1997 Chevrolet Express Owners Manual

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.

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If your vehicle has an air bag for the right front passenger, please read this:

a CAW TICl J:

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 right front passenger’s safety belt.

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

AIR BAG

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

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

I

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. And don’t hang anything from the assist handle on the passenger’s side of the instrument panel.

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 11 to 16 mph (18 to 26 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. 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 right front 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 anythmg 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 -- in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag -- or the instrument panel for the right front 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.

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. Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and 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.

0 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.

NOTICE:

If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front 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 right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle 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 GM dealer and the GM 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.

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 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.

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle @’ If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the

front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags from working properly?

A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is

attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash.

Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

@ Is there anything I might add to the front of the

vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly?

A: Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s fiame, bumper system, front end sheet metal or height, they may keep the air bag system from working properly. Also, the air bag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the air bag sensors. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you mod@ your vehicle. (The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See “Customer Satisfaction Procedure” in the Index.)

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

When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

Don’t let it get twisted.

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

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

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likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.

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.

is

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

Center Passenger Position

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

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Lap Belt If your vehicle has rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.

When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate &d pull it along the belt.

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To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckleis positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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 (Except Cargo Vans with Passenger Air Bags) A CAUTION:

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child.

CAUTION: (Continued)

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

A

heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-1b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

A CAUTION: I- 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

CAUTION: (Continued)

Smaller Children and Babies (Cargo Vans with Passenger Air Bags)

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 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.

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 124b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-1b. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold.

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 infant or child restraint will show you how to do that.

Where to Put the Restraint (Except Cargo Vans and Cab and Chassis Models) Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in a rear seat. If your vehicle has a front passenger air bag, never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

A C WTION:

rn A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front 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. If your vehicle has a right front passenger’s air bag, always secure a rearfacing child restraint in a rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Before you secure a forward-facing child restraint, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. Or, secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it. Where to Put the Restraint (Cargo Vans and Cab and Chassis Models) The child restraint must be secured properly in the passenger seat. If 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.

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.

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 a Rear Outside Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

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

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

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

the retractor to set the lock.

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position

6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

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You’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

. "

1.

2.

3.

4.

Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. Run the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

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

down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn't, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

1-45

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

If your vehicle has a front passenger air bag, never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

I A CAUTdN:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the front 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. If your vehicle is a passenger van, always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. If your vehicle is a cargo van with a right front passenger 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.

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

2.

3.

4.

.. 1

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.

1-47

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

the retractor to set the lock.

7. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder 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.

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Larger Children

If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. 0 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.

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

1-49

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

What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.

A:

Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.

- .

1-51

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

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

@% NOTES

b NOTES

Section 2 Features and Controls

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

2-2 2-4 2-6 2-9 2-15 2-16 2-16 2-17 2-19 2-20 2-23 2-23 2-24 2-27 2-27 2-28 2-28

Keys Door Locks Keyless Entry System Your Doors and How They Work Theft New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Switch Starting Your Gasoline Engine Engine Coolant Heater (Option) Automatic Transmission Operation Locking Rear Axle Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked

2-29 2-32 2-32 2-33 2-38 2-43 2-44 2-45 2-46 2-47 2-48 2-49 2-50 2-60

2-6 1

Windows Horn Tilt Wheel (Option) Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Cigarette LightedAshtrays Sun Visors Instrument Panel Instrument Cluster Speedometer Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Electronic Road-Speed Governor (Gasoline Engines) (Option) Center High-Mounted Stoplamp

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. If they turned the ignition to ON and moved the shift lever out of PARK (P), that would release the parking brake. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

~

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

Your vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition and all door locks.

If you ever lose your key, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining a new one. The bar-coded tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make an extra key. Keep this tag in a safe place. If you lose your key, you’ll be able to have a new one made easily using this tag.

To lock the door from the inside, slide the lever on your door down. To unlock the door, slide the lever up.

1 Door Locks

A CAUTION: Passengers -- especially children -- can easily

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

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 key.

2-4

Power Door Locks (Option)

Press the bottom side of the power door lock switch to lock the doors at once.

p/S$J]

Printed In U.S.A.

Rear Cargo Door

When a door is locked, the inside door handle will not work. Child Security Locks Child security locks are located on the passenger side rear door, the side sliding door or the front portion of the 60/40 side swing-out door.

CHILD

SECURITY

LOCK

With this feature, you can lock these doors so they can’t be opened from the inside by passengers. Move the button down to engage the security feature. Move the button up to return the door locks to normal operation.

Move the button to the left to engage the security feature. Move the button to the right to return the door locks to normal operation.

60/40

2-5

Move the button up to engage the security feature. Move the button down to return the door locks to normal operation.

Side Sliding Door

Keyless Entry System If your vehicle has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry and Science 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 and Science Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: 0 Check to determine if battery replacement or

transmitter resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow.

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

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.

0 If you’re still having trouble, see your GM dealer or

a qualified technician for service.

Operation To unlock the driver’s door, press the UNLOCK button. If you press this button again within five seconds, all the doors will unlock. Press the REAR button twice to unlock the rear door only. When the UNLOCK or REAR button is pressed, the interior dome lamps are turned on for 40 seconds or until the ignition switch is activated. Press LOCK to lock all the doors. Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. 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 two transmitters matched to it.

Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your key remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

I 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.

Use one PanasonicB type CR2032 battery: 1. Insert a dime in the slot between the covers of the transmitter housing near the key ring hole. Remove the bottom by twisting the dime.

2. Remove and replace the battery, positive side down.

Synchronization Synchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal it has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter. To resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your vehicle and simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter for at least five seconds. The door locks should cycle to confirm synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your dealer for service.

3. Align the covers and snap them together. 4. Check the operation of the transmitter.

2-8

Your Doors and How They Work Front Doors To open the door from the outside, pull the handle and pull the door open. To open the door from the inside, pull the lever toward you and push the door open. 60140 Swing-Out Side Door

To open the “60” (front) portion of a 60/40 door from the inside, pull the handle toward you and push open the door.

To open the “60” (front) portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull up on the handle and pull the handle toward you.

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To close the side doors, close the “40” (rear) door first. Then close the “60” (front) door. Check to make sure both doors are completely closed. The front side swing-out door has a check strap assembly in the door frame to keep the door from opening beyond 90 degrees. To open the door beyond 90 degrees, close the door partially, pull the check strap outward at the spring hole and then open the door. When you close the door, the check strap will automatically re-engage.

To open the “40” (rear) portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull the handle on the side of the rear door and pull it toward you.

Sliding Side Door (Option)

To open the sliding side door from outside, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the door toward the rear of the vehicle to open.

I To close the sliding side door from outside, use the

outside door handle to slide the door toward the front of the vehicle. When the door slides closed completely, it will be flush with the side of the body.

To open the sliding door from inside, rotate the handle upward and toward the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the door toward the rear of the vehicle to open.

To close the sliding door from inside, grasp the inside handle and slide the door toward the front of the vehicle to a closed position. Make sure the door is completely closed before driving your vehicle.

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Rear Doors

To open the rear doors from the outside, open the passenger side rear door first. Pull the handle toward you to open the door.

To open the driver side rear door, pull the latch release lever at the inside edge of the door.

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Both rear doors can be opened past 90 degrees by opening the doors past the first detent (90 degrees open), then opening fully. To close the rear doors, close the driver side rear door first. Then, close the passenger side rear door. Check to make sure both doors are completely closed.

I-

It can be dangerous to drive with the rear doors 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. CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued) If you must drive with the rear doors open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the rear doors:

Make sure all windows are shut. lbrn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT, HEAT, BLEND or DEF. Additionally, on vehicles with heatingair conditioning systems, NORM A/C or BI-LEV A/C can be used. 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.

Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a 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 and 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 glove box.

0 Lock all the doors except the driver’s. 0 Then take the door key with you.

_ _

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New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Your modern vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines:

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 kmh) or 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. 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. Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

Ignition Switch Your key lets you turn the ignition switch to five different positions.

ACCESSORY (A): ACCESSORY lets you use things like the radio, power windows and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. To get into ACCESSORY, push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key.

LOCK (B): This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transmission. It’s a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being pushed). RUN (D): This is the position for driving. START (E): This starts your engine.

NOTICE:

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

Starting Your Gasoline Engine If you have a diesel engine, see “Starting Your Diesel Engine” in the Diesel Engine Supplement. 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.

I NOTICE: r Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle

is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

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

I 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.

3.

If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in START. If it doesn’t start in 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way down for five more seconds, or until it starts. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), wait 15 seconds and start over. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

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

/!\ CAUTION:

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

4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don't, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your GM 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 "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.

Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, it now features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of the PARK (P) position. This means that if your key is in the OFF position, but not locked, there will be a small current drain on your battery which could discharge your battery over a period of time. If you have a need to leave your key in the ignition in the ’ OFF position for an extended period for any reason, it is recommended that you disconnect the battery cable from the battery to prevent discharging your batter.y. PARK Cp): 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. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Your vehicle has a brake-transmission shift interlock. With the ignition in the RUN position, you must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P). If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you continue pressing the brake pedal. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you still cannot shift the shift lever out of PARK (P), see “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” later in this section. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

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

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.

NOTICE:

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.

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

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:

in

If your rear wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you are stuck very deep sand or mud or are 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.

DRIVE (D): 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 kmh) or more, push the accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. You should use DRIVE (D) (or, as you need to, a lower gear) when towing a trailer to minimize heat build-up and extend the life of your transmission. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than DRIVE (D). You should use THIRD (3) when carrying a heavy load or driving on steep hills. 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. If you manually select SECOND (2), the transmission will drive in SECOND (2). You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.

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Locking Rear Axle If you have this feature, your locking 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 locking feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle. Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.

To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the handle, located just above the parking brake pedal, marked BRAKE RELEASE to release the parking brake.

If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off.

Shifting Into PARK (P)

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. Always check to be sure your parking brake is fully released before you drive.

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

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

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

set the parking brake.

2-24

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this:

I - a

0 Pull the lever toward you.

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

3. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

A CAUTION:

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

Torque Lock 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 parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

Parking Over Things That Burn

Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your vehicle has a brake-transmission shift interlock system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transmission” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way up into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then, move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear

you want.

5. Have the brake-transmission shift interlock system

fixed as soon as you can.

a CAUTIO, i:

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

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Engine Exhaust

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or sm.el1. 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.

0 Your 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.

2-28

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

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

I A CAUTION:

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

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

Windows Manual Windows To operate your manual windows, turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower your side door windows. Power Windows (Option)

If you have the optional power windows, the controls are on each of the side doors.

Swing-Out Windows

Side Swing-Out Window

To open your side door swing-out windows, pull up on the latch at the edge of the window and swing the window out and push down the latch into the locked open position.

The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger windows as well. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to the RUN position. Push the rear of the switch with the power window symbol on it to lower the window. Push the front of the switch with the power window symbol on it to raise the window. The driver’s window switch also has an express-down feature that allows the window to lower without holding the switch. Press and hold the side of the window switch marked AUTO for one second to activate the express-down mode. The express-down mode can be cancelled at any time by pressing the opposite side of the switch. To open the window partway, lightly tap the switch until the window is at the desired position.

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Rear Swing-Out Window

To close the window, pull the latch toward you and push down on the latch to lock it. Your rear swing-out windows work the same way, but the latch is at the bottom edge of the window.

It can be dangerous to drive with the rear swing-out windows or rear door@) 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 rear swing-out windows or rear door(s) open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the rear swing-out windows or rear door(s): 0 Make sure all windows are shut.

Thrn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT, HEAT, BLEND or DEE Additionally, on vehicles with heatingair conditioning systems, NORM A/C or BI-LEV A/C can be used. 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.

2-31

Horn Press one of the horn buttons at each side of the steering wheel to sound the horn.

If your vehicle is equipped with an air bag, press anywhere on the module to sound the horn. If your vehicle is not equipped with an air bag, press on the cap in the center of the steering wheel to sound the horn.

Tilt Wheel (Option) A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle.

To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

Tbrn SignaVMultifunction Lever

Turn Signal and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.

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

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: 0 Turn Signal and Lane Changer 0 Headlamp High/Low beam Changer 0 Windshield Wipers 0 Windshield Washer 0 Cruise Control (Option)

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.

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As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows flash at twice the normal rate, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers may not see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and a blown fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you. Then release it.

When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel also will be on.

Windshield Wipers

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band with the wiper symbol on it.

For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the band on MIST longer. You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to LOW, the shorter the delay.

snow from the wiper

For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band to the LOW position. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to HIGH. To stop the wipers, move the band to OFF. Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear ice and blades before using them. If they are frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. The windshield wiper motor is protected from overload by a circuit breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy snow, etc., the wiper will stop until the motor cools. Although the circuit is protected from electrical overload, overload due to heavy snow, etc. may cause wiper linkage damage. Always clear ice and heavy snow from the windshield before using your windshield wipers.

Windshield Washer At the top of the lever, there’s a paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. Washer fluid will spray as long as you push the paddle. When you let go of the paddle, the wipers will continue to wipe for approximately two more wipe cycles and then either stop or return to the preset speed.

In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.

2-35

Cruise Control (Option) With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40km/h). When you apply your brakes, the cruise control shuts off.

’

Cruise control can be dangerous where you can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads.

a CA JTION:

Setting Cruise Control

If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch OFF until you want to use it.

1. Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want.

3. Press in the SET button

at the end of the lever and release it.

4. Take your foot off the

accelerator pedal.

Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second. You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. Remember, if you hold the switch at RIA longer than half a second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at R/A.

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed:

Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Push the button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.

Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A for less than half a second. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.

Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control:

Push in the button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. 0 To slow down in very small amounts, push the

button for less than half a second. Each time you do this, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier.

Exterior Lamps

Your parking/headlamp switch is on the driver’s side of your instrument panel. Your instrument panel dimmer wheel now has two detent positions.

Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. If the steepness of the hill causes the vehicle speed to drop more than 15 mph (9.4 kmh) below the set speed, your cruise control will automatically disengage. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills. Ending Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:

Step lightly on the brake pedal; or

0 Move the cruise switch to OFF. Erasing Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased.

2-38

When the wheel is turned to full brilliance, and then into the first detent position, the radio display and PRNDL display will go to the day mode (full intensity). This is known as “parade” mode. The rest of the I/P illumination will stay in the maximum dimming state (full brilliance dimming). Turning the wheel up one more detent will activate the interior dome light circuit (with slightly higher effort). The dome lights cannot be turned on by depressing the dome light switch button, located below the parWhead lamp switch knob. This switch is a dome lamp off switch and will only interrupt inputs from the door jamb switches, inhibiting interior light operation when depressed. It will not inhibit the light function from the I/P dimmer switch. The delayed entry will allow you to enter or exit your vehicle with the lights staying on for about 20 seconds after the door is closed or ignition is cycled. Rotate the switch knob clockwise to the parking lamp symbol to turn on: 0 Parking Lamps 0 Sidemarker Lamps

Taillamps

0 License Plate Lamps 0 Instrument Panel Lights

Ashtray Lamp

0 Glove Box Lamp Rotate the switch knob clockwise again to the master lighting symbol to turn on all the lamps listed above as well as the headlamps. Rotate the switch counterclockwise to OFF to turn off your lamps and lights. Rotate the thumb wheel next to the switch knob up to adjust instrument panel lights. Rotate the thumb wheel up to the first notch to return the radio display and gearshift indicator Vacuum Fluorescence (VF) display to full intensity when the headlamps or parking lamps are on. Rotate the thumb wheel up to the second notch to activate the interior dome lamps. You can switch your headlamps from high to low beam by pulling on the turn signalhigh beam lever. A circuit breaker protects your headlamps. If you have an electrical overload, your headlamps will flicker on and off. Have your headlamp wiring checked right away if this happens.

Headlamps On Reminder A tone will sound when your headlamps are turned on and your ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY. If you need to use your headlamps when the ignition switch is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY, the tone can be turned off by turning the thumb wheel next to the parking lamp/headlamp switch all the way down. Daytime Running Lamps (If Equipped) Daytime Running Lamps ( D m ) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will make your headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when:

The ignition is on, The headlamp switch is off, and

0 The parking brake is released. If your vehicle was first sold, when new, in Canada, your headlamps will come on at reduced brightness. If your vehicle was first sold, when new, in the United States, your vehicle may be equipped with DRL. If your vehicle has DRL, you will see the the DRL indicator 2-40

light on your instrument panel and your low-beam headlamps will come on at reduced brightness. When the DRL are on, only your headlamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t be lit up either. When it begins to get dark, your DRL indicator light is a reminder to turn your headlamp switch on. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When you turn off the headlamp switch, the regular lamps will go off, and your headlamps will change to the reduced brightness of DRL. To idle your vehicle with the engine on and the DRL off, set the parking brake. The DRL will stay off until you release the parking brake. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it. Dome Lamps The dome lamps will come on when you open the doors. You can also turn the dome lamps on by rotating the thumb wheel, located next to the headlamp knob, all the way up to the second notch. In this position, the dome lamps will remain on whether the doors are opened or closed.

Reading Lamps (Option)

You can use the DOME OVERRIDE button, located below the headlamp knob, to set the dome lamps to automatically come on when the doors are open, or to remain off. To turn the lamps off, push the button once. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will remain off when the doors are open. To return the lamps to automatic operation, push the button again and return it to the “out” position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open the doors.

If your vehicle has reading lamps, press the button next to the lamp to turn the lamp on. Press the button again to turn the lamp off.

Underhood Reel Lamp (Option)

If you have an underhood reel lamp, it is located on the passenger side of the engine compartment. The lamp can be switched on without unreeling the cord. Also, you can use it as a flashlight.

To use the lamp as a flashlight, pull down on the lever located under the lamp, unlocking the lamp and pull the lamp out. The cord will unreel as you pull the lamp. When you are done using the lamp, reel the cord back into the housing by turning the handle. Then, slide the lamp into the holder and press the lever marked PUSH at the bottom of the holder to lock into the slot.

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Mirrors Inside Mirror Push or pull the tab under the mirror to red1 Jce glare from headlamps behind you after dark. Outside Mirrors Adjust your outside mirrors so you can just see the side of your vehicle, and have a clear view of objects behind you. Some mirrors can be folded in to enter narrow doorways.

Electric Outside Rearview Mirrors (Option) If you have electric mirrors, they can be adjusted to point where you want from inside the vehicle.

Select the mirror you want to move by rotating the switch clockwise to adjust the passenger side mirror and counterclockwise to adjust the driver side mirror. The center position is neutral.

Then, adjust the mirror angle by pressing the outer arrows on the switch until the mirror is adjusted where you want it.

Your electric outside rearview mirrors can be defrosted by pressing the switch next to the heater controls. (See "Comfort Controls" in the Index).

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Storage Compartments

Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.

I A CAUTION:

A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

Your front storage compartment is at the center of the instrument panel extension, by the floor. To open the compartment, push down on the handle and pull out.

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Cigarette LightedAshtrays The front ashtray is located in the instrument panel extension, at the center of the instrument panel. Lift up on the ashtray door to open it.

NOTICE:

If you store paper and other things that burn in your ashtrays, they could be set on fire by cigarettes or other smoking materials. That could cause a fire and possibly damage your vehicle. Do not store papers and other things that burn in your ashtrays.

To use the cigarette lighter, push it in all the way, and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself.

Storage compartments may also be included on the inside of each front door.

NOTICE:

Holding a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating can make it overload, damaging the lighter and the heating element. Just push the lighter all the way in and let go. When it’s done, it will pop back by itself.

To remove the front ashtray, pull up on the tab with a key or screwdriver inserted in the tab, and lift the ashtray out.

Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the can also swing them from side to side. Your elastic straps you can use to hold items such as maps. Visor Vanity Mirror (Option) Some visors have illuminated mirrors on them. Pull the visor down and lift the mirror cover (if there is one), to use the mirror.

visors. You visors have

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Instrument Panel

A. B. C. D.

Lamp Controls Air Vents Instrument Cluster Comfort Controls System

E. G. H.

Audio System Auxiliary Power Outlet Cupholder Ashtray

I. J. K. L.

Cigarette Lighter Convenience Tray Horn/Air Bag Turn SignalMultifunction Lever

Instrument Cluster

Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.

Speedometer

old odometer, then it must be. But if it can’t, then it’s set at zero, and a label must be put on the driver’s door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed. Trip Odometer

The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero.

Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. Laws vary as to the procedure that must be followed, so check with your state or provincial vehicle registration office. But generally, if the new odometer can be set to the mileage total of the

To reset the trip odometer, fully press the reset button located near the trip odometer readout. The trip odometer can show either total miles or trip miles by using the push control in the cluster.

Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on briefly when you start the engine just to let you know they’re working. If you are familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed when this happens. Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let you know when there’s a problem with your vehicle.

When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They’re a big help. Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a tone will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is already buckled.

The safety belt light will also come on and stay on‘ for about 20 seconds, then it will flash for about 55 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the tone nor the light will come on.

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Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensor, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” in the Index.

This light will come on when you start your engine, and it will flash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready.

AIR BAG

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away.

The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Charging System Light

This light should come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, before starting the engine, as a check to show you it is working.

After the engine starts, the light should go out. If it stays on or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with your charging system. It could indicate a problem with the alternator drive belt, or some other charging system problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery. If you must drive a short distance with this light on, it helps to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.

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Brake System Warning Light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.

This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.

BRAKE

United States

Canada

If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

A CAUTIOd:

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on after you’ve pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.

When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will also come on when you set your parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means you have a brake problem.

ANTI - LOCK

United States

Canada

With the anti-lock brake system, this light will come on when you start your engine and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal.

If the light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a problem with your regular brakes. See “Brake System Warning Light” earlier in this section. The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Daytime Running Lamps Indicator Light You may have this light on the instrument panel. It will light whenever the DRL are on. It is also a reminder to turn on your headlamps when driving at night. For more details about DRL, see “Headlamps and Vehicle Lighting” in this section.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) (Gasoline Engine)

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems.

SERVICE

ENGINE SOON

This system is called OBD I1 (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. (In Canada, OBD IT is replaced by Enhanced Diagnostics.) The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.

1 NOTICE:

If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.

This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways:

Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been