manual Transaxle Operation
than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). Here are some This is the shift pattern.
times you might choose INTERMEDIATE (I) instead of
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D):
• When driving on hilly, winding roads.
• When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears.
2-28
Here is how to operate the manual transaxle: NEUTRAL: Use this position when you start or idle
your engine.
FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into
FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch
you press the accelerator pedal. pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch
pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal.
You can shift into FIRST (1) when you are going less
than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you have come to a complete Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle
stop and it is hard to shift into FIRST (1), put the shift is moving forward could damage the transaxle.
lever in NEUTRAL and let up on the clutch. Press The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1). Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is
stopped.
SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up
on the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake,
Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the for parking your vehicle.
accelerator pedal.
Shift Speeds
THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into
THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5) the same way
you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch
pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.
{CAUTION:
To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the If you skip a gear when you downshift, you
brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press could lose control of your vehicle. You could
the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to injure yourself or others. Do not shift down
NEUTRAL. more than one gear at a time when you
downshift.
2-29
Up-Shift Light Parking Brake
If your vehicle has a
manual transaxle, it may
have an up-shift light.
This light will show
you when to shift to the
next higher gear for
the best fuel economy.
United States Only
When this light comes on, you can shift to the next
higher gear if weather, road and traffic conditions let you.
For the best fuel economy, accelerate slowly and shift
when the light comes on.
While you accelerate, it is normal for the light to go on
The parking brake lever is located between the front seats.
and off if you quickly change the position of the
accelerator. Ignore the light when you downshift.
{CAUTION:
If the front passenger seat back is folded
down, the armrest may make it awkward to
grab and pull up the parking brake lever. If the
lever is not pulled up far enough, your vehicle
may roll and you or others could be injured.
Move your hand lower on the lever or raise the
seat back so that you can set the brake.
2-30
To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down Shifting Into Park (P)
and pull up on the parking brake lever. If the ignition is
on, the brake system warning light will come on. (Automatic Transaxle)
See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-32.
To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal
down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can press
{CAUTION:
the release button. Hold the release button in as you
move the brake lever all the way down. It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle
If you forget to release your parking brake, a chime will if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with
sound and a warning message will be displayed the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can
when the parking brake is applied and the vehicle is roll. If you have left the engine running, the
moving faster than 5 mph (8 kph). See DIC Warnings vehicle can move suddenly. You or others
and Messages on page 3-42. could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will
not move, even when you are on fairly level
Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can ground, use the steps that follow. If you are
overheat the brake system and cause premature
pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer (Manual
wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that
Transaxle) on page 4-39 or Towing a Trailer
the parking brake is fully released and the brake
warning light is off before driving. (Automatic Transaxle) on page 4-39.
1. Hold the brake pedal down and set the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by holding the
button on the shift lever and pushing the lever all
the way toward the front of the vehicle.
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).
2-31
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Torque Lock
Engine Running If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift your
transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the
vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in
{CAUTION: the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift
lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.”
To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the
the engine running. Your vehicle could move driver’s seat. To find out how, see Shifting Into Park (P)
suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in (Automatic Transaxle) on page 2-31.
PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of
And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine PARK (P) before you release the parking brake.
running, it could overheat and even catch fire.
You or others could be injured. Do not leave If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another
vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the
your vehicle with the engine running.
pressure from the parking pawl in the transaxle,
then you will be able to pull the shift lever out of
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine PARK (P).
running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your
parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you
have moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the
regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move
the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pushing
the button. If you can, it means that the shift lever
was not fully locked into PARK (P).
2-32
Shifting Out of Park (P) If you still are unable to shift out of PARK (P):
1. Fully release the shift lever button.
(Automatic Transaxle)
2. While holding down the brake pedal, press the shift
This vehicle is equipped with an electronic shift lock lever button again.
release system. The shift lock release is designed to:
3. Move the shift lever to the desired position.
• Prevent ignition key removal unless the shift
If you still cannot move the shift lever from PARK (P),
lever is in PARK (P) with the shift lever button
consult your dealer or a professional towing service.
fully released, and
• Prevent movement of the shift lever out of PARK (P)
unless the ignition is in a position other than LOCK.
Parking Your Vehicle
The shift lock release is always functional except in the Before leaving your vehicle, fully press the clutch pedal
case of a an uncharged or low voltage (less than 9 volt) in, move the shift lever into REVERSE (R), and firmly
battery. apply the parking brake. Once the shift lever has
been placed in REVERSE (R) with the clutch pedal
If your vehicle has an uncharged battery or a battery pressed in, you can turn the ignition key to LOCK,
with low voltage, try charging or jump starting the remove the key and release the clutch. See Manual
battery. See Jump Starting on page 5-33 for more Transaxle Operation on page 2-28.
information.
To shift out of PARK (P) use the following sequence:
1. Apply the brake pedal.
2. Then press the shift lever button.
3. Move the shift lever to the desired position.
2-33
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust
{CAUTION:
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas
carbon monoxide (CO), which you cannot see or
smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.
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.
• 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 had been
modified improperly.
{CAUTION: If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your
vehicle:
Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust • Drive it only with all the windows down to
parts under your vehicle and ignite. Do not blow out any CO; and
park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other • Have your vehicle fixed immediately.
things that can burn.
2-34
Running the Engine While Parked
It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you {CAUTION:
ever have to, here are some things to know.
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle
if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with
{CAUTION: the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can
roll. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine
Idling the engine with the climate control is running unless you have to. If you have left
system off could allow dangerous exhaust into the engine running, the vehicle can move
your vehicle. See the earlier caution under suddenly. You or others could be injured.
Engine Exhaust on page 2-34. To be sure your vehicle will not move, even
Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly when you are on fairly level ground, always set
carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if your parking brake and move the shift lever to
the climate control fan is at the highest setting. PARK (P).
One place this can happen is a garage.
Exhaust — with CO — can come in easily. Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will not
NEVER park in a garage with the engine move. See Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle)
running. on page 2-31.
Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. If you are parking on a hill and if you are pulling a
See Winter Driving on page 4-26. trailer, also see Towing a Trailer (Manual Transaxle) on
page 4-39 or Towing a Trailer (Automatic Transaxle)
on page 4-39.
2-35
Mirrors There are three additional buttons for the OnStar®
system. See your dealer for more information on the
system and how to subscribe to OnStar®. See OnStar®
Manual Rearview Mirror in the Index for more information.
To reduce glare from lamps behind you, move the lever Compass Operation
toward you to the night position. Your vehicle may
also have reading lamps. Press the buttons, located Press the on/off button once to turn the compass on
under the mirror, up to turn the lamps on or off. or off.
When the ignition and the compass feature are on,
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror the compass will show two character boxes for a
few seconds. After a few seconds, the mirror will display
with OnStar® and Compass the current compass direction.
Your vehicle may have an automatic dimming rearview
mirror with OnStar®, a compass and reading lamps.
Compass Calibration
This feature enables the mirror to sense nighttime glare If after a few seconds the display does not show a
from vehicle headlamps from behind and automatically compass direction, (N for North for example), there may
dim to reduce the glare to a safe level. be a strong magnetic field interfering with the compass.
The automatic dimming feature turns on each time the Such interference may be caused by a magnetic
vehicle is started. Press the OFF button once and antenna mount, note pad holder, or similar object. If the
the green indicator light located to the left of the button letter C appears in the compass window, the compass
will go out indicating the feature is off. To turn the may need to be reset or calibrated.
feature back on, press and release the AUTO button The mirror can be calibrated by driving the vehicle in
and the green indicator light will come on. circles at 5 mph (8 km/h) or less until the display reads
The reading lamps, located under the mirror, can be a direction.
turned on or off by pushing the buttons up.
2-36
Compass Variance
Compass variance is the difference between earth’s
magnetic north and true geographic north. If the mirror
is not adjusted for compass variance, the compass
could give false readings.
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
driven outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances,
such as a long distance, cross-country trip, it will be
necessary to adjust the compass variance.
To adjust for compass variance, do the following:
1. Find your current location and variance zone
number on the zone map that follows.
2-37
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror Temperature and Compass Display
with OnStar®, Compass and Press the on/off button, located in the center, to cycle
between °F, °C and off. If the display reads CAL,
Temperature Display the compass needs to be calibrated. For more
If the vehicle has this feature, the automatic dimming information, see “Compass Calibration” later in this
mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize section.
glare at night from lights behind your vehicle. If an abnormal temperature reading is displayed for an
The mirror also has a dual display in the upper right extended period of time, please consult your dealer.
corner of the mirror that shows the compass reading and Under certain circumstances, a delay in updating
the outside temperature. the temperature is normal.
There are three additional buttons for the OnStar® Compass Variance
system. See your dealer for more information on the
system and how to subscribe to OnStar®. See OnStar® Compass variance is the difference between earth’s
in the Index for more information. magnetic north and true geographic north. If not
adjusted to account for compass variance, the mirror’s
Y On/Off: Press this button to operate the automatic compass could give false readings. The mirror is
dimming, compass and temperature features. set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be
necessary to adjust the compass to compensate
Automatic Dimming Mirror Operation for compass variance if you live outside zone eight.
Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance
The automatic dimming mirror function is turned on each cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for
time the ignition is started. A light near the on/off button compass variance.
will come on to indicate the automatic dimming is on.
If the automatic dimming function is off, press and hold
the on/off button for four seconds to manually turn the
system back on.
2-38
To adjust for compass variance: Compass Calibration
1. Find the current location and variance zone number The compass may need calibration if one of the
on the following zone map. following occurs:
2. Press and hold the on/off button for five seconds • If CAL is displayed while driving in the vehicle.
until the word ZONE appears in the display.
The compass is now in zone mode. • After approximately five seconds, the display does
not show a compass heading (N for North, for
3. Press and release the on/off button within example), there may be a strong magnetic field
five seconds until the new zone number appears interfering with the compass. Such interference may
in the display. The display will show a compass be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic
direction within a few seconds. 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 on/off button for approximately eight 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.
2-39
Outside Power Mirrors Outside Convex Mirror
The controls for the
outside power mirrors are
located on the driver’s {CAUTION:
door armrest.
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.
Press the left or right side of the selector switch located The passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex
beneath the control pad to choose the left or right mirror. mirror’s surface is curved so more can be seen from
To adjust the mirror, press one of the four arrows the driver’s seat. It also makes things appear farther
located on the control pad to move the mirror in the away than they really are.
direction you want it to go. Adjust each outside mirror so
that you can see a little of your vehicle, and the area
behind your vehicle.
Adjust each mirror so a little of the side of the vehicle
can be seen while sitting in a comfortable driving
position. These mirrors are designed to break away
when necessary.
2-40
OnStar® System A complete OnStar® User’s Guide and the Terms and
Conditions of the OnStar® Subscription Service
Agreement are included in the vehicle’s glove box
literature. For more information, visit www.onstar.com or
www.onstar.ca. Contact OnStar® at 1-888-4-ONSTAR
(1-888-466-7827), or press the OnStar® button to speak
to an OnStar® advisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Terms and conditions of the Subscription Service
Agreement can be found at www.onstar.com or
www.onstar.ca.
OnStar® uses global positioning system (GPS) satellite
technology, wireless communications, and live advisors
OnStar® Services
to provide you with a wide range of safety, security, For new vehicles equipped with OnStar®, the Safe and
information, and convenience services. If your airbags Sound Plan is included for one year from the date of
deploy, the system is designed to make an automatic call purchase. You can extend this plan beyond the
to OnStar® Emergency where we can request emergency first year, or upgrade to the Directions and Connections®
services be sent to your location. If you lock your keys in Plan to meet your needs. For more information, press
the car, call OnStar® at 1-888-4-ONSTAR and they can the OnStar® button to speak to an advisor.
send a signal to unlock your doors. If you need roadside
assistance, press the OnStar® button and they will get
you the help you need.
2-41
Safe and Sound Plan OnStar® Personal Calling
• Advanced Automatic Collision Notification As an OnStar® subscriber, the Personal Calling
• Automatic Notification of Airbag Deployment capability allows you to make hands-free calls using a
wireless system that is integrated into the vehicle.
• Emergency Services Calls can be placed nationwide using simple voice
• Roadside Assistance commands with no additional contracts and no additional
roaming charges. To find out more about OnStar®
• Stolen Vehicle Tracking Personal Calling, refer to the OnStar® User’s Guide in
• AccidentAssist the vehicle’s glove box, visit www.onstar.com or
www.onstar.ca, or speak to an OnStar® advisor by
• Remote Door Unlock/Vehicle Alert pressing the OnStar® button or calling 1-888-4-ONSTAR
• Remote Diagnostics (1-888-466-7827).
• Online Concierge OnStar® Virtual Advisor
Directions and Connections® Plan Your vehicle may have Virtual Advisor. It is a feature of
OnStar® Personal Calling that uses minutes to access
• All Safe and Sound Plan Services weather, local traffic reports, and stock quotes.
• Driving Directions By pressing the phone button and giving a few simple
voice commands, you can browse through the
• RideAssist various topics. Customize your information profile at
• Information and Convenience Services www.myonstar.com. See the OnStar® User’s Guide for
more information.
2-42
OnStar® Steering Wheel Controls Cupholder(s)
Your vehicle may be There are two cupholders located in the floor console
equipped with a Talk/Mute between the front seats. There is also a cupholder
button that can be used for the rear seat passenger located at the rear of the
to interact with OnStar®. floor console. They can be removed for cleaning.
See Audio Steering Wheel
Controls on page 3-72 Instrument Panel Storage Area
for more information.
Your vehicle has a storage compartment on the
instrument panel above the air vents. Push the button
When calling into voice-mail systems, or to dial directory on the compartment to open the lid.
numbers, press this button once, wait for the response,
say the number(s) to be dialed, wait for the number(s)
to be repeated and then say “dial”. See the OnStar® Floor Console Storage Area
User’s Guide for more information.
There are two small storage compartments on the floor
console, one at the front under the window switches
Storage Areas and one next to the parking brake lever. The rubber
liners can be removed for cleaning.
Glove Box
Rear Storage Area
Open the glove box by lifting up on the lever. Close the
glove box with a firm push. Your vehicle may have two rear storage areas that can
be used for the convenience net or other small items.
2-43
Rear Compartment Storage The panel can be used in this position if you need
additional space above the panel. Place the cargo on
Panel/Cover top of the panel in this position.
Your vehicle may be equipped with an adjustable
panel/cargo cover feature. The panel/cargo cover can
be adjusted into four positions. {CAUTION:
If you were to carry things on the adjustable
panel when it is in the upper (cargo cover) or
center positions, during a sudden vehicle
movement or a crash, those things could be
thrown around in the vehicle. You or others
could be injured. When it is in the upper or
center position, always secure any cargo on
the floor beneath the panel/cover.
2-44
This can be used as a cargo cover for the rear area.
It has hooks underneath for shopping bags.
The third position is with the front corners placed in the
lower guides and the rear corners placed in the
upper guides. Do not load cargo on the panel in this
position. The fourth position is with the front corners
placed in the lower guides closest to the rear seat for
subfloor access. Do not drive while the panel is in
this position.
Your vehicle is equipped with a cargo mat that covers
the panel/cargo cover. This mat can be rolled up
and secured to the cargo tie downs, by using the
two Velcro® straps provided.
2-45
Roof Rack System Notice: Loading cargo directly on the roof of the
vehicle may cause damage to the vehicle and would
Your vehicle may be equipped with a roof rack system. not be covered under warranty. Do not place cargo
on the roof the vehicle.
Do not exceed the maximum vehicle capacity when
{CAUTION: loading your vehicle. For more information on vehicle
capacity and loading, see Loading Your Vehicle on
page 4-32.
If you try to carry something on top of your
To prevent damage or loss of cargo as you are driving,
vehicle that is longer or wider than the luggage check frequently to ensure your cargo is securely
carrier — like paneling, plywood, a mattress fastened.
and so forth — the wind can catch it as you
The roof rack system has siderails that are attached to
drive along. This can cause you to lose the roof. All cargo must be loaded on the luggage
control. What you are carrying could be carrier crossrails only.
violently torn off, and this could cause you or
Use GM accessory racks that are compatible with your
other drivers to have a collision, and of course roof rack system, these are available at your GM dealer.
damage your vehicle. You may be able to carry
something like this inside. But, never carry Convenience Net
something longer or wider than the luggage Your vehicle may have a convenience net located on the
carrier on top of your vehicle. back wall of the cargo area. There are six metal rings in
the cargo area that the net can be attached to. Two are
on the floor behind the rear seat, two are on the floor near
Notice: Loading cargo on the luggage carrier that the liftgate and the last two are near the liftgate glass.
weighs more than 150 lbs (68 kg) or hangs over The net can be positioned on the liftgate using two rings
the rear sides of the vehicle may damage your securing the cargo in a envelope or using four rings,
vehicle. Load cargo so that it rests on the slats as keeping the cargo from falling over during sharp turns or
far forward as possible and against the side quick starts and stops. The net can also be positioned
rails making sure to fasten it securely. using the four rings on the floor, with cargo underneath.
The net is not for larger, heavier loads.
2-46
Sunroof Vent Open: To open the power sunroof to the vent
position from the closed position, press and hold
The vehicle may have a power sunroof. the passenger’s side sunroof switch forward. The rear
of the sunroof panel will tilt upward to the full vent
The switches that operate position. The sunshade must be opened manually.
the sunroof are located in
the headliner. Express Close: The express close feature will operate
from the open or partially open position. To express close
the power sunroof, fully press the driver’s side switch
forward once. To stop the sunroof glass in a desired
position other than closed, press the switch again in
either direction. The sunshade must be closed manually.
Close: To close the power sunroof, operate the controls
according to one of the following:
• From the open position, press and hold the driver’s
side sunroof switch forward. The sunshade must be
closed manually.
To open or close the sunroof, the ignition must be in
RUN, in ACC, or Retained Accessory Power (RAP) must • From the vent position, press and hold the
be active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on passenger’s side sunroof switch rearward.
page 2-23. Anti-Pinch: If an object is in the path of the sunroof
Express Open: The express open feature will operate while it is closing, the anti-pinch feature will detect the
from the closed or partially open position. To express object and stop the sunroof from closing at the point
open the power sunroof, fully press the driver’s side of the obstruction. The sunroof will then return to
switch rearward once. To stop the sunroof glass in a the full-open or vent position. To close the sunroof once
desired position other than to the express-open position, it has re-opened, refer to the two options previously
press the switch again, in either direction, to stop the described under the “Close” feature instructions.
movement. If the sunshade is in the closed position, it will
open with the sunroof, or it can be opened manually.
2-47
✍ NOTES
2-48
Section 3 Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel Overview ...............................3-4 Mirror Reading Lamps ...................................3-17
Hazard Warning Flashers ................................3-6 Rear Reading Lamps ....................................3-17
Other Warning Devices ...................................3-6 Battery Run-Down Protection ..........................3-17
Horn .............................................................3-6 Accessory Power Outlet(s) .............................3-18
Tilt Wheel .....................................................3-6 Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter ......................3-18
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever .........................3-7 Climate Controls ............................................3-19
Turn and Lane-Change Signals ........................3-7 Climate Control System .................................3-19
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer ..................3-8 Outlet Adjustment .........................................3-22
Flash-to-Pass .................................................3-8 Passenger Compartment Air Filter ...................3-22
Windshield Wipers ..........................................3-8
Windshield Washer .........................................3-9 Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators ............3-24
Rear Window Wiper/Washer ...........................3-10 Instrument Panel Cluster ................................3-25
Cruise Control ..............................................3-11 Speedometer and Odometer ...........................3-26
Headlamps ..................................................3-14 Tachometer .................................................3-26
Wiper Activated Headlamps ............................3-14 Safety Belt Reminder Light .............................3-27
Headlamps on Reminder ................................3-15 Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light .............3-27
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) .......................3-15 Airbag Readiness Light ..................................3-28
Automatic Headlamp System ..........................3-15 Passenger Airbag Status Indicator ...................3-29
Fog Lamps ..................................................3-16 Charging System Light ..................................3-31
Instrument Panel Brightness ...........................3-16 Up-Shift Light ...............................................3-32
Dome Lamp .................................................3-17 Brake System Warning Light ..........................3-32
Entry/Exit Lighting .........................................3-17 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light .............3-33
3-1
Section 3 Instrument Panel
Enhanced Traction System Warning Light .........3-34 Audio System(s) .............................................3-50
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light ......3-34 Setting the Time (Without Date Display) ...........3-51
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage ..................3-35 Setting the Time (With Date Display) ...............3-52
Malfunction Indicator Lamp .............................3-35 Radio with CD (Base) ...................................3-52
Oil Pressure Light .........................................3-38 Radio with CD (MP3) ....................................3-57
Security Light ...............................................3-39 Theft-Deterrent Feature ..................................3-72
Fog Lamp Light ............................................3-39 Audio Steering Wheel Controls .......................3-72
Highbeam On Light .......................................3-39 Radio Reception ...........................................3-73
Fuel Gage ...................................................3-40 Care of Your CDs .........................................3-74
Driver Information Center (DIC) .......................3-40 Care of the CD Player ...................................3-74
DIC Operation and Displays ...........................3-41 Fixed Mast Antenna ......................................3-74
DIC Warnings and Messages .........................3-42 XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System .............3-74
DIC Vehicle Personalization ............................3-45
3-2
✍ NOTES
3-3
Instrument Panel Overview
3-4
The main components of your instrument panel are the following:
A. Air Outlets. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-22. K. Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped).
B. Cruise Control Buttons (If Equipped). See Cruise See Audio Steering Wheel Controls on page 3-72.
Control on page 3-11. L. Instrument Panel Brightness Control. See Instrument
C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn Panel Brightness on page 3-16.
Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7. M. Audio System. See Audio System(s) on page 3-50.
D. Instrument Panel Cluster. See Instrument Panel N. Climate Controls. See Climate Control System
Cluster on page 3-25. on page 3-19.
E. Windshield Wiper/Washer Controls. See Windshield O. Rear Window Wiper/Washer Controls Rear Window
Wipers on page 3-8 and Windshield Washer on Wiper/Washer on page 3-10.
page 3-9. P. Shift Lever (Manual Shown). See Manual Transaxle
F. Storage Bin. See Instrument Panel Storage Area on Operation on page 2-28 and Automatic Transaxle
page 2-43. Operation on page 2-26.
G. Fog Lamps Button (If Equipped). See Fog Lamps Q. Accessory Power Outlet (If Equipped). Cigarette
on page 3-16. Lighter (If Equipped). See Accessory Power Outlet(s)
H. Hood Release. See Hood Release on page 5-11. on page 3-18 and Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter
on page 3-18.
I. Driver Information Center (DIC) Steering Wheel
Controls. See Driver Information Center (DIC) on R. Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator. See Passenger
page 3-40. Airbag Status Indicator on page 3-29.
J. Horn. See Horn on page 3-6. S. Hazard Warning Flashers Button. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 3-6.
T. Glove Box. See Glove Box on page 2-43.
3-5
Hazard Warning Flashers Tilt Wheel
Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel
also let police know you have a problem. Your front before you drive. You can raise it to the highest level to
and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. give your legs more room when you exit and enter
The hazard warning the vehicle.
flasher button is located in The lever that allows you to tilt the steering wheel is
the center of the located on the left side of the steering column.
instrument panel.
3-7
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer Windshield Wipers
To change the headlamps from low beam to high
beam, push the turn signal lever away from you.
To change the headlamps from high beam to low beam, Use this lever, located on the right side of the steering
pull the turn signal lever toward you. wheel, to operate the windshield wipers.
Flash-to-Pass 9(Off): Move the lever to this position to turn off the
windshield wipers.
This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to
signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. & (Intermittent; Speed Sensitive Wipers): Move the
To use it, pull the turn signal/multifunction lever toward lever to this position for intermittent or speed sensitive
you until the high-beam headlamps come on, then operation. When you select this position, the delay
release the lever to turn them off. will vary depending on the vehicles speed, as well as
the manually selected delay.
3-8
x (Delay): When the lever is in the intermittent Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor.
position, turn the intermittent adjust band with this A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools.
symbol on it up or down to set for a shorter or longer Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload. If the
delay between wipes. To the left of the adjust band are motor gets stuck, turn the wipers off, clear away
bars, increasing in size from bottom to top, that the snow or ice, and then turn the wipers back on.
indicate the frequency of the wipes. Smaller bars mean As an added safety feature, if the wipers are on for more
the wipers movement is less frequent. Larger bars than 15 seconds, the vehicle’s headlamps will turn on
mean the movement is more frequent. automatically. They will turn off 15 seconds after
the wipers are turned off.
6 (Low Speed): Move the lever up to the first
setting past intermittent, for steady wiping at low speed.
Windshield Washer
1 (High Speed): Move the lever up to the second
To wash your windshield, press the button at the end of
setting past intermittent, for wiping at high speed. the lever until the washers begin.
8 (Mist): Move the lever all the way down to this
position for a single wiping cycle. Hold it there until the
windshield wipers start; then let go. The windshield {CAUTION:
wipers will stop after one wiping cycle. If you want
additional wiping cycles, hold the lever down longer. In freezing weather, do not use your washer
Damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the
enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear washer fluid can form ice on the windshield,
ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. blocking your vision.
If the wiper blades are frozen to the windshield, carefully
loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become When you release the button, the washers will stop, but
damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. the wipers will continue to wipe for about three times
or will resume the speed you were using before.
3-9
Rear Window Wiper/Washer (Delay): Press this side of the button to turn on the
intermittent wiping setting that has a longer delay.
The rear window Y (Washer Fluid): Press this button to wash and wipe
washer/wiper button is
the window.
located on the instrument
panel below the climate The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as
controls. the windshield washer. However, the rear window
washer will run out of fluid before the windshield washer.
If you can wash your windshield but not your rear
windows, check the fluid level.
3-10
Cruise Control Setting Cruise Control
With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about
25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot
on the accelerator. This can really help on long
{CAUTION:
trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below
25 mph (40 km/h). 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.
{CAUTION: You could be startled and even lose control.
Keep the cruise control switch off until you
Cruise control can be dangerous where you want to use cruise control.
cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do
not use your cruise control on winding roads
or in heavy traffic. The cruise control
buttons are located on
Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery the steering wheel.
roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire
traction can cause needless wheel spinning,
and you could lose control. Do not use cruise
control on slippery roads.
3-11
RES+ (Resume): Press this button to resume a set Resuming a Set Speed
speed and to accelerate the speed.
Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed
SET− (Set): Press this button to set a speed and to and then you apply the brake. This, of course,
decrease the speed. disengages the cruise control. To return to your
previously set speed, you do not need to go through
To set a speed do the following:
the set process again. Once you’re going about
1. Press the on/off button to turn cruise control on. 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can press the RES+
The indicator light on the button will come on. part of the button briefly.
2. Get to the speed you want. This will take you back up to your previously chosen
speed and stay there.
3. Press the SET− control button and release it.
The CRUISE ENGAGED message will appear on Increasing Speed While Using Cruise
the Driver Information Center (DIC) to show the Control
system is engaged.
There are two ways to go to a higher speed.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
1. Disengage the cruise control by applying the brake
When you apply the brakes or clutch, the cruise control pedal but do not turn it off. Accelerate to a higher
will shut off. speed and reset the cruise control.
If the vehicle is in cruise control and the Traction 2. If the cruise control system is already engaged,
Control System (TCS) begins to limit wheel spin, press the RES+ button. Hold it there until you get
the cruise control will automatically disengage. up to the speed you want, and then release
See Enhanced Traction System (ETS) on page 4-10. the button. To increase your speed in very small
When road conditions allow, the cruise control can amounts, press the RES+ button briefly and then
be used again. release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go
about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.
3-12
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Using Cruise Control on Hills
Control How well your cruise control will work on hills depends
If the cruise control system is already engaged, upon your speed, load and the steepness of the
hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to
• Push and hold the SET− button until you reach step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed.
the lower speed you want, then release it. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to
• To slow down in very small amounts, push the a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course,
SET− button briefly. Each time you do this, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control.
you’ll go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t
use cruise control on steep hills.
Passing Another Vehicle While Using
Cruise Control Ending Cruise Control
Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. To end cruise control, step lightly on the brake pedal or
When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will the clutch if your vehicle has a manual transmission.
slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier. Stepping on the brake pedal or clutch will only end
the current cruise control session. Press the cruise
control on/off button to turn the system completely off.
Erasing Speed Memory
When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your
cruise control set speed memory is erased.
3-13
Headlamps P (Off/On): This position is the momentary Off/On
switch for the Automatic Headlamp System. In Canada,
this only works when the vehicles with an automatic
transaxle are in PARK (P) and vehicles with a manual
transaxle have the parking brake set and the vehicle
is not moving.
When operating in AUTO, a momentary turn of the
switch to off/on will turn off the Automatic Headlamp
System. An AUTO LIGHTS OFF message will display on
the driver information center and a chime will sound.
Rotating the switch to off/on again will turn the Automatic
Headlamp System back on. An AUTO LIGHTS ON
message will display on the driver information center.
The lever on the left side of the steering column The Automatic Headlamp System is always turned on
operates the exterior lamps. at the beginning of an ignition cycle for vehicles
with manual transaxle.
The exterior lamp switch has the following four positions:
3-14
Headlamps on Reminder The DRL system will be off any time your vehicle is in
PARK (P). The DRL system on U.S. vehicles can
If you open the driver’s door with the ignition off and the also be turned off by using the off/on switch for
lamps on, you will hear a warning chime. one ignition cycle.
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) headlamp system when you need it.
3-15
If you start your vehicle in a dark garage, the automatic Push the button to turn the fog lamps on. An indicator
lamp system will come on immediately. Once you light on the cluster will come on when the fog lamps
leave the garage, it will take about 20 seconds for the are on. Push the button again to turn the fog lamps off.
automatic lamp system to change to DRL if it is The parking lamps will automatically turn on and off
light outside. During that delay, your instrument panel when the fog lamps are turned on and off.
cluster may not be as bright as usual. Make sure
your instrument panel brightness control is in the full The fog lamps will turn off while the high-beam
bright position. See Instrument Panel Brightness headlamps are turned on.
on page 3-16. Some localities have laws that require the headlamps to
To idle your vehicle with the system off, turn the ignition be on along with the fog lamps.
on and rotate the exterior light switch to the off/on
position. For Canadian vehicles, the transaxle must stay Instrument Panel Brightness
in PARK (P) for this function or the parking brake
must be set for vehicles with manual transaxles. The control for this feature
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular is located to the right of
headlamps when you need them. the steering wheel
and above the radio.
Fog Lamps
If your vehicle is equipped
with a fog lamp button, it is
located to the right of Slide the switch to the left or right to brighten or dim
the steering wheel the lights.
and above the radio.
3-16
Dome Lamp Mirror Reading Lamps
Your vehicle may have a dome lamp. Your vehicle may have reading lamps on the rearview
mirror. Push the button to turn the reading lamps on
9(Off): Move the lever to this position to turn the and off.
lamp off, even when a door is opened.
1 (Door): Move the lever to this position to turn the Rear Reading Lamps
lamp on whenever a door is opened. Push the lens to turn the reading lamps on and off.
The reading lamps will turn on when the door is open if
+ (On): Move the lever to this position to turn the the dome lamp is in the door position. The reading
dome lamp on. lamps will also turn on with the dome lamp switch in the
on position. The lamps will not turn on if the door is
Entry/Exit Lighting open and the dome lamp is in the off position.
3-17
Accessory Power Outlet(s) When adding electrical equipment, be sure to follow the
installation instructions included with the equipment.
Accessory power outlets can be used to connect
electrical equipment such as a cellular phone or CB Notice: Improper use of the power outlet can cause
radio. The outlet can accept electrical equipment rated damage not covered by your warranty. Do not
at a maximum of 15 amps. hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket
from the plug because the power outlets are
The accessory power outlet is located forward of the
designed for accessory power plugs only.
shift lever and below the climate controls. There is also
an accessory power outlet at the rear of the center
console that is rated at a maximum of 20 amps. Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter
To use the outlet, remove the cover. When not in use, Your vehicle may have an ashtray and cigarette lighter.
always cover the outlet with the protective cap. To use the lighter, located on the instrument panel
Notice: Leaving electrical equipment on for below the climate controls, push it in all the way and let
extended periods will drain the battery. Always turn go. When it is ready, it will pop back out by itself.
off electrical equipment when not in use and do
Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter in while it is
not plug in equipment that exceeds the maximum
heating will not allow the lighter to back away from
amperage rating.
the heating element when it is hot. Damage from
Certain electrical accessories may not be compatible overheating may occur to the lighter or heating
with the accessory power outlet and could result element, or a fuse could be blown. Do not hold a
in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a cigarette lighter in while it is heating.
problem, see your dealer for additional information
on the accessory power outlet. To clean the center console ashtray, remove the entire
ashtray and empty it.
Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to your
vehicle may damage it or keep other components Notice: If you put papers, pins, or other flammable
from working as they should. The repairs would not items in the ashtray, hot cigarettes or other
be covered by your warranty. Do not use equipment smoking materials could ignite them and possibly
exceeding maximum amperage rating. Check with damage your vehicle. Never put flammable items in
your dealer before adding electrical equipment. the ashtray.
3-18
Climate Controls Operation
To change the current mode, select one of the following:
Climate Control System H (Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument
With this system you can control the heating, cooling, panel outlets.
and ventilation for your vehicle.
) (Bi-Level): This mode directs approximately half of
If your vehicle has remote start and you want to warm the air to the instrument panel outlets, and then
up or cool down the interior before you get in, leave your directs the remaining air to the floor outlets. Cooler air is
climate control system on with the settings adjusted directed to the upper outlets and warmer air to the
where you want them. The next time the vehicle floor outlets.
is started with remote start, the climate control system
will come on and adjust the interior to the temperature 6 (Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the
settings.
floor outlets with some air directed to the windshield and
side windows.
The right knob can also be used to select defog or
defrost mode. Information on defogging and defrosting
can be found later in this section.
Recirculation mode is not allowed in this mode.
3-19
9 (Off): To turn the fan off, turn the knob all the way On hot days, open the windows to let hot inside air
counterclockwise to the off position. escape; then close them. This helps to reduce the time
it takes for your vehicle to cool down. It also helps
Temperature Control: Turn the left knob clockwise or the system to operate more efficiently.
counterclockwise to increase or decrease the For quick cool down on hot days:
temperature inside your vehicle.
1. Select the vent mode.
@ (Recirculate): Press this button to prevent outside 2. Select the recirculation mode.
air and odors from entering your vehicle or to help heat or
cool the air inside your vehicle more quickly. An indicator 3. Select air conditioning.
light above the symbol will come on in this mode. The air 4. Select the coolest temperature.
conditioning compressor also comes on. This mode is not
5. Select the highest fan speed.
available for floor, defog and defrost modes. When the
recirculation button is pressed, the recirculation indicator Using these settings together for long periods of time
light will flash five times and outside air will be delivered. may cause the air inside of your vehicle to become
Operation in this mode during periods of high humidity too dry. To prevent this from happening, after the air in
and cool outside temperatures may result in increased your vehicle has cooled, turn off the recirculation by
window fogging. If window fogging is experienced, select pressing the outside air button.
the defrost mode. The air conditioning system removes moisture from the
air, so you may sometimes notice a small amount of
; (Outside Air): Press this button to allow outside
water dripping underneath your vehicle while idling
air to circulate through your vehicle. An indicator or after turning off the engine. This is normal.
light above the symbol will come on in this mode.
The air conditioning compressor cannot be turned on
# (Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn the when the fan is off.
air conditioning system on or off. When this button
is pressed, an indicator light below the symbol will come
on to let you know the air conditioning is activated.
3-20
Defogging and Defrosting Rear Window Defogger
Fog on the inside of windows is a result of high humidity The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to
(moisture) condensing on the cool window glass. This remove fog from the rear window.
can be minimized if the climate control system is used
properly. There are two modes to clear fog or frost from The rear window defogger will only work when the
your windshield and side windows. Use the defog mode ignition is in RUN.
to clear the windows of fog or moisture and warm the < (Rear): Press the button to turn the rear window
passengers. Use the defrost mode to remove fog or frost
defogger on or off. Be sure to clear as much snow from
from the windshield more quickly. For best results, clear
the rear window as possible. An indicator light below
all snow and ice from the windshield before defrosting.
the symbol will come on to let you know that the
Turn the right knob to select the defog or defrost mode. rear window defogger is activated.
- (Defog): This mode directs approximately half of The rear window defogger will turn off approximately
the air to the windshield and the side window outlets and 15 minutes after the button is pressed. If turned on
half to the floor outlets. When you select this mode again, the defogger will only run for approximately
the system runs the air conditioning compressor. seven minutes before turning off. If turned on again, the
To defog the windows faster, turn the temperature defogger will only run for approximately seven minutes
control knob clockwise to the warmest setting. before turning off. If vehicle speed is greater than 50 mph
(80 km/h) and the rear defogger is active, it will remain on
Recirculation mode is not available in defog mode. as long as the speed is greater than 50 mph (80 km/h).
0 (Defrost): This mode directs most of the air to the The defogger can also be turned off by pressing the
windshield, with some air directed to the side window button again or by turning off the engine.
outlets and the floor outlets. When you select this mode Notice: Do not use anything sharp on the inside of
the system runs the air conditioning compressor. the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage
To defrost the windows faster, turn the temperature the warming grid, and the repairs would not be
control knob clockwise to the warmest setting. covered by your warranty. Do not attach a temporary
Recirculation mode is not available in defog mode. vehicle license, tape, a decal or anything similar to
the defogger grid.
3-21
Outlet Adjustment The filter should be replaced as part of routine
scheduled maintenance. See Scheduled Maintenance
Rotate the outlets and move the outlet vanes to on page 6-4 for replacement intervals. See your
change the direction of the airflow and to open and dealer for details on changing the filter. To find out what
close the outlets. type of filter to use, see Normal Maintenance
Replacement Parts on page 6-13.
Operation Tips
To access the passenger compartment air filter you
• Clear away any ice, snow or leaves from the air must go through the glove box.
inlets at the base of the windshield that may
1. Open the glove box and remove all articles from
block the flow of air into your vehicle.
the inside.
• Use of non-GM approved hood deflectors may
adversely affect the performance of the system.
• Keep the path under the front seats clear of
objects to help circulate the air inside of your vehicle
more effectively.
3-22
3. Pull each of the three tabs of the filter access door 4. Pull the filter out, keeping it face up so as not to
down and open the access door downward. drop any dust into the passenger compartment
upon removal.
When installing a new air filter make sure the AIR
FLOW arrow is pointing downward. Reverse Steps 1
through 4 making sure the glove box door snaps
back into place.
3-23
Warning Lights, Gages, and Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem
with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages
Indicators and warning lights work together to let you know when
there’s a problem with your vehicle.
This part describes the warning lights and gages
that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on
locate them. as you are driving, or when one of the gages shows
there may be a problem, check the section that tells you
Warning lights and gages can signal that something is what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s
wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly — and even
an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to dangerous. So please get to know your warning
your warning lights and gages could also save you lights and gages. They’re a big help.
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 briefly 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.
3-24
Instrument Panel Cluster
Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You will know
how fast you are going, about how much fuel is left in the tank, and many other things you will need to drive safely
and economically.
3-25
Speedometer and Odometer Tachometer
Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both
The tachometer
miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). displays the engine
Your vehicle’s odometer works together with the speed in revolutions
driver information center. You can set a Trip A and per minute (rpm).
Trip B odometer. See “Trip Information” under DIC
Operation and Displays on page 3-41.
The odometer mileage can be checked without the
vehicle running. Simply open the driver’s door and the
mileage will be displayed briefly.
If your vehicle ever needs a new odometer installed, the
new one will be set to the correct mileage total of the
old odometer.
Notice: If you operate the engine with the
tachometer in the red warning area, your vehicle
could be damaged and the damages would not be
covered by your warranty. Do not operate the
engine with the tachometer in the red warning area.
3-26
Safety Belt Reminder Light Passenger Safety Belt
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will Reminder Light
come on for several seconds to remind people to
fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is Several seconds after the key is turned to RUN or
already buckled. START, a chime will sound for several seconds
to remind the front passenger to buckle their safety belt.
The safety belt light will This would only occur if the passenger airbag is
also come on and stay on enabled. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-64
for several seconds, for more information. The passenger safety belt light
then it will flash for will also come on and stay on for several seconds, then
several more. it will flash for several more.
3-27
Airbag Readiness Light
There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument {CAUTION:
panel, which shows the airbag symbol. The system
checks the airbag’s electrical system for malfunctions. If the airbag readiness light stays on after you
The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. start your vehicle, it means the airbag system
The system check includes the airbag sensor, the airbag may not be working properly. The airbags in
modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and
your vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or they
diagnostic module. For more information on the airbag
system, see Airbag System on page 1-56. could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid
injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle
This light will come on serviced right away if the airbag readiness light
when you start your stays on after you start your vehicle.
vehicle, and it will flash for
a few seconds. Then the
light should go out. This The airbag readiness light should flash for a few
means the system is ready. seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the
light does not come on then, have it fixed so it will
be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
3-28
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the passenger
airbag status indicator, it means that the right front
Your vehicle has the passenger sensing system. passenger’s frontal airbag is enabled (may inflate).
Your instrument panel has a passenger airbag
status indicator.
{CAUTION:
If the on indicator comes on when you have a
rear-facing child restraint installed in the right
front passenger’s seat, it means that the
passenger sensing system has not turned off
the passenger’s frontal airbag. A child in a
Passenger Passenger rear-facing child restraint can be seriously
Airbag Status Airbag Status injured or killed if the right front passenger’s
Indicator – United Indicator – Canada airbag inflates. This is because the back of the
States rear-facing child restraint would be very close
When the ignition key is turned to RUN or START, the to the inflating airbag. Do not use a rear-facing
passenger airbag status indicator will light ON and child restraint in the right front passenger’s
OFF, or the symbol for on and off, for several seconds seat if the airbag is turned on.
as a system check. If you use remote start to start
your vehicle from a distance (if equipped), you may not
see the 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.
3-29
If your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate a If your vehicle does not have a rear seat that will
rear-facing child restraint, a label on your sun visor accommodate a rear-facing child restraint, never put a
says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” child in a rear-facing child restraint in the right front
This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is passenger seat the unless passenger airbag status
so great, if the airbag deploys. indicator shows off. Never put a rear facing child
restraint in the right front passenger seat unless the
airbag is off. Here is why:
{CAUTION:
Even though the passenger sensing system is
{CAUTION:
designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal
airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child Even though the passenger sensing system is
restraint, no system is failsafe, and no one can designed to turn off the passenger’s frontal
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under airbag if the system detects a rear-facing child
some unusual circumstance, even though it is restraint, no system is fail-safe, and no one
turned off. We recommend that rear-facing can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy
child restraints be secured in the rear seat, under some unusual circumstance, even
even if the airbag is off. though it is turned off. General Motors
recommends that rear-facing child restraints
be transported in vehicles with a rear seat that
will accommodate a rear-facing child restraint,
whenever possible.
3-30
If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the airbag Charging System Light
status indicator, it means that the passenger sensing
system has turned off the right front passenger’s frontal
The charging system light
airbag. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-64
will come on briefly when
for more on this, including important safety information.
you turn on the ignition,
If, after several seconds, all status indicator lights and the engine is not
remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a running, as a check
problem with the lights or the passenger sensing to show you it is working.
system. See your dealer for service.
3-31
Up-Shift Light Brake System Warning Light
Your vehicle may have an up-shift light. When this light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into
comes on, you should shift to the next higher gear if two parts. If one part is not working, the other part can
weather, road, and traffic conditions allow you to. still work and stop you. For good braking, though,
you need both parts working well.
This light is located in your
instrument panel cluster to If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem.
the left of the tachometer. Have your brake system inspected right away.
3-32
When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light Anti-Lock Brake System
will also come on when you set your parking brake.
The light will stay on if your parking brake does Warning Light
not release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is
fully released, it means you have a brake problem. If your vehicle is equipped
with the anti-lock brake
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the system, the light will come
road and stop carefully. Make sure the parking brake is on when your engine is
fully released. You may notice that the pedal is harder started and may stay on
to push or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. for several seconds.
It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the That is normal.
vehicle towed for service. See Towing Your Vehicle
on page 4-37.
If the light stays on, turn the ignition to OFF. Or, if the
light comes on when you are driving, stop as soon
{CAUTION: as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start
the engine again to reset the system. If the light still
stays on after driving at a speed of at least 13 mph
Your brake system may not be working (20 km/h), or comes on again while you are driving,
properly if the brake system warning light is on. your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system
Driving with the brake system warning light on warning light is not on, you still have brakes, but
can lead to an accident. If the light is still on you do not have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake
after you have pulled off the road and stopped system warning light is also on, you do not have
carefully, have the vehicle towed for service. anti-lock brakes and there is a problem with your regular
brakes. See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-32.
The anti-lock brake system warning light will come
on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. This is
normal. If the light does not come on then, have it
fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
3-33
Enhanced Traction System Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light Warning Light
If your vehicle is equipped The engine coolant
with the Enhanced temperature warning light
Traction System (ETS), will come on when the
this warning light should engine has overheated.
come on briefly as
you start the engine.
If the warning light does not come on, then have it fixed If this happens you should pull over and turn off the
so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. engine as soon as possible. See Engine Overheating on
page 5-23 for more information.
If the warning light stays on, or comes on when you are
driving, there may be a problem with your Enhanced Notice: Driving with the engine coolant temperature
Traction System and your vehicle may need service. warning light on could cause your vehicle to
When this warning light is on, the system will not limit overheat. See Engine Overheating on page 5-23.
wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. Your vehicle could be damaged, and it might not be
See Enhanced Traction System (ETS) on page 4-10 for covered by your warranty. Never drive with the
more information. engine coolant temperature warning light on.
This light will also come on when starting your vehicle.
If it doesn’t, have your vehicle serviced.
3-34
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Your vehicle has an Check Engine Light
engine coolant temperature
gage. With the ignition Your vehicle is equipped
turned to ON, this with a computer which
gage shows the engine monitors operation of the
coolant temperature. fuel, ignition, and emission
control systems.
3-35
Notice: Modifications made to the engine, If the Light is Flashing
transaxle, exhaust, intake, or fuel system of your
vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with The following may prevent more serious damage to
other than those of the same Tire Performance your vehicle:
Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission • Reducing vehicle speed
controls and may cause this light to come on.
Modifications to these systems could lead to costly • Avoiding hard accelerations
repairs not covered by your warranty. This may • Avoiding steep uphill grades
also result in a failure to pass a required Emission
Inspection/Maintenance test. See Accessories • If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of
and Modifications on page 5-3. cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible
This light should come on, as a check to show you it is If the light stops flashing and remains on steady,
working, when the ignition is on and the engine is see “If the Light Is On Steady” following.
not running. If the light does not come on, have it If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so,
repaired. This light will also come on during a stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle.
malfunction in one of two ways: Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart
• Light Flashing — A misfire condition has been the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the
detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing,
and may damage the emission control system follow the previous steps, and see your dealer for
on your vehicle. Diagnosis and service may service as soon as possible.
be required.
• Light On Steady — An emission control system
malfunction has been detected on your vehicle.
Diagnosis and service may be required.
3-36
If the Light Is On Steady Have you recently changed brands of fuel?
You may be able to correct the emission system If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel.
malfunction by considering the following: See Gasoline Octane on page 5-5. Poor fuel quality will
cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed.
Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle? You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation
install the cap. See Filling the Tank on page 5-8. on acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. (These
The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.)
has been left off or improperly installed. A loose This will be detected by the system and cause the
or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the light to turn on.
atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly If you experience one or more of these conditions,
installed should turn the light off. change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least
Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water? one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off.
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition If none of the above steps have made the light turn off,
will usually be corrected when the electrical system your dealer can check the vehicle. Your dealer has
dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off. the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix
any mechanical or electrical problems that may
have developed.
3-37
Emissions Inspection and Oil Pressure Light
Maintenance Programs If you have a low engine
Some state/provincial and local governments have or oil pressure problem, this
may begin programs to inspect the emission control light will stay on after
equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this you start your engine, or
inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle come on when you
registration. are driving. This indicates
that your engine is not
Here are some things you need to know to help your
receiving enough oil.
vehicle pass an inspection:
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the check The engine could be low on oil, or could have some
engine light is on or not working properly. other oil problem. Have it fixed immediately.
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD The oil light could also come on in three other situations:
(on-board diagnostic) system determines that critical
emission control systems have not been completely • When the ignition is on but the engine is not
diagnosed by the system. The vehicle would be running, the light will come on as a test to show you
considered not ready for inspection. This can happen if it is working, but the light will go out when you
you have recently replaced your battery or if your turn the ignition to START. If it does not come on
battery has run down. The diagnostic system is with the ignition on, you may have a problem
designed to evaluate critical emission control systems with the fuse or bulb. Have it fixed right away.
during normal driving. This may take several days • If you are idling at a stop sign, the light may blink
of routine driving. If you have done this and your vehicle on and then off.
still does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD
system readiness, your GM dealer can prepare the • If you make a hard stop, the light may come on for
vehicle for inspection. a moment. This is normal.
3-38
Fog Lamp Light
{CAUTION: The fog lamps light will
come on when the fog
Do not keep driving if the oil pressure is low. lamps are in use.
If you do, your engine can become so hot that
it catches fire. You or others could be burned.
Check your oil as soon as possible and have
your vehicle serviced.
The light will go out when the fog lamps are turned off.
Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance may
See Fog Lamps on page 3-16 for more information.
damage the engine. The repairs would not be
covered by your warranty. Always follow the
maintenance schedule in this manual for changing Highbeam On Light
engine oil.
This light comes on
whenever the high-beam
Security Light headlamps are on.
For more information
on this light see
Theft-Deterrent Systems
on page 2-16.
3-39
Fuel Gage Driver Information Center (DIC)
Your fuel gage tells you Your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC).
about how much fuel you The DIC display gives you the status of many of your
have left. vehicle’s systems. The DIC is also used to display driver
personalization menu modes and warning/status
messages. All messages will appear in the DIC display,
located at the bottom of the instrument panel cluster.
The DIC buttons are
located on the left side of
the steering wheel.
3-40
DIC Operation and Displays TRIP A or TRIP B
The DIC comes on when the ignition is on. The DIC has Press the information button until TRIP A or TRIP B is
different modes which can be accessed by pressing displayed. These modes show the current distance
the DIC buttons. The button functions are detailed in traveled since the last reset for each trip odometer in
the following. either miles (mi) or kilometers (km). Both odometers can
be used at the same time.
Information Modes Each trip odometer can be reset to zero separately by
pressing and holding the reset button for a few seconds
q (Information): Press this button to scroll through while the desired trip odometer is displayed.
the following vehicle information modes:
FUEL RANGE
Outside Air Temperature and Odometer
Press the information button until FUEL RANGE is
Press the information button until the outside air displayed. This mode shows the remaining distance
temperature and the odometer are displayed. This mode you can drive without refueling in either miles (mi)
shows the temperature outside of the vehicle in either or kilometers (km). It is based on fuel economy and the
degrees Fahrenheit (°F) or degrees Celsius (°C) and the fuel remaining in the tank.
total distance the vehicle has been driven in either
The fuel economy data used to determine fuel range is
miles (mi) or kilometers (km). The outside air
an average of recent driving conditions. As your
temperature will appear on the left side of the DIC
driving conditions change, this data is gradually updated.
display and the odometer will appear on the right side of
The FUEL RANGE mode cannot be reset.
the display.
To change the DIC display to English or metric units,
see “UNITS” under DIC Vehicle Personalization on
page 3-45.
3-41
ECON (Economy) In addition to the engine oil life system monitoring the
oil life, additional maintenance is recommended in
Press the information button until ECON is displayed. the Maintenance Schedule in this manual. See Engine
This mode shows how many miles per gallon (mpg) Oil on page 5-13 and Scheduled Maintenance on
or liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km) your vehicle is page 6-4.
getting based on current and past driving conditions.
Always reset the engine oil life system after an oil
Press and hold the reset button while ECON is displayed change. See “How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System”
to reset the average fuel economy. Average fuel under Engine Oil Life System on page 5-16.
economy will then be calculated starting from that point.
If the average fuel economy is not reset, it will be COOLANT
continually updated each time you drive.
Press the information button until COOLANT is displayed.
AV (Average) SPEED This mode shows the temperature of the engine coolant
in either degrees Fahrenheit (°F) or degrees Celsius (°C).
Press the information button until AV SPEED is
displayed. This mode shows the vehicle’s average
speed in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per DIC Warnings and Messages
hour (km/h).
These warning messages will appear in the DIC display
Press and hold the reset button while AV SPEED is if there is a problem detected in one of your vehicle’s
displayed to reset the average vehicle speed. systems. With most messages, a warning chime
will sound when the message is displayed.
OIL LIFE
The messages will clear from the display when the
Press the information button until OIL LIFE is displayed. condition no longer exists. You can also acknowledge
The engine oil life system shows an estimate of the and clear some messages from the display by pressing
oil’s remaining useful life. It will show 100% when the and holding either the reset or information buttons.
system is reset after an oil change. It will alert you The message will come back on the next time the
to change your oil on a schedule consistent with your vehicle is turned off and back on if the condition still
driving conditions. exists. Your vehicle may have other warning messages.
3-42
AUTO (Automatic) LIGHTS OFF CHECK GAS CAP
This message will display if the automatic headlamp This message will display if the gas cap has not been
system is disabled with the headlamp switch. fully tightened. You should recheck your gas cap to make
See Automatic Headlamp System on page 3-15 for sure that it is on properly. A few driving trips with the cap
more information. properly installed should turn the message off.
AUTO (Automatic) LIGHTS ON CRUISE ENGAGED
This message will display if the automatic headlamp This message will display when the cruise control
system is enabled with the headlamp switch. See system is active. See Cruise Control on page 3-11 for
Automatic Headlamp System on page 3-15 for more more information.
information.
DOOR AJAR
BRAKE FLUID This message will display if one or more of the vehicle’s
This message will display to inform the driver that the doors are not closed properly. When this message
brake fluid level is low while the ignition is on. Have the appears, you should make sure that the door(s)
brake system serviced by your GM dealer as soon are closed completely.
as possible.
ENGINE DISABLED
CHANGE OIL SOON This message will display if the starting of the engine is
This message will display when the life of the engine oil disabled. Have your vehicle serviced immediately by
has expired and it should be changed. your GM dealer.
When you acknowledge the CHANGE OIL SOON ENG (Engine) PWR (Power) REDUCED
message by clearing it from the display, you still must
reset the engine oil life system separately. See This message will display to inform you that the vehicle
Engine Oil Life System on page 5-16 and Scheduled has reduced engine power to avoid damaging the engine.
Maintenance on page 6-4 for more information.
3-43
GATE AJAR LOW TRACTION
This message will display when the liftgate of your This message will display when the Enhanced Traction
vehicle is not closed completely. You should make sure System (ETS) is actively limiting wheel spin. Slippery
that the liftgate is closed completely. See Liftgate on road conditions may exist if this message is displayed, so
page 2-13 for more information. adjust your driving accordingly. See Enhanced Traction
System (ETS) on page 4-10 for more information.
ICE POSSIBLE
This message will display when the outside air
PARKING BRAKE
temperature is cold enough to create icy road conditions. This message will display if the parking brake is left
Adjust your driving accordingly. engaged. See Parking Brake on page 2-30 for
more information.
KEY FOB BATT (Battery) LOW
This message will display if the remote keyless entry
POWER STEERING
transmitter battery is low. You should replace the battery This message will display if a problem has been
in the transmitter. See “Battery Replacement” under detected with the electric power steering. Have your
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on page 2-6. vehicle serviced immediately by your GM dealer.
LOW FUEL SERVICE AIR BAG
This message will display when your vehicle is low on This message will display when there is a problem with
fuel. You should refill the fuel tank as soon as possible. the airbag system. Have your vehicle serviced
See Fuel Gage on page 3-40, Filling the Tank on immediately by your GM dealer.
page 5-8, and Fuel on page 5-5 for more information.
TRAILER SHIFT ON
On some models, if towing a trailer, this message will
display when the vehicle is changing shifting patterns so
that the engine oil does not heat up above the proper
engine operating temperature.
3-44
DIC Vehicle Personalization Personalization Menu Modes
Your vehicle has personalization capabilities that allow UNITS
you to program certain features to a preferred setting.
This feature allows you to select the units of
All of the features listed may not be available on
measurement in which the DIC will display the vehicle
your vehicle. Only the features available will be
information. When UNITS appears on the display, press
displayed on your DIC.
the reset button to scroll through the available settings:
The default settings for the features were set when your
vehicle left the factory, but may have been changed ENGLISH (default in United States): All information
from their default state since that time. will be displayed in English units. For example, distance
will be shown in miles (mi) and fuel economy in miles
To change feature settings, use the following procedure: per gallon (mpg).
Entering Personalization Menu METRIC (default in Canada): All information will be
1. Turn the ignition on while the vehicle is stopped. displayed in metric units. For example, distance will be
shown in kilometers (km) and fuel economy in liters
2. Press and hold the information and reset buttons at per 100 kilometers (L/100 km).
the same time for several seconds, then release to
enter the personalization menu. Choose one of the available settings and press the
information button to select it and move on to the
If the vehicle speed is greater than 2 mph (3 km/h), next feature.
only the UNITS menu will be accessible.
3. Press the information button to scroll through the OIL-LIFE RESET
available personalization menu modes. When this feature is displayed, you can reset the engine
Press the reset button to scroll through the available oil life system. To reset the system, see Engine Oil
settings for each mode. Life System on page 5-16. See “OIL LIFE” under
If you do not make a selection within ten seconds, DIC Operation and Displays on page 3-41 for more
the display will go back to the previous information information.
displayed.
3-45
REMOTE START ON: The horn will chirp on the first press of the lock
button on the remote keyless entry transmitter.
If your vehicle has remote start, this feature allows
remote start to be turned OFF or ON. Remote start See Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on
allows you to start the engine from outside of the vehicle page 2-6 for more information.
using your remote keyless entry transmitter. See Choose one of the available settings and press the
“Remote Vehicle Start” under Remote Keyless Entry information button to select it and move on to the
System Operation on page 2-6 for more information. next feature.
OFF: The remote start feature will be disabled. UNLOCK HORN
ON (default): The remote start feature will be enabled. If your vehicle has remote keyless entry, this feature,
Choose one of the available settings and press the which allows the vehicle’s horn to chirp on the first press
information button to select it and move on to the of the unlock button on the remote keyless entry
next feature. transmitter, can be enabled or disabled. When UNLOCK
HORN appears on the display, press the reset button
LOCK HORN to scroll through the available settings:
If your vehicle has remote keyless entry, this feature, OFF (default): The horn will not chirp when the
which allows the vehicle’s horn to chirp every time unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter
the lock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed.
is pressed, can be enabled or disabled. When LOCK
HORN appears on the display, press the reset button to ON: The horn will chirp on the first press of the unlock
scroll through the available settings: button on the remote keyless entry transmitter.
OFF (default): The horn will not chirp on the first press See Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on
page 2-6 for more information.
of the remote keyless entry transmitter lock button.
The horn will still chirp on the second press. Choose one of the available settings and press the
information button to select it and move on to the
next feature.
3-46
LIGHT FLASH DELAY LOCK
If your vehicle has remote keyless entry, this feature, This feature, which delays the actual locking of the
which allows the vehicle’s exterior hazard/turn signal vehicle, can be enabled or disabled. When DELAY
lighting to flash every time the lock or unlock button on LOCK appears on the display, press the reset button to
the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed, can scroll through the available settings:
be enabled or disabled. When LIGHT FLASH appears
on the display, press the reset button to scroll ON (default): The doors will not lock until five seconds
through the available settings: after the last door is closed. You can temporarily
override delayed locking by pressing the power lock
OFF: The exterior hazard/turn signal lighting will not switch or the lock button on the remote keyless
flash when the lock or unlock button on the remote entry transmitter a second time.
keyless entry transmitter is pressed.
OFF: The doors will lock immediately when pressing
ON (default): The exterior hazard/turn signal lighting the power lock switch or the lock button on the remote
will flash when the lock or unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter.
keyless entry transmitter is pressed. See Power Door Locks on page 2-10, Delayed Locking
See Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on on page 2-11, and Remote Keyless Entry System
page 2-6 for more information. Operation on page 2-6 for more information.
Choose one of the available settings and press the Choose one of the available settings and press the
information button to select it and move on to the information button to select it and move on to the
next feature. next feature.
3-47
AUTO UNLK (Unlock) UNLK (Unlock) (Automatic Transaxle Only)
This feature, which allows the vehicle to automatically This screen displays only if your vehicle has an
unlock certain doors, can be enabled or disabled. automatic transaxle and DRIVER or ALL is selected for
When AUTO UNLK appears on the display, press the the AUTO UNLK feature. This feature determines when
reset button to scroll through the available settings: the automatic door unlocking will occur. When UNLK
appears on the display, press the reset button to scroll
ALL (default): All of the doors will automatically unlock. through the available settings:
DRIVER: The driver’s door will automatically unlock. KEY OFF: The door(s) will unlock when the key is
NONE: None of the doors will automatically unlock. turned off.
You will need to manually unlock the doors. SHIFT TO P (Park) (default): The door(s) will unlock
If you have a manual transaxle vehicle, the door(s) will when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P).
automatically unlock when the key is turned off. See Programmable Automatic Door Unlock on
page 2-11 for more information.
If you have an automatic transaxle vehicle, you can
select when the automatic unlocking will occur. Choose one of the available settings and press the
See “UNLK (Unlock) (Automatic Transaxle Only)” information button to select it and move on to the
following. next feature.
See Programmable Automatic Door Unlock on
page 2-11 for more information.
Choose one of the available settings and press the
information button to select it and move on to the
next feature.
3-48
EXT (Exterior) LIGHTS LANGUAGE
If your vehicle has remote keyless entry, this feature, This feature allows you to select the language in which
which allows the vehicle’s exterior perimeter lighting to the DIC will display. When LANGUAGE appears on
turn on each time the unlock button on the remote the display, press the reset button to scroll through the
keyless entry transmitter is pressed, can be enabled or available settings:
disabled. When EXT LIGHTS appears on the display,
press the reset button to scroll through the available ENGLISH (default): The DIC will display all information
settings: in English.
OFF: The exterior perimeter lighting will not turn on FRENCH: The DIC will display all information
when the unlock button on the remote keyless in French.
entry transmitter is pressed. SPANISH: The DIC will display all information
ON (default): The exterior perimeter lighting will turn on in Spanish.
when the unlock button on the remote keyless entry GERMAN: The DIC will display all information in
transmitter is pressed. German.
See Remote Keyless Entry System Operation on Choose one of the available settings and press the
page 2-6 for more information. information button to select it and exit out of the
Choose one of the available settings and press the personalization menu mode.
information button to select it and move on to the
next feature. Exiting Personalization Menu
The personalization menu will be exited when any of the
following conditions occur:
• A ten second time period has elapsed.
• The ignition is turned off.
• The end of the personalization menu list is reached.
3-49
Audio System(s) Keeping your mind on the drive is important for safe
driving. For more information, see Defensive Driving
Driving without distraction is a necessity for a safer on page 4-2. Get familiar with your vehicle’s audio
driving experience. See Defensive Driving on page 4-2. system so you can use it with less effort and take full
By taking a few moments to read this manual and advantage of its features.
get familiar with your vehicle’s audio system, you can Here are some ways in which you can help avoid
use it with less effort, as well as take advantage of distraction while driving.
its features. While your vehicle is parked, set up your
audio system by presetting your favorite radio stations, While your vehicle is parked:
setting the tone and adjusting the speakers. Then, • Familiarize yourself with all of its controls.
when driving conditions permit, you can tune to your
favorite stations using the presets and steering • Familiarize yourself with its operation.
wheel controls (if equipped). • Set up your audio system by presetting your
favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and
adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving
{CAUTION: conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite
radio stations using the presets and steering wheel
controls (if equipped).
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.
3-50
Notice: Before adding any sound equipment to Setting the Time
your vehicle, such as an audio system, CD player,
CB radio, mobile telephone, or two-way radio, make (Without Date Display)
sure that it can be added by checking with your
dealer. Also, check federal rules covering mobile If your vehicle has a base AM/FM radio with a single
radio and telephone units. If sound equipment can CD player and preset buttons numbered one through
be added, it is very important to do it properly. six, the radio will have a clock button for setting the time.
Added sound equipment may interfere with You can set the time by following these steps:
the operation of your vehicle’s engine, radio, or 1. Press the clock button until the hour numbers begin
other systems, and even damage them. Your flashing on the display. Press the clock button a
vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation second time and the minute numbers will begin
of sound equipment that has been added. flashing on the display.
Notice: The chime signals related to seat belts, 2. While either the hour or the minute numbers are
parking brake, and other functions of your vehicle flashing, rotate the tune knob clockwise to increase
operate through the GM radio/entertainment system. or counterclockwise to decrease the time. Instead
If that equipment is replaced or additional equipment of using the tune knob, you can also press the
is added to your vehicle, the chimes may not work. SEEK, FWD, or REV buttons to adjust the time.
Make sure that replacement or additional equipment 3. Press the clock button again until, the clock
is compatible with your vehicle before installing it. display stops flashing to set the currently displayed
See Accessories and Modifications on page 5-3. time; otherwise, the flashing will stop after
Figure out which audio system is in your vehicle, find five seconds and the current time displayed will be
out what your audio system can do, and how to operate automatically set.
all of its controls.
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 2-23 for more
information.
3-51
Setting the Time (With Date Display) Radio with CD (Base)
If your vehicle has a radio with a single CD player, the
radio will have a clock button for setting the time and
date. Press the clock button and the HR, MIN, MM, DD,
YYYY will appear on the display. Press the pushbutton
located under any one of the labels that you want to
change. Everytime the pushbutton is pressed again, the
time or the date if selected, will increase by one. Another
way to increase the time or date, is to press the right
SEEK arrow or FWD button. To decrease, press the left
SEEK arrow or REV button. You can also rotate the tune
knob to adjust the selected setting.
If your vehicle has a radio with a six-disc CD player, the
radio will have a MENU button instead of the clock button
to set the time and date. Press the MENU button. Once
the clock option is displayed, press the pushbutton
located under that label. The HR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY
will appear on the display. To change the time or date,
Playing the Radio
follow the instructions given earlier in this section.
O (Power/Volume): Press this knob to turn the
To change the time default setting from 12 hour to system on and off.
24 hour or to change the date default setting from
month/day/year to day/month/year, press the clock Turn this knob clockwise to increase or counterclockwise
button and then the pushbutton located under the to decrease the volume.
forward arrow label. Once the time 12H and 24H, and
The radio remembers the previous volume setting
the date MM/DD/YYYY and DD/MM/YYYY are
whenever the radio is turned on. You can still manually
displayed, press the pushbutton located under the
adjust the volume by using the volume knob.
desired option. Press the clock or MENU button again
to apply the selected default, or let the screen time out.
3-52
Finding a Station 3. Tune in the desired station.
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2 pushbuttons for three seconds until you hear a
or AM. The display will show the selection. beep. Whenever that pushbutton is pressed
and released, the station that was set will return.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select radio stations.
5. Repeat the Steps 2-4 for each pushbutton.
© SEEK ¨: Press the right or left SEEK arrow to go
to the next or to the previous station and stay there.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for BASS/TREB (Bass/Treble): To adjust the bass or
a few seconds until you hear a beep. The radio will go to treble, press the tune knob or bass/treble button until the
a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next desired tone control label appears on the display.
station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning. Turn the tune knob clockwise to increase or
counterclockwise to decrease the setting. You can also
The radio will only seek and scan stations with a strong adjust the setting by pressing either the SEEK, FWD,
signal that are in the selected band. or REV buttons. The display will show the current bass
or treble level. If a station’s frequency is weak, or if
4 (Information): Press this button to switch the display there is static, decrease the treble.
between the radio station frequency and the time. When
the ignition is off, press this knob to display the time. EQ (Equalization): Press this button to select preset
equalization settings.
Setting Preset Stations
To return to the manual mode, press the EQ button until
Up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM), can Manual appears on the display or start to manually
be programmed on the six numbered pushbuttons, adjust the bass or treble by pressing the tune knob.
by performing the following steps:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, or AM.
3-53
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) Playing a CD (Single CD Player)
` BAL/FADE (Balance/Fade): Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. The
To adjust the balance
player will pull it in and the CD should begin playing.
or fade, press this button or the tune knob until the
desired speaker control label appears on the display. If the ignition or radio is turned off with a CD in the
Turn the tune knob clockwise or counterclockwise to player, it will stay in the player. When the ignition or
adjust the setting. You can also adjust the setting by radio is turned on, the CD will start playing where
pressing either the SEEK, FWD, or REV buttons. it stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol will appear on
Radio Messages the radio display. As each new track starts to play,
the track number will appear on the display.
Calibration Error: The audio system has been
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm)
calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If Calibration
single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the
Error appears on the display, it means that the radio
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.
has not been configured properly for your vehicle and it
must be returned to your dealer for service. If playing a CD-R, the sound quality may be reduced
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality
Locked: This message is displayed when the of the music that has been recorded, and the way the
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up the radio. CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase
Take the vehicle to your dealer for service. in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is
corrected, contact your dealer. 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” later in this section.
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 soft marker instead.
3-54
Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert more \ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this
than one CD into the slot at a time, or attempt pushbutton to advance playback quickly within a track.
to play scratched or damaged CDs, you could You will hear sound at a reduced volume. Release
damage the CD player. When using the CD player, this pushbutton to resume playing the track. The elapsed
use only CDs in good condition without any time of the track will appear on the display.
label, load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player
and the loading slot free of foreign materials, RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to CD
liquids, and debris. tracks in random, rather than sequential order. To use
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages” random, do the following:
later in this section. 1. Press this button to play tracks from the CD you
are listening to in random order. The random icon
Z EJECT: Press the CD eject button to eject the
will appear on the display.
CD. If the CD is not removed, after several seconds, the
CD will be automatically pulled back into the player. 2. Press this button again to turn off random play.
The random icon will disappear from the display.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select tracks on the
CD currently playing. 4 (Information): Press this button to switch the display
between the track number, elapsed time of the track,
© SEEK ¨: Press the left SEEK arrow to go to the and the time. When the ignition is off, press this button
start of the current track, if more than ten seconds have to display the time.
played. Press the right SEEK arrow to go to the next
track. If either SEEK arrow is held or pressed multiple BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a
times, the player will continue moving backward or CD is playing. The CD will remain safely inside the radio
forward through the CD. for future listening.
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button to CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD
reverse playback quickly within a track. You will when listening to the radio. The CD icon and track
hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this number will appear on the display when a CD is in the
pushbutton to resume playing the track. The elapsed player. Press this button again and the system will
time of the track will appear on the display. automatically search for an auxiliary input device such
as a portable audio player.
3-55
CD Messages Listening to a Portable Audio Player
CHECK DISC: If this message appears on the display To listen to a portable audio player such as an
and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the MP3 player or cassette player over the radio and
following reasons: speakers, use a cable to connect your portable audio
player to the auxiliary input located on the lower
• It is very hot. When the temperature returns to right side of the radio faceplate.
normal, the CD should play.
When a device is connected, the radio automatically
• You are driving on a very rough road. When the begins playing audio from the device over the car
road becomes smoother, the CD should play. speakers.
• The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.
O (Power/Volume): Turn this knob clockwise to
• The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and increase or counterclockwise to decrease the volume of
try again. the portable player. You may need to do additional
• There may have been a problem while burning volume adjustments from the portable device if
the CD-R. the volume does not go loud or soft enough.
• The label may be caught in the CD player. BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a
portable audio device is playing. The portable audio
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason,
device will continue playing, so you may want to stop it
try a known good CD.
or power it off.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be
corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio displays CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD
an error message, write it down and provide it to your when a portable audio device is playing. Press this
dealer when reporting the problem. button again and the system will begin playing audio
from the connected portable audio player. If a portable
audio player is not connected, “no input device
found” will be displayed.
3-56
Radio with CD (MP3) While the radio is tuned to an FM-RDS station, the
station name or call letters will appear on the display.
In rare cases, a radio station may broadcast incorrect
information that will cause the radio features to
work improperly. If this happens, contact the radio
station.
3-57
Speed Compensated Volume (SCV): The radio is also Finding a Station
equipped with Speed Compensated Volume (SCV).
When SCV is on, the radio volume automatically adjusts BAND: Press this button to switch between AM, FM, or
to compensate for road and wind noise as you speed XM™ (if equipped). The display will show the selection.
up or slow down while driving. That way, the volume
level should sound about the same as you drive. f (Tune): Turn this knob to select radio stations.
To activate SCV:
© SEEK ¨: Press the right or left SEEK arrow to go
1. Set the radio volume to the desired level. to the next or to the previous station and stay there.
2. Press the MENU button to display the radio
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK arrow for
setup menu.
a few seconds until you hear a beep. The radio will go to
3. Press the pushbutton under the AUTO VOLUM a station, play for a few seconds, then go on to the next
label on the radio display. station. Press either SEEK arrow again to stop scanning.
4. Press the pushbutton under the desired Speed The radio will only seek and scan stations with a strong
Compensated Volume setting (OFF, Low, Med, signal that are in the selected band.
or High) to select the level of radio volume
compensation. The display will time out after 4 (Information) (XM™ Satellite Radio Service, MP3,
approximately 10 seconds. Each higher setting and RDS Features): Press the information button
allows for more radio volume compensation at to display additional text information related to the
faster vehicle speeds. current FM-RDS or XM™ station, or MP3 song. A choice
of additional information such as: Channel, Song,
Artist, and CAT may appear. Continue pressing the
information button to highlight the desired label, or press
the pushbutton positioned under any one of the labels
and the information about that label will be displayed.
When information is not available, No Info will appear on
the display.
3-58
Storing a Radio Station as a Favorite The number of favorites pages can be setup using the
MENU button. To setup the number of favorites
Drivers are encouraged to set up their radio station pages, perform the following steps:
favorites while the vehicle is parked. Tune to your
favorite stations using the presets, favorites button, and 1. Press the MENU button to display the radio
setup menu.
steering wheel controls (if equipped). See Defensive
Driving on page 4-2. 2. Press the pushbutton located below the
FAV 1-6 label.
FAV (Favorites): A maximum of 36 stations can be
programmed as favorites using the six pushbuttons 3. Select the desired number of favorites pages by
positioned below the radio station frequency labels and pressing the pushbutton located below the
by using the radio favorites page button (FAV button). displayed page numbers.
Press the FAV button to go through up to six pages 4. Press the FAV button, or let the menu time out, to
of favorites, each having six favorite stations available return to the original main radio screen showing the
per page. Each page of favorites can contain any radio station frequency labels and to begin the
combination of AM, FM, or XM™ (if equipped) stations. process of programming your favorites for the
To store a station as a favorite, perform the chosen amount of numbered pages.
following steps:
1. Tune to the desired radio station.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
2. Press the FAV button to display the page where BASS/MID/TREB (Bass, Midrange, or Treble):
you want the station stored. To adjust bass, midrange, or treble, press the tune knob
until the tone control labels appear on the display.
3. Press and hold one of the six pushbuttons until you Continue pressing to highlight the desired label, or press
hear a beep. Whenever that pushbutton is pressed the pushbutton positioned under the desired label.
and released, the station that was set will return. Turn the tune knob clockwise or counterclockwise to
4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton radio station adjust the highlighted setting. You can also adjust
you want stored as a favorite. the highlighted setting by pressing either the SEEK,
FWD or REV button until the desired levels are obtained.
If a station’s frequency is weak, or if there is static,
decrease the treble.
3-59
To quickly adjust bass, midrange, or treble to the middle To quickly adjust balance or fade to the middle
position, press the pushbutton positioned under the position, press the pushbutton positioned under the
BASS, MID, or TREB label for more than two seconds. BAL or FADE label for more than two seconds.
You will hear a beep and the level will be adjusted You will hear a beep and the level will be adjusted to
to the middle position. the middle position.
To quickly adjust all tone and speaker controls to the To quickly adjust all speaker and tone controls to the
middle position, press the tune knob for more than middle position, press the tune knob for more than
two seconds until you hear a beep. two seconds until you hear a beep.
EQ (Equalization): Press this button to select preset Finding a Category (CAT) Station
equalization settings.
CAT (Category): The CAT button is used to find XM™
To return to the manual mode, press the EQ button stations when the radio is in the XM™ mode. To find
until Manual appears on the display or start to manually XM™ channels within a desired category, perform
adjust the bass, midrange, or treble by pressing the the following:
tune knob.
1. Press the BAND button until the XM™ frequency is
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) displayed. Press the CAT button to display the
category labels on the radio display. Continue
BAL/FADE (Balance/Fade): To adjust balance or pressing the CAT button until the desired category
fade, press the tune knob until the speaker control labels name is displayed.
appear on the display. Continue pressing to highlight
2. Press either of the two buttons below the desired
the desired label, or press the pushbutton positioned
category label to immediately tune to the first
under the desired label. Turn the tune knob clockwise or
XM™ station associated with that category.
counterclockwise to adjust the highlighted setting.
You can also adjust the highlighted setting by pressing
either the SEEK, FWD, or REV button until the
desired levels are obtained.
3-60
3. Rotate the tune knob, press the buttons below the Removed categories can be restored by pressing the
right or left arrows displayed, or press the right or pushbutton under the Add label when a removed
left SEEK buttons to go to the next or previous category is displayed or by pressing the pushbutton
XM™ station within the selected category. under the Restore All label.
4. To exit the category search mode, press the The radio will not allow you to remove or add categories
FAV button or BAND button to display your while the vehicle is moving faster than five MPH
favorites again. (eight KmH).
Undesired XM™ categories can be removed through Radio Messages
the setup menu. To remove an undesired category,
perform the following: Calibration Error: The audio system has been
1. Press the MENU button to display the radio calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If Calibration
setup menu. Error appears on the display, it means that the radio
has not been configured properly for your vehicle and it
2. Press the pushbutton located below the XM CAT
must be returned to your dealer for service.
label.
3. Rotate the tune knob to display the category you Locked: This message is displayed when the
want removed. THEFTLOCK® system has locked up the radio.
Take the vehicle to your dealer for service.
4. Press the pushbutton located under the Remove
label until the category name along with the word If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be
Removed appears on the display. corrected, contact your dealer.
5. Repeat the steps to remove more categories.
3-61
XM™ Radio Messages
Radio Display
Condition Action Required
Message
XL (Explicit XL on the radio display, These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a
Language Channels) after the channel name, customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).
indicates content with
explicit language.
XM Updating Updating The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and
encryption code no action is required. This process should take no longer
than 30 seconds.
No XM Signal Loss of signal The system is functioning correctly, but the vehicle is in a
location that is blocking the XM™ signal. When you move
into an open area, the signal should return.
Loading XM Acquiring channel audio The audio system is acquiring and processing audio and
(after 4 second delay) text data. No action is needed. This message should
disappear shortly.
Channel Off Air Channel not in service This channel is not currently in service. Tune to
another channel.
Channel Unavail Channel no This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned.
longer available Tune to another station. If this station was one of the
presets, choose another station for that preset button.
No Artist Info Artist Name/Feature No artist information is available at this time on this channel.
not available The system is working properly.
No Title Info Song/Program Title No song title information is available at this time on this
not available channel. The system is working properly.
3-62
XM™ Radio Messages (cont’d)
Radio Display
Condition Action Required
Message
No CAT Info Category Name No category information is available at this time on this
not available channel. The system is working properly.
No Information No Text/Informational No text or informational messages are available at this time
message available on this channel. The system is working properly.
CAT Not Found No channel available for There are no channels available for the selected category.
the chosen category The system is working properly.
XM Theftlocked Theft lock active The XM™ receiver in the vehicle may have previously been
in another vehicle. For security purposes, XM™ receivers
cannot be swapped between vehicles. If this message
appears after having your vehicle serviced, check with
your dealer.
XM Radio ID Radio ID label If tuned to channel 0, this message will alternate with the
(channel 0) XM™ Radio eight digit radio ID label. This label is needed to
activate the service.
Unknown Radio ID not known If this message is received when tuned to channel 0,
(should only be if there may be a receiver fault. Consult with your dealer.
hardware failure)
Check XM Receivr Hardware failure If this message does not clear within a short period of time,
the receiver may have a fault. Consult with your dealer.
XM Not Available XM Not Available If this message does not clear within a short period of time,
the receiver may have a fault. Consult with your dealer.
3-63
Playing a CD (Single CD Player) If the ignition or radio is turned off, with a CD in the
player, it will stay in the player. When the ignition
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up. or radio is turned on, the CD will start playing where it
The player will pull it in and the CD should begin playing. stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
Playing a CD(s) (Six-Disc CD Player) When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol will appear on
the CD. As each new track starts to play, the track
LOAD ^: Press this button to load CDs into the number will appear on the display.
CD player. This CD player will hold up to six CDs. The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single
To insert one CD, do the following: CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and the
smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.
1. Press and release the load button.
If playing a CD-R, the sound quality may be reduced
2. Wait for the message to insert the disc. due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality
3. Load a CD. Insert the CD partway into the slot, of the music that has been recorded, and the way the
label side up. The player will pull the CD in. CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase
To insert multiple CDs, do the following: in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check
1. Press and hold the load button for two seconds. the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is
You will hear a beep and Load All Discs will damaged, such as cracked, broken, or scratched, the
be displayed. CD will not play properly. If the surface of the CD
2. Follow the displayed instruction on when to insert is soiled, see “Care of Your CDs” later in this section.
the discs. The CD player takes up to six CDs. If there is no apparent damage, try a known good CD.
3. Press the Load button again to cancel loading Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught in the
more CDs. CD player. If a CD is recorded on a personal computer
and a description label is needed, try labeling the top of
the recorded CD with a soft marker instead.
3-64
Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert more f (Tune): Turn this knob to select tracks on the CD
than one CD into the slot at a time, or attempt currently playing.
to play scratched or damaged CDs, you could
damage the CD player. When using the CD player, © SEEK ¨: Press the left SEEK arrow to go to the
use only CDs in good condition without any start of the current track, if more than ten seconds have
label, load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player played. Press the right SEEK arrow to go to the next
and the loading slot free of foreign materials, track. If either SEEK arrow is held, or pressed multiple
liquids, and debris. times, the player will continue moving backward or
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages” forward through the tracks on the CD.
later in this section.
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button to
Z EJECT: Press the CD eject button to eject CD(s). reverse playback quickly within a track. You will
To eject the CD that is currently playing, press and hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this
release this button. You will hear a beep and Ejecting pushbutton to resume playing the track. The elapsed
Disc will be displayed. Once the disc is ejected, Remove time of the track will appear on the display.
Disc will appear on display. The CD can be removed.
If the CD is not removed, after several seconds, the CD \ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this button
will be automatically pulled back into the player and to advance playback quickly within a track. You will
begin playing. hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this button to
resume playing the track. The elapsed time of the
For the Six-Disc CD player, press and hold the eject track will appear on the display.
button for two seconds to eject all discs.
3-65
RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to the CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD
tracks in random, rather than sequential order, on when listening to the radio. The CD icon and a message
one CD or all CDs in a six-disc CD player. To use showing disc and/or track number will appear on the
random, do one of the following: display when a CD is in the player. Press this button
• Press the CD/AUX button, or for a single CD again and the system will automatically search for an
auxiliary input device, such as a portable audio player.
player, insert a disc partway into the slot of the CD
If a portable audio player is not connected, “no input
player. A RDM label will appear on display.
device found” will be displayed.
To play the tracks from the single CD in random
order, press the pushbutton positioned under Using an MP3 CD-R
the RDM label until Random Current Disc is
displayed. Press the pushbutton again to turn off MP3 Format
random play. If you burn your own MP3 disc on a personal computer:
• Press the CD/AUX button, or for a six-disc CD • Make sure the MP3 files are recorded on a
player, press and hold the LOAD button. You will CD-R disc.
hear a beep and Load All Discs will be displayed.
Insert one or more discs partway into the slot of the • Make sure to finalize the disc when burning an MP3
CD player. disc, using multiple sessions. It is usually better to
burn the disc all at once.
To play tracks from all CDs loaded in a six-disc CD
player in random order, press the pushbutton • Files can be recorded with a variety of fixed or
positioned under the RDM label until Randomize All variable bit rates. Song title, artist name, and album
Discs is displayed. Press the same pushbutton will be available for display by the radio when
again to turn off random play. recorded using ID3 tags version 1 and 2.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when a • Do not mix standard audio and MP3 files on one disc.
CD is playing. The CD will remain safely inside the radio • Make sure playlists have a.pls, or.m3u, or.rmp
for future listening. extension, other file extensions may not work.
3-66
The CD player is able to read and play a maximum of Empty Directory or Folder
50 folders, 50 playlists, 10 sessions, and 255 files. Long
file names, folder names, or playlist names may use If a root directory or a folder exists somewhere in the
more disc memory space than necessary. To conserve file structure that contains only folders/subfolders and no
space on the disc, minimize the length of the file, compressed files directly beneath them, the player will
folder or playlist names. You can also play an MP3 advance to the next folder in the file structure that
CD-R that was recorded using no file folders. The contains compressed audio files and the empty folder
system can support up to 11 folders in depth, however, will not be displayed or numbered.
keep the total number of folders to a minimum in No Folder
order to reduce the complexity and confusion in trying to
locate a particular folder during playback. If a CD-R When the CD-R contains only compressed files, the
contains more than the maximum of 50 folders, files will be located under the root folder. The next and
50 playlists, 10 sessions, and 255 files, the player will previous folder functions will not be displayed on a
let you access and navigate up to the maximum, but all CD-R that was recorded without folders or playlists.
items over the maximum will be ignored. When displaying the name of the folder the radio
will display ROOT.
Root Directory
When the CD-R contains only playlists and compressed
The root directory of the CD-R is treated as a folder. audio files, but no folders, all files will be located
If the root directory has compressed audio files, under the root folder. The folder down and the folder up
the directory will be displayed as F1 ROOT. All files buttons will search playlists (Px) first and then go to
contained directly under the root directory will be the root folder. When the radio displays the name of the
accessed prior to any root directory folders. However, folder the radio will display ROOT.
playlists (Px) will always be accessed before root folders
or files.
3-67
Order of Play Preprogrammed Playlists
Tracks recorded to the CD-R will be played in the You can access preprogrammed playlists that were
following order: created using WinAmp™, MusicMatch™, or Real
• Play will begin from the first track in the first playlist Jukebox™ software, however, you will not have playlist
and will continue sequentially through all tracks in editing capability using the radio. These playlists will
each playlist. When the last track of the last playlist be treated as special folders containing compressed
has been played, play will continue from the first audio song files.
track of the first playlist.
Playing an MP3
• Play will begin from the first track in the first folder
and will continue sequentially through all tracks in Insert a CD-R partway into the slot (Single CD Player),
each folder. When the last track of the last or press the load button and wait for the message to
folder has been played, play will continue from the insert disc (Six-Disc CD Player), label side up. The
first track of the first folder. player will pull it in, and the CD-R should begin playing.
When play enters a new folder, the display will not If you turn off the ignition or radio with a CD-R in the
automatically show the new folder name unless player it will stay in the player. When you turn on
you have chosen the folder mode as the default display. the ignition or radio, the CD-R will start to play where it
The new track name will appear on the display. stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
File System and Naming As each new track starts to play, the track number and
song title will appear on the display.
The song name that will be displayed will be the song
name that is contained in the ID3 tag. If the song name The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm) single
is not present in the ID3 tag, then the radio will CD-Rs with an adapter ring. Full-size CD-Rs and the
display the file name without the extension (such as smaller CD-Rs are loaded in the same manner.
.mp3) as the track name.
Track names longer than 32 characters or four pages
will be shortened. The display will not show parts
of words on the last page of text and the extension of
the filename will not be displayed.
3-68
If playing a CD-R, the sound quality may be reduced Z EJECT: Press the CD eject button to eject
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality CD-R(s). To eject the CD-R that is currently playing,
of the music that has been recorded, and the way the press and release this button. You will hear a beep and
CD-R has been handled. There may be an increase Ejecting Disc will be displayed. Once the disc is
in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in ejected, Remove Disc will appear on display. The CD-R
loading and ejecting. If these problems occur, check can be removed. If the CD-R is not removed, after
the bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is several seconds, the CD-R will be automatically pulled
damaged, such as cracked, broken, or scratched, the back into the player and begin playing. For the
CD will not play properly. If the surface of the CD Six-Disc CD player, press and hold the eject button for
is soiled, see “Care of Your CDs” later in this section. two seconds to eject all discs.
If there is no apparent damage, try a known good CD.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select MP3 files on the
Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught in the CD-R currently playing.
CD player. If a CD is recorded on a personal computer
and a description label is needed, try labeling the top of © SEEK ¨: Press the left SEEK arrow to go to the
the recorded CD with a soft marker instead. start of the current MP3 file, if more than ten seconds
Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert more have played. Press the right SEEK arrow to go to
than one CD into the slot at a time, or attempt the next MP3 file. If either SEEK arrow is held or
to play scratched or damaged CDs, you could pressed multiple times, the player will continue moving
damage the CD player. When using the CD player, backward or forward through MP3 files on the CD.
use only CDs in good condition without any
label, load one CD at a time, and keep the CD player S c (Previous Folder): Press the pushbutton
and the loading slot free of foreign materials, positioned under the Folder label to go to the first track
liquids, and debris. in the previous folder.
If an error appears on the display, see “CD Messages” c T (Next Folder): Press the pushbutton positioned
later in this section. under the Folder label to go to the first track in the
next folder.
3-69
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button to h (Music Navigator): Use the music navigator
reverse playback quickly within an MP3 file. You will feature to play MP3 files on the CD-R in order by artist
hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this button to or album. Press the pushbutton located below the
resume playing the file. The elapsed time of the file music navigator label. The player will scan the disc to
will appear on the display. sort the files by artist and album ID3 tag information.
It may take several minutes to scan the disc depending
\ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this button on the number of MP3 files recorded to the CD-R.
to advance playback quickly within an MP3 file. The radio may begin playing while it is scanning the disc
You will hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this in the background. When the scan is finished, the
button to resume playing the file. The elapsed time CD-R will begin playing again.
of the file will appear on the display.
Once the disc has been scanned, the player will default
RDM (Random): With random, you can listen to MP3 to playing MP3 files in order by artist. The current
files on the CD-R in random, rather than sequential artist playing is shown on the second line of the display
order, on one CD-R or all discs in a six-disc CD player. between the arrows. Once all songs by that artist are
To use random, do one of the following: played, the player will move to the next artist in
alphabetic order on the CD-R and begin playing MP3
1. To play MP3 files from the CD-R you are listening
files by that artist. If you want to listen to MP3 files
to in random order, press the pushbutton positioned
by another artist, press the pushbutton located below
under the RDM label until Random Current Disc
either arrow button. You will go to the next or previous
is displayed. Press the same pushbutton again to
artist in alphabetic order. Continue pressing either
turn off random play.
button until the desired artist is displayed.
2. To play songs from all CDs loaded in a six-disc
CD player in random order, press the pushbutton
positioned under the RDM label until Randomize All
Discs is displayed. Press the same pushbutton
again to turn off random play.
3-70
To change from playback by artist to playback by CD Messages
album, press the pushbutton located below the Sort By
label. From the sort screen, push one of the buttons CHECK DISC: If this message appears on the display
below the album button. Press the pushbutton below the and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of the
back label to return to the main music navigator following reasons:
screen. Now the album name is displayed on the second
line between the arrows and songs from the current
• It is very hot. When the temperature returns to
album will begin to play. Once all songs from that album normal, the CD should play.
are played, the player will move to the next album in • You are driving on a very rough road. When the
alphabetic order on the CD-R and begin playing road becomes smoother, the CD should play.
MP3 files from that album.
• The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or upside down.
To exit music navigator mode, press the pushbutton • The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour and
below the Back label to return to normal MP3 playback.
try again.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio when • There may have been a problem while burning
a CD is playing. The CD will remain safely inside the CD.
the radio for future listening.
• The label may be caught in the CD player.
CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play a CD
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any other reason,
when listening to the radio. The CD icon and a message
try a known good CD.
showing disc and/or track number will appear on the
display when a CD is in the player. Press this button If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be
again and the system will automatically search for an corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio displays
auxiliary input device such as a portable audio player. If a an error message, write it down and provide it to your
portable audio player is not connected, “no input device dealer when reporting the problem.
found” will be displayed.
3-71
Listening to a Portable Audio Player Theft-Deterrent Feature
To listen to a portable audio player such as an THEFTLOCK® is designed to discourage theft of your
MP3 player or cassette player over the radio and vehicle’s radio. The feature works automatically by
speakers, use a cable to connect your portable audio learning a portion of the Vehicle Identification Number
player to the auxiliary input jack located on the (VIN). If the radio is moved to a different vehicle, it
radio faceplate. will not operate and LOCK or LOCKED will appear on
the display.
When a device is connected, the radio automatically
begins playing audio from the device over the car With THEFTLOCK® activated, the radio will not operate
speakers. if stolen.
3-72
When a CD is playing, press the up or the down arrow to AM
go to the next or previous track. Press and hold the up or
down arrow longer than three-quarters of a second to The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM,
continue advancing ahead or reversing back, to other especially at night. The longer range can cause station
tracks within the disc. frequencies to interfere with each other. For better radio
reception, most AM radio stations will boost the power
+ − (Volume): Press the plus or minus button to levels during the day, and then reduce these levels during
increase or to decrease the volume. the night. Static can also occur when things like storms
and power lines interfere with radio reception. When this
g (Mute/Voice Activation): Press this button to happens, try reducing the treble on your radio.
silence the system. Press this button again to turn the
sound on. If your vehicle is equipped with OnStar®, FM Stereo
press and hold this button for two seconds to activate
voice on the OnStar system. See the OnStar® System FM stereo will give the best sound, but FM signals
on page 2-41 in this manual for more information. 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.
Radio Reception
You may experience frequency interference and static
XM™ Satellite Radio Service
during normal radio reception if items such as cellphone XM™ Satellite Radio Service gives digital radio
chargers, vehicle convenience accessories, and reception from coast-to-coast in the 48 contiguous
external electronic devices are plugged into the United States, and in Canada (if available). Just as with
accessory power outlet. If there is interference or static, FM, tall buildings or hills can interfere with satellite
unplug the item from the accessory power outlet. radio signals, causing the sound to fade in and out.
In addition, traveling or standing under heavy foliage,
bridges, garages, or tunnels may cause loss of
XM signal for a period of time. The radio may display
NO XM SIGNAL to indicate interference.
3-73
Care of Your CDs Fixed Mast Antenna
Handle CDs carefully. Store them in their original cases This type of antenna is called a fixed mast antenna.
or other protective cases and away from direct It is mounted at the center of the roof, just behind the
sunlight and dust. The CD player scans the bottom windshield.
surface of the disc. If the surface of a CD is damaged, The mast antenna can withstand most car washes
such as cracked, broken, or scratched, the CD will
without being damaged. If the mast should ever become
not play properly or not at all. If the surface of a CD is
slightly bent, straighten it out by hand. If the mast is
soiled, take a soft, lint free cloth or dampen a clean, soft
badly bent, replace it.
cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution mixed with
water, and clean it. Make sure the wiping process starts Check occasionally to make sure the mast is still
from the center to the edge. tightened to the roof. If tightening is required, tighten
by hand.
Do not touch the bottom side of a CD while handling it;
this could damage the surface. Pick up CDs by If you are putting a protective cover over the vehicle,
grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and remove the mast by hand.
the outer edge.
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna
Care of the CD Player System
The use of CD lens cleaners for CD players is not
The XM™ Satellite Radio antenna is located on the roof
advised, due to the risk of contaminating the internal
of your vehicle. Keep this antenna clear of snow and
lens of the CD optics with lubricants.
ice build up for clear radio reception.
If your vehicle has a sunroof, the performance of the
XM™ system may be affected if the sunroof is open.
Loading items onto the roof of your vehicle can interfere
with the performance of the XM™ system. Make sure
the XM™ Satellite Radio antenna is not obstructed.
3-74
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ..........4-2 Freeway Driving ...........................................4-22
Defensive Driving ...........................................4-2 Before Leaving on a Long Trip .......................4-23
Drunken Driving .............................................4-3 Highway Hypnosis ........................................4-24
Control of a Vehicle ........................................4-6 Hill and Mountain Roads ................................4-24
Braking .........................................................4-6 Winter Driving ..............................................4-26
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) .........................4-7 If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud,
Braking in Emergencies ...................................4-9 Ice or Snow ..............................................4-30
Enhanced Traction System (ETS) ....................4-10 Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out .................4-31
Steering ......................................................4-11 Loading Your Vehicle ....................................4-32
Off-Road Recovery .......................................4-14 Towing ..........................................................4-37
Passing .......................................................4-14 Towing Your Vehicle .....................................4-37
Loss of Control .............................................4-16 Recreational Vehicle Towing ...........................4-37
Driving at Night ............................................4-17 Towing a Trailer (Manual Transaxle) ................4-39
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads ..................4-19 Towing a Trailer (Automatic Transaxle) ............4-39
City Driving ..................................................4-21
4-1
Control of a Vehicle Braking
You have three systems that make your vehicle go where See Brake System Warning Light on page 3-32.
you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering, and Braking action involves perception time and reaction time.
the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at
the places where the tires meet the road. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.
That is perception time. Then you have to bring up your
Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or ice, foot and do it. That is reaction time.
it is easy to ask more of those control systems than the
tires and road can provide. That means you can lose Average reaction time is about three-fourths of a
control of your vehicle. See Enhanced Traction second. But that is only an average. It might be less
System (ETS) on page 4-10. with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or
more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness,
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s coordination, and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol,
performance. See Accessories and Modifications drugs, and frustration. But even in three-fourths of a
on page 5-3. second, a vehicle moving at 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 your brakes; the weight of
the vehicle; and the amount of brake force applied.
4-6
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
spurts — heavy acceleration followed by heavy
braking — rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is Your vehicle may have anti-lock brakes. ABS is an
a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool advanced electronic braking system that will help
between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much prevent a braking skid.
faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace
with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, If your vehicle has anti-lock
you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. brakes, this warning light
That means better braking and longer brake life. on the instrument panel will
come on briefly when
If your engine ever stops while you are driving, brake
you start your vehicle.
normally but do not pump your brakes. If you do,
the pedal may get harder to push down. If your 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 When you start your engine, or when you begin to drive
the brake pedal will be harder to push. away, your anti-lock brake system will check itself.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s You may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while
performance. See Accessories and Modifications this test is going on, and you may even notice that
on page 5-3. your brake pedal moves or pulses a little. This is normal.
4-7
The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure
faster than any driver could. The computer is
programmed to make the most of available tire and road
conditions. This can help you steer around the obstacle
while braking hard.
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 As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates
will separately work the brakes at each wheel. on wheel speed and controls braking pressure
accordingly.
4-8
Remember: Anti-lock does not change the time you Your wheels can stop rolling. Once they do, the vehicle
need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always cannot respond to your steering. Momentum will
decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to carry it in whatever direction it was headed when the
the vehicle in front of you, you will not have time to apply wheels stopped rolling. That could be off the road, into
your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. the very thing you were trying to avoid, or into traffic.
Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even If you do not have anti-lock brakes, use a “squeeze”
though you have anti-lock brakes. braking technique. This will give you maximum braking
Using Anti-Lock while maintaining steering control. You can do this
by pushing on the brake pedal with steadily increasing
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal pressure.
down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel
a slight brake pedal pulsation or notice some noise, In an emergency, you will probably want to squeeze the
but this is normal. brakes hard without locking the wheels. If you hear or
feel the wheels sliding, ease off the brake pedal.
This will help you retain steering control. If you do have
Braking in Emergencies anti-lock brakes, it is different. See Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS) on page 4-7.
At some time, nearly every driver gets into a situation
that requires hard braking. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than
even the very best braking.
If you have anti-lock brakes, you can steer and brake at
the same time. However, if you do not have anti-lock
brakes, your first reaction — to hit the brake pedal hard
and hold it down — may be the wrong thing to do.
4-9
Enhanced Traction System (ETS) The Enhanced Traction System warning light may come
on for the following reasons:
Your vehicle may have an Enhanced Traction System
(ETS) that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in • If you turn the system off by moving the shift lever
slippery road conditions. The system operates only if to LOW (L), the warning light will come on and
it senses that one or both of the front wheels are stay on. To turn the system back on, move the
spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this shift lever back to a position other than LOW (L).
happens, the system reduces engine power and may The warning light should go off.
also upshift the transaxle to limit wheel spin. You may • The warning light will come on when you set your
feel or hear the system working, but this is normal. parking brake with the engine running, and it will
A LOW TRACTION message will appear on the Driver stay on if your parking brake does not release fully.
Information Center (DIC) when the traction control If the transaxle shift lever is in any position other
system is actively limiting wheel spin. Slippery road than LOW (L)and the warning light stays on
conditions may exist if this message is displayed, after your parking brake is fully released, it means
so adjust your driving accordingly. there is a problem with the system.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the Enhanced • If the traction control system is affected by an engine
Traction System begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise related problem, the system will turn off and the
control will automatically disengage. When road warning light will come on.
conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may If the warning light stays on, or comes on when you’re
re-engage the cruise control. See Cruise Control driving, there may be a problem with your Enhanced
on page 3-11. Traction System and your vehicle may need service.
When this warning light is on, the system will not
When the system is on, limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.
this warning light will
come on to let you know If the Enhanced Traction System warning light comes on
there’s a problem. and stays on for an extended period of time when the
transaxle shift lever is in any position other than
LOW (L), your vehicle needs service.
4-10
To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, Steering
you should always leave the Enhanced Traction System
on. But you can turn the system off if you prefer. Electric Power Steering
To turn the system off, shift to LOW (L) or REVERSE (R).
If the engine stalls while you are driving, the power
When you turn the system off, the Enhanced Traction steering assist system will continue to operate until you
System warning light will come on and stay on when the are able to stop your vehicle. If you lose power
gear shift is in LOW (L). The warning light will not come steering assist because the electric power steering
on when the gear shift is in REVERSE (R). If the system is not functioning, you can steer, but it will take
Enhanced Traction System is limiting wheel spin when more effort.
you shift to LOW (L) or REVERSE (R) to turn the system
off, the warning light will come on in LOW (L). But the If you turn the steering wheel in either direction several
system won’t turn off right away. It will wait until there’s no times until it stops, or hold the steering wheel in the
longer a current need to limit wheel spin. stopped position for an extended amount of time, you
may notice a reduced amount of power steering
You can turn the system back on at any time by shifting assist. The normal amount of power steering assist
to AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) or INTERMEDIATE (I). should return shortly after a few normal steering
The Enhanced Traction System warning light should movements.
go off.
The electric power steering system does not require
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s regular maintenance. If you suspect steering system
performance. See Accessories and Modifications problems and/or the POWER STEERING message
on page 5-3 for more information. comes on, contact your dealer for service repairs.
See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-42.
4-11
Steering Tips The same thing can happen if you are steering through
a sharp curve and you suddenly accelerate. Those
It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed. two control systems — steering and acceleration — can
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on overwhelm those places where the tires meet the road
the news happen on curves. Here is why: and make you lose control. See Enhanced Traction
System (ETS) on page 4-10.
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject
to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on
The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it the brake or accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way
possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn you want it to go, and slow down.
the front wheels. If there is no traction, inertia will keep Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should
the vehicle going in the same direction. If you have adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are
ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you will based on good weather and road conditions. Under less
understand this. favorable conditions you will want to go slower.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a
condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front
at which the curve is banked, and your speed. wheels are straight ahead.
While you are in a curve, speed is the one factor you
can control. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the
curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to
Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve. accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then
Then you suddenly apply the brakes. Both control accelerate gently into the straightaway.
systems — steering and braking — have to do their work
where the tires meet the road. Unless you have Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s
four-wheel anti-lock brakes, adding the hard braking can performance. See Accessories and Modifications
demand too much of those places. You can lose control. on page 5-3.
4-12
Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering can be more effective
than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find
a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls
out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between
parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can
avoid these problems by braking — if you can stop in
time. But sometimes you cannot; there is not room.
That is the time for evasive action — steering around
the problem.
Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like
these. First apply your brakes — but, unless you
have anti-lock brakes, not enough to lock your wheels.
See Braking on page 4-6. It is better to remove as
much speed as you can from a possible collision. An emergency like this requires close attention and a
Then steer around the problem, to the left or right quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at
depending on the space available. 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.
4-13
Off-Road Recovery Passing
You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
edge of a road onto the shoulder while you are driving. two-lane highway waits for just the right moment,
accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then
goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver?
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane
highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the
passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming
traffic for several seconds. 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 head-on collision.
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.
If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the
pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the • Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and
accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might
steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass.
pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to A broken center line usually indicates it is all
one-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts the right to pass, providing the road ahead is clear.
pavement edge. Then turn your steering wheel to Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or
go straight down the roadway. a double solid line, even if the road seems empty
of approaching traffic.
4-14
• Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to • Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder,
pass while you are awaiting an opportunity. and start your left lane change signal before moving
For one thing, following too closely reduces your out of the right lane to pass. When you are far
area of vision, especially if you are following a larger enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front
vehicle. Also, you will not have adequate space if in your inside mirror, activate your right lane
the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. change signal and move back into the right lane.
Keep back a reasonable distance. Remember that your passenger side outside mirror is
• When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be
farther away from you than it really is.
start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and do
not get too close. Time your move so you will be • Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on
increasing speed as the time comes to move into the two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the
other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a next vehicle.
running start that more than makes up for the • Do not overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly.
distance you would lose by dropping back. And if
Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may
something happens to cause you to cancel your
be slowing down or starting to turn.
pass, you need only slow down and drop back again
and wait for another opportunity. • If you are being passed, make it easy for the following
• If other vehicles are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease
a little to the right.
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.
4-15
Loss of Control A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off
the accelerator pedal.
Let us review what driving experts say about what If you have the Enhanced Traction System (ETS),
happens when the three control systems — brakes, remember: It helps to avoid only the acceleration skid.
steering, and acceleration — do not have enough friction See Enhanced Traction System (ETS) on page 4-10.
where the tires meet the road to do what the driver If you do not have the Enhanced Traction System,
has asked. or if the system is off, then an acceleration skid is
In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to also best handled by easing your foot off the
steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of accelerator pedal.
less danger. If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the
Skidding accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want
the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough,
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready
Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable for a second skid if it occurs.
care suited to existing conditions, and by not overdriving Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice,
those conditions. But skids are always possible. gravel, or other material is on the road. For safety,
The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle’s you will want to slow down and adjust your driving to
three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery
are not rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and
speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose vehicle control more limited.
cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too much
throttle causes the driving wheels to spin.
4-16
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, Driving at Night
try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration,
or braking, including engine braking by shifting to Night driving is more dangerous than day driving.
a lower gear. Any sudden changes could cause the tires One reason is that some drivers are likely to be
to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery impaired — by alcohol or drugs, with night vision
until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning problems, or by fatigue.
clues — such as enough water, ice, or packed snow
Here are some tips on night driving.
on the road to make a mirrored surface — and
slow down when you have any doubt. • Drive defensively.
If you have the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), • Do not drink and drive.
remember: It helps avoid only the braking skid. If you do • Adjust the inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare
not have ABS, then in a braking skid, where the from headlamps behind you.
wheels are no longer rolling, release enough pressure
on the brakes to get the wheels rolling again. This
• Since you cannot see as well, you may need to
restores steering control. Push the brake pedal down slow down and keep more space between you
steadily when you have to stop suddenly. As long as the and other vehicles.
wheels are rolling, you will have steering control. • 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.
4-17
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. Keep the windshield and all the glass on your vehicle
But as we get older these differences increase. clean — inside and out. Glare at night is made
A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much much worse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the
light to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. glass can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass
makes lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass
What you do in the daytime can also affect your
would, making the pupils of your eyes contract
night vision. For example, if you spend the day in
repeatedly.
bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses.
Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. Remember that the headlamps light up far less of a
But if you are driving, do not wear sunglasses at night. roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your
They may cut down on glare from headlamps, but eyes moving; that way, it is easier to pick out dimly
they also make a lot of things invisible. lighted objects. Just as the headlamps should be
checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching
be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from
headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even
night blindness — the inability to see in dim light — and
several seconds, for your eyes to re-adjust to the dark.
are not even aware of it.
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.
4-18
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet {CAUTION:
road, you cannot stop, accelerate, or turn as well
because your tire-to-road traction is not as good as on Wet brakes can cause accidents. They will not
dry roads. And, if your tires do not have much tread work as well in a quick stop and may cause
left, you will get even less traction. It is always wise to pulling to one side. You could lose control of
go slower and be cautious if rain starts to fall while
the vehicle.
you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when
your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. After driving through a large puddle of water
The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if the or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy until your brakes work normally.
rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic
signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road, and
even people walking. Driving too fast through large water puddles or even
going through some car washes can cause problems,
It is wise to keep the windshield wiping equipment in too. The water may affect the brakes. Try to avoid
good shape and keep the windshield washer fluid puddles. But if you cannot, try to slow down before you
reservoir filled with washer fluid. Replace the windshield hit them.
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.
4-19
Hydroplaning Driving Through Flowing Water
Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up
under the tires that they can actually ride on the
water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and {CAUTION:
you are going fast enough. When your vehicle is
hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces.
Hydroplaning does not happen often. But it can if If you try to drive through flowing water, as you
the tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can
one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water be carried away. As little as six inches of
is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle.
trees, telephone poles, or other vehicles, and If this happens, you and other vehicle
raindrops dimple the water’s surface, there could be occupants could drown. Do not ignore police
hydroplaning. warning signs, and otherwise be very cautious
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. about trying to drive through flowing water.
There just is not a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning.
The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
Driving Through Deep Standing Water
• Besides slowing down, allow some extra following
Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep distance. And be especially careful when you
puddles or standing water, water can come in pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear
through the engine’s air intake and badly damage room ahead, and be prepared to have your
the engine. Never drive through water that is slightly view restricted by road spray.
lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you
cannot avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive • Have good tires with proper tread depth.
through them very slowly. See Tires on page 5-45.
4-20
City Driving Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:
• Know the best way to get to where you are
going. Get a city map and plan your trip into
an unknown part of the city just as you would for a
cross-country trip.
• Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross
most large cities. You will save time and energy.
See Freeway Driving on page 4-22.
• 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.
4-21
Freeway Driving The most important advice on freeway driving is:
Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the
same speed most of the other drivers are driving.
Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow.
Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane.
At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to
the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as
you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin
to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect
to blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close
to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal,
check your mirrors, and glance over your shoulder as
often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with the
traffic flow.
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.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use
your turn signal.
Mile for mile, freeways — also called thruways, parkways,
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your
expressways, turnpikes, or superhighways — are the shoulder to make sure there is not another vehicle in
safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. 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.
4-22
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the Here are some things you can check before a trip:
proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, • Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full?
do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up.
Are all windows clean inside and outside?
Drive on to the next exit.
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
• Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
The exit speed is usually posted. • Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked
Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not all levels?
to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance • Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are
going slower than you actually are.
• Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for
long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to
Before Leaving on a Long Trip the recommended pressure?
Make sure you are ready. Try to be well rested. If you • Weather Forecasts: What is the weather outlook
must start when you are not fresh — such as after along your route? Should you delay your trip a
a day’s work — do not plan to make too many miles that short time to avoid a major storm system?
first part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing • Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?
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 find experienced and able service experts
in GM dealerships all across North America. They will
be ready and willing to help if you need it.
4-23
Winter Driving Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a
supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter
outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red
cloth, and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
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.
4-26
Whatever the condition — smooth ice, packed, blowing,
or loose snow — drive with caution.
If your vehicle has the Enhanced Traction System
(ETS), it will improve your ability to accelerate when
driving on a slippery road. Even though your vehicle has
this system, you will want to slow down and adjust
your driving to the road conditions. Under certain
conditions, you may want to turn the ETS off, such as
when driving through deep snow and loose gravel,
to help maintain vehicle motion at lower speeds.
See Enhanced Traction System (ETS) on page 4-10.
If your vehicle does not have ETS, 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.
Unless your vehicle has the Anti-Lock Brake System
(ABS), you will want to brake very gently, too. If your
What is the worst time for this? Wet ice. Very cold snow vehicle does have ABS, see Anti-Lock Brake System
or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice (ABS) on page 4-7. ABS improves your vehicle’s stability
can be even more trouble because it may offer the least when you make a hard stop on a slippery road.
traction of all. You can get wet ice when it is about Whether your vehicle has ABS or not, you will want to
freezing, 32°F (0°C), and freezing rain begins to fall. begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement.
Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews Without ABS, if you feel your vehicle begin to slide,
can get there. let up on the brakes a little. Push the brake pedal down
steadily to get the most traction you can.
4-27
Remember, unless your vehicle has ABS, if you brake If You Are Caught in a Blizzard
so hard that your wheels stop rolling, you will just
slide. Brake so the wheels always keep rolling and If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a
you can still steer. serious situation. You should probably stay with
your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near
• Whatever your vehicle’s braking system, allow help and you can hike through the snow.
greater following distance on any slippery road. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep
• Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine yourself and your passengers safe:
until you hit a spot that is covered with ice. • Turn on the hazard flashers.
On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear
in shaded areas where the sun cannot reach, • Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that
such as around clumps of trees, behind buildings, you have been stopped by the snow.
or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a • Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you.
curve or an overpass may remain icy when the If you do not have blankets or extra clothing, make
surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags,
ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not rags, floor mats — anything you can wrap around
to brake while you are actually on the ice, and yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.
avoid sudden steering maneuvers.
4-28
{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 check around
again from time to time to be sure snow does
not collect there.
Open a window just a little on the side of the
vehicle that is away from the wind. This will
You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful. help keep CO out.
4-29
Run the engine only as long as you must. This saves If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand,
fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster
than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. Mud, Ice or Snow
This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it
keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will
battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling need to spin the wheels, but you do not want to
later on with the headlamps. Let the heater run for spin your wheels too fast. The method known as
a while. rocking can help you get out when you are stuck,
but you must use caution.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost
all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine If your vehicle has the Enhanced Traction System
again and repeat this only when you feel really (ETS), the ETS can often help to free a stuck vehicle.
uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as See Enhanced Traction System (ETS) on page 4-10.
possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. If the stuck condition is too severe for the ETS to
To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle free the vehicle, turn the ETS off and use the
and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour rocking method.
or so until help comes.
4-30
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
{CAUTION: First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will
clear the area around your front wheels. If your vehicle
If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can has the Enhanced Traction System (ETS), turn the
explode, and you or others could be injured. ETS off. See Enhanced Traction System (ETS)
And, the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle on page 4-10. Then shift back and forth between
REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels
can overheat. That could cause an engine
as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal
compartment fire or other damage. When you while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal
are stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. when the transaxle is in gear. By slowly spinning your
Do not spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) wheels in the forward and reverse directions, you
as shown on the speedometer. will cause a rocking motion that may free your vehicle.
If that does not get you out after a few tries, you
may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed
Notice: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of out, see Towing Your Vehicle on page 4-37.
your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the
wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back
and forth, you can destroy your transaxle. See
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out on page 4-31.
For information about using tire chains on your vehicle,
see Tire Chains on page 5-59.
4-31
Loading Your Vehicle Tire and Loading Information Label
It is very important to know how much weight your vehicle
can carry. Two labels on your vehicle show how much
weight it may properly carry, the Tire and Loading
Information label and the Vehicle Certification label.
{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 Label Example
to lose control and crash. Also, overloading
can shorten the life of your vehicle. A vehicle specific Tire and Loading Information label
is attached to the vehicle’s center pillar (B-pillar).
With the driver’s door open, you will find the label
attached below the door lock post (striker). The tire and
loading information label lists the number of occupant
seating positions (A), and the maximum vehicle capacity
weight (B) in kilograms and pounds. The vehicle
capacity weight includes the weight of all occupants,
cargo, and all nonfactory-installed options
4-32
The Tire and Loading Information label also lists the 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of
tire size of the original equipment tires (C) and the cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if
recommended cold tire inflation pressures (D). the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be
For more information on tires and inflation, see Tires on five 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount
page 5-45 and Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-51. of available cargo and luggage load capacity is
650 lbs (1400 − 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs).
There is also important loading information on the
Certification/Tire label. It tells you the Gross Vehicle 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and
Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight
Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axles. may not safely exceed the available cargo
See “Certification/Tire Label” later in this section. and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from
your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle.
1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of Consult this manual to determine how this reduces
occupants and cargo should never exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity
XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your vehicle’s placard. for your vehicle.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and If your vehicle can tow a trailer, see Towing a Trailer
passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. (Manual Transaxle) on page 4-39 or Towing a
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and Trailer (Automatic Transaxle) on page 4-39 for important
passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs. information on towing a trailer, towing safety rules,
and trailering tips.
4-33
Example 1 Example 2
4-34
Certification Label
Example 3
4-35
The Certification/Tire label also tells you the maximum If you put things inside your vehicle — like suitcases,
weights for the front and rear axles, called the Gross tools, packages, or anything else — they will go as fast
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). To find out the actual loads as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn
on your front and rear axles, you need to go to a quickly, or if there is a crash, they will keep going.
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. {CAUTION:
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle or the GAWR
for either the front or rear axle. Things you put inside your vehicle can strike
and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or
in a crash.
{CAUTION: • Put things in the cargo area of your
vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly.
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the • Never stack heavier things, like suitcases,
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either inside the vehicle so that some of them
the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight are above the tops of the seats.
Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on your • Do not leave an unsecured child restraint
vehicle can break, and it can change the way in your vehicle.
your vehicle handles. These could cause you • When you carry something inside the
to lose control and crash. Also, overloading vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
can shorten the life of your vehicle. • Do not leave a seat folded down unless
you need to.
Notice: Overloading your vehicle may cause
damage. Repairs would not be covered by your
warranty. Do not overload your vehicle.
4-36
Towing With the proper preparation and equipment, many
vehicles can be towed in these ways. See “Dinghy
Towing” and “Dolly Towing,” following.
Towing Your Vehicle Here are some important things to consider before you
do recreational vehicle towing:
Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if
you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See • What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle?
Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-6. Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer’s
recommendations.
If you want to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle
for recreational purposes (such as behind a motorhome), • How far will you tow? Some vehicles have
see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” following. restrictions on how far and how long they can tow.
• Do you have the proper towing equipment?
Recreational Vehicle Towing See your dealer or trailering professional for
additional advice and equipment recommendations.
Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle
behind another vehicle — such as behind a motorhome. • Is your vehicle ready to be towed? Just as you
The two most common types of recreational vehicle would prepare your vehicle for a long trip, you
towing are known as “dinghy towing” (towing your will want to make sure your vehicle is prepared to
vehicle with all four wheels on the ground) and be towed. See Before Leaving on a Long Trip
“dolly towing” (towing your vehicle with two wheels on on page 4-23.
the ground and two wheels up on a device known
as a “dolly”).
4-37
Dinghy Towing To prevent the battery from draining while the vehicle is
being towed, remove the following fuse from the floor
You may dinghy tow your vehicle from the front following console fuse block: 8 (Ignition Switch, PASS-Key® III+).
these steps: See Floor Console Fuse Block on page 5-83 for
more information.
Remember to reinstall the fuse once you have reached
your destination.
Notice: If you exceed 65 mph (105 km/h) while
towing your vehicle, it could be damaged. Never
exceed 65 mph (105 km/h) while towing your vehicle.
Notice: Towing your vehicle from the rear could
damage it. Also, repairs would not be covered by
the warranty. Never have your vehicle towed from
the rear.
Dolly Towing
Your vehicle cannot be dolly towed, but can be dinghy
1. Set the parking brake. towed. See “Dinghy Towing” earlier in this section.
2. Turn the ignition key to ACC to unlock the steering Notice: Dinghy towing your vehicle may cause
wheel. damage because of reduced ground clearance.
3. Shift your transaxle to NEUTRAL (N). Always tow your vehicle using the dinghy towing
procedure listed in this section or put your vehicle
4. Release the parking brake. on a flatbed truck.
4-38
Towing a Trailer Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with an
automatic transaxle and the proper trailer towing
(Manual Transaxle) equipment. If your vehicle is not equipped as stated
above, do not tow a trailer. To identify the trailering
Do not tow a trailer if your vehicle is equipped with a capacity of your vehicle, you should read the information
manual transaxle. in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this
section. Trailering is different than just driving your
Towing a Trailer vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling,
acceleration, braking, cooling, durability and fuel
(Automatic Transaxle) economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct
equipment, and it has to be used properly.
That is the reason for this part. In it are many
{CAUTION: time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules.
Many of these are important for your safety and that of
If you do not use the correct equipment and your passengers. So please read this section carefully
before you pull a trailer.
drive properly, you can lose control when you
pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle,
heavy, the brakes may not work well — or even wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harder
at all. You and your passengers could be against the drag of the added weight. The engine
seriously injured. You may also damage your is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and
under greater loads, generating extra heat. Also,
vehicle; the resulting repairs would not be
the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance,
covered by your warranty. Pull a trailer only if increasing the pulling requirements.
you have followed all the steps in this section.
Ask your dealer for advice and information
about towing a trailer with your vehicle.
4-39
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer Three important considerations have to do with weight:
If you do, here are some important points: • The weight of the trailer
• There are many different laws, including speed limit • The weight of the trailer tongue
restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure • The total weight on your vehicle’s tires
your rig will be legal, not only where you live but
also where you will be driving. A good source Weight of the Trailer
for this information can be state or provincial police.
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
• Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch
dealer about sway controls. It should never weigh more than 1,000 lbs (450 kg).
But even that can be too heavy.
• Do not tow a trailer at all during the first 1,000 miles
(1 600 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example,
axle or other parts could be damaged. speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and
how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all
• Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you important. It can also depend on any special equipment
tow a trailer, do not drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) that you have on your vehicle, and the amount of tongue
and do not make starts at full throttle. This helps weight the vehicle can carry. See “Weight of the Trailer
your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in Tongue” later in this section for more information.
at the heavier loads.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the
• Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer. driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required
Do not drive faster than the maximum posted trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional
speed for trailers, or no more than 55 mph equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle
(90 km/h), to save wear on your vehicle’s parts. must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.
• Do not tow when the outside air temperature is
above 100°F (38°C).
• Do not tow more than 1,000 miles (1 600 km)
per year.
4-40
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or
advice, or you can write us at our Customer Assistance
Center. See Customer Assistance Offices on page 7-4
for more information.
In Canada write to:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario, L1H 8P7
4-41
Consider the following example: But let’s say your specific vehicle is equipped with some
of the latest options and you have a front seat passenger
A vehicle model base weight is 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg);
and two rear seat passengers with some luggage and
2,800 lbs (1 270 kg) at the front axle and 2,700 lbs
gear in the vehicle as well. You may add 300 lbs (136 kg)
(1 225 kg) at the rear axle. It has a GVWR of 7,200 lbs
to the front axle weight and 400 lbs (181 kg) to the rear
(3 266 kg), a RGAWR of 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) and a
axle weight. Your vehicle now weighs:
GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of
14,000 lbs (6 350 kg). The trailer rating should be:
Weight is still below 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) and you may
think that you should subtract 700 additional pounds
You can expect tongue weight to be at least 10 percent
(318 kg) from your trailering capacity to stay within
of trailer weight (850 lbs (386 kg) and because the
GCWR limits. Your maximum trailer would only be
weight is applied well behind the rear axle, the effect
7,800 lbs (3 538 kg). You may go further and think you
on the rear axle will be greater than just the weight itself,
must limit tongue weight to less than 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to
as much as 1.5 times as much. The weight at the
avoid exceeding GVWR. But, you must still consider the
rear axle could be 850 lbs (386 kg) X 1.5 = 1,275 lbs
effect on the rear axle. Because your rear axle now
(578 kg). Since the rear axle already weighs 2,700 lbs
weighs 3,100 lbs (1 406 kg), you can only put 900 lbs
(1 225 kg), adding 1,275 lbs (578 kg) brings the
(408 kg) on the rear axle without exceeding RGAWR.
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).
4-42
The effect of tongue weight is about 1.5 times the actual Hitches
weight. Dividing the 900 lbs (408 kg) by 1.5 leaves you
with being able to handle only 600 lbs (272 kg) of tongue It is important to have the correct hitch equipment.
weight. Since tongue weight is usually at least 10 percent Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads
of total loaded trailer weight, you can expect that the are a few reasons why you will need the right hitch.
largest trailer your vehicle can properly handle is Here are some rules to follow:
6,000 lbs (2 721 kg). • The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended
It is important that you make sure your vehicle does not for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or
exceed any of its ratings — GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, other bumper-type hitches to it. Use only a
Maximum Trailer Rating or Tongue Weight. The only frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to
way to be sure you are not exceeding any of these the bumper.
ratings is to weigh your vehicle and trailer. • Will you have to make any holes in the body of
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit you remove the hitch. If you do not seal them,
for cold tires. You will find these numbers on the deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust
Tire-Loading Information label. See Loading Your can get into your vehicle. See Engine Exhaust
Vehicle on page 4-32. Then be sure you do not go over on page 2-34. Dirt and water can also enter
the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight the vehicle.
of the trailer tongue.
4-43
Safety Chains Driving with a Trailer
You should always attach chains between your vehicle Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the Before setting out for the open road, you will want to
tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.
Instructions about safety chains may be provided by And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are
the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and
Always leave just enough slack so you can turn
attachments, safety chains, electrical connector, lamps,
with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric
on the ground. brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then
Trailer Brakes apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read electrical connection at the same time.
and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
you will be able to install, adjust and maintain them load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer
properly. Do not try to tap into your vehicle’s brake brakes are still working.
system. If you do, both brake systems will not work well,
or at all.
4-44
Following Distance Making Turns
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering
you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. could cause the trailer to come in contact with
This can help you avoid situations that require the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged.
heavy braking and sudden turns. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.
When you are turning with a trailer, make wider turns
Passing than normal. Do this so your trailer will not strike soft
You will need more passing distance up ahead when shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects.
you are towing a trailer. And, because the vehicle Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
is a good deal longer, you will need to go much farther
beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
your lane. When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a
different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring.
Backing Up Check with your dealer. The arrows on your instrument
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your flash, telling other drivers you are about to turn,
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, change lanes or stop.
have someone guide you. When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument
panel will flash 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 is
important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer
bulbs are still working.
4-45
Driving on Grades Parking on Hills
Notice: Do not tow on steep continuous grades
exceeding 6 miles (9.6 km). Extended, higher
than normal engine and transaxle temperatures may {CAUTION:
result and damage your vehicle. Frequent stops
are very important to allow the engine and transaxle You really should not park your vehicle, with a
to cool. trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start wrong, your rig could start to move. People can
down a long or steep downgrade. If you do not shift be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer
down, you might have to use your brakes so much that can be damaged.
they would get hot and no longer work well.
Pay attention to the engine coolant gage. If the indicator
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here is
is in the red area, turn off the air conditioning to reduce
how to do it:
engine load. See Engine Overheating on page 5-23.
1. Apply your regular brakes, but do not shift into
PARK (P) for an automatic transaxle, or into
gear for a manual transaxle. When parking uphill,
turn your wheels away from the curb. When parking
downhill, turn your wheels into the curb.
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer
wheels.
4-46
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the Maintenance When Trailer Towing
regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
Your vehicle will need service more often when you are
4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your pulling a trailer. See Scheduled Maintenance on
parking brake, and then shift into PARK (P) for page 6-4 for more on this. Things that are especially
an automatic transaxle or REVERSE (R) for important in trailer operation are automatic transaxle
a manual transaxle. fluid (do not overfill), engine oil, drive belt, cooling
5. Release the regular brakes. system and brake system.
Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index
When You Are Ready to Leave After will help you find them quickly. If you are trailering,
Parking on a Hill it is a good idea to review this information before you
start your trip.
1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down
while you: Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts
are tight.
• Start your engine.
• Shift into a gear. Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
• Release the parking brake. Your cooling system may temporarily overheat during
severe operating conditions. See Engine Overheating
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
on page 5-23.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.
4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the
chocks.
4-47
✍ NOTES
4-48
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
Service ............................................................5-3 Pressure Cap ...............................................5-23
Accessories and Modifications ..........................5-3 Engine Overheating .......................................5-23
California Proposition 65 Warning .....................5-3 Cooling System ............................................5-25
Doing Your Own Service Work .........................5-4 Windshield Washer Fluid ................................5-29
Adding Equipment to the Outside Brakes ........................................................5-30
of Your Vehicle ...........................................5-4 Battery ........................................................5-32
Fuel ................................................................5-5 Jump Starting ...............................................5-33
Gasoline Octane ............................................5-5 Headlamp Aiming ...........................................5-38
Gasoline Specifications ....................................5-5 Bulb Replacement ..........................................5-40
California Fuel ...............................................5-6 Halogen Bulbs ..............................................5-40
Additives .......................................................5-6 Headlamps, Front Turn Signal,
Fuels in Foreign Countries ...............................5-7 and Parking Lamps ....................................5-41
Filling the Tank ..............................................5-8 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) .........5-42
Filling a Portable Fuel Container .....................5-10 Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and
Checking Things Under the Hood ....................5-10 Back-up Lamps .........................................5-43
Hood Release ..............................................5-11 Replacement Bulbs .......................................5-44
Engine Compartment Overview .......................5-12 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ..............5-44
Engine Oil ...................................................5-13
Engine Oil Life System ..................................5-16 Tires ..............................................................5-45
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ................................5-18 Tire Sidewall Labeling ...................................5-46
Automatic Transaxle Fluid ..............................5-19 Tire Terminology and Definitions .....................5-48
Manual Transaxle Fluid ..................................5-19 Inflation - Tire Pressure .................................5-51
Hydraulic Clutch ...........................................5-20 Tire Inspection and Rotation ...........................5-52
Engine Coolant .............................................5-20 When It Is Time for New Tires .......................5-53
Buying New Tires .........................................5-54
5-1
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
Different Size Tires and Wheels ......................5-55 Windshield and Wiper Blades .........................5-77
Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..........................5-56 Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ................5-78
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ..................5-57 Tires ...........................................................5-79
Wheel Replacement ......................................5-58 Sheet Metal Damage .....................................5-79
Tire Chains ..................................................5-59 Finish Damage .............................................5-79
If a Tire Goes Flat ........................................5-60 Underbody Maintenance ................................5-79
Changing a Flat Tire .....................................5-61 Chemical Paint Spotting .................................5-79
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ................5-62 Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ..................5-80
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Vehicle Identification ......................................5-81
Spare Tire ................................................5-64 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) .................5-81
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools ............5-70 Service Parts Identification Label .....................5-81
Compact Spare Tire ......................................5-73
Electrical System ............................................5-82
Appearance Care ............................................5-74 Add-On Electrical Equipment ..........................5-82
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle .................5-74 Headlamp Wiring ..........................................5-82
Fabric/Carpet ...............................................5-75 Windshield Wiper Fuses ................................5-82
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Power Windows and Other Power Options .......5-82
Surfaces ..................................................5-76 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ............................5-82
Weatherstrips ...............................................5-76 Floor Console Fuse Block ..............................5-83
Washing Your Vehicle ...................................5-76 Engine Compartment Fuse Block ....................5-84
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses .....................5-77
Finish Care ..................................................5-77 Capacities and Specifications ..........................5-87
5-2
Service Accessories and Modifications
Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to When you add non-GM accessories to your vehicle they
be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer can affect your vehicle’s performance and safety,
for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts including such things as, braking, stability, ride and
and GM-trained and supported service people. handling, emissions systems, aerodynamics, durability,
and electronic systems like antilock brakes, traction
We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. control and stability control. Some of these accessories
Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: 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 GM-trained
and supported service technicians will perform the
work using genuine GM Accessories.
5-3
Doing Your Own Service Work 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,
{CAUTION: see Service Publications Ordering Information on
page 7-14.
You can be injured and your vehicle could be Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting
damaged if you try to do service work on a to do your own service work, see Servicing Your
vehicle without knowing enough about it. Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-70.
• Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list
experience, the proper replacement parts, the mileage and the date of any service work you
and tools before you attempt any vehicle perform. See Maintenance Record on page 6-14.
maintenance task.
• Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts, and Adding Equipment to the Outside
other fasteners. English and metric
fasteners can be easily confused. If you of Your Vehicle
use the wrong fasteners, parts can later
break or fall off. You could be hurt. Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle
can affect the airflow 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.
5-4
Fuel your vehicle’s acceleration may be slightly reduced,
and you may notice a slight audible knocking noise,
The 8th digit of your vehicle identification number (VIN) commonly referred to as spark knock. If the octane is
shows the code letter or number that identifies your less than 87, you may notice a heavy knocking
engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of the noise when you drive. If this occurs, use a gasoline
instrument panel. See Vehicle Identification Number rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible.
(VIN) on page 5-81. Otherwise, you might damage your engine. If you are
using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear
heavy knocking, your engine needs service.
Gasoline Octane
If your vehicle has the 2.2L L4 engine (VIN Code F), Gasoline Specifications
use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane
rating of 87 or higher. If the octane rating is less than 87, At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM
you may notice an audible knocking noise when you specification D 4814 in the United States or
drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. If this CAN/CGSB-3.5 in Canada. Some gasolines
occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as may contain an octane-enhancing additive called
soon as possible. If you are using gasoline rated at methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT).
87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, General Motors recommends against the use of
your engine needs service. gasolines containing MMT. See Additives on page 5-6
for additional information.
If your vehicle has the 2.4L L4 engine (VIN Code P),
use premium unleaded gasoline with a posted octane
rating of 91 or higher. You may also use regular
unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher, but
5-5
California Fuel Additives
If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emissions To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States
Standards, it is designed to operate on fuels that are now required to contain additives that will help
meet California specifications. See the underhood prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming,
emission control label. If this fuel is not available allowing your emission control system to work
in states adopting California emissions standards, properly. In most cases, you should not have to add
your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain
federal specifications, but emission control system only the minimum amount of additive required to
performance may be affected. The malfunction meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
indicator lamp may turn on and your vehicle may fail a To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean,
smog-check test. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp or if your vehicle experiences problems due to dirty
on page 3-35. If this occurs, return to your authorized injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised
GM dealer for diagnosis. If it is determined that the as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Also, your GM dealer
condition is caused by the type of fuel used, has additives that will help correct and prevent most
repairs may not be covered by your warranty. deposit-related problems.
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 specifications
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.
5-6
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that Fuels in Foreign Countries
contains methanol. Do not use fuel containing
methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel If you plan on driving in another country outside the
system and also damage the plastic and rubber United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard
parts. That damage would not be covered under to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel
your warranty. not recommended in the previous text on fuel.
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel would
emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive not be covered by your warranty.
called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or
(MMT); ask the attendant where you buy gasoline contact a major oil company that does business in the
whether the fuel contains MMT. General Motors country where you will be driving.
recommends against the use of such gasolines.
Fuels containing MMT can reduce the life of spark plugs
and the performance of the emission control system
may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp
may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized
GM dealer for service.
5-7
Filling the Tank
{CAUTION:
Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel fire can
cause bad injuries. To help avoid injuries to you
and others, read and follow all the instructions
on the pump island. Turn off your engine when
you are refueling. Do not smoke if you are near
fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks,
flames, and smoking materials away from fuel.
Do not leave the fuel pump unattended when
refueling your vehicle — this is against the law The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel
in some places. Keep children away from the door on the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
fuel pump; never let children pump fuel.
To open the fuel door, apply pressure in the center of
the rear edge of the fuel door and it will pop open.
To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly counterclockwise.
The fuel cap has a spring in it; if the cap is released
too soon, it will spring back to the right.
While refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap from the
hook on the fuel door.
5-8
The CHECK GAS CAP message will be displayed on
the Driver Information Center (DIC) if the fuel cap is not
{CAUTION: properly installed. See DIC Warnings and Messages
on page 3-42 for more information.
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. {CAUTION:
This spray can happen if your tank is nearly
full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open If a fire starts while you are refueling, do not
the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise remove the nozzle. Shut off the flow of fuel
to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. by shutting off the pump or by notifying the
station attendant. Leave the area immediately.
Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overfill the
tank and wait a few seconds after you have finished Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the
pumping before removing the nozzle. Clean fuel right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get
from painted surfaces as soon as possible. the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may
See Washing Your Vehicle on page 5-76. cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and
When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it may damage your fuel tank and emissions system.
clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The diagnostic See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 3-35.
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 3-35.
5-9
Filling a Portable Fuel Container Checking Things Under
the Hood
{CAUTION:
Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in
{CAUTION:
your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from
the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. An electric fan under the hood can start up
You can be badly burned and your vehicle and injure you even when the engine is not
damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away
you and others: from any underhood electric fan.
• Dispense gasoline only into approved
containers.
• Do not fill a container while it is inside a
vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed, or {CAUTION:
on any surface other than the ground.
• Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the Things that burn can get on hot engine parts
inside of the fill opening before operating and start a fire. These include liquids like fuel,
the nozzle. Contact should be maintained oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and
until the filling is complete. other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or
• Do not smoke while pumping gasoline. others could be burned. Be careful not to drop
or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.
5-10
Hood Release 2. Then go to the front of
the vehicle and push
To open the hood, do the following. the secondary
hood release lever to
1. Pull the interior hood the left. It is located
release lever with this under the front center
symbol on it. It is of the grille.
located to the left of
the instrument panel on
the driver’s side of
the vehicle.
5-11
Engine Compartment Overview
When you open the hood on the 2.4L engine (2.2L engine similar), here is what you will see:
5-12
A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Engine Oil
Washer Fluid” under Windshield Washer Fluid
on page 5-29. Checking Engine Oil
B. Pressure Cap. See Pressure Cap on page 5-23.
It is a good idea to check your engine oil every time you
C. Coolant Recovery Tank. See “Checking Coolant”
get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil
under Engine Coolant on page 5-20.
must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.
D. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter on page 5-18. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12
E. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil” for the location of the engine oil dipstick.
under Engine Oil on page 5-13.
1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes
F. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View). See “Checking to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this,
Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 5-13. the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
G. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See Brakes on
2. Pull the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or
page 5-30 and Hydraulic Clutch on page 5-20.
cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it
H. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. See Jump Starting on again, keeping the tip down and check the level.
page 5-33.
I. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine
Compartment Fuse Block on page 5-84.
5-13
When to Add Engine Oil See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 5-12
for the location of the
engine oil fill cap.
5-14
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use These numbers on an oil container show its
viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity
oils such as SAE 20W-50.
5-15
If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the When the system has calculated that oil life has been
temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), it is diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is
recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30 necessary. A CHANGE OIL SOON message in the
synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both will provide Driver Information Center (DIC) will come on. See
easier cold starting and better protection for your engine DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-42. Change
at extremely low temperatures. your oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles
(1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving
Engine Oil Additives under the best conditions, the oil life system may not
indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year.
Do not add anything to your oil. The recommended oils
However, your engine oil and filter must be changed
with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard
at least once a year and at this time the system must be
GM6094M are all you will need for good performance
reset. Your dealer has GM-trained service people who
and engine protection.
will perform this work using genuine GM parts and reset
the system. It is also important to check your oil
Engine Oil Life System regularly and keep it at the proper level.
If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must
When to Change Engine Oil change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your
Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system
when to change the engine oil and filter. This is based on whenever the oil is changed.
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.
5-16
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System What to Do with Used Oil
The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be
your engine oil and filter based on vehicle use. unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer.
Anytime your oil is changed, reset the system so it can Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long.
calculate when the next oil change is required. If a Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a
situation occurs where you change your oil prior to a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of
CHANGE OIL SOON message being turned on, clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the
reset the system. manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of
After changing the engine oil, the system must be reset oil products.
as follows: Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you
1. Turn the ignition to RUN, with the engine off. change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the
filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it
2. Press the information and reset buttons on the DIC in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers,
at the same time to enter the personalization menu. or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by
See DIC Vehicle Personalization on page 3-45. taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have
3. Press the information button to scroll through the a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your
available personalization menu modes until the dealer, a service station or a local recycling center
DIC display shows OIL-LIFE RESET. for help.
4. Press and hold the reset button until the DIC display
shows ACKNOWLEDGED. This will tell you the
system has been reset.
5. Turn the key to LOCK.
If the CHANGE OIL SOON message comes back on
when you start your vehicle, the engine oil life system
has not reset. Repeat the reset procedure.
5-17
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter How to Inspect the Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter
To inspect the air cleaner/filter remove the filter from the
vehicle and lightly shake the filter to release loose
dust and dirt. If the filter remains caked with dirt, a new
filter is required.
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may
choose to have this done at the dealership service
department.
To inspect or replace the filter, do the following:
1. Disconnect the MAF sensor, PCV hose, and
both ducts.
2. Pull the entire system from the top of the engine.
3. Flip the system over and place it on a soft,
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 non-abrasive surface.
for the location of the engine air cleaner/filter.
4. Remove the screws that hod the housing and cover
When to Inspect the Engine together and lift off the housing.
Air Cleaner/Filter 5. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the Maintenance II 6. Reverse the steps to reinstall the system. Be sure
intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each to reinstall the housing tightly.
50,000 mile (83 000 km) interval. See Scheduled
Maintenance on page 6-4 for more information. If you
are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter
at each engine oil change.
5-18
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
{CAUTION: It is not necessary to check the transaxle fluid level.
A transaxle fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss.
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter If a leak occurs, take your vehicle to the dealership
off can cause you or others to be burned. service department and have it repaired as soon
The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps as possible.
to stop flames if the engine backfires. If it is Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed in
not there and the engine backfires, you could Additional Required Services on page 6-6, and be sure
be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be to use the transaxle fluid listed in Recommended
careful working on the engine with the air Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-11.
cleaner/filter off. Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transaxle
fluid may damage your vehicle, and the damages
may not be covered by your warranty. Always use the
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can automatic transaxle fluid listed in Recommended
cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-11.
get into your engine, which will damage it. Always
have the air cleaner/filter in place when you are
driving. Manual Transaxle Fluid
It is not necessary to check the transaxle fluid level.
A transaxle fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a
leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealership service
department and have it repaired as soon as possible.
See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-11
for the proper fluid to use.
5-19
Hydraulic Clutch A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL® coolant will:
The hydraulic clutch linkage in your vehicle is • Give freezing protection down to −34°F (−37°C).
self-adjusting. This system does not have its own
reservoir. It receives fluid from the brake master • Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
cylinder reservoir. • Protect against rust and corrosion.
See Brakes on page 5-30 for more information. • Help keep the proper engine temperature.
• Let the warning lights and gages work as they
Engine Coolant should.
The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may
DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator
to remain in your vehicle for five years or 150,000 miles corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may
(240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only require changing sooner, at the first maintenance
DEX-COOL® extended life coolant. service after each 25,000 miles (41 500 km) or
The following explains your cooling system and how to 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating on DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
page 5-23.
5-20
What to Use Notice: If you use an improper coolant mixture,
your engine could overheat and be badly damaged.
Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and The repair cost would not be covered by your
one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which will not damage warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze
aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you do and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and
not need to add anything else. other parts.
If you have to add coolant more than four times a year,
have your dealer check your cooling system.
{CAUTION:
Notice: If you use extra inhibitors and/or additives
in your vehicle’s cooling system, you could
Adding only plain water to your cooling damage your vehicle. Use only the proper mixture
system can be dangerous. Plain water, or of the engine coolant listed in this manual for
some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil the cooling system. See Recommended Fluids and
before the proper coolant mixture will. Your Lubricants on page 6-11 for more information.
vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the
proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the
wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot
but you would not get the overheat warning.
Your engine could catch fire and you or others
could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,
drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.
5-21
Checking Coolant Adding Coolant
The coolant recovery tank If more coolant is needed, add the proper DEX-COOL®
cap has this symbol on it. coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but
The tank is located in only when the engine is cool.
the engine compartment If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, a
toward the front of the special fill procedure is necessary. See Cooling System
engine on the passenger’s on page 5-25 for more information.
side of the vehicle.
{CAUTION:
Turning the radiator pressure cap when the
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and
more information on location. scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly.
The vehicle must be on a level surface when checking With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost
the coolant level. never have to add coolant at the radiator.
Never turn the radiator pressure cap — even a
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at
little — when the engine and radiator are hot.
the COLD FILL line or a little higher. The COLD
FILL line is near the bottom of the tank and sticks out
from the rear of the tank.
5-22
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
{CAUTION:
{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, Steam from an overheated engine can burn
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot you badly, even if you just open the hood.
enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. 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
Pressure Cap down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or
Notice: If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant before you open the hood.
coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur. If you keep driving when your engine is
Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured. overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for You or others could be badly burned. Stop
more information on location. your engine if it overheats, and get out of the
vehicle until the engine is cool.
Engine Overheating
You will find a coolant temperature warning light and a Notice: If your engine catches fire because you
coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can
panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature Warning be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be
Light on page 3-34 and Engine Coolant Temperature covered by your warranty.
Gage on page 3-35 for more information.
5-23
If No Steam Is Coming From Your If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can
drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes.
Engine If the warning does not come back on, you can drive
An engine coolant temperature warning can indicate a normally.
serious problem. See Engine Coolant Temperature If the warning continues and you have not stopped, pull
Warning Light on page 3-34. over, stop, and park your vehicle right away.
If you get an engine coolant temperature warning, but If there is still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine
see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too for three minutes while you are parked. If you still
serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone
when you: out of the vehicle until it cools down.
• Climb a long hill on a hot day. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service
• Stop after high-speed driving. help right away.
• Idle for long periods in traffic.
• Tow a trailer.
If you get the engine coolant temperature warning with
no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so:
1. If you have an air conditioner and it is on, turn it off.
2. 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.
3. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan
speed and open the windows as necessary.
5-24
Cooling System
When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what {CAUTION:
you will see:
An electric engine cooling fan under the hood
can start up even when the engine is not
running and can injure you. Keep hands,
clothing and tools away from any underhood
electric fan.
A. Pressure Cap
B. Coolant Recovery Tank
C. Electric Engine Cooling Fan
5-25
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at Notice: Engine damage from running your engine
or above the COLD FILL line. If it is not, you may without coolant is not covered by your warranty.
have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may
heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere in cause premature engine, heater core or radiator
the cooling system. corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may
require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km)
or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Any repairs
{CAUTION: would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine
parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them.
How to Add Coolant to the
If you do, you can be burned. Cooling System
Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you Notice: Your engine has a specific cooling system
run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That drain and fill procedure. Failure to follow this
could cause an engine fire, and you could be procedure could cause your engine to overheat and
be severely damaged. If your engine’s cooling
burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive
system needs to be drained and re-filled, please see
the vehicle. your dealer.
If you have not found a problem yet, but the coolant
If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check level in the coolant recovery tank is below the COLD
to see if the electric engine cooling fan is running. FILL line, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water
If the engine is overheating, the fan should be running. and DEX-COOL® engine coolant at the coolant
If it is not, your vehicle needs service. recovery tank. See Engine Coolant on page 5-20 for
more information.
5-26
If no coolant is visible in the coolant recovery tank,
add coolant at the pressure cap as follows:
{CAUTION:
{CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling
system can be dangerous. Plain water, or
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil
system can blow out and burn you badly. before the proper coolant mixture will. Your
They are under pressure, and if you turn the vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the
pressure cap — even a little — they can come proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the
out at high speed. Never turn the cap when wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot
the cooling system, including the pressure but you would not get the overheat warning.
cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and Your engine could catch fire and you or others
pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,
the pressure cap. drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.
5-27
3. Add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture to the
coolant fill port, up to the base of the port. See
{CAUTION: Engine Coolant on page 5-20 for more information
about the proper coolant mixture.
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot 4. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the engine
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and the compartment.
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot 5. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD
enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. FILL line.
6. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but
1. You can remove the leave the pressure cap off.
pressure cap when 7. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the
the cooling system, upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the
including the pressure engine cooling fan.
cap and upper 8. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator
radiator hose, is no filler port may be lower. If the level is lower, add
longer hot. Turn the more of the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture
pressure cap slowly through the fill port until the level reaches the base
counterclockwise. of the fill port.
9. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during
this procedure, if coolant begins to flow out of the
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss fill port, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the
means there is still some pressure left to be vented. pressure cap is hand-tight and fully seated.
10. When the engine has cooled, check the coolant in
2. Then keep turning the pressure cap and remove it. the coolant recovery tank. The level in the coolant
recovery tank should be at the COLD FILL line
when the engine is cold.
5-28
Windshield Washer Fluid Notice:
• When using concentrated washer fluid,
What to Use follow the manufacturer’s instructions for
adding water.
When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read
the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will • Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid.
be operating your vehicle in an area where the Water can cause the solution to freeze and
temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has damage your washer fluid tank and other parts
sufficient protection against freezing. of the washer system. Also, water does not
clean as well as washer fluid.
Adding Washer Fluid • Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters
Open the cap with the full when it is very cold. This allows for
washer symbol on it. expansion if freezing occurs, which could
Add washer fluid until the damage the tank if it is completely full.
tank is full. See Engine • Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your
Compartment Overview on windshield washer. It can damage your washer
page 5-12 for reservoir system and paint.
location.
5-29
Brakes So, it is not a good idea to top off your brake fluid.
Adding brake fluid will not correct a leak. If you add
Brake Fluid fluid when your linings are worn, then you will have
too much fluid when you get new brake linings.
You should add or remove brake fluid, as necessary,
Your brake master cylinder
only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
reservoir is filled with
DOT-3 brake fluid.
See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 5-12 {CAUTION:
for the location of the
reservoir. If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on
the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is
hot enough. You or others could be burned,
and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake
fluid only when work is done on the brake
hydraulic system.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level
in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake
fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake
brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid warning light will come on. See Brake System Warning
level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is Light on page 3-32.
leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have
your brake system fixed, since a leak means that
sooner or later your brakes will not work well, or will not
work at all.
5-30
Brake Wear Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help
prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect
Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in
brakes. the proper sequence to GM torque specifications.
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a Your rear drum brakes do not have wear indicators, but
high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are if you ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the
worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come rear brake linings inspected immediately. Also, the rear
and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving, brake drums should be removed and inspected each
except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly. time the tires are removed for rotation or changing.
When you have the front brake pads replaced, have the
rear brakes inspected, too.
{CAUTION: Brake linings should always be replaced as complete
axle sets.
The brake wear warning sound means that soon
Brake Pedal Travel
your brakes will not work well. That could lead
to an accident. When you hear the brake wear See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to
warning sound, have your vehicle serviced. normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in
pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.
5-31
Replacing Brake System Parts Your vehicle’s battery is located in the trunk. You do not
need to access the battery to jump start your vehicle.
The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many See Jump Starting on page 5-33.
parts have to be of top quality and work well together if
Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related
the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle
accessories contain lead and lead compounds,
was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
parts. When you replace parts of your braking
cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after
system — for example, when your brake linings wear
handling.
down and you need new ones put in — be sure you get
new approved GM replacement parts. If you do not, Vehicle Storage
your brakes may no longer work properly. For example,
if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for If you are not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days
your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear or more, remove the black, negative (−) cable from
brakes can change — for the worse. The braking the battery. This will help keep your battery from
performance you have come to expect can change in running down.
many other ways if someone puts in the wrong
replacement brake parts.
{CAUTION:
Battery
Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas
Your vehicle has a maintenance free battery.
When it is time for a new battery, get one that has that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you
the replacement number shown on the original are not careful. See Jump Starting on page 5-33
battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelco® for tips on working around a battery without
replacement battery. getting hurt.
5-32
Jump Starting Notice: If the other vehicle’s system is not a 12-volt
system with a negative ground, both vehicles can
If your vehicle’s battery has run down, you may want to be damaged. Only use vehicles with 12-volt systems
use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your with negative grounds to jump start your vehicle.
vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely. 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
{CAUTION: connection you do not want. You would not be able
to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding
Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous could damage the electrical systems.
because: To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set
the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved
• They contain acid that can burn you. in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic
• They contain gas that can explode or ignite. transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in
• They contain enough electricity to burn you. NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake.
If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or Notice: If you leave your radio or other accessories
all of these things can hurt you. 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
Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly other accessories when jump starting your vehicle.
damage to your vehicle that would not be covered
by your warranty. 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug
Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette
will not work, and it could damage your vehicle. lighter or the accessory power outlet. Turn off the
radio and all lamps that are not needed. This will
1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it
battery with a negative ground system. could save the radio!
5-33
4. Open the hood on the other vehicle and locate the The remote negative (−)
positive (+) and negative (−) terminal locations on ground terminal, marked
that vehicle. GND (−), is located at
You will not see the battery of your vehicle under the front of the engine
the hood. It is located in the trunk. You will not need compartment on the
to access your battery for jump starting. Your driver’s side of the vehicle.
vehicle has a remote positive (+) and a remote
negative (−) jump starting terminal.
The remote positive
terminal is located under a
red tethered cap on the
engine compartment
fuse block. Remove the
cap to access the {CAUTION:
terminal.
An electric fan can start up even when the
engine is not running and can injure you.
Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.
5-34
{CAUTION: {CAUTION:
Using a match near a battery can cause battery Fans or other moving engine parts can injure
gas to explode. People have been hurt doing you badly. Keep your hands away from moving
this, and some have been blinded. Use a parts once the engine is running.
flashlight if you need more light.
Be sure the battery has enough water. You do
5. Check that the jumper cables do not have loose or
not need to add water to the battery installed missing insulation. If they do, you could get a
in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler shock. The vehicles could be damaged too.
caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there.
Before you connect the cables, here are some
If it is low, add water to take care of that first. basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to
If you don’t, explosive gas could be present. positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if
Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. the vehicle has one. Negative (−) will go to a heavy,
Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it unpainted metal engine part or to a remote
in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one.
with water and get medical help immediately. 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.
5-35
6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) 9. Connect the other end of the negative (−) cable to
terminal location on the vehicle with the dead the negative (−) terminal location on the vehicle with
battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the the dead battery. Your vehicle has a remote
vehicle has one. negative (−) ground terminal marked GND (−).
7. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to 10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run
the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a the engine for a while.
remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 11. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery.
8. Now connect the black negative (−) cable to the If it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs
negative (−) terminal of the good battery. Use a service.
remote negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one.
Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or
Do not let the other end touch anything until the removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may
next step. The other end of the negative (−) cable occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would
does not go to the dead battery. It goes to a not be covered by your warranty. Always connect
heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote and remove the jumper cables in the correct
negative (−) terminal on the vehicle with the order, making sure that the cables do not touch
dead battery. each other or other metal.
5-36
To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles,
do the following:
1. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the
vehicle that had the dead battery.
2. Disconnect the black negative (−) cable from the
vehicle with the good battery.
3. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the
vehicle with the good battery.
4. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the other
vehicle.
5. Return the positive (+) terminal cover to its original
position.
5-37
Headlamp Aiming The vehicle should be properly prepared as follows:
• The vehicle should be placed so the headlamps
The vehicle has a visual optical headlamp aiming are 25 ft. (7.6 m) from a light colored wall or
system. The aim has been preset at the factory and other flat surface.
should need no further adjustment.
• The vehicle must have all four tires on a level surface
However, if the vehicle is damaged in an accident, the which is level all the way to the wall or other flat
headlamp aim may be affected and adjustment may surface.
be necessary.
• The vehicle should be placed so it is perpendicular to
If oncoming vehicles flash their high beams at you, this the wall or other flat surface.
may also mean the vertical aim needs to be adjusted.
• The vehicle should not have any snow, ice, or
It is recommended that the vehicle is taken to your
mud on it.
dealer for service if the headlamps need to be re-aimed.
It is possible however, to re-aim the headlamps as • The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other
described in the following procedure. work stopped while headlamp aiming is being
performed.
• The vehicle should be normally loaded with a full
tank of fuel and one person or 160 lbs (75 kg) sitting
on the driver’s seat.
• Tires should be properly inflated.
• The spare tire is in its original location in the vehicle.
Headlamp aiming is done with the vehicle’s low-beam
headlamps. The high-beam headlamps will be correctly
aimed if the low-beam headlamps are aimed properly.
5-38
To adjust the vertical aim, do the following: Notice: Do not cover a headlamp to improve beam
1. Open the hood. See Hood Release on page 5-11 cut-off when aiming. Covering a headlamp may
for more information. cause excessive heat build-up which may cause
damage to the headlamp.
6. Turn on the low-beam headlamps and place a
piece of cardboard or equivalent in front of the
headlamp not being aimed. This should allow only
the beam of light from the headlamp being
aimed to be seen on the flat surface.
5-39
Bulb Replacement
For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see
Replacement Bulbs on page 5-44.
For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this
section, contact your dealer.
Halogen Bulbs
{CAUTION:
Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and
8. Turn the vertical aiming screw until the headlamp can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or
beam is aimed to the horizontal tape line. If you others could be injured. Be sure to read and
turn it clockwise, it will raise the beam and if follow the instructions on the bulb package.
you turn it counterclockwise, it will lower the beam.
The top edge of the cut-off should be positioned
at the bottom edge of the horizontal tape line.
9. Repeat Steps 7 and 8 for the opposite headlamp.
5-40
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, and
Parking Lamps
A. Headlamp
B. Turn Signal/Parking Lamp
To replace the headlamp, turn signal, or parking lamp 2. Remove the fasteners to access the headlamp and
bulb, do the following: turn signal/parking lamp bulbs.
1. Turn the wheel to access the wheel well. 3. Reach in behind the wheel well liner and locate the
bulb you wish to change.
4. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove.
5. Pull the old bulb out of the socket.
6. Install a new bulb.
7. Reverse the steps to reinstall.
5-41
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp 4. Locate the bulb you wish to change.
5. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove.
(CHMSL)
To replace the center high-mounted stoplamp bulb,
do the following:
1. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate on page 2-13
for more information.
5-42
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps
and Back-up Lamps
5-43
Replacement Bulbs Replacement blades come in different types and are
removed in different ways. For the proper type and
length, see Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Exterior Lamp Bulb Number
on page 6-13. Here’s how to remove the wiper blade:
Back-up Lamp and CHMSL 921 1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the
Front Turn Signal and windshield.
Parking Lamp 3157KX
Headlamp High/Low-Beam H13
Stoplamp/Taillamp/Turn Signal 3057KX
For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your
dealer.
5-44
Backglass Wiper Blade Replacement
1. Remove the protective cap from the wiper arm. {CAUTION:
If the protective cap is not removed before lifting
the wiper arm, the wiper arm could be damaged.
Poorly maintained and improperly used tires
2. Pull the wiper arm away from the backglass and are dangerous.
into the service position. • Overloading your tires can cause
3. Rotate the wiper blade, and pull down on it to overheating as a result of too much friction.
remove it from the wiper arm. You could have an air-out and a serious
4. Install the new wiper blade, then set the wiper arm accident. See Loading Your Vehicle on
back into its original position and replace the page 4-32.
protective cap. • Underinflated tires pose the same danger
as overloaded tires. The resulting accident
could cause serious injury. Check all tires
Tires frequently to maintain the recommended
Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by pressure. Tire pressure should be checked
a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions when your tires are cold. See Inflation - Tire
about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, Pressure on page 5-51.
see your GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional • Overinflated tires are more likely to be
information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet cut, punctured or broken by a sudden
included with your vehicle’s Owner Manual. impact — such as when you hit a pothole.
Keep tires at the recommended pressure.
• Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your
tread is badly worn, or if your tires have
been damaged, replace them.
5-45
Tire Sidewall Labeling (B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria
Specification): Original equipment tires designed
Useful information about a tire is molded into its to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a
sidewall. The examples below show a typical passenger TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall.
vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall. GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal
safety guidelines.
(C) DOT (Department of Transportation): The
Department of Transportation (DOT) code indicates that
the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of
Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
(D) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters and
numbers following DOT (Department of Transportation)
code is the Tire Identification Number (TIN). The TIN
shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size,
and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded
onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may
have the date of manufacture.
(E) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of
plies in the sidewall and under the tread.
(F) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire
manufacturers are required to grade tires based on
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Example three performance factors: treadwear, traction,
and temperature resistance. For more information see
(A) Tire Size: The tire size is a combination of letters Uniform Tire Quality Grading on page 5-56.
and numbers used to define a particular tire’s width,
height, aspect ratio, construction type, and service (G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum
description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this load that can be carried and the maximum pressure
section for more detail. needed to support that load.
5-46
(B) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of
plies in the sidewall and under the tread.
(C) Tire Identification Number (TIN): The letters
and numbers following the DOT (Department of
Transportation) code is the Tire Identification Number
(TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code,
tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The
TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only
one side may have the date of manufacture.
(D) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit: Maximum
load that can be carried and the maximum pressure
needed to support that load.
(E) Tire Inflation: The temporary use tire or compact
spare tire should be inflated to 60 psi (420 kPa).
For more information on tire pressure and inflation see
Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-51.
Compact Spare Tire Example (F) Tire Size: A combination of letters and numbers
define a tire’s width, height, aspect ratio, construction
(A) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare tire or type and service description. The letter T as the
temporary use tire has a tread life of approximately first character in the tire size means the tire is for
3,000 miles (5 000 km) and should not be driven temporary use only.
at speeds over 65 mph (105 km/h). The compact spare
tire is for emergency use when a regular road tire (G) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria
has lost air and gone flat. If your vehicle has a compact Specification): Original equipment tires designed to
spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire on page 5-73 GM’s specific tire performance criteria have a
and If a Tire Goes Flat on page 5-60. TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall.
GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all federal
safety guidelines.
5-47
Tire Size (D) Construction Code: A letter code is used to
indicate the type of ply construction in the tire.
The following illustration shows an example of a typical The letter R means radial ply construction; the letter D
passenger vehicle tire size. means diagonal or bias ply construction; and the
letter B means belted-bias ply construction.
(E) Rim Diameter: Diameter of the wheel in inches.
(F) Service Description: These characters represent
the load range and speed rating of the tire. The load
index represents the load carry capacity a tire is certified
to carry. The load index can range from 1 to 279. The
speed rating is the maximum speed a tire is certified
to carry a load. Speed ratings range from A to Z.
(A) Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: The United States
version of a metric tire sizing system. The letter P as the
first character in the tire size means a passenger vehicle Tire Terminology and Definitions
tire engineered to standards set by the U.S. Tire and Rim Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing
Association. outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure
(B) Tire Width: The three-digit number indicates the is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or
tire section width in millimeters from sidewall to sidewall. kilopascal (kPa).
Accessory Weight: This means the combined weight
(C) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that indicates the of optional accessories. Some examples of optional
tire height-to-width measurements. For example, if the accessories are, automatic transmission, power steering,
tire size aspect ratio is 60, as shown in item C of the power brakes, power windows, power seats, and air
illustration, it would mean that the tire’s sidewall is conditioning.
60 percent as high as it is wide.
Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire’s height to
its width.
5-48
Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords that is located GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the front
between the plies and the tread. Cords may be made axle, see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32.
from steel or other reinforcing materials.
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for the rear axle,
Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped by see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32.
steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim. Intended Outboard Sidewall: The side of an
Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies are asymmetrical tire, that must always face outward when
laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees to the mounted on a vehicle.
centerline of the tread. Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure.
Cold Inflation Pressure: The amount of air pressure in Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty
a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles.
kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heat from
Load Index: An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279
driving. See Inflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-51.
that corresponds to the load carrying capacity of a tire.
Curb Weight: This means the weight of a motor vehicle Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum air
with standard and optional equipment including the pressure to which a cold tire may be inflated. The
maximum capacity of fuel, oil and coolant, but without maximum air pressure is molded onto the sidewall.
passengers and cargo.
Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire at the
DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall of a maximum permissible inflation pressure for that tire.
tire signifying that the tire is in compliance with the
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) motor vehicle Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of curb
safety standards. The DOT code includes the Tire weight; accessory weight; vehicle capacity weight;
Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator and production options weight.
which can also identify the tire manufacturer, production Normal Occupant Weight: The number of occupants a
plant, brand and date of production. vehicle is designed to seat multiplied by 150 lbs (68 kg).
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, see Loading See Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32.
Your Vehicle on page 4-32. Occupant Distribution: Designated seating positions.
5-49
Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into contact
asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that faces with the road.
outward when mounted on a vehicle. The side of the tire
that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes
bears manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding called “wear bars,” that show across the tread of a
that is higher or deeper than the same moldings on tire when only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread remains.
the other sidewall of the tire. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 5-53.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on passenger UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards):
cars and some light duty trucks and multipurpose A tire information system that provides consumers
vehicles. with ratings for a tire’s traction, temperature, and
treadwear. Ratings are determined by tire manufacturers
Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle using government testing procedures. The ratings are
manufacturer’s recommended tire inflation pressure and molded into the sidewall of the tire. See Uniform
shown on the tire placard. See Inflation - Tire Pressure Tire Quality Grading on page 5-56.
on page 5-51 and Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32.
Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the ply cords Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of designated
that extend to the beads are laid at 90 degrees to the seating positions multiplied by 150 lbs (68 kg) plus
centerline of the tread. the rated cargo load. See Loading Your Vehicle
on page 4-32.
Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which the
tire beads are seated. Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on an
individual tire due to curb weight, accessory weight,
Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread and occupant weight, and cargo weight.
the bead.
Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned to a Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached to a
tire indicating the maximum speed at which a tire vehicle showing the vehicle’s capacity weight and
can operate. the original equipment tire size and recommended
inflation pressure. See “Tire and Loading Information
Traction: The friction between the tire and the road Label” under Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-32.
surface. The amount of grip provided.
5-50
Inflation - Tire Pressure A Tire and Loading Information label is attached to the
vehicle’s center pillar (B-pillar), below the driver’s
Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to operate door latch. This label shows your vehicle’s original
effectively. equipment tires and the correct inflation pressures for
your tires when they are cold. The recommended
Notice: Do not let anyone tell you that
cold tire inflation pressure, shown on the label, is the
under-inflation or over-inflation is all right. It is not.
minimum amount of air pressure needed to support your
If your tires do not have enough air (under-inflation),
vehicle’s maximum load carrying capacity.
you can get the following:
• Too much flexing For additional information regarding how much weight
your vehicle can carry, and an example of the tire
• Too much heat and loading information label, see Loading Your Vehicle
• Tire overloading on page 4-32. How you load your vehicle affects
vehicle handling and ride comfort, never load your
• Premature or irregular wear vehicle with more weight than it was designed to carry.
• Poor handling When to Check
• Reduced fuel economy
Check your tires once a month or more. Do not forget
If your tires have too much air (over-inflation), to check the compact spare tire, it should be at
you can get the following: 60 psi (420 kPa). For additional information regarding
• Unusual wear the compact spare tire, see Compact Spare Tire
on page 5-73.
• Poor handling
• Rough ride
• Needless damage from road hazards
5-51
How to Check Tire Inspection and Rotation
Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles
pressure. You cannot tell if your tires are properly (8 000 to 13 000 km).
inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look
Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as
properly inflated even when they are under-inflated. soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also
Check the tire’s inflation pressure when the tires
check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time
are cold. Cold means your vehicle has been sitting for New Tires on page 5-53 and Wheel Replacement
for at least three hours or driven no more than
on page 5-58 for more information.
1 mile (1.6 km).
The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more
Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem. Press
uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The first rotation
the tire gage firmly onto the valve to get a pressure
is the most important. See Scheduled Maintenance
measurement. If the cold tire inflation pressure matches
on page 6-4.
the recommended pressure on the Tire and Loading
Information label, no further adjustment is necessary.
If the inflation pressure is low, add air until you reach the
recommended amount.
If you overfill the tire, release air by pushing on the
metal stem in the center of the tire valve. Re-check the
tire pressure with the tire gage.
Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems.
They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.
5-52
Do not include the compact spare tire in your tire When It Is Time for New Tires
rotation.
One way to tell when it is
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and time for new tires is to
rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire and
check the treadwear
Loading Information label. indicators, which will
Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. appear when your tires
See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and have only 1/16 inch
Specifications on page 5-87. (1.6 mm) or less of
tread remaining.
{CAUTION:
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to
which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts
become loose after a time. The wheel could You need a new tire if any of the following statements
come off and cause an accident. When you are true:
change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from • You can see the indicators at three or more places
places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. around the tire.
In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a • You can see cord or fabric showing through the
paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a tire’s rubber.
scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get all
the rust or dirt off. See Changing a Flat Tire on
• The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut, or snagged
deep enough to show cord or fabric.
page 5-61.
• The tire has a bump, bulge, or split.
• The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that
cannot be repaired well because of the size or
location of the damage.
5-53
Buying New Tires
GM has developed and matched specific tires for your {CAUTION:
vehicle. The original equipment tires installed on
your vehicle, when it was new, were designed to meet Mixing tires could cause you to lose control
General Motors Tire Performance Criteria Specification while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes,
(TPC spec) system rating. If you need replacement brands, or types (radial and bias-belted tires),
tires, GM strongly recommends that you get tires with
the vehicle may not handle properly, and you
the same TPC Spec rating. This way, your vehicle
will continue to have tires that are designed to give the could have a crash. Using tires of different
same performance and vehicle safety, during normal sizes, brands, or types may also cause damage
use, as the original tires. to your vehicle. Be sure to use the correct size,
brand, and type of tires on all wheels. It is
GM’s exclusive TPC Spec system considers over a
dozen critical specifications that impact the overall all right to drive with your compact spare
performance of your vehicle, including brake system temporarily, as it was developed for use on your
performance, ride and handling, traction control, and tire vehicle. See Compact Spare Tire on page 5-73.
pressure monitoring performance. GM’s TPC Spec
number is molded onto the tire’s sidewall by the
tire manufacturer. If the tires have an all-season tread
design, the TPC spec number will be followed by
an MS for mud and snow. See Tire Sidewall Labeling
on page 5-46 for additional information.
5-54
Different Size Tires and Wheels
{CAUTION: If you add wheels or tires that are a different size than
your original equipment wheels and tires, this may
If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle, the affect the way your vehicle performs, including its
braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability and
wheel rim flanges could develop cracks after
resistance to rollover. Additionally, if your vehicle
many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel has electronic systems such as, antilock brakes; traction
could fail suddenly, causing a crash. Use only control; and electronic stability control, the performance
radial-ply tires with the wheels on your vehicle. of these systems can be affected.
5-55
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on
tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled
section width. For example: conditions on a specified government test course.
For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as
a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires
The following information relates to the system depends upon the actual conditions of their use,
developed by the United States National Highway however, and may depart significantly from the norm
Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by due to variations in driving habits, service practices and
treadwear, traction and temperature performance. differences in road characteristics and climate.
(This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.)
The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most Traction – AA, A, B, C
passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading
system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A,
snow tires, space-saver or temporary use spare tires, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s ability
tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled
(25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires. conditions on specified government test surfaces of
asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor
While the tires available on General Motors passenger traction performance. Warning: The traction grade
cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these assigned to this tire is based on straight-ahead braking
grades, they must also conform to federal safety traction tests, and does not include acceleration,
requirements and additional General Motors Tire cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.
5-56
Temperature – A, B, C Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, The tires and wheels on your vehicle were aligned
representing the tire’s resistance to the generation and balanced carefully at the factory to give you
of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested the longest tire life and best overall performance.
under controlled conditions on a specified indoor Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire balancing
laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature will not be necessary on a regular basis. However,
can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and if you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling to
reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to one side or the other, the alignment may need to be
sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a checked. If you notice your vehicle vibrating when
level of performance which all passenger car tires must driving on a smooth road, your tires and wheels
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard may need to be rebalanced. See your dealer for
No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of proper diagnosis.
performance on the laboratory test wheel than the
minimum required by law.
Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or
excessive loading, either separately or in combination,
can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
5-57
Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked or badly rusted {CAUTION:
or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the
wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts should be replaced. Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel
If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be
aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). dangerous. It could affect the braking and
See your dealer if any of these conditions exist.
handling of your vehicle, make your tires lose
Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need. air and make you lose control. You could have
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying a collision in which you or others could be
capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel
the same way as the one it replaces. bolts and wheel nuts for replacement.
If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts
or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original
Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems
equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have
with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or
the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for
odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height,
your vehicle.
vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire chain
clearance to the body and chassis.
See Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-61 for more
information.
5-58
Used Replacement Wheels Tire Chains
{CAUTION: {CAUTION:
Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is Do not use tire chains. There is not enough
dangerous. You cannot know how it has been clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle
used or how far it has been driven. It could fail without the proper amount of clearance can
suddenly and cause a crash. If you have to cause damage to the brakes, suspension or
replace a wheel, use a new GM original other vehicle parts. The area damaged by the
equipment wheel. tire chains could cause you to lose control of
your vehicle and you or others may be injured
in a crash.
Use another type of traction device only if its
manufacturer recommends it for use on your
vehicle and tire size combination and road
conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s
instructions. To help avoid damage to your
vehicle, drive slowly, readjust or remove the
device if it is contacting your vehicle, and do
not spin your vehicle’s wheels. If you do find
traction devices that will fit, install them on the
front tires.
5-59
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blowout while you are driving, {CAUTION:
especially if you maintain your vehicle’s tires properly.
If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do
slowly. But if you should ever have a blowout, here maintenance or repairs is dangerous without
are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: the appropriate safety equipment and training.
If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls The jack provided with your vehicle is
the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the designed only for changing a flat tire. If it is
accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. used for anything else, you or others could be
Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off
a stop well out of the traffic lane.
the jack. Use the jack provided with your
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a vehicle only for changing a flat tire.
skid and may require the same correction you would
use in a skid. In any rear blowout remove your foot from
the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use the
by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely.
be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer.
Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.
5-60
Changing a Flat Tire
CAUTION: (Continued)
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage
by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your
hazard warning flashers. To be even more certain the vehicle will not
move, you should put blocks at the front and
rear of the tire farthest away from the one
{CAUTION: being changed. That would be the tire on the
other side, at the opposite end of the vehicle.
Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle
can slip off the jack and roll over or fall on you When you have a flat tire, use the following example as a
or other people. You and they could be badly guide to assist you in the placement of wheel blocks.
injured or even killed. Find a level place to
change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle
from moving:
1. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic transaxle shift lever in
PARK (P), or shift a manual transaxle to
FIRST (1) or REVERSE (R).
3. Turn off the engine and do not restart
while the vehicle is raised.
4. Do not allow passengers to remain in the
vehicle.
CAUTION: (Continued)
The following information will tell you how to use the
jack and change a tire.
5-61
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
The jack, wheel wrench, and spare tire are stowed
in the rear of the vehicle, underneath the floor of the
cargo area. To remove the spare tire and tools, do the
following:
1. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate on page 2-13 for
more information.
5-62
The tools you will be using include the jack (A) and You will need to turn the plastic wheel nut
wheel wrench (B). counterclockwise to loosen the wheel wrench from
the jack.
5-63
Removing the Flat Tire and
Installing the Spare Tire
Press the button and then pull on the end of the wheel
wrench to extend the handle.
5-64
{CAUTION:
Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is
dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack you
could be badly injured or killed. Never get under
a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.
{CAUTION:
Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly
2. Position the jack and raise the jack lift head to fit positioned can damage the vehicle and even
over the car flange under the down arrow markings make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal
on the rocker panel. injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the
jack lift head into the proper location before
raising the vehicle.
5-65
4. Remove all the wheel
nuts and take off the
flat tire.
5-66
6. Remove any rust or dirt
from the wheel bolts,
{CAUTION: mounting surfaces
and spare wheel.
Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to
which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts
become loose after a time. The wheel could
come off and cause an accident. When you
change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from
the places where the wheel attaches to the
vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth
or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use 7. Place the compact spare tire on the wheel-mounting
a scraper or wire brush later, if needed, to get surface.
all the rust or dirt off.
5-67
{CAUTION:
Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you
do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel
could fall off, causing a serious accident.
5-68
Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead
to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid
{CAUTION: expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel
nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque
Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened specification. See Capacities and Specifications on
wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come loose page 5-87 for the wheel nut torque specification.
and even come off. This could lead to an 10. Tighten the wheel nuts
accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel firmly in a crisscross
nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to sequence as shown.
get new GM original equipment wheel nuts.
Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have
the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to the
proper torque specification. See Capacities
and Specifications on page 5-87 for wheel nut
torque specification.
5-69
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire
and Tools
{CAUTION:
Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the
passenger compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision,
loose equipment could strike someone.
Store all these in the proper place.
5-70
5. Attach the strap to the
cargo tie-downs in the
rear of the vehicle.
Steel Wheel
4. Route the tie-down strap through the tire as shown
in the graphic
5-71
Storing the Compact Spare Tire 1. Open the liftgate. See Liftgate on page 2-13 for
more information.
and Tools
2. Install the strap (F) on the floor of the spare tire
Use the following diagram as a guide for storing the compartment.
compact spare tire once you are done using it.
3. Place the jack and wheel wrench (E) over the
bolt (G), making sure the strap is securely
stored, under the jack and wheel wrench.
4. Secure the jack and wheel wrench (E) with the
wing nut (D).
5. With the valve stem up, place the spare tire (C) on
the compartment floor.
6. Make sure the bolt (G) passes through the wheel
center.
7. Install the spare tire cover (B).
8. Secure the spare tire and tools with the retainer (A).
The compact spare tire storage area is designed only
for the compact spare tire, the standard tire cannot
be stored there.
A. Retainer E. Jack and
B. Cover Wheel Wrench
C. Spare Tire F. Strap
D. Wing Nut G. Bolt
5-72
Compact Spare Tire Notice: When the compact spare is installed, do not
take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with
Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on
your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and
Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be maybe other parts of your vehicle.
60 psi (420 kPa).
Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles.
After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel with
you should stop as soon as possible and make sure other wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your spare tire
your spare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare and its wheel together.
is made to perform well at speeds up to 50 mph
(80 km/h) for distances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), Notice: Tire chains will not fit your compact spare.
so you can finish your trip and have your full-size Using them can damage your vehicle and can
tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, damage the chains too. Do not use tire chains on
it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon your compact spare.
as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good
shape in case you need it again.
5-73
Appearance Care Notice: If you use abrasive cleaners when cleaning
glass surfaces on your vehicle, you could scratch
the glass and/or cause damage to the rear window
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle defogger. When cleaning the glass on your
vehicle, use only a soft cloth and glass cleaner.
Your vehicle’s interior will continue to look its best if
Many cleaners contain solvents that may become
it is cleaned often. Although not always visible, dust and
concentrated in your vehicle’s breathing space.
dirt can accumulate on your upholstery. Dirt can
Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety
damage carpet, fabric, leather, and plastic surfaces.
instructions on the label. While cleaning your vehicle’s
Regular vacuuming is recommended to remove particles
interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening
from your upholstery. It is important to keep your
your vehicle’s doors and windows.
upholstery from becoming and remaining heavily
soiled. Soils should be removed as quickly as possible. Dust may be removed from small buttons and knobs
Your vehicle’s interior may experience extremes of using a small brush with soft bristles.
heat that could cause stains to set rapidly. Your GM dealer has a product for cleaning your
Lighter colored interiors may require more frequent vehicle’s glass. Should it become necessary, you can
cleaning. Use care because newspapers and garments also obtain a product from your GM dealer to remove
that transfer color to your home furnishings may also odors from your vehicle’s upholstery.
transfer color to your vehicle’s interior.
When cleaning your vehicle’s interior, only use cleaners
specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned.
Permanent damage may result from using cleaners on
surfaces for which they were not intended. Use glass
cleaner only on glass. Remove any accidental
over-spray from other surfaces immediately. To prevent
over-spray, apply cleaner directly to the cleaning cloth.
5-74
Do not clean your vehicle using the following cleaners Fabric/Carpet
or techniques:
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
• Never use a knife or any other sharp object to frequently to remove dust and loose dirt. A canister
remove a soil from any interior surface. vacuum with a beater bar in the nozzle may only be used
• Never use a stiff brush. It can cause damage to on floor carpet and carpeted floor mats. For soils, always
your vehicle’s interior surfaces. try to remove them first with plain water or club soda.
Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as
• Never apply heavy pressure or rub aggressively possible using one of the following techniques:
with a cleaning cloth. Use of heavy pressure
can damage your interior and does not improve • For liquids: gently blot the remaining soil with a paper
the effectiveness of soil removal. towel. Allow the soil to absorb into the paper towel
until no more can be removed.
• Use only mild, neutral-pH soaps. Avoid laundry
detergents or dishwashing soaps with degreasers. • For solid dry soils: remove as much as possible and
Using too much soap will leave a residue that then vacuum.
leaves streaks and attracts dirt. For liquid cleaners, To clean, use the following instructions:
about 20 drops per gallon (3.78 L) of water is a
1. Saturate a lint-free, clean white cloth with water or
good guide.
club soda.
• Do not heavily saturate your upholstery while 2. Wring the cloth to remove excess moisture.
cleaning.
3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub
• Damage to your vehicle’s interior may result from toward the center. Continue cleaning, using a clean
the use of many organic solvents such as naptha, area of the cloth each time it becomes soiled.
alcohol, etc.
4. Continue to gently rub the soiled area until the
cleaning cloth remains clean.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild
soap solution and repeat the cleaning process
that was used with plain water.
5-75
If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric cleaner or Some commercial products may increase gloss on your
spot lifter may be necessary. When a commercial instrument panel. The increase in gloss may cause
upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be used, test a annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it
small hidden area for colorfastness first. If the locally difficult to see through the windshield under certain
cleaned area gives any impression that a ring formation conditions.
may result, clean the entire surface.
After the cleaning process has been completed, a paper Weatherstrips
towel can be used to blot excess moisture from the
fabric or carpet. Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold,
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and damp weather frequent application may be required.
Other Plastic Surfaces See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-11.
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to Washing Your Vehicle
remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary,
a clean soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution The paint finish on the vehicle provides beauty,
can be used to gently remove dust and dirt. Never use depth of color, gloss retention, and durability.
spot lifters or removers on plastic surfaces. Many
commercial cleaners and coatings that are sold to The best way to preserve the vehicle’s finish is to keep it
preserve and protect soft plastic surfaces may clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water.
permanently change the appearance and feel of your Do not wash the vehicle in the direct rays of the sun.
interior and are not recommended. Do not use silicone Use a car washing soap. Do not use strong soaps
or wax-based products, or those containing organic or chemical detergents. Be sure to rinse the vehicle well,
solvents to clean your vehicle’s interior because removing all soap residue completely. GM-approved
they can alter the appearance by increasing the gloss in cleaning products can be obtained from your dealer.
a non-uniform manner. See Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials on page 5-80.
5-76
Do not use cleaning agents that are petroleum based, The vehicle has a “basecoat/clearcoat” paint finish.
or that contain acid or abrasives. All cleaning agents The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the
should be flushed promptly and not allowed to dry on the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that
surface, or they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, are non-abrasive and made for a basecoat/clearcoat
clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface paint finish.
scratches and water spotting. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other
High pressure car washes may cause water to enter salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird
the vehicle. droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc.,
can damage the vehicle’s finish if they remain on
painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather,
Follow instructions under Washing Your Vehicle on and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period
page 5-76. of years. To help keep the paint finish looking new, keep
the vehicle in a garage or covered whenever possible.
Finish Care
Occasional waxing or mild polishing of the vehicle by Windshield and Wiper Blades
hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield
finish. GM-approved cleaning products can be obtained washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running,
from your dealer. See Vehicle Care/Appearance wax, sap, or other material may be on the blade
Materials on page 5-80. or windshield.
Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive Clean the outside of the windshield with a glass cleaning
polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may liquid or powder and water solution. The windshield is
damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and clean if beads do not form when it is rinsed with water.
polishes that are made for a basecoat/clearcoat
paint finish on your vehicle.
5-77
Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted
and affect their performance. Clean the blade by surface of your vehicle. Do not use strong soaps,
wiping vigorously with a cloth soaked in full-strength chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners,
windshield washer solvent. Then rinse the blade cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning brushes on
with water. them because you could damage the surface. Do not
use chrome polish on aluminum wheels.
Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary;
replace blades that look worn. Notice: Using chrome polish on aluminum wheels
could damage the wheels. The repairs would not
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels be covered by your warranty. Use chrome polish on
chrome wheels only.
The vehicle may be equipped with either aluminum or Use chrome polish only on chrome-plated wheels, but
chrome-plated wheels. avoid any painted surface of the wheel, and buff off
Keep the wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild immediately after application.
soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing
Notice: If you drive your vehicle through an
thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then
automatic car wash that has silicone carbide tire
be applied.
cleaning brushes, you could damage the aluminum
Notice: If you use strong soaps, chemicals, or chrome-plated wheels. The repairs would not
abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners be covered by your warranty. Never drive a vehicle
that contain acid on aluminum or chrome-plated equipped with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels
wheels, you could damage the surface of the through an automatic car wash that uses silicone
wheel(s). The repairs would not be covered by your carbide tire cleaning brushes.
warranty. Use only GM-approved cleaners on Do not take your vehicle through an automatic car wash
aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. that has silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. These
brushes can also damage the surface of these wheels.
5-78
Tires Underbody Maintenance
To clean the tires, use a stiff brush with tire cleaner. Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust
control can collect on the underbody. If these are not
Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing removed, corrosion and rust can develop on the
products on your vehicle may damage the paint underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan,
finish and/or tires. When applying a tire dressing, and exhaust system even though they have corrosion
always wipe off any overspray from all painted protection.
surfaces on your vehicle.
At least every spring, flush these materials from the
underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud
Sheet Metal Damage and debris can collect. Dirt packed in close areas of
If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal the frame should be loosened before being flushed.
repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can
applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or do this for you.
replaced to restore corrosion protection.
Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide the Chemical Paint Spotting
corrosion protection while maintaining the warranty. Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a
chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and
Finish Damage attack painted surfaces on the vehicle. This damage
can take two forms: blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations,
Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint
should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode surface.
quickly and may develop into major repair expense. Although no defect in the paint job causes this, GM will
Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of
materials available from your GM dealer. Larger areas of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within
finish damage can be corrected in your GM dealer’s body 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase,
and paint shop. whichever occurs first.
5-79
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials Description Usage
Removes swirl marks, fine
Description Usage Swirl Remover Polish scratches and other light
Polishing Cloth Interior and exterior surface contamination.
Wax-Treated polishing cloth. Removes light scratches
Cleaner Wax and protects finish.
Tar and Road Removes tar, road oil
Oil Remover and asphalt. Cleans, shines and
Foaming Tire Shine
Chrome Cleaner Use on chrome or Low Gloss protects in one easy step,
and Polish stainless steel. no wiping necessary.
White Sidewall Removes soil and black Medium foaming
Tire Cleaner marks from whitewalls. shampoo. Cleans and
Wash Wax Concentrate lightly waxes.
Vinyl Cleaner Cleans vinyl. Biodegradable and
phosphate free.
Removes dirt, grime,
Glass Cleaner smoke and fingerprints. Quickly and easily
Spot Lifter removes spots and stains
Removes dirt and grime from carpets, vinyl and
Chrome and Wire
Wheel Cleaner from chrome wheels and cloth upholstery.
wire wheel covers.
Odorless spray odor
Removes dust, Odor Eliminator eliminator used on fabrics,
Finish Enhancer fingerprints, and surface vinyl, leather and carpet.
contaminants. Spray on
wipe off.
5-80
Vehicle Identification Engine Identification
The eighth character in the VIN is the engine code.
This code will help you identify your vehicle’s engine,
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) specifications, and replacement parts.
This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on • Model designation
a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on • Paint information
the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the
windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also • Production options and special equipment
appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle.
labels and the certificates of title and registration.
5-81
Electrical System Power Windows and Other
Power Options
Add-On Electrical Equipment Fuses in the fuse block protect the power windows.
Notice: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle When the current load is too heavy, the fuse opens
unless you check with your dealer first. Some protecting the circuit until the problem is fixed.
electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and
the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Fuses and Circuit Breakers
Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other
components from working as they should. The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from
Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers
add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing and fusible thermal links. This greatly reduces the
Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-70. chance of damage caused by electrical problems.
Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the
band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you
Headlamp Wiring replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size
The headlamp wiring is protected by fuses. Should your and rating.
headlamps fail to function, have your headlamp system If you ever have a problem on the road and do not have
checked right away. a spare fuse, you can “borrow” one that has the same
amperage. Just pick some feature of your vehicle
Windshield Wiper Fuses that you can get along without — like the radio or
cigarette lighter — and use its fuse if it is the correct
The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit amperage. Replace it as soon as you can.
breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy There are two fuse blocks in your vehicle: the floor
snow or ice, the wiper will stop until the motor cools. console fuse block and the engine compartment
If the overload is caused by some electrical problem, fuse block.
have it fixed.
5-82
Floor Console Fuse Block Fuses Usage
The floor console fuse block is located on the 1 Fuse Puller
passenger’s side of the console behind the forward 2 Spare
panel.
3 Spare
The panel has four clips, one in each corner. Pull the
panel to disconnect the four clips, and access the fuses. 4 Spare
Use the fuse puller to remove fuses. 5 Spare
6 Amplifier
7 Cluster
8 Ignition Switch, PassKey
9 Stoplamp
10 Climate Control System, PassKey
11 Empty
12 Spare
13 Airbag
14 Spare
15 Wiper
16 Climate Control System, Ignition
17 Blank
18 Blank
5-83
Fuses Usage Engine Compartment Fuse Block
Electric Power Steering, The underhood fuse block is located on the driver’s side
19 Steering Wheel Controls of the engine compartment. Lift the cover to access
20 Sunroof the fuse/relay block.
21 Spare
22 Blank
23 Radio
24 Sensing and Diagnostic Module
5-84
Fuses Usage Fuses Usage
4 Body Control Module 3 23 Heated Seats (Option)
5 Starting System 25 Fuse Puller
6 Body Control Module 2 27 Empty
7 Empty 28 Empty
8 Empty 29 Cigarette Lighter
9 Air Conditioning Clutch Diode 30 Power Outlet
10 Liftgate, Sunroof 31 Empty
11 Empty 32 Empty
12 Empty 33 Emissions
13 Fuel Pump 36 Empty
15 Air Conditioning Clutch 37 Power Seat (Option)
16 Empty 39 Windshield Washer Pump
17 Rear Wiper 40 Cooling Fan
18 Liftgate Release 41 Empty
19 Fuel Pump 42 Engine Control Module
20 Rear Wiper 43 Engine Control Module,
Transmission
21 Mirror
44 Anti-lock Brake System (Option)
22 Air Conditioning
5-85
Fuses Usage Fuses Usage
45 Injectors, Ignition Module 67 Passenger’s Side High Beam
46 Park, Neutral 69 Parking Lamps
47 Heated Seat, Back-up Lamps 71 Headlamp Low Beam
48 Rear Windshield Washer 72 Headlamp High Beam
49 Windshield Washer Pump
53 Fog Lamps (Option) Relays Usage
55 Horn 14 Rear Defogger Relay
56 Audio, OnStar ® 24 Empty
57 Anti-lock Brake System (Option) 26 Powertrain
58 Windshield Wiper Diode 34 Starting System
59 Windshield Wiper 35 Empty
60 Horn 38 Empty
61 Anti-lock Brake System (Option) 50 Cooling Fan
62 Instrument Panel, Ignition 51 Run, Crank
63 Driver’s Side High Beam 52 Windshield Wiper
64 Canister Vent 54 Fog Lamps (Option)
65 Driver’s Side Low Beam 68 Parking Lamps
66 Passenger’s Side Low Beam 70 Windshield Wipers
5-86
Capacities and Specifications
The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. Please refer to Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-11 for more information.
Capacities
Application
English Metric
Cooling System
2.2L Engine 7.4 qt 7.0 L
2.4L Engine 7.9 qt 7.5 L
Engine Oil with Filter 5.0 qt 4.7 L
Fuel Tank 16.2 gal 61.3 L
Transaxle, Automatic (Complete Drain and Refill) 7.0 qt 6.6 L
Transaxle, Manual (Complete Drain and Refill) 1.7 qt 1.6 L
Wheel Nut Torque 100 lb ft 140 Y
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the appropriate level, as recommended in this
manual.
Engine Specifications
Engine VIN Code Transaxle Spark Plug Gap
Automatic
2.2L L4 D 0.042 inch (1.06 mm)
Manual
Automatic
2.4L L4 P 0.042 inch (1.06 mm)
Manual
5-87
✍ NOTES
5-88
Section 6 Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule ......................................6-2 Owner Checks and Services ............................6-8
Introduction ...................................................6-2 At Each Fuel Fill ............................................6-8
Maintenance Requirements ..............................6-2 At Least Once a Month ...................................6-9
Your Vehicle and the Environment ....................6-2 At Least Once a Year .....................................6-9
Using the Maintenance Schedule ......................6-3 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...............6-11
Scheduled Maintenance ...................................6-4 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts ..........6-13
Additional Required Services ............................6-6 Maintenance Record .....................................6-14
Maintenance Footnotes ...................................6-7
6-1
Maintenance Schedule Maintenance Requirements
Notice: Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections,
Introduction replacement parts, and recommended fluids
and lubricants as prescribed in this manual are
Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and necessary to keep your vehicle in good working
change as recommended. condition. Any damage caused by failure to follow
scheduled maintenance may not be covered by
warranty.
6-2
Using the Maintenance Schedule
We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle {CAUTION:
in good working condition. But we do not know exactly
how you will drive it. You may drive very short distances
Performing maintenance work on a vehicle
only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances
all the time in very hot, dusty weather. You may use your can be dangerous. In trying to do some jobs,
vehicle in making deliveries. Or you may drive it to work, you can be seriously injured. Do your own
to do errands, or in many other ways. maintenance work only if you have the
Because of all the different ways people use their required know-how and the proper tools and
vehicles, maintenance needs vary. You may need more equipment for the job. If you have any doubt,
frequent checks and replacements. So please read see your GM Goodwrench® dealer to have a
the following and note how you drive. If you have any qualified technician do the work.
questions on how to keep your vehicle in good condition,
see your GM Goodwrench® dealer.
Some maintenance services can be complex. So, unless
This schedule is for vehicles that: you are technically qualified and have the necessary
• carry passengers and cargo within recommended equipment, you should have your GM Goodwrench®
limits. You will find these limits on the tire and dealer do these jobs.
loading information label. See Loading Your Vehicle
When you go to your GM Goodwrench® dealer for your
on page 4-32.
service needs, you will know that GM-trained and
• are driven on reasonable road surfaces within legal supported service technicians will perform the work
driving limits. using genuine GM parts.
• use the recommended fuel. See Gasoline Octane If you want to purchase service information, see Service
on page 5-5. Publications Ordering Information on page 7-14.
The services in Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4
should be performed when indicated. See Additional
Required Services on page 6-6 and Maintenance
Footnotes on page 6-7 for further information.
6-3
Owner Checks and Services on page 6-8 tells you what If the engine oil life system is ever reset accidentally,
should be checked, when to check it, and what you can you must service your vehicle within 3,000 miles
easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. (5 000 km) since your last service. Remember to reset
the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. See
The proper replacement parts, fluids, and lubricants to
Engine Oil Life System on page 5-16 for information on
use are listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
the Engine Oil Life System and resetting the system.
on page 6-11 and Normal Maintenance Replacement
Parts on page 6-13. When your vehicle is serviced, When the CHANGE OIL SOON message appears,
make sure these are used. All parts should be replaced certain services, checks, and inspections are required.
and all necessary repairs done before you or anyone Required services are described in the following for
else drives the vehicle. We recommend the use of “Maintenance I” and “Maintenance II.” Generally,
genuine GM parts. it is recommended that your first service be
Maintenance I, your second service be Maintenance II,
and that you alternate Maintenance I and Maintenance II
Scheduled Maintenance thereafter. However, in some cases, Maintenance II
When the CHANGE OIL SOON message comes on, may be required more often.
it means that service is required for your vehicle. Maintenance I — Use Maintenance I if the CHANGE
Have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible within OIL SOON message comes on within 10 months
the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if since the vehicle was purchased or Maintenance II
you are driving under the best conditions, the engine was performed.
oil life system may not indicate that vehicle service
is necessary for over a year. However, your engine Maintenance II — Use Maintenance II if the previous
oil and filter must be changed at least once a year service performed was Maintenance I. Always use
and at this time the system must be reset. Your Maintenance II whenever the CHANGE OIL SOON
GM Goodwrench® dealer has GM-trained service message comes on 10 months or more since the
technicians who will perform this work using genuine last service or if the message has not come on at all
GM parts and reset the system. for one year.
6-4
Scheduled Maintenance
Service Maintenance I Maintenance II
Change engine oil and filter. See Engine Oil on page 5-13. Reset oil life system.
• •
See Engine Oil Life System on page 5-16. An Emission Control Service.
Visually check for any leaks or damage. See footnote (j). • •
Inspect engine air cleaner filter. If necessary, replace filter. See Engine
•
Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-18. See footnote (k).
Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear. See Tire Inspection
and Rotation on page 5-52 and “Tire Wear Inspection” in At Least Once a • •
Month on page 6-9.
Inspect brake system. See footnote (a). • •
Check engine coolant and windshield washer fluid levels and add fluid
• •
as needed.
Perform any needed additional services. See “Additional Required Services”
• •
in this section.
Inspect suspension and steering components. See footnote (b). •
Inspect engine cooling system. See footnote (c). •
Inspect wiper blades. See footnote (d). •
Inspect restraint system components. See footnote (e). •
Lubricate body components. See footnote (f). •
Replace passenger compartment air filter. See footnote (l). •
Inspect throttle system. See footnote (g). •
6-5
Additional Required Services
The following services should be performed at the first maintenance service (I or II) after the indicated miles (kilometers)
shown for each item.
Additional Required Services
25,000 50,000 75,000 100,000 125,000 150,000
Service and Miles (Kilometers)
(41 500) (83 000) (125 000) (166 000) (207 500) (240 000)
Inspect fuel system for damage
• • • • • •
or leaks.
Inspect exhaust system for loose or
• • • • • •
damaged components.
Replace engine air cleaner filter. See
• • •
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-18.
Change automatic transaxle fluid
and filter (severe service only). • • •
See footnote (h).
Replace spark plugs. An Emission
•
Control Service.
Engine cooling system service (or every
five years, whichever occurs first).
•
An Emission Control Service.
See footnote (i).
Inspect engine accessory drive belt.
An Emission Control Service. •
See footnote (m).
6-6
Maintenance Footnotes Also look for any opened or broken airbag coverings, and
have them repaired or replaced. The airbag system does
(a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper not need regular maintenance.
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect (f) Lubricate all key lock cylinders, door hinges and
disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface latches, hood hinges and latches, and trunk lid hinges
condition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or and latches. More frequent lubrication may be required
cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, when exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying
wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc. silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will
(b) Visually inspect front and rear suspension and make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or
steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts squeak.
or signs of wear. Inspect power steering cables for (g) Check system for interference or binding and for
proper hook-up, binding, cracks, chafing, etc. damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed.
(c) Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if they Replace any components that have high effort or
are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator or cruise
fittings, and clamps; replace with genuine GM parts as control cables.
needed. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test (h) Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the
of the cooling system and pressure cap and cleaning the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these
outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is conditions:
recommended at least once a year.
− In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
(d) Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
Replace wiper blades that appear worn or damaged
− In hilly or mountainous terrain.
or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
− When doing frequent trailer towing.
(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all belts,
buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are − Uses such as found in taxi, police, or
working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged delivery service.
safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might If you do not use your vehicle under any of these
keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing.
repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.
6-7
(i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service At Each Fuel Fill
can be complex; you should have your dealer perform
this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-20 for It is important to perform these underhood checks
what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, at each fuel fill.
pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the
cooling system and pressure cap. Engine Oil Level Check
(j) A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and necessary. See Engine Oil on page 5-13 for further
the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed. details.
(k) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, inspect Notice: It is important to check your oil regularly
the filter at each engine oil change. and keep it at the proper level. Failure to keep your
(l) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, the filter engine oil at the proper level can cause damage
may require replacement more often. to your engine not covered by your warranty.
(m) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, Engine Coolant Level Check
or obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL®
coolant mixture if necessary. See Engine Coolant
Owner Checks and Services on page 5-20 for further details.
These owner checks and services should be performed Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety,
dependability and emission control performance of your Check the windshield washer fluid level in the
vehicle. Your GM Goodwrench® dealer can assist windshield washer fluid reservoir and add the
you with these checks and services. proper fluid if necessary.
Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your
vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown
in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-11.
6-8
At Least Once a Month At Least Once a Year
Tire Inflation Check Starter Switch Check
Visually inspect your vehicle’s tires and make sure they
are inflated to the correct pressures. Do not forget to
check the spare tire. See Tires on page 5-45 for further {CAUTION:
details. Check to make sure the spare tire is stored
securely. See Changing a Flat Tire on page 5-61. When you are doing this inspection, the
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle
Tire Wear Inspection
moves, you or others could be injured.
Tire rotation may be required for high mileage highway
drivers prior to the Engine Oil Life System service
notification. Check the tires for wear and, if necessary, 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
rotate the tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation around the vehicle.
on page 5-52. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular
brake. See Parking Brake on page 2-30.
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to
turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. On automatic transaxle vehicles, try to start the
engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in
PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the vehicle starts in
any other position, your vehicle needs service.
On manual transaxle vehicles, put the shift lever in
NEUTRAL (N), push the clutch down halfway, and try
to start the engine. The vehicle should start only
when the clutch is pushed down all the way to the
floor. If the vehicle starts when the clutch is not
pushed all the way down, your vehicle needs service.
6-9
Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock Control Ignition Transaxle Lock Check
System Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn
the ignition to LOCK in each shift lever position.
• With an automatic transaxle, the ignition should turn
{CAUTION: to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P).
The key should come out only in LOCK.
When you are doing this inspection, the • With a manual transaxle, the key should come out
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle only in LOCK.
moves, you or others could be injured.
Turn the steering wheel to the left and to the right.
It should only lock when turned to the right.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle
surface. Park (P) Mechanism Check
2. Firmly apply the parking brake. See Parking Brake
on page 2-30.
Be ready to apply the regular brake immediately if {CAUTION:
the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the ignition to RUN, but do When you are doing this check, your vehicle
not start the engine. Without applying the regular could begin to move. You or others could
brake, try to move the shift lever out of PARK (P) be injured and property could be damaged.
with normal effort. If the shift lever moves out Make sure there is room in front of your
of PARK (P), your vehicle needs service. vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to
apply the regular brake at once should the
vehicle begin to move.
6-10
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing Recommended Fluids and
downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake,
set the parking brake. Lubricants
• To check the parking brake’s holding ability: With Fluids and lubricants identified below by name,
the engine running and transaxle in NEUTRAL (N), part number, or specification may be obtained from
slowly remove foot pressure from the regular your dealer.
brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by
the parking brake only. Usage Fluid/Lubricant
• To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding Engine oil which meets GM
ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Standard GM6094M and displays
Then release the parking brake followed by the the American Petroleum Institute
regular brake. Certified for Gasoline Engines
starburst symbol. GM Goodwrench®
Engine Oil
Underbody Flushing Service oil meets all the requirements for
your vehicle. To determine the
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any proper viscosity for your vehicle’s
corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care engine, see Engine Oil on
to clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other page 5-13.
debris can collect.
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
Engine Coolant water and use only DEX-COOL®
Coolant. See Engine Coolant on
page 5-20.
Hydraulic Brake Delco® Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
System equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.
6-11
Usage Fluid/Lubricant Usage Fluid/Lubricant
®
Hydraulic Delco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or Clutch Linkage
Clutch System equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid. Pivot Points Engine Oil.
6-12
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your GM dealer.
6-13
Maintenance Record
After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and
the type of services performed in the boxes provided. See Maintenance Requirements on page 6-2. Any additional
information from Owner Checks and Services on page 6-8 can be added on the following record pages.
You should retain all maintenance receipts.
Maintenance Record
Odometer Maintenance I or
Date Serviced By Services Performed
Reading Maintenance II
6-14
Maintenance Record (cont’d)
Odometer Maintenance I or
Date Serviced By Services Performed
Reading Maintenance II
6-15
Maintenance Record (cont’d)
Odometer Maintenance I or
Date Serviced By Services Performed
Reading Maintenance II
6-16
Section 7 Customer Assistance and Information
Customer Assistance and Information ...............7-2 Reporting Safety Defects ................................7-13
Customer Satisfaction Procedure ......................7-2 Reporting Safety Defects to the
Online Owner Center ......................................7-3 United States Government ..........................7-13
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone Reporting Safety Defects to the
(TTY) Users ...............................................7-4 Canadian Government ................................7-14
Customer Assistance Offices ............................7-4 Reporting Safety Defects to
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program ................7-5 General Motors .........................................7-14
Roadside Assistance Program ..........................7-6 Service Publications Ordering Information .........7-14
Courtesy Transportation ...................................7-7
Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data
Recorders ..................................................7-9
Collision Damage Repair ................................7-10
7-1
Customer Assistance and We encourage you to call the toll-free number in order
to give your inquiry prompt attention. Please have
Information the following information available to give the Customer
Assistance Representative:
7-2
The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court program Online Owner Center
administered by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus to settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle The Owner Center is a resource for your GM ownership
repairs or the interpretation of the New Vehicle needs. Specific vehicle information can be found in
Limited Warranty. Although you may be required to one place.
resort to this informal dispute resolution program prior to
The Online Owner Center allows you to:
filing a court action, use of the program is free of
charge and your case will generally be heard within • Get e-mail service reminders.
40 days. If you do not agree with the decision given in • Access information about your specific vehicle,
your case, you may reject it and proceed with any other
including tips and videos and an electronic
venue for relief available to you.
version of this owner’s manual (United States only).
You may contact the BBB Auto Line Program using the • Keep track of your vehicle’s service history and
toll-free telephone number or write them at the maintenance schedule.
following address:
• Find GM dealers for service nationwide.
BBB Auto Line Program
Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc. • Receive special promotions and privileges only
4200 Wilson Boulevard available to members (United States only).
Suite 800
Arlington, VA 22203-1838 Refer to the web for updated information.
Telephone: 1-800-955-5100 To register your vehicle, visit www.MyGMLink.com
(United States) or My GM Canada within
This program is available in all 50 states and the www.gmcanada.com (Canada).
District of Columbia. Eligibility is limited by vehicle age,
mileage, and other factors. General Motors reserves
the right to change eligibility limitations and/or
discontinue its participation in this program.
7-3
Customer Assistance for Text United States — Customer Assistance
Telephone (TTY) Users Chevrolet Motor Division
Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center
To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or P.O. Box 33170
speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs), Detroit, MI 48232-5170
Chevrolet has TTY equipment available at its Customer 1-800-222-1020
Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate 1-800-833-2438 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs))
with Chevrolet by dialing: 1-800-833-CHEV (2438). Roadside Assistance: 1-800-CHEV-USA (243-8872)
(TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) Fax Number: 313-381-0022
From Puerto Rico:
Customer Assistance Offices 1-800-496-9992 (English)
1-800-496-9993 (Spanish)
Chevrolet encourages customers to call the toll-free Fax Number: 313-381-0022
number for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes From U.S. Virgin Islands:
to write to Chevrolet, the letter should be addressed to 1-800-496-9994
Chevrolet’s Customer Assistance Center. Fax Number: 313-381-0022
Canada — Customer Assistance
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
1-800-263-3777 (English)
1-800-263-7854 (French)
1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800
7-4
Overseas — Customer Assistance GM Mobility Reimbursement
Please contact the local General Motors Business Unit. Program
Mexico, Central America and
Caribbean Islands/Countries
(Except Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin
Islands) — Customer Assistance
General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V.
Customer Assistance Center
Paseo de la Reforma # 2740
Col. Lomas de Bezares This program, available to qualified applicants, can
C.P. 11910, Mexico, D.F. reimburse you up to $1,000 of the cost of eligible
01-800-508-0000 aftermarket adaptive equipment required for your vehicle,
Long Distance: 011-52-53 29 0 800 such as hand controls or a wheelchair/scooter lift.
The offer is available for a very limited period of time
from the date of vehicle purchase/lease. For more
details, or to determine your vehicle’s eligibility, visit
gmmobility.com or call the GM Mobility Assistance
Center at 1-800-323-9935. Text telephone (TTY) users,
call 1-800-833-9935.
GM of Canada also has a Mobility Program.
Call 1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483) for details.
TTY users call 1-800-263-3830.
7-5
Roadside Assistance Program • Flat Tire Change: Installation of a spare tire will be
covered at no charge. The customer is responsible
As the owner of a new Chevrolet vehicle, you are for the repair or replacement of the tire if not
automatically enrolled in the Chevrolet Roadside covered by a warrantable failure.
Assistance program. This value-added service is
intended to provide you with peace of mind as you drive • Jump Start: No-start occurrences which require a
in the city or travel the open road. Call Chevrolet’s battery jump start will be covered at no charge.
Roadside Assistance at 1-800-CHEV-USA, • Dealer Locator Service
(1-800-243-8872) 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
to speak with a Chevrolet Roadside Assistance In many instances, mechanical failures are covered
representative. under Chevrolet’s Bumper-to-Bumper warranty.
However, when other services are utilized, our Roadside
We will provide the following services during the Assistance Representatives will explain any payment
Bumper-to-Bumper warranty period, at no expense obligations you might incur.
to you:
For prompt and efficient assistance when calling, please
• Fuel Delivery: Delivery of enough fuel provide the following to the Roadside Assistance
($5 maximum) for the customer to get to the Representative:
nearest service station.
• Your name, home address, and home telephone
• Lock-out Service (identification required): number.
Replacement keys or locksmith service will
be covered at no charge if you are unable to gain • Telephone number of your location.
entry into your vehicle. Delivery of the replacement • Location of the vehicle.
key will be covered within 10 miles (16 km).
• Model, year, color, and license plate number.
• Emergency Tow: Tow to the nearest dealership
for warranty service or in the event of a • Mileage, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and
vehicle-disabling accident. Assistance provided delivery date of the vehicle.
when the vehicle is mired in sand, mud, or snow. • Description of the problem.
7-6
While we hope you never have the occasion to use Courtesy Transportation
our service, it is added security while traveling for
you and your family. Remember, we are only a To enhance your ownership experience, we and our
phone call away. Chevrolet Roadside Assistance: participating dealers are proud to offer Courtesy
1-800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872), text telephone Transportation, a customer support program for
(TTY) users, call 1-888-889-2438. new vehicles.
Chevrolet reserves the right to limit services or The Courtesy Transportation program is offered to
reimbursement to an owner or driver when, customers in conjunction with the Bumper-to-Bumper
in Chevrolet’s judgement, the claims become coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
excessive in frequency or type of occurrence. Several transportation options are available when
warranty repairs are required. This will reduce your
Roadside Assistance is not part of or included in the inconvenience during warranty repairs.
coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Chevrolet reserves the right to make any changes or Scheduling Service Appointments
discontinue the Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification. When your vehicle requires warranty service, you should
contact your dealer and request an appointment. By
Canadian Roadside Assistance scheduling a service appointment and advising
your service consultant of your transportation needs,
Vehicles purchased in Canada have an extensive your dealer can help minimize your inconvenience.
roadside assistance program accessible from anywhere
in Canada or the United States. Please refer to the If your vehicle cannot be scheduled into the service
Warranty and Owner Assistance Information book. department immediately, keep driving it until it can be
scheduled for service, unless, of course, the problem is
safety-related. If it is, please call your dealership, let
them know this, and ask for instructions.
If the dealer requests that you simply drop the vehicle off
for service, you are urged to do so as early in the work
day as possible to allow for the same day repair.
7-7
Transportation Options Courtesy Rental Vehicle
Warranty service can generally be completed while you Your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy
wait. However, if you are unable to wait, GM helps rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle
to minimize your inconvenience by providing several that you obtain if your vehicle is kept for a warranty
transportation options. Depending on the circumstances, repair. Reimbursement will be limited to a maximum
your dealer can offer you one of the following: amount per day and must be supported by receipts.
This requires that you sign and complete a rental
Shuttle Service agreement and meet state, local and rental vehicle
provider requirements. Requirements vary and
Participating dealers can provide you with shuttle
may include minimum age requirements, insurance
service to get you to your destination with minimal
coverage, credit card, etc. You are responsible for fuel
interruption of your daily schedule. This includes
usage charges and may also be responsible for
one-way or round trip shuttle service to a destination
taxes, levies, usage fees, excessive mileage or rental
up to 10 miles (16 km) from the dealership.
usage beyond the completion of the repair.
Public Transportation or Fuel Generally it is not possible to provide a like-vehicle
Reimbursement as a courtesy rental.
If your vehicle requires overnight warranty repairs,
reimbursement of public transportation expenses
may be available, for up to a maximum of five days.
In addition, should you arrange transportation through a
friend or relative, reimbursement for reasonable fuel
expenses may be available, up to a five-day maximum.
Claim amounts should reflect actual costs and be
supported by original receipts.
7-8
Additional Program Information Vehicle Data Collection and
Courtesy Transportation is available during the Event Data Recorders
Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period,
but it is not part of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Your vehicle, like other modern motor vehicles, has a
A separate booklet entitled Warranty and Owner number of sophisticated computer systems that monitor
Assistance Information furnished with each new vehicle and control several aspects of the vehicle’s performance.
provides detailed warranty coverage information. Your vehicle uses on-board vehicle computers to monitor
emission control components to optimize fuel economy,
Courtesy Transportation is available only at participating to monitor conditions for airbag deployment and, if so
dealers and all program options, such as shuttle equipped, to provide anti-lock braking and to help the
service, may not be available at every dealer. Please driver control the vehicle in difficult driving situations.
contact your dealer for specific information about Some information may be stored during regular
availability. All Courtesy Transportation arrangements operations to facilitate repair of detected malfunctions;
will be administered by appropriate dealer personnel. other information is stored only in a crash event by
Canadian Vehicles: For warranty repairs during the computer systems, such as those commonly called
Complete Vehicle Coverage period of the General event data recorders (EDR).
Motors of Canada New Vehicle Limited Warranty, In a crash event, computer systems, such as the Airbag
alternative transportation may be available under the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) in your vehicle
Courtesy Transportation Program. Please consult may record information about the condition of the vehicle
your dealer for details. and how it was operated, such as data related to engine
General Motors reserves the right to unilaterally modify, speed, brake application, throttle position, vehicle speed,
change or discontinue Courtesy Transportation at safety belt usage, airbag readiness, airbag performance,
any time and to resolve all questions of claim eligibility and the severity of a collision. This information has been
pursuant to the terms and conditions described used to improve vehicle crash performance and may be
herein at its sole discretion. used to improve crash performance of future vehicles
and driving safety. Unlike the data recorders on many
airplanes, these on-board systems do not record sounds,
such as conversation of vehicle occupants.
7-9
To read this information, special equipment is needed Collision Damage Repair
and access to the vehicle or the device that stores
the data is required. GM will not access information If your vehicle is involved in a collision and it is
about a crash event or share it with others other than: damaged, have the damage repaired by a qualified
• with the consent of the vehicle owner or, if the technician using the proper equipment and quality
vehicle is leased, with the consent of the lessee, replacement parts. Poorly performed collision repairs
will diminish your vehicle’s resale value, and safety
• in response to an official request of police or similar performance can be compromised in subsequent
government office, collisions.
• as part of GM’s defense of litigation through the
discovery process, or Collision Parts
• as required by law. Genuine GM Collision parts are new parts made with
In addition, once GM collects or receives data, GM may: the same materials and construction methods as
• use the data for GM research needs, the parts with which your vehicle was originally built.
Genuine GM Collision parts are your best choice
• make it available for research where appropriate to assure that your vehicle’s designed appearance,
confidentiality is to be maintained and need is
durability and safety are preserved. The use of
shown, or Genuine GM parts can help maintain your GM New
• share summary data which is not tied to a specific Vehicle Warranty.
vehicle with non-GM organizations for research
purposes. Recycled original equipment parts may also be used for
repair. These parts are typically removed from vehicles
Others, such as law enforcement, may have access to that were total losses in prior accidents. In most
the special equipment that can read the information cases, the parts being recycled are from undamaged
if they have access to the vehicle or the device sections of the vehicle. A recycled original equipment
that stores the data. GM part, may be an acceptable choice to maintain your
If your vehicle is equipped with OnStar®, please check
the OnStar® subscription service agreement or manual
for information on its operations and data collection.
7-10
vehicle’s originally designed appearance and safety Insuring Your Vehicle
performance, however, the history of these parts is not
known. Such parts are not covered by your GM New Protect your investment in your GM vehicle with
Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any related failures comprehensive and collision insurance coverage.
are not covered by that warranty. There are significant differences in the quality of
coverage afforded by various insurance policy terms.
Aftermarket collision parts are also available. These are Many insurance policies provide reduced protection
made by companies other than GM and may not have to your GM vehicle by limiting compensation for
been tested for your vehicle. As a result, these parts may damage repairs by using aftermarket collision parts.
fit poorly, exhibit premature durability/corrosion problems, Some insurance companies will not specify
and may not perform properly in subsequent collisions. aftermarket collision parts. When purchasing insurance,
Aftermarket parts are not covered by your GM New we recommend that you assure your vehicle will be
Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any vehicle failure related repaired with GM original equipment collision parts.
to such parts are not covered by that warranty. If such insurance coverage is not available from your
Repair Facility current insurance carrier, consider switching to another
insurance carrier.
GM also recommends that you choose a collision repair If your vehicle is leased, the leasing company may
facility that meets your needs before you ever need require you to have insurance that assures repairs with
collision repairs. Your GM dealer may have a collision Genuine GM Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
repair center with GM-trained technicians and state parts or Genuine Manufacturer replacement parts.
of the art equipment, or be able to recommend a Read your lease carefully, as you may be charged at
collision repair center that has GM-trained technicians the end of your lease for poor quality repairs.
and comparable equipment.
7-11
If an Accident Occurs • Gather the important information you will need from
the other driver. Things like name, address, phone
Here is what to do if you are involved in an accident. number, driver’s license number, vehicle license
• Try to relax and then check to make sure you are all plate, vehicle make, model and model year, Vehicle
right. If you are uninjured, make sure that no one else Identification Number (VIN), insurance company and
in your vehicle, or the other vehicle, is injured. policy number, and a general description of the
• If there has been an injury, call 911 for help. Do not damage to the other vehicle.
leave the scene of an accident until all matters have • If possible, call your insurance company from the
been taken care of. Move your vehicle only if its scene of the accident. They will walk you through the
position puts you in danger or you are instructed to information they will need. If they ask for a police
move it by a police officer. report, phone or go to the police department
• Give only the necessary and requested information headquarters the next day and you can get a copy of
to police and other parties involved in the accident. the report for a nominal fee. In some states with “no
Do not discuss your personal condition, mental frame fault” insurance laws, a report may not be necessary.
of mind, or anything unrelated to the accident. This This is especially true if there are no injuries and both
will help guard against post-accident legal action. vehicles are driveable.
• If you need roadside assistance, call GM Roadside • Choose a reputable collision repair facility for your
Assistance. See Roadside Assistance Program on vehicle. Whether you select a GM dealer or a private
page 7-6 for more information. collision repair facility to fix the damage, make sure
you are comfortable with them. Remember, you will
• If your vehicle cannot be driven, know where the have to feel comfortable with their work for a
towing service will be taking it. Get a card from the long time.
tow truck operator or write down the driver’s name,
the service’s name, and the phone number. • Once you have an estimate, read it carefully and
• Remove any valuables from your vehicle before it is make sure you understand what work will be
performed on your vehicle. If you have a question,
towed away. Make sure this includes your insurance
ask for an explanation. Reputable shops welcome
information and registration if you keep these items
this opportunity.
in your vehicle.
7-12
Managing the Vehicle Damage Reporting Safety Defects
Repair Process
In the event that your vehicle requires damage repairs, Reporting Safety Defects to the
GM recommends that you take an active role in its
repair. If you have a pre-determined repair facility of
United States Government
choice, take your vehicle there, or have it towed there. If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
Specify to the facility that any required replacement could cause a crash or could cause injury or death,
collision parts be original equipment parts, either new you should immediately inform the National Highway
Genuine GM parts or recycled original GM parts. Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition
Remember, recycled parts will not be covered by your to notifying General Motors.
GM vehicle warranty.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an
Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you must live investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in
with the repair. Depending on your policy limits, your a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy
insurance company may initially value the repair using campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved
aftermarket parts. Discuss this with your repair in individual problems between you, your dealer, or
professional, and insist on Genuine GM parts. General Motors.
Remember if your vehicle is leased you may be
obligated to have the vehicle repaired with Genuine To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety
GM parts, even if your insurance coverage does not Hotline toll-free at 1-800-424-9393 (or 366-0123 in
pay the full cost. the Washington, D.C. area) or write to:
If another party’s insurance company is paying for the NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation
repairs, you are not obligated to accept a repair Washington, D.C. 20590
valuation based on that insurance company’s collision You can also obtain other information about motor
policy repair limits, as you have no contractual limits with vehicle safety from the hotline.
that company. In such cases, you can have control of
the repair and parts choices as long as cost stays within
reasonable limits.
7-13
Reporting Safety Defects to the In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English)
or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:
Canadian Government General Motors of Canada Limited
If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
has a safety defect, you should immediately notify 1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Motors of Canada Limited. You may call them at
1-800-333-0510 or write to: Service Publications Ordering
Transport Canada Information
Place de Ville Tower C
330 Sparks Street Service Manuals
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0N5
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair
Reporting Safety Defects to information on engines, transmission, axle suspension,
brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc.
General Motors
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in
a situation like this, we certainly hope you will notify Case Unit Repair Manual
General Motors. Please call the Chevrolet Customer This manual provides information on unit repair service
Assistance Center at 1-800-222-1020, or write: procedures, adjustments, and specifications for
Chevrolet Motor Division GM transmissions, transaxles, and transfer cases.
Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33170
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
7-14
Service Bulletins Current and Past Model Order Forms
Service Bulletins give technical service information Service Publications are available for current and
needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars past model GM vehicles. To request an order form,
and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to please specify year and model name of the vehicle.
assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle.
ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123
In Canada, information pertaining to Product Service
Bulletins can be obtained by contacting your General
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Motors dealer or by calling 1-800-GM-DRIVE Eastern Time
(1-800-463-7483). For Credit Card Orders Only
(VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit Helm, Inc. on the
Owner’s Information World Wide Web at: www.helminc.com
Owner publications are written specifically for owners Or you can write to:
and intended to provide basic operational information
about the vehicle. The owner’s manual will include Helm, Incorporated
the Maintenance Schedule for all models. P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner’s Manual, and
Prices are subject to change without notice and without
Warranty Booklet.
incurring obligation. Allow ample time for delivery.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00
Note to Canadian Customers: All listed prices are
Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only. quoted in U.S. funds. Canadian residents are to make
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25.00 checks payable in U.S. funds.
7-15
✍ NOTES
7-16
A Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ........................... 4-7
Anti-Lock Brake, System Warning Light .............. 3-33
Accessories and Modifications ............................ 5-3 Appearance Care
Accessory Power Outlet(s) ............................... 3-18 Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels .............. 5-78
Adding Equipment to Your Chemical Paint Spotting ............................... 5-79
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ............................... 1-70 Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses .................... 5-77
Additives, Fuel ................................................. 5-6 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle ................ 5-74
Add-On Electrical Equipment ............................ 5-82 Fabric/Carpet .............................................. 5-75
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine ................................. 5-18 Finish Care ................................................. 5-77
Air Conditioning .............................................. 3-19 Finish Damage ............................................ 5-79
Airbag Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic
Passenger Status Indicator ........................... 3-29 Surfaces ................................................. 5-76
Readiness Light .......................................... 3-28 Sheet Metal Damage ................................... 5-79
Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) ......... 7-9 Tires .......................................................... 5-79
Airbag System ................................................ 1-56 Underbody Maintenance ............................... 5-79
Adding Equipment to Your Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ................ 5-80
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle ............................ 1-70 Washing Your Vehicle ................................... 5-76
How Does an Airbag Restrain? ...................... 1-62 Weatherstrips .............................................. 5-76
Passenger Sensing System ........................... 1-64 Windshield and Wiper Blades ........................ 5-77
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle .......... 1-70 Ashtray(s) ...................................................... 3-18
What Makes an Airbag Inflate? ...................... 1-62 Audio System(s) ............................................. 3-50
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? ........ 1-63 Audio Steering Wheel Controls ...................... 3-72
When Should an Airbag Inflate? .................... 1-61 Care of Your CD Player ............................... 3-74
Where Are the Airbags? ............................... 1-58 Care of Your CDs ........................................ 3-74
Antenna, Fixed Mast ....................................... 3-74 Fixed Mast Antenna ..................................... 3-74
Antenna, XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna Radio with CD .................................... 3-52, 3-57
System ...................................................... 3-74
1
Audio System(s) (cont.) Bulb Replacement ........................................... 5-40
Setting the Time .................................. 3-51, 3-52 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) ........ 5-42
Theft-Deterrent Feature ................................ 3-72 Halogen Bulbs ............................................ 5-40
Understanding Radio Reception ..................... 3-73 Headlamp Aiming ........................................ 5-38
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ............ 3-74 Headlamps, Front Turn Signal,
Automatic Door Lock ....................................... 2-11 and Parking Lamps .................................. 5-41
Automatic Headlamp System ............................ 3-15 Replacement Bulbs ...................................... 5-44
Automatic Transaxle Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and
Fluid .......................................................... 5-19 Back-up Lamps ........................................ 5-43
Operation ................................................... 2-26 Buying New Tires ........................................... 5-54
B C
Battery .......................................................... 5-32 California Fuel .................................................. 5-6
Run-Down Protection ................................... 3-17 California Proposition 65 Warning ....................... 5-3
Before Leaving on a Long Trip ......................... 4-23 Canadian Owners ................................................ ii
Brake Capacities and Specifications ............................ 5-87
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) ........................ 4-7 Carbon Monoxide ................... 2-13, 2-34, 4-26, 4-39
Emergencies ................................................ 4-9 Care of
Parking ...................................................... 2-30 Your CD Player ........................................... 3-74
System Warning Light .................................. 3-32 Your CDs ................................................... 3-74
Brakes .......................................................... 5-30 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) ........... 5-42
Braking ........................................................... 4-6 Chains, Tire ................................................... 5-59
Braking in Emergencies ..................................... 4-9 Charging System Light .................................... 3-31
Break-In, New Vehicle ..................................... 2-20
2
Check Cleaning (cont.)
Engine Light ............................................... 3-35 Weatherstrips .............................................. 5-76
Checking Things Under the Hood ...................... 5-10 Windshield and Wiper Blades ........................ 5-77
Chemical Paint Spotting ................................... 5-79 Climate Control System ................................... 3-19
Child Restraints Air Filter, Passenger Compartment ................. 3-22
Child Restraint Systems ............................... 1-37 Outlet Adjustment ........................................ 3-22
Infants and Young Children ........................... 1-34 Clutch, Hydraulic ............................................. 5-20
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Collision Damage Repair .................................. 7-10
Children .................................................. 1-43 Comfort Guides, Rear Safety Belt ..................... 1-29
Older Children ............................................. 1-32 Compact Spare Tire ........................................ 5-73
Securing a Child Restraint in a Content Theft-Deterrent .................................... 2-16
Rear Seat Position ................................... 1-49 Control of a Vehicle .......................................... 4-6
Securing a Child Restraint in the Convenience Net ............................................ 2-46
Right Front Seat Position .......................... 1-51 Coolant
Where to Put the Restraint ........................... 1-41 Engine Temperature Gage ............................ 3-35
Cigarette Lighter ............................................. 3-18 Engine Temperature Warning Light ................. 3-34
Cleaning Heater, Engine ............................................ 2-25
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels .............. 5-78 Cooling System .............................................. 5-25
Exterior Lamps/Lenses ................................. 5-77 Cruise Control ................................................ 3-11
Fabric/Carpet .............................................. 5-75 Cupholder(s) .................................................. 2-43
Finish Care ................................................. 5-77 Customer Assistance Information
Inside of Your Vehicle .................................. 5-74 Courtesy Transportation .................................. 7-7
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Customer Assistance for Text
Plastic Surfaces ....................................... 5-76 Telephone (TTY) Users ............................... 7-4
Tires .......................................................... 5-79 Customer Assistance Offices ........................... 7-4
Underbody Maintenance ............................... 5-79 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ..................... 7-2
Washing Your Vehicle ................................... 5-76
3
Customer Assistance Information (cont.) Driver Information Center (DIC) ......................... 3-40
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program ............... 7-5 DIC Operation and Displays .......................... 3-41
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors ....... 7-14 DIC Vehicle Personalization .......................... 3-45
Reporting Safety Defects to the DIC Warnings and Messages ........................ 3-42
Canadian Government .............................. 7-14 Driving
Reporting Safety Defects to the At Night ..................................................... 4-17
United States Government ......................... 7-13 City ........................................................... 4-21
Roadside Assistance Program ......................... 7-6 Defensive ..................................................... 4-2
Service Publications Ordering Information ........ 7-14 Drunken ....................................................... 4-3
Freeway ..................................................... 4-22
Hill and Mountain Roads .............................. 4-24
D In Rain and on Wet Roads ........................... 4-19
Daytime Running Lamps .................................. 3-15 Rocking Your Vehicle to Get it Out ................. 4-31
Defensive Driving ............................................. 4-2 Winter ........................................................ 4-26
Delayed Locking ............................................. 2-11
Doing Your Own Service Work ........................... 5-4
Dome Lamp ................................................... 3-17
Door
E
Electrical System
Automatic Door Lock .................................... 2-11 Add-On Equipment ...................................... 5-82
Delayed Locking .......................................... 2-11 Engine Compartment Fuse Block ................... 5-84
Locks ........................................................ 2-10 Floor Console Fuse Block ............................. 5-83
Power Door Locks ....................................... 2-10 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ........................... 5-82
Programmable Automatic Door Unlock ............ 2-11 Headlamp Wiring ......................................... 5-82
Rear Door Security Locks ............................. 2-12 Power Windows and Other Power Options ...... 5-82
Driver Windshield Wiper Fuses ............................... 5-82
Position, Safety Belt ..................................... 1-18
Seat Height Adjuster ...................................... 1-3
Six-Way Power Seat ...................................... 1-3
4
Engine Flash-to-Pass ................................................... 3-8
Air Cleaner/Filter ......................................... 5-18 Flat Tire ........................................................ 5-60
Battery ....................................................... 5-32 Flat Tire, Changing ......................................... 5-61
Check and Service Engine Soon Light ............ 3-35 Flat Tire, Storing ............................................. 5-70
Coolant ...................................................... 5-20 Fluid
Coolant Heater ............................................ 2-25 Automatic Transaxle ..................................... 5-19
Coolant Temperature Gage ........................... 3-35 Manual Transaxle ........................................ 5-19
Coolant Temperature Warning Light ................ 3-34 Windshield Washer ...................................... 5-29
Engine Compartment Overview ...................... 5-12 Fog Lamp Light .............................................. 3-39
Exhaust ..................................................... 2-34 Fog Lamps .................................................... 3-16
Oil ............................................................. 5-13 Folding Rear Seat ........................................... 1-10
Oil Life System ........................................... 5-16 Folding Seatback, Passenger ............................. 1-8
Overheating ................................................ 5-23 Front Console Storage Area ............................. 2-43
Starting ...................................................... 2-23 Fuel ............................................................... 5-5
Enhanced Traction System (ETS) ...................... 4-10 Additives ...................................................... 5-6
Warning Light ............................................. 3-34 California Fuel .............................................. 5-6
Entry/Exit Lighting ........................................... 3-17 Filling a Portable Fuel Container .................... 5-10
Event Data Recorders (EDR) ............................. 7-9 Filling Your Tank ........................................... 5-8
Extender, Safety Belt ....................................... 1-31 Fuels in Foreign Countries .............................. 5-7
Gage ......................................................... 3-40
Gasoline Octane ........................................... 5-5
F Gasoline Specifications .................................. 5-5
Fuses
Filter
Engine Compartment Fuse Block ................... 5-84
Engine Air Cleaner ...................................... 5-18
Floor Console Fuse Block ............................. 5-83
Finish Damage ............................................... 5-79
Fuses and Circuit Breakers ........................... 5-82
Fixed Mast Antenna ........................................ 3-74
Windshield Wiper ......................................... 5-82
5
G Headlamps (cont.)
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal, and
Gage Parking Lamps ......................................... 5-41
Engine Coolant Temperature ......................... 3-35 High/Low Beam Changer ................................ 3-8
Fuel .......................................................... 3-40 On Reminder .............................................. 3-15
Speedometer .............................................. 3-26 Wiper Activated ........................................... 3-14
Tachometer ................................................. 3-26 Heated Seats ................................................... 1-4
Gasoline Heater ........................................................... 3-19
Octane ........................................................ 5-5 Height Adjuster, Driver Seat ............................... 1-3
Specifications ............................................... 5-5 Highbeam On Light ......................................... 3-39
Glove Box ..................................................... 2-43 Highway Hypnosis ........................................... 4-24
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program .................. 7-5 Hill and Mountain Roads .................................. 4-24
Hood
Checking Things Under ................................ 5-10
H Release ..................................................... 5-11
Horn ............................................................... 3-6
Hazard Warning Flashers ................................... 3-6
Head Restraints ............................................... 1-7 How to Use This Manual ...................................... ii
Headlamp How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ................... 1-18
Aiming ....................................................... 5-38 Hydraulic Clutch ............................................. 5-20
Headlamp Wiring ............................................ 5-82
Headlamps .................................................... 3-14
Automatic Headlamp System ......................... 3-15 I
Bulb Replacement ....................................... 5-40 Ignition Positions ............................................. 2-20
Daytime Running Lamps ............................... 3-15 Infants and Young Children, Restraints ............... 1-34
Flash-to-Pass ............................................... 3-8 Inflation -- Tire Pressure .................................. 5-51
Halogen Bulbs ............................................ 5-40
6
Instrument Panel LATCH System
Overview ..................................................... 3-4 Child Restraints ........................................... 1-43
Storage Area .............................................. 2-43 Liftgate .......................................................... 2-13
Instrument Panel (I/P) Light
Brightness .................................................. 3-16 Airbag Readiness ........................................ 3-28
Cluster ....................................................... 3-25 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ................... 3-33
Brake System Warning ................................. 3-32
Charging System ......................................... 3-31
J Engine Coolant Temperature Warning ............. 3-34
Jump Starting ................................................. 5-33 Enhanced Traction System (ETS)
Warning Light .......................................... 3-34
Fog Lamp .................................................. 3-39
K Highbeam On .............................................
Malfunction Indicator ....................................
3-39
3-35
Keyless Entry System ....................................... 2-5 Oil Pressure ............................................... 3-38
Keys ............................................................... 2-3 Passenger Airbag Status Indicator .................. 3-29
Passenger Safety Belt Reminder .................... 3-27
L Safety Belt Reminder ...................................
Security .....................................................
3-27
3-39
Labeling, Tire Sidewall ..................................... 5-46 Up-Shift ..................................................... 3-32
Lamps Lighting
Battery Run-Down Protection ......................... 3-17 Entry/Exit ................................................... 3-17
Dome ........................................................ 3-17 Loading Your Vehicle ....................................... 4-32
Fog ........................................................... 3-16 Lockout Protection .......................................... 2-12
Mirror Reading ............................................ 3-17
Rear Reading ............................................. 3-17
7
Locks Maintenance Schedule (cont.)
Automatic Door Lock .................................... 2-11 Scheduled Maintenance ................................. 6-4
Delayed Locking .......................................... 2-11 Using .......................................................... 6-3
Door .......................................................... 2-10 Your Vehicle and the Environment ................... 6-2
Lockout Protection ....................................... 2-12 Malfunction Indicator Light ................................ 3-35
Power Door ................................................ 2-10 Manual Seats ................................................... 1-2
Programmable Automatic Door Unlock ............ 2-11 Manual Transaxle
Rear Door Security Locks ............................. 2-12 Fluid .......................................................... 5-19
Loss of Control ............................................... 4-16 Operation ................................................... 2-28
Lumbar Message
Power Controls ............................................. 1-4 DIC Warnings and Messages ........................ 3-42
Mirror Reading Lamps ..................................... 3-17
Mirrors
M Automatic Dimming Rearview with OnStar® and
Compass ................................................ 2-36
Maintenance Schedule
Automatic Dimming Rearview with OnStar®,
Additional Required Services ........................... 6-6
Compass and Temperature Display .............. 2-38
At Each Fuel Fill ........................................... 6-8
Manual Rearview Mirror ................................ 2-36
At Least Once a Month .................................. 6-9
Outside Convex Mirror ................................. 2-40
At Least Once a Year .................................... 6-9
Outside Power Mirrors .................................. 2-40
Introduction .................................................. 6-2
MyGMLink.com ................................................ 7-3
Maintenance Footnotes .................................. 6-7
Maintenance Record .................................... 6-14
Maintenance Requirements ............................. 6-2
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts ......... 6-13 N
Owner Checks and Services ........................... 6-8 New Vehicle Break-In ...................................... 2-20
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ............. 6-11 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts ............ 6-13
8
O Parking
Brake ........................................................ 2-30
Odometer ...................................................... 3-26 Over Things That Burn ................................. 2-34
Off-Road Recovery .......................................... 4-14 Parking Your Vehicle ....................................... 2-33
Oil Passenger Airbag Status Indicator ..................... 3-29
Engine ....................................................... 5-13 Passenger Compartment Air Filter ..................... 3-22
Pressure Light ............................................. 3-38 Passenger Sensing System .............................. 1-64
Oil, Engine Oil Life System .............................. 5-16 Passing ......................................................... 4-14
Older Children, Restraints ................................ 1-32 PASS-Key® III+ .............................................. 2-18
Online Owner Center ........................................ 7-3 PASS-Key® III+ Operation ................................ 2-18
OnStar® System, see OnStar® Manual ............... 2-41 Power ............................................................. 1-3
Other Warning Devices ...................................... 3-6 Accessory Outlet(s) ...................................... 3-18
Outlet Adjustment ............................................ 3-22 Door Locks ................................................. 2-10
Outside Electrical System ......................................... 5-82
Convex Mirror ............................................. 2-40 Lumbar Controls ........................................... 1-4
Power Mirrors ............................................. 2-40 Retained Accessory (RAP) ............................ 2-23
Owner Checks and Services .............................. 6-8 Windows .................................................... 2-15
Owners, Canadian ............................................... ii Pressure Cap ................................................. 5-23
Pretensioners, Safety Belt ................................ 1-31
Programmable Automatic Door Unlock ............... 2-11
P
Park (P)
Shifting Into ................................................ 2-31 Q
Shifting Out of ............................................ 2-33 Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ......... 1-17
9
R Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the
Spare Tire .................................................. 5-64
Radios .......................................................... 3-50 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ................... 5-62
Care of Your CD Player ............................... 3-74 Replacement Bulbs ......................................... 5-44
Care of Your CDs ........................................ 3-74 Reporting Safety Defects
Radio with CD .................................... 3-52, 3-57 Canadian Government .................................. 7-14
Setting the Time .................................. 3-51, 3-52 General Motors ........................................... 7-14
Theft-Deterrent ............................................ 3-72 United States Government ............................ 7-13
Understanding Reception .............................. 3-73 Restraint System Check
Rear Compartment Storage Panel/Cover ............ 2-44 Checking the Restraint Systems .................... 1-71
Rear Door Security Locks ................................ 2-12 Replacing Restraint System Parts
Rear Reading Lamps ...................................... 3-17 After a Crash .......................................... 1-72
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ...................... 1-29 Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...................... 2-23
Rear Seat Passengers, Safety Belts .................. 1-26 Right Front Passenger Position, Safety Belts ...... 1-26
Rear Storage Area .......................................... 2-43 Roadside
Rear Windshield Washer/Wiper ......................... 3-10 Assistance Program ....................................... 7-6
Rearview Mirror, Automatic Dimming with Rocking Your Vehicle to Get it Out .................... 4-31
Compass .................................................... 2-36 Roof Rack System .......................................... 2-46
Rearview Mirror, Automatic Dimming with Running the Engine While Parked ..................... 2-35
Compass and Temperature Display ................ 2-38
Rearview Mirrors ............................................. 2-36
Reclining Seatbacks .......................................... 1-5
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ................. 6-11
S
Recreational Vehicle Towing ............................. 4-37 Safety Belt
Remote Keyless Entry System ............................ 2-5 Passenger Reminder Light ............................ 3-27
Remote Keyless Entry System, Operation ............ 2-6 Pretensioners .............................................. 1-31
Reminder Light ............................................ 3-27
10
Safety Belts Security Light ................................................. 3-39
Driver Position ............................................ 1-18 Service ........................................................... 5-3
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ................ 1-18 Accessories and Modifications ......................... 5-3
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ........ 1-17 Adding Equipment to the Outside of
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides ................... 1-29 Your Vehicle .............................................. 5-4
Rear Seat Passengers ................................. 1-26 California Proposition 65 Warning .................... 5-3
Right Front Passenger Position ...................... 1-26 Doing Your Own Work ................................... 5-4
Safety Belt Extender .................................... 1-31 Engine Soon Light ....................................... 3-35
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ................. 1-26 Publications Ordering Information ................... 7-14
Safety Belts Are for Everyone ....................... 1-13 Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle .............. 1-70
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster ........................ 1-25 Setting the Time ..................................... 3-51, 3-52
Safety Warnings and Symbols .............................. iii Sheet Metal Damage ....................................... 5-79
Scheduled Maintenance ..................................... 6-4 Shifting Into Park (P) ....................................... 2-31
Seatback, Folding Passenger ............................. 1-8 Shifting Out of Park (P) ................................... 2-33
Seats Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster ........................... 1-25
Driver Seat Height Adjuster ............................. 1-3 Signals, Turn and Lane-Change .......................... 3-7
Head Restraints ............................................ 1-7 Spare Tire
Heated Seats ............................................... 1-4 Compact .................................................... 5-73
Manual ........................................................ 1-2 Installing .................................................... 5-64
Passenger Folding Seatback ........................... 1-8 Removing ................................................... 5-62
Power Lumbar .............................................. 1-4 Storing ....................................................... 5-70
Reclining Seatbacks ...................................... 1-5 Specifications, Capacities ................................. 5-87
Six-Way Power Driver .................................... 1-3 Speedometer .................................................. 3-26
Split Folding Rear Seat ................................ 1-10 Split Folding Rear Seat .................................... 1-10
Securing a Child Restraint Starting Your Engine ....................................... 2-23
Rear Seat Position ...................................... 1-49 Steering ........................................................ 4-11
Right Front Seat Position .............................. 1-51 Steering Wheel Controls, Audio ......................... 3-72
11
Steering Wheel, Tilt Wheel ................................. 3-6 Tires ............................................................. 5-45
Storage Areas Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels,
Convenience Net ......................................... 2-46 Cleaning ................................................. 5-78
Cupholder(s) ............................................... 2-43 Buying New Tires ........................................ 5-54
Floor Console Storage Area .......................... 2-43 Chains ....................................................... 5-59
Glove Box .................................................. 2-43 Changing a Flat Tire .................................... 5-61
Instrument Panel Storage Area ...................... 2-43 Cleaning .................................................... 5-79
Rear Compartment Storage Panel/Cover ......... 2-44 Compact Spare Tire ..................................... 5-73
Rear Storage Area ....................................... 2-43 Different Size .............................................. 5-55
Roof Rack System ....................................... 2-46 If a Tire Goes Flat ....................................... 5-60
Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow ...................... 4-30 Inflation -- Tire Pressure ............................... 5-51
Sun Visors ..................................................... 2-16 Inspection and Rotation ................................ 5-52
Sunroof ......................................................... 2-47 Installing the Spare Tire ................................ 5-64
Removing the Flat Tire ................................. 5-64
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ............... 5-62
T Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools ............
Tire Sidewall Labeling ..................................
5-70
5-46
Tachometer .................................................... 3-26
Tire Terminology and Definitions .................... 5-48
Taillamps
Uniform Tire Quality Grading ......................... 5-56
Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps ...... 5-43
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ................. 5-57
Theft-Deterrent, Radio ..................................... 3-72
Wheel Replacement ..................................... 5-58
Theft-Deterrent Systems ................................... 2-16
When It Is Time for New Tires ...................... 5-53
Content Theft-Deterrent ................................ 2-16
Towing
PASS-Key® III+ ........................................... 2-18
Recreational Vehicle ..................................... 4-37
PASS-Key® III+ Operation ............................. 2-18
Towing a Trailer .......................................... 4-39
Tilt Wheel ........................................................ 3-6
Your Vehicle ............................................... 4-37
12
Traction Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data
Enhanced Traction System (ETS) ................... 4-10 Recorders .................................................... 7-9
Enhanced Traction System (ETS) Warning Vehicle Identification
Light ...................................................... 3-34 Number (VIN) ............................................. 5-81
Transaxle Service Parts Identification Label ................... 5-81
Fluid, Automatic ........................................... 5-19 Vehicle Personalization
Fluid, Manual .............................................. 5-19 DIC ........................................................... 3-45
Transaxle Operation, Automatic ......................... 2-26 Ventilation Adjustment ...................................... 3-22
Transaxle Operation, Manual ............................ 2-28 Visors ........................................................... 2-16
Transmission
Up-Shift Light .............................................. 3-32
Turn and Lane-Change Signals .......................... 3-7
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever ........................... 3-7
W
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators ................ 3-24
Warnings
U DIC Warnings and Messages ........................ 3-42
Hazard Warning Flashers ............................... 3-6
Understanding Radio Reception ........................ 3-73 Other Warning Devices .................................. 3-6
Uniform Tire Quality Grading ............................ 5-56 Safety and Symbols ......................................... iii
Up-Shift Light ................................................. 3-32 Vehicle Damage .............................................. iv
Wheels
Alignment and Tire Balance .......................... 5-57
V Different Size .............................................. 5-55
Vehicle Replacement ............................................... 5-58
Control ........................................................ 4-6 Where to Put the Restraint ............................... 1-41
Damage Warnings ........................................... iv Windows ....................................................... 2-14
Loading ...................................................... 4-32 Power ........................................................ 2-15
Parking Your ............................................... 2-33
Symbols ......................................................... iv
13
Windshield
Wiper Blades, Cleaning ................................ 5-77 X
Windshield, Rear Washer/Wiper ........................ 3-10 XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System ................ 3-74
Windshield Washer ........................................... 3-9
Fluid .......................................................... 5-29
Windshield Wiper
Blade Replacement ...................................... 5-44
Y
Your Vehicle and the Environment ....................... 6-2
Fuses ........................................................ 5-82
Windshield Wipers ......................................... 3-8
Winter Driving ................................................ 4-26
Wiper Activated Headlamps .............................. 3-14
14