2000 Chevrolet Impala Owners Manual

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

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, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.

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To move it down, squeeze the release lever and the shoulder belt guide as shown and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release lever to make sure it has locked into position. Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

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

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?

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CAUTION:

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

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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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.

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

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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. Right Front Passenger Position To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section. The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt -- except for one thing. If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt.

Air Bag Systems This part explains the frontal and side impact air bag systems. Your vehicle has air bags -- a frontal air bag for the driver and another frontal air bag for the right front passenger. Your vehicle may also have a side impact air bag for the driver. If your vehicle has a side impact air bag for the driver it will say AIR BAG on the air bag covering on the side of the driver’s seatback closest to the door. Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating frontal air bag. But these air bags must inflate very quickly to do their job and comply with federal regulations. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag systems:

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CAUTION:

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

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CAUTION: (Continued)

Frontal air bags for the driver and right front passenger are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. And, for unrestrained occupants, frontal air bags may provide less protection in frontal crashes than more forceful air bags have provided in the past. The side impact air bag for the driver is designed to inflate only in moderate to severe crashes where something hits the driver’s side of the vehicle. It isn’t designed to inflate in frontal, in rollover or in rear crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.

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CAUTION:

CAUTION:

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

Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children.”

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

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How the Air Bag Systems Work

Where are the air bags?

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

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

The driver’s side impact air bag is in the side of the driver’s seatback closest to the door.

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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 and don’t let seat covers block the inflation path of a side impact air bag.

When should an air bag inflate? The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The frontal air bags are designed to inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 12 to 18 mph (19 to 29 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range.

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If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags are not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. The driver’s side impact air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes involving the driver’s door. The side impact air bag will inflate if the crash severity is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” The threshold level can vary with specific vehicle design. The driver’s side impact air bag is not designed to inflate in frontal or near-frontal impacts, rollovers 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. For frontal air bags, inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal and near-frontal impacts. For the side impact air bag, inflation is determined by the location of the impact and how quickly the side of the vehicle deforms.

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than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions for the driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags, and only in moderate to severe side collisions for the driver’s side impact air bag.

What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, the side of the seatback closest to the door for the driver’s side impact air 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 the vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

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

How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But the frontal air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts, and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. The side impact air bag would not help you in many types of collisions, including frontal or near frontal collisions, rollovers, and rear impacts, primarily because the occupant’s motion is not toward that air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more 1-28

CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door.

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D Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and

diagnostic module, which records information about the frontal air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the system commands air bag inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Some modules also record speed, engine rpm, brake and throttle data. D Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag systems. Improper service can mean that an air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

NOTICE:

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. D Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After an air bag inflates, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

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

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Center Front Passenger Position

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Lap Belt If your vehicle has a front bench seat, someone can sit in the center position.

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

CAUTION:

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

The air bag systems do not need regular maintenance.

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

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

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

Lap-Shoulder Belt All three rear seating positions have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

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

Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

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

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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The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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CAUTION:

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

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

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1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of

the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip.

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:

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2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.

The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.

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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle.

4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as

described in “Rear Seat Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.

To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed.

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

CAUTION:

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

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CAUTION: (Continued)

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

CAUTION:

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

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

child restraints?

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

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

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

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

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When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s manual and the child restraint instructions are important, so if either one of these is not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer.

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

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

CAUTION:

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

CAUTION:

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

Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

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Top Strap

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Anchor the top strap to this bracket. Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself.

Canadian law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Your vehicle has top strap anchors already installed for the rear seating positions. You’ll find them behind the rear seat on the filler panel.

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position

CAUTION:

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

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You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. 2. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

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3. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed.

If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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.

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Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt 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.

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

CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

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

air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.) 2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

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4. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed.

If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

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Larger Children

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Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. D Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out

in a crash.

D Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

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

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CAUTION:

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

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

A: If the child is sitting in a seat next to a window, move the child toward the center of the vehicle. If the child is sitting in the center rear seat passenger position, move the child toward the safety belt buckle. In either case, be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.

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CAUTION:

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

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

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

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

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- NOTES

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Section 2 Features and Controls

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

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Keys Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry (Option) Trunk Theft Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped) Vehicle Customization Settings PasslockR New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Switch Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked

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Windows Tilt Wheel Adjustable Steering Column Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Accessory Power Receptacle Auxiliary Power Connection (Power Drop) Cellular Phone Readiness Package (If Equipped) OnStarR System (Option) Power Sunroof (Option) Universal Transmitter (If Equipped) The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System Instrument Panel Cluster Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators Message Center Driver Information Center (DIC) (Option)

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Keys

CAUTION:

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

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One key is for the ignition, the doors and all other locks.

NOTICE:

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Your vehicle 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.

If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-CHEV-USAR. (In Canada call 1-800-268-6800).

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

From the inside, to lock the door manually, push the lever forward. To unlock, pull the lever rearward.

Door Locks

CAUTION:

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

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Power Door Locks

Press the power door lock switch on the driver’s or front passenger’s door to lock or unlock all doors.

The rear doors do not have power door lock switches. The lever on each rear door works only that door’s lock. It won’t lock or unlock all the doors.

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Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks Programmable automatic power door locks is a standard feature that is intended to provide enhanced security and convenience by automatically locking and unlocking doors. For your vehicle, you may select and program one of the following four operating modes: Mode 1: No automatic door lock or unlock. Mode 2: Automatic all-door lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P); no automatic door unlock. Mode 3: Automatic all-door lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P). Automatic unlock when the transaxle is shifted into PARK (P). Mode 4: Automatic all-door lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P). Automatic driver’s door only unlock when the transaxle is shifted into PARK (P). To change the operating mode of the Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks see “Vehicle Customization Settings” in the Index. Disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for up to a year will not change the programmed mode of the Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks.

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Rear-Door Security Locks Your vehicle is equipped with rear-door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside. To use one of these locks: 1. Open one of the rear doors. 2. On the inside of the rear door will be a lock. Insert your key into this lock and turn it upward. This will engage the safety lock. To disengage the feature, turn the lock downward.

3. Close the door. 4. Do the same thing to the other rear door lock. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open the rear door when the security lock is on, unlock the door and then open the door from the outside. Lockout Protection Feature To protect you from locking your key in the vehicle, this feature stops the power door locks from locking when the keys are in the ignition and a door is open. If a power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all of the doors will lock and then the driver’s door will unlock.

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Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Remote Keyless Entry (Option) If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your remote keyless entry 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.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. 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: D Check to determine if battery replacement is

necessary. See the instructions that follow.

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

D Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be

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

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

qualified technician for service.

Operation

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Press UNLOCK once to unlock the driver’s door and to turn on the interior lamps. (See “Illumination on Remote Activation” in the Index for more details.). Press UNLOCK again within five seconds to unlock the passengers’ doors. To lock all doors, press LOCK. To release the trunk, press the trunk symbol on the remote keyless entry (RKE) transmitter. The trunk will only release if your transaxle is in PARK (P). Operating the RKE transmitter may interact with the Content Theft-Deterrent System (if your vehicle is equipped with this feature). See “Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index.

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Panic Alarm Button This feature allows you to activate an alarm by pressing a button on the RKE transmitter. Your vehicle’s ignition must be off for the instant alarm to work. When you press the horn button on the RKE transmitter, your vehicle’s headlamps will flash, the horn will honk repeatedly and your interior lamps will illuminate attracting attention if you need it. The alarm will continue until: D You press the alarm button on the RKE transmitter a

second time,

D the vehicle’s ignition is in ON, or D an alarm period of 110 seconds has elapsed.

Transmitter Verification (If Equipped) This feature provides feedback to the holder of the RKE transmitter that a command has been received by the keyless entry receiver. The parking lamps will flash on every lock and unlock command and the horn will sound only if the LOCK button is pressed two times or more within five seconds. This allows for silent operation of locking and unlocking, unless a confirming horn chirp is desired. Other options may be selected for this feature (see “Vehicle Customization Settings” in the Index).

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Illumination on Remote Activation This feature provides interior illumination when a remote keyless entry door unlock command is received and executed by your vehicle. The interior lamps will illuminate until your vehicle’s ignition is turned to ON or until an illumination period of 40 seconds has elapsed or the doors are locked with the power lock switch or the RKE transmitter. If a door is opened during the illumination period, the timed illumination will be canceled, and the interior lamps will remain on since a door is open. 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 four transmitters matched to it.

Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about three 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.

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To replace your battery: 1. Insert a flat object like a dime into the slot on the back of the transmitter. Gently pry apart the front and back.

2. Gently pry the battery out of the transmitter. Do not

use a metal object.

3. Put the new battery into the transmitter as shown on the

transmitter (use type CR2032 battery or equivalent).

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

5. Resynchronize and then test the transmitter.

NOTICE:

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

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Resynchronization After you have changed the battery in your transmitter, you will need to resynchronize the transmitter. To do this, press the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter together and hold for approximately seven seconds or until three brief horn chirps are heard. Trunk

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid: D Make sure all other windows are shut. D Turn the fan on your heating or cooling

system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index.

D If you have air outlets on or under the

instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

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

Trunk Lock To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the key and turn it. You can also press the car symbol on your remote keyless entry transmitter. Remote Trunk Release

You can also unlock the trunk from inside the vehicle. Press the button located below the headlamp control knob on the underside of the dashboard. The shift lever must be in PARK (P) for the remote trunk release button to work.

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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? D If possible, park in a busy, well lit area. D Put your valuables in a storage area, like your

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

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

transmitter with you.

Content Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a content theft-deterrent alarm system. With this system, a light on the radio will flash. This light reminds you to activate the theft-deterrent system. Here’s how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or the

remote keyless entry transmitter. The SECURITY light should come on and stay on. If using the remote keyless entry transmitter, the door does not need to be open.

3. Close all doors. The SECURITY light will slowly

flash once the system is armed.

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Once armed, the alarm will go off if someone tries to enter the vehicle (without using the remote keyless entry transmitter or a key) or turns the ignition on with an incorrect key. The horn will sound and your vehicle’s parking lamps will flash for 110 seconds. When the alarm is armed, the trunk may be opened with the remote keyless entry transmitter. If you use the key to open the trunk, the alarm will sound. Arming with the Power Lock Switch Your alarm system will arm when you use either power lock switch to lock the doors while any door or the trunk is open and the key is removed from the ignition. The SECURITY light flashes quickly to let you know when the system is ready to arm with the power door lock switches. The SECURITY light will stop flashing and stay on when you press the rear of the power lock switch, to let you know the system is arming. After all doors and the trunk are closed and locked, the SECURITY light will go off to let you know the system is armed.

Arming with the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Your alarm system will arm when you use your remote keyless entry transmitter to lock the doors, if the key is not in the ignition. The security light will turn on to let you know the system is arming. After all doors and the trunk are closed and locked, the security light will begin flashing at a very slow rate to let you know the system is armed. Disarming with the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Your alarm system will disarm when you use your remote keyless entry transmitter to unlock the doors. The security light will flash to let you know the system is no longer armed. Disarming with Your Key Your alarm system will disarm when you use your key to unlock the doors. The security light will flash to let you know the system is no longer armed.

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Vehicle Customization Settings Some of your vehicle’s convenience features can be reset or customized to perform according to your preference. Customization cannot be changed with the AM-FM Stereo radio. See your dealer to have the settings changed. The features you can program depend upon the options that came with your vehicle. The following list shows the features that can be reset or customized along with the option you need to program that feature: D Settings (Available for All) D Oil Life Reset (Available for All) D Low Tire Pressure Reset (If Equipped) D Delayed Headlamp Illumination (Available for All) D Automatic Door Lock and Unlock (Available for All) D Remote Visual Verification (Available with Remote

Keyless Entry)

D Remote Audible Verification (Available with Remote

Keyless Entry)

D Content Theft Operation (If Equipped with Content

Theft System)

D Trunk Jamb (If Equipped with Content Theft System) D Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Programming

(Available with Remote Keyless Entry)

D Horn Chirp On Timer (Available with Remote

Keyless Entry)

D Return to Original Factory Settings (Available for All) D Exit Vehicle Customization Mode To reset or customize your vehicle’s features, you must first enter the vehicle customization main menu. To enter the main menu: 1. Turn the ignition to ACC or ON and the radio to off. 2. Press and hold the DISP button on the radio for at

least five seconds until SETTINGS is displayed.

3. Press the SEEK up or down arrows to scroll through

each available feature on your main menu.

4. Press the PREV or NEXT buttons to scroll through the lower menu. An asterisk will appear next to the item that is the current setting.

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The following information shows how to reset or customize features after entering the main menu: SETTINGS - Display Current Settings OIL LIFE - Oil Life Reset: This feature allows you to reset the GM Oil Life Systemt after an oil change, see “Engine Oil” in the Index. Be careful not to reset the OIL LIFE accidentally at any time other than when the oil has been changed. It can’t be reset accurately until the next oil change. To clear the CHANGE ENGINE OIL light from the instrument cluster and reset the oil life monitor: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until OIL

LIFE appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. RESET will then be displayed.

3. Press the DISP button to reset. A chime will be heard

to verify the new setting and DONE will be displayed for one second.

TIRE MON (Check Tire Pressure Reset): This feature allows you to reset the tire pressure monitor after checking all tire pressures, see “Tires” in the Index. To clear the LOW TIRE PRESSURE light from the instrument cluster and reset the check tire pressure monitor: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

TIRE MON appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. RESET will be displayed.

3. Press the DISP reset. A chime will be heard to

verify the new setting and DONE will be displayed for one second.

LT DELAY (Delayed Headlamp Illumination): This feature allows the vehicle’s headlamps and parking lamps to stay on for a fixed amount of time after exiting the vehicle. To customize delayed headlamp illumination: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

LT DELAY appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, through the following options: D OFF - Turns feature off. D 30 SEC - 30 seconds. D 60 SEC - 60 seconds.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

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FOB LIGHT (Remote Visual Verification): This feature allows the exterior lights to flash when the remote keyless entry transmitter is used to lock or unlock the vehicle. To customize remote visual verification: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

FOB LIGHT appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. Scroll through the following options: D OFF - Turns feature off. D ON - One flash for each remote lock/two flashes

for each remote unlock.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. A new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

If your vehicle is equipped with the content theft-deterrent system, the first time the remote unlock is pressed three flashes will be seen to indicate an alarm condition has occurred since last arming. See “Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index.

AUTOLOCK (Automatic Door Lock and Unlock): With the ignition in ON and the vehicle’s doors closed, this feature allows the vehicle doors to automatically lock and unlock when the driver shifts the vehicle’s transaxle into and out of PARK (P). To customize the automatic door lock and unlock: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

AUTOLOCK appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. Scroll through the following options: D OFF - Turns feature off. D LCK ONLY - Automatic door lock on/automatic

door unlock off.

D DRVR UNL - Automatic door lock on/automatic

door unlock on (driver’s door only).

D ALL UNL - Automatic door lock on/automatic

door unlock on.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

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FOB HORN (Remote Audible Verification): This feature allows the horn to chirp when the remote keyless entry transmitter is used to lock or unlock the vehicle. To customize remote audible verification 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

FOB HORN appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. Scroll through the following options: D OFF - Turns feature off. D PARTIAL - One chirp for second, third, etc.

remote lock/no chirps for remote unlock.

D FULL - One chirp for each remote lock/two

chirps for each remote unlock.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

If your vehicle is equipped with the content theft-deterrent system, the first time the remote unlock is pressed three chirps will be heard to indicate an alarm condition has occurred since last arming. See “Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index.

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ALARM (Content Theft Operation): This feature allows the content theft-deterrent system to be turned on or off. To customize the content theft-deterrent system: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

ALARM appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. Scroll through the following options: D ALRM OFF - Turns feature off. D ALRM ON - Turns feature on.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

4. Press the SEEK button until RETURN is displayed,

then press the DISP button to return to the main menu.

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TRNKJAMB (Trunk Jamb): This feature allows the content theft system trunk lock sensor to be disabled or enabled. To customize the trunk lock sensor: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

TRNKJAMB appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. Scroll through the following options: D TRNK OFF - Turns feature off. D TRNK ON - Turns feature on.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

CHIRP (Horn Chirp Timer): This feature allows you to choose between short or long horn chirp sounds when the remote keyless entry transmitter is used. To customize the length of horn chirps: 1. Scroll until CHIRP appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. Scroll through the following options: D SHORT - Short Chirp (16 msec) D LONG - Long Chirp (32 msec)

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

ORIG SET (Return to the Original Settings): This feature allows you to return all feature customization settings back to their original factory settings. To reset: 1. Scroll until ORIG SET appears on the display. 2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. Scroll through the following options: D SET ALL - Returns to factory settings.

3. With your preference displayed, press the DISP

button to select. A chime will be heard to verify the new setting. The new selection will be displayed with an asterisk for one second.

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FOB PROG (Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Programming): This feature allows you to match the remote keyless entry transmitter to your vehicle. To match the transmitter: 1. Scroll, using the SEEK up or down arrows, until

FOB PROG appears on the display.

2. Press the PREV or NEXT button to enter the

submenu. The current selection will have an asterisk next to it. BEGIN will be displayed.

3. Press the DISP button to start programming. When the message PUSH FOB flashes, press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the first transmitter at the same time for 15 seconds. A chime will be heard to verify the transmitter is learned.

4. Repeat Step 3 for each additional transmitter. EXIT (Exit Feature Customization Mode): This feature allows you to exit the vehicle customization programming. To exit: D Scroll until EXIT appears on the display. D Press the DISP button to exit programming.

A chime will be heard to verify the exit.

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PasslockR Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system. Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. Passlock enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a valid key. If a correct key is not used or the ignition lock cylinder is tampered with, fuel is disabled. During normal operation, the SECURITY message will go off approximately five seconds after the key is turned to the ON ignition position. If the engine stalls and the SECURITY message flashes, wait until the light stops flashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release the key from START as soon as the engine starts. If the engine is running and the SECURITY message comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock system is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock at this time. You may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). See your dealer for service. In an emergency, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-CHEV-USAR (1-800-243-8872). (In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.)

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New Vehicle “Break-In”

Ignition Switch

NOTICE:

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

D Avoid making hard stops for the first

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The ignition switch is located on the instrument panel, to the right of the steering column. With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions.

OFF:The only position from which you can remove the key. Removing the key locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transaxle.

200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings.

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

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

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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.

ACC (ACCESSORY): This is an operation in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. With the key in this position., the automatic transaxle and steering column will unlock. ON: This is the position to which the switch returns after you start the engine and release the switch. The switch stays in ON 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 warning lights.

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

NOTICE:

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

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Starting Your 3400 V6 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

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

NOTICE:

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

2.

If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in START. If it doesn’t start in three seconds (or starts but then stops), push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down for 12 more seconds, or until it starts.

3.

If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try this: Wait 15 seconds to let the starter motor cool down. Then push your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor. Hold it there. Then hold the key in START. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal. If the engine still doesn’t start, wait another 15 seconds and repeat this step.

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.

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Starting Your 3800 Series II V6 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

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

NOTICE:

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

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

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

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

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. After waiting about 15 seconds, repeat the normal starting procedure.

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.

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

The cord is attached to the underside of the vehicle’s diagonal brace, which is located above the engine air cleaner assembly.

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.

Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.

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Automatic Transaxle Operation

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

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

Console Shift

Your automatic transaxle may have a shift lever on the steering column or on the console between the seats.

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CAUTION:

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

The above graphic is also displayed on your instrument panel cluster. Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic transaxle vehicles when you’re in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) to protect driveline components from improper operation. There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

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Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in ON. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Release the shift lever button. Then move the shift lever out of PARK (P). See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

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

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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.

CAUTION:

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

NOTICE:

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

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

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

between gears.

D When going down a steep hill. D When driving in non-highway scenarios

(i.e. city streets, etc.).

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.

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

accelerator pedal about halfway down.

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

accelerator pedal all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

NOTICE:

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

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NOTICE:

NOTICE:

Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (90 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (B) or THIRD (3) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your engine.

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 shift lever is in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

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

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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.

NOTICE:

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

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

To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot. When you lift your left foot, the parking brake pedal will follow it to the released position. A warning chime will sound if the parking brake is set, the ignition is on and the shift lever is not in PARK (P).

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

CAUTION:

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

set the parking brake.

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

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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.

D Pull the lever toward you.

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

set the parking brake.

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

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

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

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D Hold in the button on the lever. D Push the lever all the way toward the front of

your vehicle.

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

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

CAUTION:

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

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into the PARK (P) position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it toward you (or, if you have the console shift lever, without first pushing the button). If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

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