1998 Chevrolet Venture Owners Manual

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@b NOTES

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0 Section 5 Problems on the Road

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

5-2 5-2 5-3 5-8 5-13 5-24

Hazard Warning Flashers Other Warning Devices Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating If a Tire Goes Flat

5 -24 5-24 5-34 5-35

Air Inflator (Option) Changing a Flat Tire Compact Spare Tire If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

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Hazard Warning Flashers

Your hazard warning flashers button is on top of the steering column. Press the button in to turn on your flashers.

it will

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

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.

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Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please use the following steps listed to do it safely. On vehicles equipped with the optional power sliding door, a low voltage battery or replacing a battery may cause the system to become inoperative. See “Power Sliding Door” in the Index for more information.

Batteries can h t 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.

NOTICE:

Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it won’t work, and it could damage your vehicle.

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

battery with a negative ground system.

NOTICE:

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

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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 vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.

I NOTICE:

To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P).

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug

unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter or the accessory power outlet. 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 radio!

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 \ 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.

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Your vehicle has a remote positive (+)jump starting terminal. The terminal is under a tethered cap at the front of the underhood fuse and relay center. Pull up the cap to access the remote positive (+) terminal.

You should always use the remote positive (+) terminal instead of the positive (+) terminal on your battery.

Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the ACDelco 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.

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A CAUTION:

Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.

7. Now connect the

black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) terminal.

5. 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. 6. 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.

... ,

Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (-) cable doesn 1 go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.

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11. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent

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

8. 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.

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

the engine for a while.

10. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B . Good Battery C. Dead Battery

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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 J-hooks. Use T-hooks instead.

Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your vehicle. They can provide the right equipment and know how to tow it without damage. 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 things can be damaged during towing. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers. When you call, tell the towing service: 0 That your vehicle has front-wheel drive.

That your vehicle cannot be towed from the front or rear with sling-type equipment.

0 The make, model and year of your vehicle. Wether you can still move the shift lever.

0 If there was an accident, what was damaged.

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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. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots. Never use J-hooks. They will damage drivetrain and suspension components.

NOTICE:

~~

If you are using car-carrier equipment, you must pull the Electronic Level Control (ELC) fuse, in the instrument panel fuse block, before securing the vehicle. Damage to the shocks or leveling system may occur if the Electronic Level Control (ELC) fuse is not disabled.

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key in OFF. 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. For front towing, the transaxle should be in PARK (P) and the parking brake released. For rear towing, the transaxle should be in NEUTRAL (N) and the parking brake engaged.

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I NOTICE:

Your vehicle has front-wheel drive; do not have it towed with the front wheels in contact with the ground or vehicle damage may occur. A dolly must be used under the front wheels when towing from the rear or the vehicle must be transported on a flat bed carrier.

I NOTICE:

Do not have your vehicle towed with the front wheels in contact with the ground. This will damage the transaxle. If the vehicle must be towed on the front wheels, it cannot be towed more than a total of 500 miles (800 km) for the lifetime of the vehicle.

Front Towing Tow Limits -- 55 mph (90 km/h), 500 miles (800 km)

Attach T-hook chains in the front of the wheels into the slots of the front shipping brackets on the frame (both sides). Insert the hook from the inward side of the slot, not the outward side.

I NOTICE:

When attaching T-hooks to the shipping slots in the frame rail, attach them to the of the frame to avoid damage to the frame or front fascia.

inside

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NOTICE:

Do not tow with sling-type equipment or the front bumper system will be damaged. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps. Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle to ground or vehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, install a towing dolly and raise the vehicle until adequate clearance is obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment.

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Rear Towing A towing dolly must be used under the front wheels when towing from the reay:

NOTICE:

Do not tow with sling-type equipment or the rear bumper system will be damaged. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps. Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle to ground or vehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, install a towing dolly and raise the vehicle until adequate clearance is obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment.

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NOTICE:

After driving in the overheated engine protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage, allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair. The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant loss and change the “Engine Oil, When to Change” in the Index.

oil. See

Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage on your vehicle’s instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” in the Index. You also have a low coolant level light on your instrument panel. See “Low Coolant Light’’ in the Index. Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode Should an overheated engine condition exist, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of three cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode, you will notice a significant loss in power and engine performance. The low coolant light may come on and the temperature gage will indicate an overheat condition exists. This emergency operating mode allows your vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an emergency. Towing a trailer in the overheat protection mode should be avoided.

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If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine

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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 you open the hood. is If you keep driving when your engine fire. You or overheated, the liquids in it can catch 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 coolarmt, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index.

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: 0 Climb a long hill on a hot day. 0 Stop after high-speed driving. 0 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. Turn off your air conditioner. 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 (D) or THIRD (3).

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, turn ofthe engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” listed previously in this section. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.

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When you decide it’s safe to lift rou’ll see:

the hood, here’s what

A CAUTION:

An electric engine cooling 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.

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

i. Radiator Pressure Cap 3. Electric Engine Fans 3. Coolant Recovery Tank

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The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark. 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.

A CAUTION:

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.

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A CAUTION:

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 mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, 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 mixture of clean water and DEX-COOL@ coolant.

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 cooling fans are running. If the engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they aren’t, your vehicle needs service. How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL’ engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information.)

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I NOTICE:

I ,A CAU I ION:

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

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 COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.

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A CAUTION:

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and

pressure cap -- even a little -- they can come out

if you turn the radiator

at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and the radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

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How to Add Coolant to the Radiator

i i

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

down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the

cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly 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.

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L

3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mixture.)

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

5. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

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I

6. 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.

7. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL

COLD mark.

8. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank.

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f i i y .

If air goes

If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that off the pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel 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. Air Inflator (Option) Your vehicle may have an air inflator used to bring tires up to the proper pressure. See “Accessory Inflator System” in the Index for more details.

i-24

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.

’ A CAUTION:

- 1

--

injury. The vehicle

Changing a tire can cause an can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:

1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. I’urn 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.

 le and Tools

The equipment you’ll need is in the storage compartment at the rear of the vehicle, on the passenger’s side.

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

Remove the side convenience nets. Open the jack storage compartment by lifting up the tab and pulling the cover off.

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EXTENSION (CHISEL END)

RETAINER

JACK & TOOL STORAGE

INSTRUCTIONS

SPARE TIRE IS STORED UNDER REAR COMPARTMENT FLOOR (VALVE STEM DOWN)

Remove the jack and jacking tools by loosening the wing nut and bracket. Separate the plastic pouch from the jack and remove the jacking tools (folding wrench and shaft) from the pouch.

The compact spare tire is located under the vehicle, ahead of the rear bumper. Insert the narrow end of the shaft into the hole above the rear bumper. Then attach the folding wrench to the shaft. Rotate the folding wrench to the left to lower the compact spare tire until it can be pulled from under the vehicle.

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€3

The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A), shaft (B) and folding wrench (C).

Slide the cable retainer through the center of the spare, then place the compact spare tire near the flat tire.

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P J

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire

If your vehicle has aluminum wheels, use the handle of the folding wrench to pry the large center cap off.

Then with the other end of the wrench, loosen the nuts. 2. If your vehicle has the plastic “bolt-on” wheel

covers, you cannot separate the nylon wheel nut caps from the cover. Loosen them completely using the folding wrench, and remove the wheel cover. If the wheel nut caps have been completely loosened, the wheel cover will come off easily.

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3. Loosen the wheel nuts -- but do not remove them -- using the folding wrench. (Turn the handle about 180 degrees, then flip the handle back to the starting position. This avoids taking the wrench off the lug nut for each turn.)

(10 CM.)

6 IN

(15 CM.)

4. Near each wheel,

there is a notch in the vehicle’s body. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch in the vehicle’s frame nearest the flat tire.

I NOTICE:

Do not place the jack under the rear axle control arms. Only use the areas shown for proper jack location.

Do not raise the vehicle yet. Put the compact spare tire near you.

1

5 -

Attach the folding wrench to the jack, and rotate the wrench to the right to raise the jack head a few inches.

6. Raise the vehicle by rotating the folding wrench to

the right in the jack. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

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

A CAUT'ON:

Getting under a veh le 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.

' A P UTI

Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.

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8. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.

A CAUTION:

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.

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' A 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.

~~

9. Install the spare tire and 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.

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10. Lower the vehicle by attaching the folding wheel wrench to the jack and rotating the wrench to the left. Lower the jack completely.

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

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 100 lb-ft (140 Nom).

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.

Don’t try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare tire. It won’t fit. Store the wheel cover securely in the rear of the vehicle until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.

I NOTICE:

Wheel covers won’t fit on your compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare.

Storing a Flat or 5 a r e Tire and Tools

A CAUTION:

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.

Lay the tire near the rear of the vehicle with the valve stem down. Slide the cable retainer through the center of the wheel and start to raise the tire. When the tire is almost in the stored position, turn the tire so the valve is towards the rear of the vehicle. This will help when you check and maintain tire pressure in the spare. Keep raising the wheel until you hear the hoist mechanism click twice. This means the wheel is firmly stored against the underside of the vehicle. Push against the wheel to be sure it does not move and is stored securely.

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Unless you have the plastic “bolt-on” wheel covers, be sure to also store the center cap. When you replace the compact spare with a full-size tire, replace the bolt-on wheel covers and the center cap. Tighten them “hand tight” over the wheel nuts, using the folding wrench. Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 P a ) . After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare is made to perform well at speeds up to 65 mph (105 km/h) for distances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you can finish your trip and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again.

.BAG & TOOLS

NOTE: INSTALL OF BAG

, BOlTOM

TOOL STORAGE

Replace all jacking tools as they were stored in the jack storage compartment and replace the compartment cover. To replace the cover, line up the tabs on the right of the cover with the slots in the cover opening. Push the cover in place and push down the groove. This secures the cover in place.

the tab so that it rests in

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NOTICE:

When the compact spare is installed, don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other parts of your vehicle.

Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles. And don’t mix your compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your spare tire and its wheel together.

NOTICE:

Tire chains won’t fit your compact spare. Using them can damage your vehicle and can damage the chains too. Don’t use tire chains on your compact spare.

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.

If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transaxle 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.

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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 transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle.

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

Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. If your vehicle has traction control, you should turn your traction control system off. (See “Traction Control System” in the Index.) Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transaxle is in gear. If that doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Vehicle’’ in the Index.

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@% NOTES

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b% NOTES

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Section 6 Service and Appearance Care

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

Service Fuel

6-2 6-3 6-7 Filling a Portable Fuel Container 6- 8 6-11 Engine Oil 6-15 6-16

Checking Things Under the Hood

Air Cleaner Passenger Compartment Air Filter Replacement Automatic Transaxle Fluid Engine Coolant Radiator Pressure Cap Windshield Washer Fluid Brakes Battery Bulb Replacement Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

6- 18 6-2 1 6-24 6-25 6-26 6-30 6-3 1 6-39

6-40 6-48 6-48 6-52 6-54 6-54 6-55 6-56 6-57 6-64 6-65 6-65 6-66 6-66 6-66

Tires Appearance Care Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle Underbody Maintenance Chemical Paint Spotting Appearance Care Materials Chart Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Electrical System Replacement Bulbs Capacities and Specifications Engine Specifications Vehicle Dimensions Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Conditioning Refrigerants

Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:

Genuine

Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to use the proper Chevrolet Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle 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 Vehicle” 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.

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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 Canada. Improved gasoline specifications have been developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) for better vehicle performance and engine protection. Gasolines meeting 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 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.

:le could be

You can be injured and your ve damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners, “English” and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.

Adding Equipment to the - hide of

Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicIe can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle.

To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States 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.

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.

If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood emission control 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 Chevrolet 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. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not his fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not recommend the use of such gasolines. If fuels containing MMT are used, spark plug life may be reduced and your emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized Chevrolet dealer for service.

6-4

Filling Your Tank When the fuel door is opened on a vehicle with dual sliding doors, the driver’s side sliding door will only open partway.

Fuels in Foreign Countries If 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 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

While refueling, hang the cap by the tether from the hook on the filler door hinge or let the tether as shown. To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has a spring go of the cap too sc

in it; if you let I, it will spring back to the right.

cap hang by the

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 I , Outside of Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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.

6-6

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. 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’’ *

L 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 properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and your fuel tank and emissions system may be damaged. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.

Fillinq a Portable Fuel Container

Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others:

Dispense gasoline only into approved containers. Do not fill a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed or on any surface other than the ground. Bring the fill nozzle in contact with the inside of the fill opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the filling is complete. Don’t smoke while pumping gasoline.

6-7

Hood Release

To open the hood, first pull the hood release handle inside the vehicle.

Checking Things Under the Hood I A CAUTION:

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.

A CAUTION:

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.

6-8

: . ... , .., . ,

Pull forward on the hood prop to release it from its storage clip. Then put the end of the hood prop into the slot in the underside of the hood.

Then go to the front of the vehicle and push up on the underhood release. Lift the hood. The hood prop may be hot due to increased engine temperatures under the hood, so be careful when handling it. Use your hood prop sleeve when handling the hood prop.

6-9

When you lift the hood, you'll see these items: rn

A. Underhood Fuse and

Relay Center

B. Remote Positive (+) Terminal C. Windshield Washer

Fluid Reservoir

6-10

Cap

Pressure

D. Radiator E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E Engine Oil Fill Location G. Engine Oil Dipstick

Dipstick

H. Transaxle Fluid I. Brake Master Cylinder J. Air Cleaner K. Engine Coolant Reservoir

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Then just let the hood down and close it firmly. Underhood Lamp (If Equipped) Your underhood lamp will go on when you open the hood. Engine Oil

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

hhhhhh

LWEL

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

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.

The engine oil dipstick is located at the front of the engine compartment, near the center. The dipstick handle has a bright, yellow loop design for easy identification. Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.

6-11

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

When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of 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.

6-12

NOTICE:

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

The engine oil fill cap is located just behind the engine oil dipstick.

Be sure to 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.

RECOMMENDED SAE YlSCOSlTT GRADE ENGINE OILS

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

What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by loolung 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 engines.

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

HOT

WEATHER

COLD

WEATHER

SA€

1OW-30

I -

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

6-13

As shown in the chart, S A E 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use S A E 1OW-30 if it's going to be 0" F (- 18 " C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as S A E 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. If you are in an area where the temperature falls below -20°F (-29"C), consider using either an S A E 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE OW-30 oil. Both will provide easier cold starting and better protection at extremely low temperatures.

for your engine

Engine Oil Additives Don't add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil If any one of these is true for you, use the short tripkity maintenance schedule:

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). Most trips are through dusty areas. 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 fust .

6-14

Air Cleaner

If none of them is true, use the long triphighway maintenance schedule. Change the oil and filter every 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months -- whichever occurs first. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed break down slower. . engine under highway conditions causes engine oil to 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 under the 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.

The air cleaner is located at the front of the engine compartment (on the driver’s side of the vehicle),

engine coolant reservoir.

6-15

Checking or Replacing the Air Cleaner 1. Unlatch the two hooks on top of the air

cleaner housing.

2. Turn back the air inlet panel and rest it on top of the housing. The air intake tube is designed to flex back; you do not need to disconnect it.

3. After replacing the air cleaner filter, seat the tabs on

the bottom of the panel into the slots at the bottom. 4. Latch the hooks to secure the panel in place. If the panel moves easily, check that the tabs are seated correctly in the slots.

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.

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.

Passenger Compartment Air Filter Replacement Passenger compartment air, both outside and recirculated air, is routed through a passenger compartment filter, which is part of a two-piece filter system. The filter removes certain contaminants from the air, including pollen and dust particles. Reductions in airflow, which may occur more quickly in dusty areas, indicate that the filter needs For how often to change the air filter, see “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index. The access panel for the air filter is in the back of the glove box.

to be replaced early.

1. Pull the tab up and out on the outer access panel.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Then squeeze the tab on the left of the inner access panel. The first air filter will pull straight out. To remove the second, reach in and slide it toward the opening. Pull the second filter out. Replace the filters by reversing Step 3. Make sure the filters are inserted so that the sealing foam is angled in the same direction on both filters. For the type of filter to use, see “Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts” in the Index. Close the inner access door, while saueezing the tab, to be sure it is tightly closed. Snap the outer access panel into the back of the glove box.

6-17

Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle 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:

In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32 O 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.

How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Chevrolet 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 transaxle. 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 get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid.

to

6-18

Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.

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

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

When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). 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), you may have to drive longer.

Checking the Fluid Level

Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. 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).

1. The dipstick is located toward the back of the engine

compartment, next to the brake master cylinder. The dipstick handle has a bright, red loop design for easy identification. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.

2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and

then pull it back out again.

6-19

If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the

dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Don’t ove$ZZ.

I NOTICE:

3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the

lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area.

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

dipstick back in all the way.

How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-111, because fluid with that label is made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON-I11 is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.

3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as

described under “How to Check.”

4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the

dipstick back in all the way.

6-20

J

Engine Coolant The cooling s stem in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km) whichever occurs first, if you add only DEX-COOLd extended life 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 DEX-COOL@ coolant will: 0 Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C).

Give boiling protection up to 265 O F ( 129 O C). Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. 0 Let the warning lights and gages work as

they should.

NOTICE:

When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX-COOL@ (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the

engine coolant will require change sooner -- at

30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage caused by the use of coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.

6-21

What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL@ coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.

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 mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, 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 mixture of clean water and DEX-COOL@ coolant.

NOTICE:

If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture 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:

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.

6-22

Checking Coolant The engine coolant reservoir is located on the driver’s side of the vehicle, above the air cleaner.

it

on,

When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at FULL COLD, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be above the FULL COLD mark, or a little higher.

comes

light

If this means you’re low on engine coolant.

Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank.

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

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

6-23

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.

Radiator I

ressure Cap

NOTICE:

Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler neck.

When you replace your radiator pressure cap, a GM cap is recommended.

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

'l'kv Gower steering fluid reservoir is located to the right of the windshield washer fluid reservoir, at the back of the engine compartment.

When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or loss in this system you hear an unusual noise. A fluid could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. How To Check Power Steering Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the H mark. When it’s cold, the level should be at the C mark. If the fluid is at the ADD mark, you should add fluid. What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.

Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid

on the passenger’s side of the vehicle, near the fuse and relay center.

Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full.

6-25

Brakes Brake Fluid

Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here. It is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid.

When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your washer fluid tank only three-quarters full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion if freezing occurs. which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don’t use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.

6-26

There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

I A CAUTAN:

it can spill

If you have too much brake fluid, on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

BRAKE

United States

Canadian

When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake warning light will come on. See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

6-27

What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 (GM Part No. 12377967). Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.

With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.

NOTICE:

Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.

6-28

Brake Wear Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake

pedal firmly). A CAUTION:

The brake wear warning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.

NOTICE:

Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.

Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly torque wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications. Your rear drum brakes don’t have wear indicators, but if you ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rear brake linings inspected immediately. Also, the rear brake drums should be removed and inspected each time the tires are removed for rotation or changing. When you have the front brake pads replaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. See “Brake System Inspection” in Section 7 of this manual under Part C “Periodic Maintenance Inspections.”

6-29

Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear. Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good bralung. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system -- for example, when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new ones put in -- be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change -- for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts.

6-30

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

1 Ihl CAUTIO

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

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

Also, for your audio system, see “Theft-Deterrent Feature” in the Index. Jump Starting For jump starting instructions, see “Jump Starting” in the Index. Bulb Replacement Halogen Bulbs

Headlamps

NOTICE:

When replacing the headlamp bulb, do not leave the bulb out for any length of time. This could cause nitrogen gas to escape from the lamp. To minimize nitrogen gas from escaping within the headlamp, the headlamp must be placed on a flat surface with the lens facing down when removing the bulb.

Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package.

1. Open the hood. 2. Remove the front parking/turn signal lamp assembly.

See “Front Parkingmum Signal Lamps” later in this section.

6-31

I

3. Remove the two wing nuts located on top of the

headlamp assembly.

5. Pull the bulb assembly straight up from the

lamp housing.

4. Unscrew the black retainer ring that holds the bulb

assembly in place.

6. Unhook the electrical connector by lifting up the

blue tabs and pulling the bulb out.

6-32

7. Replace the new bulb through the black retainer ring

and into the electrical connector. Push the bulb firmly enough so that the blue tabs hook over the tab on the bulb.

8. Carefully put the bulb assembly back into the lamp

housing and tighten the black retainer ring in place. Be careful not to damage the bulb on the headlamp aiming bar.

6-33

Front P a r k i n e r n Signal Lamps 1. Open the hood.

2. Remove the thumb screw attaching the parking/turn

signal lamp assembly to the headlamp assembly. 3. Pull the parkinghrn signal lamp assembly away

from the body.

4. Unscrew the bulb socket from the lamp assembly by

pressing the tab while turning it to the left.

9. Align the pins on the bottom of the headlamp

assembly with the holes in the lamp support bracket while placing the holes in the assembly over the bolts where the wing nuts attach. 10. Replace and tighten the wing nuts. 11. Replace the parkinglturn signal lamp assembly by

lining up the tabs at the back of the assembly with the holes in the fender.

12. Tighten the bolt connecting the parkinghurn

signal lamp assembly. Be sure the tab from the parking/turn signal lamp assembly is inboard of the tab from the headlamp assembly.

6-34

5. Replace the bulb by pulling the old one out and gently pushing the new one into the lamp socket.

6. Line up the tabs on the sockets with the gaps in the socket holes and screw the bulb socket back into the lamp housing until an audible click is heard (the tab popping back out).

7.

8.

9.

To replace the lamp assembly, line up and insert the tabs on the back of the assembly with the slots in the fender. Engage the lower clip on the front of the lamp assembly, keeping the upper tab on the parking/turn signal lamp assembly inboard of the headlamp bracket tab. To align the parking/turn signal lamp assembly with the headlamp assembly, lift up the parking/turn signal lamp assembly until the upper edge is contacting the fender. Fasten the parking/tum signal lamp assembly to the headlamp assembly with the thumb screw removed -_ in Step 1. 6-35

Front Sidemarker 1. Open the hood.

5. Replace the bulb by pulling the old one out and