1996 Chevrolet Tracker Owners Manual

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Gem The 1996 Geo Tracker Owner’s Manual

,This section explains how to start and operate your Geo.

This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the air bag system.

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

Seats and Restraint Systems ............................................................. FeaturesandControls .................................................................. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems ..................................................... YourDrivingandtheRoad .............................................................. Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. ServiceandAppearanceCare. ........................................................... . M a i n t e n a n c e S c h e d u l e . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Customer Assistance Information ........................................................ Index ................................................................................

This section tells you how to contact Chevrolet/Geo for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-8.

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

Here the manual tells you how to keep your Geo running properly and

looking good.

Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

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GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, GEO, the GEO Emblem and the name TRACKER are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation, time it This manual includes the latest information at the was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Chevrolet/Geo whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your Geo, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

Litho in U S A . Part No. 10277493 B First Edition

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We support voluntary technician certification.

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I - ”’ WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

National Institute for

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

E X C E L L E N C E

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux proprietaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en franpis chez votre concessionaire ou au:

DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, O n m o L5T IC7

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1995 All Rights Reserved

4-DOOr Hardtop

2-Door Convertible

About Driving Your Geo As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate , this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an accident. Be sure to read the “on-pavement” and “off-road” driving guidelines in this manual. (See “Driving Guidelines” and “Off-Road Driving with your Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicle” in the Index.)

How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index ’ A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it.

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You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,’’ “Don’t do this,’’ or “Don’t let this happen.”

Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

CAUTION:

‘ .

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.

In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

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Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices:

NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.

For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

FASTEN SEAT BELTS

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

TURN

SIGNALS e e3 LAMPS pq

PARKING

WINDSHIELD WIPER

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

,\I/,

DAYTIME * RUNNING

LAMPS ' * *

$0

VENTILATING FAN

&?

FOG LAMPS

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC

A C I b T E L i CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

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FUSE *

Here are some other symbols you may see:

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

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ENGINE t

COOLANT TEMP

LIGHTER

(0) HORN )tr SPEAKER b

BAllERY CHARGING SYSTEM

BRAKE

COOLANT

ENGINE OIL w, ANTI-LOCK (@)

PRESSURE

BRAKES

FUEL

Ge@ Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Geo and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls This part tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining front seatbacks, head restraints, easy entry seats and the folding rear seatback. Manual Front Seat

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.

Lift the lever under the front seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Reclining Front Seatbacks

To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the lever, and the seat will go to its oripinal upright position.

But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

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job when

Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

a crash the

Head Restraints Head restraints are fixed on some models and adjustable on others. Slide an adjustable head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. To raise or lower the restraint, push in the release while you pull up or push down on the restraint.

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A CAUTION: -

If any easy entry seat isn’t locked, it can move. In a sudden stop or crash, the person sitting there could be injured. And, even if there is no crash or sudden stop, a driver sitting in an unlocked easy entry seat could be startled by the sudden movement and hit the wrong control or pedal, causing an accident. After you’ve used it, be sure to push rearward on any easy entry seat ta be sure it is locked.

Easy Entry Seats (2-Door)

The front seats of your vehicle make it easy to get in and out of the rear seat.

When you pull up on the recliner release lever, the seatback will tilt forward and the whole seat can slide forward by hand. After someone gets into the rearseat area, move the seatback to its original position. Then move the seat rearward until it locks.

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0 To get out, pull the release handle on the rear of the

passenger’s side front seat.

Folding the Rear Seatback (2-Door Models) The rear seat in your Geo folds to provide more cargo space. To fold the rear seat, lower the rear seatback and then flip the whole rear seat up against the front seats.

1. Swing the safety belt buckles forward and down.

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2. Pull the knobs on both sides of the seatback. If

you have the split rear seat, you can fold half of the seat by pulling only the knob on the side you wish to fold.

3. Fold the seatback down.

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4. Unlock the bottom part of the seat:

0 On the one-piece rear seat, pull out the

release ring.

0 On the split rear seat, lift the release lever on

either seat.

5. Lift the bottom of the seat up and push it toward the

front of the vehicle.

6. Find the support bar on the bottom of the seat. This

bar keeps the rear seat from unfolding.

7. Pull the inner end of the support off of the seat

bracket and swing it down.

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To unfold the seat: Keep your hands, safety belts and other objects away from where the seat will rest. 1.

Pull the support bar out of the floor bracket and swing it up and toward the bottom of the seat. Push and secure the support bar into the bracket on the bottom of the seat. Slowly pull the seat down to the floor. The seat should latch into place. Pull up on the bottom of the seat to be sure it is locked in position. Pull the seatback up and push it back to lock it into place. Push and pull the top of the seatback to be sure the seatback is locked in position.

2.

3.

4.

8. Attach support bar to the floor bracket.

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The rear seat in your Geo folds forward to provide more cargo space. To fold the rear seat forward:

2. Pull up on the lock knob on the top of each seatback

1. Tuck the seatbelts into the storage groove between

the seatbacks.

3. While pulling up on the lock knob, fold each rear

seatback down. Both rear seatbacks must be folded down in order to move the seat forward.

4. Unsnap the strap located on the back of the

passenger’s side rear seatback.

5. Pull the release ring out to unlock the bottom of

the seat.

6. Lift the bottom of the seat up and push it toward the

front of the vehicle.

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To raise the rear seat: 1.

Unhook the strap from the floor loop and snap it on the back of the passenger’s side rear seatback. Slowly pull the seat down to the floor until it latches into place. Pull up on the bottom of the seat to be sure it is locked into position. While pulling the lock knob up on each rear seatback, pull each seatback up and push it into place. Push and pull the top of the seatback to be sure it is locked into position.

2.

3.

7. Hook the strap to the floor loop to secure the folded

rear seat.

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Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the air bag system.

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.)

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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hy Safety When you ride it goes.

Belts WOI 1 in or on anything, you go as fast as

Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.

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Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

or the instrument panel . . .

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or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That's why safety belts make such good sense.

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.

Q: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to

wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 kmb). Safety belts are for everyone.

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller chldren and babies. If a child will be riding in your Geo, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position. Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

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

Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

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

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

6& CAUTION:

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

=A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

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- A CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

e.' What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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e.' What's wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn, under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren't as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

Q: What’s wrong with this?

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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Air Bag System This part explains the air bag system. Your Geo has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

I 6% CAUTION: You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you have an air bag. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air bag is only a “supplemental restraint.” That is, it works with safety belts but doesn’t replace them. CAUTION: (Continued)

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

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Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits They aren’t designed to inflate at all in -thing. rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver, should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

A CAUTION:

An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children” and the caution label on the right front passenger’s safety belt.

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which show-s AIR BAG.

AIR BAG

The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light’’ in the Index for more information.

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How the Air Bag System Works

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Where is the air bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

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Don’t put anything on, or attach anything to, the steering wheel or instrument panel. Also, don’t put anything (such as pets or objects) between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument panel. If something is between an occupant and an air bag, it could affect the performance of the air bag -- or worse, it could cause injury.

When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher.

The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only one indication of this. The air bag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage. Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off-Road Driving” in the Index for more tips on off-road driving. What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system signals the inflator to produce a gas that inflates the air bags. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

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How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal colli.sions. What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, will be hot for a short time. The part of the bag that comes into contact with you may be warm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle. 1-28

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

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

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

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

NOTICE:

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

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

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

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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@ Is there anything I might add to the front of the

vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly?

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

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Geo @ If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the

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

A: As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is

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

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Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position” earlier in this section. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts.

those who are

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Lap-Shoulder Belt The rear seats have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

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

Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

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

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

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The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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

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

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

Smaller Children and Babies

~~

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

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

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

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

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

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

1-37

Top Strap

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position

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

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you have a two-door model, don’t use a restraint like that in your vehicle because the top strap anchor cannot be installed properly. You shouldn’t use this type of restraint without anchoring the top strap. If your vehicle is a four-door model and you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Geo dealer to put one in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. 1-38

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

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

the retractor to set the lock.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

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

I A CAUTION:

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

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

retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

1-40

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

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

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

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

1-41

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

the retractor to set the lock.

7. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint,

8. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

Larger Children

Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. 0 Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in

a crash.

0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

1-43

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

What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide.

A:

1-44

,’\ CAUTION:

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

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

1-45

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

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) 1-46

NOTES

1-47

NOTES

1-48

GeGD Section 2 Features and Controls

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

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

2-1

One key is used for the ignition, the doors and all other locks. When a new Tracker is delivered, the dealer removes the metal plate from the key ring and gives it to the first owner.

NOTICE:

Your Geo has a number of features that can help prevent theft. However, you can have a lot of trouble getting into your ,vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have an extra key.

The metal plate has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the code in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you'll be able to have new ones made easily using this code.

Door Locks

Unlocked doors can be dangerous.

Passengers -- especially children -- can easily

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

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use your key. To lock the door, turn the key toward the front of the vehicle. To unlock the door, turn the key toward the rear.

To lock the door from the inside, push down the button on the door. To unlock it, pull up on the button.

-1

Power Door Locks (Option)

Push the front of the power door lock switch to lock all the doors and the tailgate. To unlock the doors and tailgate, push the rear of the power door lock switch.

2-3

Rear Door Security Locks ($-Door Models) Your Ge6 is equipped with rear security door locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside.

To use one of these locks: 1. Move the lever down to engage the lock. 2. Close the door. 3. Do the same to the other rear door lock. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use.

If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on, unlock the door from the inside, then open the door from the outside. If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and older children know how these security locks work, and how to cancel the locks. To cancel the rear door lock: 1. Unlock the door from the inside and open the door

from the outside.

2. Move the lever up to disengage the lock. 3. Do the same for the other rear door. The rear door locks will now work normally. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door.

2-4

Tailgate

Tailgate Lock Release

Use your key to lock or unlock your tailgate.

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

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

See “Engine Exhaust’’ in the Index.

If you have a convertible, you can still open or close the tailgate with the rear window closed. Theft Vehicle theft is big business? especially in some cities. Although your Geo has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help.

2-5

Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your Geo and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition. If you have an automatic transmission, taking your key out also locks your transmission. And remember to lock the doors. Parking at Night Park in a lighted spat, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.

New Vehicle 46Break-InS’

NOTICE:

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

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts, 0 Avoid making hard stops for the first

200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

2-6

Ignition Positions

With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions.,

LOCK (A): The only position in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission. If you have an automatic transmission, the ignition switch can’t be turned to LOCK unless the shift lever is in the PARK (P) position.

ACC (B): The position that you can operate your electrical power accessories. It unlocks the steering wheel and ignition. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed. ON (C): The position in which the switch returns to after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the ON position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use ON to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel warning and indicator lights. START (D): The position in which the engine starts. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to ON for normal driving. When the engine is not running, ACC and ON allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio and ventilation fan. A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in ACC or LOCK and the key is in the ignition.

2-7

A CAUTION:

On manual transmission vehicles, turning the key to LOCK will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could cause a collision. If you need to turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key only to ACC. Don’t push the key in while the vehicle is moving.

NOTICE:

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

Starting Your Engine Automatic transmission Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE:

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

~~

Manual transmission The geax selector should be in NEUTRAL (N). Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that’s a safety feature.

Starting Your 1.6 Liter Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key.

NOTICE:

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

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

START for about three seconds at a time until your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery.

If your engine still won’t start, call your dealer for help.

NOTICE:

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

2-9

Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever.

A CAUTION:

~~

~~~

~~~~~

~~

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

PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

2-10

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Geo has a brake-transmission shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the ON position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

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

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

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

NOTICE:

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

2-11

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

Going less than about 15 mpb (25 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 15 mph (25 h/h) or more, push your accelerator pedal all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

LOW (L): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud, If the selector lever is put in LOW (L), the transmission won’t shift into low gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE:

Don’t shift into LOW (L) at speeds above 40 mph (65 km/h) with the transfer case in FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L), or you can damage your transmission.

Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h) with the transfer case in FOUR HIGH (4H), or 35 mph (55 km/h) with the transfer case in FOUR LOW (4L) or you can damage your transmission.

2-12

NOTICE:

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

Power Mode Selector Switch

A power mode selector switch is included. When you need more power for climbing hills or quicker acceleration, press the P (POWER) switch.

The POWER indicator light on the instrument panel comes on. For normal driving, press the N (NORMAL) switch. The POWER indicator light goes off. Overdrive Off Switch (Option) The overdrive off switch is located on the left side of the shifter. By operating the overdrive off switch, the four-speed automatic transmission (three-speed plus overdrive) can be converted to a three-speed automatic transmission. While in the three-speed mode, the transmission will not shift into the overdrive position. To convert the transmission to the three-speed mode, push in the overdrive off switch and release it. The switch comes out and the O D OFF indicator light on the instrument panel comes on. To return the transmission to the four-speed mode, push in the overdrive off switch again. The switch will remain in and the O/D OFF indicator light goes off. Please note that if the transfer lever is in the 4L position, the four-speed automatic transmission will remain in the three-speed mode.

2-13

Manual Transmission 5-Speed

This is your shift pattern.

2-14

Here’s how to operate your transmission: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into F’IRST (1) when you’re going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST (l), put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1). SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up on the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH ( 5 ) the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL (N).

I 2-15

NEUTRAL (N): Use this position when you start or idle your engine. REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal. You cannot go from FIFTH (5) into REVERSE (R). If you try, you will be locked out. You must first shift into NEUTRAL (N), move the lever to the left, back to the right, and then shift into REVERSE (R). This is a > safety feature.

NOTICE:

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

Also, use REVERSE (R) along with the parking brake for parking your vehicle.

Shift Speeds ,L\ CAUTION:

If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. And you could injure yourself or others. Don’t shift from FIFTH (5) to SECOND (2) or from FOURTH (4) to FIRST (1).

This chart shows when to shift to the next higher gear for best fuel economy.

Four-wheel Drive (Option) If your vehicle has four-wheel drive, you can send your engine’s driving power to all four wheels for extra traction. To shift out of two-wheel drive and into four-wheel drive, lock the freewheeling hubs (manual hubs only) and move the transfer case shift lever to FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L) (see the following). You should use TWO-WHEEL HIGH (2H) for most normal driving.

NOTICE:

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

Acceleration Shift Speed I Cruise Shift Speed It02 2 t o 3 3 t o 4 4 t o 5 2 t o 3 3 t o 4

4 t o 5 40 45 20tO 26 30 to 35 39to 45 1 72 132 to 42148 to 56163 to 721 I 64

mph

km/h

15

I 24

25

I 40

If your speed drops below 20 mph (32 km/h), or if the engine is not running smoothly, you should downshift to the next lower gear. You may have to downshift two or more gears to keep the engine running smoothly or for good performance.

NOTICE:

If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, or if you race the engine when you downshift, you can damage the clutch or transmission.

2-16

Freewheeling Hubs

NOTICE:

Don’t drive in TWO-WHEEL HIGH (2H) with the manual locking hubs in LOCK. If you do, you could damage your front driveshaft parts.

Your vehicle may have either manual or automatic freewheeling hubs. You must lock the hubs before you use FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L). Manu21 To lock or unlock the hubs, you must park your vehicle (see “Shifting into PARK‘ (P>” or “Parking Your Vehicle” in the Index) and get out. To lock the hubs, turn the hub dials to LOCK.

To unlock the hubs, turn the hub dials to FREE.

2-17

Automatic With automatic freewheeling hubs, you don’t have to get out &the vehicle to lock or unlock the hubs. Locking the Hubs 1. Stop your vehicle. 2. Shift the transfer case to FOUR-WHEEL

HIGH (4H) or FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L). 3, Drive slowly forward and the hubs will lock.

Unlocking the Hubs 1. Stop your vehicle. 2. Drive 7 feet (2 m) in the direction opposite to the

direction you were driving before you stopped.

3. Then, press the clutch if you have a manual transmission, and shift the transfer case to TWO-WHEEL HIGH (2H). The hubs will unlock.

2-18

Transfer Case

The transfer case shift lever is on the floor to the right of the driver. Use this lever to shift into and out of four-wheel drive. An indicator light comes on when the transfer case is in FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L).

TWO-WHEEL HIGH (2H): This setting is for driving in most street and highway situations. Your front axle is not engaged in two-wheel drive. FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H): This setting engages your front axle to help drive your vehicle. Use FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) when you need extra traction, such as on wet or icy roads, or in most off-road situations. NEUTRAL (N): Shft to this setting only when your vehicle needs to be towed. FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L): This setting also engages your front axle to give you extra traction and can be used for driving downhill, uphill or on rocky terrain when you’re driving slower than 35 mph (55 km/h). Remember that driving in FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L) may reduce fuel economy. Also, driving in four-wheel drive on dry pavement could cause your tires to wear faster and make your transfer case harder to shift.

You can shift from TWO-WHEEL HIGH (2H) to FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) or from FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H) to TWO-WHEEL HIGH (2H) at any speed if your hubs are locked and your wheels are straight ahead. Your front axle will engage fas,ter if you take your foot off the accelerator pedal for a few seconds as you shift. Shifting Into or Out of FOUR-WHEEL LOW (4L) 1. Stop your vehicle and shift your transmission

to NEUTRAL (N).

2. Shift the transfer case in one continuous motion. Don’t pause in NEUTRAL (N) as you shift into FOUR-WHEEL HIGH (4H), or your gears could clash.

2-19

Parking Brake

To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down and pull up on the parking brake lever. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.

To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can push in the release button. Hold the release button in as you move the lever all the way down.

2-20

I NOTICE:

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

If you are towing a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission Models Only)

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

2-21

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by holding in the button on the lever and pushing the lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle.

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

4. Move the key to LOCK. 5. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can

leave your vehicle with the key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission Models Only) A CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. If you have four-wheel drive and your transfer case is in NEUTRAL (N), your vehicle will be free to roll, the transfer case is in a drive gear -- not in even if your shift lever is in PARK (P). So be sure NEUTRAL (N). And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.

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

Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission) Your Geo has a brake-transmission shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the ON position. See “Automatic Transmission’’ in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 6. 2. If the engine is running, shut it off. Turn the key to

ON or ACC.

3. Find the access hole cover on the driver’s side of the

console, near the shift lever. 4. Remove the screw and cover. 5. Inside you’ll see the return plate. Using your finger, move the return plate toward the rear of the vehicle until it stops.

6. Move the shift lever into the gear you want. 7. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as possible.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission) Before you get out of your vehicle, put your manual transmission in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the parking brake. If you have four-wheel drive, be sure your transfer case is in a drive gear. Your vehicle could roll if it isn’t. If you are towing a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

CAUTION:

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

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Engine Exhaust

tunning Your Engine While You’re ’arked (Automatic Transmission) It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

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

Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. Repairs weren’t done correctly. Your vehicle or exhaust system had been modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:

Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

Idling the engine with the air system controI off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

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

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

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Windows Manual Windows Use the window crank Power Windows (Option)

to open and close each door window.

The driver-controlled switches for the rear windows are located on the center console. There are individual controls near each window The driver’s door also has a lock button for the passenger window(s). When you push LOCK, the passenger window(s) can’t be raised or l~owered. Push LOCK again to unlock the window(s).

With power windows, switches on the driver’s door control each of the front side windows when the ignition is on.

Horn To sound the horn, press one of the horn symbols on your steering wheel. ?ttm Signal/Multifunction Lever

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

An &ow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change. To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your:

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer and Passing Signal Lighting Operation

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As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the mows don’t flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs.

Lamps Control

Turn the outside part of the lever to control the lamps. There are three positions for the lamp switch. OFF: All lamps are off. -300: : The parking lamps, taillamps, license plate lamp and the instrument panel lights come on. The headlamps are off. -:g- : The headlamps and all other operating lamps come on.