1996 Chevrolet Corvette Owners Manual

n The 1996 Corvette Owner’s Manual

This section explains how to start and operate your Corvette.

Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

Seats and Restraint Systems ............................................................... This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the air bag system. Features and Controls .................................................................. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems ..................................................... YourDrivingandtheRoad .............................................................. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. Service and Appearance Care.. .......................................................... Maintenanceschedule .................................................................. ........................................................ Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Chevrolet for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-9. Index .................................................................................

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

Here the manual tells you how to keep your Corvette running properly and looking good.

Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

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GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, CORVETTE and the CORVETTE Emblem, are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product 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. Please keep this manual in your Corvette, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the.vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 10261 162 B First Edition

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We support voluntary technician certification.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

National Institute for

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

EXCELLENCE

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux propri6taires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en fraqais chez votre concessionaire ou au:

DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, Ontario L5T lC7

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1995 All Rights Reserved

CORVETTE: THE AMERICAN DREAM MACHINE In the early OS, it was only a designer’s dream. Today the Corvette stands alone as America’s dream car -- a testament to its unmistakable charisma and the excitement it inspires. Unique styling, powerful performance and an undeniable panache have made Corvette one of the most celebrated sports cars in the world. In 1953, Corvette produced 300 new lightweight fiberglass roadsters. A handful went to project engineers, General Motors managers, and a select group of movie stars and celebrities. With a two-speed Powerglide automatic transmission, Blue Flame six-cylinder engine, and gleaming Polo White exterior, the Corvette began its drive into the heart of America. Designers freshened up the ’Vette in 1956 by adding a removable hardtop and the famous Corvette “coves.” The sculptured body enhanced its sporty look, and a standard 2 1 0-horsepower Chevy V8 engine solidified Corvette’s reputation as a production race car.

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In 1963, Corvette hit the road with an eye-catching new look -- the Sting Ray coupe. An instant success, the now-classic Sting Ray featured concealed headlamps and a unique split rear window. The split window would only be offered in 1963, making this model among the most prized Corvettes ever built.

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Restyled inside and out for 1968, this 'Vette sported a lean and hungry shape, creating a sense of motion even when standing still. And for the first time, Corvette offered removable roof panels.

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For its 25th anniversary, the 1978 Corvette received a new fastback roofline with a wide expanse of glass that wrapped around the sides. Emblenx front and rear identified the '78 'Vette a s a Silver Anniversary model.

Now in its 44th year of production, Corvette only gets better. From the Grand Sport 330-horsepower LT4 engine to state-of-the-art refinements standard on all Corvettes, today’s Corvette is a premier driving machine.

In 1984, the fourth generation of America’s favorite sports car anticipated the future with a sleek look and advanced technology that provided superior handling and performance. Windshield angle was the sheerest of any domestic vehicle, cornering ability the tightest of any production car. In short, the 1984 redesign enhanced the Corvette’s reputation as a leader in the world sports car market.

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CORVETTE ASSEMBLY PLANT The Corvette Assembly Plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky is one of the most sophisticated and computerized automobile assembly facilities in the world. To build your 1996 Corvette, over 1,200 employes teamed up with the 70 high-tech robots that assist in a variety of processes, from welding to painting. The Bowling Green facility is Corvette’s third home since 1953. Since beginning production in June of 1981, it has become one of Kentucky’s most popular tourist attractions. Corvette Assembly Plant tours are conducted Monday through Friday. Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more. For more information, call (502) 745-8228. The new National Corvette Museum, located near the assembly plant, opened its doors in September of 1994. It is also attracting tourists to the area.

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How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

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 hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

the

You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do this,” or “Don’t let this happen.”

Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices:

I NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

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Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.

For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

UNLOCK E l

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of. your controls:

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

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TURN SIGNALS

ENGINE COOLANT TEMP

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

BRAKE

Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE +

-,F-

FASTEN SEAT BELTS

POWER WINDOW

,\I/,

DAYTIME * RUNNING *

LAMPS - * *

$0

VENTILATING FAN

FOG LAMPS

LIGHTER

(0) HORN )cr SPEAKER b p3

ENGINE OIL w, (a)

PRESSURE

FUEL

ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BAllERY

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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Corvette and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls This part tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining seatbacks and seatback latches. Manual Seat

/d 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 don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.

Move the lever under the front of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Power Seat (Option)

SEAT

4 D

4 D

RIDE CONT SPORT

Different parts of the power seat control move different parts of your seat. If you move the whole control, the whole seat will move. The back of the control will move the back of the seat, and the front of the control will move the front of the seat. Move the control to the front or to the back to move the seat forward or backward. Move the control toward the center of the vehicle to raise the seat and away from the center of the vehicle to lower it.

If ,you have the Sport Seat, you must move the switch next to the lumbar controls to DR (driver) or PS (passenger) before adjusting your power seat.

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Sport Seat (Option)

Reclining Seatbacks

RIDE CONTROL

SPORT

These switches let you change the shape of your seat. There are three lumbar supports for the upper, middle and lower back. There’s also a side bolster that adjusts the sides of the seat around you to give you more lateral support. First move the selector switch to DR (driver) or PS (passenger). Then move the shaping switches until your seat is comfortable. For lumbar support, move each switch left to inflate or right to deflate.

To adjust the seatback, push the lever back and move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback in place.

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Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t 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 can’t 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.

But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

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Seatback Latches

CAUTION:

If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked.

Both seatbacks fold forward to give you access to the rear area. To fold a seatback forward, lift this latch and push the seatback forward. When you return the seatback to its original position, make sure the seatback is locked.

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Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the air bag system.

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re 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 passenger’s belt is fastened properly too.

1 Your vehicle has a light that

comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.)

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know- if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t 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 wouldn’t 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 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels.

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Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

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or the instrument panel ...

or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.

home, why should I wear safety belts?

&= If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from A: You may .be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passenger can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety B,elts -- and the Answers

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an . accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re 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 air bags, why should I have to

wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use o f safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your Corvette, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position. Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

it

so you can sit up straight.

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

Don’t let it get twisted.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt 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.

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=,ap Belt Cinch Featul

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, &us 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 crash.

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If you do not want the lap belt to move freely, push the CINCH button. To loosen the belt, unbuckle it, let it retract, and buckle up again.

Q: What’s wrong with this?

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

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A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

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@ What’s wrong with this?

lb WTION:

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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@ What’s wrong with this?

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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 aren’t 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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&." What's wrong with this?

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn't 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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Air Bag System This part explains the air bag system. Your Corvette has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the passenger. Here are the most important things to know about the air

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you have an air bag. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air bag is only a “supplemental restraint.” That is, it works with safety belts but doesn’t replace them. Air bags 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. should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver,

not there’s an air bag for that person.

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To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

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

AIR BAG

The system checks the air bag’s 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.

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children” and the caution label on the passenger’s safety belt.

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How the Air Bag System Works

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

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

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Don’t put anything on, or attach anything to, the steering wheel or instrument panel. Also, don’t put anything (such as pets or objects) between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. If something is between an occupant and an air bag, it could affect the performance of the air, bag or worse, it could cause injury.

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When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will 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

air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. air bags in It is possible that in a crash only one of the two your Corvette will deploy. This is rare, but can happen in a crash just severe enough to make an air bag inflate. 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. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only one indication of this. What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instiument panel in front of the passenger.

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. 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 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. 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. What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the passenger’s bag, will be hot for a short time. The part of the bag that comes into contact with you may be warm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

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 door.

n many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the passenger air bag. 0 The air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, 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.

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Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Corvette Air bags affect how your Corvette should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your Corvette dealer and‘the Corvette Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

NOTICE:

If you damage the cover for the driver’s or the passenger’s air bag, they may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag covers.

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For up to two minutes 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 wires, wires wrapped with yellow tape or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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 don’t wear safety belts.

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Passenger Position The passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section.

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

Smaller Children and Babies

I A CAUTION:

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. Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child restraint. However, infants, who should be restrained in a rearfacing child restraint, cannot ride safely in this vehicle. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. If a forward-facing child restraint is suitable for your child, be sure the child is always properly restrained while riding in this vehicle.

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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 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.

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Top Strap Some child restraints have a top strap. Don’t use a restraint like that in your vehicle because the top strap anchor cannot be installed properly. You shouldn’t use this type of child restraint without anchoring the top strap. Securing a Child Restraint in the Passenger Seat Position

Child Restraints 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 child restraint will show you how to do that. The child restraint must be secured properly in the passenger seat. 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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Your vehicle has a passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle. Here’s why:

a CAW TION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Do not use a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle. If a forward-facing child restraint is suitable for your child, always move the passenger seat as far back as it will go.

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a 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. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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6. Push the CINCH button. See “Lap Belt Cinch Feature”

in the Index, where we describe the cinch feature.

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

retractor while you push down on the child restraint,

8. 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.

Larger Children

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

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash.

0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

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.

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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: 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.

‘ A 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.

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. Tom or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is tom or frayed, get a new one right away. 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.)

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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.

j ..

If you ever see a label on the passenger’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help protect you in a collision. You would see this label on the belt near the latch plate. 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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n e Section 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Corvette, 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. Keys A CAUTION:

Leaving young 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. Don't leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

2-1

The square keys are for the ignition only, and the oval keys are for the doors and all other locks.

a code on it that tells your dealer or Each plug, or tag has a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs. If your ignition keys don’t have plugs, go to your Chevrolet dealer for the correct key code if you need a new ignition key.

I NOTICE:

When a new Corvette is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner. However, the ignition key may not have a plug. If the ignition key doesn’t have a plug, there will be a bar-coded key tag instead.

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

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Door Locks

Unlocked doors can bc ,angerow.

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 your door key or the Passive Keyless Entry transmitter. If your theft-deterrent system is armed, unlock the doors only with the key or the transmitter to avoid setting off the alarm. See “Universal Theft-Deterrent” in the Index.

I To lock the door from the

inside, move the lock control on the door backward. To unlock it, move the lock control on the door forward.

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Power Door Locks

Push the power door lock switch on either door backward to lock or forward to unlock both doors at once.

Passive Keyless Entry System Your Corvette’s Passive Keyless Entry System (PKE) allows you to lock and unlock your doors, unlock your trunk or hatch, or disarm or arm your theft-deterrent system from as much as three to seven feet (one to two meters) away when using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Your vehicle has a theft-deterrent system. See “Universal Theft-Deterrent” in the Index.

Your Corvette comes standard with one PKE transmitter. An additional transmitter is optional, and up to three can be matched to your vehicle.

See “Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle” later in this section. Your Passive Keyless Entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules.

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. Should interference to this system occur, try this: 0 Check to determine if battery replacement is

necessary. See the instructions on battery replacement. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range. Chkck the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. See your Chevrolet dealer or a qualified technician for service.

Changes or modifications to this system by anyone other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.

Operation You don’t have to do anything for PKE to work when the passive feature is on. Just move toward your vehicle with the PKE transmitter, and the system will automatically disarm your theft-deterrent system and unlock the doors. If it’s dark enough outside, your interior lamps will come on. If you move out of range, the PKE system will: 1. Lock the doors after five seconds. 2. Arm the theft-deterrent system. 3. Sound the horn to let you know the doors are locked. 4. Turn off the interior lamps. You can also use the buttons on the transmitter. Press DOOR to open the passenger’s door or HATCH to open the hatch. The HATCH button will only work when the ignition is off. The system has a feature that makes it difficult for you to lock your keys in your vehicle. If you leave your keys in the ignition and lock the doors, the system will unlock the doors as soon as they are closed. If you leave the keys in the ignition-and move away with the transmitter, the doors still will not lock. You should notice that the horn doesn’t sound and return to get your keys.

The system will allow you to lock your keys in the vehicle if you didn’t leave them in the ignition. You should, however, be able to use the transmitter to get them out. After 26 seconds of no motion, the transmitter shuts down to save the battery. Wait about 30 seconds, then rock the vehicle. The transmitter should “wake up” and unlock the doors. This system can’t guarantee that you’ll never be locked out of your vehicle. If the battery is low or if the transmitter is in a place where the signal can’t get to the antenna, it won’t unlock the doors. Always remember to take your keys with you. PKE Settings You can use the system for both doors or just the driver’s door, or you can turn the system off.

Changing the Door Settings 1. Put the ignition key in the ignition, but don’t turn it

on.

2. Press DOOR on the transmitter until the door locks

cycle (about two seconds).

II’urning the System Off 1. Take the ignition key out of the ignition. 2. Press DOOR on the transmitter until the door locks

cycle (about two seconds).

To turn the system back on, just repeat the steps. To check that the system is off, turn on the ignition. The PASSIVE KEYLESS ENTRY light on the Driver Information Center should not come on. If the light does come on for a second or two, then the PKE system is still on. You can also check whether the system is on or off by closing the door and moving away from the vehicle with the keys and transmitter. If the doors lock, the system is on. If you are working around your vehicle and keeping your keys with you, you might want to turn the PKE system off. If you don’t, the transmitter will keep locking and unlocking your doors.

2-6

I

W A ( 1-1 'hm) f l

(1 'I2 5'-7' - 2m)

Transmitter Range The transmitter range depends on your vehicle and where you are standing. The coupe (A) has an antenna in the driver's door and one in the rear area. The convertible (B) has one antenna in each door. The antennas do not require any maintenance. Range also depends on how you hold the transmitter. For best performance, when you come near your vehicle, hold the transmitter straight up and down, keys hang down. If the range seems to be decreasing, check the battery in the transmitter. Range will decrease if the battery is low. It will also decrease if more than one transmitter is in in a metal container the area. Don't put the transmitter because the transmitter won't work.

so the

TYPICAL RANGE

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Matching Transmitter($) To Your Vehicle Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only three transmitters matched to it. To match transmitters to your vehicle: 1. Move all transmitters out of range. 2. Turn the ignition key on. 3. Push TRIP OD0 on the Driver Information Center

twice.

4. Within five seconds, press and hold FUEL INFO

until the PASSIVE KEYLESS ENTRY light comes on.

5. Turn the ignition off, but leave the key in the

ignition. The PASSIVE KEYLESS ENTRY light should begin to flash to show the system is in programming mode.

6. Bring one transmitter into range. The light will stop flashing and stay on to show that the code is stored. 7. Move the transmitter out of range. The light should

start flashing again.

8. Repeat Steps 6 and 7 with each additional

transmitter.

The programming mode will shut off if 0 You don’t program any transmitters for two minutes. 0 You take the key out of the ignition or turn the

ignition on.

0 You have programmed three transmitters. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your key chain transmitter should last about 18 months. 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.

Replacing Your Battery

Remote Hatch Release

1. Insert a screwdriver into the slot on the back of the transmitter and gently pry apart the front and back.

2. Gently pry the battery out of the transmitter using the

screwdriver.

3. Put the new battery in the transmitter, positive (+) side up.

Use a Duracell@ battery, type DL2450, or equivalent.

4. Put the two halves back together. Make sure the halves are together tightly so water won’t get in.

5. Test the transmitter.

Press the switch in your center console to unlock the hatch from inside your vehicle. If you have an automatic transmission, your shift lever must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) to use the switch. If you have a manual transmission, you must set the parking brake before you can use the switch when the vehicle is running. If you have a manual transmission and the vehicle is not running, you may use the switch in any gear.

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If you have a coupe, this switch is on the rear of the driver’s door. It works with the door open and the transmission in any gear. Push it down to release the hatch.

The PKE transmitter will also release the hatch. See “Passive Keyless Entry System’’ in the Index.

.. .

If you don’t have battery power, use the manual release cable to open the hatch. The cable is near the security shade handle, between the carpet and the shade.

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A CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the hatch 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 hatch open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the hatch:

NOTICE:

If you put things in the hatchback area, be sure they won’t break the glass when you close it. Never slam the hatch down. You could break the glass or damage the defogger grid. When you close the hatch, make sure you pull down from the center, not the sides. If you pull the hatch down from the side too often, the weatherstrip can be damaged.

Make sure all windows are shut.

0 Thrn the fan on your heating or cooling

system to its highest speed with the setting on bi-level or vent. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

1

Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Corvette 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 Corvette and open the driver’s

door, you’ll hear a tone 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. If you have an automatic transmission, taking your key out also locks your transmission. 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. 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? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? Put your valuables in a storage area, like your rear storage compartment or center console. Lock the rear storage compartment and center console. Lock all the doors except the driver’s. Then take the door key with you.

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Universal Theft-Deterrent System

SECURITY

Your Corvette has a theft-deterrent alarm system. With this system, the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off). This light reminds you to arm the theft-deterrent system.

Here’s how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or

Passive Keyless Entry system. The SECURITY light will come on.

3. Close all the doors. The SECURITY light should go off. Now, if a door or the hatch is opened without the key or Passive Keyless Entry system, the alarm will go off. Your horn will sound for three minutes, then it will go off to save battery power. And, your vehicle won’t start. The theft-deterrent system won’t arm if you lock the doors with a key or manual door lock, or if you lock the vehicle after the doors are closed.

If your passenger stays in the vehcle when you leave with the keys, have the passenger lock the vehicle after the doors are closed. This way the alarm won’t arm, and your passenger won’t set it off. Always use your key or the Passive Keyless Entry system to unlock a door. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm. If you do set off the alarm accidentally, there are three ways to stop it:

Unlock any door with your key. Put the ignition key in the ignition. Use the Passive Keyless Entry system.

Testing the Alarm 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Make sure the rear hatch is latched. Lower a window. Arm the system. Close the doors and wait five seconds. Reach through the open window and unlock the door from inside. The alarm should sound. Turn off the alarm.

6. If the alam is inoperative, check to see if the horn works. If not, check the horn fuse. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. If the horn does work, but the alarm doesn’t go off, see your dealer.

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PASS-Key@

Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key is a passive theft-deterrent system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition.

PASS-Key uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle. When the PASS-Key system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key during this time, the shutdown period will start over again. This discourages someone from randomly trying different keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a match.

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The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the SECURITY light comes on, the key may be dirty or wet. If this happens and the starter won’t work, turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key, wait three minutes and try again. If the starter still won’t work, wait three minutes and try the other ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuses (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Chevrolet dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key. However, if you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, you will see no SECURITY light. You don’t have to wait three minutes before trying the proper key.

__

If the resistor pellet is damaged or missing, the starter won’t work. Use the other ignition key, and see your Chevrolet dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key to have a new key made. If the SECURITY light comes on while driving, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key ignition key, see your Chevrolet dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key. In an emergency, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Program at 1 -800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872).

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Your modern Corvette doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: 0 Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (804 km). 0 Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. 0 Avoid making hard stops for the first

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.

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Ignition Positions

With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five positions. ACC (A): Position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition switch as you turn the top of it toward you. OCK (B): The only position in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission.

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If you have an automatic transmission, the ignition switch can't be turned to LOCK unless the shift lever is in the PARK (P) position. OFF (C): Unlocks the steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed. RUN (D): Position to which the switch returns after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the RUN position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use RUN to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel warning and indicator lights. START (E): Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to RUN for normal driving. When the engine is not running, ACC and RUN allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio. A warning tone will sound if you open the driver's door when the ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACC and the key is in the ignition.

Key Release Button

If you have a manual transmission, your ignition lock has a key release button. You must press the button before you can take your key out of the ignition lock.

CAUTION:

On manual transmission vehicles, turning the key to LOCK will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could cause a colIision. If you need to turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key only to OFF. Don’t press the key release button while the vehicle is moving.

I NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure it is 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.

Delayed Accessory Bus (DAB) With DAB, your power windows and the audio system will continue to work up to 15 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF and neither door is opened. If a door is opened, the audio system and power windows will shut off.

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Starting Your Engine Automatic Transmission 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 Corvette is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

Manual Transmission The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL. (N). Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that’s a safety feature. Starting Your Engine 1. Without pushing 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.

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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.

2. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds, push the

accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while you hold the ignition key in START. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery.

When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or -18”C), do this: 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the

ignition key to START and hold it there. When the engine starts, let go of the key. Use the accelerator pedal to maintain engine speed, if you have to, until your engine has run for a while.

2. 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, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.

I 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.

Racing or Other Competitive Driving See your Warranty Book before using your Corvette for racing or other competitive driving.

NOTICE:

If you use your Corvette for racing or other competitive driving, your engine may use more oil than it would with normal use. Low oil levels can damage the engine. Be sure to check the oil level often during racing or other competitive driving and keep the level at or near the upper mark on the engine oil dipstick. You may need to add oil. See “Engine Oil” in the Index.

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Engine Coolant Heater (Canada Only)

A 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.

4. After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure to 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 Chevrolet dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

In very cold weather, 0°F (- 18 O 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. To Use the Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

Automatic Transmission Operation

There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

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.

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Corvette has a brake-transmission shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the RUN position. 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 as you

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maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

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

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your 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.

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.

I NOTICE:

I ~~~

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

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re:

Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. DRIVE (D): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0). Here are some times you might choose DRIVE (D) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): 0 When driving on hilly, winding roads

When going down a steep hill

SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. 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.

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

I NOTICE:

If your rear 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 transmission. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

Maximum engine speed is limited to protect driveline components from improper operation.

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Manual Transmission 6-Speed

This is your shift pattern. Here’s how to operate your transmission:

FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 40 mph (64 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hard to shift into HRST (I), put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1).

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SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up on the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. THIRD(3),FOURTH(4),FIFTH(S)ANDSIXTH(6): Shift into THIRD (3)’ FOURTH (4), F’IFTH (5) and SIXTH (6) the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. TO STOP: Let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL (N). NEUTRAL (N): Use this position when you start or idle your engine. Your shift lever is in NEUTRAL (N) when it is centered in the shift pattern, not in any other gear. REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Just apply pressure to get the lever past FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6) into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal.

Shift Speeds (Manual Transmission) This chart shows when to shift to the next higher gear for best fuel economy.

Manual Transmission Recommended

Shift Speeds in mph (km/h)

Engine

Acceleration Shift Speed

l t o 2 1 2 t o 3 1 3 t o 4 1 4 t o 5 1 5 t o 6

All

Engines

15 (24)

25 (40)

40 (64)

45 (72)

50 (80)

If your engine speed drops below 900 rpm, or if the engine is not running smoothly, you should downshift to the next lower gear. You may have to downshift two or more gears to keep the engine running smoothly or for good performance.

I NOTICE:

When you are shifting gears, don’t move the gear shift lever around needlessly. This can damage parts of the transmission and may require costly repair. Shift directly into the next appropriate

I gear.

One to Four Light (Manual Transmission) When this light comes on, you can only shift from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) instead of FIRST (1) to SECOND (2). You must complete the shift into FOURTH (4) to deactivate this feature. This helps you get the best possible fuel economy.

ONE TO FOUR

After shifting to FOURTH (4), you may shift down to a lower gear if you prefer.

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NOTICE:

Do not try to force the shift lever into SECOND (2) or THIRD (3) when the ONE TO FOUR light comes on. Do not try to re-engage FIRST (1) after starting to shift into FOURTH (4). You will damage your transmission. Shift only from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) when the light comes on.

Downshifting (Manual Transmission) Do not downshift into the gear shown below at a speed greater than shown in the table: FIRST (1) . . . . . . . . . . :. . . . . . . . . 44 mph (71 km/h) SECOND (2) ................ 64 mph (103 km/h) THIRD (3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 mph (145 km/h) FOURTH (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 mph (187 kmk)

This light will come on when:

The engine coolant temperature is higher than 120 OF (49 O C).

0 You are going 15 to 19 mph (24 to 3 1 km/h), and

You are at 21 percent throttle or less.

If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. And you could injure yourself or others. Don’t shift from SIXTH (6) to THIRD (3), FIFTH (5) to SECOND (2) or FOURTH (4) to FIRST (1).

NOTICE:

If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, or if you race the engine when you downshift, you can damage the clutch or transmission.

The six-speed transmission has a spring that centers the shift lever near THIRD (3) and FOURTH (4). This spring helps you know which gear you are in when you are shifting. Be careful when shifting from FIRST (1) to SECOND (2) or downshifting from SIXTH (6) to FIFTH (5). The springs will try to pull the gear shift lever toward FOURTH (4) and THIRD (3). Make sure you move the lever into SECOND (2) or FIFTH (5). If you let the lever move in the direction of the pulling, you may end up shifting from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) or from SIXTH (6) to THIRD (3).

Ride Control (Option) You may have a ride control system on your Corvette called Real Time Damping (RTD). The system provides the following performance benefits:

Reduced impact harshness

0 Improved road isolation 0 Improved high-speed stability 0 Improved handling response

RIDE CONTROL

SPORT

This knob is on the center console. Turn it to select the ride control of your choice.

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Parking Brake

To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up, then move it back down. This sets your parking brake, even though the lever is down. If the ignition is on, the parking brake indicator light will come on.

TOUR: Use for city and highway driving. Provides a smooth, soft ride. SPORE Use where road conditions or personal preference demand more control. Provides more “feel,” or response to the road conditions. PERF’: Use for performance driving. Provides a tight, firm ride and precise response to road conditions. You can select a setting at any time. Based on road conditions and your vehicle speed, the system automatically adjusts to provide the best ride and handling. Select a new setting whenever driving conditions change. The SERVICE RIDE CONTROL light monitors the system. Refer to “Service Ride Control Light” in the Index. Limited-Slip Rear Axle Your rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and the other does, the limited-slip feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle.

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Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission Mode’ 0 ly)

It can be dangerous to get out of yqur 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.

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To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can push in the release button. Hold the release button in as you move the brake lever all the way down.

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.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission Models Only)

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.

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2. Move the shift lever into the PARK (P) position by holding in the button on the lever and pushing the lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle.

3. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can

remove the key from your ignition, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

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Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. 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. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission) Your Corvette has a brake-transmission shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN position. See “Automatic Transmission Operation” in the Index.

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 as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to the OFF position. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the engine and then shift to the drive gear

you want.

5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can. Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission) Before you get out of your vehicle, put your manual transmission in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the parking brake.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

Engine Exhaust

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:

Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. Yqur vehicle was damaged in a collision. Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. Repairs weren’t done correctly. Your vehicle or exhaust system had been modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:

Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and

0 Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under yOur vehicle and ignite. Don’t park