1997 Chevrolet Tahoe Owners Manual

near-frontal impacts. The air bag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage. Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off-Road Driving” in the Index for more tips on off-road driving. What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

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

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

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How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions. What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag -- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

I When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air.

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

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag.

Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

0

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your GM dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications’’ in the Index.

NOTICE:

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

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

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

e.’ If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the

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

A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is e.’ Is there anything I might add to the front of the

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

vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly?

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

What if I add a snow plow? Will it keep the air bags from working properly?

A: We’ve designed our air bag systems to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including snow plowing with vehicles equipped with the optional Snow Plow Prep Package (RPO VYU). But don’t change or defeat the snow plow’s “tripping mechanism.” If you do, it can damage your snow plow and your vehicle, and it may cause an air bag inflation.

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Center Passenger Position

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

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

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To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.

Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

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Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

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

2-Door Utility and Suburban

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4-DOOr Utility

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

Don’t let it get twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again.

2-Door Utility and Suburban

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4-DOOr Utility

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

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

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Four-door utility models and the second seat of Suburbans have shoulder belt height adjusters. Move the shoulder belt height adjuster to the height that is right for you.

up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without pushing in to make sure it has locked into position. Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.

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

To move the height adjuster down, push in at the word PRESS and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing

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2-Door Utility and Suburban

4-Door Utility

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

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

1. Remove the guide from its storage clip on the side of

the seatback.

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

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

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

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4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as

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

To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Slide the guide onto the storage clip. Make sure you remove the comfort guide from the belt before you fold a rear seat down or use an easy-entry seat, if your vehicle has one.

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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.

Smaller Children and Babies A CAUTION:

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

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1 CAUTION: (CO-~’----”)

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

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

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Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in a rear seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat. Here’s why:

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A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rearfacing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Before you secure 1 a forward-facing child restraint, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. Or, secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

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

Top Strap

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your GM dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it.

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

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

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

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p:

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

the retractor to set the lock.

6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back

into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Position

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

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1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

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

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

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

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

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

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

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats’’ in the Index.)

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

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

retractor to set the lock.

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

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Larger Children

7. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the

retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

8. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

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Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly.

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.

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

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

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but

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

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2-Door Utility and Suburban

&Door Utility

a CAUTION:

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

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

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.

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Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)

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

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b% NOTES

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b NOTES

Section 2 Features and Controls

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

2-2 2-3 2-6 2-8 2-11 2- 12 2- 12 2- 13 2- 15 2- 16 2-20 2-20 2-25 2-26 2-28

Keys Door Locks Keyless Entry System Your Doors and How They Work Theft New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Positions Starting Your Gasoline Engine Engine Coolant Heater Automatic Transmission Operation Locking Rear Axle Four-wheel Drive Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P)

2-29 2-29 2-30 2-3 1 2-33 2-3 3 2-40 2-42 2-44 2-48 2-5 8 2-59 2-60 2-62 2-64

Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked Windows Tilt Wheel Multifunction Lever Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter Sun Visors Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Cluster Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

Keys I A CAUTION:

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

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

If you ever lose your key, your dealer will be able to assist you with obtaining a new one.

Door Locks

I!\ CAUTION: Passengers -- especially children -- can easily

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

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

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use your key.

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Power Door Locks

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

Press the side of the power door lock switch marked LOCK on either front door to lock all the doors at once. Press the ribbed side of the switch to unlock all the

On four-door models, the manual switch on each rear door works only that door’s lock. It won’t lock (or unlock) all of the doors -- that’s a safety feature.

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On the passenger side of the rear cargo door or tailgate, there is a power lock switch which can be used to lock or unlock all of the doors.

Child Security Locks

With this feature, you can lock the rear side doors so they can’t be opened from the inside by passengers.

On vehicles with cargo doors, if the rear cargo lock switch is pressed with the cargo doors open, all of the doors will lock five seconds after the cargo doors are closed. If the cargo doors are closed, the vehicle doors will lock when a power door lock switch is pressed.

Move the button up to engage the security feature. Move the button down to return the door locks to normal operation. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out, and close the door.

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Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or your tailgate from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. In addition, your interior lamps will be illuminated for a set period of time when the transmitter signal is received by the Keyless Entry System. Your Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this:

Check to determine if battery replacement or transmitter resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.

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

a qualified technician for service.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.

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Operation To unlock the driver’s door, press the UNLOCK button. If you press this button again within five seconds, all the remaining doors will unlock. The interior lamps will come on for 40 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. Press the LOCK button to lock all the doors. The interior lamps will come on for two seconds as soon as all the doors are closed. The rear cargo doors or tailgate glass will unlock automatically when the REAR button on the transmitter is pressed twice within three seconds. If your vehicle is equipped with a rear liftglass, pressing the REAR button twice within three seconds will release the liftglass, but only if the transmission selector is in PARK (P). The interior lamps will come on for 40 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement

transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters matched to it. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

NOTICE:

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

Use one three volt, type CR2032, or equivalent battery.

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To replace the battery:

1.

2.

3. 4.

Insert a small coin, or flathead screwdriver, to separate the bottom of the transmitter from the top. Remove the battery and replace it with a new one, making sure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing down. Snap the top and bottom together. Test the operation of the transmitter with your vehicle. If the transmitter does not work, try synchronizing the transmitter with the receiver.

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

It can be dangerous to drive with the tailgate glass, tailgate or rear doors open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the tailgate glass, tailgate or rear doors open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the tailgate glass, tailgate or rear doors:

Make sure all windows are shut. f i r n the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Tailgate Glass and Tailgate If your vehicle has a tailgate, you must raise the rear glass before lowering the tailgate. To open the glass from the outside, use your key. With the key in the lock, turn the key clockwise to release the glass, then lift it up. To release the glass from the inside, use the electric tailgate glass release switch on the instrument panel. For more information, see “Tailgate -- Electric Glass Release” in the Index. To open the tailgate, lift up on the handle while pulling the tailgate toward you. Close the tailgate before closing the rear glass. After closing the tailgate, make sure the tailgate is securely latched by pulling it toward you. After closing the rear glass, pull up on its handle to make sure it is locked.

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Panel Doors To open the rear panel doors, you must open the passtnger’s side door first. If the door is locked, insert your door key in the lock and turn it counterclockwise to unlock it. To open the passenger’s side door, pull up on the handle and pull the door open. To open the driver’s side door, first open the passenger’s side door. Then, pull the handle on the left door edge out and pull the door open. The rear doors have a check assembly to keep them from fully opening during normal use. To fully open either rear door, you must release the check strap. To release the check strap just: 1. Open the door partway until the white mark on the check strap is fully outside the door edge. If the end of the strap catches the pin on the door, the door is open too far.

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2. Then, hold the strap at the white mark, pull the strap toward you and open the door all the way.

To re-engage the door check strap, just close the door and the strap will catch the pin. To close the doors, close the driver’s side door first. After securely closing the door, close the passenger’s side door. Make sure both doors are latched securely. To lock the rear doors from outside the vehicle, put your key in the lock and turn it clockwise. If you have power door locks, you can lock the side doors as well as the rear doors from inside the vehicle. For more information, see “Power Door Locks” in this section.

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

Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle?

Put your valuables in a storage area, like your glove box. Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

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New Vehicle “Break-In”

L NOTICE:

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

Ignition Positions Use your key to start your vehicle. The key lets you turn the ignition switch to five different positions.

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (805 km).

Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km).

Don’t make full-throttle starts.

0 Avoid making hard stops for the first

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

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

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

A -

ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. Push in the key and turn it towards you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key.

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

NOTICE:

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

Starting Your Gasoline Engine If you have a diesel engine, see “Starting Your Diesel Engine” in the Diesel Engine Supplement. Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE:

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

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

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

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NOTICE:

NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.

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

START. If it doesn’t start in 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way down for five more seconds, or until it starts.

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

stops), wait 15 seconds and start over. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

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

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Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

In very cold weather, 0°F (- 18 O C ) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help.

You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.

To Use the Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. - /!\ CAUTION:

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

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Automatic Transmission Operation

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

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

There are several different positions for your shift lever.

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Your vehicle now features an electronic shift position indicator within the instrument cluster. This display must be powered anytime the shift lever is capable of being moved out of PARK (P). This means that if your key is in OFF, rather than LOCK, there will be a small current drain on your battery which could discharge your battery over a period of time. If you have a need to leave your key in the ignition in OFF for an extended period for any reason, it is recommended that you disconnect the battery cable from the battery to prevent discharging your battery. PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If,you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). free to roll -- even if your shift lever is in If you have four-wheel drive, your vehicle will be PARK (P) -- if your transfer case is in NEUTRAL (N). So, be sure the transfer case is in high (4H) or four-wheel low (4L) -- not in a drive gear, two-wheel high (2H) or four-wheel NEUTRAL (N). See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

I NOTICE:

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

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index. NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

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

NOTICE:

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

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (03): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re:

Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0) can be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for off-road driving. You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0). SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

If you manually select SECOND (2), the transmission will drive in second gear. You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (1) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE:

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

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Locking Rear Axle (If Equipped) If you have this feature, your rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and the other does, the locking feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle. Four-wheel Drive If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. To get the most satisfaction out of four-wheel drive, you must be familiar with its operation. Read the part that follows before using four-wheel drive. You should use 2-WHEEL HIGH (2H) for most normal driving conditions.

1 NOTICE:

Driving in the 4-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or 4-WHEEL LOW (4L) positions for a long time on dry or wet pavement could shorten the life of your vehicle’s drivetrain.

Front Axle Locking Feature The front axle locks and unlocks automatically when you shift the transfer case. Some delay for the axle to lock or unlock is normal. If the outside temperature is very hot, or the vehicle has been used under hard driving conditions, there may be a slight delay for the axle to unlock.

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Manual Transfer Case

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

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

.. .

. . .. ..

... ...

. . .

The front axle portion of the indicator diagram will light up when you shift into four-wheel drive and the front axle engages. Some delay between shifting into four-wheel drive and the indicator’s lighting is normal. If the front axle light does not go out immediately after you shift out of four-wheel drive, have your dealer check your system.

The transfer case shift lever is on the floor to the right of the driver. Use this lever to shift into and out of four-wheel drive.

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An indicator near the lever shows you the transfer case settings: 2-Wheel High (2H): This setting is for driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. 4-Wheel High (4H): This setting engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle. Use 4H when you need extra traction, such as on wet or icy roads, or in most off-road situations. Neutral (N): Shift to this setting only when your vehicle needs to be towed or when using a power take-off. 4-Wheel Low (4L): This setting also engages your front axle to give you extra power and a higher driveline ratio. This position should be used only for off-road driving. You can shift from 2-WHEEL HIGH (2H) to 4-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or from 4-WHEEL HIGH (4H) to 2-WHEEL HIGH (2H) while the vehicle is moving. Your front axle may engage faster if you take your foot off of the accelerator for a few seconds after you shift. In extremely cold weather, it may be necessary to stop or slow the vehicle to shift into 4-WHEEL HIGH (4H).

To shift into or out of 4-WHEEL LOW (4L) or N (NEUTRAL): 1. Slow the vehicle to a roll, about 1 to 3 mph (2 to 5 km/h) and shift the transmission into NEUTRAL (N).

2. Shift the transfer case shift lever in one quick,

continuous motion.

Don’t pause in N (NEUTRAL) as you shift the transfer case into 4-WHEEL LOW (4L), or the gears could clash. Remember that driving in 4-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or 4-WHEEL LOW (4L) may reduce fuel economy. Also, driving in four-wheel drive on dry pavement could cause your tires to wear faster and make your transfer case harder to shift and run noisier. When your headlamps or parking lamps are on, rotate the thumb wheel next to the headlamp switch up to brighten, and down to dim your transfer case indicator light.

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Electronic Transfer Case (If Equipped)

If your four-wheel-drive vehicle has the electronic transfer case, the transfer case switches are below and to the left of the climate controls. Use these switches to shift into and out of four-wheel drive. You can choose among three driving settings: 2HI: This setting is for driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive.

4HI: This setting engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle. Use 4HI when you need extra traction, such as on snowy or icy roads, or in most off-road situations. 4LO: This setting also engages your front axle to give you extra traction. You may never need 4LO. It sends the maximum power to all four wheels. You might choose 4LO if you were driving off-road in sand, mud or deep snow and climbing or descending steep hills. Indicator lights in the switches show you which setting you are in. The indicator lights will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition and the last chosen setting will stay on. If the lights do not come on, you should take your vehicle in for service. An indicator light will flash while shifting. It will remain illuminated when the shift is completed. If for some reason the transfer case cannot make a requested shift, it will return to the last chosen setting.

Shifting from 2HI to 4HI Press and release the 4HI switch. This can be done at any speed, and the indicator light will flash while shifting. It will remain illuminated when the shft is completed.

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Shifting from 4HI to 2HI Press and release the 2HI switch. This can be done at any speed, and the system will unlock automatically.

Shifting from 2HI or 4HI to 4LO To shift from 2HI or 4HI to 4L0, the vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). The preferred method for shifting into 4LO is to have your vehicle moving 1 to 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Press and release the 4LO switch. You must wait for the 4LO indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting your transmission into gear. If the 4LO switch is pressed when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the 4LO indicator light will flash for 30 seconds and not complete the shift unless your vehicle is moving slower than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N).

Shifting from 4LO to 4HI or 2HI To shift from 4LO to 4HI or 2H1, your vehicle must be stopped or moving less than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) with the transmission in NEUTRAL (N). The preferred method for shifting out of 4LO is to have your vehicle moving 1 to 2 mph (1.6 to 3.2 km/h). Press and release the 4HI switch. You must wait for the 4HI indicator light to stop flashing and remain illuminated before shifting your transmission into gear. If the 4HI switch is pressed when your vehicle is in gear and/or moving, the 4HI indicator light will flash for 30 seconds but will not complete the shift unless the vehicle is moving slower than 3 mph (4.8 km/h) and the transmission is in NEUTRAL (N).

2-24

NOTICE:

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

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

Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.

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

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

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

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

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

set the parking brake.

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

0 Pull the lever toward you.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

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

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Move the lever up as far as it will go.

3. If you have four-wheel drive, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N).

4. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 5. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

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

you want.

5. Have the brake-transmission shift interlock system

fixed as soon as you can.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

Engine Exhaust

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if:

I A CAUl mON:

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

Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.

0 Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.

Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. Repairs weren’t done correctly. Your vehicle or exhaust system had been modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: 0 Drive it only with all the windows down to

blow out any CO; and Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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

Idling the engine with the air system control off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with 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.)

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It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. 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 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 To open your manual windows, turn the hand crank on each door to raise or lower your side door windows. Power Windows (If Equipped)

2-Door Utility

4-Door Utility and Suburban

If you have the optional power windows, the controls are on each of the side doors. The driver’s door has a switch for the passenger windows as well. Your power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to ACC or RUN. Push the rear of the switch with the power window symbol on it to lower the window. Push the front of the switch with the power window symbol on it to raise the window.

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The electric hatch release button lets you release the tailgate glass. To release the glass, press the top of the button.

Then, lift the window up to open. The shift lever must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) for the release to work. There is also a power door lock switch at the rear of the vehicle which will allow you to lock or unlock all of the doors. See “Power Doors Locks” in the Index.

The driver’s window switch has an express down feature that allows the window to be lowered without holding the switch. Press and hold the side of the window switch marked AUTO for one second to activate the express down mode. The express down mode can be canceled at any time by pressing the opposite side of the switch. To open the window partway, lightly tap the switch until the window is at the desired position. If you have a four-door vehicle and power windows, the power window switch has a lockout feature. This feature prevents the rear windows from operating except from the driver’s position, when the front driver’s side switch is in LOCK. When the switch is moved to NORM, the rear power windows will operate again. Electric Tailgate Glass Release Before operating your electric tailgate glass release, see the caution under “Your Doors and How They Work” in this section.

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Multifunction Lever

Horn Push on the air bag module in the center of the steering wheel to sound the horn. Tilt Wheel (If Equipped)

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive.

You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you enter and exit the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

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, 0 Windshield Washer and 0 Cruise Control (If Equipped).

2-33

Thrn Signal and Lane Change Indicator 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.

Q An arrow on the instrument

panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

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

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

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

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Windshield Wipers

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

For a single wiping cycle, turn the knob to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the knob 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 knob to choose the delay time. The closer to LOW, the shorter the delay.

to the

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

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Rear Window Wiper and Washer The rear window wipedwasher switch is on your instrument panel, to the right of the gage cluster.

To turn the wiper on, slide the switch all the way up. For delay wiping, slide the switch even with DELAY in the center position of the rear wiper control. The wiper will cycle every nine seconds. To wash the window, push in on the switch. Window washer fluid will continue to spray until the switch is released. The wiper will continue with three more wipes and then return to the setting that was chosen before the lever was pushed. The rear window washer uses the same fluid bottle as the front windshield washer. If the fluid level is low in

the washer fluid bottle, you may not be able to wash your rear window. If you can wash your windshield, but not your rear window, check the fluid level. Windshield Washer

the

with

At the top of the lever, there’s a paddle word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle.

A CAUTION: I -I

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.

Washer fluid will spray as long as you push the paddle. When you let go of the paddle, the wipers will continue to wipe for a few seconds and then either stop or return to the preset speed. The use of hood mounted air deflectors may adversely affect windshield wiper and washer performance. Cruise Control (If Equipped)

0 Cruise control can be dangerous where you

0 Cruise control can be dangerous on

can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.

Setting Cruise Control -

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.

When you apply your brakes, cruise control shuts off.

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.

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

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

Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it.

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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 half a second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at R/A.

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

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

steepness of the hill causes the vehicle speed to drop more than 15 mph (24 k d h ) below the set speed, your cruise control will automatically disengage. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills.

Ending Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control: 0 Step lightly on the brake pedal or

0 Move the cruise control

switch to OFF.

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

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

Push in the SET button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. To slow down in very small amounts, push the button for less than half a second. Each time you do this, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 kmk) slower.

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

Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. If the

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

Your parkingheadlamp knob is on the driver’s side of your instrument panel. Rotate the knob clockwise to the parking lamp symbol to turn on the following: 0 Parking Lamps,

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Sidemarker Lamps, Clearance Lamps (if you have them),

0 Taillamps, 0 License Plate Lamps and 0 Instrument Panel Lights. Rotate the knob clockwise again to the master lighting symbol to turn on all the lamps listed as well as the headlamps. Rotate the knob counterclockwise to OFF to turn off your lamps. Rotate the thumb wheel next to the knob up to adjust instrument panel lights. Rotate the thumb wheel up to the first notch to return the radio display and gearshift indicator LED display to full intensity when the headlamps or parking lamps are on. To turn on the dome lamps (with the vehicle doors closed) rotate the thumb wheel up to the second notch position. You can switch your headlamps from high to low beam by pulling on the turn signal/high beam lever. A circuit breaker protects your headlamps. If you have an electrical overload, your headlamps will flicker on and off. Have your headlamp wiring checked right away if this happens.

Headlamps-On Reminder A buzzer will sound when your headlamps are turned on and your ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY. If you need to use your headlamps when the ignition switch is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY, the buzzer can be turned off by turning the thumb wheel next to the parkingheadlamp switch all the way down. Daytime Running Lamps 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 a reduced brightness when: 0 the ignition is on,

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

When the DRL are on, only your headlamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t be lit up either. When it begins to get dark, your DRL indicator light is a reminder to turn your headlamp switch on. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When you turn 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.

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Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control The instrument panel intensity control is located next to the parkingkeadlamp switch. Rotate the thumb wheel up to adjust the instrument panel lights. Rotate the thumb wheel up to the first notch to return the radio display and gear shift indicator LED display to full intensity when the headlamps or parking lamps are on. To turn on the dome lamps (with the vehicle doors closed) rotate the thumb wheel up to the second notch position.

Illuminated Entry Your vehicle is equipped with an illuminated entry feature. When the doors are opened, the dome lamps will come on if the dome lamp button is in the out position. When all doors are closed or the dome lamp button is pressed in, the lamps will stay on for a short period of time and will then go out.

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Dome Lamps The dome lamps will come on when you open the doors. You can also turn the dome lamps on by rotating the thumb wheel, located next to the parkingheadlamps switch knob, all the way up to the second notch. In this position, the dome lamps will remain on whether the doors are opened or closed.

switch button once. With the switch button in this position, the dome lamps will remain off when the doors are open. To return the lamps to automatic operation, press the switch button again and return it to the “out” position. With the button in this position, the dome lamps will come on when you open the door. Reading Lamps

If your vehicle has reading lamps, press the button next to the lamp to turn the lamp on. The lamps can be adjusted to point in the direction you want.

You can use the DOME OVERRIDE button, located below the parking/headlamp knob, to set the dome lamps to come on automatically when the doors are opened, or remain off. To turn the lamps off, press the

Press the button again to turn the lamp off. If your vehicle has an overhead console with reading lamps, press the button next to the lamp to turn the lamp on. The lamps can be adjusted to point in the direction you want. Press the button again to turn the lamp off.

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Mirrors Inside Mirror

Electrochromic Inside Rearview Mirror with Compass (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have an electrochromic inside rearview mirror. When on, an electrochromic mirror automatically dims to the proper level to minimize glare from lights behind you after dark.

Push or pull the tab under the mirror to reduce glare from headlamps behind you after dark.

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The mirror also includes an eight point compass display in the upper right comer of the mirror face. When on, the compass automatically calibrates as the vehicle is driven.

Compass Operation Press COMP to turn the compass on or off. When the ignition and the compass feature are on, the compass will show two character boxes for approximately two seconds. After two seconds, the mirror will display the compass heading. When cleaning the mirror, use a paper towel or similar material dampened with glass cleaner. Do not spray glass cleaner directly on the mirror as that may cause the liquid cleaner to enter the mirror housing.

Compass Calibration If after two seconds the display does not show a compass heading (“N” for North, for example), there may be a strong magnetic field interfering with the compass. Such interference may be caused by a magnetic antenna mount, magnetic note pad holder or a similar magnetic item. If the letter “C” should ever appear in the compass window, the mirror may need calibration. The mirror can be calibrated in one of two ways: 0 Drive the vehicle in circles at five mph (8 kmh) or

less until the display reads a direction, or

0 Drive the vehicle on your everyday routine.

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Mirror Operation The right side of the switch located at the bottom of the mirror turns the electrochromic mirror on and off. The AUTO LED will come on when the electrochromic mirror is turned on. To turn the mirror on, press and hold the MIRROR button for three seconds. The mirror will darken and remain dark until the button is released. To turn the mirror off, press and release the MIRROR button.

Compass Variance The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if you live outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for compass variance. Compass variance is the difference between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic north. If not adjusted to account for compass variance, your compass could give false readings. To adjust for compass variance: 1.

Use the COMP button located at the bottom of the mirror. Press and hold the COMP button for three seconds until a zone number appears in the display. Find your current location and variance zone number on the following zone map.

2.

3.

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4. Press the COMP button on the bottom of the mirror until the new zone number appears in the display. After you stop pressing the button in, the display will show a compass direction within a few seconds.

Outside Mirrors Adjust your outside mirrors so you can just see the side of your vehicle and have a clear view of objects behind you. Some mirrors can be folded in to enter narrow doorways. Electric Outside Rearview Mirrors (If Equipped) If you have electric mirrors, they can be adjusted to point where you want from inside the vehicle.

Select the mirror you want to move by moving the center of the switch, located on the driver’s door armrest, to L (left) or R (right).

The use of hood mounted air deflectors and convex add-on mirror attachments may adversely affect mirror performance. Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror may be 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.

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

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2. Peel the protective

backing from the hook and loop patch. Press it firmly to the back of your garage door opener, as close to the center of the opener as possible.

3. Center the garage door opener activation button over the console door button, and press the opener firmly into place. The pegs inside the Compartment door are used to make sure the button on the compartment door will contact the control button on the garage door opener.

Storage Compartments Your vehicle has a variety of storage compartments designed to store small items. Glove Box To open your glove box, move the switch button toward the passenger’s side and pull the door open. Center Overhead Console (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have an overhead console. It has storage compartments inside it.

Garage Door Opener Compartment If you have a garage door opener, the front overhead compartment can be used to conveniently store the opener. 1. To install the garage door opener, first open the

compartment door by pressing the release button forward.

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4. Add one peg at a time until the PUSH button on the closed compartment door operates the garage door opener.

5. Now, with the

compartment door closed, push the button marked PUSH to make sure the garage door opener operates properly.

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With the garage door opener positioned properly and the right number of pegs in place, you should only have to push the PUSH button slightly to operate the opener. Adjust the position of the garage door opener and add or remove pegs, as needed, until the opener operates properly.

6.

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Sunglasses Compartment The center overhead compartment can be used to conveniently store your sunglasses.

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