1996 Chevrolet S10 Owners Manual

carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

I b CAUTION: -

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

to PARK (P).

If you have four-wheel drive with a manual transfer case shift lever and your transfer case is in NEUTRAL (N), your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N). Always set your parking brake. Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer’’ in the Index.

Windows Manual Windows Turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower your m&ual side door windows. Power Windows (Option) If you have the optional power windows, the controls are on each of the side doors. Your power windows will only work when the ignition has been turned to RUN. The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger’s window as well.

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Express-Down Window The driver’s window switch also has an express-down feature that allows you to lower it without holding the window switch. Hold the driver’s window switch down for more than a 1/2 second to activate the express-down feature. Lightly tap the switch to open the window slightly. The express-down feature can be interrupted at any time by pressing the up arrow end of the switch. Swing-Out Windows (Extended Cab)

To open a rear swing-out window, pull the latch toward the front of the vehicle and then push the latch out and rearward. When you close the window, be sure the latch catches.

Press the side of the switch with the down arrow to lower the window. Press the side of the switch with the up arrow to raise the window.

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Sliding Rear Window (Option)

Tilt Wheel (Option)

If you have the tilt steering wheel, you should adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle.

Squeeze the latch in the center of the window and slide the glass to open it. When you close the window, be sure the latch catches. Horn Press the steering wheel pad to sound the horn.

To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place. Do not adjust the steering wheel while driving.

Turn SignaVMultifunction Lever

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: 0 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator 0 Headlamp HighLow Beam Changer 0 Windshield Wipers Windshield Washer

0 Cruise Control (Option)

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

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

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it. As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’t flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal.

If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs. If you have a trailer towing option with added wiring for the trailer lamps, a different turn signal flasher is used. With this flasher installed, the signal indicator will flash even if a turn signal bulb is burned out. Check the front and rear turn signal lamps regularly to make sure they are working. Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low-beam to high or high to low, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you. Then release it.

When the high-beam headlamps are on, this indicator light on the instrument panel also will be on.

Windshield Wipers

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

For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one wipe. If you want more wipes, hold the band on MIST longer. You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to LOW, the shorter the delay. For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the LOW position. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to HIGH. To stop the wipers, move the band to the OFF position.

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Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become worn or damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever there’s a paddle marked with the windshield washer symbol and the word PUSH. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, press the paddle. The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed.

Cruise Control (Option)

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

the

and

If you an have automatic

transmission your

brakes, If you have a manual transmission and you apply your brakes or push the clutch pedal, the cruise control will shut off.

cruise control will

shut

off.

you apply

-’\ C SJTIC -J:

- -

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

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

Setting Cruise Control

‘ A CAUTION:

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

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

3. Press in the SET button at the end of the lever and release it.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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You'll go right back up to your chosen, speed and stay there. Remember, if you hold the switch at R/A longer than a 112 second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. You could be startled and even lose control. So unless you want to go faster, don't hold the switch at WA.,

Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may want to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills.

Ending Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:

Step lightly on the brake pedal or push the clutch pedal, if you have a manual transmission. Move the cruise switch to OFF.

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

Lamps

The switches are on the driver’s side of your instrument panel.

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Press the top switch with the parking lamps symbol on it to turn on: 0 Parking Lamps 0 Sidemarker Lamps

Taillamps

0 License Plate Lamps 0 Instrument Panel Lights

Transfer Case Indicator Light (if you have one)

Press the bottom switch with the master lamps symbol on it to turn on all the lamps listed above as well as the headlamps. Press the side of the switch marked OFF to turn off your lamps.

Lamps On Reminder A reminder tone will sound when your headlamps or parking lamps and interior lamps are turned on and your ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY. To turn the tone off, press the OFF switch. Daytime Running Lamps (If So Equipped) Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will make your headlamps come on at reduced brightness when: 0 the ignition is on,

the headlamp switch is off, and the parking brake is released.

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When the DRL are on, only your headlamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. The instrument panel won’t be lit up either. When it begins to get dark, your DRL indicator light is a reminder to turn your headlamp switch on. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When you turn the headlamp switch off, the regular lamps will go off, and your headlamps will change to the reduced brightness of DRL. To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, set the parking brake. The DRL will stay off until you release the parking brake. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.

Fog Lamps (Option)

Use your fog lamps for better vision in foggy or misty conditions. Your parking lamps or low-beam headlamps must be on for your fog lamps to work. The fog lamp switch is on the instrument panel under the lamp switches.

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Press the side of the switch with the fog lamp symbol to turn the fog lamps on. Press OFF to turn them off. A light will glow in the switch when the fog lamps are on. Remember, fog lamps alone will not give off as much light as your headlamps. Never use your fog lamps in the dark without turning on your headlamps. Fog lamps will go off whenever your high-beam headlamps come on. When the high-beam headlamps go off, the fog lamps will come on again. Interior Lamps Brightness Control Turn the switch next to the headlamp switch up to make your instrument panel and transfer case lights brighter. Turn the switch all the way up to turn on the interior lamps.

Front Map Lamps (Option) If your vehicle has optional front map lamps, they are located on the inside rearview mirror. They will automatically come on for approximately 20 seconds when either front door is opened or unlocked with the Keyless Entry System, if so equipped, or until the ignition key is turned to RUN or ACCESSORY. The lamps will also stay on for approximately 15 seconds after you exit the vehicle. They will also stay on for 15 seconds when the INT LIGHTS switch on the instrument panel is turned on then off, while the ignition is off. You can also turn the lamps on and off by pressing the switch near each lamp. Dome Lamp Turn the INT LIGHTS dimmer switch up until it clicks to turn on the dome lamp.

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Mirrors Inside DayNight Rearview Mirror

Press the tab under the mirror to reduce glare from headlamps behind you.

Outside Manual Adjust Mirror Adjust your outside mirrors so you can just see the side of your vehicle. You can fold them before entering a car wash. Pull the mirrors in toward the vehicle. Push the mirrors back out when finished. Power Remote Control Mirror

The control is located on the driver's door armrest. Turn the control to L or R to choose the mirror, then press the arrows on the outside switch ring to adjust the mirror.

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

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

Storage Compartments Glove Box To open your glove box, squeeze the lever at the top of the glove box and lower the door. Two cup depressions are provided for your convenience, but the glove box should not be open while driving. Door Storage You will find a storage compartment on each door.

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Front Storage Area

If your vehicle has this console compartment, squeeze the front lever while lifting the top to open it. You can store cassettes in the slots in the front of the compartment. If you have a compact disc player, you may store compact discs inside the console.

If your vehicle has the center armrest compartment, lift the cover to expose the storage area which includes slots for cassettes and a coinholder. Some vehicles may have a storage pocket on the back of the bucket or 60140 bench seats.

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Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter The front ashtray must be completely pulled out to open position before the ashtray cover opens and smoking material can be deposited.

NOTICE:

Don’t put papers and other things that burn into your ashtray. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire causing damage.

To remove the front ashtray, lift the release tab as high as possible, then remove the tray. To use the lighter, press it in all the way, and When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself.

let go.

NOTICE:

Don’t hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating. If you do, it won’t be able to back away from the heating element when it’s ready. That can make it overload, damaging the lighter and the heating element.

Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the top and bottom visors. You can also swing the bottom visor from side to side. Your visors may have an extension that can be pulled out for additional glare protection and a strap for holding small items, such as maps. Visor Vanity Mirror Pull the sun visor down and lift the cover to expose the vanity mirror.

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Illuminated Visor Vanity Mirror (Option)

Pull the sun visor down and lift the mirror cover to turn on the lamps.

Accessory Power Outlets (Option) If you have accessory power outlets, you can plug in auxiliary electrical equipment. The accessory power outlets are located below the cigarette lighter. Just pull down from the top of the door and follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical equipment you install. These circuits are protected by a fuse and have maximum current levels.

NOTICE:

When using the accessory power outlets, maximum electrical load must not exceed 25 amps. Always turn off any electrical equipment when not in use. Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods will drain your battery.

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Instrument Panel

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1. Air Vents 2. Instrument Cluster 3. Electronic Transfer Case (Option) 4. Comfort Controls 5. Glove Box 6. Ashtray

7. Cigarette LightedPower Auxiliary Outlets (Option) 8. Storage Compartment 9. Audio System 10. Lamp Controls 11. Brake Release 12. Fog Lamps (Option)

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Instrument Panel Cluster Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You'll know how fast you're going, about how much fuel you've used, and many other things you'll need to know to drive safely and economically.

SERVlCE ENGINE SOON

SHIFT

UNLEADED FUEL ONLY

Standard Cluster 2-50

ANTl- LOCK

ENGINE SOON

CHECK GAGES

SHIFT

'/ UNLEADED FUEL ONLY

Optional Cluster

RPM

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Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Your odometer is tamper resistant. It will show silver lines between the numbers if someone tries to turn it back. ‘You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. If the new one can be set to the mileage total of the old odometer, then it must be. But if it can’t, then it’s set at zero, and a label must be put on the driver’s door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed. Trip Odometer The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero. To set the trip odometer to zero, press the button near the readout. Tachometer (Option) The tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). 2-52

Each tachometer has a dlrrerent limit depending on the powertrain in your vehicle. The tachometer has three areas: normal operating range, red warning range and red danger range. Normal operating range shows your engine speed during normal driving conditions. For example, when the needle points to 2, it means the engine is running at 2,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The tachometer needle will vary all the time that the engine is running. The red warning range tells you that your engine speed is reaching its upper limits. Don’t drive very long with the tachometer in the red warning range. If you have a manual transmission, shift to a higher gear as soon as possible. If. you have an automatic transmission, lift your foot off of the accelerator pedal. The red danger range tells you that your engine speed is at its upper limits. You should immediately shift to a higher gear, or lift your foot off of the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:

Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the red range, or engine damage will occur.

1

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

’

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

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

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

You will see this light flash for a few seconds when you turn your ignition to RUN or START. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready.

AIR BAG

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

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Charging System Indicator Light

The charging system light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you it is working.

It should go out once the engine is running. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the charging system. It could indicate that you have problems with a generator drive belt, or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery. If you must drive a short distance with the light on, be certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.

Voltmeter

‘When your engine is not ninning, but the ignition is on (in the RUN position), this gage shows your battery’s state of charge in DC volts.

When the engine is running, the gage shows the condition of the charging system. Readings between the low and high warning zones indicate the normal operating range. Readings in the low warning zone may occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operating in the vehicle and the engine is left at an idle for an extended period. This condition is normal since the charging system is not able to provide full power at engine idle. As engine speeds are increased, this condition should correct itself as higher engine speeds allow the charging system to create maximum power.

You can only drive for a short time with the reading in either warning zone. If you must drive, turn off all unnecessary accessories. Readings in either warning zone indicate a possible problem in the electrical system. Have the vehicle serviced as soon as possible. Brake System Warning Light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.

BRAKE

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

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

A CAUTION:

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

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

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

ANTI - LOCK

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

If the light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a problem with your regular brakes. See “Brake System Warning Light” earlier in this part. The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

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Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is

260 too hot!

TEMP

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light)

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

SERVICE ENGINE SOON

It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible. In “Problems on the Road,” this manual shows you what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

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

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If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle:

Reduce vehicle speed.

0 Avoid hard accelerations. Avoid steep uphill grades.

0 If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being

hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Put your vehicle in PARK (P). Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service.

NOTICE:

~~

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

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

Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service is required. Light On Steady -- An emission control system malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required.

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If the Light Is On Steady You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you just put fuel into your vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips should turn the light off. Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water? If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off. Are you low on fuel? As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine may not run as efficiently as designed since small amounts of air are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire. The system can detect this. Adding fuel should correct this condition. Make sure to install the fuel cap properly. It will take a few driving trips to turn the light off.

Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see “Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on. If you experience this condition, change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. If none of the above steps have made the light turn off, have your dealer or qualified service center check the vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed.

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A CA"T1ON:

Don't keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced.

1 NOTICE:

Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty.

Engine Oil Pressure Gage

The oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) when the engine is running.

Canadian vehicles indicate oil pressure in kPa (kilopascals). Oil pressure may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the low pressure zone indicate the normal operating range. A reading in the low pressure zone may be caused by a dangerously low oil level or other problems causing low oil pressure.

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Shift Light

SHIFT

SHIFT light manual This light

You have the if you have a transmission. comes on very briefly as a bulb check when you start the engine. Shifting when the indicator light is on will help you get the best fuel economy. See “Shift Light” in the Index.

:::O

Daytime Running Lamps Indicator Light You have this light on the instrument panel. It goes on whenever the DRL are on, the ignition is on, the headlamp switch is off and the parking brake is released.

0 . 0

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Check Gages Light

Fuel Gage

The CHECK GAGES light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine.

When the ignition is on, the fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have remaining.

CHECK GAGES

If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your coolant temperature and engine oil pressure gages to see if they are in the warning zones.

Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem with your fuel gage:

At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the gage reads FULL (F). It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank. The gage moves a little when you turn a corner or speed up. The gage doesn’t go back to EMPTY (E) when you turn off the ignition.

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Section 3 Comfort, Controls and Audio Systems

In this section you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Comfort Controls With these systems- you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle. Standard Climate Control System

Fan Control The switch with the fan symbol changes the fan speed. To increase the fan speed, move the switch upward toward HI. To decrease the fan speed, move the switch downward toward LO.

Temperature Knob The upper knob regulates the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn the knob clockwise for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise for cooler air.

3-1

Optional Climate Control System

HI

OF

Fan Control The switch with the fan symbol changes the fan speed. To increase the fan speed, move the switch upward toward HI. To decrease the fan speed, move the switch downward toward LO.

Mode Knob The lower knob allows you to choose the direction of air delivery. OFF: This setting turns off all heating functions. Some outside air will still come out of the heater outlet whenever the vehicle is moving forward. =be +. /J VENT: This setting directs airflow through the instrument panel outlets. +/J BI-LEVEL: This setting directs air through the heater floor outlets and the instrument panel outlets. +’ HEATER: This setting directs warmed air through w. the heater floor outlets and windshield defroster outlets. +# BLEND: Airflow is divided equally between the heater floor outlet and the windshield defroster outlets. WDEFROST This setting directs most air through the windshield defroster outlets and some through the heater outlets.

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Temperature Knob The upper knob regulates the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn the knob clockwise for warmer air. Turn the knob counterclockwise for cooler air. Mode Knob The lower knob allows you to choose the direction of air delivery. OFF: This setting turns the system off. Some outside air will still enter the vehicle whenever the vehicle is moving forward. MAX N C : This setting provides maximum cooling with the least amount of work. MAX A/C recirculates much of the air inside your vehicle so it cools quickly. A/C: This setting cools the air entering your vehicle and directs it through the instrument panel outlets. +# BI-LEVEL A/C: Air is delivered through the heater +e floor outlets as well as the instrument panel outlets. +e /J VENT: This setting directs airflow through the instrument panel outlets. The air conditioning compressor is not working when VENT is selected. +’ HEATER: This setting directs warmed air through

the heater floor outlets and windshield defroster outlets.

w. +’ BLEND: Airflow is divided equally between the

heater floor outlet and the windshield defroster outlets. DEFROST: This setting directs most air through the windshield defroster outlets and some through the heater outlets. Air Conditioning (Option) On hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down. Then keep your windows closed for the air conditioner to work its best. For quick cool-down on very hot days, use MAX A/C with the temperature knob turned counterclockwise. This setting should be used to keep odors and/or dust from entering the vehicle. For normal cooling on hot days, use A/C with the temperature knob turned counterclockwise. On cool but sunny days, use BI-LEVEL A/C to deliver warm air to the floor and cooler air to the instrument panel outlets. If you have the “VORTEC” 4300 engine, when the air conditioner is on, you may sometimes notice slight changes in your vehicle’s engine speed and power. This is normal because the system is designed to cycle the compressor on and off to keep the desired temperature.

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Heating The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. On cold days, use HEATER with the temperature knob turned clockwise. BLEND is useful in cool weather when you have fog or ice on the windshield or side windows. If you use the optional engine coolant heater before starting your engine, your heating system will produce warmer air faster to heat the passenger compartment in cold weather. See “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. Ventilation System For mild outside temperatures when little heating or cooling is needed, use VENT to direct outside air through your vehicle. Airflow is through the instrument panel outlets. Your vehicle’s ventilation system supplies outside air to the inside of your vehicle when it is moving. When the vehicle is not moving, you can get outside air to flow through by selecting any mode. and any fan speed.

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You will find air outlets in the center and on the sides of your instrument panel. You can move the outlets to direct the flow of air, or close the outlets altogether. When you close an outlet, it will increase the flow of air coming out of any outlets that are open.

Ventilation Tips

Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the blower fan to HI for a few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. Keep the air path under the front seats clear of objects. This helps air to circulate throughout your vehicle.

Defogging and Defrosting On cool, humid days, use BLEND to keep the windshield and side windows clear. Use DEFROST to remove fog or ice from the windshield quickly in extremely humid or cold conditions. Turn the temperature knob clockwise and move the fan control toward HI.

Audio Systems Your Delco' audio system has been designea to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sure you're getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. Setting the Clock for All Systems Except AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player Press SET. Within five seconds, press and hold SEEK until the correct minute appears on the display. Press and hold SCAN until the correct hour appears on the display. Setting the Clock for AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player Press SET. (The radio may be on or off.) Within five seconds, press the SEEK right or left arrow until the correct minute appears on the display. Press and hold SCAN until the correct hour appears on the display.

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AM-FM Stereo

Playing the Radio PWR-VOL-RECALL: This knob turns the system on and off and controls the volume. Press the knob to display the time with the ignition off and to switch between the clock and radio when the radio is on.

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Finding a Station TUNE-AM-FM: Turn this knob to tune in radio stations. Press it to switch between AM and FM. SEEK: Press this button to go to the next higher station and stop. SCAN: Press this button to listen to each station for a few seconds. The radio will go to the next station, stop for a few seconds, then go to the next station. SCAN will appear on the display. Press SCAN again to stop scanning. PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 14 stations (seven AM and seven FM). 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 3. Press one of the four pushbuttons, within five

seconds, to store the station. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

In addition to the four stations set as above, up to three additional stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just: 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 3. Press two adjoining pushbuttons at the same time, within five seconds. Whenever you press the same two buttons, the station you set will return. 4. Repeat these steps for each pair of buttons.

Setting the Tone BASS: Slide this lever up to increase the bass. Adjust the lever until the sound is pleasing to your ear. TREBLE: Slide this lever up to increase the treble. You can reduce noise for weak or noisy stations by sliding this lever down. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: This control ring behind the PWR-VOL-RECALL left and right speakers. knob adjusts the balance between the FADE: This control ring behind the TUNE-AM-FM knob adjusts the balance between the front and rear speakers.

Playing the Radio PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL: This knob turns the system on and off and controls the volume. Press the knob to display the time with the ignition off, to switch between the clock and radio when the radio is on, and to go from one side of the tape to the other when a tape is playing.

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Finding a Station TUNE-AM-FM: Turn this knob to tune in radio stations. Press it to switch between AM and FM. SEEK: Press this button to go to the next higher station and stop. SCAN: Press this button to listen to each station for a few seconds. The radio will go to the next station, stop for a few seconds, then go to the next station. SCAN will appear on the display. Press SCAN again to stop scanning. PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 14 stations (seven AM and seven FM). 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 3. Press one of the four pushbuttons, within five seconds, to store the station. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

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In addition to the four stations set as above, up to three additional stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just: 1. 2. 3.

Tune in the desired station. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) Press two adjoining pushbuttons at the same time, within five seconds. Whenever you press the same two buttons, the station you set will return. Repeat these steps for each pair of buttons.

4.

Setting the Tone BASS: Slide this lever up to increase the bass. Adjust the lever until the sound is pleasing to your ear. TREBLE: Slide this lever up to increase the treble. You can reduce noise for weak or noisy stations by sliding this lever down.

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: This control ring behind the PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL knob adjusts the balance between the left and right speakers. FADE: This control ring behind the "E-AM-EM knob adjusts the balance between the front and rear speakers.

Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. Once the tape is playing, use the PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL knob, just as you do for radio. A lighted arrow will be displayed to show tape play direction. FORWARD: Press the arrow button in the direction that the lighted arrow points to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press STOP-EJECT lightly to stop forwarding and play the tape. REVERSE: Press the arrow button in the opposite direction that the lighted arrow points to reverse quickly to another part of the tape. Press STOP-EJECT lightly to stop reversing and play the tape. PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL: Press this knob to go from one side of the tape to the other. STOP-EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape or stop playing the tape to play the radio.

AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player with Equalizer (Option)

Playing the Radio PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL: This knob turns the system on and off and controls the volume. Press the knob to display the time with the ignition off, to switch between the clock and radio when the radio is on, and to go from one side of the tape to the other when a tape is playing. Finding a Station TUNE-AM-FM: Turn this knob to tune in radio stations. Press it to switch between AM and FM. SEEK: Press this button to go to the next higher station and stop.

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a SCAN: Press this button to listen to each station for few seconds. The radio will go to the next station, stop for a few seconds, then go to the next station. SCAN will appear on the display. Press SCAN again to stop scanning. PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 14 stations (seven AM and seven FM). 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. 3. Press one of the four pushbuttons, within five seconds,

to store the station. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return. 4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton. In addition to the four stations set as above, up to three additional stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just: 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 3. Press two adjoining pushbuttons at the same time, within five seconds. Whenever you press the same two buttons, the station you set will return. 4. Repeat these steps for each pair of buttons.

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AM-ST Press this button to tune an AM station that broadcasts in stereo. Your STEREO light will come on when you’re receiving AM stereo. If you press AM-ST and there is no more noise, it means the station is weak. You’ll hear the station better if you do not use AM-ST. Press the button again to delete stereo.

Setting the Tone TONE ADJUSTMENT Set the bass, midrange and treble by using the levers in the upper middle left corner to get the sound you want. The 60 and 250 levers adjust the bass, 1K is midrange, and 3.5K and 10K control the treble. We suggest you start with 1K in the midpoint position. Then move the other levers up until you get the amount of bass and treble you like.

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: This control ring behind the PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL knob adjusts the balance between the left and right speakers. FADE: This control ring behind the TUNE-AM-FM knob adjusts the balance between the front and rear speakers.

Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. Once the tape is playing, use the PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL knob, just as you do for radio. A lighted arrow will be displayed to show tape play direction. Cr02: This button lets you set the system for the type of cassette being used. If you are using chrome or metal tapes, press the button in. FORWARD: Press the arrow button in the direction that the lighted arrow points to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press STOP-EJECT lightly to stop forwarding and play the tape. REVERSE: Press the arrow button in the opposite direction that the lighted arrow points to reverse quickly to another part of the tape. Press STOP-EJECT lightly to stop reversing and play the tape.

SEARCH: Press this button to the recessed position. Press the lighted arrow to skip to the next selection. Press the opposite direction arrow that is not lighted to replay the current selection or skip to the previous selection. PWR-VOL-PROG-RCL: Press this knob to go from one side of the tape to the other. STOP-EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape or stop playing the tape to play the radio. Your Delco system may be able to receive C-QUAM@ stereo broadcasts. Many AM stations around the country use C-QUAM to produce stereo, though some do not. C-QUAM is a registered trademark of Motorola, Inc. If your Delco system can get C-QUAM signals, your STEREO light will come on when you are receiving stereo.

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AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player (Option)

Playing the Radio POWER-VOL: This knob turns the system on and off and controls the volume when the ignition is on. Volume is displayed unless BAL, FADE, BASS or TREB are adjusted. MUTE: Press this button to stop all sound from the radio or compact disc player. Press MUTE again to resume sound. RCL: Press this button to display the time with the ignition off and to switch between the clock and radio when the radio is on. 3-12

Finding a Station TUNE-BAND: Turn this knob to tune in radio stations. Press it to switch between AM and FM. AM or FM will show briefly on the display. SEEK: Press the right arrow to go to the next higher station and the left arrow to go to the next lower station. SCAN: Press this button to listen to each station for a few seconds. SC will appear on the display. The radio will go to the next station, stop for a few seconds, then go to the next station. Press SCAN again to stop scanning and stay at a station. PUSHBUTTONS: The five numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. They are also used when you play a compact disc. You can set up to 10 stations (five AM and five FM). 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. (SET appears on the display.) 3. Press one of the five pushbuttons, within five seconds,

to store the station. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return. 4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

Setting the Tone BASS: Press the BASS up arrow to increase bass and the BASS down arrow to decrease bass. Press the center of the button for the factory-preset bass position. The bass level will be displayed for about 10 seconds whenever this button is pressed. TREB: Press the TREB up arrow to increase treble and the TREB down arrow to decrease treble. Press the center of the button for the factory-preset treble position. The treble level will be displayed for about 10 seconds whenever this button is pressed. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: This control ring behind the POWER-VOL knob adjusts the balance between the left and right speakers. Balance will be displayed briefly when using this control. FADE: This control ring behind the TUNE knob adjusts the balance between the front and rear speakers. Fade levels will be briefly displayed.

Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The radio will pull the disc the rest of the way in. Wait a few seconds and the disc should play. If the disc comes back out and/or ERR appears on the display: 0 You are driving on a very rough road. (The disc

should play when the road gets smoother.)

0 The disc is upside down. 0 It is dirty, scratched or wet. 0 It is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and

try again.)

0 The disc player is too hot to play the disc. (As soon as things get back to normal, the disc should play.) Turn the POWER-VOL knob to turn the system on.

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RCL: Press this button to see what track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long it has been playing. The track number also appears when you change the volume or when a new track starts to play. COMP (2): Press this button to make loud and soft passages more nearly equal in volume. COMP will appear on the display while using this control. RDM (3): Press this button to play tracks in a random, rather than sequential, order. RDM will appear on the display while using this control. Press the button again to return to normal sequence. REV (4): Press and hold this button to return to a passage quickly. Release it to play the passage. The counter reading will appear on the display while using this control. FWD (5): Press and hold this button to advance to a passage quickly. Release it to resume playing. Watch the display to stop at a specific passage. SCAN: Press this button to listen to each selection for about six seconds. The disc will go to the next selection, stop for a few seconds, then go to the next selection. Press RDM, SCAN or any other motion button again to stop scanning. PREV: Hold the backward arrow or press it more than once to return the disc to previous tracks. 3-14

NEXT Press the forward arrow to hear the next track now instead of waiting until the current track is finished. If you hold this button or press it more than once, the disc will advance further. ST-PL: Press this button to stop the disc and play the radio. Press it again to restart the disc at the point where it stopped. Press the POWER-VOL knob or turn the ignition key off to stop the disc player. The disc stays in the player and will resume playing at the point where it stopped. E JCT Press this button to eject the disc and play the radio. The disc will start at track one when you reinsert it. Theft-Deterrent Feature Delco LOC II@ is a theft-deterrent feature for the compact disc player. It can be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally. If used, your player won’t be usable if it is ever stolen, because it won’t turn on. The instructions below tell you how to enter a secret code into the system. It is recommended that you read through all 11 steps before starting the procedure. If your vehicle loses battery power for any reason, you must unlock the turn on. system with your secret code before the radio will NOTE: If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically .reverts to time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4.

Locking the Theft System

1.

2.

3. 4.

5. 6. 7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

Write down any six-digit number and keep it in a safe place separate from the vehicle. Turn the ignition to the ACCESSORY or RUN position. Press POWER to turn the radio off. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the secret code number which you have written down. Press SET and 000 will appear on the display. Press SCAN to make the first digit appear. Press SEEK right arrow or SEEK left arrow to make the next two digits agree with your code. Press BAND and 000 will appear on the display again. Now you are ready to enter the last three digits of your code. Repeat Steps 6 and 7 for the last three digits of your code. Press BAND and the display will show REP for about five seconds and then 000 will appear on the display. Repeat Steps 6 through 10. This time the display will show SEC to let you know that your radio is secure.

Unlocking the Theft System After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on with the radio off. 2. Press SET and 000 will appear on the display. 3. Press SCAN to make the first digit appear. 4. Press SEEK right arrow or SEEK left arrow to make

the next two digits agree with your code.

5. Press BAND and 000 will appear on the display again. Now you are ready to enter the last three digits of your code.

6. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 for the last three digits of

your code.

7. Press BAND after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The time will be displayed indicating that the system is disabled. If the display shows SEC, the numbers entered did not match your secret code and the unit is still secured.

When battery power is given to a secured radio, the radio won’t turn on and LOC will appear on the display.

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Disabling the Theft System 1.

Press the 1 and 4 buttons together for five seconds with the ignition on but the radio off. SEC will appear on the display to show that the unit is in the secure mode. Press SET and 000 will appear on the display. Press SCAN to make the first digit appear. Press SEEK right arrow or SEEK left arrow to make the next two digits agree with your code. The display will show the numbers you entered. Press BAND and 000 will appear on the display. Enter the second three digits of the code. The display will show the numbers you entered. Press BAND. The disabling sequence was correct if --- shows on the display. The disabling sequence was incorrect if SEC shows on the display.

2. 3. 4.

5. 6.

7.

Understanding Radio Reception FM Stereo FM stereo will give you the best sound. But FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles ( 16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go.

AM The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.

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Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts to it. To help avoid hearing loss or damage: 0 Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. 0 Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably

and clearly.

NOTICE: vehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you can add

Before you add any sound equipment to your

what you want. If you can, it’s very important to do it properly. Added sound equipment may interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s engine, Delco radio or other systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation of sound equipment that has been added improperly. So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to covering mobile radio and telephone units.

check Federal rules

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Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player. Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a known good cassette to see if the tape or the tape player is at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player. Cleaning may be done with a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. It is normal for the cassette to eject while cleaning. Insert the cassette at least three times to ensure thorough cleaning. A scrubbing action cleaning cassette is available through your GM dealer. You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject. It may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner.

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Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure that the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. Be sure never to touch the signal surface when handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge. Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should replace it. Check every once in a while to be sure the mast is still tightened to the fender.

Section 4 Your Driving and the Road

?,

Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.

Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.) Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes. Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following distance. It’s the best defensive driving maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn suddenly.

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Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle:

Judgment

0 Muscular Coordination

Vision Attentiveness.

Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. In recent years, some 18,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured. Many adults -- by some estimates, nearly half the adult population -- choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 2 1, it’s against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws.

The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things:

The amount of alcohol consumed

0 The drinker’s body weight

The amount of food that is consumed before and during drinking The length of time it has taken the drinker to consume the alcohol.

According to the American Medical Association, a 180-lb. (82 kg) person who drinks three 12-ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of a liquor like whiskey, gin or vodka.

Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent. The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we’ve seen, it depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks, and how quickly the person drinks them. But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!

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It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level. There is a gender difference, too. Women generally have a lower relative percentage of body water than men.

Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol.

You can have a serious -- or even fatal -- collision

if you drive after drinking. Please don’t drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if you’re with a group, designate a driver who will not drink.

The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “1’11 be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision. There’s something else about drinking and driving that many people don’t know. Medical research shows that alcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord or heart. This means that when anyone who has been drinking -- driver or passenger -- is in a crash, that person’s chance of being killed or permanently disabled is higher than if the person had not been drinking.

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Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road.

Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle.

Braking Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But that’s only an average. It might be less with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and frustration. But even in 314 of a second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between your vehicle and others is important. And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; and the condition of your brakes.

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Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life. If your engine ever stops while you’re driving, brake normally but don’t pump your brakes. If you do, the pedal may get harder to push down. If your engine stops, you will still have some power brake assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push.

Anti-Lock Brakes Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent a braking skid. When you start your engine and begin to drive away, your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test is going on. This is normal.

If there’s a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

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The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions.

Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at the rear wheels.

You can steer around the obstacle while braking hard.

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As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly. Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes.

Using Anti-Lock Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel the brakes vibrate, or you may notice some noise, but this is normal. On vehicles with four-wheel drive, your anti-lock brakes work at all times -- whether you are in two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Braking in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking.

Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here’s why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this. The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.

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Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower. If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive’’ through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.

Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem. Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. (See “Braking in Emergencies” earlier in this section.) It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available.

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Off-Road Recovery You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving.

An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object. The fact that such emergency situations are always possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety belts properly.

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If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to one-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn your steering wheel to go straight down the roadway.

The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision. So here are some tips for passing: 0 “Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time. Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it’s all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.

Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a “running start” that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for another opportunity. If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot.

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0 Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front. in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. (Remember that your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.)

0 Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time

on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the next vehicle.

0 Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may be slowing down or starting to turn.

0 If you’re being passed, make it easy for the

following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease a little to the right.

Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not “overdriving” those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your vehicle’s three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin. A cornering skid and an acceleration skid are best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs. Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid.

Driving Guidelines Off-Road Driving with Your Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle This off-road guide is for vehicles that have four-wheel drive. Also, see “Anti-Lock Brakes” in the Index. If your vehicle doesn’t have four-wheel drive, you shouldn’t drive off-road unless you’re on a level, solid surface. Off-road driving can be great fun. But it does have some definite hazards. The greatest of these is the terrain itself. “Off-roading” means you’ve left the great North American road system behind. Traffic lanes aren’t marked. Curves aren’t banked. There are no road signs. Surfaces can be slippery, rough, uphill or downhill. In short, you’ve gone right back to nature. Off-road driving involves some new skills. And that’s why it’s very important that you read this guide. You’ll find many driving tips and suggestions. These will help make your off-road driving safer and more enjoyable.

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Before You GO Off-Roading There are some things to do before you go out. For

. example, be sure to have all necessary maintenance and service work done. Check to make sure all underbody shields (if so equipped) are properly attached. Be sure you read all the information about your four-wheel-drive

, ‘ vehicle in this manual. Is there enough fuel? Is the spare tire fully inflated? Are the fluid levels up where they should be? What are the local laws that apply to off-roading where you’ll be driving? If you don’t know,

- you should check with law enforcement people in the area. Will you be on someone’s private land? If so, be sure to get the necessary permission. Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving There are some important things to remember about how to load your vehicle.

The heaviest things should be on the load floor and , forward of your rear axle. Put heavier items as far forward as you can.’ Be’ sure the load is secured properly, so driving on ’ the off-road ten@ doesn’t toss things around.

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Cargo on the load floor piled higher than the seatbacks can be thrown forward during a sudden stop. You or your passengers could be injured. Keep cargo below the top of the seatbacks. Unsecured cargo on the load floor can be tossed about when driving over rough terrain. You or your passengers can be struck by flying objects. Secure the cargo properly. Heavy loads on the roof raise the vehicle’s center of gravity, making it more likely to roll over. You can be seriously or fatally injured if the vehicle rolls over. Put heavy loads inside the cargo area, not on the roof. Keep cargo in the cargo area as far forward and low as possible.

You’ll find other important information in this manual. See “Vehicle Loading,” “Luggage Carrier” and “Tires” in the Index.

Environmental Concerns Off-road driving can provide wholesome and satisfying recreation. However, it also raises environmental concerns. GM recognizes these concerns and urges every off-roader to follow these basic rules for protecting the environment:

Always use established trails, roads and areas that have been specially set asjde for public off-road recreational driving; obey all posted regulations. Avoid any driving practice that could damage the environment -- shrubs, flowers, trees, grasses -- or disturb wildlife (this includes wheel-spinning, breaking down trees or unnecessary driving through streams or over soft ground). Always carry a litter bag . . . make sure all refuse is removed from any campsite before leaving. Take extreme care with open fires (where permitted), camp stoves and lanterns. Never park your vehicle over dry grass or other combustible materials that could catch fire from the heat of the vehicle’s exhaust system.

Traveling to Remote Areas It makes sense to plan your trip, especially when going to a remote area. Know the terrain and plan your route. You are much less likely to get bad surprises. Get accurate maps of trails and terrain. Try to learn of any blocked or closed roads. It’s also a good idea to travel with at least one other vehicle. If something happens to one of them, the other can help quickly. Does your vehicle have a winch? If so, be sure to read the winch instructions. In a remote area, a winch can be handy if you get stuck. But you’ll want to know how to use it properly. Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving It’s a good idea to practice in an area that’s safe and close to home before you go into the wilderness. Off-road driving does require some new and different driving skills. Here’s what we mean. Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms, hands, feet and body, you’ll need to respond to vibrations and vehicle bounce.

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Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful off-road driving. One of the best ways to control your