1997 Chevrolet Corvette Owners Manual

The 1997 Chevrolet Corvette Owner’s Manual

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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 This section explains how to start and operate your Corvette. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system. Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. Problems on the Road This section tells what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc. Service and Appearance Care Here the manual tells you how to keep your Corvette running properly and looking good. Maintenance Schedule This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. 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- 10. Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem and the name CORVETTE 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 Chevrolet, 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. 10406716 A First Edition ii

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

E X C E L L E N C E

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

DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, Ontario L5T IC7

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1997 All Rights Reserved

CORVETTE: THE AMERICAN DREAM MACHINE In the early ’50s, 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 210-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.

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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Supplement to the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette Owner’s Manual

This text under “Remote HatchlTrunk Lid Release ” may replace the manual release cable information located in Section 2 of your Owner’s Manual. Locate the manual release cables in your vehicle. If they are located in the slots of the bottom of the latch trim covers (underneath the center storage compartment in the trunk area), refer to page 2-14 in your Owner’s Manual.’ If not, follow the. directions listed here. If your vehicle is equipped with a hatch and you have lost battery power, use the manual release cables to open the hatch. To access the cables, remove the two access panels located in the rear of the trunk area. There is one cable located underneath each access panel.

Pull each cable straight down for each latch to release the hatch.

97CORVOO2

For its 25th anniversary, the 1978 Corvette paced the 62nd Annual Indianapolis 500 and received a new fastback roofline with a wide expanse of glass that wrapped around the sides.

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.

After 44 years of production, Corvette only gets better. The fifth-generation Corvette arrives in 1997, featuring a completely restyled body and a new, all-aluminum, 5.7 Liter, 345-horsepower LS1 V8 engine. The structure of the fifth-generation redesign is the stiffest ever developed in 44 years of Corvette production, resulting .in unparalleled ride quality and outstanding handling. Also unique to the new Corvette is a rear-mounted transmission. Available as a Coupe for 1997, the new Corvette offers such standard features as extended-mobility tires, a Bose audio system, and a new, latch-operated roof designed for easy removal. With many design cues inspired by the classic models of the 1960s, the new fifth generation Corvette is an impressive combination of sleek styling and world-class sports car performance.

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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 1997 Corvette, over 1,000 employes teamed up with the 58 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 expected to resume April 1, 1997 and will be conducted Monday through Friday, starting at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.. 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. For more information, call (502) 78 1-7973.

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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 back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’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.

I A CAUTION:

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.

In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

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:

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:

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

UNLOCK

FASTEN SEAT BELTS

,\I/,

These symbols have to do with your lamps:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

SIGNALS e

TURN

WINDSHIELD WIPER

COOLANT TEMP

CHARGING I-1

BATTERY

SYSTEM

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

BRAKE

FUSE -%-

LIGHTER m (0) HORN )a( SPEAKER b

ENGINE OIL w, (a)

PRESSURE

FUEL

ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

WINDOW DEFOGGER

DAYTIME - 0

RUNNING * . 0 $0

LAMPS * * *

VENTILATING FAN

FOG LAMPS

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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.

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Seats and Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Driver Position Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Passenger Position

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Air Bag System Children Child Restraints Larger Children Safety Belt Extender Checking Your Restraint Systems Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

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Seats and Seat Controls This part tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining seatbacks and seatback latches. Manual Front Seat (Option) (Passenger Only)

Power Seat

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Pull up on the lever in 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.

The switch for the power seats is located on the side of each seat, near the base. 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 raise or lower the back of the seat, and the front of the control will raise or lower 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 up to raise the seat and down to lower it. Your preferred seat position can be stored and recalled have the memory option. See “Memory” in the Index.

if you

Sport Seat (Option)

Reclining Seatbacks

In addition to the power seat control, there are three other switches that help you change the shape of your seat. There are two lumbar supports (A and B) for the middle and lower back. There’s also a side bolster switch (C) that adjusts the sides of the seat around you to give you more lateral support. For lumbar support, move each switch (A and B) forward to inflate or rearward to deflate. Move the side bolster switch (C) up for more side support and down for less support.

The lever for the reclining seat back is located on the side of each seat, near the base. To adjust the seatback, pull up on the lever and tilt the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback into place.

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

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is 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. -

Seatback Latches

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 pull the seatback forward. The seatback will lock down in this position. To unlock, lift up on the latch and push the seatback rearward. When you return the seatback to its original position, make sure the seatback is locked.

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It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

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.

A CAUT-ON:

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.

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

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

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 30 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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

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Put someone on it.

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

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. . .

. .

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

or the instrument panel . . .

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Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- 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.

@ 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 of 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.

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.

Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’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.

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.

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Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats’? in the

so you can sit up straight.

wear

Index)

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

Don’t let it get twisted. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. See “Lap Belt Cinch Feature” in the Index.

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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.

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 crash.

Lap Belt Cinch Feature If you do not want the lap belt to move freely, pull the lap belt out all the way to set the lock. To permit the lap belt to move freely again, unbuckle the belt, let it retract all the way, and buckle up again.

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Qt What’s wrong with this?

a CAUTION:

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

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

as much protection this way.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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What’s wrong with this?

A c.

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 ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

to the

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: The belt is twisted across the body.

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.

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Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

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.

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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.

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. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. 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 bag system:

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 are designed to work with safety belts, but don’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 safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a air bag for that person.

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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.

A CAUTION:

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 before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. 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 are the air bags? The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

The passenger's air bag passenger's side.

is in the instrument panel on the

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I A CAUTION:

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.

When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. 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. It is possible that in a crash only one of the two air bags in 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 how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or near-frontal impacts. 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. 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 and in the instrument panel in front of the passenger.

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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. Air bags supplement 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 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. 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, or the instrument panel for the passenger’s bag -- 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 vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does 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.

In 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.

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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0

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 covering for the driver’s or the passenger’s air bag, the bag 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 coverings.

For up to 10 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.

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

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 CAUTION: (Continued)

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 rear-facing 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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I A CAUTION: vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in 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 kmlh), a 12-1b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-1b. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold.

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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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.) Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 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.

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

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.

2.

3.

4.

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A

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.

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

retractor to set the lock.

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Larger Children

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.

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. Children who aren't buckled up can strike other people who are.

1-30

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. &.” 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.

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I

I A CAUTION: I-- I 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 torn 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.)

1-33

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 you ever see a label on the driver’s or 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.

1-34

b NOTES

1-35

b% NOTES

1-36

e Section 2 Features and Controls

~~

~~

2-36 2-37 2-37

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. 2-2 2-4 2-5 2-6 2- 14 2-15 2- 16 2-18 2-19 2-20 2-22 2-24 2-26 2-29 2-32 2-33

Keys Door Locks Memory (Option) Remote Function Actuation System Remote Hatch Release Theft Universal Theft-Deterrent System PASS-Key@ New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Switch Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (Canada Only) Automatic Transmission Operation Manual Transmission Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission Models Only) Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission) Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission)

Parking Over Things That Bum Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transmission) Limited-Slip Rear Axle Selective Real Time Damping (Option) Windows Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Floor Mats (Option) Roof Panel Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Cluster Warning Lights, Gages and Messages Driver Information Center (DIC) DIC Warnings and Messages

2-38 2-38 2-40 2-4 1 2-4 1 2-50 2-52 2-53 2-54 2-59 2-6 1 2-68 2-70 2-7 1 2-8 1 2-90

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2-36

2-1

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.

One key ignition, all other

is used for the the doors and locks.

keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using this tag. If your key doesn’t have a tag and you need a new ignition key, go to your Chevrolet dealer for the correct key code. If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-CHEV-USA. (Canadian customers call 1-800-268-2800).

NOTICE:

When a new Corvette is delivered, the dealer gives the first owner-a key and a bar coded tag. Both the key and the tag are attached to a key ring. The heavy paper tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the bar-coded tag in a safe place. If you lose your

~~

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.

2-3

Door Locks

A 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 your door key or the key fob 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.

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

Power Door Locks

Memory (Option)

Press the power door unlocMlock switch on either door to lock or unlock both doors at once. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Your vehicle has a Remote Function Actuator, or key fob transmitter function that can also lock your vehicle as you walk away from it. See “Remote Function Actuation System” in the Index.

MEMORY can store and recall the vehicle settings for the driver’s seat position, the outside rearview mirror position, comfort control temperature, fan speed and mode settings, radio presets, tone, volume, playback mode (AMEM, tape or CD), last displayed station, compact disc position and audio tape direction.

Remote Function Actuation System Your Corvette has a passive/active Remote Function Actuation (RFA) system that allows you to lock and unlock your doors, unlock your hatch, turn the panic alarm on and off and disarm or arm your theft-deterrent system. When using one of the key fob transmitters supplied with your vehicle, the passive range distance is as much as 30 feet (9 m) away from the vehicle on the driver’s side and 20 feet (6 m) away on the passenger’s side. The active range distance is as much as 100 feet (30 m) away.

Your vehicle comes standard with two transmitters, and up to three can be matched to your vehicle.

The MEMORY buttons are located on the driver’s side door, above the power mirror buttons. The MEMORY buttons can store and recall the vehicle settings for up to three drivers. Use button “1” to store the vehicle settings for the first driver, button “2” for a second driver or press buttons 1 and 2 simultaneously for a third driver. To store your vehicle settings, press and hold a MEMORY button. The light will glow steady for one second and then flash once when the settings are completed. To recall your settings, press your MEMORY button. The light above the button will flash until the correct vehicle settings are achieved, then glow for three seconds when completed. Your memory settings will also be recalled when you press the active door UNLOCK button on the key fob transmitter. Drivers 1,2 and 3 correspond to the order in which your key fob transmitters were programmed. (See “Fob Training” in the Index). Memory recall will not work if the vehicle is moving, the ignition key is removed or a power seat, mirror or memory switch is being used. Memory recall will be temporarily interrupted during engine crank.

.:le” See “Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Ve , this section.

later in

0

Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. Check to make sure that an electronic device such as a cellular phone, lap top computer or garage door opener is not causing interference. Try to resynchronize the transmitter by pressing and holding the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons for seven seconds when standing next to the vehicle. If you’re still having trouble, see your Chevrolet dealer or a qualified technician for service.

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

Your RFA system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. 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. If you ever notice a decrease in the key fob transmitter range, try doing one of the following: 0 Check to determine if battery replacement is

necessary. See the instructions that follow. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.

2-7

Operation You don’t have to do anything for the RFA to work when the passive feature is ON.

You can turn on the passive feature by moving the transmitter’s slider switch to ON. Now, when you move toward your vehicle with the key fob transmitter, 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.

You can also use the buttons on the transmitter to actively unlock your vehicle. Press UNLOCK once to unlock the driver’s door, or press UNLOCK again within 10 seconds to unlock both doors. The hatch will unlock when the button with the trunk symbol is pressed, as long as the ignition is turned to the OFF position. If you move out of range with the slider switch set to ON, the key fob transmitter will: 0 Lock the doors after five seconds.

Arm the theft-deterrent system.

0 Sound the horn to let you know the doors are locked (if you have set your options to do so). (See “Driver Information Center Controls and Displays” in the Index.)

0 Turn off the interior lamps.

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 attempt to lock the doors, the vehicle will not lock and a chime will sound to remind you that the keys are in the ignition. If the door lock is pressed again, within five seconds the doors will lock and the keys can be locked in the car. If you leave the keys in the ignition and move away with the key fob transmitter, the doors still will not lock. You should notice that the horn doesn’t sound and return to get your keys out of the ignition. 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 key fob transmitter to get them out as long as the passive slide switch is in the ON position. After 15 seconds of no motion, the key fob transmitter shuts down to save the battery. Wait about 30 seconds, then rock the vehicle. The key fob transmitter should “wake up” and unlock the doors. This system can’t guarantee that you will never be locked out of your vehicle. If the battery is low or if the key fob 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.

Panic Alarm Button When you press the special horn button on the key fob transmitter, your vehicle’s horn will sound. This panic alarm button will allow you to attract attention, if needed. If the horn alarm sounds, there are three ways to turn it off:

Push the panic alarm button on the key fob transmitter again. Wait 90 seconds, and the horn will turn off by itself or turn the key to any position in the ignition switch, except OFF.

RFA Settings You can adjust the settings on the system through the Driver Information Center (DIC). You can have just the driver’s or both door locks passively unlock, change the type of alarm used by the theft-deterrent, or have lamps come on when you approach the vehicle. See “Driver Information Center Controls and Displays’’ in the Index.

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Turning the Passive System Off You can disable the passive feature by moving the transmitter’s slider switch to OFF. The vehicle will no longer automatically disarm your theft-deterrent system or unlock the doors, however, you will be able to actively control use of the door locks, the hatch release and the panic alarm using the four transmitter buttons. (These buttons also work when the passive feature is on.) Make sure to fully slide the switch to either side when turning the key fob transmitter on and off. You should feel a double click when sliding the switch back and forth. You can also check whether the passive 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 passive system is on. If you are workmg around your vehicle and keeping your keys with you, you might want to turn the RFA passive system off. If you don’t, the transmitter will keep locking and unlocking your doors.

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Transmitter Range The active range (using one of the four buttons) of the key fob transmitter is approximately 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 m). The passive range (having the slider switch set to ON) is approximately 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 m) on the passenger’s side of the vehicle and 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 m) on the driver’s side.

Resynchronizing Your Transmitter Your W A system uses a continually changing code for increased security. Normally, the receiver in your vehicle will keep track of this changing code. If your vehicle does not respond to your transmitter, do the following to determine what’s wrong: 1. Get closer to the vehicle and try pressing a button again. Your battery may be low (If so, see “Battery Replacement” in the Index).

2. While standing close to your vehicle, press the

LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on your transmitter at the same time and hold for seven seconds. This will attempt to resynchronize the security code in your RFA key fob transmitter.

3. When resynchronization is achieved, the horn

will chirp.

Loss of synchronization will occur after transmitter battery replacement or disconnection of the vehicle’s battery. If attempts to resynchronize your transmitter to the vehicle are not successful, you may need to match the transmitter to the vehicle.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each key fob transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only three transmitters matched to it. To match transmitters to your vehicle: 1. Turn the ignition key to the ON position. 2. Clear any warning messages on the Driver Information Center (DIC) by pressing the RESET button.

3. Press the OPTIONS button on the DIC several times until the blank page is displayed, then press and hold the RESET button for two seconds.

4. When the message FOB TRAINING is displayed, push the RESET button once. The message HOLD LK + UNLK 1ST FOB will be displayed.

2-11

5. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on

the transmitter simultaneously for 15 seconds.

6. When a transmitter is learned, the DIC will display FOB LEARNED and then prompt you to learn the next transmitter.

7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 for each additional transmitter. 8. Remove the key from the ignition. The programming mode will shut off if 0 You don’t program any transmitters for two minutes.

You take the key out of the ignition.

0 You have programmed three transmitters.

Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your key fob 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.

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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Replacing Your Battery

1. Insert a coin into the slot on the back of the

transmitter and gently pry apart the front and back.

2. Gently pull the battery out of the transmitter. 3. Put the new battery in the transmitter, positive (+) side up. Use a battery, type CR2450, or equivalent.

4. Reassemble the transmitter in the order shown.

Make sure to put it together in the correct order so water won’t get in.

5. Resynchronize the transmitter. (See

“Resynchronizing Your Transmitter” under Remote Function Actuation System earlier in this section.)

6. Test the transmitter.

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Remote Hatch Release

Press the’ button with the trunk symbol on it, at the left side of the steering column on the instrument panel, to release the hatch from inside your vehicle. The key fob transmitter will also release the hatch. See “Remote Function Actuation System” in the Index.

If you don’t have battery power, use the manual release cables to open the hatch. To access the cables, reach through the slots in the bottom of the latch trim covers and pull the cable for each latch to release the hatch.

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It ca-- 3e 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: 0 Make sure all windows are shut.

Turn 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.

0 If you have air outlets on or under the

instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

NOTICE:

If you put things in the hatch 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.

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.

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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 key? Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, since there would be no place to secure them.

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.

To arm the system, do the following: 1. Press the LOCK button on the key fob transmitter, as

mentioned earlier, OR

2. Walk out of range with the passive switch on, OR 3. Open the door. (The SECURITY light should flash.) Lock the door with the power door lock switch. The SECURITY light will stop flashing and stay on. Close all the doors. The SECURITY light should go off.

Now, if a door or the hatch is opened without the key or the key fob transmitter system, the alarm will go off. Your horn will sound for two minutes, then it will go off to save battery power. And, your vehicle won’t start.

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The theft-deterrent system won’t arm if you lock the doors with a key, the manual door lock, or if you power lock (from the inside) the vehicle after the doors are closed. If your passenger stays in the vehicle 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 key fob transmitter to unlock a door. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm. If you do set off the alarm, there are four ways to stop it: 0 Unlock any door with your key. 0 Put the key in the ignition.

Press the UNLOCK button on the key fob transmitter.

0 Walk into range with the passive switch on.

4. 5.

Testing the Alarm 1. 2. 3.

Make sure the rear hatch is latched. Lower a window on the door. Manually arm the system with the power door lock switch. Close the doors and wait 15 seconds. Reach through the open window and press the power unlock button. Now open the door. The alarm should sound. Turn off the alarm.

6. If the alarm 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 works, 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. The 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.

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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 Center at 1 -800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872). In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.

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 0 Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or less for the first 500 miles (805 km). slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 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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OFF: The only position from which you can remove the key. Removing the key locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission. If you have an automatic transmission, the ignition switch can’t be turned to OFF unless the shift lever is in PARK (P). ACC: The position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. With the key in this position, the automatic transmission and steering column will unlock. ON: The position to which the switch returns after you start the engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the ON position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use ON to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel messages and telltales.

Ignition Switch

With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions.

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START Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to ON for normal driving. When the engine is not running, ACC and ON 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 or ACC and the key is in the ignition.

I A CAUTION:

Removing the key from the ignition switch will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could cause a collision. If you need to turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key to ACC.

NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in OFF 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.

Retained Accessory Power (RAP) With RAP, your power windows and the audio system will continue to work for up to 15 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFT 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.

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.

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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.

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.

For your convenience and to avoid damage to your starter, your vehicle is equipped with a starter interlock feature. This feature will not allow you to crank the engine when the vehicle is already running.

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Engine Coolant Heater (Canada Only) The engine coolant heater is located on the driver’s side of the engine under the manifold. The electrical cord is attached to the generator bracket assembly, between the generator and the windshield washer fluid tank.

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 “Adding Oil” under “Engine” in the Index.

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In very cold weather, 0 O 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.

4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away fiom 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.

To Use the Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. With

headlamps closed, route the cord in the opening between the left-hand headlamp door and the fender panel. Do not pinch the cord when closing the hood. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

,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.

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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.

Be sure 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 ON 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 maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish.

(If you do not apply the brake after 15 seconds once the ignition is turned on, you will receive a PRESS BRAKE! BEFORE SHIFT message in the Driver Information Center.) See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

I 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.

1 NOTICE:

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

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AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): This position is for normal driving. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): 0 When driving on hilly, winding roads. 0 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 (l), the transmission won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

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.

Manual Transmission Operation 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 FIRST (l), put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1). 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(5)AND SIXTH (6): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4)’ FIFTH (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. Your six-speed manual transmission has a feature that allows you to safely shift into REVERSE (R) while the vehicle is rolling (at less than 5 mph (8 km/h)). You will be locked out if you try to shift into REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving faster than 5 mph (8 km/h). If you have turned your ignition off and wish to park your car in REVERSE (R), you will have to move the shift lever quickly to the right, and immediately forward into gear.

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'

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 3 t o 4 2 t o 3

4 t o 5

5 t o 6

1 t o 2

All

Engines

15 (24)

25 (40)

40 (64)