2007 Chevrolet Impala Owner Manual M
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This manual describes features that may be
available in this model, but your vehicle may not
have all of them. For example, more than one
entertainment system may be offered or your
vehicle may have been ordered without a front
passenger or rear seats.
Keep this manual in the vehicle, so it will be there
if it is needed while you are on the road. If the
vehicle is sold, leave this manual in the vehicle.
GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem,
CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem,
the IMPALA Emblem, and the name IMPALA are
registered trademarks of General Motors
Corporation.
Canadian Owners
A French language copy of this manual can be
obtained from your dealer or from:
This manual includes the latest information at the
time it was printed. We reserve the right to
make changes after that time without further
notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute
the name “General Motors of Canada Limited”
for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever it appears
in this manual.
Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 15863014 A First Printing
©2006 General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.
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How to Use This Manual
{CAUTION:
Many people read the owner manual from
beginning to end when they first receive their new
vehicle. If this is done, it can help you learn
about the features and controls for the vehicle.
Pictures and words work together in the
owner manual to explain things.
These mean there is something that could
hurt you or other people.
In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is.
Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or
reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If
you do not, you or others could be hurt.
Index
A good place to quickly locate information about
the vehicle is the Index in the back of the manual.
It is an alphabetical list of what is in the manual
and the page number where it can be found.
You will also find a
circle with a slash
through it in this book.
This safety symbol
means “Do Not,” “Do
Not do this” or “Do Not
let this happen.”
Safety Warnings and Symbols
There are a number of safety cautions in this
book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to
tell about things that could hurt you if you were to
ignore the warning.
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Vehicle Damage Warnings
Vehicle Symbols
Also, in this manual you will find these notices:
The vehicle has components and labels that use
symbols instead of text. Symbols are shown along
with the text describing the operation or
information relating to a specific component,
control, message, gage, or indicator.
Notice: These mean there is something
that could damage your vehicle.
A notice tells about something that can damage
the vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be
covered by your vehicle’s warranty, and it could
be costly. But the notice will tell what to do to help
avoid the damage.
If you need help figuring out a specific name of a
component, gage, or indicator, reference the
following topics:
• Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1
• Features and Controls in Section 2
• Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3
• Climate Controls in Section 3
When you read other manuals, you might see
CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors
or in different words.
There are also warning labels on the vehicle. They
use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.
• Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators in
Section 3
• Audio System(s) in Section 3
• Engine Compartment Overview in Section 5
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These are some examples of symbols that may be found on the vehicle:
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Section 1
Seats and Restraint Systems
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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.
Front Seats
Manual Passenger Seat
Your vehicle may have a manual passenger seat.
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If the vehicle has power seats, the controls used
to operate them are located on the outboard
side of the seats. To adjust the seat, do any of the
following:
Power Seats
• Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding
the control forward or rearward.
• Raise or lower the front part of the seat
cushion by moving the front of the control up
or down.
• Raise or lower the rear part of the seat
cushion by moving the rear of the control up
or down.
Your driver’s seat may have power reclining
seatbacks. See “Power Reclining Seatbacks”
information.
Driver’s Seat with Manual Lumbar, Power Seat
Control, and Power Recline shown
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Manual Lumbar
Heated Seats
If your vehicle has this
feature, the buttons that
control temperature
for the driver’s and
front passenger’s seats
are located on the
climate control panel.
See Climate Control
Press the button once to warm the seat to a high
temperature. Both lights below the heated seat
symbol will come on. Press the button a second
time to reduce the seat to a lower temperature.
The bottom light will be lit. Press the button a
third time to turn the heated seat off.
Driver’s Seat with Manual Lumbar and
8-way Power Controls shown
If your vehicle has manual lumbar, the lever is
located on the outboard side of the driver’s
seat near the front of the seat cushion. Lift up on
the lever repeatedly to increase lumbar support.
Push down on the lever repeatedly to decrease
lumbar support.
The heated seat feature will need to be turned
on each time the ignition is turned off and back
on again.
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The vehicle may have a manual recline on the
front passenger’s seat. There may be manual
recline on the driver’s seat.
Reclining Seatbacks
Manual Reclining Seatbacks
{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.
Passenger’s Seat with Manual Recline and
Power Seat Control shown
{CAUTION:
If the seatback is not locked, it could
move forward in a sudden stop or crash.
That could cause injury to the person
sitting there. Always push and pull on the
seatback to be sure it is locked.
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To recline the seatback, do the following:
1. Lift the recline lever.
Power Reclining Seatback
2. Move the seatback to the desired position,
then release the lever to lock the seatback
in place.
3. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure
it is locked.
To return the seatback to an upright position, do
the following:
1. Lift the lever fully without applying pressure to
the seatback and the seatback will return to
the upright position.
2. Push and pull on the seatback to make sure
it is locked.
Driver’s Seat with Manual Lumbar, Power Seat
Control, and Power Recline shown
The driver’s seat may have a power reclining
seatback. The control used to operate it is located
on the outboard side of the seat cushion rear of
the horizontal power seat control.
• Press the control rearward to recline the
seatback.
• Press the control forward to raise the
seatback.
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{CAUTION:
Sitting in a reclined position when your
vehicle is in motion can be dangerous.
Even if you buckle up, your safety belts
cannot do their job when you are reclined
like this.
The shoulder belt cannot do its job
because it will not be against your body.
Instead, it will be in front of you. In a
crash, you could go into it, receiving neck
or other injuries.
The lap belt cannot do its job either. In a
crash, the belt could go up over your
abdomen. The belt forces would be there,
not at your pelvic bones. This could cause
serious internal injuries.
For proper protection when the vehicle is
in motion, have the seatback upright.
Then sit well back in the seat and wear
your safety belt properly.
Do not have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is
moving.
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Pull the head restraint
up to raise it. To lower
the head restraint,
Head Restraints
press the button,
located on the top of
the seatback, and push
the restraint down.
Adjust the head restraint so that the top of the
restraint is at the same height as the top of
the occupant’s head. This position reduces the
chance of a neck injury in a crash.
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Center Seat
Rear Seats
Split Folding Rear Seat
Flip and Fold Feature
If your vehicle has this feature, you can flip the
bottom seat cushion(s) forward and fold the
seatback(s) down for an extended flat cargo area.
To use this feature, do the following:
Notice: Folding a rear seat with the safety
belts still fastened may cause damage to the
seat or the safety belts. Always unbuckle
the safety belts and return them to their normal
stowed position before folding a rear seat.
Your vehicle may have a front center seat. There
are cupholders on the underside of the seat
cushion. To use them, flip the seat cushion
forward. This seat can also be used as a storage
area by lowering the seatback. See Center
doubles as an armrest for the driver or front
passenger when the center seat is unoccupied.
For information on safety belts for this position, see
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1. Disconnect the rear
center safety belt
latch from the
mini buckle, if your
vehicle has this,
by using an object
such as a car key.
Insert the key into the slot in the mini buckle
and press the release button.
2. Flip the bottom seat cushion forward by
pulling up on the tab located in the center
of the seat cushion where the seatback meets
the seat cushion. There is a tab on both
rear seats.
Make sure the front seats are not reclined.
If they are, the seat cushion will not flip forward
completely.
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3. Lower the
To return the seats to the normal position, do the
following:
seatback(s) by
pulling forward on
the tab located
on the outboard side
of the seatback(s).
{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.
Make sure the front seats are not reclined.
If they are, the rear seatbacks will not
fold down all the way.
1. Raise the seatback up and make sure it latches.
{CAUTION:
A safety belt that is improperly routed,
not properly attached, or twisted will not
provide the protection needed in a crash.
The person wearing the belt could be
seriously injured. After raising the rear
seatback, always check to be sure that
the safety belts are properly routed and
attached, and are not twisted.
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2. Ensure that the safety belts are properly
stowed over the seatback in all three positions.
4. Flip the bottom seat cushion back into place.
Push firmly on the seat cushion to make sure
it is secure.
3. Reconnect the
rear center safety
belt latch plate
to the mini buckle,
if your vehicle
has this.
When the seat is not in use, the seatback should
be placed in upright, locked position, and the
seat cushion should be in the down position.
Under Seat Storage
Your vehicle has under seat storage.
To get to the storage area, lift up on the tab
located in the center of the bottom seat cushion
where the seat cushion meets the seatback.
information.
Make sure the safety belt label is facing the
same direction as the release button of
the mini buckle. Make sure the belt is not
twisted. Push and pull on the latch plate to
be sure it is secure.
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Safety Belts
{CAUTION:
Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a
cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle.
In a collision, people riding in these areas
are more likely to be seriously injured or
killed. Do not allow people to ride in any
area of your vehicle that is not equipped
with seats and safety belts. Be sure
everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and
using a safety belt properly.
This part of the manual tells you how to use
safety belts properly. It also tells you some things
you should not do with safety belts.
{CAUTION:
Do not let anyone ride where he or she
cannot wear a safety belt properly. If you
are in a crash and you are not wearing a
safety belt, your injuries can be much
worse. You can hit things inside the
vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be
seriously injured or killed. In the same
crash, you might not be, if you are
buckled up. Always fasten your safety
belt, and check that your passengers’
belts are fastened properly too.
Your vehicle has indicators to remind you and
your passengers to buckle your safety belts.
on page 175.
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In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the
law says to wear safety belts. Here is why:
They work.
Why Safety Belts Work
When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast
as it goes.
You never know if you will be in a crash. If you do
have a crash, you do not know if it will be a
bad one.
A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be
so serious that even buckled up, a person
would not survive. But most crashes are in
between. In many of them, people who buckle up
can survive and sometimes walk away. Without
belts they could have been badly hurt or killed.
After more than 40 years of safety belts in
vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes
buckling up does matter... a lot!
Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it is just a
seat on wheels.
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Put someone on it.
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle.
The rider does not stop.
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The person keeps going until stopped by
something. In a real vehicle, it could be the
windshield...
or the instrument panel...
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Questions and Answers About
Safety Belts
Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle after an
accident if I am wearing a safety belt?
A: You could be — whether you are wearing a
safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a
safety belt, even if you are upside down.
And your chance of being conscious during
and after an accident, so you can unbuckle
and get out, is much greater if you are belted.
Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why should
I have to wear safety belts?
or the safety belts!
A: Airbags are supplemental systems only; so
they work with safety belts — not instead of
them. Every airbag system ever offered
for sale has required the use of safety belts.
Even if you are in a vehicle that has airbags,
you still have to buckle up to get the most
protection. That is true not only in frontal
collisions, but especially in side and other
collisions.
With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle
does. You get more time to stop. You stop
over more distance, and your strongest bones
take the forces. That is why safety belts
make such good sense.
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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
Q: If I am a good driver, and I never drive far
from home, why should I wear safety belts?
This part is only for people of adult size.
A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you are
in an accident — even one that is not your
fault — you and your passengers can be hurt.
Being a good driver does not protect you
from things beyond your control, such as bad
drivers.
Be aware that there are special things to know
about safety belts and children. And there
are different rules for smaller children and babies.
If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see
everyone’s protection.
Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km)
of home. And the greatest number of
serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds
of less than 40 mph (65 km/h).
First, you will want to know which restraint
systems your vehicle has.
We will start with the driver position.
Safety belts are for everyone.
Driver Position
Lap-Shoulder Belt
The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here is how
to wear it properly.
1. Close and lock the door.
2. Adjust the seat so you can sit up straight.
To see how, see “Seats” in the Index.
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Make sure the release button on the buckle is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle
the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5. Move the shoulder belt height adjuster to the
height that is right for you. Improper shoulder
belt height adjustment could reduce the
effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash. See
3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across
you. Do not let it get twisted.
The lap-shoulder belt may lock if you pull the
belt across you very quickly. If this happens,
let the belt go back slightly to unlock it.
Then pull the belt across you more slowly.
4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it
clicks.
6. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the
shoulder belt.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is
secure. If the belt is not long enough,
It may be necessary to pull stitching on the
safety belt through the latch plate to fully
tighten the lap belt on smaller occupants.
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The lap part of the belt should be worn low and
snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In
a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic
bones. And you would be less likely to slide under
the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would
apply force at your abdomen. This could cause
serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder
belt should go over the shoulder and across the
chest. These parts of the body are best able
to take belt restraining forces.
The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop
or crash.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder
belt is too loose. In a crash, you would
move forward too much, which could
increase injury. The shoulder belt should
fit against your body.
A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It will not give
nearly as much protection this way.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your lap belt
is too loose. In a crash, you could slide
under the lap belt and apply force at your
abdomen. This could cause serious or
even fatal injuries. The lap belt should be
worn low and snug on the hips, just
touching the thighs.
A: The lap belt is too loose. It will not give nearly
as much protection this way.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt is
buckled in the wrong place like this. In a
crash, the belt would go up over your
abdomen. The belt forces would be there,
not at the pelvic bones. This could cause
serious internal injuries. Always buckle
your belt into the buckle nearest you.
A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt
goes over an armrest like this. The belt
would be much too high. In a crash, you
can slide under the belt. The belt force
would then be applied at the abdomen,
not at the pelvic bones, and that could
cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure
the belt goes under the armrests.
A: The belt is over an armrest.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if you wear
the shoulder belt under your arm. In a
crash, your body would move too far
forward, which would increase the chance
of head and neck injury. Also, the belt
would apply too much force to the ribs,
which are not as strong as shoulder
bones. You could also severely injure
internal organs like your liver or spleen.
A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It
should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
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Q: What is wrong with this?
{CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured by a twisted
belt. In a crash, you would not have the full
width of the belt to spread impact forces.
If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can
work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.
A: The belt is twisted across the body.
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Shoulder Belt Height Adjustment
Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt
adjuster to the height that is right for you.
Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of
the belt is centered on your shoulder. The
belt should be away from your face and neck, but
not falling off your shoulder. Improper shoulder
belt height adjustment could reduce the
effectiveness of the safety belt in a crash.
To move it down,
squeeze the
buttons (A) on the
sides of the height
adjuster and move
the height adjuster to
the desired position.
To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle.
The belt should go back out of the way.
Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out
of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can
damage both the belt and your vehicle.
You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up
on the shoulder belt guide.
After you move the adjuster to where you want
it, try to move it down without squeezing the
buttons to make sure it has locked into position.
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The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the
mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it
is more likely that the fetus will not be hurt
in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone,
the key to making safety belts effective is wearing
them properly.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant
women. Like all occupants, they are more likely
to be seriously injured if they do not wear
safety belts.
Right Front Passenger Position
To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s
The right front passenger’s safety belt works the
same way as the driver’s safety belt — except
for one thing. If you ever pull the shoulder portion
of the belt out all the way, you will engage the
child restraint locking feature. If this happens, let
the belt go back all the way and start again.
A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder
belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as
possible, below the rounding, throughout the
pregnancy.
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Center Front Passenger Position
Lap Belt
If your vehicle has a front bench seat, someone
can sit in the center position.
To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as
shown until the belt is snug.
Buckle, position and release it the same way as
the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt is
not long enough, see Safety Belt Extender
on page 42.
When you sit in the center front seating position,
you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor.
To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and
pull it along the belt.
Make sure the release button on the buckle is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle
the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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Rear Seat Passengers
It is very important for rear seat passengers to
buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted
people in the rear seat are hurt more often in
crashes than those who are wearing safety belts.
Rear passengers who are not safety belted
can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash.
And they can strike others in the vehicle who
are wearing safety belts.
Lap-Shoulder Belt
All rear seat positions have lap-shoulder belts.
Here is how to wear one properly.
1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across
you. Do not let it get twisted.
The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt
across you very quickly. If this happens, let
the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull
the belt across you more slowly.
2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is
secure.
When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the
way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the
way and start again.
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If the belt is not long enough, see Safety Belt
Make sure the release button on the buckle is
positioned so you would be able to unbuckle
the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and
snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a
crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones.
And you would be less likely to slide under the lap
belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at
your abdomen. This could cause serious or even
fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the
shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the
body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
3. To make the lap part tight, pull up on the
shoulder part.
The safety belt locks if there is a sudden stop or
a crash.
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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides
{CAUTION:
Rear shoulder belt comfort guides may provide
added safety belt comfort for older children
who have outgrown booster seats and for some
adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the
comfort guide positions the belt away from
the neck and head.
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder
belt is too loose. In a crash, you would
move forward too much, which could
increase injury. The shoulder belt should
fit against your body.
To unlatch the belt, push the button on the buckle.
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There is one guide for each outboard passenger
position in the rear seat. Here is how to install
a comfort guide to the safety belt:
1. Pull the guide out from the pocket on the
edge of the seatback.
3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies
flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt
and the guide on top.
2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The
elastic cord must be under the belt. Then,
place the guide over the belt, and insert the
two edges of the belt into the slots of the
guide.
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{CAUTION:
A safety belt that is not properly worn
may not provide the protection needed in
a crash. The person wearing the belt
could be seriously injured. The shoulder
belt should go over the shoulder and
across the chest. These parts of the body
are best able to take belt restraining
forces.
4. Buckle, position, and release the safety belt
page 37. Make sure that the shoulder
belt crosses the shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort guide, squeeze
the belt edges together so that you can take
them out of the guide. Slide the guide into the
storage pocket on the edge of the seatback.
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Safety Belt Pretensioners
Safety Belt Extender
Your vehicle has safety belt pretensioners for the
driver and right front passenger. Although you
cannot see them, they are part of the safety belt
assembly. They help tighten the safety belts during
the early stages of a moderate to severe frontal
or near frontal crash if the threshold conditions for
pretensioner activation are met.
If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you,
you should use it.
But if a safety belt is not long enough, your dealer
will order you an extender. When you go in to
order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so
the extender will be long enough for you. To
help avoid personal injury, do not let someone else
use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to
fit. The extender has been designed for adults.
Never use it for securing child seats. To wear it,
just attach it to the regular safety belt. For
more information see the instruction sheet that
comes with the extender.
Pretensioners work only once. If they activate in a
crash, you will need to get new ones, and
probably other new parts for your safety belt
system. See Replacing Restraint System Parts
42
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Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts?
Child Restraints
A: An older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt
and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt
can provide. The shoulder belt should not
cross the face or neck. The lap belt should fit
snugly below the hips, just touching the
Older Children
top of the thighs. It should never be worn over
the abdomen, which could cause severe or
even fatal internal injuries in a crash.
According to accident statistics, children are safer
when properly restrained in the rear seating
positions than in the front seating positions.
In a crash, children who are not buckled up can
strike other people who are buckled up, or can be
thrown out of the vehicle. Older children need
to use safety belts properly.
Older children who have outgrown booster seats
should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.
43
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Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder
belt, but the child is so small that the
shoulder belt is very close to the child’s
face or neck?
A: If the child is sitting in a seat next to a
window, move the child toward the center of
the vehicle. Also see Rear Safety Belt
sitting in the center rear seat passenger
position, move the child toward the safety belt
buckle. In either case, be sure that the
shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so
that in a crash the child’s upper body would
have the restraint that belts provide.
{CAUTION:
Never do this.
Here two children are wearing the same
belt. The belt can not properly spread the
impact forces. In a crash, the two children
can be crushed together and seriously
injured. A belt must be used by only
one person at a time.
44
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{CAUTION:
Never do this.
Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a
lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is
behind the child. If the child wears the
belt in this way, in a crash the child might
slide under the belt. The belt’s force
would then be applied right on the child’s
abdomen. That could cause serious or
fatal injuries.
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt
should be worn low and snug on the hips, just
touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force
to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.
45
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Infants and Young Children
{CAUTION:
Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This
includes infants and all other children. Neither the
distance traveled nor the age and size of the
traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use
safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state
in the United States and in every Canadian
province says children up to some age must be
restrained while in a vehicle.
Children can be seriously injured or
strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped
around their neck and the safety belt
continues to tighten. Never leave children
unattended in a vehicle and never allow
children to play with the safety belts.
Every time infants and young children ride in
vehicles, they should have the protection provided
by appropriate restraints. Young children should
not use the vehicle’s adult safety belts alone,
unless there is no other choice. Instead, they need
to use a child restraint.
46
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{CAUTION:
People should never hold a baby in their
arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby
does not weigh much — until a crash.
During a crash a baby will become so
heavy it is not possible to hold it. For
example, in a crash at only 25 mph
(40 km/h), a 12 lb (5.5 kg) baby will
suddenly become a 240 lb (110 kg) force
on a person’s arms. A baby should be
secured in an appropriate restraint.
47
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{CAUTION:
Children who are up against, or very close
to, any airbag when it inflates can be
seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus
lap-shoulder belts offer protection for
adults and older children, but not for
young children and infants. Neither the
vehicle’s safety belt system nor its airbag
system is designed for them. Young
children and infants need the protection
that a child restraint system can provide.
Q: What are the different types of add-on
child restraints?
A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased
by the vehicle’s owner, are available in
four basic types. Selection of a particular
restraint should take into consideration
not only the child’s weight, height, and age
but also whether or not the restraint will
be compatible with the motor vehicle in which
it will be used.
48
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For most basic types of child restraints, there
are many different models available. When
purchasing a child restraint, be sure it is
designed to be used in a motor vehicle.
CAUTION: (Continued)
forces can be distributed across the
If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that
it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards.
strongest part of an infant’s body, the back
and shoulders. Infants always should be
secured in appropriate infant restraints.
The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that
come with the restraint state the weight and
height limitations for a particular child restraint.
In addition, there are many kinds of restraints
available for children with special needs.
{CAUTION:
The body structure of a young child is
quite unlike that of an adult or older child,
for whom the safety belts are designed. A
young child’s hip bones are still so small
that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may
not remain low on the hip bones, as it
should. Instead, it may settle up around
the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt
would apply force on a body area that is
unprotected by any bony structure. This
alone could cause serious or fatal injuries.
Young children always should be secured
in appropriate child restraints.
{CAUTION:
Newborn infants need complete support,
including support for the head and neck.
This is necessary because a newborn
infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs
so much compared with the rest of its
body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing
seat settles into the restraint, so the crash
CAUTION: (Continued)
49
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Child Restraint Systems
A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint
with the seating surface against the back of the
infant. The harness system holds the infant
in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant
positioned in the restraint.
An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use
in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system
designed to restrain or position a child on a
continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant’s
head rests toward the center of the vehicle.
50
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A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint
for the child’s body with the harness and also
sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped
or shelf-like shields.
A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed
to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt
system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt
positioner, and some high-back booster seats
have a five-point harness. A booster seat can also
help a child to see out the window.
51
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Securing an Add-on Child Restraint in
the Vehicle
Q: How Should I Use a Child Restraint?
A: A child restraint system is any device designed
for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or
position children. A built-in child restraint
system is a permanent part of the motor
vehicle. An add-on child restraint system is a
portable one, which is purchased by the
vehicle’s owner. To help reduce injuries, an
add-on child restraint must be secured in
the vehicle. With built-in or add-on child
restraints, the child has to be secured within
the child restraint.
{CAUTION:
A child can be seriously injured or killed
in a crash if the child restraint is not
properly secured in the vehicle. Make sure
the child restraint is properly installed in
the vehicle using the vehicle’s safety
belt or LATCH system, following the
instructions that came with that restraint,
and also the instructions in this manual.
When choosing an add-on child restraint, be
sure the child restraint is designed to be
used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label
saying that it meets federal motor vehicle
safety standards. Then follow the instructions
for the restraint. You may find these
instructions on the restraint itself or in a
booklet, or both.
To help reduce the chance of injury, the child
restraint must be secured in the vehicle. Child
restraint systems must be secured in vehicle
seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of
a lap-shoulder belt, or by the LATCH system.
A child can be endangered in a crash if the child
restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle.
52
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When securing an add-on child restraint, refer
to the instructions that come with the restraint
which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet,
or both, and to this manual. The child restraint
instructions are important, so if they are not
available, obtain a replacement copy from the
manufacturer.
A shelf- or armrest-type shield has straps that are
attached to a wide, shelf-like shield that swings
up or to the side.
{CAUTION:
A child can be seriously injured or killed
in a crash if the child is not properly
secured in the child restraint. Make sure
the child is properly secured, following
the instructions that came with that
restraint.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can
move around in a collision or sudden stop and
injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly
secure any child restraint in your vehicle — even
when no child is in it.
Securing the Child Within the Child
Restraint
Because there are different systems, it is important
to refer to the instructions that come with the
restraint. A child can be endangered in a crash if
the child is not properly secured in the child
restraint.
There are several systems for securing the
child within the child restraint. One system,
the three-point harness, has straps that come
down over each of the infant’s shoulders
and buckle together at the crotch. The five-point
harness system has two shoulder straps, two
hip straps, and a crotch strap. A shield may take
the place of hip straps. A T-shaped shield has
shoulder straps that are attached to a flat
pad which rests low against the child’s body.
53
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Where to Put the Restraint
CAUTION: (Continued)
Accident statistics show that children are safer if
they are restrained in the rear rather than the front
seat. We recommend that child restraints be
secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding in
a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a
forward-facing child seat and an older child riding
in a booster seat.
This is because the back of the
rear-facing child restraint would be very
close to the inflating airbag.
Even though the passenger sensing
system is designed to turn off the
passenger’s frontal airbag if the system
detects a rear-facing child restraint, no
system is fail-safe, and no one can
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy
under some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off. We recommend
that rear-facing child restraints be secured
in the rear seat, even if the airbag is off.
Your vehicle has a rear seat that will accommodate
a rear-facing child restraint. A label on your sun
visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat
in the front.” This is because the risk to the
rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.
{CAUTION:
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.
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can
be seriously injured or killed if the right
front passenger’s airbag inflates.
CAUTION: (Continued)
54
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Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Children (LATCH)
{CAUTION:
The LATCH system holds a child restraint during
driving or in a crash. This system is designed
to make installation of a child restraint easier. The
LATCH system uses anchors in the vehicle and
attachments on the child restraint that are made for
use with the LATCH system
A child in a child restraint in the center
front seat can be badly injured or killed by
the right front passenger’s airbag if it
inflates. Never secure a child restraint in
the center front seat. It is always better to
secure a child restraint in the rear seat.
Make sure that a LATCH-compatible child restraint
is properly installed using the anchors, or use
the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the restraint,
following the instructions that came with that
restraint, and also the instructions in this manual.
When installing a child restraint with a top
tether, you must also use either the lower anchors
or the safety belts to properly secure the child
restraint. A child restraint must never be installed
using only the top tether and anchor.
Wherever you install a child restraint, be sure to
secure the child restraint properly.
Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can
move around in a collision or sudden stop and
injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly
secure any child restraint in your vehicle — even
when no child is in it.
In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle,
you need a child restraint that has LATCH
attachments. The child restraint manufacturer will
provide you with instructions on how to use
the child restraint and its attachments. The
following explains how to attach a child restraint
with these attachments in your vehicle.
55
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Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints
have lower anchors and attachments or top
tether anchors and attachments.
Top Tether Anchor
Lower Anchors
A top tether (A, C) anchors the top of the child
restraint to the vehicle. A top tether anchor is built
into the vehicle. The top tether attachment (B)
on the child restraint connects to the top tether
anchor in the vehicle in order to reduce the forward
movement and rotation of the child restraint
during driving or in a crash.
Lower anchors (A) are metal bars built into the
vehicle. There are two lower anchors for each
LATCH seating position that will accommodate
a child restraint with lower attachments (B).
Your child restraint may have a single tether (A)
or a dual tether (C). Either will have a single
attachment (B) to secure the top tether to
the anchor.
56
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Some child restraints that have a top tether are
designed for use with or without the top tether
being attached. Others require the top tether
always to be attached. In Canada, the law requires
that forward-facing child restraints have a top
tether, and that the tether be attached. In
the United States, some child restraints also have
a top tether. Be sure to read and follow the
instructions for your child restraint.
Lower Anchor and Top Tether Anchor
Locations
i (Top Tether Anchor):
Seating positions with
top tether anchors.
j (Lower Anchor):
Seating positions with
two lower anchors.
If the child restraint does not have a top tether,
one can be obtained, in kit form, for many
child restraints. Ask the child restraint
manufacturer whether or not a kit is available.
Rear Seat
To assist you in locating
the lower anchors,
each seating position
with lower anchors has
two labels, near the
crease between the
seatback and the
seat cushion.
57
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To assist you in locating
the top tether anchors,
the top tether anchor
symbol is located on the
trim cover.
The top tether anchors are located under the trim
covers on the rear seatback filler panel behind
each head restraint. Be sure to use an anchor
located on the same side of the vehicle as
the seating position where the child restraint will
be placed.
Do not secure a child restraint in the right front
passenger’s position if a national or local law
requires that the top tether be attached, or if the
instructions that come with the child restraint
say that the top tether must be attached. There is
no place to attach the top tether in this position.
Accident statistics show that children are safer
if they are restrained in the rear rather than
the front seat. See Where to Put the Restraint
on page 54 for additional information.
58
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Securing a Child Restraint Designed for
the LATCH System
{CAUTION:
Each top tether anchor and lower anchor
in the vehicle is designed to hold only
one child restraint. Attaching more than
one child restraint to a single anchor
could cause the anchor or attachment to
come loose or even break during a crash.
A child or others could be injured if this
happens. To help prevent injury to people
and damage to your vehicle, attach only
one child restraint per anchor.
{CAUTION:
If a LATCH-type child restraint is not
attached to anchors, the restraint will not
be able to protect the child correctly. In a
crash, the child could be seriously injured
or killed. Make sure that a LATCH-type
child restraint is properly installed using
the anchors, or use the vehicle’s safety
belts to secure the restraint, following the
instructions that came with that restraint,
and also the instructions in this manual.
59
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Folding an empty rear seat with the safety
belts secured may cause damage to the safety
belt or the seat. When removing the child
restraint, always remember to return the safety
belts to their normal, stowed position before
folding the rear seat.
{CAUTION:
Children can be seriously injured or
strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped
around their neck and the safety belt
continues to tighten. Secure any unused
safety belts behind the child restraint so
children cannot reach them. Pull the
shoulder belt all the way out of the
retractor to set the lock, if your vehicle
has one, after the child restraint has been
installed. Be sure to follow the
1. Attach and tighten the lower attachments to
the lower anchors. If the child restraint does
not have lower attachments or the desired
seating position does not have lower anchors,
secure the child restraint with the top tether
and the safety belts. Refer to your child
restraint manufacturer instructions and the
instructions in this manual.
instructions of the child restraint
manufacturer.
1.1. Find the lower anchors for the desired
seating position.
1.2. Put the child restraint on the seat.
1.3. Attach and tighten the lower
attachments on the child restraint to the
lower anchors.
Notice: Contact between the child restraint or
the LATCH attachment parts and the vehicle’s
safety belt assembly may cause damage to
these parts. Make sure when securing unused
safety belts behind the child restraint that
there is no contact between the child restraint
or the LATCH attachment parts and the
vehicle’s safety belt assembly.
60
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2. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends
that the top tether be attached, attach and
tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor,
if equipped. Refer to the child restraint
If the position you are
using has a fixed
headrest and you are
using a dual tether,
route the tether around
the head restraint.
instructions and the following steps:
2.1. Find the top tether anchor.
2.2. Push on the depression at the rear of
the trim cover lid and swing the lid open
to expose the top tether anchor.
2.3. Route, attach, and tighten the top tether
according to your child restraint
instructions and the following
instructions:
3. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
If the position you are
using has a fixed
headrest and you are
using a single tether,
route the tether over the
head restraint.
61
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Securing a Child Restraint in a
Rear Seat Position
If your child restraint has the LATCH system,
If your child restraint does not have the LATCH
system, you will be using the lap-shoulder
belt to secure the child restraint in this position.
Be sure to follow the instructions that came
with the child restraint. Secure the child in the
child restraint when and as the instructions say.
1. Put the child restraint on the seat.
3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button
is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle
the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and
shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt
through or around the restraint. The child
restraint instructions will show you how.
62
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4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way
out of the retractor to set the lock.
5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child
restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt
to tighten the lap portion of the belt, and
feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor.
If you are using a forward-facing child
restraint, you may find it helpful to use your
knee to push down on the child restraint
as you tighten the belt.
63
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6. If your child restraint manufacturer
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Center Front Seat Position
recommends using a top tether, attach and
tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor.
Refer to the instructions that came with the
child restraint and see Lower Anchors
{CAUTION:
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
A child in a child restraint in the center
front seat can be badly injured or killed by
the right front passenger’s airbag if it
inflates. Never secure a child restraint in
the center front seat. It is always better to
secure a child restraint in the rear seat.
To remove the child restraint, if the top tether is
attached to the top tether anchor, disconnect
it. Unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go
back all the way. The safety belt will move
freely again and be ready to work for an adult or
larger child passenger.
Do not secure a child restraint in the center front
seat position.
64
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Securing a Child Restraint in the
Right Front Seat Position
{CAUTION:
Your vehicle has a right front passenger’s airbag.
A rear seat is a safer place to secure a
forward-facing child restraint. See Where to Put
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can
be seriously injured or killed if the right
front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is
because the back of the rear-facing child
restraint would be very close to the
inflating airbag.
Even though the passenger sensing
system is designed to turn off the right
front passenger’s frontal 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 some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off. We recommend that
rear-facing child restraints be secured in
the rear seat, even if the airbag is off.
In addition, your vehicle has a passenger sensing
system. The passenger sensing system is
designed to turn off the right front passenger’s
frontal airbag when an infant in a rear-facing infant
seat or a small child in a forward-facing child
restraint or booster seat is detected. See
more information on this including important
safety information.
A label on your sun visor says, “Never put a
rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because
the risk to the rear-facing child is 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.
65
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If you need to secure a forward-facing child
restraint in the right front seat position, move the
seat as far back as it will go before securing
the forward-facing child restraint. See Manual
on page 10.
You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure
the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow
the instructions that came with the child restraint.
Secure the child in the child restraint when and as
the instructions say.
1. Your vehicle has a right front passenger’s
frontal airbag. See Passenger Sensing
rear-facing child restraints be secured in a rear
seat, even if the airbag is off. If your child
restraint is forward-facing, move the seat as
far back as it will go before securing the
child restraint in this seat. See Manual
on page 10.
If your child restraint has the LATCH system,
There is no top tether anchor at the right front
seating position. Do not secure a child restraint
in this position if a national or local law requires
that the top tether be anchored or if the
instructions that come with the child restraint
say that the top tether must be anchored.
has a top tether.
When the passenger sensing system has
turned off the right front passenger’s frontal
airbag, the off indicator in the passenger airbag
status indicator should light and stay lit
when you turn the ignition to RUN or START.
on page 177.
2. Put the child restraint on the seat.
66
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3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and
shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt
through or around the restraint. The child
restraint instructions will show you how.
5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way
out of the retractor to set the lock.
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button
is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle
the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
67
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If you are using a forward-facing child
restraint, you may find it helpful to use your
knee to push down on the child restraint
as you tighten the belt. You should not be able
to pull more of the belt from the retractor
once the lock has been set.
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
8. If the airbag is off, the off indicator on the
instrument panel will be lit and stay lit
when the key is turned to RUN or START.
If a child restraint has been installed and the on
indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove
the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall
the child restraint.
6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child
restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt
to tighten the lap portion of the belt and
feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor.
68
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If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting
the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to
make sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not
pressing the child restraint into the seat cushion.
If this happens, slightly recline the vehicle’s
seatback and adjust the seat cushion if possible.
Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped
under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens,
adjust the head restraint.
Airbag System
Your vehicle has a frontal airbag for the driver
and a frontal airbag for the right front passenger.
Your vehicle may also have roof-mounted side
impact airbags. Roof-mounted side impact airbags
are available for the driver and the passenger
seated directly behind the driver and for the right
front passenger and the passenger seated
directly behind that passenger.
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in
the child restraint in a rear seat position in
the vehicle and check with your dealer.
If your vehicle has roof-mounted side impact
airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on
the airbag covering on the ceiling near the side
windows.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the
vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way.
The safety belt will move freely again and be
ready to work for an adult or larger child
passenger.
Airbags are designed to supplement the protection
provided by safety belts. Even though today’s
airbags are also designed to help reduce the risk
of injury from the force of an inflating bag, all
airbags must inflate very quickly to do their job.
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Here are the most important things to know about
the airbag system:
CAUTION: (Continued)
inflate in rollover, rear crashes, or in many
side crashes. And, for some unrestrained
occupants, frontal airbags may provide
less protection in frontal crashes than
more forceful airbags have provided in
the past.
{CAUTION:
You can be severely injured or killed in a
crash if you are not wearing your safety
belt — even if you have airbags. Wearing
your safety belt during a crash helps
reduce your chance of hitting things
inside the vehicle or being ejected from it.
Airbags are “supplemental restraints” to
the safety belts. All airbags are designed
to work with safety belts but do not
replace them.
Roof-mounted side impact airbags are
designed to inflate in moderate to severe
crashes where something hits the side of
your vehicle. They are not designed to
inflate in frontal, in rollover or in rear
crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should
wear a safety belt properly — whether or
not there is an airbag for that person.
Frontal airbags for the driver and right
front passenger are designed to deploy
in moderate to severe frontal and near
frontal crashes. They are not designed to
CAUTION: (Continued)
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{CAUTION:
{CAUTION:
Both frontal and side impact airbags
inflate with great force, faster than the
blink of an eye. If you are too close to an
inflating airbag, as you would be if you
were leaning forward, it could seriously
injure you. Safety belts help keep you in
position for airbag inflation before and
during a crash. Always wear your safety
belt even with frontal airbags. The driver
should sit as far back as possible while
still maintaining control of the vehicle.
Occupants should not lean on or sleep
against the door.
Anyone who is up against, or very close
to, any airbag when it inflates can be
seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus
lap-shoulder belts offer the best
protection for adults, but not for young
children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s
safety belt system nor its airbag system is
designed for them. Young children and
infants need the protection that a child
restraint system can provide. Always
secure children properly in your vehicle.
on page 46.
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There is an airbag
readiness light on the
instrument panel cluster,
which shows the
Where Are the Airbags?
airbag symbol.
The system checks the airbag electrical system for
malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an
electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light
on page 176 for more information.
The driver’s frontal airbag is in the middle of the
steering wheel.
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The right front passenger’s frontal airbag is in the
instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
If your vehicle has a roof-mounted side impact
airbag for the driver and the person seated directly
behind the driver, it is in the ceiling above the
side windows.
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{CAUTION:
If something is between an occupant
and an airbag, the bag might not inflate
properly or it might force the object into
that person causing severe injury or even
death. The path of an inflating airbag
must be kept clear. Do not put anything
between an occupant and an airbag, and
do not attach or put anything on the
steering wheel hub or on or near any
other airbag covering. And, if your vehicle
has roof-mounted side impact airbags,
never secure anything to the roof of your
vehicle by routing the rope or tie down
through any door or window opening.
If you do, the path of an inflating side
impact airbag will be blocked. The path
of an inflating airbag must be kept clear.
If your vehicle has a roof-mounted side impact
airbag for the right front passenger and the person
seated directly behind that passenger, it is in
the ceiling above the side windows.
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In addition, your vehicle has “dual-stage” frontal
airbags, which adjust the restraint according
to crash severity. Your vehicle has electronic
frontal sensors which help the sensing system
distinguish between a moderate frontal impact
and a more severe frontal impact. For moderate
frontal impacts, these airbags inflate at a level
less than full deployment. For more severe frontal
impacts, full deployment occurs. If the front of
your vehicle goes straight into a wall that does
not move or deform, the threshold level for
the reduced deployment is about 12 to 16 mph
(19 to 26 km/h), and the threshold level for
a full deployment is about 18 to 22 mph
When Should an Airbag Inflate?
The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal
airbags are designed to inflate in moderate
to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. But
they are designed to inflate only if the impact
exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold.
Deployment thresholds take into account a variety
of desired deployment and non-deployment
events and are used to predict how severe a crash
is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate
and help restrain the occupants. Whether
your frontal airbags will or should deploy is not
based on how fast your vehicle is traveling.
It depends largely on what you hit, the direction
of the impact, and how quickly your vehicle
slows down.
(29 to 35.4 km/h). The threshold level can vary,
however, with specific vehicle design, so that it
can be somewhat above or below this range.
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Frontal airbags may inflate at different crash
speeds. For example:
Your vehicle may or may not have side impact
Side impact airbags are intended to inflate in
moderate to severe side crashes. A side impact
airbag will inflate if the crash severity is above the
system’s designed threshold level. The threshold
level can vary with specific vehicle design.
Side impact airbags are not intended to inflate in
frontal or near-frontal impacts, rollovers, or
rear impacts. Both side impact airbags will deploy
when either side is struck.
• If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the
airbags could inflate at a different crash speed
than if the vehicle hits a moving object.
• If the vehicle hits an object that deforms, the
airbags could inflate at a different crash
speed than if the vehicle hits an object that
does not deform.
• If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole),
the airbags could inflate at a different crash
speed than if the vehicle hits a wide object
(like a wall).
In any particular crash, no one can say whether
an airbag should have inflated simply because
of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the
repair costs were. For frontal airbags, inflation is
determined by what the vehicle hits, the angle
of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows
down in frontal or near-frontal impacts. For
side impact airbags, inflation is determined by the
location and severity of the impact.
• If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle,
the airbags could inflate at a different crash
speed than if the vehicle goes straight into
the object.
Frontal airbags (driver and right front passenger)
are not intended to inflate during vehicle
rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts.
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Airbags supplement the protection provided by
safety belts. Airbags distribute the force of
the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper
body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
But the frontal airbags would not help you in many
types of collisions, including rollovers, rear
impacts, and many side impacts, primarily because
an occupant’s motion is not toward the airbag.
Side impact airbags would not help you in many
types of collisions, including many frontal or
near frontal collisions, rollovers, and rear impacts.
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?
In an impact of sufficient severity, the airbag
sensing system detects that the vehicle is
in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release
of gas from the inflator, which inflates the
airbag. The inflator, airbag, and related hardware
are all part of the airbag modules inside the
steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front
of the right front passenger. For vehicles with
roof-mounted side impact airbags, there are also
airbag modules in the ceiling of the vehicle,
near the side windows.
Airbags should never be regarded as anything
more than a supplement to safety belts, and then
only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal
collisions for the driver’s and right front
passenger’s frontal airbags, and only in moderate
to severe side collisions for vehicles with side
impact airbags.
How Does an Airbag Restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal
collisions, even belted occupants can contact the
steering wheel or the instrument panel. In
moderate to severe side collisions, even belted
occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle.
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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
the airbag inflated. Roof-mounted side impact
airbags may still be at least partially inflated
When an airbag inflates, there may be
dust in the air. This dust could cause
breathing problems for people with a
history of asthma or other breathing
trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as it is
safe to do so. If you have breathing
problems but cannot get out of the vehicle
after an airbag inflates, then get fresh air
by opening a window or a door. If you
experience breathing problems following
an airbag deployment, you should seek
medical attention.
minutes after the vehicle comes to rest. Some
components of the airbag module — the steering
wheel hub for the driver’s airbag, the instrument
panel for the right front passenger’s airbag, or the
garnish trim and ceiling of your vehicle near
the side windows for vehicles with roof–mounted
side impact airbags — may be hot for a short time.
The parts of the airbag that come into contact
with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch.
There may be some smoke and dust coming from
the vents in the deflated airbags. Airbag inflation
does not prevent the driver from seeing out of the
windshield or being able to steer the vehicle,
nor does it prevent people from leaving the vehicle.
Your vehicle has a feature that may automatically
unlock the doors, turn the interior lamps on, and
turn the hazard warning flashers when the airbags
inflate. You can lock the doors again, turn the
interior lamps off, and turn the hazard warning
flashers off by using the controls for those features.
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In many crashes severe enough to inflate an
airbag, windshields are broken by vehicle
deformation. Additional windshield breakage may
also occur from the right front passenger
airbag.
Passenger Sensing System
Your vehicle has a passenger sensing system.
The passenger airbag status indicator on the
instrument panel will be visible when you turn your
ignition key to RUN or START. The words ON
and OFF or the symbol for on and off, will
be visible during the system check.
• Airbags are designed to inflate only once.
After an airbag inflates, you will need
some new parts for the airbag system. If you
do not get them, the airbag system will
not be there to help protect you in another
crash. A new system will include airbag
modules and possibly other parts. The service
manual for your vehicle covers the need to
replace other parts.
• Your vehicle has a crash sensing and
diagnostic module which records information
after a crash. See Vehicle Data Collection and
United States
Canada
If you use remote start to start your vehicle from
a distance, if your vehicle has this feature,
you may not see the system check. When the
system check is complete, either the word ON
or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or the
symbol for off will be visible. See Passenger
• Let only qualified technicians work on the
airbag system. Improper service can mean that
your airbag system will not work properly.
See your dealer for service.
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The passenger sensing system will turn off the
right front passenger’s frontal airbag under certain
conditions. The driver’s airbags are not part of
the passenger sensing system.
Here is why:
{CAUTION:
The passenger sensing system works with
sensors that are part of the right front passenger’s
seat and safety belt. The sensors are designed
to detect the presence of a properly seated
occupant and determine if the passenger’s frontal
airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not.
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can
be seriously injured or killed if the right
front passenger’s airbag inflates. This is
because the back of the rear-facing child
restraint would be very close to the
inflating airbag.
Accident statistics show that children are safer if
they are restrained in the rear rather than the front
seat. We recommend that child restraints be
secured in a rear seat, including an infant riding
in a rear-facing infant seat, a child riding in a
forward-facing child seat and an older child riding
in a booster seat.
Even though the passenger sensing
system is designed to turn off the
passenger’s frontal airbag if the system
detects a rear-facing child restraint, no
system is fail-safe, and no one can
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy
under some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off. We recommend
that rear-facing child restraints be secured
in the rear seat, even if the airbag is off.
There is a label on your sun visor that says,
“Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.”
This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is
so great if the airbag deploys. Never put a rear
facing child restraint in the right front passenger
seat unless the airbag is off.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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When the passenger’s frontal airbag has been
turned off by the passenger sensing system, the
off indicator on the instrument panel will light
and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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.
If a child restraint has been installed and the
on indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the
child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the
child restraint following the child restraint
manufacturer’s directions and refer to Securing a
on page 65.
The passenger sensing system is designed to turn
off the right front passenger’s frontal airbag if:
• The right front passenger seat is unoccupied.
If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting
the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to
make sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not
pressing the child restraint into the seat cushion.
If this happens, slightly recline the vehicle’s
seatback and adjust the seat cushion if possible.
Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped
under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens,
adjust the head restraint.
• The system determines that an infant is
present in a rear-facing infant seat.
• The system determines that a small child is
present in a forward-facing child restraint.
• The system determines that a small child is
present in a booster seat.
• A right front passenger takes his/her weight off
of the seat for a period of time.
• The right front passenger seat is occupied by
a smaller person, such as a child who has
outgrown child restraints.
• Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag
system or the passenger sensing system
If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in
the child restraint in a rear seat position in
the vehicle if one is available and check with
your dealer.
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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.
Restart the vehicle and have the person remain
in this position for about two minutes. This
will allow the system to detect that person and
then enable the passenger’s airbag.
For some children who have outgrown child
restraints and for very small adults, the passenger
sensing system may or may not turn off the
right front passenger’s frontal airbag, depending
upon the person’s seating posture and body build.
Everyone in your vehicle who has outgrown
child restraints should wear a safety belt
properly — whether or not there is an airbag for
that person.
If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front
passenger’s seat, but the off indicator is lit, it
could be because that person is not sitting properly
in the seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off
and ask the person to place the seatback in
the fully upright position, then sit upright in
the seat, centered on the seat cushion,
with the person’s legs comfortably extended.
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Aftermarket equipment, such as seat covers,
can affect how well the passenger sensing system
operates. You may want to consider not using
seat covers or other aftermarket equipment if
your vehicle has the passenger sensing system.
modifications that can affect how the system
operates.
{CAUTION:
If the airbag readiness light in the
instrument panel cluster ever comes on
and stays on, it means that something may
be wrong with the airbag system. If this
ever happens, have the vehicle serviced
promptly, because an adult-size person
sitting in the right front passenger’s seat
may not have the protection of the frontal
page 176 for more on this, including
important safety information.
{CAUTION:
Stowing of articles under the passenger’s
seat or between the passenger’s seat
cushion and seatback may interfere with
the proper operation of the passenger
sensing system.
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Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle
{CAUTION:
Airbags affect how your vehicle should be
serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in
several places around your vehicle. You do
not want the system to inflate while someone is
working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the
service manual have information about servicing
your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase
a service manual, see Service Publications
For up to 10 seconds, after the ignition is
turned off and the battery is disconnected,
an airbag can still inflate during improper
service. You can be injured if you are
close to an airbag 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.
The airbag system does not need regular
maintenance.
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Adding Equipment to Your
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get
my vehicle modified. How can I find out
whether this will affect my airbag system?
A: Changing or moving any parts of the
front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing
and diagnostic module, steering wheel,
instrument panel, ceiling headliner, ceiling
and pillar garnish trim, roof-mounted airbag
modules, or airbag wiring can affect the
operation of the airbag system. If you have
questions, call Customer Assistance. The
phone numbers and addresses for Customer
Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer
Satisfaction Procedure in this manual.
on page 428.
Q: Is there anything I might add to the front
or sides of the vehicle that could keep the
airbags from working properly?
A: Yes. If you add things that change your
vehicle’s frame, bumper system, height,
front end or side sheet metal, they may keep
the airbag system from working properly.
Also, the airbag system may not work properly
if you relocate any of the airbag sensors. If
you have any questions about this, you should
contact Customer Assistance before you
modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and
addresses for Customer Assistance are in
Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction
Procedure in this manual. See Customer
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Also look for any opened or broken airbag covers,
and have them repaired or replaced. The airbag
system does not need regular maintenance.
Restraint System Check
Checking the Restraint Systems
Notice: If you damage the covering for
the driver’s or the right front passenger’s
airbag, or the side impact airbag covering
(if equipped) on the ceiling near the side
windows, 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 and ceiling covering for roof-mounted
side impact airbags (if equipped.) Do not
open or break the airbag coverings.
Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder
light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates,
retractors and anchorages are working properly.
Look for any other loose or damaged safety
belt system parts. If you see anything that might
keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have
for more information.
Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in
a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces.
If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.
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If belts are cut or damaged, replace them.
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash
Collision damage also may mean you will need to
have LATCH system, safety belt or seat parts
repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may
be necessary even if the belt or LATCH system
was not being used at the time of the collision.
{CAUTION:
If an airbag inflates, you will need to replace airbag
system parts. See the part on the airbag system
earlier in this section.
A crash can damage the restraint systems
in your vehicle. A damaged restraint
system may not properly protect the
person using it, resulting in serious injury
or even death in a crash. To help make
sure your restraint systems are working
properly after a crash, have them inspected
and any necessary replacements made
as soon as possible.
If the frontal or side airbags inflate you will also
need to replace the driver and front passenger’s
safety belt retractor assembly. Be sure to do
so. Then the new retractor assembly will be there
to help protect you in a collision.
After a crash you may need to replace the driver
and front passenger’s safety belt retractor
assemblies, even if the frontal airbags have not
deployed. The driver and front passenger’s safety
belt retractor assemblies contain the safety belt
pretensioners. Have your safety belt pretensioners
checked if your vehicle has been in a collision,
or if your airbag readiness light stays on after you
start your vehicle or while you are driving. See
If you have had a crash, do you need new belts or
LATCH system parts?
After a very minor collision, nothing may be
necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they
would be if worn during a more severe crash,
then you need new parts.
If the LATCH system was being used during a
more severe crash, you may need new LATCH
system parts.
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✍ NOTES
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Section 2
Features and Controls
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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.
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One key is used for
the ignition and the
driver’s door.
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System
The remote keyless entry system operates
on a radio frequency subject to Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) Rules
and with Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful
interference.
If you need a new key, contact your dealer for
assistance. In an emergency, contact Roadside
page 434 for more information.
• This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry
Canada. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
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.
• This device may not cause interference.
• This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
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Changes or modifications to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation
The vehicle’s doors can be locked and unlocked,
and the trunk can be unlatched from about
3 feet (1 m) up to 65 feet (20 m) away with the
remote keyless entry transmitter.
At times you may notice a decrease in range. This
is normal for any remote keyless entry system.
If the transmitter does not work or if you have to
stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter
to work, try this:
If your vehicle has the remote start feature you
can also start your vehicle with the remote keyless
entry transmitter. Your remote keyless entry
transmitter, with the remote start button, provides
an increased range of 195 feet (60 m) away.
However, the range may be less while the vehicle
is running. As a result, you may need to be
closer to your vehicle to turn it off than you were
to turn it on.
• Check the distance. You may be too far from
your vehicle. You may need to stand closer
during rainy or snowy weather.
• Check the location. Other vehicles or objects
may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps
to the left or right, hold the transmitter
higher, and try again.
• Check to determine if battery replacement or
resynchronization is necessary. See “Battery
Replacement” and “Resynchronization”
There are other conditions which can affect the
performance of the transmitter. See Remote
• If you are still having trouble, see your dealer
or a qualified technician for service.
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Q(Lock): Press the lock button to lock all the
doors. 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 chirp when the lock button is
pressed again within five seconds of the previous
press of the lock button. See DIC Vehicle
information. Pressing the lock button may arm the
content theft-deterrent system. See Content
" (Unlock): Press the unlock button to unlock the
driver’s door. If the button is pressed again
within five seconds, all remaining doors will unlock.
The interior lamps will come on and stay on for
20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on.
If enabled through the DIC, the parking lamps will
flash once to indicate unlocking has occurred.
Pressing the unlock button on the remote keyless
entry transmitter will disarm the content
Remote Keyless Entry
with Remote Start
Remote Keyless Entry
without Remote Start
The following functions may be available if your
vehicle has the remote keyless entry system:
/(Remote Vehicle Start): If your vehicle has
this feature, it may be started from outside
the vehicle using the remote keyless entry
transmitter. See “Remote Vehicle Start” following
for more detailed information.
theft-deterrent system. See Content
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V(Remote Trunk Release): Press and hold
this button for about one second to release
the trunk lid. The transaxle must be in PARK (P)
for this feature to operate.
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your
Vehicle
Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to
prevent another transmitter from unlocking your
vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a
replacement can be purchased through your GM
dealer. Remember to bring any additional
transmitters so they can also be re-coded to
match the new transmitter. Once your dealer has
coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter
will not unlock your vehicle. The vehicle can have
a maximum of eight transmitters matched to it.
See Remote Key under DIC Operation and
L(Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and
release this button to locate your vehicle. The turn
signal lamps will flash and the horn will sound
three times. Press and hold this button for more
than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The
turn signal lamps will flash and the horn will
sound repeatedly for 30 seconds. The alarm will
turn off when the ignition is turned to RUN or
the alarm button is pressed again. The ignition
must be in OFF for the panic alarm to work.
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Battery Replacement
Under normal use, the battery in your remote
keyless entry transmitter should last about
four years.
You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter
will not work at the normal range in any location.
If you have to get close to your vehicle before
the transmitter works, it is probably time to change
the battery.
The REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY
message in the vehicle’s DIC will display if the
remote keyless entry transmitter battery is
low. See “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY”
for additional information.
To replace the battery in the remote keyless entry
transmitter do the following:
1. Use a flat object with a thin edge into the
notch, located below the trunk release
button, and separate the bottom half from the
top half of the transmitter.
Notice: When replacing the battery, use care
not to touch any of the circuitry. Static
from your body transferred to these surfaces
may damage the transmitter.
2. Remove the old battery, but do not use a
metal object to do this.
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3. Slide the new battery into the transmitter with
the positive side of the battery facing down.
Use a type CR2032 battery, or equivalent
type. Make sure the cover is on tightly,
so water will not get in.
Laws in some communities may restrict the use of
remote starters. For example, requiring 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.
4. Snap the front and the back of the transmitter
together.
Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle
is low on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel.
5. Test the operation of the transmitter with the
vehicle.
Your remote keyless entry transmitter, with
the remote start button, provides an increased
range of operation. However, the range may
be less while the vehicle is running. As a result,
you may need to be closer to your vehicle to turn it
off, than you were to turn it on.
Remote Vehicle Start
Your vehicle may have a remote starting feature.
This feature allows you to start the engine
from outside of the vehicle.
There are other conditions which can affect the
performance of the transmitter, see Remote
additional information.
If your vehicle has an outside temperature display,
during remote start this feature allows the
climate control system to default to a heating
mode during colder outside temperatures and a
cooling mode during warmer outside temperatures.
If your vehicle does not have an outside
temperature display, during remote start the
climate control system will turn on at the setting
the vehicle was set to when the vehicle was
last turned off.
/(Remote Start): Press and release the lock
button and then press and hold this button to use
the remote start feature.
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To start the vehicle using the remote start feature,
do the following:
To manually shut off a remote start, do any of the
following:
• Aim the remote keyless entry transmitter at
the vehicle and press the remote start
button until the parking lamps turn off.
1. Aim the transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press and release the transmitter’s lock
button, then immediately press and hold
the transmitter’s remote start button until the
turn signal lights flash or if the vehicle’s
lights are not visible, press and hold the
remote start button for at least four seconds.
The vehicle’s doors will lock. Pressing the
remote start button again after the vehicle has
started will turn off the ignition.
• Turn on the hazards warning flashers.
• Turn the ignition switch on and then off.
The remote vehicle start feature provides two
separate starts, each with 10 minutes of engine
running, or it provides one start with 10 minutes
of engine running that may be extended with
10 more minutes. If you press and release
the transmitter lock button and then press and
hold the remote start button, on the remote
keyless entry transmitter, again before the first
10 minutes of engine running time has expired,
10 minutes are added to the remaining minutes.
For example, if the lock button and then the
remote start buttons are pressed again after
five minutes of the engine run time, 10 minutes
are added and you now have 15 minutes of
engine running. The added ten minutes are
considered a second remote vehicle start.
3. When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps
will turn on and remain on while the vehicle
is running.
4. If it is your first remote start since last driving,
repeat these steps while the engine is still
running for a 10 minute time extension.
When you enter the vehicle during a remote start,
and the engine is still running, turn the key to
the RUN position to drive the vehicle.
If the vehicle is left running it will automatically
shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension
has been done.
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Once two remote starts or a single start with a
time extension have been provided, the vehicle
must be started normally with the ignition key
to get more remote vehicle starts.
Remote Start Ready
If your vehicle does not have the remote vehicle
start feature, it may have the remote start
ready feature. This feature allows your dealer to
add the manufacturer’s remote vehicle start
feature.
The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if
the key is in the ignition, the hood is not closed
or if there is an emission control system
malfunction.
If your vehicle has the remote start ready feature,
your remote keyless entry transmitter will have
extended range that will allow you to lock or unlock
your vehicle from about 195 feet (60 m) away.
Also, the engine will turn off during a remote
vehicle start if the coolant temperature gets too
high or if the oil pressure gets low.
See your dealer if you would like to add the
manufacturer’s remote vehicle start feature to
your vehicle.
Vehicles equipped with the remote vehicle start
feature are shipped from the factory with the
remote vehicle start system enabled. The system
may be enabled or disabled through the DIC.
See “REMOTE START” under DIC Vehicle
information.
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Doors and Locks
CAUTION: (Continued)
Door Locks
• Young children who get into unlocked
vehicles may be unable to get out.
A child can be overcome by extreme
heat and can suffer permanent injuries
or even death from heat stroke.
Always lock your vehicle whenever
you leave it.
• Outsiders can easily enter through an
unlocked door when you slow down
or stop your vehicle. Locking your
doors can help prevent this from
happening.
{CAUTION:
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
• Passengers, especially children, can
easily open the doors and fall out of
a moving vehicle. When a door is
locked, the handle will not open it.
You increase the chance of being
thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if
the doors are not locked. So, wear
safety belts properly and lock the
doors whenever you drive.
There are several ways to lock and unlock your
vehicle.
CAUTION: (Continued)
From the outside, use your key in the driver’s door
or use the remote keyless entry transmitter. From
the inside, use the manual or power door locks.
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To unlock the driver’s side door from the outside
with the key, insert the key and turn it
counterclockwise. To lock the driver’s side door
from the outside with your key, insert the key and
turn it clockwise.
Power Door Locks
A power door lock
switch is located on
both front doors next to
the door handle.
To lock the door from
the inside, push the
manual lock knob down.
To unlock the door,
pull the knob up.
Press the top of the switch to unlock all doors, or
press the bottom of the switch to lock all doors.
If your vehicle has the optional content
theft-deterrent system and it is armed, the power
door lock switches will be disabled. You must
use your remote keyless entry transmitter or your
key to unlock the doors when the system is
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Automatic Door Lock
Rear Door Security Locks
The doors will automatically lock when the shift
lever is moved out of PARK (P). The automatic
door locking feature cannot be disabled.
Your vehicle has rear door security locks. These
prevent passengers from opening the rear
doors from the inside.
The rear door security
locks are located on the
inside edge of each
rear door. You
must open the rear
doors to access them.
The label depicting
lock and unlock
Programmable Automatic Door
Unlock
Your vehicle is programmed so that when the shift
lever is moved into PARK (P) all doors will
unlock.
With the vehicle stopped and the engine running,
door unlocking can be programmed through
prompts displayed on the Driver Information
Center (DIC). These prompts allow the driver to
choose various unlock settings. For programming
page 206.
positions is located near
the lock.
Security Lock Label
shown
To set the locks, do the following:
1. Insert the key into the security lock slot and
turn it so the slot is in the horizontal position.
2. Close the door.
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When you want to open a rear door when the
security lock is on, do the following:
Trunk
1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless
entry transmitter, if the vehicle has one, the
power door lock switch, or by lifting the
rear door manual lock.
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to drive with the
trunk lid open because carbon monoxide
(CO) gas can come into your vehicle.
You cannot see or smell CO. It can cause
unconsciousness and even death. If you
must drive with the trunk lid open or if
electrical wiring or other cable
connections must pass through the seal
between the body and the trunk lid:
• Make sure all other windows are shut.
• Turn the fan on your heating or
cooling system to its highest speed
and select the control setting that will
force outside air into your vehicle.
See Climate Control System.
2. Open the door from the outside.
To cancel the rear door security lock, do the
following:
1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside.
2. Insert the key into the security lock slot
and turn it so the slot is in the vertical position.
Lockout Protection
This feature helps prevent you from locking the
doors while your key is in the ignition. Always
remember to take your key with you when exiting
your vehicle.
If the lock switch is pressed on the door that is
open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors
will lock and then the driver’s door will unlock.
A chime will sound continuously until all doors are
closed.
• If you have air outlets on or under
the instrument panel, open them all
the way.
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Trunk Release
Emergency Trunk Release Handle
To open the trunk from the outside, press the
open trunk button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter, if equipped.
Notice: Do not use the emergency trunk
release handle as a tie-down or anchor point
when securing items in the trunk as it
could damage the handle. The emergency
trunk release handle is only intended to aid a
person trapped in a latched trunk, enabling
them to open the trunk from the inside.
Remote Trunk Release
You can also open the trunk from inside the
vehicle.
G(Remote Trunk Release): Press the button
with the open trunk symbol on it. The button is
located next to the exterior lamps control on
the left side of the instrument panel. The shift lever
must be in PARK (P) for the remote trunk
release button to work.
If your vehicle ever loses power, you can open the
trunk by lowering the rear seat and pulling the
emergency trunk release handle located inside the
and “Emergency Trunk Release Handle” following.
There is a glow-in-the-dark trunk release handle
located on the latch inside the trunk. This handle
will glow following exposure to light. Pull the release
handle to open the trunk from the inside.
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Windows
{CAUTION:
Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets
in a vehicle with the windows closed is
dangerous. They can be overcome by the
extreme heat and suffer permanent
injuries or even death from heat stroke.
Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a
pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the
windows closed in warm or hot weather.
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Express-Down Window
Power Windows
The driver’s window switch has an express-down
feature labeled AUTO. This allows you to lower
the window completely without holding the switch.
Press the front of the switch to the second
position and release.
To stop the window while it is lowering, briefly pull
up on the switch.
Window Lockout
o(Window Lockout): The driver’s window
switches also include a lockout switch. Press the
right side of the switch to prevent the rear
passengers from using their window switches. The
driver can still control all the windows and the
front passenger can control their own window with
the lockout on. Press the left side of the switch
to return to normal window operation. A visible red
bar on the right side of the switch indicates that
the lockout is off.
The switches on the driver’s door armrest are
used to control each of the windows. The power
window switches work while the ignition is in RUN,
ACCESSORY, or while Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory
door has its own window switch.
To lower the window, press and hold the front of
the switch to the first position until the window is at
the desired level. To raise the window, pull up
and hold the front of the switch.
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Sun Visors
Content Theft-Deterrent
To block out glare, swing down the sun visors.
They can be detached from the center retainer and
slid along the rod to cover different areas of the
front window and turned to cover the side
windows.
Your vehicle may have the optional content
theft-deterrent alarm system.
To activate the theft-deterrent system:
1. Open the door.
2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch
or the remote keyless entry transmitter. If you
are using the remote keyless entry transmitter,
the door does not need to be open.
Visor Vanity Mirror
Swing down the sun visors and lift the cover to
expose the vanity mirror. Do not drive with
the cover lifted due to possible glare impeding
other drivers behind or to the side of the vehicle.
3. Close all doors.
Once armed, the alarm will go off if someone tries
to enter the vehicle without using the remote
keyless entry transmitter or a key or turns
the ignition on with an incorrect key. The horn will
sound and the turn signal lamps will flash for
approximately two minutes.
Theft-Deterrent Systems
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some
cities. Although your vehicle has a number of
theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we
put on it can make it impossible to steal.
When the alarm is armed, the trunk may be
opened with the remote keyless entry transmitter.
The power door lock switches are disabled
and the doors remain locked. You must use your
remote keyless entry transmitter or your key to
unlock the doors when the system is armed.
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Arming with the Power Lock Switch
Disarming with Your Key
The alarm system will arm when you use either
power lock switch to lock the doors while any door
or the trunk is open and the key is removed
from the ignition.
The alarm system will disarm when you use your
key to unlock the doors or insert your key in
ignition and turn it from the OFF position.
PASS-Key® III+
The PASS-Key® III+ system operates on a radio
frequency subject to Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry
Canada.
Arming with the Remote Keyless Entry
Transmitter
The alarm system will arm when you use your
remote keyless entry transmitter to lock the doors,
if the key is not in the ignition.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
Disarming with the Remote Keyless
Entry Transmitter
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference.
The alarm system will disarm when you use your
remote keyless entry transmitter to unlock the
doors.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
The first time a remote unlock command is
received, three flashes will be seen and three horn
chirps heard to indicate an alarm condition has
occurred since last arming.
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This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry
Canada. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
When the PASS-Key® III+ system senses that
someone is using the wrong key, it prevents the
vehicle from starting. Anyone using a trial-and-error
method to start the vehicle will be discouraged
because of the high number of electrical key codes.
1. This device may not cause interference.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
If the engine does not start and the security light
on the instrument panel cluster comes on
when trying to start the vehicle, the key may have
a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off
and try again.
Changes or modifications to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
PASS-Key® III+ uses a radio frequency
transponder in the key that matches a decoder in
your vehicle.
If the engine still does not start, and the key
appears to be undamaged, try another ignition
key. At this time, you may also want to check the
page 400. If the engine still does not start with the
other key, your vehicle needs service. If your
vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See
your dealer who can service the PASS-Key® III+
to have a new key made. In an emergency,
contact Roadside Assistance.
PASS-Key® III+ Operation
Your vehicle has PASS-Key® III+ (Personalized
Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent
system. PASS-Key® III+ is a passive
theft-deterrent system. This means you do not
have to do anything special to arm or disarm the
system. It works when you transition the key
to RUN, ACCESSORY or START from the OFF
position.
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It is possible for the PASS-Key® III+ decoder to
learn the transponder value of a new or
3. After the engine has started, turn the key to
OFF, and remove the key.
replacement key. Up to nine additional keys may
be programmed for the vehicle. The following
procedure is for programming additional keys only.
If all the currently programmed keys are lost or
do not operate, you must see your dealer or
a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to
have keys made and programmed to the system.
4. Insert the new key to be programmed and turn
it to the RUN position within five seconds of
removing the original key.
5. The security light will turn off once the key
has been programmed.
6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys
are to be programmed.
See your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key® III+ to get a new key blank that is cut
exactly as the ignition key that operates the
system.
If you are driving and the security light comes on
and stays on, you may be able to restart your
engine. Your PASS-Key® III+ system, however,
may not be working properly and must be serviced
by your dealer.
If you lose or damage your PASS-Key® III+ key,
see your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made.
To program the new additional key do the
following:
1. Verify that the new key has a 1 stamped
on it.
2. Insert the original, already programmed, key
in the ignition and start the engine. If the
engine will not start, see your dealer
for service.
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• 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 linings
can mean premature wear and earlier
replacement. Follow this breaking-in
guideline every time you get new brake
linings.
Starting and Operating Your
Vehicle
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 tow a trailer during break-in. See
trailer towing capabilities of your vehicle
and more information.
• 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.
Following break-in, engine speed and load can
be gradually increased.
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A (OFF): This is the only position in which the
ignition key can be inserted or removed. This
position locks the ignition and transaxle. It is a
theft-deterrent feature.
Ignition Positions
With the ignition key in the ignition, the key can be
turned to four different positions:
B (ACCESSORY): This position lets the radio and
windshield wipers operate while the engine is
off. To use ACCESSORY, turn the key clockwise.
C (RUN): This position is where the key returns
to after the vehicle is started. This position displays
some of the warning and indicator lights.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key
in the ACCESSORY or RUN position with the
engine off. You may not be able to start your
vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for
an extended period of time.
D (START): This position starts the engine.
Notice: Using a tool to force the key from
the ignition switch could cause damage
or break the key. Use the correct key and turn
the key only with your hand. Make sure the
key is in all the way. If none of this works,
then your vehicle needs service.
A warning chime will sound and the Driver
Information Center (DIC) will display DRIVER
DOOR OPEN when the driver’s door is opened if
the ignition is in OFF, ACCESSORY and the
key is in the ignition. See DIC Warnings
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Key In the Ignition
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
Never leave your vehicle with the keys inside, as it
is an easy target for joy riders or thieves. If you
leave the key in the ignition and park your vehicle,
a chime will sound, when you open the driver’s
door. Always remember to remove your key from
the ignition and take it with you. This will lock
your ignition and transaxle. Also, always remember
to lock the doors.
The vehicle has Retained Accessory Power (RAP),
which will allow your vehicle’s radio to work
when the ignition key is in RUN or ACCESSORY.
Once the key is turned from RUN to OFF the
radio will continue to work 10 minutes or until
the driver’s door is opened. Also, the power
windows will continue to work for up to 10 minutes
or until any door is opened.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key
in the ignition while your vehicle is parked.
You may not be able to start your vehicle after it
has been parked for an extended period of time.
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Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled
Cranking System. This feature assists in
starting the engine and protects components.
If the ignition key is turned to the START
position, and then released when the engine
begins cranking, the engine will continue
cranking for a few seconds or until the vehicle
starts. If the engine does not start and the
key is held in START for many seconds,
cranking will be stopped after 15 seconds to
prevent cranking motor damage. To prevent
gear damage, this system also prevents
cranking if the engine is already running.
Engine cranking can be stopped by turning the
ignition switch to the ACCESSORY or OFF
position.
Starting the Engine
Place the transaxle in the proper gear.
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in
any other position -- this is a safety feature.
To restart when you are already moving, use
NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice: Shifting into PARK (P) with the vehicle
moving could damage the transaxle. Shift into
PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
Starting Procedure
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn
the ignition key to START. When the engine
starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go
down as your engine gets warm. Do not
race the engine immediately after starting it.
Operate the engine and transaxle gently
for the first 2 minutes to allow the oil to warm
up and lubricate all moving parts.
Notice: Cranking the engine for long periods
of time, by returning the key to the START
position immediately after cranking has ended,
can overheat and damage the cranking
motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least
15 seconds between each try, to allow
the cranking motor to cool down.
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2. If the engine does not start after 5-10 seconds,
especially in very cold weather (below 0°F
or −18°C), it could be flooded with too much
gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator
Notice: Your engine is designed to work with
the electronics in your vehicle. If you add
electrical parts or accessories, you could
change the way the engine operates. Before
adding electrical equipment, check with
your dealer. If you do not, your engine might
not perform properly. Any resulting damage
would not be covered by your vehicle’s
warranty.
pedal all the way to the floor and holding it
there as you hold the key in START for up to
a maximum of 15 seconds. Wait at least
15 seconds between each try, to allow the
cranking motor to cool down. When the engine
starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If
the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again,
do the same thing. This clears the extra
gasoline from the engine. Do not race the
engine immediately after starting it. Operate
the engine and transaxle gently until the
oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts.
Engine Coolant Heater
Your vehicle may have this feature. In very cold
weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant
heater can help. You will get easier starting and
better fuel economy during engine warm-up.
Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a
minimum of four hours prior to starting your
vehicle. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of
the coolant heater is not required.
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4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug
and store the cord as it was before to keep it
away from moving engine parts. If you do
not, it could be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater
plugged in? The answer depends on the outside
temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some
other things. Instead of trying to list everything here,
we ask that you contact your dealer in the area
where you will be parking your vehicle. The dealer
can give you the best advice for that particular area.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical
cord. The cord is attached to the underside
of the diagonal brace, which is located above
the engine air cleaner/filter assembly.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt
AC outlet.
{CAUTION:
Active Fuel Management™
(3.9L V6 and 5.3L V8 Engines)
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded
outlet could cause an electrical shock.
Also, the wrong kind of extension cord
could overheat and cause a fire. You
could be seriously injured. Plug the cord
into a properly grounded three-prong
110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will not
reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
Your vehicle’s engine may be equipped with
Active Fuel Management™. This system allows
the engine to operate on either all or half of
its cylinders, depending on your driving conditions.
When less power is required, such as cruising
at a constant vehicle speed, the system will
operate in the half cylinder mode, allowing your
vehicle to achieve better fuel economy. When
greater power demands are required, such
as accelerating from a stop, passing, or merging
onto a freeway, the system will maintain
full-cylinder operation.
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Automatic Transaxle Operation
{CAUTION:
Your automatic transaxle has a shift lever on the
steering column or on the console between
the seats.
It can be dangerous to get out of your
vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in
PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set.
Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured.
To be sure your vehicle will not move, even
when you are on fairly level ground, use
the steps that follow. If you are pulling a
There is a display, located on the instrument panel
cluster that will indicate the gear the vehicle is in.
Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic
transaxle vehicles while you are in PARK (P)
or NEUTRAL (N) to protect driveline components
from improper operation.
Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P)
before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an
automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You
must fully apply your regular brakes first and
then press the shift lever button before you can
shift from PARK (P) while the ignition is in RUN. If
you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure
on the shift lever and push the shift lever all
the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake
application. Then press the shift lever button and
move the shift lever into another gear. See
There are several different positions for the shift
lever.
PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels.
It is the best position to use when the engine is
started because your vehicle cannot move easily.
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REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.
CAUTION: (Continued)
Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your
vehicle is moving forward could damage the
transaxle. The repairs would not be covered by
your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after
your vehicle is stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of
snow, ice, or sand without damaging your
transaxle, see If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand,
very rapidly. You could lose control and
hit people or objects. Do not shift into a
drive gear while your engine is running at
high speed.
Notice: Shifting out of PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N) while the engine is running at
high speed may damage the transaxle.
The repairs would not be covered by your
warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at
high speeds when shifting your vehicle.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine does
not connect with the wheels. To restart when
you are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is
being towed.
DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. It
provides the best fuel economy for your vehicle. If
you need more power for passing, and you are:
{CAUTION:
• Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push
the accelerator pedal about halfway down.
Shifting into a drive gear while your
engine is running at high speed is
dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on
the brake pedal, your vehicle could move
• Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push
the accelerator pedal all the way down.
You will shift down to the next gear and have
more power.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Downshifting the transaxle in slippery road
conditions could result in skidding, see “Skidding”
Notice: Driving in SECOND (2) for more than
25 miles (40 km) or at speeds over 55 mph
(90 km/h) may damage the transaxle. Also,
shifting into SECOND (2) at speeds above
65 mph (105 km/h) can cause damage. Drive in
THIRD (3) or DRIVE (D) instead of SECOND (2).
Notice: Driving your vehicle if you notice that
it is moving slowly or not shifting gears as
you increase speed may damage the transaxle.
Have your vehicle serviced right away. You
can drive in SECOND (2) when you are driving
less than 35 mph (55 km/h) and DRIVE (D)
for higher speeds until then.
FIRST (1): This position reduces vehicle speed
even more than SECOND (2) without using
your brakes. You can use it on very steep hills, or
in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is in
FIRST (1) while the vehicle is moving forward, the
transaxle will not shift into first gear until the
vehicle is going slowly enough.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal
driving. However, it reduces vehicle speed
more than DRIVE (D) without using your brakes.
You might choose THIRD (3) instead of DRIVE (D)
when driving on hilly, winding roads, when
towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between
gears and when going down a steep hill.
Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the
vehicle in one place on a hill using only the
accelerator pedal may damage the transaxle. If
you are stuck, do not spin the tires. When
stopping on a hill, use the brakes, or parking
brake to hold the vehicle in place.
SECOND (2): This position reduces vehicle speed
even more than THIRD (3) without using your
brakes. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can
help control your speed as you go down steep
mountain roads. You would also then want to use
your brakes off and on.
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To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal
down with your right foot and push the parking
brake pedal with your left foot. When you lift your
left foot, the parking brake pedal will follow it
to the released position.
Parking Brake
The parking brake is
located to the left of the
brake pedal, near the
driver’s door.
A warning chime will sound and a brake warning
light located on the instrument panel cluster
will come on, if the parking brake is set, the ignition
is on and the vehicle speed is greater than
5 mph (8 km/h).
Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can
overheat the brake system and cause
premature wear or damage to brake system
parts. Verify that the parking brake is fully
released and the brake warning light is
off before driving.
To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal
down with your right foot. Push down the parking
brake pedal with your left foot.
If you are towing a trailer and parking on any hill,
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Steering Column Shift Lever
Shifting Into Park (P)
1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot
and set the parking brake.
{CAUTION:
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by pulling
the shift lever toward you and moving it up as
far as it will go.
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle
if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P)
with the parking brake firmly set. Your
vehicle can roll.
3. Turn the ignition key to OFF.
4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you
can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in
your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).
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
are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer
on page 286.
Console Shift Lever
1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot
and set the parking brake.
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by holding
in 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 OFF.
4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you
can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in
your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).
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it toward you or if you have the console shift lever,
without first pushing the button. If you can, it
means that the shift lever was not fully locked into
PARK (P).
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine
Running
{CAUTION:
Torque Lock
If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift
your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight
of the vehicle may put too much force on the
parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find
it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock,
set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P)
properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To
page 121.
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle
with the engine running. Your vehicle
could move suddenly if the shift lever is
not fully in PARK (P) with the parking
brake firmly set. And, if you leave the
vehicle with the engine running, it could
overheat and even catch fire. You or
others could be injured. Do not leave your
vehicle with the engine running.
When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever
out of PARK (P) before you release the parking
brake.
If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine
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
the PARK (P) position, hold the regular brake
pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift
lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling
If torque lock does occur, you may need to have
another vehicle push yours a little uphill to
take some of the pressure from the parking pawl
in the transaxle, so you can pull the shift lever
out of PARK (P).
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Shifting Out of Park (P)
Parking Over Things That Burn
Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock
control system. You must fully apply your
regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P)
when the ignition is in RUN. See Automatic
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure
on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into
PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed
down. Release the shift lever button if you
have a console shift. Then move the shift lever out
of PARK (P), being sure to press the shift lever
button if you have a console shift.
If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still
cannot shift out of PARK (P), try this:
1. Turn the ignition key to RUN.
2. Apply and hold the brake pedal down until the
end of Step 4.
{CAUTION:
3. Shift to NEUTRAL.
Things that can burn could touch hot
exhaust parts under your vehicle and
ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves,
dry grass, or other things that can burn.
4. Start the engine and shift to the drive gear
you want.
5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.
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Engine Exhaust
CAUTION: (Continued)
• Repairs were not done correctly.
• Your vehicle or exhaust system has
been modified improperly.
{CAUTION:
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the
gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you
cannot see or smell. It can cause
unconsciousness and death.
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into
your vehicle:
• Drive it only with all the windows
down to blow out any CO; and
• Have your vehicle fixed immediately.
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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Running the Engine While Parked
{CAUTION:
It is better not to park with the engine running. But if
you 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 the parking brake firmly
set. Your vehicle can roll. Do not leave
your vehicle when the engine is running
unless you have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured.
To be sure your vehicle will not move,
even when you are on fairly level ground,
always set your parking brake and move
the shift lever to PARK (P).
{CAUTION:
Idling the engine with the climate control
system off could allow dangerous exhaust
into your vehicle. See the earlier caution
Also, idling in a closed-in place can let
deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your
vehicle even if the climate control fan is at
the highest setting. One place this can
happen is a garage. Exhaust — with
CO — can come in easily. NEVER park in
a garage with the engine running.
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle
page 121.
Another closed-in place can be a blizzard.
If you are parking on a hill and if you are pulling a
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There are two map lamps located on the bottom
of the mirror. Press the button next to each lamp to
turn it on and off.
There are also OnStar® buttons located at the
bottom of the mirror face. See your dealer for more
information on the system and how to subscribe to
more information about the services OnStar®
provides.
Mirrors
Manual Rearview Mirror
If the vehicle has this mirror, it has a lever located at
the bottom of the mirror between the two lamps.
The lever is used to change the mirror from the day
to the night position. To reduce glare from
headlamps behind you while driving at night, pull
the lever toward you. To return the mirror to the day
position, return the lever to its original position.
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror
with OnStar®
There are two map lamps located on the bottom
of the mirror. Press the button next to each lamp to
turn it on and off.
The vehicle may have an automatic dimming
rearview mirror with the OnStar® System.
Manual Rearview Mirror with
OnStar®
Press the button located below the mirror, on the
far left, for up to three seconds to turn the
automatic dimming feature off and on.
If the vehicle has this mirror, it has a lever located
at the bottom of the mirror between the two
lamps. The lever is used to change the mirror
from the day to the night position. To reduce glare
from headlamps behind you while driving at
night, pull the lever toward you. To return the
mirror to the day position, return the lever
to its original position.
There are two map lamps located on the bottom
of the mirror. Press the button next to each lamp to
turn it on and off.
There are also OnStar® buttons located at the
bottom of the mirror. See your dealer for more
information on the system and how to subscribe to
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more information about the service OnStar®
provides.
Heated Outside Mirrors
If your vehicle has this feature, the surface of the
outside mirrors will heat when the rear window
defogger is activated. See “Rear Window
page 166 for more information.
Outside Power Mirrors
The controls for the
outside power mirrors
are located on the
Outside Convex Mirror
driver’s door armrest.
Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex
mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more
from the driver’s seat.
{CAUTION:
A convex mirror can make things (like
other vehicles) look farther away than
they really are. If you cut too sharply into
the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on
your right. Check your inside mirror or
glance over your shoulder before
changing lanes.
Use the selector switch located below the four-way
control panel to choose either the left or right
outside mirror. Then press any of the four arrows
located on the control pad to move each mirror
in the desired direction.
Adjust each mirror so you can see the side of your
vehicle and the area beside and behind your
vehicle.
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Conditions are included in the vehicle’s OnStar®
Subscriber glove box literature. For more
information, visit onstar.com or onstar.ca, contact
OnStar® at 1–888–4–ONSTAR (1–888–466–7827)
or TTY 1–877–248–2080, or press the OnStar®
button to speak with an OnStar® advisor 24 hours a
day, 7 days a week.
OnStar® System
Not all OnStar® features are available on all
vehicles. To check if your vehicle is equipped to
provide the services described below, or for a
full description of OnStar® services and system
limitations, see the OnStar® Owner’s Guide in your
glove box or visit onstar.com.
OnStar® uses several innovative technologies and
live advisors to provide you with a wide range
of safety, security, information, and convenience
services. If your airbags deploy, the system is
designed to make an automatic call to OnStar®
Emergency advisors who can request emergency
services be sent to your location. If you lock
your keys in the vehicle, call OnStar® at
OnStar® Services
For new vehicles equipped with OnStar®, the Safe
& Sound Plan, or the Directions & Connections®
Plan is included for one year from the date of
purchase. You can extend this plan beyond the
first year, or upgrade to the Directions &
1-888-4-ONSTAR and they can send a signal to
unlock your doors. If you need roadside
assistance, press the OnStar® button and they
can contact Roadside Service for you.
Connections® Plan. For more information, press
the OnStar® button to speak with an advisor. Some
OnStar® services (such as Remote Door Unlock
or Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance) may not be
available until you register with OnStar®.
OnStar® service is provided to you subject to the
OnStar® Terms and Conditions. You may cancel
your OnStar® service at any time by contacting
OnStar® as provided below. A complete OnStar®
Owner’s Guide and the OnStar® Terms and
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Available Services with Safe &
Sound® Plan
Available Services included with
Directions & Connections® Plan
• Automatic Notification of Airbag Deployment
• All Safe and Sound Plan Services
• Advanced Automatic Crash Notification
(AACN) (If equipped)
• Driving Directions - Advisor delivered or
OnStar® Turn-by-Turn Navigation (If equipped)
• Link to Emergency Services
• Roadside Assistance
• RideAssist
• Information and Convenience Services
OnStar® Hands-Free Calling
• Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance
• AccidentAssist
• Remote Door Unlock/Vehicle Alert
• OnStar® Vehicle Diagnostics
• GM® Goodwrench® On Demand Diagnostics
• OnStar® Hands-Free Calling with 30
complimentary minutes
• OnStar® Virtual Advisor
OnStar® Hands-Free Calling allows eligible
OnStar® subscribers to make and receive calls
using voice commands. Hands-Free Calling is fully
integrated into the vehicle, and can be used
with OnStar® Pre-Paid Minute Packages.
Hands-Free Calling may also be linked to a
Verizon Wireless service plan, depending on
eligibility. To find out more, refer to the OnStar®
Owner’s Guide in the vehicle’s glove box, visit
www.onstar.com or www.onstar.ca, or speak with
an OnStar® advisor by pressing the OnStar®
button or calling 1-888-4-ONSTAR
(1-888-466-7827).
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OnStar® Virtual Advisor
How OnStar® Service Works
OnStar® Virtual Advisor is a feature of OnStar®
Hands-Free Calling that uses your minutes
to access location-based weather, local traffic
reports, and stock quotes. By pressing the phone
button and giving a few simple voice commands,
you can browse through the various topics.
See the OnStar® Owner’s Guide for more
information.
In order to provide you with OnStar® services,
your vehicle’s OnStar® system has the capability
of recording and transmitting vehicle information.
This information is automatically sent to an
OnStar® Call Center at the time of an OnStar®
button press, Emergency button press or if
your airbags or AACN system deploys. The vehicle
information usually includes your GPS location
and, in the event of a crash, additional information
regarding the accident that your vehicle has
been involved in (e.g. the direction from which
your vehicle was hit). When you use the Virtual
Advisor feature of OnStar® Hands-Free Calling,
your vehicle also sends OnStar® your GPS
location so that we can provide you with
location-based services.
OnStar® Steering Wheel Controls
Your vehicle may have a Talk/Mute button that
can be used to interact with OnStar® Hands-Free
page 242 for more information.
On some vehicles, you may have to hold the
button for a few seconds and give the command
“ONSTAR” in order to activate the OnStar®
Hands-Free Calling feature.
On some vehicles, the mute button can be used to
dial numbers into voicemail systems, or to dial
phone extensions. See the OnStar® Owner’s
Guide for more information.
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OnStar® service cannot work unless your vehicle
is in a place where OnStar® has an agreement
with a wireless service provider for service in that
area. OnStar® service also cannot work unless
you are in a place where the wireless service
provider OnStar® has hired for that area
has coverage, network capacity and reception
when the service is needed, and technology that
is compatible with the OnStar® service. Not all
services are available everywhere, particularly in
remote or enclosed areas, or at all times.
Your vehicle must have a working electrical
system (including adequate battery power) for the
OnStar® equipment to operate. There are other
problems OnStar® cannot control that may prevent
OnStar® from providing OnStar® service to you
at any particular time or place. Some examples are
damage to important parts of your vehicle in an
accident, hills, tall buildings, tunnels, weather
or wireless phone network congestion.
Your Responsibility
OnStar® service that involves location information
about your vehicle cannot work unless GPS
satellite signals are unobstructed and available in
that place as well.
You may need to increase the volume of your
radio to hear the OnStar® advisor. If the light next
to the OnStar® buttons is red, this means that
your system is not functioning properly and should
be checked by a dealer. If the light appears
clear (no light is appearing), your OnStar®
subscription has expired. You can always press
the blue OnStar® button to confirm that your
OnStar® equipment is active.
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This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry
Canada. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
Universal Home Remote
System
1. This device may not cause interference.
Universal Home Remote System
(With Three Round LED)
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
The Universal Home Remote System provides a
way to replace up to three hand-held
Radio-Frequency (RF) transmitters used to
activate devices such as garage door openers,
security systems, and home lighting.
The Canadian Registration ID number is
3521A-GTE05A.
Changes or modifications to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
Universal Home Remote System
(With One Triangular LED)
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference.
The Universal Home Remote System provides a
way to replace up to three hand-held
radio-frequency (RF) transmitters used to activate
devices such as garage door openers, security
systems, and home lighting.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
The FCC Grant of Equipment Authorization
Certificate number is KOBGTE05A.
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This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
Universal Home Remote System
Operation (With three round LED)
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
The FCC Grant of Equipment Authorization
Certificate number is CB2SAHL3.
Your vehicle may have the Universal Home Remote
System. If there are three round Light Emitting
Diode (LED) above the Universal Home Remote
System buttons, follow the instructions below. If
there is one triangular LED above the Universal
Home Remote System buttons, follow the
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry
Canada. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
instructions under Universal Home Remote System
Operation (with one triangular LED).
This system provides a way to replace up to three
remote control transmitters used to activate
devices such as garage door openers, security
systems, and home lighting.
The Canadian Registration ID number is
2791021849A.
Changes or modifications to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
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Do not use the this system with any garage door
opener that does not have the stop and reverse
feature. This includes any garage door opener
model manufactured before April 1, 1982.
Read the instructions completely before attempting
to program the transmitter. Because of the steps
involved, it may be helpful to have another
person available to assist you in programming the
transmitter.
Be sure to keep the original remote control
transmitter for use in other vehicles, as well as, for
future programming. You only need the original
remote control transmitter for fixed code
programming. It is also recommended that upon
the sale or lease termination of the vehicle,
the programmed buttons should be erased for
security purposes. See “Erasing your Universal
Home Remote Buttons” later in this section.
If you do not know if your garage door opener is a
fixed code or rolling code device, open your
garage door opener’s remote control battery cover.
Your garage door opener is a fixed code device
if there is a panel of switches. If not, your
garage door opener is a rolling code device.
Be sure that people and objects are clear of the
garage door or security device you are
programming. When programming a garage door,
it is advised to park outside of the garage.
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Programming Universal Home
Remote — Fixed Code
Fixed Code garage door openers are used for
garage doors produced prior to 1996. Fixed code
uses the same coded signal every time, which
is manually programmed by setting DIP switches
for a unique personal code.
Follow these steps to program up to three
channels:
1. Remove the battery cover of the hand-held
transmitter.
Example of Switch Settings
2. Write down the eight to 12 coding switch
settings from left to right. When the switch
is in the up position, write “on,” and when a
switch is in the down position, write “off”.
If a switch is set between the up and down
position, write “middle”.
3. Enter these positions into the Universal Home
Remote System as follows.
Press and release all three buttons at the same
time to put the device into programming mode.
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6. Press and hold the button you would like to
use to control the garage door until the
garage door moves. The indicator light above
the selected button should slowly blink.
You may need to hold the button from five to
55 seconds.
7. Immediately release the button when the
garage door moves. The indicator light will
blink rapidly until programming is complete.
8. Press and release the button again. The
garage door should move, confirming that
programming is successful and complete.
To program another device such as an additional
garage door opener, a security device, or
home lighting, repeat Steps 1–8, choosing a
different function button in Step 7 than what you
used for the garage door opener.
4. The indicator light will blink slowly.
In order from left to right, and within two and
one-half minutes, enter each switch setting
into the Universal Home Remote System.
Push one button for each switch as follows:
• Left button = “on” switch position.
• Right button = “off” switch position.
• Middle button = “middle” switch position.
5. After entering the switch settings, press and
release all three buttons at the same time.
The indicator lights will turn on.
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Programming Universal Home
Remote — Rolling Code
Rolling code garage door openers are used for
garage doors produced after 1996 and are
code protected. Rolling code means the coded
signal is changed every time your remote control
garage door opener is used.
Programming a rolling code garage door opener
involves time-sensitive actions, so read the
entire procedure before you begin. If you do not
follow these actions, the device will time out
and you will have to repeat the procedure.
Follow these steps to program up to
three channels:
2. Go to the garage. Locate the garage door
motor head and press and release the
“learn” button.
1. Press the two outside buttons at the same
time for one to two seconds, and immediately
release them.
After pressing the “learn” button, you have
10 to 30 seconds to complete Step 4
depending on your garage control unit. If you
cannot locate the “learn” button, refer to
the owners guide for your garage door opener.
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3. Press and hold the button you would like to
use to control the garage door until the
garage door moves. The indicator light, above
the selected button, should slowly blink.
You may need to hold the button from five to
20 seconds.
Reprogramming Universal Home
Remote Buttons
You can reprogram any of the three buttons by
repeating the instructions.
Erasing Universal Home Remote
Buttons
4. Immediately release the button when the
garage door moves. The indicator light will
blink rapidly until programming is complete.
You should erase the programmed buttons when
you sell the vehicle or terminate your lease.
5. Press and release the button again. The
garage door should move, confirming that
programming is successful and complete.
To erase either rolling code or fixed code on the
Universal Home Remote device, do the following:
To program another device such as an additional
garage door opener, a security device, or
home lighting, repeat Steps 1–6, choosing a
different function button in Step 4 than what you
used for the garage door opener.
1. Press and hold the two outside buttons at
the same time for approximately 20 seconds,
until the indicator lights, located directly
above the buttons, begin to blink rapidly.
2. Once the indicator lights begin to blink,
release both buttons. The codes from all
button will be erased.
Using Universal Home Remote
Press and hold the appropriate button for at least
half of a second. The indicator light will come
on while the signal is being transmitted.
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Read the instructions completely before attempting
to program the Universal Home Remote.
Because of the steps involved, it may be helpful to
have another person available to assist you in
the programming steps.
Universal Home Remote System
Operation (With one triangular LED)
Keep the original hand-held transmitter for use in
other vehicles as well as for future Universal
Home Remote programming. It is also
recommended that upon the sale of the vehicle,
the programmed Universal Home Remote buttons
should be erased for security purposes. See
“Erasing Universal Home Remote Buttons” later in
this section or, for assistance, see Customer
Your vehicle may have the Universal Home
Remote System. If there is one triangular Light
Emitting Diode (LED) above the Universal
Home Remote buttons, follow the instructions
below. If your vehicle has three round LED above
the Universal Home Remote buttons, follow the
instructions under Universal Home Remote System
Operation (With three round LED).
Be sure that people and objects are clear of the
garage door or gate operator you are
programming. When programming a garage door,
it is advised to park outside of the garage.
Do not use the Universal Home Remote with any
garage door opener that does not have the stop
and reverse feature. This includes any garage door
opener model manufactured before April 1, 1982.
If you have a newer garage door opener with rolling
codes, please be sure to follow Steps 6 through 8 to
complete the programming of your Universal Home
Remote Transmitter.
It is recommended that a new battery be installed
in your hand-held transmitter for quicker and
more accurate transmission of the radio-frequency
signal.
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4. The indicator light will flash slowly at first and
then rapidly after Universal Home Remote
successfully receives the frequency signal
from the hand-held transmitter. Release both
buttons.
Programming Universal Home Remote
Follow these steps to program up to three
channels:
1. Press and hold down the two outside
Universal Home Remote buttons, releasing
only when the Universal Home Remote
indicator light begins to flash, after
5. Press and hold the newly-trained Universal
Home Remote button and observe the
indicator light.
20 seconds. Do not hold down the buttons for
longer than 30 seconds and do not repeat
this step to program a second and/or
third hand-held transmitter to the remaining
two Universal Home Remote buttons.
If the indicator light stays on continuously,
programming is complete and your device
should activate when the Universal Home
Remote button is pressed and released.
To program the remaining two Universal Home
Remote buttons, begin with Step 2 under
“Programming Universal Home Remote.”
Do not repeat Step 1 as this will erase all of
the programmed channels.
2. Position the end of your hand-held transmitter
about 1 to 3 inches (3 to 8 cm) away from the
Universal Home Remote buttons while
keeping the indicator light in view.
3. Simultaneously press and hold both the
desired Universal Home Remote button
and the hand-held transmitter button. Do not
release the buttons until Step 4 has been
completed.
If the indicator light blinks rapidly for
two seconds and then turns to a constant light,
continue with Steps 6 through 8 following to
complete the programming of a rolling-code
device, most commonly, a garage door opener.
Some entry gates and garage door openers
may require you to substitute Step 3 with
the procedure noted in “Gate Operator and
Canadian Programming” later in this section.
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6. Locate in the garage, the garage door opener
receiver (motor-head unit). Locate the “Learn”
or “Smart” button. This can usually be
found where the hanging antenna wire is
attached to the motor-head unit.
Gate Operator and Canadian
Programming
Canadian radio-frequency laws require transmitter
signals to time out or quit after several seconds
of transmission. This may not be long enough
for Universal Home Remote to pick up the signal
during programming. Similarly, some U.S. gate
operators are manufactured to time out in
the same manner.
7. Firmly press and release the “Learn” or
“Smart” button. The name and color of
the button may vary by manufacturer.
You will have 30 seconds to start Step 8.
8. Return to the vehicle. Firmly press and hold
the programmed Universal Home Remote
button for two seconds, then release. Repeat
the press/hold/release sequence a second
time, and depending on the brand of the
garage door opener, or other rolling code
device, repeat this sequence a third time to
complete the programming.
If you live in Canada, or you are having difficulty
programming a gate operator or garage door
opener by using the “Programming Universal
Home Remote” procedures, regardless of where
you live, replace Step 3 under “Programming
Universal Home Remote” with the following:
Continue to press and hold the Universal Home
Remote button while you press and release every
two seconds (cycle) the hand-held transmitter
button until the frequency signal has been
successfully accepted by the Universal Home
Remote. The Universal Home Remote indicator
light will flash slowly at first and then rapidly.
Proceed with Step 4 under “Programming
Universal Home Remote” to complete.
The Universal Home Remote should now
activate the rolling-code device.
To program the remaining two Universal Home
Remote buttons, begin with Step 2 of
“Programming Universal Home Remote.” You do
not want to repeat Step 1, as this will erase
all previous programming from the Universal Home
Remote buttons.
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Using Universal Home Remote
Reprogramming a Single Universal
Home Remote Button
Press and hold the appropriate Universal Home
Remote button for at least half of a second.
The indicator light will come on while the signal is
being transmitted.
To program a device to Universal Home Remote
using a Universal Home Remote button
previously trained, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold the desired Universal Home
Remote button. Do not release the button.
Erasing Universal Home Remote
Buttons
2. The indicator light will begin to flash after
20 seconds. While still holding the Universal
Home Remote button, proceed with Step 2
under “Programming Universal Home Remote”
shown earlier in this section.
To erase programming from the three Universal
Home Remote buttons do the following:
1. Press and hold down the two outside buttons
until the indicator light begins to flash, after
20 seconds. Do not hold the two outside
buttons for longer than 30 seconds.
For additional information on Universal Home
Remote, see Customer Assistance Offices
on page 432.
2. Release both buttons.
The Universal Home Remote is now in the training
(learning) mode and can be programmed at any
time beginning with Step 2 under “Programming
Universal Home Remote” shown earlier in
this section.
Storage Areas
Glove Box
To open the glove box, lift up on the lever.
Individual buttons cannot be erased, but they can
be reprogrammed. See “Reprogramming a
Single Universal Home Remote Button” following
this section.
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Cupholder(s)
Center Console Storage Area
Your vehicle may have cupholders built into the
front center console, front portion of the front
center seat and rear armrest. To access the front
cupholders, on the five-passenger model, pull
out the divider in front of the front center console
to separate the opening into two cupholders.
To access the front cupholders, on the
Your vehicle may have a front center console
storage area. To open the front center console
storage area, pull up on the latch located in
the front of the console lid. Inside is a removable
tray and an accessory power outlet.
Rear Storage Area
six-passenger model, fold the front portion of the
front center seat forward.
If your vehicle has the split folding rear seat, there
will be two storage areas underneath. To access
these storage areas, pull the tab(s) located by the
seatbelt buckle on the passenger side and the
center of the rear seat on the driver side. See Split
information.
Sunglasses Storage Compartment
Your vehicle may have a sunglass storage
compartment located above the rearview mirror.
To open, push on cover.
Do not operate the vehicle with the sunglasses
storage compartment cover open, it could obstruct
your view.
Rear Seat Armrest
Your vehicle may have a rear seat armrest.
To access, pull the tab on the armrest forward.
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Q(Vent/Express-Open): To vent the sunroof
when it is closed, press this switch once.
When using the vent, the sunshade should be fully
opened. The sunshade can be opened or closed
manually by sliding it rearward or forward.
Convenience Net
The vehicle may have a convenience net located
on the back wall of the trunk.
The net is not for larger, heavier loads. Store
those in the trunk as far forward as possible.
From the vent position, press this switch again to
activate the express-open feature. Press the
close switch to stop movement of the sunroof. The
sunshade will automatically open when using
express-open.
Unhook the net so that it will lie flat when not
in use.
Sunroof
A deflector will automatically pop up when the
sunroof is opened. The deflector will retract when
the sunroof is closed.
If your vehicle is
equipped with a
sunroof, the sunroof
switches are located on
the overhead console.
R(Close): To close the sunroof, press and hold
this switch until the sunroof motor stops, or
release the switch when the desired position has
been reached.
The sunroof can only be operated when the
ignition is in ACCESSORY, RUN, or when
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See
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Section 3
Instrument Panel
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✍ NOTES
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The main components of your instrument panel are listed here:
B. Remote Trunk Release Button. See “Remote
page 150.
page 307.
P. Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped).
page 242.
page 112.
G. Passenger Air Bag status Indicator. See
page 213.
page 158.
on page 166.
T. Center Console Shift Lever (If Equipped). See
“Console Shift Lever” under Shifting Into
K. Traction Control On/Off Button (If Equipped).
page 256.
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Hazard Warning Flashers
Other Warning Devices
Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others.
They also let police know you have a problem.
Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on
and off.
If you carry reflective triangles, you can set them up
at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m)
behind your vehicle.
Horn
The hazard warning
flasher button is located
on top of the steering
column.
Press near or on the horn symbols on your
steering wheel pad to sound the horn.
Tilt Wheel
A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel
before you drive. The steering wheel can be
raised to the highest level to give your legs more
room when you enter and exit the vehicle.
Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what
position your key is in, and even if the key is not in.
Press the button to make the front and rear turn
signal lamps flash on and off. Press the button
again to turn the flashers off.
The tilt wheel lever is located on the left side of
the steering column.
When the hazard warning flashers are on, your
turn signals will not work.
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Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
The lever on the left side of the steering column
includes the following:
To tilt the wheel, hold the wheel and pull the lever.
Then move the wheel to a comfortable position
and release the lever to lock the wheel in place.
• G Turn and Lane Change Signals. See
• 2 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer. See
page 153.
page 153.
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To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the
lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it
there until you complete your lane change. The
lever will return by itself when you release it. If you
momentarily press and release the lever, the
turn signal will flash three times.
For information on the headlamps, see Exterior
If the arrow flashes faster than normal as you
signal a turn or a lane change, a signal bulb may
be burned out and other drivers won’t see
your turn signal.
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
The turn signal has two upward (for right) and
two downward (for left) positions. These positions
allow you to signal a turn or a lane change.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an
accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when
you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and
then check the fuse. See Fuses and Circuit
To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or
down. When the turn is finished, the lever will
return automatically.
Turn Signal On Chime
An arrow on the
If you leave either one of your turn signals on and
drive more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km), a chime will
sound to alert you.
instrument panel cluster
will flash in the
direction of the turn or
lane change.
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Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
Windshield Wipers
To change the headlamps from low beam to
high beam, push the turn signal/multifunction lever
away from you.
Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades
before using them. If they are frozen to the
windshield, gently loosen or thaw them. Damaged
wiper blades may not clear the windshield well,
making it harder to see and drive safely. If the
blades do become damaged, install new blades or
blade inserts. For more information, see Windshield
When the high beams
are on, a light on the
instrument panel cluster
also will be on if the
ignition is on.
Heavy snow or ice can overload the wiper motor. A
circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools down.
Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.
To change the headlamps from high beam to low
beam, pull the turn signal lever toward you.
You control the windshield wipers by turning the
band with the wiper symbol on it.
8 (Mist): For a single wiping cycle, turn the
band to mist. Hold it there until the wipers
start. Then let go. The wipers will stop after one
wipe. If you want more wipe cycles, hold the band
on mist longer.
Flash-to-Pass
With the turn signal lever in the low-beam position,
pull the lever toward you momentarily to switch to
high-beams (to signal that you are going to pass).
If you have the headlamps on, they will return to
low-beams when you release the lever.
6 (Delay): You can set the wiper speed for a long
or short delay between wiping cycles. This can
be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band
to choose the delay time. The closer to the top
of the lever, the shorter the delay.
This feature operates even when the headlamps
are off.
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6 (Low Speed): For steady wiping at low
speed, turn the band away from you to the
first solid band past the delay settings.
{CAUTION:
In freezing weather, do not use your
washer until the windshield is warmed.
Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice
on the windshield, blocking your vision.
1 (High Speed): For high-speed wiping, turn
the band further, to the second solid band past the
delay settings.
9 (Off): To stop the wipers, move the band
to off.
When the vehicle is low on washer fluid, the
WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID displays in the
Driver Information Center (DIC) for 60 seconds.
When the ignition is turned off, this message
displays again for three seconds to remind you
that the fluid level is low.
Windshield Washer
At the top of the multifunction lever, there is a
paddle with the windshield washer symbol on it.
Push the paddle to spray washer fluid on the
windshield. The wipers run for several sweeps and
then either stop or return to the preset speed.
The ignition key must be in ACCESSORY or RUN
for this to work. See Windshield Washer Fluid
on page 336.
Until the fluid reservoir is refilled, every time
the vehicle is started, the WASHER FLUID LOW
ADD FLUID message displays in the DIC for
60 seconds. Be sure to refill the tank right away.
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Cruise Control
CAUTION: (Continued)
With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of
about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without
Cruise control can be dangerous on
slippery roads. On such roads, fast
changes in tire traction can cause
excessive wheel slip, and you could lose
control. Do not use cruise control on
slippery roads.
keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can
really help on long trips. Cruise control does not
work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h).
{CAUTION:
Cruise control can be dangerous where
you cannot drive safely at a steady speed.
So, do not use your cruise control on
winding roads or in heavy traffic.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the
traction control system, if your vehicle has this
feature, begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise
control will automatically disengage. See Traction
road conditions allow you to safely use it again,
the cruise control can be turned back on.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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The cruise control
buttons are located on
left side of the
Setting Cruise Control
Cruise control will not work if the parking brake is
set, or if the master cylinder brake fluid level is low.
steering wheel.
The cruise control light on the instrument panel
cluster will come on after the cruise control
has been set to the desired speed.
{CAUTION:
If you leave your cruise control on when
you are not using cruise, you might hit a
button and go into cruise when you do
not want to. You could be startled and
even lose control. Keep the cruise control
switch off until you want to use cruise
control.
T (On/Off): Press this button to turn cruise
control on and off. The indicator will be lit
when cruise control is on.
+ RES (Resume/Accelerate): Press this button
to make the vehicle accelerate or resume to
a previously set speed.
SET–: Press this button to set the speed or make
the vehicle decelerate.
1. Press the cruise control on/off button.
2. Get up to the speed you want.
[ (Cancel): Press this button to cancel cruise
control.
3. Press and release the SET– button located on
the steering wheel.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator.
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Resuming a Set Speed
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise
Control
Suppose you set the cruise control at a desired
speed and then you apply the brake. This shuts
off the cruise control, but it does not need to
be reset.
To reduce your speed while using cruise control:
• Press and hold the SET– button on the
steering wheel until you reach the lower speed
you want, then release it.
Once you are driving about 25 mph (40 km/h) or
more, press the +RES button on the steering
wheel. The vehicle will go back to your chosen
speed and stay there.
• To slow down in very small amounts, press
the SET– button on the steering wheel
briefly. Each time this is done, you will go
about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise
Control
Passing Another Vehicle While Using
Cruise Control
To increase the cruise speed while using cruise
control:
Use the accelerator pedal to increase vehicle
speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, the
vehicle will slow down to the cruise speed you
set earlier.
• Press and hold the +RES button on the
steering wheel until you reach your new
desired speed, then release it.
• To increase vehicle speed in small increments,
press the +RES button.
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Using Cruise Control on Hills
Exterior Lamps
How well the cruise control will work on hills
depends upon the vehicle speed, load and the
steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills,
you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to
maintain your speed. When going downhill, you
may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep
your speed down. Of course, applying the brake
ends the cruise control. Many drivers find this to be
too much trouble and do not use cruise control on
steep hills.
The exterior lamps
control is located on the
instrument panel to
the left of the steering
wheel.
It controls the following systems:
• Headlamps
Ending Cruise Control
There are three ways to end cruise control:
• Step lightly on the brake pedal.
• Taillamps
• Parking Lamps
• License Plate Lamps
• Instrument Panel Lights
• Fog Lamps (if equipped)
• Press the [ (cancel) button on the steering
wheel.
• Press the T (on/off) button on the steering
wheel.
Erasing Speed Memory
The cruise control set speed memory is erased by
turning off the cruise control or the ignition.
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The exterior lamps control has four positions:
2(Headlamps): Turn the control to this position
to turn on the headlamps together with the
following lamps listed below. A warning chime will
sound if you open the driver’s door when the
ignition switch is off and the headlamps are on.
O (Off): Briefly turn the control to this position to
turn off the automatic light control. Briefly turn
to this position again to turn automatic light control
on again.
• Parking Lamps
• Taillamps
• License Plate Lamps
• Instrument Panel Lights
AUTO (Automatic): Turn the control to this
position to automatically turn on the headlamps at
normal brightness, together with the following:
• Parking Lamps
• Taillamps
-(Fog Lamps, If Equipped): Push the fog
lamps control in to turn on the fog lamps.
• License Plate Lamps
• Instrument Panel Lights
;(Parking Lamps): Turn the control to this
position to turn on the parking lamps together with
the following:
• Taillamps
• License Plate Lamps
• Instrument Panel Lights
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Delayed Headlamps
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)/
Automatic Headlamp System
The delayed headlamps feature provides a period
of exterior lighting as you leave the area around
your vehicle. The feature is activated when
the headlamps are on due to the automatic
headlamps control feature described previously in
this section, and when the ignition is turned off.
Your headlamps will then remain on until the
exterior lamps control is moved to the parking
lamps position or until the pre-selected delayed
headlamp lighting period has ended.
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier
for others to see the front of your vehicle during the
day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the
short periods after dawn and before sunset. Fully
functional daytime running lamps are required on all
vehicles first sold in Canada.
A light sensor on top of the instrument panel
makes the DRL work, so be sure it is not covered.
If you turn off the ignition with the headlamps
switch in the parking lamps or headlamps position,
the delayed headlamps cycle will not occur.
The DRL system’s automatic headlamp control
will make the low-beam headlamps come on at a
reduced brightness when the following conditions
are met:
To disable the delayed headlamps feature or
change the time of delay, see DIC Vehicle
• The ignition is in RUN.
• The exterior lamps control is in AUTO.
• The engine is running.
When the DRL are on, only the low-beam
headlamps, at a reduced level of brightness, will
be on. The headlamps, taillamps, sidemarker, and
other lamps will not be on. The instrument
panel and cluster will also not be lit.
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When it is dark enough outside, your low-beam
headlamps will turn off and the headlamps and
parking lamps will turn on. The other lamps that
come on with the headlamps will also come on.
When the headlamps are changed to high-beam,
the fog lamps also go off.
Some localities have laws that require the
headlamps to be on along with the fog lamps.
When it is bright enough outside, the headlamps
will go off and the DRL will come on.
Instrument Panel Brightness
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the
regular headlamp system when you need it.
D (Instrument Panel Brightness): The knob
with this symbol on it is located next to the exterior
lamps control. Press the knob until it pops out
and then turn the knob clockwise to brighten
or counterclockwise to dim the lights.
Fog Lamps
- (Fog Lamps): If your vehicle has fog lamps,
the control is located on the exterior lamps
control. The exterior lamps control is located on
the instrument panel to the left of the steering
column.
Courtesy Lamps
When a door is opened, the courtesy lamps
automatically come on. They make it easy for you
to enter and leave your vehicle. You can also
manually turn these lamps on by turning the
instrument panel brightness control clockwise all
the way.
Your ignition must be in the RUN position for the
fog lamps to come on.
To turn the fog lamps on, press the exterior lamps
button. A light will come on in the instrument
panel cluster to let you know that the fog lamps
are on. Press the exterior lamps button again
to turn the fog lamps off.
The reading lamps, located on the rearview mirror,
can be turned on or off independent of the
automatic courtesy lamps, when the doors are
closed.
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When the ignition is on, illuminated entry is
inactive, which means the courtesy lamps will not
come on unless a door is opened.
Dome Lamp
The dome lamp will come on when you open a
door. You can also turn this lamp on by turning the
instrument panel brightness control clockwise.
Delayed Entry Lighting
Delayed entry lighting illuminates the interior for a
period of time after all the doors have been closed.
Entry Lighting
Your vehicle may have courtesy lamps that will
come on and stay on for a set time whenever
UNLOCK is pressed on the remote keyless entry
transmitter, if you have one.
The ignition must be off for delayed entry lighting
to work. Immediately after all the doors have been
closed, the delayed entry lighting feature will
continue to work until one of the following occurs:
If a door is opened, the lamps will stay on while it
is open and then turn off automatically about
25 seconds after the door is closed. If UNLOCK is
pressed and you do not open a door, the lamps
will turn off after about 40 seconds.
• The ignition is in RUN.
• The doors are locked.
• An illumination period of 25 seconds has
elapsed.
Entry lighting includes a feature called theater
dimming. With theater dimming, the lamps do not
turn off at the end of the delay time. Instead,
they slowly dim after the delay time until they go
out. The delay time is canceled if you turn the
ignition key to ON or press the power door
lock switch. The lamps will dim right away.
If during the illumination period a door is opened,
the timed illumination period will be canceled
and the interior lamps will remain on because a
door is open.
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Delayed Exit Lighting
Reading Lamps
This feature illuminates the interior for a period of
time after the key is removed from the ignition.
Your vehicle may have reading lamps that are
located in the dome lamp. Press the button to turn
them on and off.
The ignition must be off for delayed exit lighting to
work. When the key is removed, interior
illumination will activate and remain on until one of
the following occurs:
Electric Power Management
This vehicle has Electric Power Management
(EPM), an advanced control system. It estimates
the battery’s temperature and state of charge
and then adjusts the voltage for best performance
and extended life of the battery.
• The ignition is in RUN.
• The power door locks are activated.
• An illumination period of 20 seconds has
elapsed.
When the battery’s state of charge is low, the
voltage is raised slightly to quickly put the charge
back in. When the state of charge is high, the
voltage is lowered slightly to prevent overcharging.
If the vehicle has a voltmeter gage or voltage
display on the Driver Information Center (DIC), you
may see the voltage move up or down. This is
normal. If there is a problem, an alert will be
displayed.
If during the illumination period a door is opened,
the timed illumination period will be canceled
and the interior lamps will remain on because a
door is open.
Parade Dimming
The instrument panel has an added feature called
parade mode. This feature prohibits the dimming
of your instrument panel displays during the
daylight while the headlamps are on so that you
will still be able to see the displays.
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The battery can be discharged at idle if the
electrical loads are very high. This is true for all
vehicles. This is because the generator (alternator)
may not be spinning fast enough at idle to
produce all the power that is needed for very high
electrical loads.
If this message is displayed, it is recommended
that the driver reduce the electrical loads as much
as possible. See DIC Warnings and Messages
on page 197.
Battery Run-Down Protection
A high electrical load occurs when several of the
following loads are on: headlamps, high beams,
fog lamps, rear window defogger, climate
control fan at high speed, heated seats, engine
cooling fans, trailer loads, and loads plugged into
accessory power outlets.
This vehicle has a feature to help prevent the
battery from being drained, if the interior courtesy
lamps, reading/map lamps, visor vanity lamps
or trunk lamp are accidentally left on. If any
of these lamps are left on, they will automatically
turn off after 10 minutes, if the ignition is off.
The lamps will not come back on again until you
do the following:
EPM works to prevent excessive discharge of the
battery. It does this by balancing the generator’s
output and the vehicle’s electrical needs. It
can increase engine idle speed to generate more
power, whenever needed. It can temporarily
reduce the power demands of some accessories.
• Turn the ignition on, or
• turn the exterior lamps control off, then
on again.
The headlamps will timeout after 10 minutes, if they
are manually turned on before the ignition is off.
Normally, these actions occur in steps or levels,
without being noticeable. In rare cases at the
highest levels of corrective action, this action may
be noticeable to the driver. If so, a Driver
Information Center (DIC) message might be
displayed, such as Battery Saver Active or Service
Battery Charging System.
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Certain accessory plugs may not be compatible to
the accessory power outlet and could result in
blown vehicle and adapter fuses. If you experience
a problem, see your dealer for additional
Accessory Power Outlet(s)
Your vehicle has three 12-volt outlets which can be
used to plug in electrical equipment such as a
cellular telephone, a compact disc player, etc.
information on the power accessory plugs.
On vehicles with a center console, one outlet is
located at the rear of the console in the bottom of
the bin and two outlets are located at the front
of the console bin under the instrument panel. Lift
the cover to access the outlet. Close the cover
when not using the outlet.
Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to
your vehicle may damage it or keep other
components from working as they should. The
repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Do not use equipment exceeding maximum
amperage rating of 20 amperes. Check with
your dealer before adding electrical equipment.
On vehicles without a center console, two are
located under the climate controls and another
outlet for the rear seat passengers is at the rear of
the center front seat. Remove the rubber cover
to access the outlets. When not using the
outlet, make sure the cover is on it.
When adding electrical equipment, be sure to
follow the proper installation instructions included
with the equipment. Check with your dealer
before adding electrical equipment, and never use
anything that exceeds the maximum amperage
rating of 20 amps.
Notice: Leaving electrical equipment on for
extended periods will drain the battery. Always
unplug electrical equipment when not in use
and do not plug in equipment that exceeds the
maximum 20 ampere rating.
Notice: Improper use of the power outlet can
cause damage not covered by your warranty.
Do not hang any type of accessory or
accessory bracket from the plug because the
power outlets are designed for accessory
power plugs only.
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Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter
Climate Controls
Your vehicle may have an ashtray and a cigarette
lighter. The ashtray and cigarette lighter may
be located in the console, if your vehicle has one,
otherwise, they may be located in the center
armrest of the front seat.
Climate Control System
This vehicle may have a dual or single climate
control system. With this system you can control
the heating, cooling, defrost, defog and
Notice: If you put papers, pins, or other
flammable items in the ashtray, hot cigarettes
or other smoking materials could ignite them
and possibly damage your vehicle. Never put
flammable items in the ashtray.
ventilation for your vehicle. If this vehicle has
Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter in while it
is heating will not allow the lighter to back
away from the heating element when it is hot.
Damage from overheating may occur to the
lighter or heating element, or a fuse could be
blown. Do not hold a cigarette lighter in
while it is heating.
Dual Zone with Optional Heated Seat Controls
To use the lighter, just push it in all the way and
let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back out by itself.
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6(Floor): This mode directs most of the air to the
floor outlets, with some of the air directed to the
windshield and side window outlets. In this mode,
the system will automatically select Outside Air.
The right knob can also be used to select defog or
defrost mode. For more information, see
“Defogging and Defrosting” later in this section.
By positioning the right knob between two modes,
a combination of those two modes is selected.
Single Zone
The air conditioning compressor will operate
unless the outside temperature is 40°F (4°C) or
below.
Manual Operation
Turn the right knob clockwise or counterclockwise
to direct the airflow inside of your vehicle.
9(Fan): Turn the left knob clockwise or
counterclockwise to increase or decrease the fan
speed. If the airflow seems low when the fan
is at the highest setting, the passenger
compartment air filter may need to be replaced.
For more information, see Passenger
To change the current mode, select one of the
following:
H(Vent): This mode directs air to the instrument
panel outlets.
)(Bi-Level): This mode directs half of the air to
the instrument panel outlets and the other half
to the floor outlets.
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:(Outside Air): Press this button to turn on
outside air. When this mode is on, outside air
will circulate throughout your vehicle. When the
button is pressed, an indicator light will come on to
show that it is on.
#(Air Conditioning): Press this button to turn
the air conditioning system on or off. When
A/C is pressed, an indicator light will come on to
let you know that the air conditioning is on.
On hot days, open the windows to let hot inside
air escape; then close them. This helps to reduce
the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down.
It also helps the system to operate more efficiently.
?(Recirculation): Press this button to turn on
the recirculation mode. When the button is
pressed, an indicator light will come on to show
that it is on.
For quick cool down on hot days, do the
following:
This mode keeps outside air from entering the
vehicle. It can be used to prevent outside air and
odors from entering your vehicle. Recirculation
may also help heat or cool the air inside your
vehicle more quickly once the temperature inside
the vehicle is equal to or better than the outside
temperature. The recirculation mode cannot
be used with outside air, floor, defrost, or
defogging modes.
1. Select the vent mode.
2. Select A/C.
3. Select the coolest temperature for both zones.
4. Select the highest fan speeds.
5. When the coolest temperature is selected in
the A/C mode, the system will automatically
go into the recirculation mode to improve
cooling. Press the Outside Air or Recirculation
button to turn off the automatic recirculation.
This feature will stay off until the climate
control system is powered on again or the
vehicle has been turned off and on again.
Temperature Control: Turn the thumbwheels up
or down to increase or decrease the temperature
on the driver’s side or the passenger side of
the vehicle for the dual zone system. Turn the
center knob clockwise or counterclockwise
to increase or decrease the temperature for the
single zone system.
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Using these settings together for long periods of
time may cause the air inside of your vehicle
to become too dry. To prevent this from
happening, after the air inside of your vehicle has
cooled, turn the recirculation mode off.
Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows
are clear.
Turn the right knob clockwise to select the defog
or defrost mode.
-(Defog): This mode directs air equally to the
windshield and the floor outlets. When defog
is selected, the system turns off recirculation and
runs the air conditioning compressor unless
the outside temperature is below 40°F (4°C).
The air conditioning system removes moisture
from the air, so you may sometimes notice a small
amount of water dripping underneath your
vehicle while idling or after turning off the engine.
This is normal.
0(Defrost): This mode directs most of the air to
the windshield with some air to the side window
vents and to the floor vents. When defrost is
selected, the system will automatically force outside
air into the vehicle. The air conditioning compressor
will run automatically in this setting, unless the
outside temperature is below 40°F (4°C).
Defogging and Defrosting
Fog on the inside of the windows is a result of high
humidity (moisture) condensing on the cool window
glass. This can be minimized if the climate control
system is used properly. There are two modes to
clear fog or frost from your windshield. Use the
defog mode to clear the windows of fog or moisture
and warm the passengers. Use the defrost mode to
remove fog or frost from the windshield more
quickly.
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Rear Window Defogger
Outlet Adjustment
The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to
remove fog from the rear window.
Use the thumbwheel located below or to the side of
the outlet, to change the direction of the air flow.
<(Rear Window Defogger): The rear window
defogger will turn off automatically after it has
been activated for 10 minutes. It can be turned off
manually, by pressing the button again or by
turning the ignition to the OFF position. If additional
window clearing is required, the rear window
defogger can be turned on again for additional
window clearing. The length of defogger operation
will increase if the vehicle is being driven.
If your vehicle has heated outside rearview mirrors,
the mirrors will heat to help clear fog or frost
from the surface of the mirror when the rear
window defog button is pressed. See Outside
Operation Tips
• Clear away any ice, snow or leaves from the
air inlets at the base of the windshield that
may block the flow of air into your vehicle.
• 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 your
vehicle more effectively.
• If the airflow seems low when the fan is at the
highest setting, the passenger compartment
air filter, if equipped, may need to replaced.
For more information, see Passenger
Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows
are clear.
Notice: Do not use anything sharp on the
inside of the rear window. If you do, you could
cut or damage the warming grid, and the repairs
would not be covered by your warranty. Do not
attach a temporary vehicle license, tape, a decal
or anything similar to the defogger grid.
• If fogging reoccurs while in vent or bi-level
modes with mild temperature throughout
the vehicle, turn on the air conditioner
to reduce windshield fogging.
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Passenger Compartment Air Filter
This vehicle has a passenger compartment
particulate air filter. It is located underneath the
hood just below the windshield wiper arm on
the passenger’s side of the vehicle, under the air
inlet grille.
The filter traps most of the pollen from air entering
the Climate Control System. Like your engine’s
air cleaner/filter, it may need to be changed
periodically to ensure system performance. For
information on how often to change the passenger
compartment air filter, see Scheduled Maintenance
on page 410.
4. Remove the air inlet grille retainers.
5. Lift the air inlet grille and disconnect the
washer hose at the quick-connect.
To change the passenger compartment air filter,
use the following steps:
1. Turn off the ignition when the windshield
wipers are in the up position.
6. Remove the air inlet grille.
7. Remove the water deflector plate.
2. Raise the vehicle hood.
8. Remove the old passenger compartment
air filter.
3. Peel back the hood weatherstrip from the
passenger’s side of the vehicle halfway to
center.
9. Reverse the steps to install the new air filter.
For best climate control system performance,
be sure to re-install the air filter.
For the type of filter to use, see Normal
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Gages can indicate when there may be or is a
problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often
gages and warning lights work together to let you
know when there’s a problem with your vehicle.
Warning Lights, Gages, and
Indicators
This part describes the warning lights and gages
that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will
help you locate them.
When one of the warning lights comes on and
stays on when you are driving, or when one of the
gages shows there may be a problem, check
the section that tells you what to do about
it. Please follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to
do repairs can be costly – and even dangerous.
So please get to know your warning lights
and gages. They’re a big help.
Warning lights and gages can signal that something
is wrong before it becomes serious enough to
cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying
attention to your warning lights and gages could
also save you or others from injury.
Warning lights come on when there may be or
is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions.
As you will see in the details on the next few
pages, some warning lights come on 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.
Your vehicle may also have a Driver Information
Center (DIC) that works along with the warning
lights and gages. See Driver Information
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Instrument Panel Cluster
Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running.
You will know how fast you are going, about how much fuel is in your tank and many other things you
need to drive safely and economically.
United States Uplevel shown, Base and Canada similar
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Speedometer and Odometer
Tachometer
Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both
miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour
(km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle
has been driven in either miles (used in the
Notice: If you operate the engine with the
tachometer in the shaded 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 shaded warning area.
United States) or in kilometers (used in Canada).
Your vehicle has a tamper-resistant odometer.
If you see ERROR, you’ll know someone
has probably tampered with it and the numbers
may not be accurate.
The tachometer displays the engine speed in
revolutions per minute (rpm).
You may wonder what happens if your vehicle
needs a new odometer installed. If the new
one can be set to the mileage total of the old
odometer, then that will be done. But if it can’t,
then it will be set at zero and a label must be put
on the driver’s door to show the old mileage
reading when the new odometer was installed.
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Safety Belt Reminder Light
Passenger Safety Belt Reminder
Light
When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime
will be provided for several seconds to remind
people to buckle their safety belts. The driver safety
belt light will also be provided and stay on for
several seconds, then it will flash for several more.
You should buckle your seat belt.
Several seconds after the key is turned to RUN or
START, a chime will sound for several seconds to
remind the front passenger to buckle their safety
belt. This would only occur if the passenger airbag
page 79 for more information. The passenger
safety belt light will also come on and stay on for
several seconds, then it will flash for several more.
This chime and light will
be repeated if the driver
remains unbuckled
and the vehicle
This chime and light will
be repeated if the
is in motion.
passenger remains
unbuckled and the
vehicle is in motion.
If the driver’s belt is buckled, neither the chime nor
the light will be provided.
If the passenger’s safety belt is buckled, neither
the chime nor the light will come on.
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Airbag Readiness Light
{CAUTION:
There is an airbag readiness light on the
instrument panel, which shows the airbag symbol.
The system checks the airbag’s electrical
system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there
is an electrical problem. The system check
includes the airbag sensors, the airbag modules,
the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic
module. For more information on the airbag
If the airbag readiness light stays on after
you start your vehicle, it means the airbag
system may not be working properly. The
airbags in your vehicle may not inflate in
a crash, or they could even inflate without
a crash. To help avoid injury to yourself
or others, have your vehicle serviced right
away if the airbag readiness light stays on
after you start your vehicle.
This light will come on
when you start your
vehicle, and it will flash
for a few seconds. Then
the light should go out.
This means the system
is ready.
The airbag readiness light should flash for a
few 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.
If the airbag readiness light stays on after you
start the vehicle or comes on when you are driving,
your airbag system may not work properly.
Have your vehicle serviced right away.
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There is a label on your sun visor that says,
“Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.”
This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is
so great if the airbag deploys. Never put a rear
facing child restraint in the right front passenger
seat unless passenger airbag status indicator
shows off and the airbag is off. Here is why:
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator
Your vehicle has the passenger sensing system.
Your instrument panel has a passenger airbag
status indicator.
{CAUTION:
Even though the passenger sensing
system is designed to turn off the
United States
Canada
passenger’s frontal airbag if the system
detects a rear-facing child restraint, no
system is failsafe, and no one can
guarantee that an airbag will not deploy
under some unusual circumstance, even
though it is turned off. We recommend that
rear-facing child restraints be secured in
the rear seat, even if the airbag is off.
When the ignition key is turned to RUN or
START, the passenger airbag status indicator will
light ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, for
several seconds as a system check. 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.
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If the word ON or the on symbol is lit on the
passenger airbag status indicator, it means that
the right front passenger’s frontal airbag is enabled
(may inflate).
If the word OFF or the off symbol is lit on the
airbag status indicator, it means that the
passenger sensing system has turned off the right
front passenger’s frontal airbag. See Passenger
including important safety information.
{CAUTION:
If, after several seconds, all status indicator lights
remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there
may be a problem with the lights or the passenger
sensing system. See your dealer for service.
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 rear-facing child restraint can be
seriously injured or killed if the right front
passenger’s airbag inflates. This is
because the back of the rear-facing child
restraint would be very close to the
inflating airbag. Do not use a rear-facing
child restraint in the right front passenger’s
seat if the airbag is turned on.
{CAUTION:
If the off indicator and the airbag
readiness light ever come on together, it
means that something may be wrong with
the airbag system. If this ever happens,
have the vehicle serviced promptly,
because an adult-size person sitting in the
right front passenger seat may not have
the protection of the frontal airbag. See
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Charging System Light
Brake System Warning Light
Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided
into two parts. If one part is not working, the other
part can still work and stop you. For good
The charging system
light will come on briefly
when you turn on the
ignition, but the engine is
not running, as a check
to show you it is working.
braking, though, you need both parts working well.
If the warning light comes on, there is a brake
problem. Have your brake system inspected
right away.
It should go out once the engine is running. If it
stays on, or comes on while you are driving,
you may have a problem with the charging system.
It could indicate that you have problems with a
generator drive belt, or another electrical problem.
Have it checked right away. Driving while this
light is on could drain your battery.
United States
Canada
If you must drive a short distance with the light on,
be certain to turn off all your accessories, such
as the radio and air conditioner.
This light should come on briefly when you turn
the ignition key to RUN. If it does not come
on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn
you if there is a problem.
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When the ignition is on, the brake system warning
light will also come on when you set your
parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking
brake does not release fully. If it stays on after
your parking brake is fully released, it means you
have a brake problem.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning
Light
Your vehicle may have
an Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS) warning
light.
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off
the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the
pedal is harder to push, or the pedal may go closer
to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is
still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See
It should come on for a few seconds when you turn
the ignition key to RUN.
If the ABS warning light stays on longer than normal
after you have started your engine, turn the ignition
off or, if the light comes on and stays on when you
are driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the
ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the
system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again
while you are driving, the ABS needs service and
you do not have anti-lock brakes.
{CAUTION:
Your brake system may not be working
properly if the brake system warning light
is on. Driving with the brake system
warning light on can lead to an accident.
If the light is still on after you have pulled
off the road and stopped carefully, have
the vehicle towed for service.
The ABS warning light should 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.
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Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light
Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
For vehicles equipped
The engine coolant
with the traction control
system, this warning
light should come
temperature warning
light will come on when
the engine has
on briefly when the
engine is started.
overheated.
If the warning light does not come on then, have it
fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a
problem. If it stays on, or comes on when you are
driving, there may be a problem with your traction
control system and your vehicle may need service.
When this warning light is on, the system will not
limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.
If this happens you should pull over and turn off
the engine as soon as possible. See Engine
Notice: Driving with the engine coolant
temperature warning light on could cause your
vehicle to overheat. See Engine Overheating
on page 326. Your vehicle could be damaged,
and it might not be covered by your warranty.
Never drive with the engine coolant
If the traction control system warning light comes
on and stays on for an extended period of
time when the system is turned on, your vehicle
needs service. See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 256 for more information.
temperature warning light on.
This light will also come on when starting your
vehicle. If it doesn’t, have your vehicle serviced.
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Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
Tire Pressure Light
This light comes on
briefly when you turn
the ignition to RUN.
United States
Canada
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature.
If the gage pointer moves towards the “H”
(United States) or the shaded in thermostat
(Canada), it means that your engine coolant has
overheated. If you have been operating your
vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should
pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off
the engine as soon as possible.
This light will also come on when one or more of
your tires are significantly underinflated.
A CHECK TIRE PRESSURE message in the
Driver Information Center (DIC) will accompany
the light. See DIC Warnings and Messages
on page 197 for more information.
Stop and check your tires as soon as it is safe to
do so. If underinflated, inflate to the proper
information.
information.
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This light will flash for approximately 60 seconds
and then stay on if a problem is detected with
the Tire Pressure Monitor system.
This may prevent more serious damage to your
vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your
service technician in correctly diagnosing any
malfunction.
for more information.
Notice: If you keep driving your vehicle with
this light on, after awhile, your emission
controls may not work as well, your fuel
economy may not be as good, and your engine
may not run as smoothly. This could lead to
costly repairs that may not be covered by your
warranty.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp
Check Engine Light
Your vehicle has a
computer which
monitors operation of
the fuel, ignition,
and emission control
systems.
Notice: Modifications made to the engine,
transaxle, exhaust, intake, or fuel system
of your vehicle or the replacement of the
original tires with other than those of the same
Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect
your vehicle’s emission controls and may
cause this light to come on. Modifications to
these systems could lead to costly repairs not
covered by your warranty. This may also
result in a failure to pass a required Emission
Inspection/Maintenance test. See Accessories
This system is called OBD II (On-Board
Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended
to assure that emissions are at acceptable
levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce
a cleaner environment. The check engine light
comes on to indicate that there is a problem and
service is required. Malfunctions often will be
indicated by the system before any problem is
apparent.
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This light should come on, as a check to show
you it is working, when the ignition is on and the
engine is not running. If the light does not
come on, have it repaired. This light will also
come on during a malfunction in one of two ways:
If the light stops flashing and remains on steady,
see “If the Light Is On Steady” following.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do
so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park
your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least
10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light
remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady”
following. If the light is still flashing, follow the
previous steps, and see your dealer for service as
soon as possible.
• Light Flashing — A misfire condition has
been detected. A misfire increases vehicle
emissions and may damage the emission
control system on your vehicle. Diagnosis and
service may be required.
• Light On Steady — An emission control
system malfunction has been detected on your
vehicle. Diagnosis and service may be
required.
If the Light Is On Steady
You may be able to correct the emission system
malfunction by considering the following:
Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle?
If the Light is Flashing
If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully
The diagnostic system can determine if the
fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A
loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to
evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips
with the cap properly installed should turn the
light off.
The following may prevent more serious damage
to your vehicle:
• Reducing vehicle speed
• Avoiding hard accelerations
• Avoiding steep uphill grades
• If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount
of cargo being hauled as soon as it is
possible
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Did you just drive through a deep puddle of
water?
If none of the above steps have made the light
turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle.
Your dealer has the proper test equipment and
diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical
problems that may have developed.
If so, your electrical system may be wet. The
condition will usually be corrected when the
electrical system dries out. A few driving trips
should turn the light off.
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance
Programs
Have you recently changed brands of fuel?
If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel.
quality will cause your engine not to run as
efficiently as designed. You may notice this as
stalling after start-up, stalling when you put
the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on
acceleration, or stumbling on acceleration. (These
conditions may go away once the engine is
warmed up.) This will be detected by the system
and cause the light to turn on.
Some state/provincial and local governments have
or may begin programs to inspect the emission
control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass
this inspection could prevent you from getting a
vehicle registration.
Here are some things you need to know to help
your vehicle pass an inspection:
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the
check engine light is on or not working properly.
If you experience one or more of these conditions,
change the fuel brand you use. It will require at
least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the
light off.
Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if
the OBD (on-board diagnostic) system determines
that critical emission control systems have not
been completely diagnosed by the system.
The vehicle would be considered not ready for
inspection. This can happen if you have recently
replaced your battery or if your battery has
run down.
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The diagnostic system is designed to evaluate
critical emission control systems during normal
driving. This may take several days of routine
driving. If you have done this and your vehicle still
does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD
system readiness, your dealer can prepare
the vehicle for inspection.
This light tells you there
could be a problem with
the engine oil pressure.
The light goes on when you turn your key to RUN or
START. It goes off once you start your engine. That
is a check to be sure the light works. If it does not
come on, be sure to have it fixed so it will be there
to warn you if something goes wrong.
Oil Pressure Light
{CAUTION:
When the light comes on and stays on, it means
that oil is not flowing through your engine properly.
You could be low on oil and you might have
some other system problem.
Do not keep driving if the oil pressure is
low. If you do, your engine can become so
hot that it catches fire. You or others
could be burned. Check your oil as soon
as possible and have your vehicle
serviced.
Notice: Lack of proper engine oil maintenance
may damage the engine. The repairs would
not be covered by your warranty. Always follow
the maintenance schedule in this manual for
changing engine oil.
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Security Light
Cruise Control Light
For information
regarding this light, see
This light comes on
whenever you set the
cruise control.
The light goes out when the cruise control is
more information.
Fog Lamp Light
The fog lamp light will
come on when the fog
lamps are in use.
Highbeam On Light
This light comes on
when the high-beam
headlamps are in use.
The light will go out when the fog lamps are
information.
page 153.
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• The gage moves a little when you turn a corner
or speed up.
Fuel Gage
• The gage doesn’t go back to empty when you
turn off the ignition.
Driver Information Center (DIC)
Your vehicle has a Driver Information Center (DIC).
All messages will appear in the DIC display
located below the speedometer in the instrument
panel cluster. The DIC buttons are located on
the instrument panel, to the right of the instrument
panel cluster.
United States
Canada
When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you
about how much fuel you have remaining.
The DIC comes on when the ignition is on. After a
short delay, the DIC will display the information
that was last displayed before the engine was
turned off.
Here are four things that some owners ask about.
None of these show a problem with your fuel gage:
The DIC displays trip, fuel, and vehicle system
information, and warning messages if a system
problem is detected. The bottom line of the
DIC shows the shift lever position indicator. See
Automatic Transaxle Operation on page 117
for more information.
• At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off
before the gage reads full.
• It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than
the gage indicated. For example, the gage may
have indicated the tank was half full, but it
actually took a little more or less than half the
tank’s capacity to fill the tank.
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If your vehicle has these features, the DIC also
displays the compass direction and the outside air
temperature when viewing the trip and fuel
information. The compass direction appears on the
top right corner of the DIC display. The outside air
temperature automatically appears in the bottom
right corner of the DIC display. If there is a problem
with the system that controls the temperature
display, the numbers will be replaced with dashes.
If this occurs, have the vehicle serviced by your
dealer.
DIC Buttons
The buttons are the
trip/fuel, vehicle
information,
customization, and
set/reset buttons. The
button functions
are detailed in the
following pages.
The DIC also allows some features to be
page 206 for more information.
3 (Trip/Fuel): Press this button to display the
odometer, trip odometers, fuel range, average
economy, instantaneous economy, Active
Fuel Management™ indicator on vehicles with this
feature, and average speed.
DIC Operation and Displays
The DIC has different displays which can be
accessed by pressing the DIC buttons located on
the instrument panel, to the right of the
instrument panel cluster.
T (Vehicle Information): Press this button to
display the oil life, units, tire pressure readings and
Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system programming,
compass zone and compass calibration on
vehicles with this feature, and Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) transmitter programming.
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Each trip odometer can be reset to zero separately
by pressing the set/reset button while the desired
trip odometer is displayed.
U (Customization): Press this button to
customize the feature settings on your vehicle.
for more information.
The trip odometer has a feature called the
retro-active reset. This can be used to set the trip
odometer to the number of miles (kilometers)
driven since the ignition was last turned on. This
can be used if the trip odometer is not reset at the
beginning of the trip.
V (Set/Reset): Press this button to set or reset
certain functions and to turn off or acknowledge
messages on the DIC.
Trip/Fuel Menu Items
To use the retro-active reset feature, press and
hold the set/reset button for at least four seconds.
The trip odometer will display the number of
miles (mi) or kilometers (km) driven since the
ignition was last turned on and the vehicle
was moving. Once the vehicle begins moving, the
trip odometer will accumulate mileage. For
example, if the vehicle was driven 5 miles (8 km)
before it is started again, and then the retro-active
reset feature is activated, the display will show
5 miles (8 km). As the vehicle begins moving, the
display will then increase to 5.1 miles (8.2 km),
5.2 miles (8.4 km), etc.
3 (Trip/Fuel): Press this button to scroll
through the following menu items:
Odometer
Press the trip/fuel button until ODOMETER
displays. This display shows the distance the
vehicle has been driven in either miles (mi)
or kilometers (km).
Trip A and Trip B
Press the trip/fuel button until TRIP A or TRIP B
displays. This display shows the current distance
traveled in either miles (mi) or kilometers (km)
since the last reset for each trip odometer. Both
trip odometers can be used at the same time.
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If the retro-active reset feature is activated after
the vehicle is started, but before it begins moving,
the display will show the number of miles (mi)
or kilometers (km) that were driven during the last
ignition cycle.
If your vehicle is low on fuel, the FUEL LEVEL
LOW message will be displayed. See “FUEL
LEVEL LOW” under DIC Warnings and Messages
on page 197 for more information.
Average Economy
Fuel Range
Press the trip/fuel button until AVG ECONOMY
displays. This display shows the approximate
average miles per gallon (mpg) or liters per
100 kilometers (L/100 km). This number is
calculated based on the number of mpg (L/100 km)
recorded since the last time this menu item was
reset. To reset AVG ECONOMY, press and hold
the set/reset button. The display will return to zero.
Press the trip/fuel button until FUEL RANGE
displays. This display shows the approximate
number of remaining miles (mi) or kilometers (km)
the vehicle can be driven without refueling.
The fuel range estimate is based on an average of
the vehicle’s fuel economy over recent driving
history and the amount of fuel remaining in the fuel
tank. This estimate will change if driving conditions
change. For example, if driving in traffic and making
frequent stops, this display may read one number,
but if the vehicle is driven on a freeway, the number
may change even though the same amount of fuel
is in the fuel tank. This is because different driving
conditions produce different fuel economies.
Generally, freeway driving produces better fuel
economy than city driving.
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For vehicles with a V8 engine, when Active Fuel
Management™ is active, 4CYL MODE will display.
When Active Fuel Management™ is inactive,
8CYL MODE will display.
Instantaneous Economy and Active Fuel
Management™ Indicator
Press the trip/fuel button until INST ECONOMY
displays. If your vehicle has the Active Fuel
Management™ feature, INST ECONOMY
8CYL MODE will display on vehicles with a
V8 engine or INST ECONOMY 6CYL MODE will
display on vehicles with a V6 engine. This display
shows the current fuel economy at a particular
moment and will change frequently as driving
conditions change. This display shows the
instantaneous fuel economy in miles per gallon
(mpg) or liters per 100 kilometers (L/100 km).
Unlike average economy, this screen cannot be
reset.
For vehicles with a V6 engine, when Active Fuel
Management™ is active, 3CYL MODE will display.
When Active Fuel Management™ is inactive,
6CYL MODE will display.
Average Speed
Press the trip/fuel button until AVERAGE SPEED
displays. This display shows the average speed
of the vehicle in miles per hour (mph) or kilometers
per hour (km/h). This average is calculated
based on the various vehicle speeds recorded
since the last reset of this value. To reset
the value, press and hold the set/reset button. The
display will return to zero.
If your vehicle has the Active Fuel Management™
feature, an Active Fuel Management™ indicator
will display on the right side of the DIC, while INST
ECONOMY displays on the left side. Active Fuel
Management™ allows the engine to operate
on either all or half of its cylinders, depending on
your driving demands.
Blank Display
This display shows no information.
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Remember, you must reset the OIL LIFE yourself
after each oil change. It will not reset itself.
Also, be careful not to reset the OIL LIFE
accidentally at any time other than when the oil
has just been changed. It cannot be reset
accurately until the next oil change. To reset the
engine oil life system, see Engine Oil Life
Vehicle Information Menu Items
T (Vehicle Information): Press this button to
scroll through the following menu items:
Oil Life
Press the vehicle information button until OIL LIFE
REMAINING displays. This display shows an
estimate of the oil’s remaining useful life. If you
see 99% OIL LIFE REMAINING on the display,
that means 99% of the current oil life remains. The
engine oil life system will alert you to change
the oil on a schedule consistent with your driving
conditions.
Units
Press the vehicle information button until UNITS
displays. This display allows you to select between
English or Metric units of measurement. Once in
this display, press the set/reset button to select
between ENGLISH or METRIC units.
When the remaining oil life is low, the CHANGE
ENGINE OIL SOON message will appear on the
display. See “CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON” under
should change the oil as soon as possible. See
life system monitoring the oil life, additional
maintenance is recommended in the Maintenance
Schedule in this manual. See Scheduled
Tire Pressure
The pressure for each tire can be viewed in the
DIC. The tire pressure will be shown in either
pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascals (kPa).
Press the vehicle information button until the
DIC displays FRONT TIRES PSI (kPa) LEFT ##
RIGHT ##. Press the vehicle information button
again until the DIC displays REAR TIRES
PSI (kPa) LEFT ## RIGHT ##.
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If a low or high tire pressure condition is detected
by the system while driving, a message advising
you to check the pressure in a specific tire
will appear in the display. See Inflation - Tire
Compass Zone
Your vehicle may have this feature. Under certain
circumstances, such as during a long distance
cross-country trip, it will be necessary to
compensate for compass variance and reset the
zone. To change the compass zone through
If the tire pressure display shows dashes
instead of a value, there may be a problem with
your vehicle. If this consistently occurs, see
your dealer for service.
Compass Calibration
The compass can be manually calibrated. To
calibrate the compass through the DIC, see DIC
Learn Tire Positions
To access this display, the vehicle must be in
PARK (P). After rotating the tires or after replacing
a tire or sensor, the Tire Pressure Monitor
(TPM) system must re-learn the tire positions. To
re-learn the tire positions, see Tire Pressure
Remote Key
To access this display, the vehicle must be in
PARK (P). This display allows you to match the
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to
your vehicle. To match an RKE transmitter to your
vehicle, do the following:
1. Press the vehicle information button until
PRESS V TO RELEARN REMOTE KEY
displays.
2. Press the set/reset button.
The message REMOTE KEY LEARNING
ACTIVE will display.
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3. Press and hold the lock and unlock buttons
on the first transmitter at the same time for
approximately 15 seconds.
DIC Compass
Your vehicle may have a compass in the Driver
Information Center (DIC).
A chime will sound indicating that the
transmitter is matched.
Compass Zone
4. To match additional transmitters at this time,
repeat Step 3.
Under certain circumstances, such as during a
long distance cross-country trip, it will be
necessary to compensate for compass variance
and reset the zone through the DIC.
Each vehicle can have a maximum of eight
transmitters matched to it.
5. To exit the programming mode, you must
cycle the key to OFF.
Compass variance is the difference between the
earth’s magnetic north and true geographic
north. If not adjusted to account for compass
variance, the compass in the vehicle could give
false readings.
Blank Display
This display shows no information.
In order to do this, the compass must be set or
calibrated to the variance zone in which the vehicle
is traveling.
Customization Menu Items
U (Customization): Press this button to enter the
feature settings menu. This display allows you
to customize the feature settings on your vehicle.
for more information.
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To adjust for compass variance, use the following
procedure:
3. Press the set/reset button to scroll through
and select the appropriate variance zone.
Navigate to one of the trip/fuel menu screens
to view the direction the vehicle is moving.
This will be shown in the top right corner of the
DIC display.
Compass Variance Procedure
1. Press the vehicle information button until
PRESS V TO CHANGE COMPASS ZONE
displays.
4. If you need to calibrate the compass, use the
compass calibration procedure. See
“Compass Calibration Procedure” following.
Compass Calibration
The compass can be manually calibrated. Only
calibrate the compass in a safe location where
driving the vehicle in circles is not a problem. If
“CAL” should ever appear in the DIC display, the
compass may need calibration.
2. Find the vehicle’s current location and
variance zone number on the map.
Zones 1 through 15 are available.
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To calibrate the compass, use the following
procedure:
DIC Warnings and Messages
Messages are displayed on the DIC to notify the
driver that the status of the vehicle has changed
and that some action may be needed by the driver
to correct the condition. Multiple messages may
appear one after another. Some messages
may not require immediate action, but you can
press the set/reset button to acknowledge that you
received the message and clear it from the DIC
display. Pressing any of the DIC buttons also
acknowledges and clears any messages. Some
messages cannot be cleared from the DIC display
because they are more urgent. These messages
require action before they can be cleared.
Compass Calibration Procedure
1. Before calibrating the compass, make sure
the compass zone is set to the variance
zone in which the vehicle is traveling. See
“Compass Variance Procedure” earlier in this
section.
2. Press the vehicle information button until the
PRESS V TO CALIBRATE COMPASS
screen is displayed.
3. Press the set/reset button to start the compass
calibration.
You should take any messages that appear on the
display seriously and remember that clearing
the messages will only make the messages
disappear, not correct the problem. The following
are the possible messages that can be displayed
and some information about them.
4. The DIC will display CALIBRATING: DRIVE
IN CIRCLES. Drive the vehicle in circles at
less than 5 mph (8 km/h) to complete
the calibration. The DIC will display
CALIBRATION COMPLETE when the
calibration is complete.
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Turn off all unnecessary accessories to allow the
battery to recharge.
AUTOMATIC LIGHT CONTROL OFF
This message displays when the automatic
page 158 for more information.
The normal battery voltage range is
11.5 to 15.5 volts.
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
AUTOMATIC LIGHT CONTROL ON
This message displays when service is required
page 410 for more information.
This message displays when the automatic
page 158 for more information.
BATTERY SAVER ACTIVE
Acknowledging the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
message will not reset the OIL LIFE REMAINING.
That must be done at the OIL LIFE screen
under the vehicle information menu. See “Oil Life”
This message displays when the system detects
that the battery voltage is dropping beyond a
reasonable level. The battery saver system starts
reducing certain features of the vehicle that
you may be able to notice. At the point that the
features are disabled, this message is displayed. It
means that the vehicle is trying to save the
charge in the battery.
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CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
DRIVER DOOR OPEN
This message displays when the tire pressure in
one of the tires needs to be checked. This
message also displays LEFT FRONT, RIGHT
FRONT, LEFT REAR, or RIGHT REAR to indicate
which tire needs to be checked. You can receive
more than one tire pressure message at a time. To
read the other messages that may have been
sent at the same time, press the set/reset button.
If a tire pressure message appears on the
DIC, stop as soon as you can. Have the tire
pressures checked and set to those shown on the
display also shows the tire pressure values for the
front and rear tires by pressing the vehicle
information button. See DIC Operation and
the low tire pressure warning light comes on.
This message displays when the driver’s door is not
closed properly. When this message appears,
make sure that the driver’s door is closed
completely.
ENGINE HOT A/C
(Air Conditioning) OFF
This message displays when the engine coolant
becomes hotter than the normal operating
temperature. To avoid added strain on a hot
engine, the air conditioning compressor is
automatically turned off. When the coolant
temperature returns to normal, the A/C operation
automatically resumes. You can continue to
drive your vehicle. If this message continues to
appear, have the system repaired by your dealer
as soon as possible to avoid compressor
damage.
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ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL
ENGINE OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE
This message displays when the vehicle’s engine
oil is low. Fill the oil to the proper level as soon as
page 308 for the engine oil fill location. Also, see
of oil to use and the proper oil level.
Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the
engine is overheating, severe engine damage
may occur. If an overheat warning appears on
the instrument panel cluster and/or DIC, stop
the vehicle as soon as possible. See Engine
This message displays along with a continuous
chime when the engine has overheated. Stop and
turn the engine off immediately to avoid severe
page 326.
ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE
Notice: If you drive your vehicle while the
engine is overheating, severe engine damage
may occur. If an overheat warning appears
on the instrument panel cluster and/or
DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as possible. Do
not increase the engine speed above normal
page 326 for more information.
ENGINE POWER IS REDUCED
This message displays when the vehicle’s engine
power is reduced. Reduced engine power can
affect the vehicle’s ability to accelerate. If this
message is on, but there is no reduction in
performance, proceed to your destination. The
performance may be reduced the next time the
vehicle is driven. The vehicle may be driven at a
reduced speed while this message is on, but
acceleration and speed may be reduced. Anytime
this message stays on, the vehicle should be taken
to your dealer for service as soon as possible.
This message displays when the engine coolant
temperature is too hot. Stop and allow the vehicle
to idle until it cools down.
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ERROR
LEFT REAR DOOR OPEN
This message displays while viewing the odometer
or trip odometers if there is a problem with the
instrument panel cluster. See your dealer for
service.
This message displays when the driver’s side rear
door is not closed properly. When this message
appears, make sure that the driver’s side rear door
is closed completely.
FUEL LEVEL LOW
OIL PRESSURE LOW STOP ENGINE
This message displays when your vehicle is low
on fuel. Refill the fuel tank as soon as possible.
on page 303 for more information.
Notice: If you drive your vehicle while
the engine oil pressure is low, severe engine
damage may occur. If a low oil pressure
warning appears on the Driver Information
Center (DIC), stop the vehicle as soon as
possible. Do not drive the vehicle until the
cause of the low oil pressure is corrected. See
HOOD OPEN
If your vehicle has the remote start feature, this
message displays when the hood is not closed
properly. When this message appears, make sure
that the hood is closed completely. See Hood
This message displays when the vehicle’s
engine oil pressure is low. The oil pressure light
also appears on the instrument panel cluster. See
ICE POSSIBLE DRIVE WITH CARE
Stop the vehicle immediately, as engine damage
can result from driving a vehicle with low oil
pressure. Have the vehicle serviced by your dealer
as soon as possible when this message is
displayed.
This message displays when the outside air
temperature is cold enough to create icy road
conditions. Adjust your driving accordingly.
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PASSENGER DOOR OPEN
RIGHT REAR DOOR OPEN
This message displays when the front passenger’s
door is not closed properly. When this message
appears, make sure that the front passenger’s
door is closed completely.
This message displays when the passenger’s side
rear door is not closed properly. When this
message appears, make sure that the passenger’s
side rear door is closed completely.
REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE
SERVICE A/C (Air Conditioning)
SYSTEM
This message displays while you are matching a
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter to
your vehicle. See “Matching Transmitter(s) to Your
Vehicle” under Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
This message displays when the electronic
sensors that control the air conditioning and
heating systems are no longer working. Have the
climate control system serviced by your dealer
if you notice a drop in heating and air conditioning
efficiency.
REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY
SERVICE AIR BAG
This message displays when the battery in
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter needs
to be replaced. To replace the battery, see
“Battery Replacement” under Remote Keyless
This message displays when there is a problem
with the airbag system. Have your vehicle serviced
by your dealer immediately. See Airbag Readiness
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SERVICE BATTERY CHARGING
SYSTEM
SERVICE POWER STEERING
This message displays when a problem is
detected with the power steering system. When
this message is displayed, you may notice that the
effort required to steer the vehicle increases or
feels heavier, but you will still be able to steer the
vehicle. Have your vehicle serviced by your
dealer immediately.
This message displays when there is a problem
with the generator and battery charging systems.
Driving with this problem could drain the battery.
Turn off all unnecessary accessories. Stop
and turn off the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do
so. Have the electrical system checked by your
dealer immediately.
SERVICE THEFT SYSTEM
SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM
This message displays when there is a problem
with the theft-deterrent system programmed in the
key. A fault has been detected in the system
which means that the system is disabled and it is
not protecting the vehicle. The vehicle usually
restarts; however, you may want to take the
vehicle to your dealer before turning off the engine.
more information.
This message displays when service is required
on the brake system. Have the brake system
serviced by your dealer as soon as possible. The
brake system warning light also appears on
the instrument panel cluster when this message
appears on the DIC. See Brake System Warning
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SERVICE TIRE MONITOR SYSTEM
SERVICE VEHICLE SOON
This message displays if a part on the Tire
Pressure Monitor (TPM) system is not working
properly. If you drive your vehicle while any of the
four sensors are missing or inoperable, the
warning comes on in about 20 minutes. A sensor
would be missing, for example, if you put
different wheels on your vehicle without
transferring the sensors. If the warning comes on
and stays on, there may be a problem with the
TPM. See your dealer.
This message displays when a non-emissions
related malfunction occurs. Have the vehicle
serviced by your dealer as soon as possible.
STARTING DISABLED SERVICE
THROTTLE
This message displays if the starting of the engine
is disabled due to the electronic throttle control
system. Have your vehicle serviced by your dealer
immediately.
SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL
This message only appears while the ignition is in
RUN, and will not disappear until the problem
is resolved.
If your vehicle has the Traction Control System
(TCS), this message displays when the system is
not functioning properly. A warning light also
appears on the instrument panel cluster. See
on page 256 for more information. Have the TCS
serviced by your dealer as soon as possible.
This message cannot be acknowledged.
THEFT ATTEMPTED
This message displays if the content theft-deterrent
system has detected a break-in attempt while
you were away from your vehicle. See Content
SERVICE TRANSMISSION
This message displays when there is a problem
with the transaxle. See your dealer for service.
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Any of the following conditions may cause the
TCS to turn off:
TIGHTEN GAS CAP
This message may be displayed if the gas cap is
not on, or is not fully tightened. Check the gas
cap to ensure that it is on properly. See Filling the
• The TCS is turned off by pressing the traction
control button. See Traction Control System
• The battery is low.
• There is a TCS failure. See your dealer for
service.
TIRE LEARNING ACTIVE
This message displays when the Tire Pressure
Monitor (TPM) system is re-learning the tire
page 363. The tire positions must be re-learned
after rotating the tires or after replacing a tire
for more information.
TRACTION CONTROL ON
If your vehicle has the Traction Control System
(TCS), this message displays when the TCS
is turned on. See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 256 for more information.
TRANSMISSION HOT IDLE ENGINE
TRACTION CONTROL OFF
This message displays when the transaxle fluid in
your vehicle is too hot. Stop the vehicle and
allow it to idle until it cools down. If the warning
message continues to display, have the vehicle
serviced by your dealer as soon as possible.
If your vehicle has the Traction Control System
(TCS), this message displays when the TCS turns
page 256 for more information.
This message only displays while the ignition is in
RUN and disappears after 10 seconds, unless
it is acknowledged or an urgent warning appears.
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TRUNK OPEN
DIC Vehicle Customization
This message displays when the trunk is not
closed completely. Make sure that the trunk is
Your vehicle has customization capabilities that
allow you to program certain features to one
preferred setting. Customization features can only
be programmed to one setting on the vehicle
and cannot be programmed to a preferred setting
for two different drivers.
TURN SIGNAL ON
This message displays as a reminder to turn off
the turn signal if you drive your vehicle for
more than about 0.75 mile (1.2 km) with a turn
page 151.
All of the customization options may not be
available on your vehicle. Only the options
available will be displayed on your DIC.
The default settings for the customization features
were set when your vehicle left the factory, but
may have been changed from their default
state since then.
This message displays and a chime sounds only
when the ignition is in RUN. The message will
not disappear until the turn signal is manually
turned off, or a turn is completed.
The customization preferences are automatically
recalled.
WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID
To change customization preferences, use the
following procedure.
This message displays when the windshield
washer fluid is low. Fill the windshield washer
reservoir as soon as possible. See Engine
location of the windshield washer reservoir. Also,
more information.
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Press the customization button until the
Entering the Feature Settings Menu
1. Turn the ignition on and place the vehicle in
PARK (P).
PRESS V TO DISPLAY IN ENGLISH screen
appears on the DIC display. Press the set/reset
button to display all DIC messages in English.
To avoid excessive drain on the battery, it is
recommended that the headlamps are
turned off.
DISPLAY LANGUAGE
This feature allows you to select the language in
which the DIC messages will appear.
2. Press the customization button to enter the
feature settings menu.
Press the customization button until the DISPLAY
LANGUAGE screen appears on the DIC display.
Press the set/reset button to access the settings
for this feature. Then press the customization
button to scroll through the following choices:
If the menu is not available, FEATURE
SETTINGS AVAILABLE IN PARK will display.
Before entering the menu, make sure the
vehicle is in PARK (P).
Feature Settings Menu Items
ENGLISH (default): All messages will appear in
English.
The following are customization features that allow
you to program settings to the vehicle:
FRANCAIS (French): All messages will appear in
French.
DISPLAY IN ENGLISH
ESPANOL (Spanish): All messages will appear
This feature will only display if a language other
than English has been set. This feature allows you
to change the language in which the DIC
messages appear to English.
in Spanish.
NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
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NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
AUTO DOOR UNLOCK
feature. The current setting will remain.
This feature allows you to select whether or not to
turn off the automatic door unlocking feature. It
also allows you to select which doors and
when the doors will automatically unlock. See
page 102 for more information.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
REMOTE DOOR LOCK
This feature allows you to select the type of
feedback you will receive when locking the vehicle
with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
You will not receive feedback when locking
the vehicle with the RKE transmitter if any of the
doors are open. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
information.
Press the customization button until AUTO DOOR
UNLOCK appears on the DIC display. Press
the set/reset button to access the settings for this
feature. Then press the customization button
to scroll through the following choices:
OFF: None of the doors will automatically unlock.
DRIVER AT KEY OUT: Only the driver’s door
will unlock when the key is taken out of the
ignition.
Press the customization button until REMOTE
DOOR LOCK appears on the DIC display. Press
the set/reset button to access the settings for
this feature. Then press the customization button
to scroll through the following choices:
DRIVER IN PARK: Only the driver’s door will
unlock when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P).
ALL AT KEY OUT: All of the doors will unlock
HORN & LIGHTS OFF: There will be no feedback
when you press the lock button on the RKE
transmitter.
when the key is taken out of the ignition.
ALL IN PARK (default): All of the doors will
unlock when the vehicle is shifted into PARK (P).
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LIGHTS ONLY: The exterior lamps will flash
when you press the lock button on the RKE
transmitter.
Press the customization button until REMOTE
DOOR UNLOCK appears on the DIC display.
Press the set/reset button to access the settings
for this feature. Then press the customization
button to scroll through the following choices:
HORN ONLY: The horn will sound on the second
press of the lock button on the RKE transmitter.
LIGHTS OFF: The exterior lamps will not flash
when you press the unlock button on the RKE
transmitter.
HORN & LIGHTS ON (default): The exterior
lamps will flash when you press the lock button on
the RKE transmitter, and the horn will sound
when the lock button is pressed again within five
seconds of the previous command.
LIGHTS ON (default): The exterior lamps will
flash when you press the unlock button on
the RKE transmitter.
NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
REMOTE DOOR UNLOCK
This feature allows you to select the type of
feedback you will receive when unlocking the
vehicle with the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
transmitter. You will not receive feedback when
unlocking the vehicle with the RKE transmitter
if the doors are open. See Remote Keyless Entry
information.
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EXIT LIGHTING
APPROACH LIGHTING
If it is dark enough outside, this feature allows you
to select the amount of time you want the
exterior lamps to remain on. This happens after
the key is turned from RUN to OFF.
This feature allows you to select whether or not to
have the exterior lights turn on briefly during
low light periods after unlocking the vehicle using
the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
Press the customization button until EXIT
LIGHTING appears on the DIC display. Press the
set/reset button to access the settings for this
feature. Then press the customization button to
scroll through the following choices:
Press the customization button until APPROACH
LIGHTING appears on the DIC display. Press
the set/reset button to access the settings for this
feature. Then press the customization button
to scroll through the following choices:
OFF: The exterior lamps will not turn on.
OFF: The exterior lights will not turn on when you
unlock the vehicle with the RKE transmitter.
30 SECONDS (default): The exterior lamps will
stay on for 30 seconds.
ON (default): If it is dark enough outside, the
exterior lights will turn on briefly when you unlock
the vehicle with the RKE transmitter.
1 MINUTE: The exterior lamps will stay on for
one minute.
The lights will remain on for 20 seconds or until
the lock button on the RKE transmitter is pressed,
or the vehicle is no longer off. See Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 93
for more information.
2 MINUTES: The exterior lamps will stay on for
two minutes.
NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
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NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
REMOTE START
If your vehicle has this feature, it allows you to
turn the remote start off or on. The remote
start feature allows you to start the engine from
outside of the vehicle using your Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) transmitter. See “Remote Vehicle
Start” under Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
CHIME VOLUME
This feature allows you to select the volume level
of the chime.
Press the customization button until REMOTE
START appears on the DIC display. Press
the set/reset button to access the settings for this
feature. Then press the customization button
to scroll through the following choices:
Press the customization button until CHIME
VOLUME appears on the DIC display. Press the
set/reset button to access the settings for this
feature. Then press the customization button to
scroll through the following choices:
OFF: The remote start feature will be disabled.
NORMAL (default): The chime volume will be set
to a normal level.
ON (default): The remote start feature will
be enabled.
LOUD: The chime volume will be set to a loud
level.
NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
NO CHANGE: No change will be made to this
feature. The current setting will remain.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
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FACTORY SETTINGS
EXIT FEATURE SETTINGS
This feature allows you to set all of the
customization features back to their factory default
settings.
This feature allows you to exit the FEATURE
SETTINGS menu.
Press the customization button until FEATURE
SETTINGS PRESS V TO EXIT appears in
the DIC display. Press the set/reset button to exit
the menu.
Press the customization button until FACTORY
SETTINGS appears on the DIC display. Press the
set/reset button to access the settings for this
feature. Then press the customization button to
scroll through the following choices:
If you do not exit, pressing the customization
button again will return you to the beginning of the
FEATURE SETTINGS menu.
RESTORE ALL (default): The customization
features will be set to their factory default settings.
Exiting the Feature Settings Menu
DO NOT RESTORE: The customization features
will not be set to their factory default settings.
The feature settings menu will be exited when any
of the following occurs:
Select one of the available choices and press the
set/reset button while it is displayed on the
DIC to select it.
• The vehicle is shifted out of PARK (P).
• The vehicle is no longer in RUN.
• The trip/fuel or vehicle information DIC buttons
are pressed.
• The end of the feature settings menu is
reached and exited.
• A 40 second time period has elapsed with no
selection made.
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Audio System(s)
Determine which radio your vehicle has and then
read the pages following to familiarize yourself
with its features.
{CAUTION:
This system provides you with a far greater
access to audio stations and song listings.
Giving extended attention to entertainment
tasks while driving can cause a crash and
you or others can be injured or killed.
Always keep your eyes on the road and
your mind on the drive — avoid engaging
in extended searching while driving.
Driving without distraction is a necessity for a
page 248. By taking a few moments to read this
manual and get familiar with your vehicle’s
audio system, you can use it with less effort, as
well as take advantage of its features. While your
vehicle is parked, set up your audio system by
presetting your favorite radio stations, setting the
tone and adjusting the speakers. Then, when
driving conditions permit, you can tune to
Keeping your mind on the drive is important for
safe driving. For more information, see Defensive
your favorite stations using the presets and
steering wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
Here are some ways in which you can help avoid
distraction while driving.
While your vehicle is parked:
• Familiarize yourself with all of its controls.
• Familiarize yourself with its operation.
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• Set up your audio system by presetting your
favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and
adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving
conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite
radio stations using the presets and steering
wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
Setting the Time (Without Date
Display)
If your vehicle has an AM/FM base radio with a
single CD player and preset buttons numbered one
through six, the radio will have a clock button
for setting the time. You can set the time by
following these steps:
Notice: Before adding any sound equipment to
your vehicle, such as an audio system, CD
player, CB radio, mobile telephone, or two-way
radio, make sure that it can be added by
checking with your dealer. Also, check federal
rules covering mobile radio and telephone
units. If sound equipment can be added, it is
very important to do it properly. Added sound
equipment may interfere with the operation of
your vehicle’s engine, radio, or other systems,
and even damage them. Your vehicle’s systems
may interfere with the operation of sound
equipment that has been added.
1. Press the clock button until the hour numbers
begin flashing on the display. Press the clock
button a second time and the minute
numbers will begin flashing on the display.
2. While either the hour or the minute numbers
are flashing, turn the tune knob, located on
the upper right side of the radio, clockwise or
counterclockwise to increase or decrease
the time. Instead of using the tune knob, you
can also press the SEEK, FWD (forward),
or REV (reverse) buttons to adjust the time.
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
3. Press the clock button again until the clock
display stops flashing to set the currently
displayed time; otherwise, the flashing will stop
after five seconds and the current time
displayed will be automatically set.
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To change the time default setting from 12 hour to
24 hour, press the clock button and then the
pushbutton located under the forward arrow label.
Once the time 12H and 24H are displayed,
press the pushbutton located under the desired
option to select the default. Press the clock button
again to apply the selected default, or let the
screen time out.
3. Press the pushbutton located under any one
of the labels that you want to change. Every
time the pushbutton is pressed again, the time
or the date if selected, increases by one.
• Another way to increase the time or date, is
to press the right SEEK arrow or FWD
(forward) button.
• To decrease, press the left SEEK arrow or
REV (reverse) button. You can also turn
the tune knob, located on the upper
right side of the radio, to adjust the selected
setting.
Setting the Time (With Date Display)
If your vehicle has a radio with a single CD
player, the radio has a clock button for setting the
time and date.
The date does not automatically display. The only
way to see the date is by pressing the clock
button when the radio is on. The date with display
times out after a few seconds and goes back to
the normal radio and time display.
To set the time and date, follow these instructions:
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press the clock button and the HR, MIN, MM,
DD, YYYY (hour, minute, month, day, and
year) displays.
If your vehicle has a radio with a six-disc CD
player, the radio has a MENU button instead of
the clock button to set the time and date.
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To set the time and date, follow these instructions:
1. Turn the radio on.
To change the time default setting from 12 hour to
24 hour or to change the date default setting
from month/day/year to day/month/year, follow
these instructions:
2. Press the MENU button. Once the clock
option is displayed.
1. Press the clock button and then the
pushbutton located under the forward arrow
label. Once the time 12H and 24H, and
the date MM/DD/YYYY (month, day, and year)
and DD/MM/YYYY (day, month, and year)
displays.
3. Press the pushbutton located under that label.
The HR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY displays.
4. Press the pushbutton located under any one
of the labels that you want to change. Every
time the pushbutton is pressed again, the time
or the date if selected, increases by one.
2. Press the pushbutton located under the
desired option.
• Another way to increase the time or date, is
to press the right SEEK arrow or FWD
(forward) button.
3. Press the clock or MENU button again to
apply the selected default, or let the screen
time out.
• To decrease, press the left SEEK arrow or
REV (reverse) button. You can also turn the
tune knob, located on the upper right side of
the radio, to adjust the selected setting.
The date does not automatically display. The only
way to see the date is by pressing the MENU
button and then the clock button when the radio is
on. The date with display times out after a
few seconds and goes back to the normal radio
and time display.
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Finding a Station
Radio with CD (Base)
BAND: Press this button to switch between FM1,
FM2, or AM. The selection displays.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select radio stations.
© SEEK ¨: Press the right or left SEEK
arrow to go to the next or to the previous station
and stay there.
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK
arrow for a few seconds until a beep sounds. The
radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds,
then goes to the next station. Press either
SEEK arrow again to stop scanning.
The radio only seeks and scans stations with a
strong signal that are in the selected band.
Playing the Radio
O (Power/Volume): Press this knob to turn the
system on and off.
4(Information): Press this button to switch the
display between the radio station frequency
and the time. While the ignition is off, press this
button to display the time.
Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to
increase or decrease the volume.
The radio goes to the previous volume setting
whenever the radio is turned on. The volume can
still be adjusted by using the volume knob.
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EQ (Equalization): Press this button to select
Setting Preset Stations
preset equalization settings.
Up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM),
can be programmed on the six numbered
pushbuttons, by performing the following steps:
To return to the manual mode, press the EQ
button until Manual appears on the display or start
to manually adjust the bass or treble by pressing
the tune knob.
1. Turn the radio on.
2. Press BAND to select FM1, FM2, or AM.
3. Tune in the desired station.
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
` BAL/FADE (Balance/Fade): To adjust the
balance or fade, press this button or the tune knob
until the desired speaker control label displays.
Turn the tune knob clockwise or counterclockwise
to adjust the setting. The setting can also be
adjusted by pressing either the SEEK, FWD, or
REV buttons.
4. Press and hold one of the six numbered
pushbuttons for three seconds until a beep
sounds. When that pushbutton is pressed and
released, the station that was set, returns.
5. Repeat the Steps 2 through 4 for each
pushbutton.
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
Radio Messages
BASS/TREB (Bass/Treble): To adjust the bass or
treble, press the tune knob or the pushbuttons
located under the BASS/TREB display, until the
desired tone control label displays. Turn the tune
knob clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or
decrease the setting. Adjust the setting by pressing
either the SEEK, FWD (forward), or REV (reverse)
buttons. The current bass or treble level displays. If
a station’s frequency is weak, or has static,
decrease the treble.
Calibration Error: The audio system has been
calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If
Calibration Error displays, it means that the radio
has not been configured properly for your
vehicle and it must be returned to your dealer for
service.
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Loc (Locked): This message displays while the
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up the radio.
Take the vehicle to your dealer for service.
There can be an increase in skipping, difficulty in
finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and
ejecting. If these problems occur, check the bottom
surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD is
damaged, such as cracked, broken, or scratched,
the CD will not play properly. If the surface of the
for more information.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot
be corrected, contact your dealer.
Playing a CD (Single CD Player)
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up.
The player pulls it in and the CD should begin
playing.
If there is no apparent damage, try a known
good CD.
Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert
more than one CD into the slot at a time, or
attempt to play scratched or damaged CDs, you
could damage the CD player. When using the
CD player, use only CDs in good condition
without any label, load one CD at a time, and
keep the CD player and the loading slot free of
foreign materials, liquids, and debris.
If the ignition or radio is turned off with a CD in the
player, it stays in the player. When the ignition or
radio is turned on, the CD starts playing where it
stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol displays.
As each new track starts to play, the track number
displays.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm)
single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and
the smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.
Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught
in the CD player. If a CD is recorded on a
personal computer and a description label is
needed, try labeling the top of the recorded CD
with a marking pen.
If playing a CD-R, the sound quality can be reduced
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording,
the quality of the music that has been recorded,
and the way the CD-R has been handled.
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If an error displays, see “CD Messages” later in
this section.
RDM (Random): With the random setting, you
can listen to CD tracks in random, rather than
sequential order. To use random, do the following:
Z EJECT: Press the CD eject button to
eject the CD. If the CD is not removed, after
several seconds, the CD automatically pulls back
into the player.
1. Press this button to play tracks from the CD
you are listening to in random order. The
random icon displays.
2. Press this button again to turn off random play.
The random icon disappears from the display.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select tracks on the
CD currently playing.
RPT (Repeat): With repeat, one track or an entire
© SEEK ¨: Press the left SEEK arrow to
go to the start of the current track, if more than
ten seconds have played. Press the right SEEK
arrow to go to the next track. If either SEEK arrow is
held or pressed multiple times, the player continues
moving backward or forward through the CD.
CD can be repeated.
• To repeat the track you are listening to,
press and release the RPT button. An arrow
symbol displays. Press RPT again to turn
off repeat play.
• To repeat the CD you are listening to, press
and hold the RPT button for a few seconds.
An arrow symbol displays. Press RPT again to
turn off repeat play. When repeat is off, the
symbol no longer displays.
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button
to reverse playback quickly within a track. You will
hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this
pushbutton to resume playing the track. The
elapsed time of the track displays.
\ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this
pushbutton to advance playback quickly within a
track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume.
Release this pushbutton to resume playing
the track. The elapsed time of the track displays.
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4(Information): Press this button to switch the
display between the track number, elapsed time of
the track, and the time. When the ignition is off,
press this button to display the time.
CD Messages
CHECK DISC: If an error message displays
and/or the CD ejects, it could be for one of the
following reasons:
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio
while a CD is playing. The CD remains inside the
radio for future listening.
• It is very hot. When the temperature returns
to normal, the CD should play.
• You are driving on a very rough road.
When the road becomes smoother, the CD
should play.
CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play
a CD while listening to the radio. The CD icon
and track number displays while a CD is in
the player. Press this button again and the system
automatically searches for an auxiliary input
device such as a portable audio player.
• The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or
upside down.
• The air is very humid. If so, wait about an
hour and try again.
• There could have been a problem while
burning the CD-R.
• The label could be caught in the CD player.
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any
other reason, try a known good CD.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot
be corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio
displays an error message, write it down and
provide it to your dealer while reporting the
problem.
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Using the Auxiliary Input Jack
O (Power/Volume): Turn this knob clockwise or
counterclockwise to increase or decrease the
volume of the portable player. You might need to
make additional volume adjustments from the
portable device.
Your radio system has an auxiliary input jack
located on the lower right side of the faceplate.
This is not an audio output; do not plug the
headphone set into the front auxiliary input jack.
You can however, connect an external audio
device such as an iPod, laptop computer, MP3
player, CD changer, or cassette tape player, etc. to
the auxiliary input jack for use as another source
for audio listening.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio
while a portable audio device is playing. The
portable audio device continues playing, so you
might want to stop it or turn it off.
CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play
a CD while a portable audio device is playing.
Press this button again and the system begins
playing audio from the connected portable audio
player. If a portable audio player is not
Drivers are encouraged to set up any auxiliary
device while the vehicle is in PARK (P). See
information on driver distraction.
connected, “No Input Device Found” displays.
To use a portable audio player, connect a 3.5 mm
(1/8 inch) cable to the radio’s front auxiliary
input jack. When a device is connected, press the
radio CD/AUX button to begin playing audio
from the device over the vehicle speakers.
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While the radio is tuned to an FM-RDS station, the
station name or call letters display. In rare cases, a
radio station can broadcast incorrect information
that causes the radio features to work improperly.
If this happens, contact the radio station.
Radio with CD (MP3)
XM™ Satellite Radio Service
XM™ is a satellite radio service that is based in
the 48 contiguous United States and Canada.
XM™ offers a large variety of coast-to-coast
channels including music, news, sports, talk,
traffic/weather (U.S. subscribers), and children’s
programming. XM™ provides digital quality
audio and text information that includes song title
and artist name. A service fee is required in
order to receive the XM™ service. For more
information, contact XM™; In the U.S. at
www.xmradio.com or call 1-800-852-XMXM (9696)
or in Canada at www.xmradio.ca or call
Radio with CD (MP3) shown, Radio with
Six-Disc CD (MP3) similar
Radio Data System (RDS)
1-877-GET-XMSR (438-9677).
The audio system has a Radio Data System
(RDS). The RDS feature is available for use only
on FM stations that broadcast RDS information.
This system relies upon receiving specific
information from these stations and only works
when the information is available.
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The display times out after approximately
10 seconds. Each higher setting allows
for more radio volume compensation at faster
vehicle speeds.
Playing the Radio
O (Power/Volume): Press this knob to turn the
system on and off.
Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to
increase or decrease the volume.
Finding a Station
BAND: Press this button to switch between AM,
FM, or XM™ (if equipped). The selection
displays.
Speed Compensated Volume (SCV): The radio
has Speed Compensated Volume (SCV). When
SCV is on, the radio volume automatically adjusts
to compensate for road and wind noise as you
speed up or slow down while driving. That way, the
volume level should sound about the same as
you drive. To activate SCV:
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select radio stations.
© SEEK ¨: Press the right or left SEEK
arrow to go to the next or to the previous station
and stay there.
1. Set the radio volume to the desired level.
To scan stations, press and hold either SEEK
arrow for a few seconds until a beep sounds. The
radio goes to a station, plays for a few seconds,
then goes to the next station. Press either
SEEK arrow again to stop scanning.
2. Press the MENU button to display the radio
setup menu.
3. Press the pushbutton under the AUTO
VOLUM (automatic volume) label on the radio
display.
The radio only seeks and scans stations with a
strong signal that are in the selected band.
4. Press the pushbutton under the desired
Speed Compensated Volume setting
(OFF, Low, Med (medium), or High) to select
the level of radio volume compensation.
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FAV (Favorites): A maximum of 36 stations can
be programmed as favorites using the
4(Information) (XM™ Satellite Radio Service,
MP3, and RDS Features): Press the information
button to display additional text information
related to the current FM-RDS or XM™ station, or
MP3 song. A choice of additional information
such as: Channel, Song, Artist, and CAT
(category) can 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 displays.
six pushbuttons positioned below the radio station
frequency labels and by using the radio favorites
page button (FAV button). Press the FAV button to
go through up to six pages of favorites, each
having six favorite stations available per page.
Each page of favorites can contain any
combination of AM, FM, or XM™ (if equipped)
stations. To store a station as a favorite, perform
the following steps:
1. Tune to the desired radio station.
While information is not available, No Info displays.
2. Press the FAV button to display the page
where you want the station stored.
Storing a Radio Station as a Favorite
Drivers are encouraged to set up their radio station
favorites while the vehicle is in PARK (P). Tune
to your favorite stations using the presets, favorites
button, and steering wheel controls if the vehicle
page 248.
3. Press and hold one of the six pushbuttons
until a beep sounds. Whenever that
pushbutton is pressed and released, the
station that was set, returns.
4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton radio
station you want stored as a favorite.
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The number of favorites pages can be setup using
the MENU button. To setup the number of
favorites pages, perform the following steps:
Turn the tune knob clockwise or counterclockwise
to adjust the highlighted setting. The highlighted
setting can also be adjusted by pressing either the
SEEK, FWD (forward) or REV (reverse) button
until the desired levels are obtained. If a station’s
frequency is weak, or has static, decrease the
treble.
1. Press the MENU button to display the radio
setup menu.
2. Press the pushbutton located below the
FAV 1-6 label.
To quickly adjust bass, midrange, or treble to the
middle position, press the pushbutton positioned
under the BASS, MID (midrange), or TREB (treble)
label for more than two seconds. A beep sounds
and the level adjusts to the middle position.
3. Select the desired number of favorites pages
by pressing the pushbutton located below the
displayed page numbers.
4. Press the FAV button, or let the menu time
out, to return to the original main radio
screen showing the radio station frequency
labels and to begin the process of
To quickly adjust all tone and speaker controls to
the middle position, press the tune knob for
more than two seconds until a beep sounds.
programming your favorites for the chosen
amount of numbered pages.
EQ (Equalization): Press this button to select
preset equalization settings.
Setting the Tone
To return to the manual mode, press the EQ
button until Manual displays or start to manually
adjust the bass, midrange, or treble by pressing
the tune knob.
(Bass/Midrange/Treble)
BASS/MID/TREB (Bass, Midrange, or Treble):
To adjust bass, midrange, or treble, press the tune
knob until the tone control labels display.
Continue pressing to highlight the desired label, or
press the pushbutton positioned under the
desired label.
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Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
Finding a Category (CAT) Station
BAL/FADE (Balance/Fade): To adjust balance
or fade, press the tune knob until the speaker
control labels display. Continue pressing to
highlight the desired label, or press the pushbutton
positioned under the desired label. Turn the
tune knob clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust
the highlighted setting. The highlighted setting
can also be adjusted by pressing either the SEEK,
FWD (forward), or REV (reverse) button until
the desired levels are obtained.
CAT (Category): The CAT button is used to find
XM™ stations while the radio is in the XM™
mode. To find XM™ channels within a desired
category, perform the following:
1. Press the BAND button until the XM™
frequency displays. Press the CAT button to
display the category labels on the radio
display. Continue pressing the CAT button
until the desired category name displays.
2. Press either of the two buttons below the
desired category label to immediately tune
to the first XM™ station associated with that
category.
To quickly adjust balance or fade to the middle
position, press the pushbutton positioned under the
BAL or FADE label for more than two seconds.
A beep sounds and the level adjusts to the middle
position.
3. Turn the tune knob, press the buttons below
the right or left arrows displayed, or press the
right or left SEEK buttons to go to the next
or previous XM™ station within the selected
category.
To quickly adjust all speaker and tone controls to
the middle position, press the tune knob for
more than two seconds until a beep sounds.
4. To exit the category search mode, press the
FAV button or BAND button to display your
favorites again.
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Undesired XM™ categories can be removed
through the setup menu. To remove an undesired
category, perform the following:
Radio Messages
Calibration Error: The audio system has been
calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If
Calibration Error displays, it means that the radio
has not been configured properly for your
vehicle and it must be returned to your dealer for
service.
1. Press the MENU button to display the radio
setup menu.
2. Press the pushbutton located below the XM
CAT label.
3. Turn the tune knob to display the category
you want removed.
Locked: This message is displayed when the
THEFTLOCK® system has locked up the
4. Press the pushbutton located under the
Remove label until the category name
along with the word Removed displays.
radio. Take the vehicle to your dealer for service.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error
cannot be corrected, contact your dealer.
5. Repeat the steps to remove more categories.
Radio Messages for XM Only
Removed categories can be restored by pressing
the pushbutton under the Add label when a
removed category displays or by pressing the
pushbutton under the Restore All label.
section for further detail.
Playing a CD (Single CD Player)
The radio does not allow you to remove or add
categories while the vehicle is moving faster than
5 mph (8 km/h).
Insert a CD partway into the slot, label side up.
The player pulls it in and the CD should begin
playing.
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If the ignition or radio is turned off, with a CD in the
player, it stays in the player. When the ignition or
radio is turned on, the CD starts playing where it
stopped, if it was the last selected audio source.
Playing a CD(s) (Six-Disc CD Player)
LOAD ^: Press this button to load CDs into the
CD player. This CD player holds up to six CDs.
When a CD is inserted, the CD symbol displays on
the CD. As each new track starts to play, the
track number displays.
To insert one CD, do the following:
1. Press and release the load button.
2. Wait for the message to insert the disc.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm)
single CDs with an adapter ring. Full-size CDs and
the smaller CDs are loaded in the same manner.
3. Load a CD. Insert the CD partway into the slot,
label side up. The player pulls the CD in.
To insert multiple CDs, do the following:
If playing a CD-R, the sound quality can be
reduced due to CD-R quality, the method of
recording, the quality of the music that has been
recorded, and the way the CD-R has been
handled. There can be an increase in skipping,
difficulty in finding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading
and ejecting. If these problems occur, check the
bottom surface of the CD. If the surface of the CD
is damaged, such as cracked, broken, or
1. Press and hold the load button for
two seconds. A beep sounds and Load All
Discs displays.
2. Follow the displayed instruction on when to
insert the discs. The CD player takes up to
six CDs.
3. Press the Load button again to cancel loading
more CDs.
scratched, the CD will not play properly. If the
surface of the CD is soiled, see Care of Your CDs
on page 244 for more information.
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If there is no apparent damage, try a known
good CD.
For the Six-Disc CD player, press and hold the eject
button for two seconds to eject all discs.
Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert
more than one CD into the slot at a time, or
attempt to play scratched or damaged CDs, you
could damage the CD player. When using the
CD player, use only CDs in good condition
without any label, load one CD at a time, and
keep the CD player and the loading slot free of
foreign materials, liquids, and debris.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select tracks on the
CD currently playing.
© SEEK ¨: Press the left SEEK arrow to
go to the start of the current track, if more than
ten seconds have played. Press the right
SEEK arrow to go to the next track. If either SEEK
arrow is held, or pressed multiple times, the
player continues moving backward or forward
through the tracks on the CD.
Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught
in the CD player. If a CD is recorded on a
personal computer and a description label is
needed, try labeling the top of the recorded CD
with a marking pen.
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button
to reverse playback quickly within a track. You will
hear sound at a reduced volume. Release this
pushbutton to resume playing the track. The
elapsed time of the track displays.
If an error displays, see “CD Messages” later in
this section.
Z EJECT: Press the CD eject button to eject
CD(s). To eject the CD that is currently playing,
press and release this button. A beep sounds and
Ejecting Disc displays. Once the disc is ejected,
Remove Disc displays. The CD can be removed. If
the CD is not removed, after several seconds, the
CD automatically pulls back into the player and
begin playing.
\ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this
button to advance playback quickly within a track.
You will hear sound at a reduced volume.
Release this button to resume playing the track.
The elapsed time of the track displays.
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RDM (Random): With the random setting, the
tracks can be played in random, rather than
sequential order, on one CD or all CDs in a
six-disc CD player. To use random, do one of the
following:
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio
while a CD is playing. The CD remains safely
inside the radio for future listening.
CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play
a CD while listening to the radio. The CD icon
and a message showing disc and/or track number
displays when a CD is in the player. Press this
button again and the system automatically
searches for an auxiliary input device, such as a
portable audio player. If a portable audio player is
not connected, No Aux Input Device Found
displays.
• Press the CD/AUX button, or for a single CD
player, insert a disc partway into the slot of
the CD player. A RDM label displays.
To play the tracks from the single CD in
random order, press the pushbutton positioned
under the RDM label until Random Current
Disc displays. Press the pushbutton again to
turn off random play.
Playing an MP3 CD-R or CD-RW Disc
• Press the CD/AUX button, or for a six-disc CD
player, press and hold the LOAD button. A
beep sounds and Load All Discs displays.
Insert one or more discs partway into the slot
of the CD player.
Your vehicle’s radio system may have the
MP3 feature. If it has this feature, it is capable of
playing an MP3 CD-R or CD-RW disc. For
more information on how to play an MP3 CD-R or
later in this section.
To play tracks 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 displays. Press
the same pushbutton again to turn off
random play.
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CD Messages
Using the Auxiliary Input Jack
Your radio system has an auxiliary input jack
located on the lower right side of the faceplate.
This is not an audio output; do not plug the
headphone set into the front auxiliary input jack.
You can however, connect an external audio
device such as an iPod, laptop computer, MP3
player, CD changer, or cassette tape player, etc. to
the auxiliary input jack for use as another source
for audio listening.
CHECK DISC: If an error message displays
and/or the CD comes out, it could be for one of
the following reasons:
• It is very hot. When the temperature returns to
normal, the CD should play.
• You are driving on a very rough road.
When the road becomes smoother, the CD
should play.
• The CD is dirty, scratched, wet, or
upside down.
Drivers are encouraged to set up any auxiliary
device while the vehicle is in PARK (P). See
information on driver distraction.
• The air is very humid. If so, wait about an
hour and try again.
To use a portable audio player, connect a 3.5 mm
(1/8 inch) cable to the radio’s front auxiliary
input jack. When a device is connected, press the
radio CD/AUX button to begin playing audio
from the device over the vehicle speakers.
• There could have been a problem while
burning the CD.
• The label could be caught in the CD player.
If the CD is not playing correctly, for any
other reason, try a known good CD.
O (Power/Volume): Turn this knob clockwise or
counterclockwise to increase or decrease the
volume of the portable player. You might need to
make additional volume adjustments from the
portable device.
If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot
be corrected, contact your dealer. If the radio
displays an error message, write it down
and provide it to your dealer while reporting the
problem.
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BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio
while a portable audio device is playing. The
portable audio device continues playing, so you
might want to stop it or turn it off.
Compressed Audio
The radio also plays discs that contain both
uncompressed CD audio (.CDA files) and
MP3/WMA files. By default the radio reads only
the uncompressed audio and ignores the
MP3 files. Pressing the CAT (category) button
toggles between compressed and uncompressed
audio format.
CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play
a CD while a portable audio device is playing.
Press this button again and the system begins
playing audio from the connected portable audio
player. If a portable audio player is not
MP3 Format
connected, No Aux Input Device Found displays.
If you burn your own MP3 disc on a personal
computer:
Using an MP3
• Make sure the MP3 files are recorded on a
CD-R or CD-RW disc.
MP3 CD-R or CD-RW Disc
• Avoid mixing standard audio and MP3 files on
one disc.
The radio plays MP3 files that were recorded on a
CD-R or CD-RW disc. The files can be recorded
with the following fixed bit rates: 32 kbps, 40 kbps,
56 kbps, 64 kbps, 80 kbps, 96 kbps, 112 kbps,
128 kbps, 160 kbps, 192 kbps, 224 kbps, 256 kbps,
and 320 kbps or a variable bit rate. Song title, artist
name, and album can display when files are
recorded using ID3 tags version 1 and 2.
• Make sure the CD does not have more than
50 folders, 50 playlists, and 255 files to read
and play.
• Create a folder structure that makes it easy to
find songs while driving. Organize songs by
albums using one folder for each album.
Each folder or album should contain 18 songs
or less.
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Change playlists by using the previous and next
folder buttons, the tuner knob, or the seek buttons.
An MP3 CD-R that was recorded using no file
folders can also be played. If a CD-R contains
more than the maximum of 50 folders, 50 playlists,
and 255 files, the player lets you access and
navigate up to the maximum, but all items over
the maximum cannot be accessed.
• Avoid subfolders. The system can support up to
8 subfolders deep, however, keep the total
number of folders to a minimum in order to
reduce the complexity and confusion in trying to
locate a particular folder during playback.
• Make sure playlists have a .m3u or .wpl
extension (other file extensions may not work).
• Minimize the length of the file, folder or playlist
names. Long file, folder, or playlist names, or a
combination of a large number of files and
folders, or playlists can cause the player to be
unable to play up to the maximum number of
files, folders, playlists, or sessions. If you wish
to play a large number of files, folders, playlists
or sessions, minimize the length of the file,
folder or playlist name. Long names also take
up more space on the display, potentially
getting cut off.
Root Directory
The root directory of the CD-R is treated as a
folder. If the root directory has compressed audio
files, the directory displays as F1 ROOT. All
files contained directly under the root directory are
accessed prior to any root directory folders.
However, playlists (Px) are always accessed
before root folders or files.
Empty Directory or Folder
If a root directory or a folder exists somewhere
in the file structure that contains only
folders/subfolders and no compressed files
directly beneath them, the player advances to the
next folder in the file structure that contains
compressed audio files. The empty folder is not
numbered or displayed.
• Finalize the audio disc before you burn it.
Trying to add music to an existing disc can
cause the disc not to function in the player.
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No Folder
• Play begins from the first track in the first
folder and continues sequentially through
all tracks in each folder. When the last track of
the last folder has played, play continues
from the first track of the first folder.
When the CD-R contains only compressed files,
the files are located under the root folder. The next
and previous folder functions do not function on
a CD-R that was recorded without folders or
playlists. When displaying the name of the folder
the radio displays ROOT.
When play enters a new folder, the display does
not automatically show the new folder name unless
you have chosen the folder mode as the default
display. The new track name displays.
When the CD-R contains only playlists and
compressed audio files, but no folders, all files are
located under the root folder. The folder down
and the folder up buttons searches playlists (Px)
first and then goes to the root folder. When
the radio displays the name of the folder the radio
displays ROOT.
File System and Naming
The song name that displays is the song name that
is contained in the ID3 tag. If the song name is not
present in the ID3 tag, then the radio displays the
file name without the extension (such as .mp3) as
the track name.
Order of Play
Tracks recorded to the CD-R are played in the
following order:
Track names longer than 32 characters or four
pages are shortened. The display does not show
parts of words on the last page of text and the
extension of the filename is not displayed.
• Play begins from the first track in the first
playlist and continues sequentially through
all tracks in each playlist. When the last track
of the last playlist has played, play continues
from the first track of the first playlist.
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If playing a CD-R, the sound quality can be reduced
due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the
quality of the music that has been recorded, and the
way the CD-R has been handled. There can be an
increase in skipping, difficulty in finding tracks,
and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting. If these
problems occur, check the bottom surface of the
CD. If the surface of the CD is damaged, such as
cracked, broken, or scratched, the CD will not play
properly. If the surface of the CD is soiled, see Care
Preprogrammed Playlists
Preprogrammed playlists that were created using
WinAmp™, MusicMatch™, or Real Jukebox™
software can be accessed, however, you do not
have playlist editing capability using the radio.
These playlists are treated as special folders
containing compressed audio song files.
Playing an MP3
Insert a CD-R partway into the slot (Single CD
Player), or press the load button and wait for the
message to insert disc (Six-Disc CD Player),
label side up. The player pulls it in, and the CD-R
should begin playing.
If there is no apparent damage, try a known
good CD.
Notice: If you add any label to a CD, insert
more than one CD into the slot at a time, or
attempt to play scratched or damaged CDs, you
could damage the CD player. When using the
CD player, use only CDs in good condition
without any label, load one CD at a time, and
keep the CD player and the loading slot free of
foreign materials, liquids, and debris.
If the ignition or radio is turned off with a CD-R in
the player it stays in the player. When the
ignition or radio is turned on, the CD-R starts to
play where it stopped, if it was the last selected
audio source.
As each new track starts to play, the track number
and song title displays.
The CD player can play the smaller 3 inch (8 cm)
single CD-Rs with an adapter ring. Full-size
CD-Rs and the smaller CD-Rs are loaded in the
same manner.
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Do not add any label to a CD, it could get caught in
the CD player. If a CD is recorded on a personal
computer and a description label is needed, try
labeling the top of the recorded CD with a
marking pen.
© SEEK ¨: Press the left SEEK arrow to
go to the start of the current MP3 file, if more than
ten seconds have played. Press the right SEEK
arrow to go to the next MP3 file. If either SEEK
arrow is held or pressed multiple times, the player
continues moving backward or forward through
MP3 files on the CD.
If an error displays, see “CD Messages” later in this
section.
S c (Previous Folder): Press the pushbutton
positioned under the Folder label to go to the
first track in the previous folder.
Z EJECT: Press the CD eject button to eject
CD-R(s). To eject the CD-R that is currently playing,
press and release this button. A beep sounds and
Ejecting Disc displays. Once the disc is ejected,
Remove Disc displays. The CD-R can be removed.
If the CD-R is not removed, after several seconds,
the CD-R automatically pulls back into the player
and begins playing. For the Six-Disc CD player,
press and hold the eject button for two seconds to
eject all discs.
c T(Next Folder): Press the pushbutton
positioned under the Folder label to go to the first
track in the next folder.
s REV (Reverse): Press and hold this button
to reverse playback quickly within an MP3 file. You
will hear sound at a reduced volume. Release
this button to resume playing the file. The elapsed
time of the file displays.
f (Tune): Turn this knob to select MP3 files on the
CD-R currently playing.
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\ FWD (Fast Forward): Press and hold this
button to advance playback quickly within an MP3
file. You will hear sound at a reduced volume.
Release this button to resume playing the file. The
elapsed time of the file displays.
h (Music Navigator): Use the music navigator
feature to play MP3 files on the CD-R in order
by artist or album. Press the pushbutton located
below the music navigator label. The player scans
the disc to sort the files by artist and album ID3
tag information. It can take several minutes to scan
the disc depending on the number of MP3 files
recorded to the CD-R. The radio might begin
playing while it is scanning the disc in the
background. When the scan is finished, the CD-R
begins playing again.
RDM (Random): With the random setting, MP3
files can be played on the CD-R in random, rather
than sequential order, on one CD-R or all discs
in a six-disc CD player. To use random, do one of
the following:
1. To play MP3 files in random order from the
CD-R that is currently playing, press the
Once the disc has scanned, the player defaults to
playing MP3 files in order by artist. The current
artist playing is shown on the second line of
the display between the arrows. Once all songs by
that artist are played, the player moves to the
next artist in alphabetical order on the CD-R and
begins playing MP3 files by that artist. If you
want to listen to MP3 files by another artist, press
the pushbutton located below either arrow
pushbutton positioned under the RDM label
until Random Current Disc displays. Press the
same pushbutton again to turn off random play.
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 displays. Press the
same pushbutton again to turn off random play.
button. The CD goes to the next or previous artist
in alphabetical order. Continue pressing either
button until the desired artist displays.
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To change from playback by artist to playback by
album, press the pushbutton located below the
Sort By label. From the sort screen, push one of
the buttons below the album button. Press the
pushbutton below the back label to return to the
main music navigator screen. Now the album
name displays on the second line between
the arrows and songs from the current album
begins to play. Once all songs from that album
have played, the player moves to the next album in
alphabetical order on the CD-R and begins
playing MP3 files from that album.
BAND: Press this button to listen to the radio
while a CD is playing. The CD remains inside the
radio for future listening.
CD/AUX (CD/Auxiliary): Press this button to play
a CD while listening to the radio. The CD icon
and a message showing disc and/or track number
displays while a CD is in the player. Press this
button again and the system automatically
searches for an auxiliary input device such as a
portable audio player. If a portable audio player is
not connected, No Aux Input Device Found
displays.
To exit music navigator mode, press the
pushbutton below the Back label to return to
normal MP3 playback.
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XM Radio Messages
Radio Display Message
Condition
Action Required
XL (Explicit Language
Channels)
XL on the radio display,
after the channel name,
indicates content with
explicit language.
These channels, or any others, can be blocked at a
customer’s request, by calling 1-800-852-XMXM (9696).
XM Updating
No XM Signal
Loading XM
Updating encryption code The encryption code in the receiver is being updated, and
no action is required. This process should take no longer
than 30 seconds.
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.
Acquiring channel audio
The audio system is acquiring and processing audio and
(after four second delay) text data. No action is needed. This message should
disappear shortly.
Channel Off Air
Channel Unavail
Channel not in service
This channel is not currently in service. Tune to another
channel.
This previously assigned channel is no longer assigned.
Tune to another station. If this station was one of the
presets, choose another station for that preset button.
Channel no longer
available
No Artist Info
No Title Info
No CAT Info
No Information
Artist Name/Feature
not available
Song/Program Title
not available
Category Name
not available
No Text/Informational
message available
No artist information is available at this time on this channel.
The system is working properly.
No song title information is available at this time on this
channel. The system is working properly.
No category information is available at this time on this
channel. The system is working properly.
No text or informational messages are available at this time
on this channel. The system is working properly.
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Radio Display Message
Condition
Action Required
CAT Not Found
No channel available for
the chosen category
Theftlock® active
There are no channels available for the selected category.
The system is working properly.
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
displays after having your vehicle serviced, check with your
dealer.
XM Theft Locked
XM Radio ID
Unknown
Radio ID label (channel 0) If tuned to channel 0, this message alternates with the
XM™ Radio eight digit radio ID label. This label is needed
to activate the service.
Radio ID not known
(should only be if
hardware failure)
If this message is received when tuned to channel 0, there
could be a receiver fault. Consult with your dealer.
Check XM Receivr
XM Not Available
Hardware failure
If this message does not clear within a short period of time,
the receiver could have a fault. Consult with your dealer.
If this message does not clear within a short period of time,
the receiver could have a fault. Consult with your dealer.
XM™ Not Available
With THEFTLOCK® activated, the radio cannot
operate if stolen.
Theft-Deterrent Feature
THEFTLOCK® is designed to discourage theft
of your vehicle’s radio. The feature works
automatically by learning a portion of the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN). If the radio is
moved to a different vehicle, it does not operate
and LOCKED displays.
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g (Mute/Voice Recognition): Press and release
this button to silence the system. Press and
release this button again, to turn the sound on.
If your vehicle has OnStar®, press and hold
this button for longer than one second to interact
information.
Audio Steering Wheel Controls
The audio steering
wheel controls may be
different depending
on your vehicle’s
options. Some audio
controls can be adjusted
at the steering wheel.
They include the
SRCE (Source): Press this button to switch
between AM, FM, XM (if equipped), CD, and AUX
jack.
following:
+ e − e (Volume): Press the plus or minus
button to increase or to decrease the radio volume.
xw (Next/Previous): Press the up or the down
arrow to go to the next or to the previous radio
station stored as a favorite.
¨ (Seek): Press the seek arrow to go to the
next radio station and stay there.
When a CD is playing, press the up or the down
arrow to go to the next or previous track.
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FM Stereo
Radio Reception
FM stereo will give the best sound, but FM signals
will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km).
Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals,
causing the sound to fade in and out.
You may experience frequency interference and
static during normal radio reception if items
such as cellphone chargers, vehicle convenience
accessories, and external electronic devices
are plugged into the accessory power outlet. If
there is interference or static, unplug the item from
the accessory power outlet.
XM™ Satellite Radio Service
XM™ Satellite Radio Service gives digital radio
reception from coast-to-coast in the 48 contiguous
United States, and in Canada. Just as with FM, tall
buildings or hills can interfere with satellite 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 the
XM™ signal for a period of time. The radio may
display NO XM SIGNAL to indicate interference.
AM
The range for most AM stations is greater than for
FM, especially at night. The longer range can cause
station frequencies to interfere with each other. For
better radio reception, most AM radio stations will
boost the power levels during the day, and then
reduce these levels during the night. Static can also
occur when things like storms and power lines
interfere with radio reception. When this happens,
try reducing the treble on your radio.
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Care of Your CDs
Backglass Antenna
Handle CDs carefully. Store them in their original
cases or other protective cases and away from
direct sunlight and dust. The CD player scans the
bottom surface of the disc. If the surface of a
CD is damaged, such as cracked, broken,
or scratched, the CD will not play properly or not
at all. If the surface of a CD is soiled, take a
soft, lint free cloth or dampen a clean, soft cloth in
a mild, neutral detergent solution mixed with
water, and clean it. Make sure the wiping process
starts from the center to the edge.
The AM-FM antenna is integrated with the rear
window defogger, located in the rear window. Make
sure that the inside surface of the rear window is
not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not
damaged. If the inside surface is damaged, it could
interfere with radio reception. Also, for proper radio
reception, the antenna connector at the top-center
of the rear window needs to be properly attached to
the post on the glass.
Notice: Do not apply aftermarket glass tinting
with metallic film. The metallic film in some
tinting materials will interfere with or distort the
incoming radio reception. Any damage caused
to your backglass antenna due to metallic
tinting materials will not be covered by your
warranty.
Do not touch the bottom side of a CD while
handling it; this could damage the surface. Pick up
CDs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of
the hole and the outer edge.
Care of the CD Player
Notice: Using a razor blade or sharp object to
clear the inside rear window may damage the
rear window antenna and/or the rear window
defogger. Repairs would not be covered by your
warranty. Do not clear the inside rear window
with sharp objects.
Do not use CD lens cleaners for CD players
because the lens of the CD optics can become
contaminated by lubricants.
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Because this antenna is built into your rear window,
there is a reduced risk of damage caused by car
washes and vandals.
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna
System
The XM™ Satellite Radio antenna is located on the
roof of your vehicle. Keep this antenna clear of
snow and 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.
If static is heard on the radio, when the rear window
defogger is turned on, it could mean that a defogger
grid line has been damaged. If this is true, the grid
line must be repaired.
If you choose to add a cellular telephone to your
vehicle, and the antenna needs to be attached to
the glass, make sure that you do not damage the
grid lines for the AM-FM antenna. There is enough
space between the lines to attach a cellular
telephone antenna without interfering with radio
reception.
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.
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✍ NOTES
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Your Driving, the Road, and
Your Vehicle
{CAUTION:
Defensive driving really means “Be ready
for anything.” On city streets, rural roads,
or expressways, it means “Always expect
the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians
or other drivers are going to be careless
and make mistakes. Anticipate what they
might do and be ready. Rear-end collisions
are about the most preventable of
Defensive Driving
The best advice anyone can give about driving is:
Drive defensively.
Please start with a very important safety device in
your vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They
accidents. Yet they are common. Allow
enough following distance. Defensive
driving requires that a driver concentrate
on the driving task. Anything that distracts
from the driving task makes proper
defensive driving more difficult and can
even cause a collision, with resulting
injury. Ask a passenger to help do these
things, or pull off the road in a safe place to
do them. These simple defensive driving
techniques could save your life.
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Many adults — by some estimates, nearly half
the adult population — choose never to drink
alcohol, so they never drive after drinking.
For persons under 21, it is against the law in
every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good
medical, psychological, and developmental
reasons for these laws.
Drunken Driving
Death and injury associated with drinking and
driving is a national tragedy. It is the number
one contributor to the highway death toll,
claiming thousands of victims every year.
Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to
drive a vehicle:
The obvious way to eliminate the leading highway
safety problem is for people never to drink
alcohol and then drive. But what if people do?
How much is “too much” if someone plans
to drive? It is a lot less than many might think.
Although it depends on each person and situation,
here is some general information on the problem.
• Judgment
• Muscular Coordination
• Vision
• Attentiveness
Police records show that almost half of all motor
vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most
cases, these deaths are the result of someone who
was drinking and driving. In recent years, more
than 16,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths
have been associated with the use of alcohol, with
more than 300,000 people injured.
The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of
someone who is drinking depends upon
four things:
• The amount of alcohol consumed
• The drinker’s body weight
• The amount of food that is consumed before
and during drinking
• The length of time it has taken the drinker to
consume the alcohol
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According to the American Medical Association,
a 180 lb (82 kg) person who drinks three 12 ounce
(355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up
with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person
would reach the same BAC by drinking three
4 ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed
drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of
liquors like whiskey, gin, or vodka.
It is the amount of alcohol that counts. For example,
if the same person drank three double martinis
(3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour,
the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent.
A person who consumes food just before or during
drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
There is a gender difference, too. Women
generally have a lower relative percentage of
body water than men. Since alcohol is carried in
body water, this means that a woman generally
will reach a higher BAC level than a man of
her same body weight will when each has the
same number of drinks.
The law in most U.S. states, and throughout
Canada, sets the legal limit at 0.08 percent.
In some other countries, the limit is even lower.
For example, it is 0.05 percent in both France
and Germany. The BAC limit for all commercial
drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent.
The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to
six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we have
seen, it depends on how much alcohol is in the
drinks, and how quickly the person drinks them.
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But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC
of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving
skills of many people are impaired at a BAC
There is something else about drinking and driving
that many people do not know. Medical research
shows that alcohol in a person’s system can make
crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the
brain, spinal cord, or heart. This means that when
anyone who has been drinking — driver or
passenger — is in a crash, that person’s chance
of being killed or permanently disabled is
higher than if the person had not been drinking.
approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are
worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC
levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the
chance of being in a collision increases sharply for
drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above.
A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has
doubled his or her chance of having a collision. At a
BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of this driver
having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of
0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!
{CAUTION:
Drinking and then driving is very
dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions,
attentiveness, and judgment can be
affected by even a small amount of
alcohol. You can have a serious — or
even fatal — collision if you drive after
drinking. Please do not drink and drive
or ride with a driver who has been
drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if you
are with a group, designate a driver
who will not drink.
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the
alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or
number of cold showers will speed that up.
“I will be careful” is not the right answer. What if
there is an emergency, a need to take sudden
action, as when a child darts into the street?
A person with even a moderate BAC might not
be able to react quickly enough to avoid the
collision.
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Control of a Vehicle
Braking
You have three systems that make your
vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the
brakes, the steering, and the accelerator. All
three systems have to do their work at the places
where the tires meet the road.
Braking action involves perception time and
reaction time.
First, you have to decide to push on the brake
pedal. That is perception time. Then you have to
bring up your foot and do it. That is reaction time.
Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or
ice, it is easy to ask more of those control systems
than the tires and road can provide. That means
you can lose control of your vehicle. See Traction
Average reaction time is about three-fourths of a
second. But that is only an average. It might be less
with one driver and as long as two or three seconds
or more with another. Age, physical condition,
alertness, coordination, and eyesight all play a part.
So do alcohol, drugs, and frustration. But even in
three-fourths of a 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.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your
vehicle’s performance. See Accessories and
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary
greatly with the surface of the road, whether it is
pavement or gravel; the condition of the road,
whether it is wet, dry, or icy; tire tread; the
condition of the brakes; the weight of the vehicle;
and the amount of brake force applied.
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Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive
in spurts — heavy acceleration followed by
heavy braking — rather than keeping pace with
traffic. This is a mistake. The brakes may not have
time to cool between hard stops. The brakes
will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy
braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and
allow realistic following distances, you will
eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means
better braking and longer brake life.
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
Your vehicle may have the Anti-Lock Brake
System (ABS), an advanced electronic braking
system that will help prevent a braking skid.
If your vehicle has ABS,
this warning light on the
instrument panel cluster
will come on briefly when
you start your vehicle.
If your vehicle’s engine ever stops while you are
driving, brake normally but do not pump the
brakes. If you do, the pedal may get harder to
push down. If the engine stops, you will still have
some power brake assist. But you will use it
when you brake. Once the power assist is used
up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal
will be harder to push.
When you start your engine, or when you begin to
drive away, ABS will check itself. You may hear a
momentary motor or clicking noise while this test is
going on, and you may even notice that your brake
pedal moves or pulses a little. This is normal.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your
vehicle’s performance. See Accessories and
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ABS can change the brake pressure faster than
any driver could. The computer is programmed
to make the most of available tire and road
conditions. This can help you steer around the
obstacle while braking hard.
Let us say the road is wet and you are driving
safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of
you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking.
Here is what happens with ABS:
A computer senses that wheels are slowing down.
If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the
computer will separately work the brakes at each
front wheel and at both rear wheels.
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving
updates on wheel speed and controls braking
pressure accordingly.
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Remember: ABS does not change the time you
need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or
always decrease stopping distance. If you get too
close to the vehicle in front of you, you will not have
time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly
slows or stops. Always leave enough room up
ahead to stop, even though you have ABS.
Momentum will carry it in whatever direction it was
headed when the wheels stopped rolling. That
could be off the road, into the very thing you were
trying to avoid, or into traffic.
If you do not have ABS, use a “squeeze” braking
technique. This will give you maximum braking
while maintaining steering control. You can do this
by pushing on the brake pedal with steadily
increasing pressure.
Using ABS
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal
down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may
feel a slight brake pedal pulsation or notice some
noise, but this is normal.
In an emergency, you will probably want to squeeze
the 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 ABS, it is different. See Anti-Lock
Braking in Emergencies
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 ABS, you can steer and brake at the
same time. However, if you do not have ABS, your
first reaction — to hit the brake pedal hard and hold
it down — may be the wrong thing to do. Your
wheels can stop rolling. Once they do, the vehicle
cannot respond to your steering.
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The traction control system operates in all transaxle
shift lever positions. But the system can upshift the
transaxle only as high as the shift lever position
you’ve chosen, so you should use the lower gears
only when necessary. See Automatic Transaxle
Traction Control System (TCS)
Your vehicle may have a traction control system
that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in
slippery road conditions. The system operates only
if it senses that one or both of the front wheels are
spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this
happens, the system reduces engine power and
may also upshift the transaxle and apply the front
brakes to limit wheel spin.
When the system is on,
this warning light will
come on and stay on to
let you know if there’s
a problem.
This light will flash
when your traction
control system is limiting
wheel spin.
A SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL message will
also appear on the DIC. When this warning
light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin.
Adjust your driving accordingly. See DIC Warnings
You may feel or hear the system working, but this
is normal.
To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road
conditions, you should always leave the traction
control system on. But you can turn the system off
if you ever need to. You should turn the system
off if your vehicle ever gets stuck in sand, mud or
snow and rocking the vehicle is required.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the
traction control system begins to limit wheel spin,
the cruise control will automatically disengage.
When road conditions allow you to safely
use it again, you may re-engage the cruise
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information.
Steering
Power Steering
If you lose power steering assist because the
engine stops or the system is not functioning,
you can steer but it will take much more effort.
To turn the system on
or off, press the traction
control button located
on the left side of
Steering Tips
the instrument panel.
It is important to take curves at a reasonable
speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents
mentioned on the news happen on curves.
When you turn the system off, a chime will sound,
the traction control warning light will come on
and stay on and a TRACTION CONTROL OFF
message will appear on the DIC. If the traction
control system is limiting wheel spin when
you press the button to turn the system off, the
warning light will come on and the system will turn
off right away.
Here is why:
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is
subject to the same laws of physics when driving on
curves. The traction of the tires against the road
surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change
its path when you turn the front wheels. If there is
no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the
same direction. If you have ever tried to steer a
vehicle on wet ice, you will understand this.
You can turn the system back on at any time by
pressing the button again. The traction control light
should go off.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your
vehicle’s performance. See Accessories and
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The traction you can get in a curve depends on
the condition of your tires and the road surface,
the angle at which the curve is banked, and
your speed. While you are in a curve, speed is
the one factor you can control.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you
should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted
speeds are based on good weather and road
conditions. Under less favorable conditions you will
want to go slower.
Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve.
Then you suddenly apply the brakes. Both
control systems — steering and braking — have
to do their work where the tires meet the road.
Unless you have four-wheel anti-lock brakes,
adding the hard braking can demand too much of
those places. You can lose control.
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach
a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while
your front wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive”
through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady
speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of
the curve, and then accelerate gently into
the straightaway.
The same thing can happen if you are steering
through a sharp curve and you suddenly
accelerate. Those two control systems — steering
and acceleration — can overwhelm those
places where the tires meet the road and make
you lose control.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your
vehicle’s performance. See Accessories and
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease
up on the brake or accelerator pedal, steer
the vehicle the way you want it to go, and
slow down.
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Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering can be more
effective than braking. For example, you come over
a hill and 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.
An emergency like this requires close attention
and a quick decision. If you are holding the
steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock
positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very
quickly without removing either hand. But you
have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly
straighten the wheel once you have avoided
the object.
much speed as you can from a possible collision.
Then steer around the problem, to the left or
right depending on the space available.
The fact that such emergency situations are always
possible is a good reason to practice defensive
driving at all times and wear safety belts properly.
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You can turn the steering wheel up to one-quarter
turn until the right front tire contacts the pavement
edge. Then turn your steering wheel to go
straight down the roadway.
Off-Road Recovery
You may find that your right wheels have dropped
off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while
you are driving.
Passing
The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a
two-lane highway waits for just the right moment,
accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then
goes back into the right lane again. A simple
maneuver?
Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a
two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move,
since the passing vehicle occupies the same
lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds.
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.
If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below
the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy.
Ease off the accelerator and then, if there
is nothing in the way, steer so that your
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.
vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.
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• Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings,
and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that
might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay
your pass. A broken center line usually
• If other vehicles are lined up to pass a slow
vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that
someone is not trying to pass you as you pull
out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to
glance over your shoulder and check the
blind spot.
indicates it is all right to pass, providing the
road ahead is clear. Never cross a solid line on
your side of the lane or a double solid line, even
if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.
• Check your vehicle’s mirrors, glance over your
shoulder, and start your left lane change signal
before moving out of the right lane to pass.
When you are far enough ahead of the passed
vehicle to see its front in your vehicle’s inside
mirror, activate the right lane change signal and
move back into the right lane. Remember that
your vehicle’s passenger side outside mirror is
convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem
to be farther away from you than it really is.
• Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to
pass while you are awaiting an opportunity. For
one thing, following too closely reduces your
area of vision, especially if you are following a
larger vehicle. Also, you will not have adequate
space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or
stops. Keep back a reasonable distance.
• When it looks like a chance to pass is coming
up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane
and do not get too close. Time your move so
you will be increasing speed as the time comes
to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to
pass, you will have a running start that more
than makes up for the distance you would lose
by dropping back. And if something happens to
cause you to cancel your pass, you need only
slow down and drop back again and wait for
another opportunity.
• Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time
on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing
the next vehicle.
• Do not overtake a slowly moving vehicle too
rapidly. Even though the brake lamps are not
flashing, it may be slowing down or starting
to turn.
• If you are being passed, make it easy for the
following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps
you can ease a little to the right.
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A cornering skid and an acceleration skid are
best handled by easing your foot off the
accelerator pedal.
Loss of Control
Let us review what driving experts say about what
happens when the three control systems — brakes,
steering, and acceleration — do not have enough
friction where the tires meet the road to do what the
driver has asked.
If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off
the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the
way you want the vehicle to go. If you start
steering quickly enough, your vehicle may
straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid
if it occurs.
In any emergency, do not give up. Keep trying to
steer and constantly seek an escape route or
area of less danger.
Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow,
ice, gravel, or other material is on the road.
For safety, you will want to slow down and adjust
your driving to these conditions. It is important
to slow down on slippery surfaces because
stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control
more limited.
Skidding
In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking
reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and
by not overdriving those conditions. But skids
are always possible.
While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try
your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration,
or braking, including reducing vehicle speed by
shifting to a lower gear. Any sudden changes could
cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the
surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding.
Learn to recognize warning clues — such as
enough water, ice, or packed snow on the road to
make a mirrored surface — and slow down when
you have any doubt.
The three types of skids correspond to your
vehicle’s three control systems. In the braking skid,
your wheels are not rolling. In the steering or
cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a
curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force.
And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle
causes the driving wheels to spin.
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If you have the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS),
remember: It helps avoid only the braking skid. If
you do not have ABS, then in a braking skid,
where the wheels are no longer rolling, release
enough pressure on the brakes to get the wheels
rolling again. This restores steering control.
Push the brake pedal down steadily when you
have to stop suddenly. As long as the 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.
No one can see as well at night as in the daytime.
But as we get older these differences increase.
A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as
much light to see the same thing at night as a
20-year-old.
Driving at Night
Night driving is more dangerous than day driving.
One reason is that some drivers are likely to
be impaired — by alcohol or drugs, with night
vision problems, or by fatigue.
What you do in the daytime can also affect your
night vision. For example, if you spend the
day in bright sunshine you are wise to wear
sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble
adjusting to night. But if you are driving, do not
wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on
glare from headlamps, but they also make a
lot of things invisible.
Here are some tips on night driving.
• Drive defensively.
• Do not drink and drive.
• Adjust the inside rearview mirror to reduce the
glare from headlamps behind you.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching
headlamps. It can take a second or two, or
even several seconds, for your eyes to re-adjust
to the dark.
• Since you cannot see as well, you may need
to slow down and keep more space between
you and other vehicles.
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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.
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
Keep the windshield and all the glass on your
vehicle clean — inside and out. Glare at night is
made much worse by dirt on the glass. Even
the inside of the glass can build up a film caused
by dust. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and
flash more than clean glass would, making the
pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly.
Remember that the headlamps light up far less of a
roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your
eyes moving; that way, it is easier to pick out dimly
lighted objects. Just as the headlamps should be
checked regularly for proper aim, so should your
eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer
from night blindness — the inability to see in dim
light — and are not even aware of it.
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a
wet road, you cannot stop, accelerate, or turn as
well because your tire-to-road traction is not as
good as on dry roads. And, if your tires do not have
much tread left, you will get even less traction. It is
always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain
starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may
get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for
driving on dry pavement.
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The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see.
Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good
shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see
road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings,
the edge of the road, and even people walking.
Driving too fast through large water puddles or
even going through some car washes can cause
problems, too. The water may affect your brakes.
Try to avoid puddles. But if you cannot, try to slow
down before you hit them.
It is wise to keep your windshield wiping equipment
in good shape and keep your windshield washer
fluid reservoir filled with washer fluid. Replace your
windshield wiper inserts when they show signs
of streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or
when strips of rubber start to separate from the
inserts.
Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can
build up under your tires that they can actually ride
on the water. This can happen if the road is wet
enough and you are going fast enough. When your
vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact
with the road.
Hydroplaning does not happen often. But it can
if your tires do not have much tread or if the
pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if
a lot of water is standing on the road. If you
can see reflections from trees, telephone poles, or
other vehicles, and raindrops dimple the water’s
surface, there could be hydroplaning.
{CAUTION:
Wet brakes can cause accidents. They
may not work as well in a quick stop and
may cause pulling to one side. You could
lose control of the vehicle.
Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds.
There just is not a hard and fast rule about
hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down
when it is raining.
After driving through a large puddle of
water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal
lightly until your brakes work normally.
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Driving Through Deep Standing Water
CAUTION: (Continued)
Notice: If you drive too quickly through deep
puddles or standing water, water can come in
through your engine’s air intake and badly
damage your engine. Never drive through water
that is slightly lower than the underbody of your
vehicle. If you cannot avoid deep puddles or
standing water, drive through them very slowly.
As little as six inches of flowing water
can carry away a smaller vehicle. If this
happens, you and other vehicle occupants
could drown. Do not ignore police warning
signs, and otherwise be very cautious
about trying to drive through flowing water.
Driving Through Flowing Water
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
{CAUTION:
• Besides slowing down, allow some extra
following distance. And be especially careful
when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself
more clear room ahead, and be prepared to
have your view restricted by road spray.
Flowing or rushing water creates strong
forces. If you try to drive through flowing
water, as you might at a low water
crossing, your vehicle can be carried away.
• Have good tires with proper tread depth.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Here are ways to increase your safety in city
driving:
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
• 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.
One of the biggest problems with city streets is
the amount of traffic on them. You will want
to watch out for what the other drivers are doing
and pay attention to traffic signals.
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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.
Freeway Driving
At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads
to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the
freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you
should begin to check traffic. Try to determine
where you expect to blend with the flow. Try to
merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed.
Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors, and
glance over your shoulder as often as necessary.
Try to blend smoothly with the traffic flow.
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.
Mile for mile, freeways — also called thruways,
parkways, expressways, turnpikes, or
superhighways — are the safest of all roads.
But they have their own special rules.
Before changing lanes, check your mirrors.
Then use your turn signal.
Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly
over your shoulder to make sure there is not
another vehicle in your blind spot.
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Once you are moving on the freeway, make
certain you allow a reasonable following distance.
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.
Expect to move slightly slower at night.
When you want to leave the freeway, move to the
proper lane well in advance. If you miss your
exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and
back up. Drive on to the next exit.
Here are some things you can check before a trip:
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite
sharply. The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce
your speed according to your speedometer, not
to your sense of motion. After driving for any
distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think
you are going slower than you actually are.
full? Are all windows clean inside and outside?
• Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
• Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you
checked all levels?
• Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses
clean?
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
• 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 the recommended pressure?
Make sure you are ready. Try to be well rested.
If you must start when you are not fresh — such
as after a day’s work — do not plan to make
too many miles that first part of the journey. Wear
comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily
drive in.
• Weather Forecasts: What is the weather
outlook along your route? Should you
delay your trip a short time to avoid a major
storm system?
• Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?
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Highway Hypnosis
Hill and Mountain Roads
Is there actually such a condition as highway
hypnosis? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the
wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of
awareness, or whatever.
There is something about an easy stretch of road
with the same scenery, along with the hum of the
tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the
rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make
you sleepy. Do not let it happen to you! If it does,
your vehicle can leave the road in less than a
second, and you could crash and be injured.
What can you do about highway hypnosis?
First, be aware that it can happen.
Then here are some tips:
• Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated,
with a comfortably cool interior.
• Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead
and to the sides. Check your rearview mirrors
and your instruments frequently.
Driving on steep hills or mountains is different
from driving in flat or rolling terrain.
• If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest,
service, or parking area and take a nap, get
some exercise, or both. For safety, treat
drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.
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If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you are
planning to visit there, here are some tips that
can make your trips safer and more enjoyable.
{CAUTION:
• Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check
all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires,
cooling system, and transaxle. These parts
can work hard on mountain roads.
Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with
the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes
will have to do all the work of slowing
down. They could get so hot that they
would not work well. You would then have
poor braking or even none going down a
hill. You could crash. Always have your
engine running and your vehicle in gear
when you go downhill.
{CAUTION:
If you do not shift down, your brakes
could get so hot that they would not work
well. You would then have poor braking or
even none going down a hill. You could
crash. Shift down to let your engine assist
your brakes on a steep downhill slope.
• Know how to go down hills. The most important
thing to know is this: let your engine do some of
the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when
you go down a steep or long hill.
• Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift
down to a lower gear. The lower gears help
cool your engine and transaxle, and you can
climb the hill better.
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• Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane
roads in hills or mountains. Do not swing wide
or cut across the center of the road. Drive at
speeds that let you stay in your own lane.
Winter Driving
• As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There
could be something in your lane, like a stalled
car or an accident.
• You may see highway signs on mountains that
warn of special problems. Examples are long
grades, passing or no-passing zones, a falling
rocks area, or winding roads. Be alert to these
and take appropriate action.
Here are some tips for winter driving:
• Have your vehicle in good shape for winter.
• You may want to put winter emergency
supplies in the trunk.
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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.
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Driving on Snow or Ice
Most of the time, those places where the tires
meet the road probably have good traction.
However, if there is snow or ice between the tires
and the road, you can have a very slippery
situation. You will have a lot less traction, or grip,
and will need to be very careful.
What is the worst time for this? Wet ice. Very cold
snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on.
But wet ice can be even more trouble because it
may offer the least traction of all. You can get
wet ice when it is about freezing, 32°F (0°C), and
freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving
on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there.
Whatever the condition — smooth ice, packed,
blowing, or loose snow — drive with caution.
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If your vehicle has the Traction Control System
(TCS), it will improve your ability to accelerate when
driving on a slippery road. Even though your vehicle
has a traction system you will want to slow down
and adjust your driving to the road conditions.
Under certain conditions, you may want to turn the
TCS off, such as when driving through deep snow
and loose gravel, to help maintain vehicle motion at
lower speeds. See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 256.
Remember, unless your vehicle has ABS, if you
brake so hard that the wheels stop rolling, your
vehicle will just slide. Brake so the wheels always
keep rolling and you can still steer.
• Whatever your vehicle’s braking system, allow
greater following distance on any slippery road.
• Watch for slippery spots. The road might be
fine until you hit a spot that is covered with ice.
On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may
appear in shaded areas where the sun cannot
reach, such as around clumps of trees, behind
buildings, or under bridges. Sometimes the
surface of a curve or an overpass may remain
icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you
see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before
you are on it. Try not to brake while you are
actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering
maneuvers.
If your vehicle does not have TCS, 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 vehicle does have ABS, see Anti-Lock
your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop
on a slippery road. Whether your vehicle has ABS
or not, you will want to begin stopping sooner than
you would on dry pavement. Without ABS, if you
feel your vehicle begin to slide, let up on the brakes
a little. Push the brake pedal down steadily to get
the most traction you can.
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If You Are Caught in a Blizzard
If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in
a serious situation. You should probably stay
with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you
are near help and you can hike through the
snow. Here are some things to do to summon
help and keep yourself and your passengers safe:
• Turn on the hazard flashers.
• Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police
that you have been stopped by the snow.
• Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around
you. If you do not have blankets or extra
clothing, make body insulators from
newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor
mats — anything you can wrap around yourself
or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.
You can run the engine to keep warm, but be
careful.
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Run the engine only as long as you must. This
saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go
a little faster than just idle. That is, push the
accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat
that you get and it keeps the battery charged.
You will need a well-charged battery to restart the
vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with
the headlamps. Let the heater run for a while.
{CAUTION:
Snow can trap exhaust gases under
your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO
(carbon monoxide) gas to get inside.
CO could overcome you and kill you.
You cannot see it or smell it, so you might
not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away
snow from around the base of your
vehicle, especially any that is blocking
your exhaust pipe. And check around
again from time to time to be sure snow
does not collect there.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window
almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start
the engine again and repeat this only when you
feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as
little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as
you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of
the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises
every half hour or so until help comes.
Open a window just a little on the side of
the vehicle that is away from the wind.
This will help keep CO out.
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Notice: Spinning the wheels can destroy parts
of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin
the wheels too fast while shifting the transaxle
back and forth, you can destroy the transaxle.
page 278.
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand,
Mud, Ice, or Snow
In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck,
you will need to spin the wheels, but you do not
want to spin your wheels too fast. The method
known as rocking can help you get out when
you are stuck, but you must use caution.
For information about using tire chains on your
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
{CAUTION:
First, turn the steering wheel left and right.
That will clear the area around the front wheels.
If your vehicle has traction control, you should turn
the traction control system off. See Traction
back and forth between REVERSE (R) and
a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as
possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you
shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal
when the transaxle is in gear. By slowly spinning
the wheels in the forward and reverse directions,
you will cause a rocking motion that may free
your vehicle. If that does not get your vehicle out
after a few tries, it may need to be towed out.
If your vehicle does need to be towed out,
If you let your vehicle’s tires spin at high
speed, they can explode, and you or others
could be injured. And, the transaxle or
other parts of the vehicle can overheat.
That could cause an engine compartment
fire or other damage. When you are stuck,
spin the wheels as little as possible. Do not
spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h)
as shown on the speedometer.
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Tire and Loading Information Label
Loading Your Vehicle
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 to lose control
and crash. Also, overloading can shorten
the life of your vehicle.
Label Example
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.
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The Tire and Loading Information label also lists the
tire size of the original equipment tires (C) and the
recommended cold tire inflation pressures (D). For
4. The resulting figure equals the available
amount of cargo and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX” amount equals
1400 lbs and there will be five 150 lb
passengers in your vehicle, the amount of
available cargo and luggage load capacity
is 650 lbs (1400 − 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs).
There is also important loading information on the
Certification label. It tells you the Gross Vehicle
Weight Rating (GVWR) and the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR) for the front and rear axle, see
“Certification Label” later in this section.
5. Determine the combined weight of luggage
and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That
weight may not safely exceed the available
cargo and luggage load capacity calculated
in Step 4.
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit
1. Locate the statement “The combined
weight of occupants and cargo should never
exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your
vehicle’s placard.
6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load
from your trailer will be transferred to your
vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how
this reduces the available cargo and luggage
load capacity for your vehicle.
2. Determine the combined weight of the driver
and passengers that will be riding in your
vehicle.
If your vehicle can tow a trailer, see Towing a
on towing a trailer, towing safety rules, and
trailering tips.
3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver
and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.
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Example 1
Description
Example 2
Description
Item
Total
Item
Total
Maximum Vehicle
Capacity Weight for
Example 1 =
Maximum Vehicle
Capacity Weight for
Example 2 =
A
1,000 lbs (453 kg)
A
1,000 lbs (453 kg)
Subtract
Subtract
B
C
Occupant Weight
300 lbs (136 kg)
700 lbs (317 kg)
B
C
Occupant Weight
750 lbs (340 kg)
250 lbs (113 kg)
150 lbs (68 kg) × 2 =
Available Occupant
and Cargo Weight =
150 lbs (68 kg) × 5 =
Available Cargo
Weight =
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Certification Label
Example 3
Description
Item
Total
Maximum Vehicle
Capacity Weight for
Example 3 =
A
1,000 lbs (453 kg)
A vehicle specific Certification label is found on
the rear edge of the driver’s door.
Subtract
B
C
Occupant Weight
1,000 lbs (453 kg)
0 lbs (0 kg)
200 lbs (91 kg) × 5 =
The label shows the gross weight capacity of your
vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of
the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo.
Available Cargo
Weight =
Refer to your vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information
label for specific information about your vehicle’s
maximum vehicle capacity weight and seating
positions. The combined weight of the driver,
passengers, and cargo should never exceed your
vehicle’s maximum vehicle capacity weight.
Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle or the
Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either
the front or rear axle.
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If the vehicle is going to carry a heavy load,
spread it out. See “Steps for Determining Correct
Load Limit” earlier in this section.
{CAUTION:
Things you put inside your vehicle can
strike and injure people in a sudden stop
or turn, or in a crash.
• Put things in the trunk of your vehicle.
In a trunk, put them as far forward as
you can. Try to spread the weight
evenly.
• Never stack heavier things, like
suitcases, inside the vehicle so that
some of them are above the tops of
the seats.
{CAUTION:
Do not load your vehicle any heavier than
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR),
or either the maximum front or rear Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do,
parts on your vehicle can break, and it
can change the way your vehicle handles.
These could cause you to lose control
and crash. Also, overloading can shorten
the life of your vehicle.
• Do not leave an unsecured child
restraint in your vehicle.
• When you carry something inside the
vehicle, secure it whenever you can.
• Do not leave a seat folded down
unless you need to.
Notice: Overloading your vehicle may cause
damage. Repairs would not be covered by your
warranty. Do not overload your vehicle.
If things like suitcases, tools, packages, or
anything else are put inside the vehicle, they will
go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop
or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they will
keep going.
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With the proper preparation and equipment, many
vehicles can be towed in these ways. See
“Dinghy Towing” and “Dolly Towing,” following.
Towing
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
page 434.
• What’s the towing capacity of the towing
vehicle? 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), see “Recreational Vehicle Towing”
following.
• How far will you tow? Some vehicles have
restrictions on how far and how long they
can tow.
• Do you have the proper towing equipment?
See your dealer or trailering professional
for additional advice and equipment
recommendations.
Recreational Vehicle Towing
Recreational vehicle towing means towing your
vehicle behind another vehicle – such as behind
a motorhome. The two most common types
of recreational vehicle towing are known as
“dinghy towing” (towing your vehicle with all
four wheels on the ground) and “dolly towing”
(towing your vehicle with two wheels on the
ground and two wheels up on a device known
as a “dolly”).
• Is your vehicle ready to be towed? Just as
you would prepare your vehicle for a long
trip, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle is
prepared to be towed. See Before Leaving
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Dinghy Towing
Dolly Towing
Notice: If you tow your vehicle with all
four wheels on the ground, the drivetrain
components could be damaged. The repairs
would not be covered by your warranty.
Do not tow your vehicle with all four wheels
on the ground.
Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with
all four wheels on the ground. If your vehicle
must be towed, you should use a dolly. See
“Dolly Towing” that follows for more information.
Your vehicle can be towed using a dolly. To tow
your vehicle using a dolly, follow these steps:
1. Put the front wheels on a dolly.
2. Put the vehicle in PARK (P).
3. Set the parking brake and then remove the key.
4. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead
position.
5. Release the parking brake.
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Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with
the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify
what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your
vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight
of the Trailer” that appears later in this section.
But trailering is different than just driving your
vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes
in handling, durability and fuel economy.
Towing a Trailer
{CAUTION:
If you do not use the correct equipment
and drive properly, you can lose control
when you pull a trailer. For example, if the
trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not
work well — or even at all. You and your
passengers could be seriously injured.
You may also damage your vehicle; the
resulting repairs would not be covered
by your warranty. Pull a trailer only if
you have followed all the steps in this
section. Ask your dealer for advice and
information about towing a trailer with
your vehicle.
Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment,
and it has to be used properly.
That’s the reason for this part. In it are many
time-tested, important trailering tips and safety
rules. Many of these are important for your safety
and that of your passengers. So please read
this section carefully before you pull a trailer.
Load-pulling components such as the engine,
transaxle, wheel assemblies and tires are forced
to work harder against the drag of the added
weight. The engine is required to operate
at relatively higher speeds and under greater
loads, generating extra heat. What’s more,
the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance,
increasing the pulling requirements.
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Three important considerations have to do
with weight:
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If you do, here are some important points:
• the weight of the trailer
• the weight of the trailer tongue
• and the total weight on your vehicle’s tires
• There are many different laws, including speed
limit restrictions, having to do with trailering.
Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where
you live but also where you’ll be driving. A
good source for this information can be state
or provincial police.
Weight of the Trailer
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
(454 kg). But even that can be too heavy.
• Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first
1,000 miles (1 600 km) your new vehicle is
driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could
be damaged.
It depends on how you plan to use your rig.
For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside
temperature and how much your vehicle is used
to pull a trailer are all important. And, it can
also depend on any special equipment that you
have on your vehicle.
• Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that
you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph
(80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle.
This helps your engine and other parts of
your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.
You can ask your dealer for our trailering
information or advice. Also, see Customer
information.
• Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a
trailer. Don’t drive faster than the maximum
posted speed for trailers, or no more than
55 mph (90 km/h), to save wear on your
vehicle’s parts.
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Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important
weight to measure because it affects the total
or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle
Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the
vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and
the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if
you tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load
to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying
page 279 for more information about your vehicle’s
maximum load capacity.
If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch or a
weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue (A)
should weigh 10 to 15 percent of the total
loaded trailer weight (B).
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After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer
and then the tongue, separately, to see if the
weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be
able to get them right simply by moving some
items around in the trailer.
Hitches
It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.
Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads
are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch.
Here are some rules to follow:
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires
• The rear bumper on your vehicle is not
intended for hitches. Do not attach rental
hitches or other bumper-type hitches to it.
Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does
not attach to the bumper.
Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper
limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the
Tire and Loading Information label, See Loading
go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including
the weight of the trailer tongue.
• Will you have to make any holes in the body
of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch?
If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later
when you remove the hitch. If you don’t seal
them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your
exhaust can get into your vehicle. See Engine
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Safety Chains
Trailer Brakes
You should always attach chains between
your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety
chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the
tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes
separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety
chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer
or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the
manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching
safety chains and do not attach them to the
bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you
can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety
chains to drag on the ground.
Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure
to read and follow the instructions for the
trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust
and maintain them properly.
• If your vehicle has anti-lock brakes, do not try to
tap into your vehicle’s brake system. If you do,
both brake systems won’t work well, or at all.
• Even if your vehicle doesn’t have anti-lock
brakes, don’t tap into your vehicle’s brake
system if the trailer’s brake system will use
more than 0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from
your vehicle’s master cylinder. If it does, both
braking systems won’t work well. You could
even lose your brakes.
• Will the trailer brake parts take 3,000 psi
(20 650 kPa) of pressure? If not, the trailer
brake system must not be used with your
vehicle.
• If everything checks out this far, then make
the brake fluid tap at the upper rear master
cylinder port. But don’t use copper tubing
for this. If you do, it will bend and break off.
Use steel brake tubing.
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Driving with a Trailer
Following Distance
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of
experience. Before setting out for the open road,
you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself
with the feel of handling and braking with the added
weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that
the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal
longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle
is by itself.
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead
as you would when driving your vehicle without
a trailer. This can help you avoid situations
that require heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when
you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a
good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther
beyond the passed vehicle before you can
return to your lane.
Before you start, check the trailer hitch and
platform (and attachments), safety chains,
electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror
adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start
your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply
the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the
brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with
one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just
move that hand to the left. To move the trailer
to the right, move your hand to the right. Always
back up slowly and, if possible, have someone
guide you.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure
that the load is secure, and that the lamps and
any trailer brakes are still working.
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Making Turns
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need
additional wiring. Check with your dealer. The
arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever
you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked
up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other
drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop.
Notice: Making very sharp turns while
trailering could cause the trailer to come in
contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could
be damaged. Avoid making very sharp
turns while trailering.
When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider
turns than normal. Do this so your trailer
won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs,
trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden
maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
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’s important to check
occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still
working.
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Driving On Grades
Parking on Hills
Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before
you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you
don’t shift down, you might have to use your
brakes so much that they would get hot and no
longer work well.
{CAUTION:
You really should not park your vehicle,
with a trailer attached, on a hill. If
something goes wrong, your rig could
start to move. People can be injured, and
both your vehicle and the trailer can be
damaged.
On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce
your speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce
the possibility of engine and transaxle overheating.
Notice: When the outside temperature is
above 100° F (38° C) and/or there is a steep,
continuous grade, the recommended speed
when towing is 55 mph (88 km/h) or less.
Extended higher than normal engine and
transaxle temperatures may damage your
vehicle.
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill,
here’s how to do it:
1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into
PARK (P) yet.
If you have overdrive, you may want to drive in
THIRD (3) instead of DRIVE (D).
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer
wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release
the regular brakes until the chocks absorb
the load.
4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your
parking brake, and then shift to PARK (P).
5. Release the regular brakes.
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When You Are Ready to Leave After
Parking on a Hill
1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the
pedal down while you:
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
Your vehicle will need service more often when
you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance
Schedule for more on this. Things that are
especially important in trailer operation are
automatic transaxle fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil,
drive belts, cooling system and brake system.
Each of these is covered in this manual, and the
Index will help you find them quickly. If you’re
trailering, it’s a good idea to review this information
before you start your trip.
• start your engine,
• shift into a gear, and
• release the parking brake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of
the chocks.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and
bolts are tight.
4. Stop and have someone pick up and store
the chocks.
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
Your cooling system may temporarily overheat
during severe operating conditions. See Engine
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Section 5
Service and Appearance Care
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Accessories and Modifications
Service
When you add non-GM accessories to your vehicle
they can affect your vehicle’s performance and
safety, including such things as, airbags, braking,
stability, ride and handling, emissions systems,
aerodynamics, durability, and electronic systems
like anti-lock brakes, traction control and
stability control. Some of these accessories may
even cause malfunction or damage not covered by
warranty.
Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants
you to be happy with it. We hope you will go
to your dealer for all your service needs. You will
get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and
supported service people.
We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all
GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:
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.
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California Proposition 65 Warning
CAUTION: (Continued)
Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain
and/or emit chemicals known to the State of
California to cause cancer and birth defects or other
reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and
systems (including some inside the vehicle), many
fluids, and some component wear by-products
contain and/or emit these chemicals.
• Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts,
and other fasteners. English and
metric fasteners can be easily
confused. If you use the wrong
fasteners, parts can later break or fall
off. You could be hurt.
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, see Service Publications
{CAUTION:
You can be injured and your vehicle could
be damaged if you try to do service work
on a vehicle without knowing enough
about it.
• Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,
experience, the proper replacement
parts, and tools before you attempt any
vehicle maintenance task.
Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before
attempting to do your own service work, see
page 84.
You should keep a record with all parts receipts
and list the mileage and the date of any service
work you perform. See Maintenance Record
on page 423.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Adding Equipment to the Outside
of Your Vehicle
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
Gasoline Octane
For all vehicles except those with the 5.3L
V8 engine (VIN Code C), use regular unleaded
gasoline with a posted octane rating of 87 or
higher. If the octane rating is less than 87, you
may notice an audible knocking noise when
you drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. If
this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane
or higher as soon as possible. If you are using
gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear
heavy knocking, your engine needs service.
performance. Check with your dealer before adding
equipment to the outside of your vehicle.
Fuel
Use of the recommended fuel is an important part
of the proper maintenance of your vehicle. To help
keep your engine clean and maintain optimum
vehicle performance, GM recommends the use of
gasoline advertised as TOP TIER Detergent
Gasoline.
If your vehicle has the 5.3L V8 engine (VIN Code
C), 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 your vehicle’s acceleration
may be slightly reduced, and you may notice a
slight audible knocking noise, commonly referred
to as spark knock. If the octane is less than
87, you may notice a heavy knocking noise when
you drive. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated
at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible.
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.
The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) shows the code letter or number that
identifies your engine. You will find the VIN at the
top left of the instrument panel. See Vehicle
If your vehicle has the 3.5L V6 engine (VIN Code K
only), you may use either regular unleaded gasoline
or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85);
all other engines, use only regular unleaded
gasoline.
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Gasoline Specifications
Additives
At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM
specification D 4814 in the United States or
CAN/CGSB-3.5 in Canada. Some gasolines may
contain an octane-enhancing additive called
methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl
(MMT). General Motors recommends against the
page 300 for additional information.
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United
States are now required to contain additives
that will help prevent engine and fuel system
deposits from forming, allowing your emission
control system to work properly. In most cases,
you should not have to add anything to your fuel.
However, some gasolines contain only the
minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency regulations.
To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean,
or if your vehicle experiences problems due to
dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is
advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Also,
your GM dealer has additives that will help
California Fuel
If your vehicle is certified to meet California
Emissions Standards, it is designed to operate on
fuels that meet California specifications. See the
underhood emission control label. If this fuel is not
available in states adopting California emissions
standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on
fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission
control system performance may be affected. The
malfunction indicator lamp may turn on and your
vehicle may fail a smog-check test. See Malfunction
your authorized GM dealer for diagnosis. If it is
determined that the condition is caused by the type
of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your
warranty.
correct and prevent most 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.
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Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for
fuel that contains methanol. Do not use
fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal
parts in your fuel system and also damage
the plastic and rubber parts. That damage
would not be covered under your warranty.
If your vehicle has the 3.5L V6 engine (VIN Code K
only), you may use either regular unleaded gasoline
or ethanol fuel containing up to 85% ethanol (E85);
including the 3.5L V6 (VIN Code N), use only
regular unleaded gasoline.
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low
emissions may contain an octane-enhancing
additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese
tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant where you
buy gasoline whether the fuel contains MMT.
General Motors 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.
Only vehicles that have the 3.5L V6 engine (VIN
Code K) may use 85% ethanol fuel (E85). General
Motors encourages the use of E85 in vehicles
that are designed to use it. The ethanol in E85 is
a “renewable” fuel, meaning it is made from
renewable sources such as corn and other crops.
Many service stations will not have an 85% ethanol
fuel (E85) pump available. The U. S. Department
of Energy has an alternative fuels website
(www.eere.energy.gov/afdc/infrastructure/
locator.html) that can help you find E85 fuel. Those
stations that do have E85 should have a label
indicating ethanol content. Do not use the fuel if the
ethanol content is greater than 85%.
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)
At a minimum, E85 should meet ASTM
Specification D 5798.
The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number
(VIN) shows the code letter or number that
identifies your engine. You will find the VIN at the
top left of the instrument panel. See Vehicle
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To ensure quick starts in the wintertime, the
Notice: Some additives are not compatible
with E85 fuel and may harm your fuel system.
Damage caused by additives would not be
covered by your new vehicle warranty. Do not
use additives with E85 fuel.
E85 fuel must be formulated properly for your
climate according to ASTM specification D 5798.
If you have trouble starting on E85, it may be
because your E85 fuel is not properly formulated for
your climate. If this happens, switching to gasoline
or adding gasoline to your fuel tank may improve
starting. For good starting and heater efficiency
below 32°F (0°C), the fuel mix in the fuel tank
should contain no more than 70% ethanol. It is best
not to alternate repeatedly between gasoline and
E85. If you do switch fuels, it is recommended that
you add as much fuel as possible — do not add
less than five gallons (18.9 L) when refueling. You
should drive the vehicle immediately after refueling
for at least seven miles (11 km) to allow the vehicle
to adapt to the change in ethanol concentration.
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for
fuel that contains methanol. Do not use
fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal
parts in your fuel system and also damage
the plastic and rubber parts. That damage
would not be covered under your warranty.
Fuels in Foreign Countries
If you plan on driving in another country outside
the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may
be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or
any other fuel not recommended in the previous
text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of
improper fuel would not be covered by your
warranty.
E85 has less energy per gallon than gasoline, so
you will need to refill your fuel tank more often
when using E85 than when you are using gasoline.
To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or
contact a major oil company that does business
in the country where you will be driving.
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Filling the Tank
{CAUTION:
Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel fire
can cause bad injuries. To help avoid
injuries to you and others, read and follow
all the instructions on the pump island.
Turn off your engine when you are
refueling. Do not smoke if you are near
fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep
sparks, flames, and smoking materials
away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel
pump unattended when refueling your
vehicle. This is against the law in some
places. Keep children away from the fuel
pump; never let children pump fuel.
The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged
fuel door on the driver’s side of the vehicle. If
the vehicle has E85 fuel capability, a yellow cap
with the words “E85/gasoline” can be seen.
To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly
counterclockwise. 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 on the
hook on the inside of the fuel door.
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When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until
it clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed.
The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel
cap has been left off or improperly installed.
This would allow fuel to evaporate into the
page 183.
{CAUTION:
If you spill fuel and then something
ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel
can spray out on you if you open the fuel
cap too quickly. This spray can happen if
your tank is nearly full, and is more likely
in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly
and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then
unscrew the cap all the way.
The TIGHTEN GAS CAP message will be
displayed on the Driver Information Center (DIC) if
the fuel cap is not properly installed. See DIC
information.
Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overfill
the tank and wait a few seconds after you have
finished pumping before removing the nozzle.
Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon
page 394.
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Filling a Portable Fuel Container
{CAUTION:
{CAUTION:
If a fire starts while you are refueling, do
not remove the nozzle. Shut off the flow of
fuel by shutting off the pump or by
notifying the station attendant. Leave the
area immediately.
Never fill a portable fuel container while it
is in your vehicle. Static electricity
discharge from the container can ignite the
gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned
and your vehicle damaged if this occurs.
To help avoid injury to you and others:
• Dispense gasoline only into approved
containers.
• Do not fill a container while it is inside a
vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup
bed, or on any surface other than the
ground.
Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to
get the right type. Your dealer can get one
for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not
fit properly. This may cause your malfunction
indicator lamp to light and may damage
your fuel tank and emissions system. See
• Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the
inside of the fill opening before
operating the nozzle. Contact should
be maintained until the filling is
complete.
• Do not smoke while pumping gasoline.
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Checking Things Under
the Hood
{CAUTION:
Things that burn can get on hot engine
parts and start a fire. These include
liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid,
windshield washer and other fluids, and
plastic or rubber. You or others could be
burned. Be careful not to drop or spill
things that will burn onto a hot engine.
{CAUTION:
An electric fan under the hood can start
up and injure you even when the engine
is not running. Keep hands, clothing,
and tools away from any underhood
electric fan.
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Hood Release
To open the hood, do the following:
1. Pull the interior hood
release handle with
this symbol on it.
It is located to
the left of the
parking brake
pedal.
2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and
release the secondary hood latch, located
near the center of the hood front, by pushing
the latch to the right.
3. Lift the hood.
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps
are on properly. Then pull the hood down and
close it firmly.
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A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See
“Adding Washer Fluid” under Windshield
H. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine
I. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil”
J. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick (Out of
View). See “Checking the Fluid Level” under
K. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake
E. Coolant Recovery Tank. See “Checking
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When you open the hood on the 5.3L V8 engine, here is what you will see:
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A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See
“Adding Washer Fluid” under Windshield
H. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine
I. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick (Out of
View). See “Checking the Fluid Level” under
J. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake
L. Coolant Recovery Tank. See “Checking
G. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil”
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The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop.
for the location of the engine oil dipstick.
Engine Oil
If the ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL message
appears in the Driver Information Center (DIC), it
means you need to check the engine oil level
right away. For more information, see DIC
check the engine oil level regularly; this is an
added reminder.
1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several
minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you
do not do this, the oil dipstick might not
show the actual level.
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper
towel or cloth, then push it back in all the
way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down,
and check the level.
Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil every time
you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
on level ground.
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Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine
has so much oil that the oil level gets above
the cross-hatched area that shows the
proper operating range, the engine could be
damaged.
When to Add Engine Oil
See Engine
on page 308 for the
location of the engine oil
fill cap.
V6 Engine
Be sure to add enough oil to put the level
somewhere in the proper operating range in the
cross-hatched area. Push the dipstick all the
way back in when you are through.
V8 Engine
If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip
of the dipstick, you will need to add at least one
quart/liter of oil. But you must use the right
kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use.
For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities
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Look for two things:
• GM6094M
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
Your vehicle’s engine requires oil meeting
GM Standard GM6094M. You should
look for and use only an oil that meets
GM Standard GM6094M.
• SAE 5W-30
As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is
best for your vehicle.
These numbers on an oil container show its
viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other
viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50.
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Oils meeting these
requirements should
also have the starburst
symbol on the
container. This symbol
indicates that the oil
has been certified by the
American Petroleum
Institute (API).
Notice: Use only engine oil identified as
meeting GM Standard GM6094M and showing
the American Petroleum Institute Certified
For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure
to use the recommended oil can result in
engine damage not covered by your warranty.
GM Goodwrench® oil meets all the requirements
for your vehicle.
If you are in an area of extreme cold, where
the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C),
it is recommended that you use either an
SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil.
Both will provide easier cold starting and better
protection for the engine at extremely low
temperatures.
You should look for this information on the oil
container, and use only those oils that are
identified as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and
have the starburst symbol on the front of the oil
container.
Engine Oil Additives
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended
oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM
Standard GM6094M are all you will need for good
performance and engine protection.
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Change your oil as soon as possible within the
next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you
are driving under the best conditions, the oil life
system may not indicate that an oil change is
necessary for over a year. However, your engine
oil and filter must be changed at least once a
year and at this time the system must be reset.
Your dealer has GM-trained service people
who will perform this work using genuine GM
parts and reset the system. It is also important
to check your oil regularly and keep it at the
proper level.
Engine Oil Life System
When to Change Engine Oil
Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you
know when to change the engine oil and filter.
This is based on engine revolutions and engine
temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving
conditions, the mileage at which an oil change
will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil
life system to work properly, you must reset the
system every time the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated that oil life has
been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change
is necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
message will come on. See DIC Warnings
If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must
change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since
your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life
system whenever the oil is changed.
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How to Reset the Engine Oil Life
System
What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain elements that
may be unhealthy for your skin and could
even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on
your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails
with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner.
Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags
containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s
warnings about the use and disposal of oil
products.
The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to
change your engine oil and filter based on vehicle
use. Anytime your oil is changed, reset the
system so it can calculate when the next oil
change is required. If a situation occurs where you
change your oil prior to a CHANGE ENGINE
OIL SOON message being turned on, reset the
system.
Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you
change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from
the filter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by
putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into
sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead,
recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used
oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of
used oil, ask your dealer, a service station, or a
local recycling center for help.
Always reset the engine oil life to 100% after
every oil change. It will not reset itself. To reset
the Engine Oil Life System, do the following:
1. Display the OIL LIFE REMAINING on the DIC.
2. Press and hold the SET/RESET button on
the DIC for more than five seconds. The oil
life will change to 100%.
If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message
comes back on when you start your vehicle, the
Engine Oil Life System has not reset. Repeat
the procedure.
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To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter
do the following:
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/filter is located in the
engine compartment on the driver’s side of the
vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 308 for more information on location.
When to Inspect the Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the Maintenance II
intervals and replace it at the first oil change
after each 50,000 mile (83 000 km) interval. See
information. If you are driving in dusty/dirty
conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil
change.
1. Lift the filter cover tabs on top of the engine
air cleaner/filter housing.
How to Inspect the Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter
2. Push the filter cover housing toward the engine.
3. Pull out the 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.
4. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.
5. To reinstall the cover, position the tabs
through the hinges on the housing.
6. Push the cover tabs on top of the housing to
lock the cover in place.
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Automatic Transaxle Fluid
{CAUTION:
When to Check and Change Automatic
Transaxle Fluid
Operating the engine with the air
cleaner/filter off can cause you or others
to be burned. The air cleaner not only
cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if
the engine backfires. If it is not there
and the engine backfires, you could be
burned. Do not drive with it off, and be
careful working on the engine with the
air cleaner/filter off.
A good time to check your automatic transaxle
fluid level is when the engine oil is changed.
Change the fluid and filter at the intervals listed
and be sure to use the transaxle fluid listed
on page 420.
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire
can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can
easily get into your engine, which will damage
it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place
when you are driving.
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To get the right reading, the fluid should be
at normal operating temperature, which is
180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C).
How to Check Automatic
Transaxle Fluid
Because this operation can be a little difficult, you
may choose to have this done at the dealership
service department.
Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about
15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are
above 50°F (10°C). If it is colder than 50°F (10°C),
you may have to drive longer.
If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the
instructions here, or you could get a false reading
on the dipstick.
Checking the Fluid Level
Prepare your vehicle as follows:
Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage
the transaxle. Too much can mean that some of
the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine
or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Too
little fluid could cause the transaxle to overheat.
Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check
the transaxle fluid.
1. Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the
engine running.
2. With the parking brake applied, place the
shift lever in PARK (P).
3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the
shift lever through each gear range, pausing
for about three seconds in each range.
Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the
transaxle fluid level if you have been driving:
Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P).
• When outside temperatures are above
90°F (32°C).
4. Let the engine run at idle for three to
five minutes.
• At high speed for quite a while.
• In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather.
• While pulling a trailer.
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Then, without shutting off the engine, follow
these steps:
1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean
rag or paper towel.
The transaxle fluid
dipstick handle is the
black loop with this
symbol on it. It is located
near the rear of the
engine compartment.
V6 Engines
5.3L V8 Engine
3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the
lower level. The fluid level must be in the
cross-hatched area.
page 308 for more information on location.
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds
and then pull it back out again.
4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range,
push the dipstick back in all the way.
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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 automatic transaxle
fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and
How to Add Fluid
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine
what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See
If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the
proper fluid to bring the level into the
cross-hatched area on the dipstick.
3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as
described under “How to Check Automatic
Transaxle Fluid,” earlier in this section.
1. Pull out the dipstick.
2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at
the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level.
4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push
the dipstick back in all the way.
It does not take much fluid, generally less
than one pint (0.5 L). Do not overfill.
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• Protect against rust and corrosion.
• Help keep the proper engine temperature.
• Let the warning lights and gages work as they
should.
Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL®
may cause premature engine, heater core,
or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine
coolant may require changing sooner, at
the first maintenance service after each
30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months,
whichever occurs first. Any repairs would not
be covered by your warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your
vehicle.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with
DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is
designed to remain in your vehicle for five years or
150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs
first, if you add only DEX-COOL® extended
life coolant.
The following explains your cooling system and
how to add coolant when it is low. If you have
a problem with engine overheating or if you need
to add coolant to the radiator, see Engine
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL® coolant will:
• Give freezing protection down to −34°F (−37°C).
• Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
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Notice: If you use an improper coolant
mixture, your engine could overheat and be
badly damaged. The repair cost would not be
covered by your warranty. Too much water
in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine,
radiator, heater core, and other parts.
What to Use
Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water
and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which will
not damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant
mixture, you do not need to add anything else.
If coolant needs to be added more than four times
a year, have your dealer check the cooling
system.
{CAUTION:
Notice: If you use extra inhibitors and/or
additives in your vehicle’s cooling system,
you could damage your vehicle. Use only
the proper mixture of the engine coolant
listed in this manual for the cooling system.
on page 420 for more information.
Adding only plain water to your cooling
system can be dangerous. Plain water, or
some other liquid such as alcohol, can
boil before the proper coolant mixture will.
Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is
set for the proper coolant mixture. With
plain water or the wrong mixture, your
engine could get too hot but you would
not get the overheat warning. Your engine
could catch fire and you or others could
be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,
drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.
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Adding Coolant
Checking Coolant
If more coolant is needed, add the proper
DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the coolant
recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.
The coolant recovery
tank cap has this
symbol on it.
If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty,
add coolant to the cooling system through the
coolant fill neck on the engine. See Engine
{CAUTION:
for more information on the location of the
coolant recovery tank.
Turning the radiator pressure cap when
the engine and radiator are hot can allow
steam and scalding liquids to blow out
and burn you badly. With the coolant
recovery tank, you will almost never
have to add coolant at the radiator.
Never turn the radiator pressure
The vehicle must be on a level surface when
checking the coolant level.
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should
be at the cold fill line or a little higher. The
cold fill line is marked with the same symbol as
the coolant recovery tank cap.
cap — even a little — when the engine
and radiator are hot.
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Engine Overheating
{CAUTION:
There is a coolant temperature gage and a
warning light on the instrument panel that indicate
an overheated engine condition. See Engine
Coolant Temperature Gage on page 182
on page 181.
You can be burned if you spill coolant
on hot engine parts. Coolant contains
ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the
engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill
coolant on a hot engine.
In addition, you will find an ENGINE
OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE and an ENGINE
OVERHEATED STOP ENGINE message
displayed on the vehicle’s Driver Information
Center (DIC). See DIC Warnings and Messages
on page 197 for more information.
Occasionally check the coolant level in the
radiator. For information on how to add coolant to
Pressure Cap
Notice: If the pressure cap is not tightly
installed, coolant loss and possible engine
damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly
and tightly secured.
for more information on location.
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If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
CAUTION: (Continued)
{CAUTION:
information on driving to a safe place
in an emergency.
Steam from an overheated engine can
burn you badly, even if you just open
the hood. Stay away from the engine if
you see or hear steam coming from it.
Turn it off and get everyone away from
the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until
there is no sign of steam or coolant
before you open the hood.
Notice: If your engine catches fire because
you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle
can be badly damaged. The costly repairs
would not be covered by your warranty.
to a safe place in an emergency.
If you keep driving when the vehicles
engine is overheated, the liquids in it
can catch fire. You or others could be
badly burned. Stop your engine if it
overheats, and get out of the vehicle
until the engine is cool.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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If the overheat warning no longer exists, the
vehicle can be driven. Just to be safe, drive slower
for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not
come back on, the vehicle can be driven normally.
If No Steam Is Coming From
Your Engine
An overheat warning can indicate a serious
problem.
If the warning continues, and you have not stopped,
pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away.
If you get an engine overheat warning but see
or hear no steam, the problem may not be
too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a
little too hot when you:
If there is still no sign of steam, idle the engine
for three minutes while parked. If the warning
is still there, turn off the engine and get everyone
out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see
“Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode”
later in this section.
• Climb along hill on a hot day.
• Stop after high-speed driving.
• Idle for long periods in traffic.
• Tow a trailer.
You may decide not to lift the hood but to get
service help right away.
If an overheat warning occurs without any sign of
steam, try this for a minute or so:
1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in
NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to do
so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N) and let the engine idle.
2. Set the heater at the highest setting and the
fan at the highest speed and open the
windows as necessary.
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Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
Cooling System
When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is
what you will see:
This emergency operating mode allows your
vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an
emergency situation. If an overheated engine
condition exists, an overheat protection mode
which alternates firing groups of cylinders helps
prevent engine damage. In this mode, you
will notice a significant loss in power and engine
performance. The coolant temperature gage
will indicate an overheat condition exists. Driving
extended miles (km) and/or towing a trailer in
the overheat protection mode should be avoided.
Notice: After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, to avoid engine
damage, allow the engine to cool before
attempting any repair. The engine oil will be
severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant
loss, change the oil and reset the oil life system.
3.5L V6 Engine shown, 3.9L Engine similar
A. Coolant Recovery Tank
B. Pressure Cap
C. Electric Engine Cooling Fans
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{CAUTION:
An electric engine cooling fan under the
hood can start up even when the engine
is not running and can injure you. Keep
hands, clothing, and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.
If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is
boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down.
The vehicle should be parked on a level surface.
5.3L V8 Engine
If your vehicle has one of the V6 engines, the
coolant recovery tank is located in the rear of the
engine compartment on the passenger’s side
of the vehicle. If your vehicle has the 5.3L
V8 engine, the coolant recovery tank is located in
the rear of the engine compartment on the
driver’s side of the vehicle. See Engine
A. Pressure Cap
B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans
C. Coolant Recovery Tank
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When the engine is cold, the coolant level should
be at or above the cold fill line on the coolant
recovery tank. To check the coolant level, look
for the cold fill line on the side of the coolant
recovery tank that faces the engine. If the level is
not correct, there may be a leak at the pressure
cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses,
radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the
cooling system.
If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on,
check to see if the electric engine cooling fans are
running. If the engine is overheating, the fans
should be running. If the fans are not running, your
vehicle needs service.
Notice: Engine damage from running your
engine without coolant is not covered by your
warranty. See Overheated Engine Protection
on driving to a safe place in an emergency.
Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL®
may cause premature engine, heater core,
or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine
coolant could require changing sooner, at
30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months,
whichever occurs first. Any repairs would not
be covered by your warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your
vehicle.
{CAUTION:
Heater and radiator hoses, and other
engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch
them. If you do, you can be burned.
Do not run the engine if there is a leak.
If you run the engine, it could lose all
coolant. That could cause an engine fire,
and you could be burned. Get any leak
fixed before you drive the vehicle.
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If you have not found a problem yet, but the
coolant level is not at the cold fill line, add a
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL® engine coolant at the coolant
for more information.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant
Recovery Tank
{CAUTION:
Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and
crack the engine, radiator, heater core and
other parts. Use the recommended coolant
and the proper coolant mixture.
Adding only plain water to your cooling
system can be dangerous. Plain water, or
some other liquid such as alcohol, can
boil before the proper coolant mixture will.
Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is
set for the proper coolant mixture. With
plain water or the wrong mixture, your
engine could get too hot but you would
not get the overheat warning. Your engine
could catch fire and you or others could
be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean,
drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.
{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant
on hot engine parts. Coolant contains
ethylene glycol and it will burn if the
engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill
coolant on a hot engine.
When the coolant level in the coolant recovery
tank is at the cold fill line, start the vehicle.
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If the overheat warning continues, there is one
more thing you can try. You can add the proper
coolant mixture directly to the cooling system
through the coolant fill neck on the engine, but be
sure the system is cool before you do it.
How to Add Coolant to the Cooling
System
Notice: Your engine has a specific cooling
system drain and fill procedure. Failure
to follow this procedure could cause your
engine to overheat and be severely damaged.
If your engine’s cooling system needs to
be drained and re-filled, please see your dealer.
{CAUTION:
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot
cooling system can blow out and burn
you badly. They are under pressure, and if
you turn the radiator pressure cap — even
a little — they can come out at high
1. You can remove the
pressure cap when
the cooling system,
including the
pressure cap and
upper radiator hose
is no longer hot.
Turn the pressure
cap slowly
speed. Never turn the cap when the
cooling system, including the radiator
pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling
system and radiator pressure cap to cool
if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.
counterclockwise.
If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss
means that there is still some pressure left.
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2. Then keep turning the pressure cap and
remove it.
{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on
hot engine parts. Coolant contains
ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine
parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant
on a hot engine.
3. Fill the cooling system with the proper
DEX-COOL® coolant mixture, up to the base
page 323 for more information about the
proper coolant mixture.
5. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the cold
fill line.
6. Install the coolant recovery tank cap and the
pressure cap. After a day or two of driving,
when the engine is cold, check the coolant
level in the recovery tank. If it is low, refill it
to the cold fill line.
4. Rinse or wipe any spilled coolant from the
engine and the compartment.
If the coolant in the recovery tank is constantly
low, you should have a dealership service
department inspect the vehicle for leaks.
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How to Check Power Steering Fluid
Power Steering Fluid
To check the power steering fluid, do the following:
The power steering fluid
reservoir is located
1. Turn the key off and let the engine
compartment cool down.
toward the rear of the
engine compartment on
the passenger’s side
of the vehicle. See
Overview on page 308
for reservoir location.
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean.
3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a
clean rag.
4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
5. Remove the cap again and look at the
fluid level on the dipstick.
The fluid level should be somewhere within the
cross-hatched area on the dipstick. If the fluid is
at the ADD mark, you should add fluid.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power
steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak
in the system or you hear an unusual noise.
A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem.
Have the system inspected and repaired.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the
proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses
and seals.
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for more information on location.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
Notice:
When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure
to read the manufacturer’s instructions before
use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area
where the temperature may fall below freezing,
use a fluid that has sufficient protection against
freezing.
• When using concentrated washer fluid,
follow the manufacturer’s instructions
for adding water.
• Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer
fluid. Water can cause the solution to
freeze and damage your washer fluid tank
and other parts of the washer system.
Also, water does not clean as well
as washer fluid.
Adding Washer Fluid
A WASHER FLUID LOW ADD FLUID message
will be displayed on the Driver Information Center
(DIC) when you need to add windshield washer
fluid to your vehicle. See DIC Warnings and
• Fill your washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very cold.
This allows for expansion if freezing
occurs, which could damage the tank if it
is completely full.
Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it.
Add washer fluid
• Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in
your windshield washer. It can damage
your washer system and paint.
until the tank is full.
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So, it is not a good idea to top off your brake fluid.
Adding brake fluid will not correct a leak. If you
add 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, only when work is done on
the brake hydraulic system.
Brakes
Brake Fluid
Your brake master
cylinder reservoir is
filled with DOT-3 brake
fluid. See Engine
on page 308 for the
location of the reservoir.
{CAUTION:
If your vehicle has 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 brake lining wear. When
new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back
up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of
the brake system. If it is, you should have your
brake system fixed, since a leak means that
sooner or later your brakes will not work well,
or will not work at all.
When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your
brake warning light will come on. See Brake
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Notice:
What to Add
• Using the wrong fluid can badly damage
brake system parts. For example, just a
few drops of mineral-based oil, such
as engine oil, in the brake system can
damage brake system parts so badly that
they will have to be replaced. Do not
let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid.
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3
brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed
container only. See Recommended Fluids
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the
area around the cap before removing it. This
will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
• If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s
painted surfaces, the paint finish can
be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake
fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it
off immediately. See Washing Your Vehicle
on page 394.
{CAUTION:
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake
system, the brakes may not work well, or
they may not even work at all. This could
cause a crash. Always use the proper
brake fluid.
Brake Wear
Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes.
Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that
make a high-pitched warning sound when the
brake pads are worn and new pads are needed.
The sound may come and go or be heard all
the time your vehicle is moving, except when you
are pushing on the brake pedal firmly.
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Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return
to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in
pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.
{CAUTION:
The brake wear warning sound means that
soon the brakes will not work well. That
could lead to an accident. When you hear
the brake wear warning sound, have your
vehicle serviced.
Brake Adjustment
Every time you apply the brakes, with or without
the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.
Replacing Brake System Parts
The braking system on a vehicle is complex.
Its many parts have to be of top quality and work
well together if the vehicle is to have really good
braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested
with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace
parts of your braking system — for example, when
your brake linings wear down and you need new
ones put in — be sure you get new approved
GM replacement parts. If you do not, your brakes
may no longer work properly. For example, if
someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for
your vehicle, the balance between your front and
rear brakes can change — for the worse. The
braking performance you have come to expect
can change in many other ways if someone puts
in the wrong replacement brake parts.
Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out
brake pads could result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates may cause
a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or
lightly applied. This does not mean something is
wrong with your brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help
prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated,
inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten
wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque
specifications.
Brake linings should always be replaced as
complete axle sets.
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Vehicle Storage
Battery
If you are not going to drive your vehicle for
25 days or more, remove the black, negative (−)
cable from the battery. This will help keep
your battery from running down.
Your vehicle has a maintenance free battery.
When it is time for a new battery, get one that has
the replacement number shown on the original
battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelco®
replacement battery. See Engine Compartment
{CAUTION:
Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related
accessories contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the State of California
to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash
hands after handling.
Batteries have acid that can burn you and
gas that can explode. You can be badly
hurt if you are not careful. See Jump
around a battery without getting hurt.
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Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or
pulling it will not work, and it could damage
your vehicle.
Jump Starting
If your vehicle’s battery has run down, you may
want to use another vehicle and some jumper
cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use
the following steps to do it safely.
1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a
12-volt battery with a negative ground system.
Notice: If the other vehicle’s system is not
a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both
vehicles can be damaged. Only use vehicles
with 12-volt systems with negative grounds to
jump start your vehicle.
{CAUTION:
Batteries can hurt you. They can be
dangerous because:
• They contain acid that can burn you.
• They contain gas that can explode
or ignite.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper
cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are
not touching each other. If they are, it could
cause a ground connection you do not
want. You would not be able to start your
vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage
the electrical systems.
• They contain enough electricity to
burn you.
If you do not follow these steps exactly,
some or all of these things can hurt you.
To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling,
set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles
involved in the jump start procedure. Put
an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or
a manual transaxle in NEUTRAL before
setting the parking brake.
Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in
costly damage to your vehicle that would
not be covered by your warranty.
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Notice: If you leave your radio or other
accessories on during the jump starting
procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs
would not be covered by your warranty.
Always turn off your radio and other
To uncover the remote
positive (+) terminal,
remove the fuse
block cover. You should
always use the
remote positive (+)
terminal instead of the
positive (+) terminal
on the battery.
accessories when jump starting your vehicle.
3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles.
Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into
the cigarette lighter or the accessory power
outlets. Turn off the radio and all lamps
that are not needed. This will avoid sparks
and help save both batteries. And it could
save the radio!
{CAUTION:
4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries.
Find the positive (+) and negative (−)
terminal locations on each vehicle.
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.
You will not need to access your battery for
jump starting. Your vehicle has a remote
positive (+) jump starting terminal for
that purpose. The remote positive (+) terminal
is located in the engine compartment on
the passenger’s side of the vehicle, on the
underhood fuse block. See Engine
more information on location.
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{CAUTION:
{CAUTION:
Using a match near a battery can cause
battery gas to explode. People have been
hurt doing this, and some have been
blinded. Use a flashlight if you need
more light.
Fans or other moving engine parts can
injure you badly. Keep your hands away
from moving parts once the engine is
running.
Be sure the battery has enough water.
You do not need to add water to the
battery installed in your new vehicle.
But if a battery has filler caps, be sure
the right amount of fluid is there. If it is
low, add water to take care of that first.
If you do not, explosive gas could be
present.
5. Check that the jumper cables do not have
loose or missing insulation. If they do, you
could get a shock. The vehicles could
be damaged too.
Before you connect the cables, here are some
basic things you should know. Positive (+)
will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+)
terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (−)
will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part
or to a remote negative (−) terminal if the
vehicle has one.
Do not connect positive (+) to negative (−),
or you will get a short that would damage the
battery and maybe other parts too. And do
not connect the negative (−) cable to the
negative (−) terminal on the dead battery
because this can cause sparks.
Battery fluid contains acid that can
burn you. Do not get it on you. If you
accidentally get it in your eyes or on
your skin, flush the place with water
and get medical help immediately.
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6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the
positive (+) terminal location of the vehicle
with the dead battery. Use a remote
9. Connect the other end of the negative (−) cable
at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead
battery, but not near engine parts that move.
The electrical connection is just as good there,
and the chance of sparks getting back to the
battery is much less.
positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
7. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect
it to the positive (+) terminal location of the
vehicle with the good battery. Use a remote
positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery
and run the engine for a while.
8. Now connect the black negative (−) cable to
the negative (−) terminal location of the
11. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead
battery. If it will not start after a few tries, it
probably needs service.
Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or
removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting
may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs
would not be covered by your warranty. Always
connect and remove the jumper cables in the
correct order, making sure that the cables do
not touch each other or other metal.
vehicle with the good battery. Use a remote
negative (−) terminal if the vehicle has one.
Do not let the other end touch anything until the
next step. The other end of the negative (−)
cable does not go to the dead battery. It goes to
a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a
remote negative (−) terminal on the vehicle with
the dead battery.
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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 fuse block cover to its original
position.
Jumper Cable Removal
A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part or
Remote Negative (−) Terminal
B. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal
and Remote Negative (−) Terminals
C. Dead Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal
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Headlamp Aiming
Bulb Replacement
Headlamp aim has been preset at the factory
and should need no further adjustment.
For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see
However, if your vehicle is damaged in an
accident, the headlamp aim may be affected.
Aim adjustment to the low-beam headlamps
may be necessary if it is difficult to see the
lane markers (for horizontal aim), or if oncoming
drivers flash their high-beam headlamps at
you (for vertical aim).
For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this
section, contact your dealer.
Halogen Bulbs
{CAUTION:
If you believe your headlamps need to be
re-aimed, it is recommend that you take the
vehicle to your dealer for service.
Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas
inside and can burst if you drop or
scratch the bulb. You or others could be
injured. Be sure to read and follow the
instructions on the bulb package.
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To replace one of these bulbs, do the following:
Headlamps, Front Turn Signal,
Sidemarker, and Parking Lamps
page 307 for more information.
A. Sidemarker
B. Low-Beam
Headlamp
C. High-Beam Headlamp
D. Parking/Turn
2. Remove the screw from the headlamp
assembly.
Signal Lamp
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8. Install the electrical connector to the bulb.
9. Install the new bulb by inserting the smallest
tab on the bulb base into the matching notch
in the retaining ring. Turn the bulb a
quarter-turn clockwise until it stops.
10. Reverse Steps 1 through 5 to reinstall the
headlamp assembly.
3. Remove the headlamp plastic retainer by
pulling it up.
4. Pull the headlamp assembly away from the
vehicle and remove the electrical connector.
5. Remove the round dust caps to gain access
to the bulbs.
6. Turn the old bulb counterclockwise and
remove it from the retaining ring by pulling
it away from the headlamp.
When you reinstall the headlamp assembly,
make sure to line up the pin in the headlamp
assembly with the slot in the vehicle.
7. Remove the electrical connector from the bulb
by raising the lock tab and pulling the
connector away from the bulb’s base.
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To replace one of these bulbs, do the following:
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Sidemarker,
Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps
for more information.
2. Remove the convenience net, if your vehicle
has one. Unhook the net from the upper
wing nut.
A. Rear Sidemarker Lamp
B. Back-up Lamp
C. Stoplamp/Taillamp/Turn Signal
3. Remove the two upper (convenience net)
wing nuts.
4. Pull the carpet away from the rear of the
vehicle.
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7. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to
remove it.
8. Install a new bulb.
9. Turn the bulb socket clockwise to reinstall it.
10. Reverse Steps 1 through 6 to reinstall the
taillamp assembly.
When reinstalling the taillamp assembly,
make sure that you line up the four posts
on the assembly with the slots in the
vehicle.
5. Remove the two hex nuts.
6. Pull out the taillamp assembly and disconnect
the wiring harness.
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License Plate Lamp
Replacement Bulbs
To replace one of these bulbs, do the following:
Exterior Lamp
Back-Up
Bulb Number
921
1. Turn the lamp assembly counterclockwise and
pull the lamp assembly out of the connector.
Front Parking/Turn Signal
License Plate Lamp
Headlamps
3157NAK
194
2. Pull the old bulb from the lamp assembly,
keeping the bulb straight as you pull it out.
3. Install the new bulb.
High-Beam
H9
H11
194
4. Reverse Steps 1 through 3 to reinstall the
license plate lamp.
Low-Beam
Sidemarker
Stoplamp, Taillamp, and
Turn Signal
3057
For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact
your dealer.
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Windshield Wiper Blade
Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for
wear or cracking. See Scheduled Maintenance
on page 410 for more information on wiper blade
inspection.
Replacement blades come in different types and
are removed in different ways. Here’s how to
remove the wiper blade:
2. While holding the wiper arm, pull the clip up
from the blade connecting point, and pull the
blade assembly down toward the windshield
to remove it from the wiper arm.
1. Pull the windshield wiper arm connector away
from the windshield.
3. Install the new wiper blade onto the wiper arm
and snap the clip down into place.
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To remove and replace the wiper blade element
do the following:
1. The wiper blade element has two notches at
one end which are engaged by the bottom
claw set of the wiper blade. At the notched
end of the wiper blade, pull the wiper
blade element from the wiper blade assembly.
2. To replace the element, start at the heel end
of the wiper blade, which is the end nearest
to the base of the wiper arm, and slide
the wiper blade element, notched end last,
into the wiper blade claw sets.
3. To engage the last claw into the notched
end of the wiper blade element, squeeze
the wiper blade element at the notched area,
and push the wiper blade element so the
claw fits into the notch.
A. Correct Installation
B. Incorrect Installation
For the proper type and size windshield wiper
blades, see Normal Maintenance Replacement
4. Be sure the two wiper blade element notches
are engaged by the last claw set, and that all
the other claws are properly engaged in the
slots of the wiper blade element on both sides.
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Tires
CAUTION: (Continued)
Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires
made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever
have questions about your tire warranty and where
to obtain service, see your GM Warranty booklet
for details. For additional information refer to
the tire manufacturer’s booklet included with
your vehicle.
• Underinflated tires pose the same
danger as overloaded tires. The
resulting accident could cause serious
injury. Check all tires frequently to
maintain the recommended pressure.
Tire pressure should be checked when
your vehicle’s tires are cold. See
• Overinflated tires are more likely to
be cut, punctured, or broken by a
sudden impact — such as when you
hit a pothole. Keep tires at the
recommended pressure.
{CAUTION:
Poorly maintained and improperly used
tires are dangerous.
• Overloading your vehicle’s tires can
cause overheating as a result of too
much friction. You could have an
air-out and a serious accident. See
• Worn, old tires can cause accidents.
If the tire’s tread is badly worn, or
if your vehicle’s tires have been
damaged, replace them.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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(A) Tire Size: The tire size is a combination of
letters and numbers used to define a particular
tire’s width, height, aspect ratio, construction type,
and service description. See the “Tire Size”
illustration later in this section for more detail.
Tire Sidewall Labeling
Useful information about a tire is molded into its
sidewall. The examples below show a typical
passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare
tire sidewall.
(B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria
Specification): Original equipment tires designed
to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have
a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall.
GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all
federal safety guidelines.
(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.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Example
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(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 three performance factors:
treadwear, traction, and temperature resistance.
For more information see Uniform Tire Quality
Compact Spare Tire Example
(G) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit:
Maximum load that can be carried and the
maximum pressure needed to support that load.
(A) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare
tire or temporary use tire has a tread life of
approximately 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and should
not be driven at speeds over 65 mph (105 km/h).
The compact spare tire is for emergency use
when a regular road tire has lost air and gone flat.
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If your vehicle has a compact spare tire, see
(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 362.
(B) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and
number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread.
(F) Tire Size: A combination of letters and
numbers define a tire’s width, height, aspect ratio,
construction type, and service description. The
letter T as the first character in the tire size means
the tire is for temporary use only.
(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.
(G) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria
Specification): Original equipment tires designed
to GM’s specific tire performance criteria have
a TPC specification code molded onto the sidewall.
GM’s TPC specifications meet or exceed all
federal safety guidelines.
(D) Maximum Cold Inflation Load Limit:
Maximum load that can be carried and the
maximum pressure needed to support that load.
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(C) Aspect Ratio: A two-digit number that
indicates the tire height-to-width measurements.
For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is
60, as shown in item C of the illustration, it would
mean that the tire’s sidewall is 60 percent as
high as it is wide.
Tire Size
The following illustration shows an example of a
typical passenger vehicle tire size.
(D) Construction Code: A letter code is used to
indicate the type of ply construction in the tire.
The letter R means radial ply construction;
the letter D means diagonal or bias ply
construction; and the letter B means belted-bias
ply construction.
(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 engineered
to standards set by the U.S. Tire and Rim
Association.
(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.
(B) Tire Width: The three-digit number indicates
the tire section width in millimeters from sidewall
to sidewall.
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Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the plies
are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees
to the centerline of the tread.
Tire Terminology and Definitions
Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire
pressing outward on each square inch of the
tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds
per square inch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa).
Cold Tire Pressure: The amount of air pressure
in a tire, measured in pounds per square inch
(psi) or kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up
heat from driving. See Inflation - Tire Pressure
on page 362.
Accessory Weight: This means the combined
weight of optional accessories. Some examples of
optional accessories are, automatic transmission/
transaxle, power steering, power brakes, power
windows, power seats, and air conditioning.
Curb Weight: This means the weight of a motor
vehicle with standard and optional equipment
including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and
coolant, but without passengers and cargo.
Aspect Ratio: The relationship of a tire’s height
to its width.
DOT Markings: A code molded into the sidewall
of a tire signifying that the tire is in compliance
with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
motor vehicle safety standards. The DOT code
includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN),
an alphanumeric designator which can also identify
the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand,
and date of production.
Belt: A rubber coated layer of cords that is
located between the plies and the tread. Cords
may be made from steel or other reinforcing
materials.
Bead: The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped
by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.
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GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. See
Maximum Load Rating: The load rating for a tire
at the maximum permissible inflation pressure
for that tire.
GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Rating for
page 279.
Maximum Loaded Vehicle Weight: The sum of
curb weight, accessory weight, vehicle capacity
weight, and production options weight.
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight Rating for
page 279.
Normal Occupant Weight: The number of
occupants a vehicle is designed to seat multiplied
by 150 lbs (68 kg). See Loading Your Vehicle
on page 279.
Intended Outboard Sidewall: The side of an
asymmetrical tire, that must always face outward
when mounted on a vehicle.
Occupant Distribution: Designated seating
positions.
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric unit for air pressure.
Outward Facing Sidewall: The side of an
asymmetrical tire that has a particular side that
faces outward when mounted on a vehicle.
The side of the tire that contains a whitewall, bears
white lettering, or bears manufacturer, brand,
and/or model name molding that is higher
or deeper than the same moldings on the other
sidewall of the tire.
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on
light duty trucks and some multipurpose passenger
vehicles.
Load Index: An assigned number ranging
from 1 to 279 that corresponds to the load carrying
capacity of a tire.
Maximum Inflation Pressure: The maximum
air pressure to which a cold tire may be inflated.
The maximum air pressure is molded onto the
sidewall.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A tire used on
passenger cars and some light duty trucks and
multipurpose vehicles.
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Recommended Inflation Pressure: Vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended tire inflation
pressure as shown on the tire placard. See
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Standards): A tire information system that
provides consumers with ratings for a tire’s
traction, temperature, and treadwear. Ratings are
determined by tire manufacturers using
government testing procedures. The ratings are
molded into the sidewall of the tire. See Uniform
Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire in which the
ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at
90 degrees to the centerline of the tread.
Vehicle Capacity Weight: The number of
designated seating positions multiplied by 150 lbs
(68 kg) plus the rated cargo load. See Loading
Rim: A metal support for a tire and upon which
the tire beads are seated.
Sidewall: The portion of a tire between the tread
and the bead.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the Tire: Load on
an individual tire due to curb weight, accessory
weight, occupant weight, and cargo weight.
Speed Rating: An alphanumeric code assigned
to a tire indicating the maximum speed at
which a tire can operate.
Vehicle Placard: A label permanently attached
to a vehicle showing the vehicle’s capacity
weight and the original equipment tire size and
recommended inflation pressure. See “Tire
and Loading Information Label” under Loading
Traction: The friction between the tire and the
road surface. The amount of grip provided.
Tread: The portion of a tire that comes into
contact with the road.
Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes
called wear bars, that show across the tread of a
tire when only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) of tread remains.
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A Tire and Loading Information label is attached to
the vehicle’s center pillar (B-pillar). This label
shows your vehicle’s original equipment tires and
the correct inflation pressures for your tires
when they are cold. The recommended cold tire
inflation pressure, shown on the label, is the
minimum amount of air pressure needed to
support your vehicle’s maximum load carrying
capacity.
Inflation - Tire Pressure
Tires need the correct amount of air pressure to
operate effectively.
Notice: Do not let anyone tell you that
under-inflation or over-inflation is all right.
It is not. If your tires do not have enough air
(under-inflation), you can get the following:
• Too much flexing
• Too much heat
• Tire overloading
• Premature or irregular wear
• Poor handling
• Reduced fuel economy
For additional information regarding how much
weight your vehicle can carry, and an example
of the Tire and Loading Information label,
load your vehicle affects vehicle handling and
ride comfort. Never load your vehicle with more
weight than it was designed to carry.
If your tires have too much air (over-inflation),
you can get the following:
When to Check
Check your tires once a month or more. Do not
forget to check the compact spare tire, it should be
at 60 psi (420 kPa). For additional information
regarding the compact spare tire, see Compact
• Unusual wear
• Poor handling
• Rough ride
• Needless damage from road hazards
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How to Check
Tire Pressure Monitor System
Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check
tire pressure. You cannot tell if your tires are
properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial
tires may look properly inflated even when they
are under-inflated. Check the tire’s inflation
pressure when the tires are cold. Cold means your
vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours
or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) uses
radio and sensor technology to check tire pressure
levels. If your vehicle has this feature, sensors
are mounted onto each tire and wheel assembly,
except for the spare tire. The TPMS sensors
monitor the air pressure in your vehicle’s tires and
transmit tire pressure readings to a receiver
located in the vehicle.
Remove the valve cap from the tire valve stem.
Press the tire gage firmly onto the valve to
get a pressure measurement. If the cold tire
inflation pressure matches 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.
When a low tire pressure condition is detected,
the TPMS will illuminate the low tire pressure
warning symbol on the instrument panel cluster,
and at the same time a message to check
the pressure in a specific tire will appear on the
Driver Information Center (DIC) display. The
low tire pressure warning symbol on the instrument
panel cluster and the CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
message will appear at each ignition cycle until the
tires are inflated to the correct inflation pressure.
Using the DIC, tire pressure levels can be
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.
viewed by the driver. For additional information
and details about the DIC operation and displays
Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve
stems. They help prevent leaks by keeping out
dirt and moisture.
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The low tire pressure warning light may come on
in cool weather when the vehicle is first started,
and then turn off as you start to drive. This may be
an early indicator that the air pressure in the
tire(s) are getting low and need to be inflated to
the proper pressure.
As an added safety
feature, your vehicle
has been equipped
with a tire pressure
monitoring system
(TPMS) that illuminates
a low tire pressure
telltale when one
or more of your tires is
significantly
Each tire, including the spare (if provided), should
be checked monthly when cold and inflated to
the inflation pressure recommended by the vehicle
manufacturer on the vehicle placard or tire
inflation pressure label. (If your vehicle has tires
of a different size than the size indicated on
the vehicle placard or tire inflation pressure label,
you should determine the proper tire inflation
pressure for those tires.)
under-inflated.
Accordingly, when the low tire pressure telltale
illuminates, you should stop and check your tires
as soon as possible, and inflate them to the
proper pressure. Driving on a significantly
under-inflated tire causes the tire to overheat and
can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also
reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may
affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability.
Please note that the TPMS is not a substitute for
proper tire maintenance, and it is the driver’s
responsibility to maintain correct tire pressure, even
if under-inflation has not reached the level to trigger
illumination of the TPMS low tire pressure telltale.
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Your vehicle has also been equipped with a
TPMS malfunction indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly. The TPMS
malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire
pressure telltale. When the system detects a
malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately
one minute and then remain continuously
illuminated. This sequence will continue upon
subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the
malfunction exists.
example of the Tire and Loading Information
label and its location on your vehicle. Also see
Your vehicle’s TPMS system can warn you about
a low tire pressure condition but it does not
replace normal tire maintenance. See Tire
on page 354.
Notice: Do not use a tire sealant if your vehicle
has Tire Pressure Monitors. The liquid sealant
can damage the tire pressure monitor sensors.
When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the
system may not be able to detect or signal low
tire pressure as intended. TPMS malfunctions may
occur for a variety of reasons, including the
installation of replacement or alternate tires or
wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS from
functioning properly. Always check the TPMS
malfunction telltale after replacing one or more
tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the
replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow
the TPMS to continue to function properly.
The TPMS will not function properly if one or more
of the TPMS sensors are missing or inoperable.
If the system detects a missing or inoperable
sensor, an error message SERVICE TIRE
MONITOR SYSTEM will be shown on the DIC
display. If you have replaced a tire/wheel assembly
without transferring the TPMS sensors, the error
message will be displayed. Once you re-install the
TPMS sensors, the error message should go
off. See your GM dealer for service if all TPMS
sensors are installed and the error message
comes on and stays on.
A Tire and Loading Information label, attached to
your vehicle, shows the size of your vehicle’s
original equipment tires and the correct inflation
pressure for your vehicle’s tires when they are cold.
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The TPMS matching process is outlined below:
1. Set the parking brake.
TPMS Sensor Identification Codes
Each TPMS sensor has a unique identification
code. Any time you replace one or more of
the TPMS sensors or rotate the vehicle’s tires, the
identification codes will need to be matched to
the new tire/wheel position. The sensors are
matched, to the tire/wheel positions, in the
following order: driver’s side front tire, passenger’s
side front tire, passenger’s side rear tire, and
driver’s side rear tire using a TPMS diagnostic tool.
See your GM dealer for service.
2. Turn the ignition switch to RUN with the
engine off.
3. Using the DIC, press the vehicle information
button until the LEARN TIRE POSITIONS
message displays.
4. Press the set/reset button to allow the system
to learn the tire positions. The horn will sound
twice to indicate the receiver is ready, and
the TIRE LEARNING ACTIVE message
will display. The TPMS system is ready for
the sensor matching process to begin.
The TPMS sensors may also be matched to each
tire/wheel position by increasing or decreasing
the tire’s air pressure. When increasing the tire’s
pressure, do not exceed the maximum inflation
pressure indicated on the tire’s sidewall.
5. Start with the driver’s side front tire.
6. Remove the valve cap from the tire’s valve
stem. Activate the TPMS sensor by increasing
or decreasing the tire’s air pressure for
You will have two minutes to match each tire
and wheel position. If it takes longer than
two minutes to match any tire and wheel position,
the matching process stops and you will need
to start over.
five seconds, or until a horn chirp sounds.
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The horn chirp, which may take up to
Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) and Industry and Science Canada
30 seconds to sound, confirms that the sensor
identification code has been matched to the
tire/wheel position. To decrease the tire’s
air-pressure use the pointed end of the valve
cap, a pencil-style air pressure gage, or a key.
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)
operates on a radio frequency and complies with
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
7. Proceed to the passenger’s side front tire,
and repeat the procedure in Step 6.
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference.
8. Proceed to the passenger’s side rear tire,
and repeat the procedure in Step 6.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
9. Proceed to the driver’s side rear tire, and
repeat the procedure in Step 6.
The Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS)
operates on a radio frequency and complies with
RSS-210 of Industry and Science Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
10. After hearing the confirming horn chirp for the
driver’s side rear tire, the tire learning process
ends. Turn the ignition switch to OFF.
11. Set all four tires to the recommended air
pressure level as indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information label.
1. This device may not cause interference.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
12. Put the valve caps back on the valve stems.
Changes or modifications to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
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Tire Inspection and Rotation
Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles
(8 000 to 13 000 km).
Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your
tires as soon as possible and check wheel
alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels.
more information.
The purpose of regular rotation is to achieve more
uniform wear for all tires on the vehicle. The
first rotation is the most important. See Scheduled
intervals.
When rotating your tires, always use the correct
rotation pattern shown here.
Do not include the compact spare tire in your tire
rotation.
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front
and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire
and Loading Information label. See Inflation - Tire
on page 279.
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Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor System. See
“TPMS Sensor Identification Codes” under
When It Is Time for New Tires
One way to tell when it
is time for new tires is
to check the treadwear
indicators, which will
appear when your tires
have only 1/16 inch
(1.6 mm) or less of tread
remaining.
Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly
tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under
{CAUTION:
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to
which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts
become loose after time. The wheel could
come off and cause an accident. When
you change a wheel, remove any rust or
dirt from places where the wheel attaches
to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can
use a cloth or a paper towel to do this;
but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush
later, if needed, to get all the rust or dirt
You need a new tire if any of the following
statements are true:
• You can see the indicators at three or more
places around the tire.
• You can see cord or fabric showing through
the tire’s rubber.
• The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut, or
snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric.
• 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.
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Buying New Tires
{CAUTION:
GM has developed and matched specific tires
for your vehicle. The original equipment tires
installed on your vehicle, when it was new,
were designed to meet General Motors Tire
Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec)
system rating. If you need replacement tires,
GM strongly recommends that you get tires with
the same TPC Spec rating. This way, your vehicle
will continue to have tires that are designed to
give the same performance and vehicle safety,
during normal use, as the original tires.
Mixing tires could cause you to lose
control while driving. If you mix tires of
different sizes, brands, or types (radial
and bias-belted tires), the vehicle may not
handle properly, and you could have a
crash. Using tires of different sizes,
brands, or types may also cause damage
to your vehicle. Be sure to use the correct
size, brand, and type of tires on all
wheels. It is all right to drive with your
compact spare temporarily, as it was
developed for use on your vehicle.
GM’s exclusive TPC Spec system considers over
a dozen critical specifications that impact the
overall performance of your vehicle, including
brake system performance, ride and handling,
traction control, and tire 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 355 for additional information.
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Vehicles that have a tire pressure monitoring
system may give an inaccurate low-pressure
warning if non-TPC Spec rated tires are installed
on your vehicle. Non-TPC Spec rated tires
may give a low-pressure warning that is higher or
lower than the proper warning level you would
get with TPC Spec rated tires. See Tire Pressure
{CAUTION:
If you use bias-ply tires on your vehicle,
the wheel rim flanges could develop
cracks after many miles of driving. A tire
and/or wheel could fail suddenly, causing
a crash. Use only radial-ply tires with the
wheels on your vehicle.
Your vehicle’s original equipment tires are listed
on the Tire and Loading Information Label.
This label is attached to the vehicle’s center pillar
for more information about the Tire and Loading
Information Label and its location on your vehicle.
If you must replace your vehicle’s tires with
those that do not have a TPC Spec number,
make sure they are the same size, load range,
speed rating, and construction type (radial
and bias-belted tires) as your vehicle’s
original tires.
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additional information.
Different Size Tires and Wheels
If you add wheels or tires that are a different size
than your original equipment wheels and tires,
this may affect the way your vehicle performs,
including its braking, ride and handling
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
characteristics, stability, and resistance to rollover.
Additionally, if your vehicle has electronic
systems such as, anti-lock brakes, traction control,
and electronic stability control, the performance
of these systems can be affected.
Quality grades can be found where applicable on
the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and
maximum section width. For example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
The following information relates to the system
developed by the United States National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which
grades tires by treadwear, traction, and
{CAUTION:
temperature performance. This applies only to
vehicles sold in the United States. The grades are
molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car
tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG)
system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type
snow tires, space-saver, or temporary use
spare tires, tires with nominal rim diameters of
10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), or to some
limited-production tires.
If you add different sized wheels, your
vehicle may not provide an acceptable
level of performance and safety if tires
not recommended for those wheels are
selected. You may increase the chance
that you will crash and suffer serious
injury. Only use GM specific wheel and
tire systems developed for your vehicle,
and have them properly installed by a
GM certified technician.
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While the tires available on General Motors
Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire
is based on straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
passenger cars and light trucks may vary with
respect to these grades, they must also conform to
federal safety requirements and additional General
Motors Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) standards.
Temperature – A, B, C
Treadwear
The temperature grades are A (the highest),
B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to
the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate
heat when tested under controlled conditions on a
specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause the material of the tire
to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive
temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
The grade C corresponds to a level of performance
which all passenger car tires must meet under
the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard
No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels
of performance on the laboratory test wheel
than the minimum required by law.
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based
on the wear rate of the tire when tested under
controlled conditions on a specified government
test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would
wear one and a half (1.5) times as well on the
government course as a tire graded 100. The
relative performance of tires depends upon the
actual conditions of their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the norm due to variations
in driving habits, service practices, and differences
in road characteristics and climate.
Traction – AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA,
A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire’s
ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under
controlled conditions on specified government test
surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C
may have poor traction performance.
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.
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Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
Wheel Replacement
The tires and wheels on your vehicle were aligned
and balanced carefully at the factory to give you
the longest tire life and best overall performance.
Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire
balancing will not be necessary on a regular basis.
However, if you notice unusual tire wear or your
vehicle pulling to one side or the other, the
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly
rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming
loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel
nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air,
replace it (except some aluminum wheels,
which can sometimes be repaired). See your
dealer if any of these conditions exist.
alignment may need to be checked. If you notice
your vehicle vibrating when driving on a smooth
road, your tires and wheels may need to be
rebalanced. See your dealer for proper diagnosis.
Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need.
Each new wheel should have the same
load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset
and be mounted the same way as the one
it replaces.
If you need to replace any of your wheels,
wheel bolts, or wheel nuts, replace them only
with new GM original equipment parts. This
way, you will be sure to have the right wheel,
wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for your vehicle.
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Used Replacement Wheels
{CAUTION:
{CAUTION:
Using the wrong replacement wheels,
wheel bolts, or wheel nuts on your vehicle
can be dangerous. It could affect the
braking and handling of your vehicle,
make your tires lose air and make you
lose control. You could have a collision
in which you or others could be injured.
Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts,
and wheel nuts for replacement.
Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is
dangerous. You cannot know how it has
been used or how far it has been driven.
It could fail suddenly and cause a crash.
If you have to replace a wheel, use a new
GM original equipment wheel.
Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause
problems with bearing life, brake cooling,
speedometer or odometer calibration,
headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground
clearance, and tire or tire chain clearance
to the body and chassis.
information.
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Tire Chains
CAUTION: (Continued)
{CAUTION:
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 wheels.
If your vehicle has P225/55R17 or
P235/50R18 size tires, do not use tire
chains, there is not enough clearance.
If you do find traction devices that will fit,
install them on the front tires.
Tire chains used on a vehicle without the
proper amount of clearance can cause
damage to the brakes, suspension, or
other vehicle parts. The area damaged by
the tire chains could cause you to lose
control of your vehicle and you or others
may be injured in a crash.
Notice: If your vehicle has a tire size other
than P225/55R17 or P235/50R18 size tires, use
tire chains only where legal and only when
you must. Use only SAE Class S-type chains
that are the proper size for your tires. Install
them on the front tires and tighten them
as tightly as possible with the ends securely
fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain
manufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear
the chains contacting your vehicle, stop
and retighten them. If the contact continues,
slow down until it stops. Driving too fast
or spinning the wheels with chains on will
damage your vehicle.
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.
CAUTION: (Continued)
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If a Tire Goes Flat
{CAUTION:
It is unusual for a tire to blowout while you are
driving, especially if you maintain your vehicle’s
tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it is
much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you
should ever have a blowout, here are a few tips
about what to expect and what to do:
Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to
do maintenance or repairs is dangerous
without the appropriate safety equipment
and training. The jack provided with your
vehicle is designed only for changing a
flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you
or others could be badly injured or killed
if the vehicle slips off the jack. Use the
jack provided with your vehicle only for
changing a flat tire.
If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag
that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take
your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the
steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane
position, and then gently brake to a stop well
out of the traffic lane.
A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much
like a 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 by steering the
way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very
bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently
brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.
If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to
use the jacking equipment to change a flat
tire safely.
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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 vehicle’s hazard warning flashers. See Hazard
front and rear of the tire farthest away
from the one being changed. That would
be the tire, on the other side, at the
opposite end of the vehicle.
{CAUTION:
When your vehicle has a flat tire, use the following
example as a guide to assist you in the placement
of wheel blocks.
Changing a tire can be dangerous. The
vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over
or fall on you or other people. You and
they could be badly 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 the shift lever in PARK (P).
3. Turn off the engine and do not restart
while the vehicle is raised.
4. Do not allow passengers to remain
in the vehicle.
To be even more certain the vehicle will
not move, you should put blocks at the
CAUTION: (Continued)
The following information will tell you next how to
use the jack and change a tire.
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Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
The equipment you will need is located in the trunk.
more information.
2. Remove the convenience net if the vehicle
has one.
4. Turn the wing nut counterclockwise and
remove it.
5. Remove the compact spare tire.
3. Lift the handle on the spare tire cover. The
handle may hook on the front edge of the
trunk’s weatherstrip to hold the cover out of
the way.
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6. Turn the nut holding the jack counterclockwise
and remove it. Then remove the jack and
wrench.
The tools you will need to change a tire include
the jack (A), extension and protection guide (B),
and wheel wrench (C).
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If needed, you can finish loosening them with your
fingers. The plastic nut caps will not come off.
Removing the Flat Tire and
Installing the Spare Tire
Use the flat end of the wheel wrench and pry
along the edge of the cover until it comes off. The
edge of the wheel cover could be sharp, so do
not try to remove it with your bare hands. Do not
drop the cover or lay it face down, as it could
become scratched or damaged.
Your vehicle may have aluminum wheels with
exposed wheel nuts. Use the wheel wrench to
loosen all the wheel nuts. Do not remove them yet.
Or, your vehicle may have steel wheel covers.
Once you have removed the wheel cover, use the
following procedure to remove the flat tire and
install the spare tire.
1. Turn the wheel
wrench once on
each wheel nut
to loosen them.
Do not remove
them yet.
To remove the steel wheel covers and wheel nut
caps, loosen the plastic nut caps with the
wheel wrench in a counterclockwise direction.
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{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:
2. For all wheel types, find the jacking location
using the diagram above and the corresponding
hoisting notches located on the bottom side
of the plastic molding. The notches in the plastic
molding are marked with a triangle shape to
help you find them.
Raising your vehicle with the jack
improperly positioned can damage the
vehicle and even make the vehicle fall.
To help avoid personal injury and vehicle
damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head
into the proper location before raising
the vehicle.
The front location is about 7.0 inches (17.7 cm)
from the rear edge of the front wheel well.
The rear location is about 4.5 inches (11.4 cm)
from the rear edge of the wheel well.
3. Put the compact spare tire near you.
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{CAUTION:
Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to
do maintenance or repairs is dangerous
without the appropriate safety equipment
and training. The jack provided with your
vehicle is designed only for changing a
flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you
or others could be badly injured or killed
if the vehicle slips off the jack. Use the
jack provided with your vehicle only for
changing a flat tire.
4. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle
clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off
the ground to install the compact spare tire.
5. Remove all wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.
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6. Remove any rust or
dirt from the wheel
bolts, mounting
surfaces and
{CAUTION:
Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts
to which it is fastened, can make the
wheel nuts become loose after 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 a scraper or wire brush later, if
needed, to get all the rust or dirt off.
spare wheel.
7. Install the compact spare tire.
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{CAUTION:
Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts.
If you do, the nuts might come loose.
Your wheel could fall off, causing a
serious accident.
8. Reinstall the wheel
nuts with the
rounded end of
the nuts toward
the wheel.
Tighten each nut
by hand until
9. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle
counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.
the wheel is held
against the hub.
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10. Tighten the wheel
nuts firmly in a
{CAUTION:
crisscross sequence
as shown.
Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly
tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel
to come loose and even come off. This
could lead to an accident. Be sure to
use the correct wheel nuts. If you have
to replace them, be sure to get new
GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop
somewhere as soon as you can and have
the nuts tightened with a torque wrench
to the proper torque specification. See
Capacities and Specifications on page 405
for wheel nut torque specification.
Notice: Wheel covers will not fit on your
compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover
on the compact spare, you could damage
the cover or the spare.
Do not try to put the wheel cover on your compact
spare tire. It will not fit. Store the wheel cover in
the trunk until you have the flat tire repaired
or replaced.
Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can
lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage.
To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly
tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence
and to the proper torque specification. See
the wheel nut torque specification.
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When storing a full-size tire, use the extension
with the protector, located in the foam holder,
to help avoid wheel surface damage.
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire
and Tools
To store a full-size tire, do the following:
1. Install the tools in their original location in
the trunk area and secure.
{CAUTION:
2. Place the tire valve stem facing down and
the protector/guide placed through a wheel
bolt hole.
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.
3. Remove the protector and attach the retainer
securely
4. Store the cover as far forward as possible.
When storing a compact spare tire in the trunk,
put the protector back in the foam holder.
After the compact spare tire has been installed on
the vehicle, store the flat tire in the trunk.
387
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The compact spare is for temporary use only.
Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire
as soon as you can. See Compact Spare Tire
on page 389. Use the following as a guide
for storing the compact spare tire and tools.
A. Cover
B. Wing Nut
C. Compact Spare Tire
D. Wing Nut
E. Jack
F. Wheel Wrench
G. Extension Protector
H. Foam Holder
I. Bolt Screw
388
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Notice: When the compact spare is installed,
do not take your vehicle through an automatic
car wash with guide rails. The compact
spare can get caught on the rails. That can
damage the tire and wheel, and maybe
other parts of your vehicle.
Compact Spare Tire
Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated
when your vehicle was new, it can lose air
after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly.
It should be 60 psi (420 kPa).
After installing the compact spare on your vehicle,
you should stop as soon as possible and make
sure your spare tire is correctly inflated. The
compact spare is made to perform well at speeds
up to 65 mph (105 km/h) for distances up to
3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you can finish your trip
and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced
where you want. You must calibrate the tire
inflation monitor system after installing or removing
the compact spare. See Tire Pressure Monitor
The system may not work correctly when the
compact spare is installed on the vehicle.
Of course, it is best to replace your spare with a
full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare
will last longer and be in good shape in case you
need it again.
Do not use your compact spare on other vehicles.
And do not mix your compact spare tire or
wheel with other wheels or tires. They will not fit.
Keep your spare tire and its wheel together.
Notice: Tire chains will not fit your compact
spare. Using them can damage your vehicle
and can damage the chains too. Do not use tire
chains on your compact spare.
389
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Remove any accidental over-spray from other
surfaces immediately. To prevent over-spray, apply
cleaner directly to the cleaning cloth.
Appearance Care
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
Notice: If you use abrasive cleaners when
cleaning glass surfaces on your vehicle, you
could scratch the glass and/or cause damage
to the integrated radio antenna and the
rear window 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 it is cleaned often. Although not always
visible, dust and dirt can accumulate on your
upholstery. Dirt can damage carpet, fabric, leather,
and plastic surfaces. Regular vacuuming is
recommended to remove particles from your
upholstery. It is important to keep your upholstery
from becoming and remaining heavily soiled.
Soils should be removed as quickly as possible.
Your vehicle’s interior may experience extremes of
heat that could cause stains to set rapidly.
Many cleaners contain solvents that may become
concentrated in your vehicle’s breathing space.
Before using cleaners, read and adhere to
all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning
your vehicle’s interior, maintain adequate
ventilation by opening your vehicle’s doors and
windows.
Lighter colored interiors may require more frequent
cleaning. Use care because newspapers and
garments that transfer color to your home
furnishings may also transfer color to your
vehicle’s interior.
Dust may be removed from small buttons and
knobs using a small brush with soft bristles.
Your dealer has a product for cleaning your
vehicle’s glass. Should it become necessary, you
can also obtain a product from your dealer to
remove odors from your vehicle’s upholstery.
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.
390
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Do not clean your vehicle using the following
cleaners or techniques:
Fabric/Carpet
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush
• Never use a knife or any other sharp object to
remove a soil from any interior surface.
attachment frequently to remove dust and loose
dirt. A canister vacuum with a beater bar in
the nozzle may only be used on floor carpet and
carpeted floor mats. For soils, always try to remove
them first with plain water or club soda. Before
cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil
as possible using one of the following techniques:
• Never use a stiff brush. It can cause damage
to your vehicle’s interior surfaces.
• Never apply heavy pressure or rub
aggressively with a cleaning cloth. Use of
heavy pressure can damage your interior and
does not improve the effectiveness of soil
removal.
• For liquids: gently blot the remaining soil
with a paper 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. Using too much soap will leave
a residue that leaves streaks and attracts dirt.
For liquid cleaners, about 20 drops per
gallon (3.78 L) of water is a good guide.
• For solid dry soils: remove as much as
possible and then vacuum.
To clean, use the following instructions:
1. Saturate a lint-free, clean white cloth with
water or club soda.
• Do not heavily saturate your upholstery while
cleaning.
2. Wring the cloth to remove excess moisture.
• Damage to your vehicle’s interior may result
from the use of many organic solvents such
as naptha, alcohol, etc.
391
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3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and
gently rub toward the center. Continue
cleaning, using a clean area of the cloth each
time it becomes soiled.
Leather
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used
to remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning
is necessary, a soft cloth dampened with a mild
soap solution can be used. Allow the leather to dry
naturally. Do not use heat to dry. Never use
steam to clean leather. Never use spot lifters or
spot removers on leather. Many commercial
leather cleaners and coatings that are sold to
preserve and protect leather may permanently
change the appearance and feel of your leather
and are not recommended. Do not use silicone or
wax-based products, or those containing organic
solvents to clean your vehicle’s interior because
they can alter the appearance by increasing
the gloss in a non-uniform manner. Never use
shoe polish on your leather.
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.
If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric
cleaner or spot lifter may be necessary. When a
commercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be
used, test a small hidden area for colorfastness
first. If the locally cleaned area gives any
impression that a ring formation may result, clean
the entire surface.
After the cleaning process has been completed, a
paper towel can be used to blot excess moisture
from the fabric or carpet.
392
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Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other
Plastic Surfaces
Care of Safety Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to
remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning is
necessary, a clean soft cloth dampened with a
mild soap solution can be used to gently remove
dust and dirt. Never use spot lifters or removers
on plastic surfaces. Many commercial cleaners and
coatings that are sold to preserve and protect
soft plastic surfaces may permanently change the
appearance and feel of your interior and are
not recommended. Do not use silicone or
wax-based products, or those containing organic
solvents to clean your vehicle’s interior because
they can alter the appearance by increasing
the gloss in a non-uniform manner.
{CAUTION:
Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you
do, it may severely weaken them. In a
crash, they might not be able to provide
adequate protection. Clean safety belts
only with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Some commercial products may increase gloss on
your instrument panel. The increase in gloss
may cause annoying reflections in the windshield
and even make it difficult to see through the
windshield under certain conditions.
393
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Washing Your Vehicle
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
The paint finish on the vehicle provides beauty,
depth of color, gloss retention, and durability.
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and
a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps
and lenses. Follow instructions under Washing
The best way to preserve the vehicle’s finish is to
keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm
or cold water.
Finish Care
Do not wash the vehicle in the direct rays of
the sun. Use a car washing soap. Do not
use strong soaps or chemical detergents. Be
sure to rinse the vehicle well, removing all soap
residue completely. Approved cleaning products
can be obtained from your dealer. See Vehicle
Do not use cleaning agents that are petroleum
based, or that contain acid or abrasives. All
cleaning agents should be flushed promptly
and not allowed to dry on the surface, or they
could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface
scratches and water spotting.
Occasional waxing or mild polishing of the vehicle
by hand may be necessary to remove residue
from the paint finish. Approved cleaning products
can be obtained from your dealer. See Vehicle
Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive
polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint
finish may damage it. Use only non-abrasive
waxes and polishes that are made for a
basecoat/clearcoat paint finish on your vehicle.
High pressure car washes may cause water to
enter the vehicle.
394
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The vehicle has a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish.
The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to
the colored basecoat. Always use waxes
and polishes that are non-abrasive and made
for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish.
Windshield and Wiper Blades
If the windshield is not clear after using the
windshield washer, or if the wiper blade chatters
when running, wax, sap, or other material may
be on the blade or windshield.
Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and
other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and
tar, tree sap, bird 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. If necessary, use
non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for
painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
Clean the outside of the windshield with a glass
cleaning liquid or powder and water solution.
The windshield is clean if beads do not form when
it is rinsed with water.
Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper
blades and affect their performance. Clean
the blade by wiping vigorously with a cloth soaked
in full-strength windshield washer solvent. Then
rinse the blade with water.
Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging,
weather, and chemical fallout that can take their
toll over a period of years. To help keep the
paint finish looking new, keep the vehicle in a
garage or covered whenever possible.
Check the wiper blades and clean them as
necessary; replace blades that look worn.
395
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Notice: If you drive your vehicle through
an automatic car wash that has silicone
carbide tire cleaning brushes, you could
damage the aluminum or chrome-plated
wheels. The repairs would not be covered by
your warranty. Never drive a vehicle equipped
with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels
through an automatic car wash that uses
silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes.
Aluminum Wheels
Notice: If you use strong soaps, chemicals,
abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or
cleaners that contain acid on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels, you could damage the
surface of the wheel(s). The repairs would
not be covered by your warranty. Use
only GM-approved cleaners on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels.
Do not take the vehicle through an automatic car
wash that has silicone carbide tire cleaning
brushes. These brushes can also damage the
surface of these wheels.
Keep the wheels clean using a soft clean cloth
with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water.
After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean
towel. A wax may then be applied.
Tires
Notice: Using chrome polish on aluminum
wheels could damage the wheels. The repairs
would not be covered by your warranty.
Use chrome polish on chrome wheels only.
To clean the tires, use a stiff brush with tire
cleaner.
Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing
products on your vehicle may damage the
paint finish and/or tires. When applying a tire
dressing, always wipe off any overspray
from all painted surfaces on your vehicle.
The surface of these wheels is similar to the
painted surface of the vehicle. Do not use strong
soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive
cleaners, cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning
brushes on them because the surface could
be damaged. Do not use chrome polish on
aluminum wheels.
396
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Sheet Metal Damage
Underbody Maintenance
Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust
control can collect on the underbody. If these are
not removed, corrosion and rust can develop on the
underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan,
and exhaust system even though they have
corrosion protection.
At least every spring, flush these materials from the
underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where
mud and debris can collect. Dirt packed in close
areas of the frame should be loosened before being
flushed. Your dealer or an underbody car washing
system can do this for you.
If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal
repair or replacement, make sure the body repair
shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts
repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection.
Original manufacturer replacement parts will
provide the corrosion protection while maintaining
the warranty.
Finish Damage
Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in
the finish should be repaired right away. Bare
metal will corrode quickly and may develop into
major repair expense.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Some weather and atmospheric conditions can
create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants
can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on the
vehicle. This damage can take two forms: blotchy,
ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint surface.
Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with
touch-up materials available from your dealer.
Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected
in your dealer’s body and paint shop.
Although no defect in the paint job causes this, GM
will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces
of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition
within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of
purchase, whichever occurs first.
397
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Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
Description
Usage
Removes swirl marks, fine
scratches, and other light
surface contamination.
Description
Usage
Swirl Remover Polish
Polishing Cloth
Wax-Treated
Interior and exterior
polishing cloth.
Removes light scratches
and protects finish.
Cleaner Wax
Tar and Road
Oil Remover
Removes tar, road oil,
and asphalt.
Cleans, shines, and
protects in one step.
No wiping necessary.
Foaming Tire Shine
Low Gloss
Chrome Cleaner
and Polish
Use on chrome or
stainless steel.
Medium foaming
shampoo. Cleans and
lightly waxes.
White Sidewall
Tire Cleaner
Removes soil and black
marks from whitewalls.
Wash Wax Concentrate
Vinyl Cleaner
Glass Cleaner
Cleans vinyl.
Biodegradable and
phosphate free.
Removes dirt, grime,
smoke and fingerprints.
Quickly removes spots
and stains from carpets,
vinyl, and cloth
Spot Lifter
Removes dirt and grime
from chrome wheels and
wire wheel covers.
Chrome and Wire
Wheel Cleaner
upholstery.
Odorless spray odor
eliminator used on fabrics,
vinyl, leather and carpet.
Removes dust,
Odor Eliminator
fingerprints, and surface
contaminants. Spray on
and wipe off.
Finish Enhancer
398
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Engine Identification
Vehicle Identification
The eighth character in the VIN is the engine
code. This code will help you identify your vehicle’s
engine, specifications, and replacement parts.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Service Parts Identification Label
You will find this label in the trunk. It is very helpful
if you ever need to order parts. On this label,
you will find the following:
• VIN
• Model designation
• Paint information
• Production options and special equipment
Do not remove this label from the vehicle.
This is the legal identifier for your vehicle.
It appears on a plate in the front corner of the
instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can
see it if you look through the windshield from
outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on
the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels
and the certificates of title and registration.
399
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Windshield Wiper Fuses
Electrical System
The windshield wiper motor is protected by a fuse.
If the motor overheats due to heavy snow, etc., the
wiper will stop until the motor cools. If the overload
is caused by some electrical problem, have it fixed.
Add-On Electrical Equipment
Notice: Do not add anything electrical to your
vehicle unless you check with your dealer
first. Some electrical equipment can damage
your vehicle and the damage would not
be covered by your warranty. Some add-on
electrical equipment can keep other
Power Windows and Other
Power Options
A circuit breaker in the instrument panel fuse
block protects the power windows and other power
accessories. When the current load is too heavy,
the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting
the circuit until the problem is fixed.
components from working as they should.
Add-on equipment can drain your vehicle’s battery,
even if your vehicle is not operating.
Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before
attempting to add anything electrical to your
vehicle, see Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected
from short circuits by a combination of fuses
and circuit breakers. This greatly reduces
the chance of fires caused by electrical problems.
Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse.
If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse.
Be sure you replace a bad fuse with a new
one of the identical size and rating.
Headlamp Wiring
The headlamp circuit is protected by individual
fuses in the underhood fuse block. An electrical
overload will cause the fuse to blow. If this
happens, have your headlamp system checked
right away.
400
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Instrument Panel Fuse Block
Fuses
PWR/SEAT
PWR/WNDW
RAP
HTD/SEAT
AUX
Usage
Power Seats
Power Window
Retained Accessory Power
Heated Seats
Auxiliary Outlets
Amplifier
AMP
S/ROOF
XM
Sunroof
XM™ Radio
Canister
Door Locks
Power Mirrors
Airbags
The fuse block is located on the passenger side
of the vehicle in the carpet molding. Remove
the fuse block door to access the fuses.
CNSTR
DR/LCK
PWR/MIR
AIRBAG
TRUNK
TRUNK
Trunk
Trunk Relay
401
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Underhood Fuse Block
The underhood fuse block is located in the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 308 for more information on location.
Fuses
LT PARK
Usage
Fuses
FAN 1
SPARE
Usage
Driver’s Side Parking Lamp
Passenger’s Side Parking Lamp
Cooling Fan 1
Spare
RT PARK
402
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Fuses
SPARE
Usage
Fuses
ONSTAR
Usage
Spare
OnStar®
Starter
AIRBAG/
DISPLAY
STRTR
Airbag, Display
Transaxle
ABS MTR1
BATT 3
Anti-lock Brake System Motor 1
Battery 3
TRANS
ECM IGN
RT T/SIG
LT T/SIG
DRL 1
Engine Control Module, Ignition
Passenger’s Side Turn Signal
Driver’s Side Turn Signal
Daytime Running Lamps 1
Horn
WSW
Windshield Wiper
Heated Mirror
Spare
HTD MIR
SPARE
BATT 1
Battery 1
HORN
ABS MTR2
AIR PUMP
BATT 2
Anti-lock Brake System Motor 2
Air Pump
SPARE
Spare
PWR
DROP/CRNK
Power Drop, Crank
Steering Wheel
Battery 2
INT LIGHTS
Interior Lamps
STRG WHL
ECM/TCM
INT LTS/
PNL DIM
Interior Lamps, Instrument
Panel Dimmer
Engine Control Module, Transaxle
Control Module
A/C CMPRSR
AIR SOL
Air Conditioning Compressor
RVC SEN
RADIO
Regulated Voltage Control Sensor
AIR (Air Injection Reactor)
Solenoid
Audio System
Fog Lamps
Spare
FOG LAMPS
SPARE
AUX PWR
BCM
Auxiliary Power
Body Control Module
BATT 4
Battery 4
403
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Fuses
Usage
Fuses
Usage
CHMSL/
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp,
Back-up Lamps
LT LO BEAM
RT LO BEAM
LT HI BEAM
RT HI BEAM
Driver’s Side Low-Beam
Passenger’s Side Low-Beam
Driver’s Side High-Beam
Passenger’s Side High-Beam
BCK-UP
DISPLAY
Display
Electronic Throttle Control,
Engine Control Module
ETC/ECM
INJ 1
Injector 1
Relay
Usage
EMISSIONS 1
INJ 2
Emissions 1
Injector 2
STRTR
Starter
REAR DEFOG Rear Defogger
EMISSIONS 2
RT SPOT
LT SPOT
HDLP MDL
DRL 2
Emissions 2
Right Spot
FAN 1
Cooling Fan 1
Cooling Fan 2
Air Conditioning Compressor
Cooling Fan 3
Fuel Pump
FAN 2
Left Spot
A/C CMPRSR
FAN 3
Headlamp Module
Daytime Running Lamps 2
Cooling Fan 2
Fuel Pump
FUEL/PUMP
PWR/TRN
FAN 2
Powertrain
FUEL/PUMP
WPR
Wiper
404
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Capacities and Specifications
The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. See Recommended
Capacities
Application
English
Metric
For the air conditioning system refrigerant charge
amount, see the refrigerant caution label located
under the hood. See your dealer for more information.
Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a
Automatic Transaxle
7.4 qt
7.0 L
When draining/replacing converter, more fluid may be needed.
Cooling System Including Reservoir
3.5L V6, 3.5L V6 Flexible Fuel, 3.9L V6 Engines
5.3L V8 Engine
10.1 qt
13.3 qt
9.6 L
12.6 L
Engine Oil with Filter
3.5L V6, 3.5L V6 Flexible Fuel and 3.9L V6 Engines
5.3L V8 Engine
4.0 qt
6.0 qt
3.8 L
5.7 L
405
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Capacities
Application
English
Metric
Fuel Tank
3.5L Engine (with NU6 emissions) sold new in CA, ME,
VT, NY, MA (see your dealer for bordering states)
17.0 gal
17.5 gal
64.4 L
66.2 L
3.5L Engine (without NU6 emissions) sold new in all other
states (see your dealer for more information)
3.9L and 5.3L Engines sold in all states
Wheel Nut Torque
17.5 gal
100 lb ft
66.2 L
140 Nm
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this
manual. Recheck fluid level after filling.
Engine Specifications
Engine
3.5L V6
VIN Code
Transaxle
Automatic
Automatic
Spark Plug Gap
N
K
0.040 inches (1.01 mm)
0.040 inches (1.01 mm)
3.5L Flexible Fuel V6
3.9L V6 with Active
Fuel Management™
R
C
Automatic
Automatic
0.040 inches (1.01 mm)
0.040 inches (1.01 mm)
5.3L V8
406
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Maintenance Requirements
Maintenance Schedule
Notice: Maintenance intervals, checks,
inspections, replacement parts, and
recommended fluids and lubricants as
prescribed in this manual are necessary to
keep your vehicle in good working condition.
Any damage caused by failure to follow
scheduled maintenance may not be covered
by warranty.
Introduction
Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level
and change as recommended.
Your Vehicle and the Environment
Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep
your vehicle in good working condition, but also
helps the environment. All recommended
maintenance is important. Improper vehicle
maintenance can even affect the quality of the air
we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong
tire inflation can increase the level of emissions
from your vehicle. To help protect our environment,
and to keep your vehicle in good condition, be
sure to maintain your vehicle properly.
Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The
Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties.
See your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet
or your dealer for details.
408
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This schedule is for vehicles that:
Using the Maintenance Schedule
• carry passengers and cargo within
We at General Motors want to help you keep your
vehicle in good working condition. But we do
not know exactly how you will drive it. You may
drive very short distances only a few times a week.
Or you may drive long distances all the time in
very hot, dusty weather. You may use your vehicle
in making deliveries. Or you may drive it to
work, to do errands, or in many other ways.
recommended limits. You will find these limits
on the Tire and Loading Information label.
• are driven on reasonable road surfaces within
legal driving limits.
Because of all the different ways people use their
vehicles, maintenance needs vary. You may
need more frequent checks and replacements.
So please read the following and note how
you drive. If you have any questions on how to
keep your vehicle in good condition, see your
GM Goodwrench® dealer.
page 410 should be performed when indicated.
information.
409
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If you want to purchase service information,
on page 447.
{CAUTION:
what should be checked, when to check it, and
what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle
in good condition.
Performing maintenance work on a vehicle
can be dangerous. In trying to do some
jobs, you can be seriously injured. Do your
own maintenance work only if you have the
required know-how and the proper tools
and equipment for the job. If you have any
doubt, see your GM Goodwrench® dealer to
have a qualified technician do the work.
The proper replacement parts, fluids, and
lubricants to use are listed in Recommended
When your vehicle is serviced, make sure these
are used. All parts should be replaced and all
necessary repairs done before you or anyone else
drives the vehicle. We recommend the use of
genuine GM parts.
Some maintenance services can be complex.
So, unless you are technically qualified and have
the necessary equipment, you should have
your GM Goodwrench® dealer do these jobs.
When you go to your GM Goodwrench® dealer for
your service needs, you will know that GM-trained
and supported service technicians will perform
the work using genuine GM parts.
Scheduled Maintenance
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message
comes on, it means that service is required for your
vehicle. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as
possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km).
410
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It is possible that, if you are driving under the best
conditions, the engine oil life system may not
indicate that vehicle service is necessary for over a
year. However, your engine oil and filter must be
changed at least once a year and at this time the
system must be reset. Your GM Goodwrench®
dealer has GM-trained service technicians who
will perform this work using genuine GM parts and
reset the system.
in the following for “Maintenance I” and
“Maintenance II.” Generally, 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
thereafter. However, in some cases,
Maintenance II may be required more often.
Maintenance I — Use Maintenance I if the
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes on
within 10 months since the vehicle was purchased
or Maintenance II was performed.
If the engine oil life system is ever reset
accidentally, you must service your vehicle within
3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last service.
Remember to reset the oil life system whenever
the oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life System
on page 316 for information on the Engine Oil
Life System and resetting the system.
Maintenance II — Use Maintenance II if the
previous service performed was Maintenance I.
Always use Maintenance II whenever the
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message comes
on 10 months or more since the last service
or if the message has not come on at all for
one year.
When the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON message
appears, certain services, checks, and inspections
are required. Required services are described
Scheduled Maintenance
Service
Maintenance I Maintenance II
•
•
•
•
Visually check for any leaks or damage. See footnote (k).
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Scheduled Maintenance (cont’d)
Service
Maintenance I Maintenance II
Inspect engine air cleaner filter. If necessary, replace filter. See Engine Air
•
Rotate tires and check inflation pressures and wear. See Tire Inspection and
on page 417.
•
•
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).
Check transaxle fluid level and add fluid as needed.
Replace passenger compartment air filter, if equipped. See footnote (g).
Inspect throttle system. See footnote (j).
412
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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
(40 000)
50,000
75,000
100,000
125,000
150,000
Service and Miles (Kilometers)
(80 000) (120 000) (160 000) (200 000) (240 000)
Inspect fuel system for damage
or leaks.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Inspect exhaust system for loose
or damaged components.
Replace engine air cleaner filter. See
Change automatic transaxle fluid and
filter (severe service). See footnote (h).
Change automatic transaxle fluid and
filter (normal service).
Replace spark plugs and inspect spark
plug wires. An Emission Control
Service.
•
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Additional Required Services (cont’d)
25,000
(40 000)
50,000
75,000
100,000
125,000
150,000
Service and Miles (Kilometers)
(80 000) (120 000) (160 000) (200 000) (240 000)
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 (n).
•
(b) Visually inspect front and rear suspension and
steering system for damaged, loose, or missing
parts or signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines
and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc.
Maintenance Footnotes
† The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the
California Air Resources Board has determined that
the failure to perform this maintenance item will not
nullify the emission warranty or limit recall liability
prior to the completion of the vehicle’s useful life.
We, however, urge that all recommended
(c) Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced
if they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated.
Inspect all pipes, fittings, and clamps; replace with
genuine GM parts as needed. To help ensure
proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling
system and pressure cap and cleaning the outside
of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is
recommended at least once a year.
maintenance services be performed at the indicated
intervals and the maintenance be recorded.
(a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for
proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing,
etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors
for surface condition. Inspect other brake
parts, including calipers, parking brake, etc.
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(d) Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or
cracking. Replace wiper blades that appear worn
or damaged or that streak or miss areas of
the windshield.
(g) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions,
the filter may require replacement more often.
(h) Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the
vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of
these conditions:
(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and
all belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and
anchorages are working properly. Look for
any other loose or damaged safety belt system
parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety
belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.
Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also
look for any opened or broken airbag coverings,
and have them repaired or replaced. The
− In heavy city traffic where the outside
temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C)
or higher.
− In hilly or mountainous terrain.
− When doing frequent trailer towing.
− Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
(i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This
service can be complex; you should have
your dealer perform this service. See Engine
Coolant on page 323 for what to use. Inspect
hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap,
and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling
system and pressure cap.
airbag system does not need regular maintenance.
(f) Lubricate all key lock cylinders. Lubricate all
hinges and latches, including those for the
body doors, hood, secondary latch, pivots, spring
anchor, release pawl, rear compartment, glove
box door, console door, and any folding seat
hardware. More frequent lubrication may
be required when exposed to a corrosive
environment. Applying silicone grease on
weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
(j) Check throttle system for interference or
binding and for damaged or missing parts. Replace
parts as needed. Replace any components that
have high effort or excessive wear. Do not
lubricate accelerator or cruise control cables.
415
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(k) A fluid loss in any vehicle system could
indicate a problem. Have the system inspected
and repaired and the fluid level checked. Add fluid
if needed.
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood checks
at each fuel fill.
(m) If you drive regularly under dusty conditions,
inspect the filter at each engine oil change.
Engine Oil Level Check
Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil
further details.
(n) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive
cracks, or obvious damage. Replace belt if
necessary.
Notice: It is important to check your oil
regularly and keep it at the proper level.
Failure to keep your engine oil at the proper
level can cause damage to your engine
not covered by your warranty.
Owner Checks and Services
These owner checks and services should be
performed at the intervals specified to help
ensure the safety, dependability, and emission
control performance of your vehicle. Your
GM Goodwrench® dealer can assist you with
these checks and services.
Engine Coolant Level Check
Check the engine coolant level and add
DEX-COOL® coolant mixture if necessary. See
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
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
Check the windshield washer fluid level in
the windshield washer fluid reservoir and add
the proper fluid if necessary.
416
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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
to make sure the spare tire is stored securely.
{CAUTION:
When you are doing this inspection, the
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be injured.
Tire Wear Inspection
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, rotate the tires. See Tire
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough
room around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be
ready to turn off the engine immediately if
it starts.
3. 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, contact your GM Goodwrench®
dealer for service.
417
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Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock Control
System Check
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check
While parked, and with the parking brake set,
try to turn the ignition to OFF in each shift lever
position.
{CAUTION:
• The ignition should turn to OFF only when the
shift lever is in PARK (P).
Whenyou are doing this inspection, the
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be injured.
• The ignition key should come out only in OFF.
Contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer if service
is required.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough
room around the vehicle. It should be parked
on a level surface.
Be ready to apply the regular brake
immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the ignition to RUN,
but do not start the engine. Without applying
the regular brake, try to move the shift
lever out of PARK (P) with normal effort. If the
shift lever moves out of PARK (P), contact
your GM Goodwrench® dealer for service.
418
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Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing
downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular
brake, set the parking brake.
Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle
Park (P) Mechanism Check
• To check the parking brake’s holding ability:
With the engine running and transaxle in
NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure
from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the
vehicle is held by the parking brake only.
{CAUTION:
When you are doing this check, your
vehicle could begin to move. You or
others could be injured and property
could be damaged. Make sure there is
room in front of your vehicle in case it
begins to roll. Be ready to apply the
regular brake at once should the vehicle
begin to move.
• To check the PARK (P) mechanism’s holding
ability: With the engine running, shift to
PARK (P). Then release the parking brake
followed by the regular brake.
Contact your GM Goodwrench® dealer if service
is required.
Underbody Flushing Service
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any
corrosive materials from the underbody. Take
care to clean thoroughly any areas where mud
and other debris can collect.
419
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Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name,
part number, or specification may be obtained
from your dealer.
Usage
Fluid/Lubricant
GM Power Steering Fluid
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021184,
in Canada 89021186).
DEXRON®-VI Automatic
Transmission Fluid.
Power Steering
System
Automatic
Transaxle
Usage
Fluid/Lubricant
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241,
in Canada 10953474).
Key Lock
Cylinders
Engine oil which meets
GM Standard GM6094M and
displays the American Petroleum
Institute Certified for Gasoline
Engines starburst symbol.
Hood Latch
Assembly,
Secondary
Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346293,
Engine Oil
GM Goodwrench® oil meets all
the requirements for your vehicle.
To determine the proper viscosity
for your vehicle’s engine, see
Latch, Pivots, in Canada 992723) or lubricant
Spring
Anchor, and
Release Pawl
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241,
in Canada 10953474).
Hood and Door
Hinges
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only DEX-COOL®
Coolant. See Engine Coolant
on page 323.
Engine Coolant
Weatherstrip Lubricant
(GM Part No. U.S. 3634770,
Hydraulic Brake Delco® Supreme 11 Brake Fluid
Weatherstrip in Canada 10953518) or
System
or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.
Conditioning
Dielectric Silicone Grease
(GM Part No. U.S. 12345579,
in Canada 992887).
Windshield
Washer
GM Optikleen® Washer Solvent.
420
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Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your
GM dealer.
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
AC Delco Part
Part
GM Part Number
Number
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
Engine Oil Filter
10350737
A2962C
3.5L V6, 3.5L V6 Flexible Fuel and 3.9L V6 Engines
5.3L V8 Engine
89017342
89017524
15284938
PF61
PF48
Passenger Compartment Air Filter
Spark Plugs
CF132
3.5L V6, 3.5LV6 Flexible Fuel and 3.9L V6 Engines
5.3L V8 Engine
12591131
12571164
41-100
41-985
Windshield Wiper Blades
Driver’s – 22 inches (55.0 cm)
Passenger’s-Driver’s – 22 inches (56.0 cm)
19120353
19120354
—
—
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Maintenance Record
After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service,
record pages. You should retain all maintenance receipts.
Maintenance Record
Odometer
Reading
Maintenance I or
Maintenance II
Date
Serviced By
Services Performed
423
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Maintenance Record (cont’d)
Odometer
Reading
Maintenance I or
Maintenance II
Date
Serviced By
Services Performed
424
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Maintenance Record (cont’d)
Odometer
Reading
Maintenance I or
Maintenance II
Date
Serviced By
Services Performed
425
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Maintenance Record (cont’d)
Odometer
Reading
Maintenance I or
Maintenance II
Date
Serviced By
Services Performed
426
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STEP TWO: If after contacting a member of
dealership management, it appears your concern
cannot be resolved by the dealership without
further help, in the U.S., contact the Chevrolet
Customer Assistance Center by calling
1-800-222-1020. In Canada, contact General
Motors of Canada Customer Communication
Centre by calling 1-800-263-3777 (English) or
1-800-263-7854 (French).
Customer Assistance and
Information
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
Your satisfaction and goodwill are important
to your dealer and to Chevrolet. Normally,
any concerns with the sales transaction or the
operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your
dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes,
however, despite the best intentions of all
concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
If your concern has not been resolved to your
satisfaction, the following steps should be taken:
We encourage you to call the toll-free number in
order to give your inquiry prompt attention. Please
have the following information available to give
the Customer Assistance Representative:
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This is
available from the vehicle registration or
title, or the plate at the top left of the
instrument panel and visible through the
windshield.
STEP ONE: Discuss your concern with a member
of dealership management. Normally, concerns
can be quickly resolved at that level. If the matter
has already been reviewed with the sales,
service, or parts manager, contact the owner of
the dealership or the general manager.
• Dealership name and location.
• Vehicle delivery date and present mileage
(kilometers).
428
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When contacting Chevrolet, please remember that
your concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s
facility. That is why we suggest you follow
Step One first if you have a concern.
You may contact the BBB Auto Line Program using
the toll-free telephone number or write them at the
following address:
BBB Auto Line Program
Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
4200 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 800
STEP THREE — U.S. Owners: Both General
Motors and your dealer are committed to making
sure you are completely satisfied with your
new vehicle. However, if you continue to remain
unsatisfied after following the procedure outlined in
Steps 1 and 2, you should file with the BBB
Auto Line Program to enforce your rights.
Arlington, VA 22203-1838
Telephone: 1-800-955-5100
This program is available in all 50 states and the
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.
The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court
program administered by the Council of Better
Business Bureaus to settle automotive disputes
regarding vehicle repairs or the interpretation of the
New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Although you may
be required to resort to this informal dispute
resolution program prior to filing a court action,
use of the program is free of charge and your case
will generally be heard within 40 days. If you do not
agree with the decision given in your case, you may
reject it and proceed with any other venue for relief
available to you.
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STEP THREE — Canadian Owners: In the event
that you do not feel your concerns have been
addressed after following the procedure outlined in
Steps 1 and 2, General Motors of Canada Limited
wants you to be aware of its participation in a
no-charge Mediation/Arbitration Program.
General Motors of Canada Limited has committed
to binding arbitration of owner disputes involving
factory-related vehicle service claims. The program
provides for the review of the facts involved by an
impartial third party arbiter, and may include an
informal hearing before the arbiter. The program is
designed so that the entire dispute settlement
process, from the time you file your complaint to
the final decision, should be completed in
For further information concerning eligibility in
the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan
(CAMVAP), call toll-free 1-800-207-0685.
Alternatively, you may call the General Motors
Customer Communication Centre, 1-800-263-3777
(English), 1-800-263-7854 (French), or you may
write to:
The Mediation/Arbitration Program
c/o Customer Communication Centre
General Motors of Canada Limited
Mail Code: CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Your inquiry should be accompanied by your
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
approximately 70 days. We believe our impartial
program offers advantages over courts in most
jurisdictions because it is informal, quick, and free
of charge.
430
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My GM Canada (Canada only)
Online Owner Center
My GM Canada is a password-protected section
of gmcanada.com where you can save information
on GM vehicles, get personalized offers, and
use handy tools and forms with greater ease.
Online Owner Center
(United States only)
The Owner Center is a resource for your GM
ownership needs. Specific vehicle information
can be found in one place.
Here are a few of the valuable tools and services
you will have access to:
The Online Owner Center allows you to:
− My Showroom: Find and save information on
vehicles and current offers in your area.
− My Dealers/Retailers: Save details such as
address and phone number for each of
your preferred GM Dealers or Retailers.
− My Driveway: Receive service reminders and
helpful advice on owning and maintaining
your vehicle.
− My Preferences: Manage your profile,
subscribe to E-News and use tools and forms
with greater ease.
• Get e-mail service reminders.
• Access information about your specific
vehicle, including tips and videos and
an electronic version of this owner manual.
• Keep track of your vehicle’s service history
and maintenance schedule.
• Find GM dealers for service nationwide.
• Receive special promotions and privileges
only available to members.
Refer to www.MyGMLink.com on the web for
updated information and to register your vehicle.
To sign up to My GM Canada, visit the My GM
Canada section within www.gmcanada.com.
431
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Roadside Assistance: 1-800-CHEV-USA
(243-8872)
Fax Number: 313-381-0022
Customer Assistance for Text
Telephone (TTY) Users
To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing,
or speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones
(TTYs), Chevrolet has TTY equipment available at
its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user in
the U.S. can communicate with Chevrolet by
dialing: 1-800-833-CHEV (2438). (TTY users in
Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.)
From Puerto Rico:
1-800-496-9992 (English)
1-800-496-9993 (Spanish)
Fax Number: 313-381-0022
From U.S. Virgin Islands:
1-800-496-9994
Fax Number: 313-381-0022
Canada — Customer Assistance
Customer Assistance Offices
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Chevrolet encourages customers to call the toll-free
number for assistance. However, if a customer
wishes to write or e-mail Chevrolet, the letter should
be addressed to:
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
www.gmcanada.com
United States — Customer Assistance
1-800-263-3777 (English)
1-800-263-7854 (French)
1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone
devices (TTYs))
Chevrolet Motor Division
Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33170
Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
www.Chevrolet.com
1-800-222-1020
1-800-833-2438 (For Text
Telephone devices (TTYs))
432
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Overseas — Customer Assistance
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program
Please contact the local General Motors
Business Unit.
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 reimburse you up to $1,000 of the cost of
eligible aftermarket adaptive equipment required
for your vehicle, such as hand controls or a
wheelchair/scooter lift.
C.P. 11910, Mexico, D.F.
01-800-508-0000
Long Distance: 011-52-53 29 0 800
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.
General Motors of Canada also has a Mobility
Program. Call 1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483)
for details. TTY users call 1-800-263-3830.
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The following services are provided in the U.S.
during the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty period and,
in Canada, during the Base Warranty coverage
period of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty, up to
a maximum coverage of $100.
Roadside Assistance Program
In the U.S., call 1-800-CHEV-USA
(1-800-243-8872)
In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800
• Fuel Delivery: Delivery of enough fuel for the
customer to get to the nearest service station
(approximately $5 in the U.S. and 10 litres
in Canada). Service to provide diesel may be
restricted. For safety reasons, propane
and other alternative fuels will not be provided
through this service.
Service available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
As the owner of a new Chevrolet vehicle, you are
automatically enrolled in the Chevrolet Roadside
Assistance program. This value-added service is
intended to provide you with peace of mind as you
drive in the city or travel the open road.
Who is Covered?
• Lock-out Service: To ensure security,
the driver must present the vehicle registration
and personal ID before lock-out service is
provided. Lock-out service will be covered at
no charge if you are unable to gain entry
into your vehicle. If your vehicle will not start,
Roadside Assistance will arrange to have
your vehicle towed to the nearest authorized
dealership. In the U.S., replacement keys
made at the customer’s expense will be
covered within 10 miles (16 km).
Roadside Assistance coverage is for the vehicle
operator, regardless of ownership. A person driving
this vehicle without the consent of the owner is
not eligible for coverage.
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We will make every attempt to send your
personalized trip routing as quickly as possible,
but it is best to allow three weeks before your
planned departure date. Trip routing requests
will be limited to six per calendar year.
• Emergency Tow From a Public Roadway or
Highway: Tow to the nearest dealership for
warranty service or in the event of a
vehicle-disabling accident. Winch-out
assistance when the vehicle is mired in sand,
mud, or snow.
• Trip Interruption Benefits and Assistance:
In the event of a warranty related vehicle
disablement, while en route and over
• Flat Tire Change: If your vehicle has a spare
tire, installation of the tire in good condition
will be covered at no charge. The customer is
responsible for the repair or replacement of
the tire if not covered by a warrantable failure.
250 kilometres from original point of departure,
you may qualify for trip interruption expense
assistance. This assistance covers reasonable
reimbursement of up to a maximum of
$500 (Canadian) for (A) meals (maximum of
$50/day), (B) lodging (maximum of $100/night)
and (C) alternate ground transportation
(maximum of $40/day). This benefit is to assist
you with some of the unplanned expense you
may incur while waiting for your vehicle to be
repaired.
Pre-authorization, original detailed receipts and
a copy of the repair order are required.
Once authorization has been given, your
advisor will help you make any necessary
arrangements and explain how to claim for trip
interruption expense assistance.
• Jump Start: No-start occurrences which
require a battery jump start will be covered at
no charge.
Additional Services for Canadian
Customers
• Trip Routing Service: Upon Request,
Roadside Assistance will send you detailed,
computer-personalized maps, highlighting your
choice of either the most direct route or the
most scenic route to your destination,
anywhere in North America, along with any
helpful travel information we may have
pertaining to your trip. To request this service,
please call us toll-free at 1-800-268-6800.
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For prompt and efficient assistance when calling,
please provide the following to the Roadside
Assistance Representative:
• Alternative Service: There may be times,
when Roadside Assistance cannot provide
timely assistance, your advisor may authorize
you to secure local emergency road service,
and you will be reimbursed up to $100 upon
submission of the original receipt to Roadside
Assistance.
• Your name, home address, and home
telephone number.
• Telephone number of your location.
• Location of the vehicle.
• Model, year, color, and license plate number.
• Odometer reading, Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN), and delivery date of the vehicle.
In many instances, mechanical failures are
covered under Chevrolet’s Bumper-to-Bumper
warranty, and the duration of the Base Warranty
Coverage for Canadian customers of the new
Vehicle Limited Warranty. However, any cost for
parts and labor for non-warranty repairs are
the responsibility of the driver.
• Description of the problem.
While we hope you never have the occasion to
use our service, it is added security while traveling
for you and your family. Remember, we are
only a phone call away. U.S. customers call
Chevrolet Roadside Assistance: 1-800-CHEV-USA
(1-800-243-8872), text telephone (TTY) users,
call 1-888-889-2438, Canadian customers
call 1-800-268-6800.
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Chevrolet and General Motors of Canada Limited
reserve the right to limit services or reimbursement
to an owner or driver when, in their sole discretion,
the claims become excessive in frequency or type
of occurrence.
Courtesy Transportation
To enhance your ownership experience, we and
our participating dealers are proud to offer
Courtesy Transportation, a customer support
program for new vehicles.
Roadside Assistance is not part of or included in the
coverage provided by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty. Chevrolet and General Motors of Canada
Limited reserve the right to make any changes or
discontinue the Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification.
For warranty repairs during the Bumper-to-Bumper
(U.S.) or Base Warranty Coverage period
(Canada), provided by the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty, interim transportation may be available
under the Courtesy Transportation program.
Several courtesy transportation options are
available to assist in reducing your inconvenience
when warranty repairs are required.
Towing and Road Service Exclusions
Specifically excluded from Roadside Assistance
coverage are towing or services for vehicles
operated on a non-public roadway or highway,
fines, impound towing caused by a violation
of local, Municipal, State, Provincial, or Federal
law, and mounting, dismounting or changing
of snow tires, chains, or other traction devices.
Courtesy Transportation is not a part of the New
Vehicle Limited Warranty and is available only
at participating dealers. A separate booklet entitled
“Warranty and Owner Assistance Information”
furnished with each new vehicle provides detailed
warranty coverage information.
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Scheduling Service Appointments
Transportation Options
When your vehicle requires warranty service,
you should contact your dealer and request an
appointment. By scheduling a service appointment
and advising your service consultant of your
transportation needs, your dealer can help
minimize your inconvenience.
Warranty service can generally be completed
while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait,
GM helps to minimize your inconvenience by
providing several transportation options.
Depending on the circumstances, your dealer can
offer you one of the following:
If your vehicle cannot be scheduled into the
service 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.
Shuttle Service
Shuttle service is the preferred means of offering
Courtesy Transportation and participating
dealers can provide you with shuttle service to get
you to your destination with minimal interruption
of your daily schedule. This includes one-way
or round trip shuttle service within reasonable time
and distance parameters for the dealer’s area.
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.
Public Transportation or Fuel
Reimbursement
If your vehicle requires overnight warranty
repairs, and public transportation is used as
‘shuttle service,’ the reimbursement is limited to
the associated shuttle allowance and must
be supported by original receipts.
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In addition, for U.S. customers, should you arrange
transportation through a friend or relative, limited
reimbursement for reasonable fuel expenses may
be available. Claim amounts should reflect actual
costs and be supported by original receipts.
Additional Program Information
All program options, such as shuttle service, may
not be available at every dealer. Please contact
your dealer for specific information about
availability. All Courtesy Transportation
arrangements will be administered by appropriate
dealer personnel.
Courtesy Rental Vehicle
Your dealer may arrange to provide you with a
courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for
a rental vehicle that you obtain if your vehicle is
kept for an overnight warranty repair. Rental
reimbursement will be limited and must be
supported by original receipts. This requires that
you sign and complete a rental agreement
and meet state/provincial, local, and rental vehicle
provider requirements. Requirements vary and
may include minimum age requirements, insurance
coverage, credit card, etc. You are responsible
for fuel usage charges and may also be
General Motors reserves the right to unilaterally
modify, change or discontinue Courtesy
Transportation at any time and to resolve all
questions of claim eligibility pursuant to the terms
and conditions described herein at its sole
discretion.
responsible for taxes, levies, usage fees,
excessive mileage, or rental usage beyond the
completion of the repair.
Generally it is not possible to provide a like-vehicle
as a courtesy rental.
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safety belt usage, airbag readiness, airbag
performance, and the severity of a collision.
This information has been used to improve vehicle
crash performance and may be 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.
Vehicle Data Collection and Event
Data Recorders
Your vehicle, like other modern motor vehicles,
has a number of sophisticated computer systems
that monitor and control several aspects of the
vehicle’s performance. Your vehicle uses on-board
vehicle computers to monitor emission control
components to optimize fuel economy, to monitor
conditions for airbag deployment and, if the
vehicle has the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), to
provide anti-lock braking and to help the driver
control the vehicle in difficult driving situations.
Some information may be stored during regular
operations to facilitate repair of detected
malfunctions; other information is stored only
in a crash event by computer systems,
To read this information, special equipment is
needed and access to the vehicle or the device
that stores the data is required. GM will not access
information about a crash event or share it with
others other than:
• with the consent of the vehicle owner or, if the
vehicle is leased, with the consent of the
lessee,
such as those commonly called Event Data
Recorders (EDR).
• in response to an official request of police or
similar government office,
In a crash event, computer systems, such as the
airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)
in your vehicle may record information about the
condition of the vehicle and how it was operated,
such as data related to engine speed, brake
application, throttle position, vehicle speed,
• as part of GM’s defense of litigation through
the discovery process, or
• as required by law.
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In addition, once GM collects or receives data,
GM may:
Collision Damage Repair
If your vehicle is involved in a collision and it is
damaged, have the damage repaired by a qualified
technician using the proper equipment and quality
replacement parts. Poorly performed collision
repairs will diminish your vehicle’s resale value, and
safety performance can be compromised in
subsequent collisions.
• use the data for GM research needs,
• make it available for research where
appropriate confidentiality is to be maintained
and need is shown, or
• share summary data which is not tied to a
specific vehicle with non-GM organizations
for research purposes.
Collision Parts
Others, such as law enforcement, may have
access to the special equipment that can read the
information if they have access to the vehicle
or the device that stores the data.
If your vehicle has OnStar®, please check the
OnStar® subscription service agreement or manual
for information on its operations and data
collection.
Genuine GM Collision parts are new parts made
with the same materials and construction methods
as the parts with which your vehicle was
originally built. Genuine GM Collision parts are
your best choice to assure that your vehicle’s
designed appearance, durability, and safety are
preserved. The use of Genuine GM parts can help
maintain your GM New Vehicle Warranty.
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Recycled original equipment parts may also be
used for repair. These parts are typically removed
from vehicles that were total losses in prior
accidents. In most cases, the parts being recycled
are from undamaged sections of the vehicle.
A recycled original equipment GM part, may be an
acceptable choice to maintain your vehicle’s
originally designed appearance and safety
performance, however, the history of these parts
is not known. Such parts are not covered by
your GM New Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any
related failures are not covered by that warranty.
Repair Facility
GM also recommends that you choose a collision
repair facility that meets your needs before you
ever need collision repairs. Your GM dealer
may have a collision repair center with GM-trained
technicians and state of the art equipment, or
be able to recommend a collision repair center that
has GM-trained technicians and comparable
equipment.
Insuring Your Vehicle
Protect your investment in your GM vehicle with
comprehensive and collision insurance coverage.
There are significant differences in the quality
of coverage afforded by various insurance policy
terms. Many insurance policies provide reduced
protection to your GM vehicle by limiting
compensation for damage repairs by using
aftermarket collision parts. Some insurance
companies will not specify aftermarket collision
parts. When purchasing insurance, we recommend
that you assure your vehicle will be repaired
with GM original equipment collision parts. If such
insurance coverage is not available from your
current insurance carrier, consider switching
to another insurance carrier.
Aftermarket collision parts are also available. These
are made by companies other than GM and may
not have been tested for your vehicle. As a result,
these parts may fit poorly, exhibit premature
durability/corrosion problems, and may not perform
properly in subsequent collisions. Aftermarket parts
are not covered by your GM New Vehicle Limited
Warranty, and any vehicle failure related to such
parts are not covered by that warranty.
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If your vehicle is leased, the leasing company
may require you to have insurance that assures
repairs with Genuine GM Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) parts or Genuine
Manufacturer replacement parts. Read your lease
carefully, as you may be charged at the end of
your lease for poor quality repairs.
• Give only the necessary and requested
information to police and other parties involved
in the accident. Do not discuss your personal
condition, mental frame of mind, or anything
unrelated to the accident. This will help guard
against post-accident legal action.
• If you need roadside assistance, call
GM Roadside Assistance. See Roadside
information.
If an Accident Occurs
Here is what to do if you are involved in an
accident.
• If your vehicle cannot be driven, know where
the towing service will be taking it. Get a
card from the tow truck operator or write down
the driver’s name, the service’s name, and
the phone number.
• Try to relax and then check to make sure you
are all right. If you are uninjured, make sure
that no one else in your vehicle, or the
other vehicle, is injured.
• If there has been an injury, call 911 for help.
Do not leave the scene of an accident until
all matters have been taken care of. Move
your vehicle only if its position puts you
in danger or you are instructed to move it by a
police officer.
• Remove any valuables from your vehicle before
it is towed away. Make sure this includes your
insurance information and registration if you
keep these items in your vehicle.
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• Gather the important information you will need
from the other driver. Things like name,
address, phone number, driver’s license
number, vehicle license plate, vehicle make,
model and model year, Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN), insurance company and policy
number, and a general description of the
damage to the other vehicle.
• Choose a reputable collision repair facility for
your vehicle. Whether you select a GM dealer
or a private collision repair facility to fix the
damage, make sure you are comfortable with
them. Remember, you will have to feel
comfortable with their work for a long time.
• Once you have an estimate, read it carefully
and make sure you understand what work will
be performed on your vehicle. If you have a
question, ask for an explanation. Reputable
shops welcome this opportunity.
• If possible, call your insurance company from
the scene of the accident. They will walk you
through the information they will need. If they
ask for a police report, phone or go to the police
department headquarters the next day and you
can get a copy of the report for a nominal fee. In
some states/provinces with “no fault” insurance
laws, a report may not be necessary. This is
especially true if there are no injuries and both
vehicles are driveable.
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Remember if your vehicle is leased you may be
obligated to have the vehicle repaired with
Genuine GM parts, even if your insurance
coverage does not pay the full cost.
Managing the Vehicle Damage Repair
Process
In the event that your vehicle requires damage
repairs, GM recommends that you take an active
role in its repair. If you have a pre-determined
repair facility of choice, take your vehicle there, or
have it towed there. Specify to the facility that
any required replacement collision parts be original
equipment parts, either new Genuine GM parts
or recycled original GM parts. Remember, recycled
parts will not be covered by your GM vehicle
warranty.
If another party’s insurance company is paying for
the repairs, you are not obligated to accept a
repair valuation based on that insurance
company’s collision policy repair limits, as you
have no contractual limits with that company. In
such cases, you can have control of the repair and
parts choices as long as cost stays within
reasonable limits.
Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you must
live with the repair. Depending on your policy
limits, your insurance company may initially value
the repair using aftermarket parts. Discuss this
with your repair professional, and insist on
Genuine GM parts.
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Reporting Safety Defects to the
Canadian Government
If you live in Canada, and you believe that your
vehicle has a safety defect, you should
immediately notify Transport Canada, in addition
to notifying General Motors of Canada Limited.
You may call them at 1-800-333-0510 or write to:
Reporting Safety Defects
Reporting Safety Defects to the
United States Government
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately inform the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),
in addition to notifying General Motors.
Transport Canada
Road Safety Branch
2780 Sheffield Road
Ottawa, Ontario K1B 3V9
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open
an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a
recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA
cannot become involved in individual problems
between you, your dealer, or General Motors.
Reporting Safety Defects to
General Motors
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport
Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope
you will notify General Motors. Please call the
Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center at
1-800-222-1020, or write:
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or write to:
Chevrolet Motor Division
Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33170
Administrator, NHTSA
400 Seventh Street, SW.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
You can also obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety from http://www.safercar.gov.
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In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777
(English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:
Service Bulletins
Service Bulletins give technical service information
needed to knowledgeably service General
Motors cars and trucks. Each bulletin contains
instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service
of your vehicle.
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
In Canada, the service bulletin reference number
can be obtained by contacting your General
Motors dealer or by calling 1-800-GM-DRIVE
(1-800-463-7483). This reference number is
needed to order the service bulletin from
Helm, Inc.
Service Publications Ordering
Information
Service Manuals
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair
information on engines, transmission, axle
suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $6.00 US + Processing Fee
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer
Case Unit Repair Manual
This manual provides information on unit repair
service procedures, adjustments, and
specifications for GM transmissions, transaxles,
and transfer cases.
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ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Eastern Time
Owner Information
Owner publications are written specifically for
owners and intended to provide basic operational
information about the vehicle. The owner manual
will include the Maintenance Schedule for all
models.
For Credit Card Orders Only
(VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit Helm, Inc. on
the World Wide Web at: www.helminc.com
In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner Manual,
and Warranty Booklet.
Or you can write to:
Helm, Incorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
RETAIL SELL PRICE:
$35.00 US + Processing Fee
Prices are subject to change without notice and
without incurring obligation. Allow ample time
for delivery.
Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only.
RETAIL SELL PRICE:
$25.00 US + Processing Fee
Note to Canadian Customers: All listed prices are
quoted in U.S. funds. Canadian residents are
to make checks payable in U.S. funds.
Current and Past Model Order Forms
Technical Service Bulletins and Manuals are
available for current and past model GM vehicles.
To request an order form, please specify year
and model name of the vehicle.
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Audio System(s) .......................................... 213
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Child Restraints (cont.)
C
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Customer Assistance Information (cont.)
452
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Electrical System (cont.)
453
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Fuel (cont.)
F
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H
Hazard Warning Flashers ............................ 150
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Light (cont.)
L
Labeling, Tire Sidewall ................................. 355
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M
457
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O
458
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Q
459
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Seats (cont.)
S
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461
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Tires (cont.)
Inflation - Tire Pressure ............................ 362
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V
463
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464
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