1993 Chevrolet Tracker Owners Manual

CA UTiON A An electric fan can start up

even when the engine is not

running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals on each battery.

Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to

explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the Delco Freedom* battery installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.

Problems on the Road

\ Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. -eep your hands away from moving parts once the engines are running.

6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to

the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative (-) will go to negative (-) or a metal engine part. Don’t connect (+) to (-) or you’ll get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts, too.

1

7 . Don’t let the other end touch metal.

Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative ( -) terminal. Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.

9. Attach the cable at least 18 inches

(45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less.

Problems on the Road

I I-

10. Now start the vehicle with the good

battery and run the engine for awhile.

11. Try to start the vehicle with the

dead battery. If it won't start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don't touch each other or any other metal. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery

Towing Your Vehicle

Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Geo. The usual towing equipment is a sling-type (A) or a wheel-lift (B) or car carrier (C) tow truck. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers. When you call, tell the towing service:

A dolly must be used when from the front.

towing

rear-wheel

That your vehicle has drive, or that it has the four-wheel-drive option. The make, model, and year of your vehicle. Whether you can still move the shift levers for the transmission and transfer case, if you have one. If there was an accident, what was damaged.

When the towing service arrives, let the tow operator know that this manual contains detailed towing instructions and illustrations. The operator may want to see them.

T- help avoid injury to

you or

Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured.

in a straight-ahead

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key off. The steering wheel should be clamped position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. The transmission and transfer case, if you have one, should be in Neutral and the parking brake released.

0 Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by the tow truck.

* Always use separate safety

chains on each side when towing a vehicle. Never use T-hooks. Use “J” hooks instead.

Problems on the Road

Don’t have your vehicle towed with the I

CAUTION

Front Towing Hook-Ups Attach “J” hooks to the rear o control arms inboard of springs

If lower

A ’ \ carrier if it isn’t properly

A vehicle can fall from a car

,,cured. This can cause a collision, serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains or steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cut by sharp edges underneath the towed vehicle.

rear wheels in contact with the ground. If a vehicle must be towed from the front with sling-type or wheel lift equipment, the rear wheels must be supported on a dolly. If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, don’t have it towed on the front wheels unless you must. If a vehicle with four-wheel drive must be towed on the front wheels, set your manual, free-wheeling hubs to FREE or unlock your automatic free-wheeling hubs, and set your transfer case to two-wheel drive. If your vehicle must be towed on the front wheels, don’t go more than 55 mph (90 km/h). = 9.198

Position 4x4 wood beam across sling chains and against lower control arm front attachment brackets. Position the lower sling crossbar in front and against 4x4 wood beam.

Attach a separate safety chain around outboard end of each lower control arm.

Rear Towing Hook-Ups Attach “J” hooks around axle tube.

I Take care not to damage the brake I

pipes on the axle tubes.

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Position the sling crossbar under and forward of the rear bumper.

Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each side of the rear axle.

H Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage on your Geo instrument panel.

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If Steam Is Coming from Your Engine:

' Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just

from the engine if you see or hear steam

-open the hood. Stay away coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before opening the hood. If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.

If your engine catches fire becaw-

II IOU keep driving with no coolant,

four vehicle can be badly imaged. The costly repairs wou aot be covered by your warranty.

Problems on the Road

If No Steam Is Coming from Your Engine: If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer.

... 202

If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If you have an air conditioner, turn it

off.

2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the

highest fan speed and open the window as necessary.

3. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to

N (Neutral).

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about ten minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally.

If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND GET EVERYONE OUT OF THE VEHICLE until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.

When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 1. Coolant Recovery Tank 2. Radiator Pressure Cap 3. Electric Engine Fan

A An electric fan under the

hood can start up even when thL @ne is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. Don’t reach through the grille to

release the underhood lever. - I L

II E

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. The coolant level should be at or above FULL. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.

Heater and radiator hoses,

unu I l V l V 1 L and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.

203 =

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Engine damage from running yollr engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.

If there seems to be no leak, check to see if the electric engine fan is running. If the engine is overheating, the fan should be running. If it isn’t, your vehicle needs service.

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above FULL, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and the proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mix.)

A Adding only plain water to L your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid, like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water, or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean water and a proper antifreeze.

I

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above FULL, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there's one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mix directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.

' In cold weather, water can freeze

and crack the engine, radiator, \eater core and other parts. Us he recommended coolant.

I A You can be burned if you - b spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't -?ill coolant on a hot engine.

Steam and scalding liquids

- b from a hot cooling system car blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap - even a little - they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool il you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

205

Problems on the Road

2. Then keep turning but now push down Remove the pressure cap.

the pressure cap, as you turn it.

3. Fill the radiator with the proper mix,

up to the base of the filler neck.

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 1. You can remove

the radiator pressure

cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly to the left until it first stops. (Don't press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to

the FULL mark.

5. Put the cap back on the coolant

recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.

6. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fan. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mix through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

Problems on the Road

Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the ears on the pressure cap line up like this.

..

9 208

Zf a Tire Goes Hut

It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out’’ while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout, ” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you’d use in a skid.

In any rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible. If your tire goes flat, the next section shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely. ChanginQ a Flat lire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.

CAUTION A Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack

and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured.

Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving: 1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in P (Park). 3. Shift a manual transmission to 1 (First) or R (Reverse). 4. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the transfer case is in a

drive gear - not in N (Neutral).

The equipment you’ll need is under the front seats. The jack and wheel wrench are under the passenger’s seat.

5. Turn off the engine. To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move, you can put chocks at the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side of the vehicle, at the opposite end.

I The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire.

209

The jack handle is under the driver’s seat.

Start with the jack (A), jack handle (B) and wheel wrench (C).

The spare tire is mounted on your tailgate. Pull the cover off of the spare tire.

.210

Insert your key into the wheel lock and pull the wheel lock off.

Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove

them yet.

Remove wheel nuts with the wheel wrench. Remove the spare tire from the mounting bracket and place it near your flat tire. Attach the jack handle to the jack bolt. Rotate the jack handle clockwise (to the right). That will raise the lift head a little.

211

Problems on the Road

Under the vehicle near each wheel, there are bosses in the vehicle’s rocker flange. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly onto the bosses nearest the flat tire. Do not raise the vehicle yet.

Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack. Be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising your vehicle.

Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

A Getting under a vehicle when dangerous. If

it is jacked up is

L I I ~ vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.

. . 2 1 2

c

Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.

'_ .-

Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces or spare wheel. Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface.

Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is

fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the

rust or dirt off. - =

Problems on the Road

CAUTION * Never use oil or grease on 1 studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident.

Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel.

Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

... 21 4

I

Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the

completely.

Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-cross sequence as shown.

Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel can cause the wheel to

nuts become loose or even came off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be ' sure to get the right kind. Stop as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 60 pound-feet (80 N-m).

Problems on the Road

1. Front Passenger Seat 2. Jack 3. Clamp 4. Wrench 5. Jack Handle 6. Front Driver Seat

Replace the jack, jack handle, flat tire, and wheel wrench.

- compartment of the vehicle * Storing a tire in the passenger

- ould cause injury. Be sure to store the jack and other equipment properly. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.

Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as th tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transmission back and forth, you can destroy your transmission.

‘

If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode and you or others could be injured. And, the transmission and other parts of the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’t spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h) as shown on the speedometer.

Problems on the Road

-- --

Rocking your vehicle to get it out: First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. Then shift back and forth between R (Reverse) and a forward gear (or with a manual transmission, between First or Second gear and Reverse), spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transmission is in gear. If that

doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. Or, you can use your recovery hooks. If you do need to be towed out, see ‘‘Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

Using the Recovery Hooks If you ever get stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow, your Tracker is equipped with recovery hooks. The recovery hooks are provided at the front and rear of your vehicle. You may need to use them if you’re stuck off-road and need to be pulled to some place where you can continue driving.

The recovery hooks when used, are under a lot of force.

Always pull the vehicle straight out. Never pull on the hooks at a sideways angle. The hooks could break off and you or others could be injured from the chain or cable snapping back.

I Never use the recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your Tracker could be damaged and it would no1 be covered by warrant]

Notes

220

H e r e you wit1 find information about the care of your Geo . This part begins with service and fuel information. and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels . There is also technical information about your vehicle. and a section devoted to its appearance care .

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

Part 6 ii iervice & Appearance Care Service ............................................................. 222 Fuel ............................................................... 223 Checking Things under the Hood ........................................ 227 227 HoodRelease Engineoil ........................................................ 229 Aircleaner ........................................................ 233 Automatic Transmission Fluid ........................................ 234 Manual Transmission Fluid ........................................... 237 Clutch Adjustment .................................................. 238 RearAxle ......................................................... 238 Four-WheelDrive .................................................. 239 Enginecoolant ..................................................... 240 Power Steering Fluid ................................................ 243 Windshield Washer Fluid ............................................ 244 Brake Master Cylinder ............................................... 245 Battery ........................................................... 247 Bulb Replacement .................................................... 248 LoadingYourVehicle ................................................. 252 Tires ............................................................... 253 Appearancecare ..................................................... 261 Appearance Care and Maintenance Materials .............................. 271 Vehicle Identification Number .......................................... 272 Service Parts Identification Label ........................................ 272 Add-on Electrical Equipment ........................................... 272 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ............................................. 273 ReplacementBulbs ................................................... 276 221 . Capacities and Specifications ........................................... 277

!mice & Appearance Care

Geo than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service Publications” in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.

rn Service Your Geo dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people, We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks. Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to get the proper Geo Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your

... 222

You can be injured if you try to do service work on a

CA U TION I’ d-h vehicle without knowing enough about it. 9 Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, and proper replacement parts and- tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.

* Be sure to use the proper nuts,

bolts and other fasteners. “English” and “metric” fmners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.

r

I NOTICE

Fuel

Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications, ASTM D4814 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-M92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s easy to be sure you get the right kind of gasoline (unleaded). You’ll see UNLEADED right on the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you

drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal, and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem. What about gasoline with blending materials that contain oxygen, such as MTBE or alcohol?

223 -

Service & Appearance Care

MTBE is ‘ ‘methyl tertiary-butyl ether. ’ ’ Fuel that is no more than 15% MTBE is fine for your vehicle. Ethanol is ethyl or grain alcohol. Properly-blended fuel that is than 10% ethanol is fine for your vehicle. Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol.

no more

methanol is bad for your vehicle. on’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber pr That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. And e-? at 5% or less, there must be “cosolvents” and corrosion ,:eventers in this fuel +n hpll

Gasolines for Cleaner Air Your use of gasoline with detergent additives will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. That helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly. It’s good for your vehicle, and you’ll be doing your part for cleaner air. Many gasolines are now blended with materials called oxygenates. General Motors recommends that you use gasolines with these blending materials, such as MTBE and ethanol. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high carbon monoxide levels.

... 224

In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing reformulated gasolines. These gasolines are specially designed to reduce vehicle emissions. General Motors recommends that you use reformulated gasoline. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high ozone levels, You should ask your service station operators if their gasolines contain detergents and oxygenates, and if they have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions.

to find. Do

Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the U.S. or Canada, unleaded fuel may be hard not use leaded gasoline. If you use even one tankful, your emission controls won’t work well or at all. With continuous use, spark plugs can get fouled, the exhaust system can corrode, and your engine oil can deteriorate quickly. Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor will be damaged. All of that means costly repairs that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil

company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving. You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). General Motors of Canada Limited International Export Sales P.O. Box 828 Oshawa, Ontario LIH 7N1 Canada

Service & Appearance Care

Filling Your Tank b A u 1 l U / V 1 Gasoline vapor is highly and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from gasoline.

flammable. It bums violently,

The cap is behind a hinged door on the right side of your vehicle. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise).

... 226

If you get gasoline on you and then something ignites it, you

could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any “hiss” noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until you hear a clicking noise.

N U I I L t If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit or have proper venting, and your fuel tank and emissions system IT ‘It be damal

‘

‘

H Checking l7tings under

the Hood Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the release handle inside the glove box.

Then go to the front of the vehicle, push down lightly on the hood, and push the hood release lever to your left.

Lift the hood, release the hood prop from its retainer and put the hood prop into the slot in the hood.

227 = 9 9

Service & Appearance Care

7."

I LUU I l V 1 V

An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. Don't reach through the grille to release the underhood lever.

When you open the hood, you'll see: 1. Battery 2. Automatic Transmission Dipstick

(Option)

3. Oil Fill Cap 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Air Cleaner 6. Power Steering Reservoir (Option) 7. Engine Coolant Reservoir 8. Radiator Cap 9. Electric Fan 10. Engine Oil Dipstick

... 228

11. Windshield Washer Reservoir 12. Main Fuse Box CAUTION

A Things that burn can get on

hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on.

Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Then just let the hood down and close it firmly.

Engine Oil It’s a good idea to check your engine oil level every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.

To Check Engine Oil: Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip lower.

Service & Appearance Care

When to Add Oil: If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, you’ll need to add some oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications’’ in the Index.

Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the upper mark that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.

Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through.

Grade Engine Oils

Recommended SAE Viscosity

For best fuel economy and cold starting, select the lowest SAE viscosity grade oil for the expected temperature range. HOT

WEATHER 1-1 @

FOR THIS LABEL

4$ c~coNs.8 LOOK

1 5W.30

--

SAE 1OW-30

SAE 5W-30 PREFERRED

COLD

WEATHER IF NEITHER SAE 5W-30 NOR SAE 1OW-30 GRADE OILS ARE AVAILABLE, SAE 30 GRADE MAY BE USED AT TEMPERATURES ABOVE 40 DEGREES F (4 DEOREES C). DO NOT USE SAE 10W-40, SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE

OIL NOT RECOMMENDED.

SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 1OW-30 if it’s going to be 0°F (- 18°C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 2OW-50. Energy Conserving I1 Oils with these words on the container will help you save fuel.

231

What Kind of Oil to Use: Look for three things:

SG SG must be on the oil container, either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as SGKC, SG/CD, SF, SG, CC, etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality.

you use oils that don’t have the

BG designation, you can cause engine damage not covered Sy your warranty.

Service & Appearance Care

This doughnut-shaped logo (symbol) is used on most oil containers to help you select the correct oil. You should look for this on the oil container, and use only those oils that display the logo. GM Goodwrench@ oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil) meets all the requirements for your vehicle. Engine Oil Additives: Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Geo dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added.

‘

When to Change Engine Oil: See if any one of these is true for you:

Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km). It’s below freezing outside and most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km). The engine is at low speed most of the time (as in door-to-door delivery, or in stop-and-go traffic). You tow a trailer often. Most trips are through dusty places. The vehicle is frequently operated off-road.

If any one of these is true for your vehicle, you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months - whichever comes first. If none of them is true, change oil and filter every 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 7.5 months - whichever comes first.

What to Do with Used Oil:

CAUTION

Used engine oil contains

D things that have caused skin Gancer in laboratory animals. Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil.

Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oil from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of it by pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.

- m

Air Cleaner Refer to your Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

A Operating the engine with the L air cleaner off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working,on the engine with the air cleaner off.

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Service & Appearance Care

If the air cleaner is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner in place when you're driving.

Air Filter Replacement To check or replace the filter, remove the screws and lift up the cover.

... 234

Automatic Tmnsmissian Fluid When to Check and Change: A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to change your fluid. See "Scheduled Maintenance Services" the Index. How to Check: Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at a Geo dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

in

/ v u I I L - t

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission fluid level if you have been driving:

When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). At high speed for quite a while.

In heavy traffic - especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). To check transmission fluid hot: Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F (lO°C), drive the vehicle in D (Third Gear) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for ten minutes. Then follow the hot check procedures.

To check transmission fluid cold: A cold check is made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off and is used only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for five minutes if outside temperatures are 50°F (10°C) or more. If it's colder than 50°F (lO°C), you may have to idle the engine longer. A hot check must follow when fluid is added during a cold check.

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Service & Appearance Care

To check the fluid hot or cold:

Park your vehicle on a level place. Place the shift lever in P (Park) with the parking brake applied. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about in each range. Then, position the shift lever in P (Park). Let the engine run at idle for minutes or more.

three

three seconds

. . . 236

Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe a clean rag or paper towel.

it with

2. Push it back in all the way, wait

three seconds and then pull it back out again.

3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the COLD (A) area for a cold check or in the HOT (B) or cross-hatched area for a hot check. it should in all the

4. If the fluid level is where be, push the dipstick back way.

How to Add Fluid: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level up into the COLD area for a cold check or the HOT area for a hot check. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a pint. Don’t overfill. We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-11, because fluids with that label are made especially for our automatic transmission. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON@-I1 is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.

After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under “How to Check. ” When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way.

Manual Transmiisioon Fluid When to Check and Change: A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to find out when to change your transmission fluid. See ‘ ‘Scheduled Maintenance Services’ ’ in the Index. How to Check: Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at a Geo dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading.

9 0 much or too little fluid can ...anage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts, starting a fire. I sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid. Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transmission case.

237

Then, follow these steps: 1. Remove the filler plug. 2, Check that the lubricant level is up to

the bottom of the filler plug hole.

How to Add Fluid: Here’s how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to see what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 1 . Remove the filler plug. 2. Add fluid at the filler plug hole. Add

only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the filler plug hole.

3. Install the filler plug. Be sure the

plug is fully seated.

Clutch Adjustment The clutch linkage in your vehicle should be checked as recommended in your Maintenance Schedule. To check, push the clutch pedal down with your hand until you feel some resistance to movement of the pedal. If the pedal moves freely up to an inch (25 mm) or so before you feel resistance to the travel, adjustment isn’t needed. If there is no free travel or very little (less than 5/8 of an inch), see your dealer for adjustment.

Rear Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” and “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. How to Check Lubricant: If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.

What to Use: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

Four- Wheel Drive Most lubricant checks in this section also apply to four-wheel-drive vehicles. However, they have two additional systems that need lubrication. Transfer Case When to Check and Change Lubricant: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See ‘ ‘Scheduled Maintenance Services’ ’ in the Index. How to Check Lubricant: If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. Add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole.

What to Use: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Front Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant, and when to change it. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” and “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

Service & Appearance Care

How to Check Lubricant: If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant. If the differential is at operating temperature (warm), add enough lubricant to raise the level to the bottom of the filler plug hole. If the differential is cold, add enough lubricant to raise the level to 1/2 inch (12 mm) below the filler plug hole. What to Use: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of lubricant to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

Engine Coolant The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. The proper coolant for your Geo will:

Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to 258°F (125°C). Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights work as they should.

What to Use: Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze or approved recycled coolant that meets “GM Specification 6038M,” which won’t damage aluminum parts. Also use GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) with a complete coolant change. If you use these, you don’t need to add anything else.

r

Adding only plain water to b your cooling system can be dmgemus. Plaia water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix, With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean water and a proper antifreeve or approved recycled coolant.

If you have to add coolant more than four time a year, have your dealer check your cooling system.

If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additivies which claim to

Some conditions, such as air trapped in the cooling system, can affect the coolant level in the radiator. Check the coolant level when the engine is cold and follow the steps under ‘‘Adding Coolant” for the proper way to add coolant.

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Service & Appearance Care

Adding Coolant To Check Coolant: When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be LOW, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to FULL, or a little higher.

To Add Coolant: If you need more coolant, add the proper mix at the coolant recovery tank.

Add coolant mix at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.

, You can be burned if you - L spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.

Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and

radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap - even a little - when the engine and radiator are hot.

Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. When you replace your thermostat, an AC@ thermostat is recommended.

Power Steering Fluid How to Check Power Steering Fluid: Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.

Radiator Pressure Cap

I V U I I I J t Your radiator pressure cap is a 13 i (90 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiato filler neck.

When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an AC* cap is recommended.

Service & Appearance Care

When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the MAX mark. When the engine compartment is cool, the level should be at the MIN mark.

What to Add: Refer to the Mainten lance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

Windshield Washer Fluid To Add: Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer fluid until the bottle is full.

When adding power steering fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the prope: fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.

244

NO TIC€ When using concentrated wash fluid, follow the manufacturer‘ instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your I. -;her fl--- tank onl. 314 full when it’s very cold. ’his allows for expansion.

it is completely full.

Brake Master Cylinder Your brake master cylinder is here. It is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in your master cylinder might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all.

So, it isn’t a good idea to “top ofr ’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

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Service & Appearance Care

the

If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on

C A U TlON L,,E;ine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

Lefer to the Maintenance Schedule to etermine when to check your brake hid. See ‘‘Periodic Maintenance fl I1 Ispections” in the Index.

’

To Check Brake Fluid: You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. Just look at the windows on the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid levels should be above MIN. If they aren’t, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak. After work is done on the the brake hydraulic system make sure the levels are above MIN and below the top of each window. What to Add: When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid - such as Delco-Supreme II@ (GM Part No. 1052535). Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only.

I DOT-5 silicone brake fluid can I D0n.t

damage your llehicle. Don’t use it.

: put In tf

so1

wrong mnd 01 k d . For example, just a few drops mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake systt can damage brake system part so badly that they’ll have to b replaced. Brake fluid be careful not to spill fluid on your vehicle

Ige paint,

Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake parts in them, as your Geo does when it is new. When you replace parts of your braking system - for example, when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new ones put in - be sure you get new

genuine GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change, for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts.

Battery Every new Geo has a Delco Freedom@ battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom@ battery. Get one that has the catalog number shown on the original battery’s label. Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, take off the black, negative (-) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down.

Service & Appearance Care

‘.-I hdrm . I LUU 1 l U I V

I-

can

burn you and gas that can

A Batteries have acid that explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the Index for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt.

Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods.

Headlights To replace the headlight bulb: 1. Open the hood. 2. Press down on the tab and pull

rearward, while holding the headlight wiring harness, to disconnect it from the bulb.

rn Bulb Replacement See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to check the size and type of bulb you need to use. Halogen Bulbs

Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can

uurst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Take special care when handling and disposing of halogen bulbs.

3. Turn the lock ring to the left to

release the bulb.

4. Puli the lock ring and the headlight bulb straight out. Save the lock ring and use with the new bulb.

5. Reverse the steps with a new bulb.

Front Parking and Turn Signal Lights To replace the parking and turn signal bulb: 1 . Open the hood. 2. Turn the bulb socket to the left and

pull it out of light housing.

Service & Appearance Care

, i

3. Push the bulb in, turn it to the left

and pull it out.

4. Reverse the steps with a new bulb.

Sidemarker Lights To replace the sidemarker bulb: 1. Push the sidemarker housing toward the back of the vehicle and pull out the front edge. The housing should pull away from the vehicle.

2. Turn the socket to the left and pull it

out of the housing.

3. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 4. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. Rear Sidemarker Lights To replace the rear sidemarker bulb: 1. Remove the screw (hardtop only). 2. Pull the sidemarker light housing out

at the front edge.

3. Turn the socket to the left and pull it

out.

4. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 5. Reverse the steps with a new bulb.

i --

Rear Combination Lights To remove the rear combination bulbs: 1. Remove the two screws from the

combination lights.

2. Pull the combination light out far enough to reach the bulb socket.

3. Turn the socket to the left and pull it

out.

4. Pull the bulb out of the socket. 5. Reverse the steps with a new bulb.

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Service & Appearance Care

Loading Your Vehicle Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. The Tire-Loading Information label found on the driver’s door lock pillar tells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation pressures for the tires on your vehicle. It also gives you important information about the number of people that can be in your vehicle and the total weight that you can carry. This weight is called the Vehicle Capacity Weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo, and all nonfactory-installed options.

The other label is the Certification label, 1

found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. Don’t carry more than 900 pounds (408 kilograms) in your rear area.

CAUTION

Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR or

the maximum front and rear GAWRs. If you do, parts on you] vehicle can break, or it can chang the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

I NOTICE Your warranty does not cover parts or components that fail because of overloading.

If you put things inside your vehicle - like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else - they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they’ll keep going.

Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure

people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash.

Put things in the rear area of your vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly.

* Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats.

* When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can.

Tires

We don’t make tires. Your new vehicle comes with high quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. These tires are warranted by the tire manufacturers and their warranties are delivered with every new Geo. If your spare tire is a different brand than your road tires, you will have a tire warranty folder from each of these manufacturers.

9 Don’t have a seat folded down

unless you need to.

253 9

Service & Appearance Care

A Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.

9 Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index.

* Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The

resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when the tires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured, or broken by a sudden impact, such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them. Don’t drive over 85 mph (135 kmh) even if it’s legal, unless you have the correct high speed rated tires.

254

Inflation - Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label which is on the driver’s door lock pillar shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires, when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than a mile.

NO TIC€ I Don’t let anyone tell you that

underinflation or overinflation is

If your tires have too rnllrh air (overinflation), y Unusual wear Bad handling

When to Check: Check your tires once a month or more. How to Check: Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. Simply looking at the tires will not tell you the pressure, especially if you have radial tires - which may look properly inflated even if they’re underinflated. If your tires have valve caps, be sure to put them back on. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.

Tire Inspection and Rotation To make your tires last longer, have them inspected and rotated at the mileages recommended in your Maintenance Schedule. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. Use this rotation pattern.

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Service & Appearance Care

If your spare wheel does not match your other wheels, you may want to use this pattern. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressure as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque’’ in the Index.

256

CA U TION A Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on

the parts to which it is

fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off. (See “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index.)

When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. You need a new tire if

You can see the indicators at three places around the tire. You can see cord or fabric showing through the tire’s rubber. The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric.

The tire has a bump, bulge or split. The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.

Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with