1999 Cadillac Deville Owners Manual

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Next Generation frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating frontal air bag. But even these air bags must inflate very quickly if they are to do their job and comply with federal regulations. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag systems:

CAUTION:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. All air bags -- even Next Generation air bags -- are designed to work with safety belts but don’t replace them.

CAUTION: (Continued)

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CAUTION: (Continued)

Next Generation frontal air bags for the driver and right front passenger are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. And, for unrestrained occupants, Next Generation air bags may provide less protection in frontal crashes than more forceful air bags have provided in the past. The side impact air bags for the driver and right front passenger are designed to inflate only in moderate to severe crashes where something hits the side of your vehicle. They aren’t 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’s an air bag for that person.

CAUTION:

Both frontal and side impact air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. This is true even with Next Generation frontal air bags. Safety belts help keep you in position for air bag inflation before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with Next Generation frontal air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle. Front occupants should not lean on or sleep against the door.

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There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG.

The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. This is true even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags 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 air bag 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. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children” and see the caution labels on the sunvisors and the right front passenger’s safety belt.

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How the Air Bag Systems Work

Where are the air bags? The driver’s frontal air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

The right front passenger’s frontal air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

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The driver’s side impact air bag is in the driver’s door. The right front passenger’s side impact air bag is in the passenger’s door.

CAUTION:

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If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.

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When should an air bag inflate? The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The frontal air bags are designed to inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags are not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. The driver’s and right front passenger’s side impact air bags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes involving a front door. A side impact air bag 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 air bags are not

designed to inflate in frontal or near-frontal impacts, rollovers or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. A side impact air bag will only deploy on the side of the vehicle that is struck. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. For frontal air bags, inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal and near-frontal impacts. For side impact air bags, inflation is determined by the location of the impact and how quickly the side of the vehicle deforms.

What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. For both frontal and side impact air bags, the sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel, instrument panel and front doors.

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How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But the frontal air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts, and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Side impact air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including frontal or near frontal collisions, rollovers, and rear impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air bags 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 air bags, and only in moderate to severe side collisions for the driver’s and right front passenger’s side impact air bags.

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What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, the door for the driver and right front passenger’s side impact air bags -- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is 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 can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door.

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D Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag systems. Improper service can mean that an air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

NOTICE:

If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, or the air bag covering on the driver’s and right front passenger’s door, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel, both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag, or both the air bag module and door panel for the driver’s and right front passenger’s side impact air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.

Your vehicle has a feature that will automatically unlock the doors and turn the interior lamps on when the frontal air bags inflate (if battery power is available). You can lock the doors again and turn the interior lamps off by using the door lock and interior lamp controls. In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. D Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After an air bag inflates, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

D Your vehicle has a crash sensing and diagnostic

module, which records information about the air bag and related systems. It records information about the readiness of the air bag systems, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment or in a near-deployment crash. Some modules also record speed, engine RPM, brake and throttle data.

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Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag systems in several places around your vehicle. Your dealer and the Cadillac Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag systems. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

CAUTION:

For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag systems. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

The air bag systems do not need regular maintenance.

Center Passenger Position

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Lap Belt If your vehicle has a front split seat and a rear bench seat, someone can sit in the center positions.

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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 isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

When you sit in a center 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.

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Rear Seat Passengers It’s 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 aren’t 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. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

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1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t 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.

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3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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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.

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’d 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’s a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. 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.

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Smaller Children and Babies

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. This is true even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags 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 air bag 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.

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Infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because an infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a frontal crash, an infant in a rear-facing restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of the infant’s body, the back and shoulders. A baby should be secured in an appropriate infant restraint. This is so important that many hospitals today won’t release a newborn infant to its parents unless there is an infant restraint available for the baby’s first trip in a motor vehicle.

CAUTION:

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or infant restraint.

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CAUTION: (Continued)

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

CAUTION:

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash

CAUTION: (Continued)

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Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. Q: What are the different types of add-on

child restraints?

A: Add-on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.

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An infant car bed (A) is a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle. It’s an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. With an infant car bed, make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle.

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A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear-facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash. Some infant seats come in two parts -- the base stays secured in the vehicle and the seat part is removable.

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A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward-facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age. One type, a convertible restraint, is designed to be used either as a rear-facing infant seat or a forward-facing child seat.

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A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Booster seats with shields use lap-only belts; however, booster seats without shields use lap-shoulder belts. Booster seats can also help a child to see out the window.

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When choosing a 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. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s manual and the child restraint instructions are important, so if either one of these is not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.

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Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

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CAUTION:

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

Wherever you install it, 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.

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Top Strap

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Canadian law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you. This work will be done for you free of charge. Or, you may install the anchor yourself using the instructions provided in the kit.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

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.

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You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Put the restraint on the seat.

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re 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.

5. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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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. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position

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CAUTION:

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

You’ll be using the lap belt. 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.

See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

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1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push

down on the child restraint. If you’re 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.

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6. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

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CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

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4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air

bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.)

2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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5. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the

retractor to set the lock.

6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the

retractor while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

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Larger Children

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If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. D Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in

a crash.

D Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

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CAUTION:

Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but

be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.

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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.

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Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.

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Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

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- NOTES

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Section 2 Features and Controls

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Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.

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Keys Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Trunk Theft Theft-Deterrent System (If Equipped) PASS-KeyR II New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Positions Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust

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Running Your Engine While You’re Parked Windows Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Sun Visors Cellular Telephone (Option) Sunroof (Option) Universal Transmitter (Option) The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Driver Information Center (DIC)

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Keys

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. If they turned the ignition to RUN and moved the shift lever out of PARK (P), that would release the parking brake. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.

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When a new vehicle is delivered, the dealer removes the plug from the door key. The plug has a code on it that tells the dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. The ignition key has a bar code tag attached to it rather than a knock out plug. Your dealer or qualified locksmith can make extra ignition keys by reading the bar code tag. Keep the bar code tag and the door key plugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you will be able to have new ones made using the plug or bar code tag.

Ignition Key

Door/Locks Key

NOTICE:

The square key is for the ignition only. It has a resistor pellet which is part of the vehicle’s PASS-KeyR II system. The oval key is for the doors and all other locks.

Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. You can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside and you may have to damage your vehicle to get in. Be sure you have extra keys.

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If your vehicle is equipped with the theft-deterrent system, you must unlock the doors with the key or remote keyless entry transmitter to avoid setting off the alarm.

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Press the front of the manual lock lever forward to lock the door from the inside. To unlock the door, press the lever rearward.

Door Locks

CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use either the door key or the remote keyless entry transmitter.

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Central Door Unlocking System Your vehicle will have this feature if it is equipped with the theft-deterrent system. When unlocking either front door, you can unlock the other doors by holding the key in the turned position for a few seconds or by quickly turning the door key twice in the lock cylinder. Power Door Locks

Press the power door lock button to lock or unlock all the doors at once. The rear power door locks provide a lock only function as a convenience feature. For safety reasons, they will not unlock the doors.

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Automatic Door Locks Close your doors and turn on the ignition. Every time you move the shift lever out of PARK (P), all of the doors will lock. The doors will unlock every time you stop the vehicle and move the shift lever back into PARK (P). If someone needs to get out while your vehicle is not in PARK (P), have that person use the manual or power lock. When the door is closed again, it will not lock automatically. Use the manual or power lock to lock the door again. If you need to lock the doors before shifting out of PARK (P), use the manual or power lock button to lock the doors. Programmable Automatic Door Locks (If Equipped) With the ignition in RUN, the door locks can be programmed through prompts displayed by the Driver Information Center (DIC). These prompts allow the driver to choose various lock settings. For programming information, see “Memory and Personalization Features” in the Index.

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Rear Door Security Locks

Your vehicle is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside.

To use this lock: 1. Move the lever on the door all the way up to the

ENGAGED position.

2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thing to the other rear door lock. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use.

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When you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on: 1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2. Then open the door from the outside. To cancel the rear door lock: 1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside. 2. Move the lever all the way down. 3. Do the same for the other rear door. The rear door locks will now work normally. Anti-Lockout Feature Leaving your key in any ignition position with any door open will disable the use of the power door lock buttons as well as the lock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. If you close the doors, you can lock them using the remote keyless entry transmitter. It is always recommended that you remove the ignition key when locking your vehicle. Note: The anti-lockout feature can be overridden by holding the driver’s power door lock button for three seconds or longer.

Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, open the door, set the locks from the inside, get out and close the door. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System

If your vehicle has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors, or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Your remote keyless entry transmitter operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry transmitter. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: D Check to determine if battery replacement is

necessary. See the instructions that follow.

D Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.

D Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be

blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.

D If you’re still having trouble, see your dealer or a

qualified technician for service.

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Operation

When you press this symbol to unlock the driver’s door, the parking lamps on your vehicle will blink twice. (You can program your vehicle so the parking lamps will not flash. For more information, see “Lock/Unlock Confirmation” in the Index.) Pressing this symbol again within five seconds will unlock the other doors. Pressing this symbol will also disarm the theft-deterrent system (if equipped) and turn on the interior lamps at night.

When you press this symbol to lock the doors, the parking lamps will blink once. (You can program your vehicle so the parking lamps will not flash. For more information, see “Lock/Unlock Confirmation” in the Index.) This also arms the theft-deterrent system (if equipped).

Press this symbol to open the trunk. (The VALET

lockout button must be off for this feature to work.)

Press this button to open the fuel door. (The VALET

lockout button must be off for this feature to work.) The remote keyless entry transmitter can also be used to recall the memory settings for up to two drivers. For more information, see “Memory Seat and Mirrors” in the Index.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters matched to it. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about four years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

NOTICE:

When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.

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1. Use the round end of the door key or a coin to pry

open the transmitter.

2. Once the transmitter is separated, use a pencil (or

similar object) to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object.

3. Replace the battery. Insert the new battery as the

instructions under the cover indicate.

4. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure

no moisture can enter.

5. Resynchronize the transmitter.

See “Resynchronization” following.

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Resynchronization Pressing the remote keyless entry transmitter buttons numerous times (approximately 250 times) out of the vehicle’s operating range may cause the transmitter not to work. Replacing the battery and pressing the transmitter buttons out of range will also cause the transmitter not to work. If only the fuel door button works, the transmitter needs to be resynchronized to the receiver. Do this by pressing and holding both the lock and unlock buttons on the transmitter for about eight seconds. You must be within range of the vehicle. Once the transmitter has been resynchronized, the horn will sound and the exterior lamps will flash once. The system should now operate properly. See your dealer for service if your transmitter doesn’t work properly.

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Trunk

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid: D Make sure all other windows are shut. D Turn the fan on your heating or cooling

system to its highest speed with the setting on AUTO or ECON and the temperature between 65_ F (18_ C) and 85_ F (29_ C). That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. D If you have air outlets on or under the

instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Trunk Lock Release

Trunk Storage System (Option)

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To use this feature, your vehicle must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and the VALET lockout button must be off. Press the trunk release button, located on the headlamp control panel on the left side of the instrument panel, to open the trunk.

You can also press the trunk button on the remote keyless entry transmitter to access the trunk compartment. To disable the use of this feature, see “Valet Lockout Button” in the Index.

The optional trunk storage system can be used to organize many different items inside the trunk. The storage compartment (A) is located on top of the spare tire cover (B).

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To install the storage system: 1. Pull the carpeting from the floor of the trunk. Turn the retainer (center dial) on the compact spare tire cover counterclockwise to remove it.

2. Place the trunk storage system on the center of the

trunk floor (the cut out portion of the storage system should be facing the rear of the vehicle).

3. Open the storage system by pulling up on the handle

located in the carpeted area. This allows the unit to unfold into place. Unfold the divider walls and move them into the retention slots.

4. Remove the rectangular access panel from the floor

of the storage system. The access panel should unsnap by hand.

5. Center the storage system access hole over the area

where the spare tire is secured by the retainer. Position the storage system as needed and then secure it with the retainer. 6. Replace the access panel. 7. Attach the removable net to the slots located on the front of the divider walls and attach the hooks to the holes on each side of the storage system.

Once in place, the storage system can be moved forward or rearward for convenience and easy access of stored items. The following steps explain how to remove the trunk storage system for cleaning or in case you need to access the spare tire. Follow all of these steps if the storage system is in the closed position. Begin with Step 2 if the system is already open. 1. Open the storage system by pulling up on the handle

located in the carpeted area. This allows the unit to unfold into place. Unfold the divider walls and move them into the retention slots.

2. Remove the rectangular access panel from the floor

of the storage system. The access panel should unsnap by hand.

3. Center the storage system access hole over the area

where the spare tire is secured by the retainer. Position the storage system as needed and then remove the retainer (turn the retainer counterclockwise to remove it).

4. Replace the access panel and remove the

storage system.

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Trunk Lid Automatic Pull-Down Feature

CAUTION:

Your car has an automatic pull-down feature that helps close the trunk electronically. Your fingers can be trapped under the trunk lid as it goes down. Your fingers could be injured, and you would need someone to help you free them. Keep your fingers away from the trunk lid as you close it and as it is going down.

With the automatic pull-down feature, you never have to slam the trunk lid in order to close the trunk. Instead, gently lower the trunk lid until it is nearly shut -- the automatic pull-down unit will take over and lock the trunk firmly.

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A. Trunk Lid B. Lever If for some reason the trunk lid (A) will not close, it may be because the trunk pull-down unit was accidentally bumped. Even though the trunk lid remains open, the motor from the pull-down unit has already cycled down. If this happens, press the lever (B) on the trunk lid. The pull-down unit motor will reset itself, allowing the trunk lid to close when lowered.

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Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? D If possible, park in a busy, well lit area. D Put your valuables in a storage area, like your

trunk or glove box. Be sure to close and lock the storage area.

D Close all windows. D Lock the glove box. D Lock all the doors except the driver’s. D Then take the door key and remote keyless entry

transmitter with you.

Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors. Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

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Theft-Deterrent System (If Equipped)

If the ignition is off and any door is open, the SECURITY light will flash, reminding you to activate the system.

The light will also flash if the battery has been disconnected and reconnected. To arm the system, do the following: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door using the power door lock or the

remote keyless entry transmitter. The SECURITY light should come on and stay on.

3. Close all the doors. The SECURITY light should go

off within about 30 seconds.

The horn will sound and the lamps will flash for about 30 seconds when the door or trunk is opened without the key or the remote keyless entry transmitter. The horn also sounds if the locks are damaged.

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Remember, the theft-deterrent system won’t activate if you lock the doors with a key or use the manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock button or the remote keyless entry transmitter. To avoid activating the alarm by accident: D Always unlock a door with a key or use the remote

keyless entry transmitter. (Pressing the unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter disables the theft-deterrent system.) Unlocking a door any other way will activate the alarm. Cycling the ignition without disarming the theft-deterrent system will also activate the alarm.

D The vehicle should be locked with the door key after the doors are closed if you don’t want to activate the theft-deterrent system.

If you activate the alarm by accident, unlock any door with your key. You can also turn off the alarm by using the unlock button of the remote keyless entry transmitter. The alarm won’t stop if you try to unlock a door any other way.

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Testing the Alarm 1. From inside the vehicle, roll down the window, then

get out of the vehicle, keeping the door open.

2. From outside of the vehicle, with the door open, lock

the vehicle using the power door lock or the remote keyless entry transmitter and close the door. Wait 30 seconds until the SECURITY light goes off.

3. Reach in and unlock the door using the manual lock

and open the door. The horn will sound and the headlamps will flash.

If the alarm does not sound when it should, check to see if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. If the fuse does not need to be replaced, you may need to have your vehicle serviced. To reduce the possibility of theft, always activate the theft-deterrent system when leaving your vehicle.

Valet Lockout Button

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Pressing the VALET lockout button located inside the glove box to ON will disable the use of the power trunk, fuel door and garage door openers. Pressing this button again will make these features reusable. Locking the glove box with the door key will also help to secure your vehicle.

Note: The remote keyless entry transmitter can’t be used to open the trunk or fuel door if the VALET lockout button is in the ON position.

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PASS-KeyR II

Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key II theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key II is a passive system. The system is armed when the key is removed from the ignition.

PASS-Key II uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that is read by the system in your vehicle. If the key resistor matches the code stored in the vehicle system, the vehicle’s fuel and starting systems will be enabled. If an incorrect key is used, the vehicle’s fuel and starting systems are disabled for three minutes. Additional attempts during this lockout period will not start the car, even with the correct key.

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If the engine does not start and the STARTING DISABLED REMOVE KEY message is displayed in the Driver Information Center, your key should be checked for damage. Starting may be attempted with an undamaged key immediately. See your dealer or a locksmith for key service. If the STARTING DISABLED REMOVE KEY and WAIT 3 MINUTES messages are displayed, the key should be cleaned. After three minutes, try again. A START CAR message will appear at this time. If the engine still does not start, wait three minutes and try a duplicate key. At this time, fuses should be checked (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the engine does not start with the duplicate key, your vehicle needs service. See your dealer for service. If the THEFT SYSTEM PROBLEM, CAR MAY NOT START message is displayed during vehicle operation, a fault has been detected in the system. This means the PASS-Key II system is disabled and is not protecting the vehicle. The vehicle usually restarts. See your dealer for service. If an ignition key is lost or damaged, see your dealer or a locksmith to have a new key made.

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New Vehicle “Break-In”

Ignition Positions

NOTICE:

CAUTION:

Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: D Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts.

D Avoid making hard stops for the first

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in the vehicle with children.

200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t 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.

D Don’t tow a trailer during break-in.

See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

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With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five different positions. ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. To get into ACCESSORY, push in the key and turn it toward you. The steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key. LOCK (B): Before you put the key in, the ignition will be in LOCK. This is the only position in which you can remove the key. This position locks the ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft-deterrent feature.

NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.

OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK does. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being pushed). RUN (D): This position is for driving. START (E): This position starts the engine. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) The following accessories on your vehicle may be used for up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned from RUN to OFF: D Radio D Power Windows D Sunroof Power to these accessories stops after 10 minutes or if any door is opened. If you want power for another 10 minutes, turn the ignition key to RUN, then back to OFF, then to LOCK. Always leave your key in LOCK when using RAP. If you leave your key in any other position than LOCK, your battery will discharge prematurely.

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Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE:

Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in

START for about three seconds at a time until your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.

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3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing.

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 don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

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A. Engine Oil Dipstick Location B. Engine Coolant Heater Cord C. Transaxle Dipstick/Fluid Fill Location In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll 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.

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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 don’t, 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’ll 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 electrical cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine, behind the transaxle dipstick/fluid fill location (C) and next to the engine.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

CAUTION:

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

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Automatic Transaxle Operation The automatic transaxle may have either a shift lever located on the steering column or on the console between the seats. There are several different positions for the shift lever.

Console Shifter

Column Shifter

PARK (P): This position locks the front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start the engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

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CAUTION:

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button on the floor shift console models as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever on floor shift console models.) See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, the engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

CAUTION:

Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle has stopped.

NOTICE:

Also use this gear to rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle. See “Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index for additional information.

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Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

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OVERDRIVE (B): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: D Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push the

accelerator pedal about halfway down.

D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the

accelerator all the way down. The transaxle will shift down to the next gear and have more power.

THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than OVERDRIVE (B). Here are examples for using THIRD (3) instead of OVERDRIVE (B): D When driving on hilly, winding roads. D When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears.

NOTICE:

If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or if it doesn’t seem to shift gears as you accelerate, something may be wrong with a transaxle system sensor. If you drive very far that way, your vehicle can be damaged. So if this happens, have your vehicle serviced right away. Until then, you can use SECOND (2) when you are driving less than 35 mph (55 km/h) and OVERDRIVE (B) for higher speeds.

D When going down a steep hill. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

NOTICE:

Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your engine.

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FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. (If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.)

NOTICE:

If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transaxle. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could cause overheating and damage the transaxle. Use your brakes to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

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Parking Brake

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Hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot and push the parking brake pedal down with your left foot to set the parking brake. If the ignition is on, the PARK BRAKE indicator light should come on. If it doesn’t, you need to have your vehicle serviced.

If the parking brake has not been fully released and you try to drive off with the parking brake on, the PARK BRAKE indicator light comes on and stays on. See “Parking Brake Indicator Light” in the Index for more information. When you move out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), if the engine is running, the parking brake should release. If it doesn’t, you can manually release the parking brake.

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CAUTION:

Always shift to PARK (P) before pulling the manual release lever. If your hand or arm is in the way of the pedal you could be hurt. The pedal springs back quickly. Keep your hand and arm away when you use the manual release lever.

Before releasing the manual parking brake, be sure to put the vehicle in PARK (P) and turn the ignition to OFF.

Reach under the driver’s side of the instrument panel and pull on the manual release lever, which is located above the parking brake pedal. If the parking brake does not release, you should either drive to the nearest service station or have your vehicle towed.

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NOTICE:

Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.

If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. This section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

Shifting Into PARK (P)

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Steering Column Shift Lever (DeVille and DeVille d’Elegance Only) 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this:

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D Pull the lever toward you.

D Move the lever up as far as it will go.

3. With your right foot still holding the brake pedal

down, set the parking brake.

4. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 5. 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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Console Shift Lever 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

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CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.

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’ve moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it toward you (or, if you have the console shift lever, without first pressing the button). If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by holding in the

button on the shift lever and pushing the shift lever all the way toward the front of the vehicle.

3. With your right foot still holding the brake pedal

down, set the parking brake.

4. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 5. 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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Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. 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)

CAUTION:

Before shifting out of PARK (P) you must fully apply your regular brakes. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index.

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If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and also release the shift lever button on console shift models as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) If you ever hold the brake pedal down, but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the ignition key to OFF. Open and close the driver’s door to turn off the Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature.

2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear

you want.

5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

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CAUTION:

Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.

Engine Exhaust

CAUTION:

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: D Your exhaust system sounds strange

or different.

D Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. D Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. D Your vehicle was damaged when driving over

high points on the road or over road debris.

D Repairs weren’t done correctly. D Your vehicle or exhaust system had been

modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: D Drive it only with all the windows down to

blow out any CO; and

D Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

CAUTION:

Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

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CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake after you move the shift lever to PARK (P).

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Windows Power Windows

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The power window controls are located near each window. Press the control forward to raise the window and press rearward to lower. Note: The second rearward position on the driver’s control operates the express-down window feature. Your vehicle has Retained Accessory Power (RAP). When you stop your vehicle and turn the ignition key to OFF, you can still use your power windows. Electrical power to operate the windows will not shut off until you open a door or 10 minutes have passed. If you want this power for another 10 minutes, turn the key to RUN and back to OFF.

Express-Down Window This feature is present on the driver’s power window. Pressing the control rearward into the second position then releasing it will lower the window completely. If you want to stop the window as it is lowering, press the control forward. Press the control forward to raise the window. Note: The first position on the power window control operates the driver’s power window in the non-express mode.

Rear Window Lockout

This button is located near the power window controls on the driver’s side. Pressing this button down will disable the rear window controls. This is a useful feature if you have children as passengers. Press the button again to allow your passengers to reuse their window controls.

Horn The horn can be sounded by pressing on the center of the steering wheel pad.

Tilt Wheel

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Tilt steering allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. Raising the steering wheel to the highest level gives your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle. Hold the steering wheel and pull the lever toward you to tilt the wheel. Adjust the steering wheel to a comfortable position and then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

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Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Turn and Lane Change Signals To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. The lever returns automatically when the turn is complete.

An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

Replace burned-out bulbs to help avoid possible accidents. Check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs if the arrow fails to work when signaling a turn. Headlamp High/Low Beam Pull the turn signal lever all the way toward you and then release it to change the headlamps from low beam to high or from high beam to low.

This light on the instrument panel will be on, indicating high-beam usage.

Raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash to signal a lane change. Hold it there until the lane change is complete. The lever returns when it’s released. If the turn signal is left on, a warning chime will sound and the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display TURN SIGNAL ON (after driving about a mile) to remind you to turn it off. Arrows that flash rapidly when signaling for a turn or lane change may be caused by a burned out signal bulb. Other drivers won’t see the turn signal.

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Flash-To-Pass This lets you use the high-beam headlamps to signal the driver in front of you that you want to pass. Pull the turn signal lever toward you to use. When you do: D If the headlamps are either off or in the DRL mode, the high-beam headlamps will turn on. They’ll stay on as long as you hold the lever there. Release the lever to turn them off.

D If the headlamps are on low beam, they will shift to high beam and stay there. Pull the lever toward you to return to low beam.

D If the headlamps are on high beam, they will switch to low beam. To return to high beam, pull the lever toward you.

Windshield Wipers

WIPER: Turn the band on the turn signal lever to control the wipers. MIST: Turn the band toward you and then release it for a single wiping cycle. For more cycles, hold the band on MIST longer.

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LO or HI: Turn the band away from you to either LO (low speed) or to HI (high speed), depending on the wiper speed you want. DELAY: You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes with this setting. Turn the band to the DELAY position. The closer you move it to LO, the shorter the delay. (DeVille Only) OFF: Turn the band to OFF to turn off the wipers. Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If the blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload the wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload. Rainsenset Wipers (DeVille d’Elegance and DeVille Concours Only) This moisture sensor is mounted on the passenger’s interior side of the windshield behind the rearview mirror and is used to automatically operate the wipers by monitoring the amount of moisture that is on the windshield.

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The Rainsense wipers operate in a delay mode as well as a continuous low or high speed depending on the amount of moisture and the sensitivity level. The MIST and “wash” cycles operate as normal and are not affected by the Rainsense function.

NOTICE:

The wipers must be turned off when going through a car wash to avoid damage.

It is important to note that the Rainsense wiping feature (AUTO DELAY) can be overridden at any time by manually changing the wiper control to LO or HI speed. Note: If you ever need to replace the windshield, make sure it is Rainsense compatible.

The Rainsense system can be activated by turning the wiper stalk to one of the five sensitivity levels within the AUTO DELAY area. The AUTO DELAY position closest to OFF is the lowest sensitivity setting. This allows more water to collect on the windshield between wipes. Turning the stalk away from you to the other AUTO DELAY settings increases the sensitivity of the system and