1993 Chevrolet Tracker Owners Manual

If You Do Decide to Pull a Trailer If you do, here are some important points.

There are many different laws having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.

Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 h / h ) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. Three important considerations have to do with weight: Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,500 pounds (680 kg). But even that can be too heavy.

It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or write us at:

Customer Assistance Department Chevrolet/Geo P.O. Box 7047 Troy, MI 48007 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

Your Driving and the Road

Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total gross weight of your vehicle. The gross vehicle weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See “Loading Your Vehicle’’ in the Index for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.

... 180

The trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer. Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver’s door (or see “Tire

Loading” in the Index). Then be sure you won’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle.

Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by, and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow:

Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you install a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly carbon monoxide

(CO) from your exhaust can get into your vehicle (see “Carbon Monoxide’’ in the Index). Dirt and water can, too. The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper.

Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety chains. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.

Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes - and they must be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly.

Don’t tap into your vehicle’s brake system if the trailer’s brake system will use more than 0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle’s master cylinder. If it does, both braking systems won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.

Your Driving and the Road

Will the trailer brake parts take 3,000 psi (20 650 kPa) of pressure? If not, the trailer brake system must not be used with your vehicle. If everything checks out this far, then make the brake fluid tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends fluid to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper tubing for this. If you do, it will bend and finally break off. Use steel brake tubing.

Driving With a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly so responsive as your vehicle is by itself.

Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform, safety chains, electrical connector, lights, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lights and any trailer brakes are still working.

182

Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane.

Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you. Making Turns When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees, or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.

Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have a different turn signal flasher and extra wiring. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lights will also flash telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes, or stop. When towing a trailer, the green arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when

Your Driving and the Road

they are not. It’s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working. Driving on Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce your speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of engine and transmission overheating.

. . . 184

If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg), and you have a manual transmission with fifth gear, it’s better not to use fifth gear. Just drive in fourth gear (or, as you need to, a lower gear). Parking on Hills You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t

trailer can

shift into P (Park) yet, or into gear for a manual transmission.

2. Have someone place chocks under

the trailer wheels.

3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.

4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then

apply your parking brake, and then shift to P (Park), or R (Reverse) for a manual transmission.

5. If you have a four-wheel-drive

vehicle, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear - not in N (Neutral).

J It

be dangerous tu get out

of your vehicle if the shift lever

is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. If you have left the engine running, the veficle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you have four-wheel drive, and your transfer case is in N (NeutraI) , your vehicle will be free to roll, even if your shift lever is in P (Park). So, be sure the transfer case is in a drive gear - not in N (Neutral). If you are parking on a hill, or if you’re pulling a trailer; also see “Parking On Hills” in the Index.

6. Release the regular brakes.

When You Are Ready to Leave after Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold

the pedal down while you:

Start your engine; Shift into a gear; and Release the parking brake.

2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear

of the chocks.

4. Stop and have someone pick up and

store the chocks.

Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belts, cooling system, and brake adjustment. Each of the these is covered in this manual, and Index will help you find them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.

185 9

Your Driving and the Road

Recreational Towing

There may be times when you want to tow your Geo behind another vehicle for use at your destination. Be sure to use the proper towing equipment designed for recreational towing. Follow the instructions for the towing equipment.

Towing Your Geo from the Rear The best way to tow your Geo is from the rear. Follow these steps: 1 . Put the rear wheels on a dolly.

NOTlCE Do not tow your Geo with the re-- wheels in contact with the grounL, or the transmission could be damaged.

2. Set the parking brake. 3. If your Geo is a four-wheel-drive

vehicle, set your manual free-wheeling hubs to FREE or unlock your automatic free-wheeling hubs. See “Four-Wheel Drive’’ in the Index.

4. Turn the ignition key to ACC to

unlock the steering wheel.

5. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing.

6. Release the parking brake.

186

Make sure that the towing speed dues not exceed 55 mph (90 km/h), or your Geo could be badly damaged.

Towing Your Geo from the Front

If your vehicle has automatic I free-wheeling hubs or two-whet I wheels. If you do, you

drive, do not tow it on all fa

transmission could be damaged.

If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle with manual free-wheeling hubs, it can be towed from the front with all four wheels on the ground. Follow these steps: 1. Set the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition key to ACC to

unlock the steering wheel.

Your Driving and the Road

Stop towing every 200 miles (300 km) and start the engine. Leave the transfer case shift lever in N (Neutral). Shift your automatic transmission to D (Drive); leave a manual transmission in 2 (Second) and release the clutch. Run the engine at medium speed for one minute to circulate the oil in the transfer case. Turn the ignition key to ACC. Now, you can continue towing your Geo .

NU I Kt Make sure that the towing speed does not exceed 50 mph (80 km/h), or your Geo could badly damaged.

3. Shift your automatic transmission

into P (Park), or your manual transmission into 2 (Second).

4. Shift the transfer case to N (Neutral). 5. Set the hubs to FREE. See

“Four-Wheel Drive” in the Index.

6. Release the parking brake.

= -

9 188

Problems on the Road

H e r e you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.

Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190 rumpstarting ........................................................ 191 I‘owingYourVehicle ................................................. 196 3ngineOverheating ................................................... 200 [faTireGoesFlat .................................................... 208 [f You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .217

189- -

Problems on the Road

I Hazard Warning

fishers

Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lights will flash on and off.

'our fr 'on t

Press th e button in t :o mak and rear turn signal lights flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is even if the key isn't in.

in, and

off the flashers, push the switch

To turn again. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won't work. Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle.

Jump Startirtg

If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Geo. But please follow the steps below to do it safely.

Batteries can hurt you. They L can be dangerous because:

0 They contain acid that can burn

you. They contain gas that can explode or ignite. They contain enough electricity to burn you.

If you don't follow these steps exactly, some or all of these thin can hurt you.

Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn't be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your Geo by pushing or pulling it could damage your vehicle, even if you have a manual transmission. And if you have an automatic transmission, it won't start that way.

191

Problems on the Road

To Jump Start Your Geo 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have

a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

If the other system isn’t a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged.

2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Geo, and the bad grounding could darnage the electrical systems.

- 1

CAUTION

A You could be injured if the

vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in N (Neutral). If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure the transfer case is not in N (Neutral).

3. Turn off the ignition on both

vehicles. Turn off all lights that aren’t needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio!

f you leave your radio on, it ould be badly damaged. T

2 cove--? by ?pairs wouldn’i our warrant.

4. Open the hoods and locate the

batteries.

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.

Problems on the Road

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.

. = = 200

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 =

Problems on the Road

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.

233 - =

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.

235

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.