1996 Chevrolet Tracker Owners Manual

The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted.

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0

Here are some things you can check before a trip: Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the recommended pressure? Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook along your route?’Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?

Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are. Before Leaving on a Long Trip Make sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested. If you must start when you’re not fresh -- such as after a day’s work -- don’t plan to make too many miles that first part of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily drive in. Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Geo dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it.

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Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “hghway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don’t let it happen to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the road than a second, and you could crash and be injured. What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be aware that it can happen. Then here are some tips:

in less

Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a comfortably cool interior. Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your mirrors and your instruments frequently. If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.

Hill and Mountain Roads

Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain.

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If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some your trips safer and more enjoyable. (See “Off-Road Driving’’ in the Index for information about driving off-road.)

tips that can make

Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.

If you don’t shift down, your brakes could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.

4-3s

l Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hin. You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

0 Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down

to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the hill better. Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane roads in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane. As you go over the top of a hill, be alert. There could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident.

e You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examples are long grades, passing or no-passing zones, a falling rocks area or winding roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action.

Winter Driving

Here are some tips for winter driving:

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Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful.

What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about freezing (32 O F ; 0 ’ C ) and freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there. Whatever, the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowing or loose snow -- drive with caution. Accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more. Unless you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to brake very gently, too. (If you do have anti-lock, see “Anti-Lack” in the Index. This system improves your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road.) Whether you have the anti-lock braking system or not, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. Without anti-lock brakes, if you feel your vehicle begin to slide, let up on the brakes a little. Push the brake pedal down steadily to get the most traction you can.

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If You’re Caught in a Blizzard

Remember, unless you have anti-lock, if you brake so hard that your wheels stop rolling, you’ll just slide. Brake so your wheels always keep rolling and you can still steer. 0 Whatever your braking system, allow greater

following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around clumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.

If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: 0 Turn on your hazard flashers.

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Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.

Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle , especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn’t collect there. Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that’s away from the wind. This will help keep CO out.

You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

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Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on with your headlamps. Let the heater run for awhile. Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes. Recreational Vehicle 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 Vehicle 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.

NOTICE:

Do not tow your Geo with the rear wheels in contact with the ground, or the transmission could be damaged.

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2. 3.

4.

5,

Set the parking brake. If your Geo is a four-wheel-drive vehicle, set your manual free-wheeling hubs to FliEE or unlock your automatic freewheeling hubs. See “Four-wheel Drive” in the Index. Turn the ignition key to ACC to unlock the steering wheel. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing. Release the parking brake.

NOTICE:

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

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Towing Your Ve- ‘cle from the Front

NOTICE:

If your vehicle has automatic freewheeling hubs or two-wheel drive, do not tow it on all four wheels. If you do, your transmission could be damaged.

3.

4. 5.

If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle with manual freewheeling hubs, it can be towed from the front with all four wheels on the ground. Follow these steps: 1. 2.

Set the parking brake. Turn the ignition key to ACC to unlock the steering wheel. Shift your automatic transmission into PARK (P), or your manual transmission into SECOND (2). Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL (N). Set the hubs to FREE. See “Four-wheel Drive” in the Index. Release the parking brake.

6. Stop towing every 200 miles (300 km) and start the engine. Leave the transfer case shift lever in NEUTRAL (N). Shift your automatic transmission to DRIVE (D); leave a manual transmission in SECOND (2) with the clutch engaged. 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.

NOTICE:

The front wheels transmit shocks during towing. The steering column may not be strong enough to withstand the shocks. Always unlock the steering wheel before towing.

I NOTICE:

Make sure that the towing speed does not exceed 50 mph (80 k d h ) , or your Geo could be badly damaged.

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Loading Your Vehicle

TIRE PLACARD I GWR

IGWR FRTI GAWR RR I

~~

LBIKg TIRES RIMS INFLATION PRESSURE COLD PSl/kPa

MFD BY CAM1 AUTOMOTIVE DATE

GVWR

GAWR FRT

CANADA GAWR RR

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

The other label is the Certification label, also found on the driver's door lock pillar. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes th'e weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. Don't carry more than 400 lbs. (1 8 1 kg) in your rear area when four people are in your two-wheel-drive vehicle. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, don't carry more than 200 lbs. (91 kg) in your rear area when four people are in your vehicle.

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A CAUTION:

Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts an your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

NOTICE:

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

~~

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

A CAUTION:

nside your vehicle can strike

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

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

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

0 Don’t leave an unsecured child restraint in

your vehicle. When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. Don’t leave a seat folded down unless you need to.

There’s also important loading information for off-road driving in this manual. See “Loading Your VehicIe” in the Index.

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Your vehicle can tow a trailer. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this section. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety d e s . Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer. Load-pulhg components such as the engine, transmission, wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harder against the drag of the added’weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads, generating extra heat. What’s more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements.

Towing a Trailer

A CAUTION:

If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose controlwhen you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the

brakes may not work well -- or even at all. You

and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your Geo dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.

NOTICE:

Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this part, and see your Geo dealer for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.

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If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points:

There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, 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. If you have an automatic transmission, you should use DRIVE (D) (or, as you need to, a lower gear) when towing a trailer. Operating your vehicle in DRIVE (D) when towing a trailer will minimize heat buildup and extend the life of your transmission. If you have a manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it’s better not to use FIFTH (5) gear. Just drive in FOURTH (4) gear (or, as you need to, a lower gear).

Three important considerations have to do with weight: the weight of the trailer, the weight of the trailer tongue and the weight on your vehicle’s tires. Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,000 lbs. (450 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 you can write us at:

Customer Assistance Department Chevrolet/Geo P.O. Box 7047 Troy, MI 48007-7047

In Canada, write to:

General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Cente 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario LlH 8P7

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Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or 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.

If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent 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 lock pillar or see “Tire Loading” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.

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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:

If you use a step-bumper hitch, your bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure you have ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and 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 and do not attach them to the bumper. 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 lbs. (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 q d 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 systems won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.

0 Will the trailer brake parts take 3,000 psi

(20 650 E a ) of pressure? If not, the trailer brake system must not be used with your vehicle.

0 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.

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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 as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, 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 lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.

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.

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Making Turns

NOTICE:

Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.

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 extra wiring (included in the optional trailering package). The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop.

When towing a trailer, the green arrow’s on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may thlnk drrvers behind you are seeing your signal when 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. If you are towing a trailer and you have a manual transmission with FIFTH (5) gear, you may prefer not to use FIFTH (5). Just drive in FOURTH (4) (or, as you need to, a lower gear).

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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).

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 trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply ybur regular brakes, but don’t shift into

PARK (P) 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 mtil the chocks absorb the load.

4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your parking brake, and then shift to PARK (PI, or REVERSE (R) 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 NEUTRAL (N).

6. Release the regular brakes.

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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

0 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 these is covered in this manual, and the 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.

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NOTES

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Gem Section 5 Problems on the Road

Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers

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

Press the button on top of the steering column to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.

Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. To turn off the flashers, push the button again. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work.

5-1

I NOTICE:

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.

1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt

battery with a negative ground system.

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

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: 0 They contain acid that can burn you. 0 They contain gas that can explode or ignite. 0 They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

5-2

I NOTICE:

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 damage the electrical systems.

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug

unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter. Turn off all lamps that aren’t needed as well as radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. In addition, it could save your ra.dio!

I NOTICE:

~~

If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the

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

I A CAUTION:

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.

5-3

5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or

missing insulatiofi. If they do, you could get a shock.

The vehicles could be damaged, too. 13 Fan or other moving engine parts can injure you

badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engines are running.

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.

6. Positive (+) goes to positive (+) and negative (-) goes to negative (-) or a metal engine part. Don’t connect positive (+) to negative (-) or you’ll get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts, too. 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.

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.

5-5

12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent

electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal.

9. 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. 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. 10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run

the engine for a while.

11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t

start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

5-6

A. Heavy Metal Engine Part €3. Good Battery C . Dead Battery

a CAUTION:

To help avoid injury to you or others:

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. 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.

Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a Chevrolet/Geo dealer or a professional towing service tow your Geo. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index. 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 may not be correct. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers. When you call, tell the towing service:

That your vehicle has rear-wheel 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 lever for’the transmission and transfer case, if you have one.

0 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.

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When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key turned to the OFF position. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead 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 (N) and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the drive wheels unless you must. If the vehicle &ust be towed on the drive wheels, be sure to follow any speed and distance restrictions later in this section, or your transmission will be damaged. If these limitations must be exceeded, then the drive wheels have to be supported on a dolly.

U‘l’lOR’

A vehicle can fall from a car carrier if it isn’t adequately secured. 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.

5-8

A towing dolly must be used under the drive wheels when towing from the fvont.

Attach J-hook chains on both sides to the rear of lower control arms inboard of the spring.

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

- 5-9

A towing dolly must be used under the front wheels when towing from the reur.

Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each lower control arm. Rear Towing 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, freewheeling hubs to FREE or unlock your automatic freewheeling 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 kmh). 5-10

Attach J-hooks around the axle tube.

I NOTICE:

Take care not to damage the brake pipes on the axle tubes.

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

Attach a separate safety chain around the end of each axle, inboard of the spring.

z 1 1

Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage on your Geo instrument panel. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine

5-12

Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam 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.

I NOTICE:

If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty.

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can dnve. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can dnve 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.

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. 0 Stop after high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic.

0 Tow a trailer. 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 NEUTRAL (N);

otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving -- AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE @ or DRIVE (D) for automatic transmissions.

5-13

When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see:

A CAUTION:

An electric fan under the hood 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. Don’t reach through the grille to release the underhood lever.

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.

A. Radiator Pressure Cap B. Electric Engine Fan C. Coolant Recovery Tank

5-14

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, 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.

I NOTICE:

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

If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, 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.

5-15

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 the FULL mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and a proper antifi-eeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mix.)

NOTICE:

In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mix.

Adding only plain water to 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 couId 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.

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

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the FULL mark 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.

5-17

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can 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 if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

5-18

How to Add Coolant to the Rac

2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push

down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

’ . 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 counterclockwise 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.

5-19

3. Fill the radiator with the proper mix, up to the base

of the filler neck.

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.

5-20 -

6. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fan.

7. 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.

8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.

5-21

If a Tire Goes Plat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especiaIIy if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak put 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, and 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 a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use your jacking equipment to change a flat tire safely. Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. 5-22

I ’ A CAUTION:

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 an automatic transmission shift

lever in PARK (P) or shift a manual transmission to FIRST (1) or REVERSE (R).

3. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle,

be sure the transfer case is in a drive

gear -- not in NEUTRAL (N).

4. Turn off the engine.

To be even more certain the vehicle won’t move, you can put blocks 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.

~~

RemovinL

re Tire and 7

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

The jack and wheel wrench are under the front passenger’s seat.

5-23

The jack handle is under the driver’s seat.

The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A), jack handle (B) and wheel wrench (C). Attach the jack handle to the jack. Turn the jack handle to the right to raise the lift head.

5-24

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

Insert your key into the wheel lock on the spare tire and pull the wheel lock off.

5-25

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. Turn the jack handle clockwise. That will raise the lift head a little.

. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts.

Don’t remove them yet.

5-26

4.7l' (1 20 mm)

CAUTION:

Getting under a vehicle.when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the 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.

1 NOTICE: 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.

2. Position the jack and raise the jack lift head until it

fits firmly onto the bosses nearest the flat tire. (Under the vehicle near each wheel, there are bosses in the vehicle's rocker flange.)

5-27

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

3. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spxe tire to fit.

5. Remove any rust or dirt

from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.

5-28

A CAUTIQN:

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.

k!, CAUTION:

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

6. 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.

5-29

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

7. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.

5-30

A CAUTION:

Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come 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 new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 60 lb-ft (80 N-m).

NOTICE:

Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification.

Storing a

- lat or Spare Tire and Tools

Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

Store your vehicle’s flat tire or spare by mounting it on the tailgate and cover.

5-31

Replace the jack, jack handle and wheel wrench. 1. Front Passenger’s Seat 2. Jack 3. Clamp 4. Wrench 5. Jack Handle 6. Driver’s Seat

5-32

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 too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.

A CAUTION:

, p j , . . .. !& ;..z - ’ I ,-I

let your tires spin at high speed, they can

explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transmission or 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.

I NOTICE:

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

For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see “Tire Chains” in the Index.

5-33

Using the Recovery Hooks

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 REVERSE (R) and a forward gear (or with a manual transmission, b’etween FIRST (1) or SECOND (2) and REVERSE(R)), 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 your vehicle has them. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

Your vehicle 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.

5-34

A CAUTION:

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.

NOTICE:

Never use the recovery hooks to tow the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged and it would not be covered by warranty.

5-35

NOTES

5-36

GEtB Section 6 Service and Appearance Care

Here you will find information about the care of your Geo. ?ibis section begins with service and fuel mformation, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care. 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 supporte,d service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:

ll

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 Geo than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see “Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Geo” 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.

6-1

A CAUTION:

~~

You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, and the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.

0 Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English,’ and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.

Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. At a minimum, it should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93 in cana$a Improved gasoline specifications have been developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasolines meting the AAMA specification could provide improved driveability and emission control system protection compared to other gasolines. 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.

6-2

If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood tune-up label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on and/or your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized Geo dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such fuels, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, return to your authorized Chevrolet/Geo dealer for service.

To provide cleaner air, all gasolines are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In addition, gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area to help clean the air. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines if they comply with the specifications described earlier.

1 NOTICE:

Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty.

6-3

Filling Your Tank

Fuels in Foreign Countries pf you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel 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 Overseas Distribution Corporation, North American Export Sales (NAES) 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, 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.

6-4

The cap is behind a hinged door on the passenger’s side of your vehicle. On four-door models, use the key to the vehicle to unlock the fuel door. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise).

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until you hear at least three clicks. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.

NOTICE:

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 might be damaged.

If you get gasoline on yourself 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.

Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Geo” in the Index.

, 6-5

Checking Things Under the Hood A CAUTICV:

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.

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.

6-6

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

I

Then go to the front of the vehicle, pull up 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.

When you open the hood, you’ll see the following:

A. Windshield Washer Reservoir B. Engine Coolant Reservoir C. Main Fuse Box D. Battery E. Engine Oil Dipstick 6-8

E Automatic Transmission Dipstick (if equipped) G. Oil Fill Cap H. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir I. Brake Fluid Reservoir J. Air Cleaner

It’s a good idea to check your engine oil 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 drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.

to

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 let the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil

If the engine oil pressure light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.

For more information, see “Engine Oil Pressure Light” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder.

6-9

Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or iApBrh, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.

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

NOTICE:

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.

What Kind of Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this Starburst symbol.

If you change your own oil, be sure you use oil that has the Starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. If you have your oil changed for you, be sure the oil put into your engine is American Petroleum Institute certified for gasoline e n ~ e s .

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS

FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE.

--I

LOOK

FOR MIS SYMBOL

HOT

WEATHER

’m)

+loo- - +38 +EO- - +27

+60- - +16 +40- - + 4

+ 2 0 - - - 7

0 - - - 1 8

I-

SAE 1OW-30

You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the following chart:

SAE 5W-30 PREFERRED

caul WEATHER

DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED

6-11

As shown in the chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 1OW-30 if it’s going to be 0°F (-1 8 “C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-50.

NOTICE:

Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.

GM Goodwrench@ 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.

6-12

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

Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). You operate your vehicle in dusty areas or off-road frequently. You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of your vehicle. The vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi or other commercial application.

Driving under these conditions causes engine oil to break down sooner. If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or 3 months -- whichever occurs first. If none of them is true, change oil and filter every 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 7.5 months -- whichever occurs first. Driving a vehicle with a fully warned engine under highway conditions causes engine oil to break down slower.

What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? 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. (See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.) 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 oil by putting it in the trash, 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.

Air Cleaner

Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter and the crankcase ventilation filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

6-13

Air Filter Replacement To check or replace the filter:

1.

2.

Remove the screws on the cover. Lift the cover up.

Operating the engine with the 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.

I NOTICE:

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.

6-14

3. Pull out the filter.

Automatic Transmission Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: 0 In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature

regularly reaches 90°F (32” C ) or higher. In hilly or mountainous terrain. When doing frequent trailer towing. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.

If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

6-15

How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have t,his done at your 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.

NOTICE:

Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid.

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.

6-16

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).

Checking 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 DRIVE (D) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes. Then follow the hot check procedures. Checking 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. Should the fluid level be low during a cold check, you must perform a hot check before adding fluid. This will give vou a more accurate reading of the fluid level.

Checking the Fluid Hot or Cold 0 Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the

engine running.

0 With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever

in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). Let the engine run at idle for three minutes or more.

Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:

1.

2.

Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again.

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How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See “Recommended Huids and Lubricants” in the Index. Add fluid only after checking the transmission fluid HOT. (A COLD check is used only as a reference.) If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfill. We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-111, because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transmission. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON-111 is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. 0 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.

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

4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the

dipstick back in all the way.

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Manual Transmission 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 determine 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 your Geo dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading.

NOTICE:

Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be 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.

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Then, follow these steps:

How to Add Fluid Here’s how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine 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

1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the bottom of

the filler plug hole.

3. If the fluid level is good, install the plug and be sure

it is fully seated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid as described in the next steps.

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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 1 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 (1 6 mm)), 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.

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How to Check Lubricant

Four-wheel Drive Most lubricant checks in th’is 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 deternine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

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.

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How to Check Lubricant

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.

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 (1 2 mm) below the filler plug hole.

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What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what W 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. A 50/50 mixture of water and the proper coolant for your Geo will:

Give freezing protection down to -33 “F (-36°C).

0 Give boiling protection up to 258°F (125°C).

Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature, Let the warning lights and gages work as they should.

What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets GM Specification 1825-M, which won’t damage aluminum parts. You can also use a recycled coolant conforming to GM Specification 1825-M with a complete coolant flush and refill. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.

/i\ CAUTTON:

Adding only plain water to 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 the proper antifreeze.

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Checking Coolant

NOTICE:

If you use an improper coolant mix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.

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

NOTICE: r If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to

add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system. These can be harmful.

When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at LOW, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to FULL, or a little higher.

Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper mix at the coolant recovery tank.

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A

/t! CAUTION:

Radiator Pressure Cap

RI

lhrning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and, scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost