1997 Chevrolet Malibu Owners Manual

....................... Circuit Breakers and Fuses 6-55 Cleaner. Air ................................... 6-17 Cleaning ...................................... 6-44 Aluminum Wheels ............................ 6-50 Exterior LampsLenses ........................ 6-49 Fabric ...................................... 6-45 Glass ....................................... 6-47 Inside of Your Chevrolet ....................... 6-44 Instrumentpanel ............................. 6-47 Outside of Your Chevrolet ...................... 6-48 Special Problems ............................. 6-46 Stains ...................................... 6-46 Tires ....................................... 6-50 Vinyl ....................................... 6-46 Wheels ..................................... 6-50 Windshield and Wiper Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-48

Climate Control System ........................... 3-2 Clock. Setting the ................................ 3-7 Comfort Controls ................................ 3-2 Compact Disc Care ............................. 3-24 Compact Disc Player ............................ 3-14 Compact Spare Tire ............................. 5-32 Control of a Vehicle .............................. 4-6 ConvenienceNet ............................... 2-44 Convex Outside Mirror .......................... 2-41 Coolant ....................................... 6-18 Adding ..................................... 6-21 Checking ................................... 6-20 Heater. Engine ............................... 2- 17 SurgeTank .................................. 5-14 Surge Tank Pressure Cap ....................... 6-22 Cooling System ................................ 5-14 Courtesy Transportation ........................... 8-8 Cruise Control ................................. 2-33 CruiseLight ................................... 2-62 Cupholder. Center Console ....................... 2-43 Cupholder. Instrument Panel ...................... 2-43 Cupholder. Rear Seat ............................ 2-43 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone Users ......... 8-4 Customer Assistance Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8- 1 Customer Satisfaction Procedure .................... 8-2

Damage. Finish ............................... 6-51 Damage. Sheet Metal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-50 Daytime Running Lamps ......................... 2-37 ................................... 5-3 Dead Battery

3-13

Defects. Reporting Safety ........................ 8-10 Defensive Driving ............................... 4-2 .......................... Defogger. Rear Window 3-5 Defogging ..................................... 3-4 Defrosting ..................................... 3-4 ............................ 6-62 Dimen ions. Vehicle ....................... Dolby B Noise Reduction Dome Lamp ................................... 2-39 Dome Lamp Bulb Replacement .................... 6-34 DoorLocks ..................................... 2-4 Drive. Automatic ............................... 2-20 Driver Position ................................. 1-12 Driving City ........................................ 4-19 Defensive .................................... 4-2 Drunken ..................................... 4-3 Freeway .................................... 4-20 InaBlizzard ................................. 4-26 In Foreign Countries ........................... 6-5 In the Rain .................................. 4-16 Night ...................................... 4-15 OnCurves ................................... 4-9 On Grades While Towing a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37 On Hill and Mountain Roads .................... 4-22 On Snow and Ice ............................. 4-25 Throughwater ............................... 4-18 WetRoads .................................. 4-16 Winter ...................................... 4-24 With a Trailer ................................ 4-37 DrunkenDriving ................................ 4-3

Electrical Equipment. Adding ..... 2.15.2.16.3.22. 6.64 Electrical System ............................... 6-54 Engine .................................. 6.10. 6.11 Coolant ..................................... 6-18 Coolant Heater ............................... 2-17 Coolant Levelcheck .......................... 7-37 Coolant Temperature Gage ..................... 2-56 Exhaust ...................... 2.10.2.26.4.27. 4.36 FuseBlock .................................. 6-58 Identification ................................ 6-53 Oil Level Check .............................. 7-37 Overheating ................................. 5-12 Running While Parked ......................... 2-26 Specifications ................................ 6-62 Starting Your ........................... 2- 14. 2. 16 EngineOil .................................... 6-12 Adding ..................................... 6-13 Additives ................................... 6-16 Checking ................................... 6-13 Pressure Warning Light ........................ 2-60 Used ....................................... 6-17 What Kind to Use ............................. 6- 15 Whentochange .............................. 6-16 Ethanol ........................................ 6-4 Exterior Lamps ................................. 2-36

Fabric Cleaning ............................... 6-45 FillingYourTank ................................ 6-5 Filter. Air ..................................... 6-17 Finishcare .................................... 6-49

Frangais

en

Finish Damage ................................. 6-51 First Gear. Automatic Transaxle ................... 2-21 ......................... 5-2 Flashers. Hazard Warning Flash-to-Pass .................................. 2-30 Flat Tire. Changing ............................. 5-20 Fluids and Lubricants ............................ 7-42 FogLmps .................................... 2-38 Following Distance with a Trailer .................. 4-37 Foreign Countries. Fuel ........................... 6-5 .. ........................... FrenchLanguageManual 11 FrontTowing .................................. 5-10 Fuel .......................................... 6-3 Filling Your Tank .............................. 6-5 Gage ....................................... 2-64 In Foreign Countries ........................... 6-5 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ....................... 6-55

Gages

Engine Coolant Temperature .................... 2-56 Fuel ....................................... 2-64 Tachometer .................................. 2-52 Garment Hook ................................. 2-46 GAWR ....................................... 4-31 Gear Positions. Automatic Transaxle ................ 2-19 GloveBox .................................... 2-42 Gross Axle Weight Rating ........................ 4-31 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ...................... 4-31 .. ................................. Guide 11 GVWR ....................................... 4-31

9-4

Halogen Bulbs ................................ 6-29 Hazard Warning Flashers .......................... 5-2 ................................. 1-5 Head Restraints Headlamps .................................... 2-36 Bulb Replacement ............................ 6-29 High& ow Beam Changer ...................... 2-30 OnReminder ................................ 2-36 Wiring ..................................... 6-54 Hearing Impaired. Customer Assistance .............. 8-4 Heating ........................................ 3-4 High-Beam Headlamps .......................... 2-30 Highway Hypnosis .............................. 4-22 Hill and Mountain Roads ......................... 4-22 Hitches. Trailer ................................. 4-36 Hood Checking Things Under ......................... 6-7 Release ...................................... 6-8 HOITI ......................................... 2-28 Hydroplaning .................................. 4- 18

Ignition Positions .............................. 2- 13 Ignition Transaxle Lock Check .................... 7-40 Illuminated EntryLExit ........................... 2-39 Inflation. Tire .................................. 6-36 Inside Daymight Rearview Mirror ................. 2-40 Inspections .................................... 7-41 Brakesystem ................................ 7-41 Exhaust Systems ............................. 7-41 .................. 7-41 Front-Wheel-Drive Axle Boot Front-Wheel-Drive Axle Seal ................... 7-41 Radiator and Heater Hose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-41 Steering .................................... 7-41

Suspension .................................. 7-41 Throttle Linkage .............................. 7-41 Instrument Panel ............................... 2-48 Cleaning .................................... 6-47 Cluster ..................................... 2-50 FuseBlock .................................. 6-55 ............................. 2-38 Intensity Control Interior Lamps ................................. 2-38

.................................... 5-22 Jack. Tire Jump Starting ................................... 5-3

K e y Lock Cylinders Service ..................... 7-38 Keyless Entry System ............................ 2-6 Battery Replacement ........................... 2-8 Operation .................................... 2-7 Synchronization ............................... 6-9 Keys .......................................... 2-2

Labels ....................................... 6-53 Certification ................................. 4-31 Service Parts Identification ..................... 6-53 Tire-Loading Information ...................... 4-30 Vehicle Identification Number ................... 6-53 Lamps ........................................ 2-36 Exterior .................................... 2-36 Fog ........................................ 2-38 Interior ..................................... 2-38 MirrorReading ............................... 2-39 OnReminder ................................ 2-36

9-5

2.61. 6.12

Leaving Your Vehicle ............................. 2-6 Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running ....... 2-24 Lighter ....................................... 2-44 Lights

Air Bag Readiness ....................... 1.22. 2.54 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.56. 4.7 Brake System Warning .................... 2.55. 6.25 Charging System Indicator ...................... 2-54 CheckEngine ................................ 2-57 CheckOil .............................. Cruise ...................................... 2-62 DoorAjar ................................... 2-63 Interior ..................................... 2-38 Low Coolant Warning .................... 2.57. 6.21 LowWash .................................. 2-62 Oil Pressure Warning .......................... 2-60 Passlock@ Warning ........................... 2-6 1 Safety Belt Reminder ...................... Service Vehicle Soon .......................... 2-63 ........................... 4-30 Loading Your Vehicle Lock Out Switch ............................... 2-28 Locks ......................................... 2-4 Cylinders ................................... 7-38 Door ........................................ 2-4 Key Lock Cylinder Service ..................... 7-38 PowerDoor .................................. 2-5 Rear Door Security ............................. 2-5 Low Coolant Warning Light ................. 2.57. 6.21 Lubricants and Fluids ............................ 7-42 Lubrication Service. Body ........................ 7-38

1.8. 2.53

Maintenance. ~ o r m a l Replacement parts ........... 6-62 Maintenance Record ............................ 7-43 Maintenanceschedule ............................ 7-1 Introduction .................................. 7-2 Long Tripmighway Definition ................... 7-6 Long Tripmighway Intervals ..................... 7-6 Owner Checks and Services ..................... 7-37 Periodic Maintenance Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-41 Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ............. 7-42 Scheduled Maintenance Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-4 Selecting the Right Schedule ..................... 7-4 Short TripKity Definition ....................... 7-5 Short TripKity Intervals ........................ 7-5 Maintenance. Underbody ......................... 6-51 Maintenance When Trailer Towing ................. 4-40 Making Turns with a Trailer ...................... 4-38 Malfunction Indicator Lamp ...................... 2-57 ManualFrontSeat ............................... 1-2 Manual Remote Control Mirror .................... 2-40 Methanol ...................................... 6-4 Mirror Reading Lamps ........................... 2-39 Mirrors ....................................... 2-40 Convex Outside .............................. 2-41 Inside Daymight Rearview ..................... 2-40 Manual Remote Control ........................ 2-40 Outside ..................................... 2-40 Power Remote Control ......................... 2-41 Visorvanity ................................. 2-45 Mountain Roads ................................ 4-22 Multifunction Lever ............................. 2-29

9-6

N e t . Convenience .............................. Neutral. Automatic Transaxle ..................... New Vehicle “Break-In” ......................... Night Vision ...................................

2-44 2-20 2- 13 4-15

Odometer .................................... 2-51 Odometer. Trip ................................. 2-51 Off-Road Recovery ............................. 4- 11 Oil. Engine .................................... 6-12 Oil Pressure Warning Light ....................... 2-60 Outside Mirror ................................. 2-40 Overheating Engine ............................. 5-12 Owner Checks and Services ....................... 7-37 Owner Publications. Ordering ..................... 8- 12

Parking

Paint Spotting. Chemical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-51 Park Automatic Transaxle .......................... 2- 19 Shifting Into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-23 Shifting Out of ............................... 2-25 AtNight .................................... 2-12 Brake ...................................... 2-22 Brake Mechanism Check ....................... 7-40 Lots ....................................... 2-12 Over Things That Burn ........................ 2-25 WithaTrailer ................................ 4-39 Passenger Position .............................. 1-2 1 Passing ....................................... 4-12 Passing with a Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-37

Passlock” .................................... 2-12 Passlock” Warning Light ........................ 2-61 Periodic Maintenance Inspections .................. 7-41 Power Accessory Outlet ............................. 2-46 DoorLocks ................................... 2-5 Option Fuses ................................ 6-54 Remote Control Mirror ........................ 2-41 Seat ......................................... 1-3 Steering ..................................... 4-9 Steering Fluid ................................ 6-22 Windows ................................... 2-27 Pregnancy. Use of Safety Belts .................... 1-20 ............................ 5-2 Problems on the Road Publications. Service and Owner ................... 8-12

Radiator ..................................... 5-14 Radio Reception ................................ 3-22 Radios ........................................ 3-7 Rain, Driving In ................................ 4-16 Rear ........................... 2-5 Door Security Locks Outside Seat Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27 Safety Belt Comfort Guides ..................... 1-30 Seatpassengers .............................. 1-27 Towing ..................................... 5-11 Window Defogger ............................. 3-5 Rearview Mirror ................................ 2-40 Inside Daymight ............................. 2-40 Reclining Front Seatbacks ......................... 1-4 Recreational Vehicle Towing ...................... 4-28

9-7

...

6-62

Replacement

Refrigerants. Air Conditioning Remote

.................... .......................... Cassette Tape Player 3- 18 Trunk Release ................................ 2- 10 Trunk Release Lockout ........................ 2- 10 Bulbs ...................................... 6-61 Parts ....................................... 6-62 Wheel ...................................... 6-42 Replacing Safety Belts ........................... 1-47 Reporting Safety Defects ......................... 8- 10 Restraints Checking ................................... 1-47 Child ....................................... 1-35 Head ........................................ 1-5 Replacing Parts After a Crash ................... 1-47 Systemcheck ................................ 7-38 Reverse. Automatic Transaxle ..................... 2- 19 .................... Right Front Passenger Position 1-21 Roadside Assistance .............................. 8-5 Roadside Assistance. Canadian ..................... 8-7 ........................... 5-33 Rocking Your Vehicle Rotation. Tires ................................. 6-37

safety Belt Extender ............................ 1-47 Safety Belt Reminder Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.8. 2.53 .................................... Safety Belts 1-7 Adults ...................................... 1-12 Care ....................................... 6-47 Center Rear Passenger Position .................. 1-33 Children .................................... 1-34

9-8

1-12 1-47 1-12

1-16. 1-45. 1-46

....................

Driver Position ............................... Extender .................................... How to Wear Properly ......................... Incorrect Usage LapBelt .................................... 1-33 Lap-Shoulder ........................... 1 . 12. 1-27 Larger Children .............................. 1-44 Passenger Position ............................ 1-21 Questions and Answers ........................ 1-11 Rear Comfort Guides .......................... 1-30 Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27 Rear Seat Passengers .......................... 1-27 Reminder Light .......................... 1-8. 2-53 Replacing After a Crash ........................ 1-47 Right Front Passenger Position . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21 Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster ................... 1-15 Smaller Children and Babies .................... 1-34 Use During Pregnancy ......................... 1-20 WhyTheyWork ............................... 1-8 Safety Chains .................................. 4-36 ........................ 8-10 Safety Defects. Reporting Safety Warnings and Symbols ....................... vii Scheduled Maintenance Services .................... 7-4 Seat Adjuster .............................. 1-2. 1-47 Seatback. Reclining Front ......................... 1-4 Seats ManualFront ................................. Power ....................................... Rear ........................................ Restraint Systems .............................. Seat Controls ................................. Securing a Child Restraint ......................

1-2 1-3 1-5 1-2 1-2 1-38

Second Gear. Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21 Service ........................................ 6-2 Bulletins. Ordering ............................ 8- 12 Manuals. Ordering ............................ 8- 12 Parts Identification Label ....................... 6-53 Publications. Ordering ......................... 8- 12 Work. Doing Your Own ......................... 6-2 Service and Appearance Care ...................... 6-2 Service and Owner Publications ................... 8-12 Ordering in Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8- 12 Service Publications ............................. 8- 12 Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . 1-27 Sheet Metal Damage ............................ 6-50 ShiftLever .................................... 2-23 Shifting Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2- 19 Into Park (P) ................................. 2-23 Out of Park .................................. 2-25 1 - 15 Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster ..................... SignalingTurns ................................ 2-29 Skidding ...................................... 4- 13 Sound Equipment. Adding . . . . . . . . . 2- 15.2-16.3-22. 6-54 Spare Tire. Compact ............................. 5-32 Specifications and Capacities ...................... 6-61 Specifications. Engine ........................... 6-62 Speech Impaired. Customer Assistance ............... 8-4 Speedometer ................................... 2-51 SRS ......................................... 1-21 Stains. Cleaning ................................ 6-46 Starter Switch Check ............................ 7-39 Starting Your Engine ............................ 2-14 Steam ........................................ 5-12

Steering ....................................... 4-9 In Emergencies ............................... 4-10 Power ....................................... 4-9 Tips ......................................... 4-9 Wheel, Tilt .................................. 2-28 Storage Compartments ........................... 2-42 Storage, Vehicle ................................ 6-29 Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-33 SunVisors .................................... 2-45 Sunroof ....................................... 2-47 Supplemental Restraint System .................... 1-21 Surge Tank Coolant ..................................... How to Add Coolant .......................... Pressure Cap ................................. Symbols, Vehicle ................................ Synchronization .................................

5-14 5-16 6-22 viii 2-9

Tachometer .................................. 2-52 Taillamp Bulb Replacement ....................... 6-32 ............................... 3-23 Tape Player Care Theft ......................................... 2-11 Theft-Deterrent Feature. CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19 THEFTLOCK TM ................................ 3-19 Thermostat .................................... 6-22 Third Gear. Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-21 Tilt Steering Wheel ............................. 2-28 ................................ 3-7 Time. Setting the Tirechains .................................... 6-43 TireLoading ................................... 4-30 Tire-Loading Information Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30

9-9

Tires ......................................... 6-35 Alignment and Balance ........................ 6-42 Buying New ................................. 6-39 Chains ..................................... 6-43 ChangingaFlat .............................. 5-20 Cleaning .................................... 6-50 Compact Spare ............................... 5-32 Inflation .................................... 6-36 Inflation Check ............................... 7-37 Inspection and Rotation ........................ 6-37 Loading .................................... 4-30 Pressure .................................... 6-36 Temperature ................................. 6-41 Traction .................................... 6-4 1 Treadwear ................................... 6-4 1 Uniform Quality Grading ....................... 6-40 Used Replacement Wheel ...................... 6-43 .............................. 6-39 Wear Indicators Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-42 ....................... 6-39 When It’s Time for New TopStrap ..................................... 1-37 TorqueLock ................................... 2-24 Torque. Wheel Nut ......................... 5-29. 6-61 Towing

From the Front ............................... 4-28 ............................... 4-30 From the Rear Recreational Vehicle .......................... 4-28 Towing a Trailer ................................ 4-32 Towing Your Vehicle ............................. 5-8 Towing Your Vehicle From the Front ............... 4-28 Towing Your Vehicle From the Rear ................ 4-30

9-10

Trailer

Backing Up with ............................. 4-37 Brakes ..................................... 4-36 Driving on Grades ............................ 4-37 Drivingwitha ............................... 4-37 Following Distance with ....................... 4-37 Hitches ..................................... 4-36 Maintenance When Towing ..................... 4-40 Making Turns ................................ 4-38 ParkingonHills .............................. 4-39 Passing with ................................. 4-37 Safety Chains ................... ............ 4-36 Tongueweight ............................... 4-35 Total Weight on Tires .......................... 4-36 Towing ..................................... 4-32 Turn Signals ................................. 4-38 Weight ..................................... 4-34 Automatic ................................... 6-18 Ignition Lock Check 7-40 ................. 2-6 Transmitters. Keyless Entry System Transportation. Courtesy .......................... 8-8 Trip Odometer ................................. 2-51 Trunk ........................................ 2-10 TrUnk Lamp ...................................... 2-39 ...................... 2-10 Release Lockout. Remote Release. Remote .............................. 2-10 TTYUsers ..................................... 8-4 Turn Signal and Lane Change Signals ............... 2-29 Turn Signal On Chime ........................... 2-30 Turn SignaVMultifunction Lever ................... 2-29 Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer ................ 4-38

..........................

Transaxle

Underbody Hushing Service ..................... 7-40 Underbody Maintenance ......................... 6-51

Vehicle

Control ...................................... 4-6 Damage Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii Dimensions ................................. 6-62 Identification Number ......................... 6-53 Loading .................................... 4-30 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-29 Ventilation System ............................... 3-6 Visor Vanity Mirrors ............................ 2-45 Visors. Sun .................................... 2-45

w a r n i n g Devices ............................... 5-2 Warning Eights. Gages and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-52 ........................ 6-23 Washer Fluid. Windshield ........................... 6-48 Washing Your Vehicle Weatherstrips .................................. 6-48

Wheel

Alignment .................................. 6-42 Nut Torque ............................. 5.29. 6.61 Replacement ................................. 6-42 Used Replacement ............................ 6-43 Wrench ..................................... 5-22 Windows ..................................... 2-27 Auto-Down ................................. 2-28 ............................. 2-28 Lock Out Switch Power ...................................... 2-27 Windshield Washer ............................. 2-32 Fluid .................................. 2.32. 6.23 Fluid Level Check ............................ 7-37 ......................... 2.30. 6.54 Bladecheck ................................. 7-38 Blade Replacement ........................... 6-35 Winter Driving ................................. 4-24 Wiring. Headlamp .............................. 6-54 Wrecker Towing ................................. 5-8 Wrench. Wheel ................................. 5-22

Windshield Wiper

9-11

0 Service Station Checkpoints

COOLANT

SURGE TANK 2.4L

ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

P6-12

FUEL

3100 ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK

SECONDARY

I, 1

WINDSHIELD /

FLUID RESERVOIR

P6-23

BAlTERY

P6-28

HOOD RELEASE P6-8 TRUNK RELEASE P2-10

TIRES P6-35

For detailed information, refer to the page number listed, or see the Index in the back of the owner’s manual. 9-12

I

' c

- 1

1997 1997

1997 1997

1997 997

1997

- - - U I U E c HEVROLE'

1, 997

-7 E

a The 1997 Chevrolet Malibu Owner’s Manual

.*

1-1

2-1

3-1

4- 1

5- 1

6-1

7-1

8-1

9- 1

Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your Chevrolet. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system. Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how Problems on the Road This section tells what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a Service and Appearance Care Here the manual tells you how to keep your Chevrolet running properly and looking good. Maintenance Schedule This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Chevrolet for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-10. Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

to drive under different conditions.

flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

GM -

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem and the name MALIBU are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your Chevrolet, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 10288097 A First Edition ii

We support voluntary technician certification.

r EA

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

National Institute for

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

EXCELLENCE

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

DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7

@Copyright Genzral Motors Corporation 1996 All Rights Reserved

The Heritage of Chevrolet

Welcome to the largest autumotive family in the world -- the family of Chevrolet owners. You have selected a vehicle designed, engineered and crafted by teamwork, a

vehicle backed by a proud history of performance and value. Since the first “Classic Six” rolled off the line in 19 12, more than 110 million Chevrolet cars and trucks have

The dynamic William C. “Billy” Durant shifted gears from making carriages to making cars, forming half the team that gave birth to Chevrolet.

worn the Chevrolet marque. That kind of reception from auto owners is unmatched by any other car manufacturer in the world.

.-

Louis Chevrolet, the other half of the team, at the wheel of his experimental “Classic Six, ” which entered production in I91 2. That year 2999 vehicles were produced.

The Chevrolet blend of value and performance has become an American tradition -- whether bred for the racetrack like the legendary Corvette and Camaro, or

created for the pleasure of the open road.

Every decade, Chevrolet

has reinforced its heritage of affordable performance with quality and value crafted

into each vehicle. It's not surprising that for 80 years "Genuine Chevrolet" has been America's automobile.

We're proud to continue that

heritage in your Chevrolet,

In 1932 Chevrolet introduced the Synchro-Mesh transmission and offered a host of accessories -- including such niceties as a clock!

iv

The legacy of America$ began in 1953, when 319

favorite hand-assembled

sportscar

white Corvettes launched first use of a fiberglass

in car:

, , - , , - - - - - - - I

body production

I

I The 1957 Chevy started a romance with the American

public -- and was powered by an available fuel-injected V8.

and we are pledged to make ownership of your Chevl-olet an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

60's automotive excitement included Chevrolet landmarks like the Corvette Sting Ray, the sporty Camaro, and powerplants like the legendary 327 V8.

Your new Chevrolet continues a tradition of quality and value.

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

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

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

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

vi

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

I NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

it could

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

vii

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

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

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

DOOR LOCK UNLOCK

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC

BURNS

AVO1 D SPARKS OR FLAMES

,111,

SPARK OR FLAME

COULD [-sr=l

EXPLODE BAlTERY

...

These symbols have to do with your lamps:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

WINDSHIELD WIPER

SIGNALS @ e

TURN

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

WINDOW DEFOGGER

$0

VENTILATING FAN

FOG LAMPS

COOLANT

ENGINE OIL PRESSURE

ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE P

LIGHTER

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

TEMP

ENGINE t COOLANT kt- CHARGING I-1 BRAKE (@)

BAlTERY

SYSTEM

HORN )cr SPEAKER Er e, (a)

FUEL

Section 1 Seats and Seat Restraints

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Chevrolet and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.

1-2 1-2 1-3 1-4 1-5 1-8 1-11

1-12 1-15

Seats and Controls Manual Seats Power Seats Reclining Front Seatbacks Rear Seats Why Safety Belts Work Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

1-20 1-23 1-30 1-34 1-36

1-37 1-47 1-47 1-47

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Questions and Answers About Air Bags Safety Belt Comfort Guides How to Use Child Restraints Important Information for Buckling Children in Child Restraints Child Restraint Top Straps How to Obtain a Safety Belt Extender Checking Your Restraint Systems Replacing Parts After a Crash

-----

1-1

Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints.

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver's seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don't want to. Adjust the driver's seat only when the vehicle is not moving.

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

the lever and

1-2

6-Way Power Seat (If Equipped)

Move the seat higher by lifting and holding the bottom of the button. Lower the seat by pushing and holding the top of the button. To move the seat forward, push the rear of the button forward. To move the seat backward, push the front of the button rearward. Raise the front of the seat by lifting and holding the bottom front end of the button. Lower the front of the seat by pushing and holding the bottom of the front end of the button. Raise the rear of the seat by lifting and holding the bottom rear of the button. Lower the rear of the seat by pushing and holding the top rear of the button.

The power seat button is located on the lower, left side of the driver’s seat. This button allows you to move the seat up, down, forward and backward. It will also move the front of the seat up or down and the rear of the seat up or down.

1-3

Reclining Front Seatbacks

To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side the seat and move the seatback Release the lever to lock the seatback. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to an upright position.

to where you want it.

of

But don’t have a seatback reclined is moving.

if your vehicle

1-4

I

if you buckle

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.

CAUTION: (Continued)

For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash.

1-5

Rear Seats Folding Rear Seat (If Equipped)

To open the folding rear seat, open the trunk and pull one or both of the tethers located on the left side of the trunk. The leaf-hand tether will open the larger side of the seatback. The right-hand tether will open the smaller side of the seatback. Once a tether is pulled, the seatback can be pushed open through the trunk, or pulled open from inside the vehicle. To close the folding rear seat from inside the car, push the seatback up until you hear a click. Then pull on the seatback to make sure it is secure.

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

;), or air bag system.

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

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

1-7

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

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

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter . .. a lot!

so

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s on wheels.

just a seat

1-8

Put someone on it.

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

1-9

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

or the instrument panel ...

1-10

.. .

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers @ Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.

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

@ If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to

wear safety belts?

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

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

1-11

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

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.

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

so you can sit up straight.

1-12

3. 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.

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

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

1-13

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

1-14

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.

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

10 move it down, squeeze the release button and move the 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 try to move it down without squeezing the release button 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.

to where you want it,

1-15

Q: What’s wrong with this?

1 \ 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.

1-16

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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.

1-17

@’ What’s wrong with this?

A 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.

1-18

@' What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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

1-19

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.

1-20

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

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to malung safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your Chevrolet has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger.

Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

‘ A CAUTION:

- - -

- I

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if

you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you

have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are “supplemental restraints’’ to the safety belts. All air bags are designed to work with safety belts, but don’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a

safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an

air bag for that person.

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.

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

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

1-22

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.

1-23

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

When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with speci€ic 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.

1-24

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

What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the 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 from leaving the vehicle.

it stop people

When an air bag inflates, therc 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.

1-25

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.

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.

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they for your air bag inflate, you’ll need some new parts 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. 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.

1-26

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Chevrolet Air bags affect how your Chevrolet 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 Chevrolet dealer and the Malibu 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.

I A CAUTION: F - For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid yellow 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.

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

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

1-27

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.

1-28

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.

I

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

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.

1-29

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.

A CAUTION:

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

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

1-30

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:

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.

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.

1-31

I

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.

4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as

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

1-32

Lap Belt

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. Center Passenger Position

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

1-33

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 Childran snd Pa.bies

I 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. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a low on the hips, as it regular belt might not stay 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.

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the ‘SMe 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 so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

is positioned

1-34

CAr'"'3N:

(Continued)

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-1b. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

1-35

/11 CAUTION: vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much -- until a

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a

crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crash

CAUTION: (Continued)

r

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 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:

the back of a

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

1-36

Top Strap

6 E

it should be

If your child restraint has a top strap, anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you it in for you. If you can ask your Chevrolet dealer to put want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. Canadian law requires that child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a top strap, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you. In Canada, this work will be done for you free of charge. Or, you may install the anchor yourself using the instructions provided in the kit.

1-37

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

l 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.

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

if needed.

1-38

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

5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while

you push down on the child restraint.

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.

1-39

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position

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

if the child

1.

2.

1-40

4.

3.

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

as the

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.

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.

1-41

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

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

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

PL CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be