Repair Facility GM also recommends that you choose a collision repair facility that meets your needs before you ever need collision repairs. Your dealer may have a collision repair center with GM-trained technicians and state‐of‐the‐art equipment, or be able to recommend a collision repair center that has GM-trained technicians and comparable equipment.
Insuring the Vehicle Protect your investment in the GM vehicle with comprehensive and collision insurance coverage. There are significant differences in the quality of coverage afforded by various insurance policy terms. Many insurance policies provide reduced protection to the GM vehicle by limiting compensation for damage repairs by using aftermarket collision parts. Some insurance companies will not specify aftermarket collision parts. When purchasing insurance, we recommend that you ensure that the vehicle will be repaired with GM original equipment collision parts. If such insurance coverage is not available from your current insurance carrier, consider switching to another insurance carrier.
If the vehicle is leased, the leasing company may require you to have insurance that ensures repairs with Genuine GM Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts or Genuine Manufacturer replacement parts. Read the lease carefully, as you may be charged at the end of the lease for poor quality repairs. If a Crash Occurs If there has been an injury, call emergency services for help. Do not leave the scene of a crash until all matters have been taken care of. Move the vehicle only if its position puts you in danger, or you are instructed to move it by a police officer. Give only the necessary information to police and other parties involved in the crash. For emergency towing see Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5.
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Customer Information
13-11
Gather the following information: . Driver name, address, and
telephone number.
. Driver license number. . Owner name, address, and
telephone number.
. Vehicle license plate number. . Vehicle make, model, and
model year.
. Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN). Insurance company and policy number.
. General description of the
damage to the other vehicle. Choose a reputable repair facility that uses quality replacement parts. See “Collision Parts” earlier in this section.
If the airbag has inflated, see What Will You See after an Airbag Inflates? on page 3‑24. Managing the Vehicle Damage Repair Process In the event that the vehicle requires damage repairs, GM recommends that you take an active role in its repair. If you have a pre-determined repair facility of choice, take the vehicle there, or have it towed there. Specify to the facility that any required replacement collision parts be original equipment parts, either new Genuine GM parts or recycled original GM parts. Remember, recycled parts will not be covered by the GM vehicle warranty.
Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you must live with the repair. Depending on your policy limits, your insurance company may initially value the repair using aftermarket parts. Discuss this with the repair professional, and insist on Genuine GM parts. Remember, if the vehicle is leased, you may be obligated to have the vehicle repaired with Genuine GM parts, even if your insurance coverage does not pay the full cost. If another party's insurance company is paying for the repairs, you are not obligated to accept a repair valuation based on that insurance company's collision policy repair limits, as you have no contractual limits with that company. In such cases, you can have control of the repair and parts choices as long as the cost stays within reasonable limits.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
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13-12
Customer Information
Service Publications Ordering Information
Service Manuals Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on the engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc. Service Bulletins Service Bulletins give additional technical service information needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in the diagnosis and service of the vehicle.
Owner Information Owner publications are written specifically for owners and intended to provide basic operational information about the vehicle. The Owner Manual includes the Maintenance Schedule for all models. In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner Manual, and Warranty Booklet. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00 (U.S.) plus handling and shipping fees. Without Portfolio: Owner Manual only. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25.00 (U.S.) plus handling and shipping fees.
Current and Past Models Technical Service Bulletins and Manuals are available for current and past model GM vehicles.
ORDER TOLL FREE:
1-800-551-4123 Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Eastern Time
For Credit Card Orders Only
(VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit
Helm, Inc. at: www.helminc.com.
Or write to:
Helm, Incorporated
Attention: Customer Service
47911 Halyard Drive
Plymouth, MI 48170
Prices are subject to change
without notice and without incurring
obligation. Allow ample time for
delivery.
All listed prices are quoted in U.S.
funds. Make checks payable in U.S.
funds.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
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Customer Information
13-13
Reporting Safety Defects
to the Canadian
Government
If you live in Canada, and you
believe that the vehicle has a safety
defect, notify Transport Canada
immediately, and notify General
Motors of Canada Limited.
Call Transport Canada at
1-800-333-0510 or write to:
Transport Canada
Road Safety Branch
80 rue Noel
Gatineau, QC J8Z 0A1
However, NHTSA cannot
become involved in individual
problems between you, your
dealer, or General Motors.
To contact NHTSA, you may
call the Vehicle Safety Hotline
toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or
write to:
Administrator, NHTSA
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590
You can also obtain other
information about motor
vehicle safety from
http://www.safercar.gov.
Reporting Safety Defects
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States Government If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying General Motors. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and remedy campaign.
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13-14
Customer Information
Reporting Safety Defects
to General Motors
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or
Transport Canada) in a situation like
this, notify General Motors.
Call 1-800-222-1020, or write:
Chevrolet Motor Division
Chevrolet Customer
Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33170
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
In Canada, call 1-800-263-3777
(English) or 1-800-263-7854
(French), or write:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Care Centre,
Mail Code: CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy This GM vehicle has a number of sophisticated computers that record information about the vehicle’s performance and how it is driven. For example, the vehicle uses computer modules to monitor and control engine and transmission performance, to monitor the conditions for airbag deployment and deploy airbags in a crash, and, if so equipped, to provide antilock braking to help the driver control the vehicle. These modules may store data to help your dealer technician service the vehicle. Some modules may also store data about how you operate the vehicle, such as rate of fuel consumption or average speed. These modules may also retain the owner’s personal preferences, such as radio presets, seat positions, and temperature settings.
Event Data Recorders This vehicle has an Event Data Recorder (EDR). The main purpose of an EDR is to record, in certain crash or near crash-like situations, such as an airbag deployment or hitting a road obstacle, data that will assist in understanding how a vehicle's systems performed. The EDR is designed to record data related to vehicle dynamics and safety systems for a short period of time, typically 30 seconds or less. The EDR in this vehicle is designed to record such data as: . How various systems in the
vehicle were operating.
. Whether or not the driver and
passenger safety belts were buckled/fastened.
. How far, if at all, the driver was pressing the accelerator and/or brake pedal.
. How fast the vehicle was
traveling.
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Customer Information
13-15
This data can help provide a better understanding of the circumstances in which crashes and injuries occur. Important: EDR data is recorded by the vehicle only if a non-trivial crash situation occurs; no data is recorded by the EDR under normal driving conditions and no personal data (e.g., name, gender, age, and crash location) is recorded. However, other parties, such as law enforcement, could combine the EDR data with the type of personally identifying data routinely acquired during a crash investigation. To read data recorded by an EDR, special equipment is required, and access to the vehicle or the EDR is needed. In addition to the vehicle manufacturer, other parties, such as law enforcement, that have the special equipment, can read the information if they have access to the vehicle or the EDR.
GM will not access this data or share it with others except: with the consent of the vehicle owner or, if the vehicle is leased, with the consent of the lessee; in response to an official request by police or similar government office; as part of GM's defense of litigation through the discovery process; or, as required by law. Data that GM collects or receives may also be used for GM research needs or may be made available to others for research purposes, where a need is shown and the data is not tied to a specific vehicle or vehicle owner.
OnStar® If the vehicle is equipped with an active OnStar system, that system may also record data in crash or near crash-like situations. The OnStar Terms and Conditions provides information on data collection and use and is available
at www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada), or by pressing the Q button and speaking to an advisor. See OnStar Overview on page 14‑1.
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) RFID technology is used in some vehicles for functions such as tire pressure monitoring and ignition system security, as well as in connection with conveniences such as key fobs for remote door locking/unlocking and starting, and in-vehicle transmitters for garage door openers. RFID technology in GM vehicles does not use or record personal information or link with any other GM system containing personal information.
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13-16
Customer Information
Radio Frequency Statement This vehicle has systems that operate on a radio frequency that comply with Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and with Industry Canada Standards RSS‐GEN/210/220/310. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. The device may not cause
harmful interference.
2. The device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Changes or modifications to any of these systems by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
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OnStar
OnStar Overview
Push X to:
OnStar
14-1
OnStar Overview
OnStar Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
OnStar Services
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-4
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
OnStar Additional Information
OnStar Additional
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
. Make a call, end a call,
or answer an incoming call.
. Give OnStar Hands-Free Calling
voice commands.
. Give OnStar Turn-by-Turn
Navigation voice commands. Requires the available Directions and Connections service plan.
Push Q to connect to a live Advisor to: . Verify account information or
update contact information.
. Get driving directions. Requires
the available Directions and Connections service plan.
. Receive On-Demand
Diagnostics for a check on the vehicle’s key operating systems.
. Receive Roadside Assistance.
If equipped, this vehicle has a comprehensive, in-vehicle system that can connect to a live Advisor for Emergency, Security, Navigation, Connection, and Diagnostic Services. The OnStar system status light is next to the OnStar buttons. If the status light is: . Solid Green: System is ready.
Flashing Green: On a call. . Red: Indicates a problem. Push Q or call 1‐888‐4‐ONSTAR (1‐888‐466‐7827) to speak to an Advisor.
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14-2
OnStar
Push ] to get a priority connection to an Emergency Advisor available 24/7 to: . Get help for an emergency. . Be a Good Samaritan or
respond to an AMBER Alert.
. Get crisis assistance and
evacuation routes.
OnStar Services
Emergency With Automatic Crash Response, the built-in system can automatically connect to help in a crash even if you cannot ask for it. Push ] to connect to an Emergency Advisor. GPS technology is used to identify the vehicle location and can provide critical information to emergency personnel. The Advisor is also trained to offer critical assistance in emergency situations.
Security OnStar provides services like Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Remote Ignition Block, and Roadside Assistance, if the vehicle is equipped with these services. OnStar can unlock the vehicle doors remotely, if it is equipped with automatic door locks, and can help police locate the vehicle if it is stolen.
Navigation OnStar navigation requires the Directions and Connections service plan. Push Q to receive directions or have them sent to the vehicle navigation screen. Destinations can also be forwarded to the vehicle from Google Maps™ or MapQuest.com. The OnStar mapping database is continuously updated. Visit www.onstar.com for coverage maps. Turn-by-Turn Navigation 1. Push Q to connect to a live
Advisor.
2. Request directions. 3. Directions are downloaded to the
vehicle.
4. Follow the voice-guided
commands.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (3,1)
Using Voice Commands During a Planned Route
Cancel Route
1. Push X. System responds: “OnStar ready,” then a tone. Say “Cancel route.” System responds: “Would you like to cancel route directions to your destination?”
2. Say “Yes.” System responds:
“OK, route canceled.”
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Route Preview
1. Push X. System responds: “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Route Preview.” System responds with the next three maneuvers.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Repeat
1. Push X. System responds: “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Repeat.” System responds with the last direction given, then responds with “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Get My Destination
1. Push X. System responds: “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Get my destination.”
System responds with miles to the destination, then responds with “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
OnStar
14-3
Other Navigation Services Available from OnStar OnStar eNav: Allows subscribers to send destinations from Google Maps and MapQuest.com to their Turn-by-Turn Navigation or screen-based navigation system. When ready, the directions will be downloaded to the vehicle. Destination Download: Push Q, then request the Advisor to download directions to the navigation system in the vehicle. After the call ends, push the “Go” button on the navigation screen to begin driving directions. Destinations can also be downloaded on the go. For information about eNav, Destination Download, and coverage maps visit www.onstar.com.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (4,1)
14-4
OnStar
Connections OnStar Hands-Free Calling allows calls to be made and received from the vehicle. The vehicle can also be controlled from a cell phone through the OnStar RemoteLink mobile app. See www.onstar.com for coverage maps. Hands-Free Calling
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Dial.” System responds:
“Please say the name or number to call.”
3. Say the entire number without
pausing, including a “1” and the area code. System responds: “OK calling.”
Retrieve My Number
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “My Number.” System
responds: “Your OnStar Hands-Free Calling number is.”
End a Call
Push X. System responds: “Call ended.” Store a Name Tag for Speed Dialing
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Store.” System responds:
“Please say the number you would like to store.”
3. Say the entire number without
pausing. System responds: “Please say the name tag.” 4. Pick a name tag. “System
responds: ”About to store
5. Say “Yes” or “No” to try again.
System responds: “OK, storing
Place a Call Using a Stored Number
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Call
responds: “OK, calling
Verify Minutes and Expiration
Push X and say “minutes” then “verify” to check how many minutes remain and their expiration date. OnStar Mobile App With an iPhone® or Android™-based mobile device, an OnStar RemoteLink mobile app can be downloaded. The vehicle can be remote started, if equipped, or the doors can be unlocked from anywhere there is cell phone service. It can also check the fuel level, tire pressure, and oil life. It can connect to an OnStar Advisor anytime. For OnStar mobile app compatibility or further information, see www.onstar.com.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (5,1)
Diagnostics OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics will perform a vehicle check every month. It will check the engine, transmission, antilock brakes, and major vehicle systems. It also checks the tire pressures, if the vehicle is equipped with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System. If a diagnostics check is needed between e-mails, push Q, and an Advisor can run a check.
OnStar Additional Information
Transferring Service Push Q to request account transfer eligibility information. The Advisor can assist in canceling or removing account information. If OnStar receives information that vehicle ownership has changed, OnStar may send a voice message to the vehicle, requesting updated account information. Reactivation for Subsequent Owners Push Q and follow the prompts to speak to an Advisor as soon as possible after acquiring the vehicle. The Advisor will update vehicle records and will explain the OnStar service offers and options available.
OnStar
14-5
How OnStar Service Works Automatic Crash Response, Emergency Services, Crisis Assist, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock, Roadside Assistance, Turn-by-Turn Navigation, and Hands-Free Calling are available on most vehicles. Not all OnStar services are available everywhere or on all vehicles. For more information, a full description of OnStar services, system limitations, and OnStar terms and conditions, see www.onstar.com (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada); contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR (1‐888‐466‐7827) or TTY 1‐877‐248‐2080; or push Q to speak with an Advisor. OnStar services require a vehicle electrical system, wireless service, and GPS satellite technologies to be available and operating for features to function properly. These systems may not operate if the battery is discharged or disconnected.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (6,1)
14-6
OnStar
OnStar service cannot work unless your vehicle is in a place where OnStar has an agreement with a wireless service provider for service in that area, and the wireless service provider has coverage, network capacity, reception, and technology compatible with OnStar’s service. Service involving location information about the vehicle cannot work unless GPS signals are available, unobstructed, and compatible with the OnStar hardware. OnStar service may not work if the OnStar equipment is not properly installed or it has not been properly maintained. If equipment or software is added, connected, or modified, OnStar service may not work. Other problems beyond OnStar’s control may prevent service such as hills, tall buildings, tunnels, weather, electrical system design and architecture of the vehicle, damage to the vehicle in a crash, or wireless phone network congestion or jamming.
See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑16 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310. Services for People with Disabilities Advisors provide services to help subscribers with physical disabilities and medical conditions. Push Q for help with:
Locating a gas station with an attendant to pump gas. Finding a hotel, restaurant, etc., that meets accessibility needs.
. Providing directions to the
closest hospital or pharmacy in urgent situations.
TTY Users OnStar has the ability to communicate to the deaf, hard‐of‐hearing, or speech‐impaired customers while in the vehicle. The
available dealer‐installed TTY system can provide in-vehicle access to all of the OnStar services, except Virtual Advisor and OnStar Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation. Onstar.com The website provides access to account information, manages the OnStar subscription, and allows viewing of videos of each service. Get subscription plan pricing and sign up for OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics. Click on the “My Account” tab on the home page. OnStar Personal Identification Number (PIN) A PIN is needed to access some of the OnStar services, like Remote Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Assistance. You will be prompted to change the PIN the first time when speaking with an Advisor. To change the OnStar PIN, call OnStar and provide the Advisor with the current number.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (7,1)
Warranty OnStar equipment may be warranted as part of the new-vehicle limited warranty. The manufacturer of the vehicle furnishes detailed warranty information. Languages The vehicle can be programmed to respond in French or Spanish. Push Q and ask an Advisor. Advisors can speak French or Spanish. Potential Issues Some OnStar services are disabled after five days. OnStar cannot perform Remote Door Unlock or Stolen Vehicle Assistance after the vehicle has been off continuously for five days. After five days, OnStar can contact Roadside Assistance and a locksmith to help gain access to the vehicle.
Global Positioning System (GPS) . Obstruction of the GPS can occur in a large city with tall buildings; in parking garages; around airports; in tunnels, underpasses, or parking garages; or in an area with very dense trees. If GPS signals are not available, the OnStar system should still operate to call OnStar. However, OnStar could have difficulty identifying the exact location. In emergency situations, OnStar can use the last stored GPS location to send to emergency responders.
. A temporary loss of GPS can
cause loss of the ability to send a Turn-by-Turn Navigation route. The Advisor may give a verbal route or may ask for a call back after the vehicle is driven into an open area.
OnStar
14-7
Cellular and GPS Antennas Avoid placing items over or near the antenna to prevent blocking cellular and GPS signal reception. Cellular reception is required for OnStar to send remote signals to the vehicle. Unable to Connect to OnStar Message If there is limited cellular coverage or the cellular network has reached maximum capacity, this message may come on. Push Q to try the call again or try again after driving a few miles into another cellular area. Vehicle and Power Issues OnStar services require a vehicle electrical system, wireless service, and GPS satellite technologies to be available and operating for features to function properly. These systems may not operate if the battery is discharged or disconnected.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (8,1)
14-8
OnStar
Add-on Electrical Equipment The OnStar system is integrated into the electrical architecture of the vehicle. Do not add any electrical equipment. See Add-On Electrical Equipment on page 9‑40. Added electrical equipment may interfere with the operation of the OnStar system and cause it to not operate. Privacy The complete OnStar Privacy Statement may be found at www.onstar.com. Privacy-sensitive users of wireless communications are cautioned that the privacy of any information sent via wireless cellular communications cannot be assured. Third parties may unlawfully intercept or access transmissions and private communications without consent.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (1,1)
INDEX
i-1
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Add-On Electrical
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Additional Information,
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . 10-13
Air Filter, Passenger
Compartment
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Airbag System
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-31
How Does an Airbag
Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24
Passenger Sensing
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-26
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24
Airbag System (cont'd)
What Will You See after an
Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24
When Should an Airbag
Antilock Brake
System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Appearance Care
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-23
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . .3-21
Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-80
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Airbags
Adding Equipment to the
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-30
Passenger Status Indicator . . . 5-11
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Servicing Airbag-Equipped
Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-30
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-19
Alarm System
Anti-theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Antenna
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-13
Anti-theft
Alarm System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Armrest
Front Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Assistance Program,
Roadside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Audio
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-19
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-13
Audio System
Fixed Mast Antenna . . . . . . . . . .7-13
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-12
Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . . . 7-2
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Black plate (2,1)
i-2
INDEX
Automatic
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24
Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Automatic Transmission
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-25
Shift Lock Control
Function Check . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Auxiliary
Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-16
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-23
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74
Load Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Power Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Blade Replacement, Wiper . . . 10-26
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . 7-19, 7-21, 7-25
Bluetooth Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19
Brake
System Warning Light . . . . . . . .5-16
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Antilock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-28
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-29
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
License Plate Lamps . . . . . . . 10-31
Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and
Back-up Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
California
Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Perchlorate Materials
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Canadian Vehicle Owners . . . . . . . . iii
Capacities and
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Carbon Monoxide
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-22
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Cargo
Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Cautions, Danger, and
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
Central Locking System . . . . . . . . 2-7
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (3,1)
Chains, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Charging System Light
. . . . . . . . 5-12
Check
Engine Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Ignition
Transmission Lock . . . . . . . . 10-25
Child Restraints
Infants and Young
Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-34
Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . .3-39
Older Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-32
Securing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45, 3-48
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-36
Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Cleaning
Exterior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-80
Interior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . . 8-1
Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Cluster, Instrument
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Clutch, Hydraulic . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Code Set Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Collision Damage Repair . . . . . . 13-9
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Compressor Kit, Tire
Sealant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Connections, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . 14-4
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Coolant
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Engine Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Courtesy Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Courtesy Transportation
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8
Cover
Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
INDEX
i-3
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-3
Text Telephone (TTY)
Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-4
Customer Information Service Publications
Ordering Information . . . . . . 13-12
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1
Damage Repair, Collision . . . . . . 13-9
Danger, Warnings, and
Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
. . . . . . . 13-14
Data Recorders, Event Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Indicator Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Devices, Auxiliary . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (4,1)
i-4
INDEX
Diagnostics, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Door
Ajar Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Ajar Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Central Locking System . . . . . . . 2-7
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Drive Belt Routing, Engine . . . . . 12-3
Driver Information
Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-23
Driving
Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Drunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
For Better Fuel Economy . . . . .1-21
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . 9-7
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . . 9-9
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Electrical Equipment,
Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Electrical System
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Emergency, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Check and Service Engine
Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Compartment Overview . . . . . . .10-6
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Coolant Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3
Exhaust
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-22
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-18
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Engine (cont'd)
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Reduced Power Light . . . . . . . . .5-21
Running While Parked . . . . . . . .9-23
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3, 9-17
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . 13-14
Extender, Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Filter,
Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . 6-4
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-86
Fluid
Automatic Transmission . . . . 10-12
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Fog Lamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Front Fog Lamp
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (5,1)
Front Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Front Seats
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Economy Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-21
Economy, Driving for Better . . . . 9-2
Filling a Portable Fuel
Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-37
Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Gasoline Specifications . . . . . . .9-36
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . .5-20
Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-35
Requirements, California . . . . .9-36
Fuses
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Gasoline
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Gauges
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Warning Lights and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
General Information
Service and Maintenance . . . . . 11-1
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . 6-4
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
INDEX
i-5
Headlamps
Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Daytime Running Lamps
(DRL) Indicator Light . . . . . . . .5-22
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . .5-21
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2
Lamps On Reminder . . . . . . . . .5-22
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Heater
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-18
Heating and Air Conditioning . . . 8-1
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . 9-7
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Hydraulic Clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (6,1)
i-6
INDEX
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Ignition Transmission Lock
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-25
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Indicator
Code Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Owner Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Infants and Young Children,
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Instrument Panel
Storage Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74
Keyless Entry
Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . 2-3
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . 10-38
Lamps
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . . 6-2
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Malfunction Indicator . . . . . . . . .5-13
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
LATCH System
Replacing Parts after a
Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-45
LATCH, Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . 3-39
Liftgate
Carbon Monoxide . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Lighter, Cigarette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Lighting
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Lights
Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Brake System Warning . . . . . . .5-16
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning . . . . . . .5-19
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Front Fog Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Low Fuel Warning . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Reduced Engine Power . . . . . .5-21
Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . .5-10
Service Vehicle Soon . . . . . . . . .5-15
Speed Sensitive Power
Steering (SSPS) Warning . . .5-17
StabiliTrak® OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (7,1)
Lights (cont'd)
Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Traction Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Up-Shift
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-17
Load Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Locks
Automatic Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Central Locking System . . . . . . . 2-7
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . 5-20
Lower Anchors and Tethers
for Children (LATCH
System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39
Maintenance
Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15
Maintenance Schedule Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-12
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . 5-13
Manual Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
Manual Transmission . . . . . . . . . . 9-26
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Manual Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Messages
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Mirrors
Convex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12
Folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Manual Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Monitor System, Tire
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46
Navigation
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Off-Road
Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
INDEX
i-7
Oil
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-9
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-12
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Older Children, Restraints . . . . . 3-32
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
OnStar®
Additional Information . . . . . . . .14-5
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-4
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-5
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-1
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
System, In Brief
. . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-22
Operation, Infotainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Ordering
Service Publications . . . . . . . . 13-12
Outlets
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Overheating, Engine . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Overview, Infotainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2, 7-4
Overview, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Owner Manual Indicator . . . . . . . 5-15
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (8,1)
i-8
INDEX
Park
Shifting Into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20
Shifting Out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-21
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-29
Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . 10-25
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . .9-22
Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Passenger Compartment Air
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Passenger Sensing System . . . 3-26
Perchlorate Materials
Requirements, California . . . . . 10-3
Personalization
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Phone
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . 7-19, 7-21, 7-25
Power
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Protection, Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Power (cont'd)
Reduced Engine Light . . . . . . . .5-21
Retained Accessory (RAP) . . .9-19
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15
Pregnancy, Using Safety
Rear Window Washer/Wiper . . . . 5-4
Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Recommended
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-35
Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Recommended Fluids and
Privacy
Radio Frequency
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
Records
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . 13-15
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15
Program
Recreational Vehicle
Courtesy Transportation . . . . . .13-8
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Proposition 65 Warning,
Reduced Engine Power
California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . . 13-15
Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
Radios
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-12
Satellite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Reimbursement Program,
GM Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Replacement Parts
Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-31
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-14
Replacing Airbag System . . . . . . 3-31
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (9,1)
Replacing LATCH System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45
Replacing Safety Belt
System Parts after a Crash . . . 3-18
Reporting Safety Defects
Canadian Government . . . . . . 13-13
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Restraints
Where to Put . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-38
Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Roads
Driving, Wet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Roof
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17
Rotation, Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Routing, Engine Drive Belt . . . . . 12-3
Running the Vehicle While
Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18
Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-17
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12
Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10
Replacing after a Crash . . . . . .3-18
Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . .3-17
Safety Defects Reporting
Canadian Government . . . . . . 13-13
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Safety Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Safety System Check . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Scheduling Appointments . . . . . . 13-7
Sealant Kit, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Seats
Adjustment, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Heated Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
INDEX
i-9
Securing Child
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45, 3-48
Security
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Service
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Doing Your Own Work . . . . . . . .10-4
Engine Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Maintenance Records . . . . . . .11-15
Maintenance, General
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
. . . . .12-1
Parts Identification Label Publications Ordering
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-12
Scheduling Appointments . . . . .13-7
Vehicle Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Servicing the Airbag . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30
Shift Lock Control Function
Check, Automatic
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Shifting
Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20
Out of Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-21
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (10,1)
i-10
INDEX
Signals, Turn and
Storage Areas
Tires
Lane-Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Spare Tire
Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Specifications and
Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Speed Sensitive Power
Steering (SSPS) Warning
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
StabiliTrak
OFF Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-31
Start Vehicle, Remote . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . 1-3, 9-17
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Wheel Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Wheel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Storage
Load Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Cargo Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . 10-66
Stuck Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
System
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Taillamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Text Telephone (TTY) Users . . . 13-4
Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . . . 2-11
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52
Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67
Compact Spare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Inflation Monitor System . . . . 10-47
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Pressure Monitor System . . . 10-46
Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Sealant and
Compressor Kit
. . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Sealant and Compressor
Kit, Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-66
Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38
Terminology and
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (11,1)
INDEX
i-11
Tires (cont'd)
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . 10-56
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
Towing
General Information . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . 10-77
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Traction
Control System (TCS) . . . . . . . .9-29
Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak® Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Transmission
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24
Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Fluid, Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Transportation Program,
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Turn and Lane-Change
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Turn Signal
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Up-Shift Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Using This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Vehicle (cont'd)
Remote Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Service Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Vehicle Care
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . 10-66
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44
Ventilation, Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Vehicle
Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iii
Control
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Identification
Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Personalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Warning
Brake System Light . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Cautions and Danger . . . . . . . . . . . .iv
Hazard Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11
Black plate (12,1)
i-12
INDEX
Wheels
Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
. . . . 3-38
Where to Put the Restraint
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15
Windshield
Wiper/Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Winter
Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . 10-26
Wipers
Rear Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4