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If the vehicle did not start, the instrument cluster will display a screen with inactive fuel and battery gauges. See Starting and Stopping the Vehicle on page 9‑19.


Restarting Procedure If the vehicle must be restarted while it is still moving, move the shift lever to N (Neutral) and press the POWER O button twice without pressing the brake pedal. The propulsion system will not restart in any other position. Computers determine when the engine needs to run. The engine may start, if required, when the propulsion system is on. Some vehicle conditions that force the engine to run are: . Cold ambient temperatures.


The hood is open or not completely latched.


The high voltage battery has a low charge. The engine is needed to maintain the high voltage battery temperature. The engine needs to run for maintenance.


See Maintenance Modes on page 9‑26. A chime will sound if the driver door is opened while the vehicle is in ON/RUN. Always press the POWER O button to turn the vehicle off before exiting. Stopping Procedure For information on how to turn the vehicle off, see Power Button on page 9‑18.


A Welcome, Ready, and Good‐bye audio message will be heard in the vehicle and animated on the instrument cluster when opening the driver door upon entry, when the vehicle is ready to be driven, and when the vehicle is turned off. The instrument cluster displays an active fuel or battery gauge, along with an audio startup cue, when the vehicle is ready to be driven. This could take up to 15 seconds at extremely cold temperatures. The engine will only start if needed.


Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2011


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Retained Accessory Power (RAP) The following features will operate for up to 10 minutes or until the driver door is opened: . Audio System . Power Windows . Accessory Power Outlets


Shifting Into Park { WARNING


It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll. If you have left the propulsion system on, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow.


1. Hold the brake pedal down and


set the parking brake. See Electric Parking Brake on page 9‑32 for more information. 2. Move the shift lever into P (Park) by pushing the lever all the way toward the front of the vehicle.


3. Turn the vehicle off. Leaving the Vehicle with the Propulsion System On { WARNING


It can be dangerous to leave the vehicle with the propulsion system on. The vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the propulsion system on, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Do not leave the vehicle with the propulsion system on.


Driving and Operating


9-21


If you have to leave the vehicle with the propulsion system on, be sure the vehicle is in P (Park) and the parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you have moved the shift lever into P (Park), hold down the regular brake pedal. See if you can move the shift lever away from P (Park) without first pulling it toward you. If you can, it means that the shift lever was not fully locked into P (Park). Torque Lock Torque lock is when the weight of the vehicle puts too much force on the parking pawl in the electric drive unit. This happens when parking on a hill and shifting the electric drive unit into P (Park) is not done properly and then it is difficult to shift out of P (Park). To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into P (Park).


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Driving and Operating


If torque lock does occur, your vehicle may need to be pushed uphill by another vehicle to relieve the parking pawl pressure, so you can shift out of P (Park).


Shifting Out of Park To shift out of P (Park), the vehicle must be in ON/RUN, the brake pedal must be applied, and the charge cord must be unplugged. The vehicle has an electronic shift lock release system. The shift lock release is designed to: . Prevent the vehicle from turning


off unless the shift lever is in P (Park).


. Prevent moving the shift lever


out of P (Park), unless the vehicle is in ON/RUN, the brake pedal is applied, and the charge cord is unplugged.


The shift lock is always functional except in the case of an uncharged or low charged 12‐volt battery (less than 9 volts). If the vehicle has an uncharged 12‐volt battery or a 12‐volt battery with low voltage, try charging or jump starting the 12‐volt battery. See Jump Starting on page 10‑71. If the console shift lever cannot be moved out of P (Park): 1. Apply and maintain the regular


brakes.


2. Turn the vehicle on using the POWER O button. See Power Button on page 9‑18.


3. Let up on the shift lever and make sure the shift lever is pushed all the way into P (Park).


4. Press the shift lever button. 5. Move the shift lever into the


desired gear.


If you still cannot move the shift lever from P (Park), see your dealer or a professional towing service.


Parking Over Things That Burn


{ WARNING


Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under the vehicle and ignite. Do not park over papers, leaves, dry grass, or other things that can burn.


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Electric Vehicle Operating Modes


System Operation This vehicle is an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV). It uses an electric propulsion system to drive the vehicle at all times. Electricity is the vehicle's primary source of energy, while gasoline is the secondary source. The vehicle has two modes of operation: Electric and Extended Range. In both modes, the vehicle is propelled by its electric drive unit. It converts electrical energy into mechanical energy to drive the wheels. The vehicle's performance remains the same in either mode. See Driving for Better Energy Efficiency on page 9‑2.


Driving and Operating


9-23


Electric Mode In Electric Mode, the vehicle does not use fuel or produce tailpipe emissions. During this primary mode, the vehicle is powered by electrical energy stored in the high voltage battery. The vehicle can operate in this mode until the battery has reached a low charge. There are some conditions when the battery charge is high enough to provide Electric Mode operation, but the engine still runs. They are: . Cold ambient temperatures. . Hot or cold high voltage battery


temperatures. The hood being open or not completely closed and latched.


. Certain high voltage battery fault


conditions.


. Engine Maintenance Mode or


Fuel Maintenance Mode being run.


Extended Range Mode When the vehicle reaches the end of its electric range, it switches to Extended Range Mode (ERM). In this secondary mode, electricity is produced by the fuel‐powered engine. This secondary source of electric power extends the vehicle range. Operation will continue in ERM until the vehicle can be plugged in to recharge the high voltage battery and restore Electric Mode. The high voltage battery will continue to provide some power and work together with the engine to provide peak performance when it is required, such as driving up a steep incline or for high acceleration maneuvers. The battery will not be charged nor will electric vehicle range be restored by the engine.


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Driving and Operating


Driver Selected Operating Modes While driving in Electric or Extended Range Mode, additional operating modes can be selected.


In either Electric Mode or Extended Range Mode, when the hood is open, the engine will run without turning off if the vehicle is on. The high voltage battery is neither charged nor discharged when this occurs. In either Electric Mode or Extended Range Mode, if there is a high voltage battery fault, the engine may run without turning off to generate needed electricity. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp will turn on. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19.


Press the DRIVE MODE button to display selectable drive modes in the Driver Information Center (DIC). Continue pressing to scroll through the modes.


Highlight either the Mountain or Sport Mode, then release the DRIVE MODE button. After three seconds, the new drive mode will become active. Pressing the DRIVE MODE button again will return to Normal Mode, and become active after three seconds. At next start, the vehicle will default to the Normal Mode. Drive modes can then be selected again as desired. During some conditions, certain drive modes may be unavailable. The unavailable mode is grayed out in the DIC menu and cannot be selected.


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If in Sport or Mountain Mode, either may become unavailable and the vehicle will return to Normal Mode. The indicator light goes off and a DIC message displays. See Propulsion Power Messages on page 5‑45. Sport Mode


Press the DRIVE MODE button again to return to Normal Mode and it becomes active after three seconds. The Sport light comes on when Sport Mode is selected. See Sport Mode Light on page 5‑24. Mountain Mode


Sport Mode releases more energy from the high voltage battery under heavy acceleration. The vehicle will be more responsive to the accelerator pedal. Press the DRIVE MODE button to select Sport Mode.


Mountain Mode should be selected at the beginning of a trip before climbing steep, uphill grades and when expecting to drive in very hilly or mountainous terrain. This mode maintains a reserve electrical charge of the high voltage battery to provide better grade climbing


Driving and Operating


9-25


performance. While driving in Mountain Mode, the vehicle will have less responsive acceleration. Mountain Mode will not change normal vehicle braking performance for steep downhill grades. See Hill and Mountain Roads on page 9‑10
and Electric Drive Unit on page 9‑29. Press the DRIVE MODE button to select Mountain Mode. The engine may run when Mountain Mode is selected, depending on high voltage battery charge, to build reserve electrical charge for uphill climbs. Operating in Mountain Mode will adjust the electric range by subtracting just the electric range being held in reserve. Electric range reserve still unused upon exiting Mountain Mode will be added back to the electric range display. See Driving for Better Energy Efficiency on page 9‑2. Press the Drive Mode button again to return to Normal Mode and it becomes active in three seconds.


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Driving and Operating


The MOUNTAIN light comes on when Mountain Mode is selected. See Mountain Mode Light on page 5‑24.


Out of Fuel/Engine Unavailable If the vehicle runs out of fuel, or the engine will not start due to a malfunction, the vehicle can continue to be driven in Electric Mode. The vehicle will have less responsive acceleration. DIC messages indicate reduced propulsion power, that the engine is not available, and the need for fuel or service. Once the vehicle is refueled, or the malfunction is corrected, the engine will perform a self test and attempt to start the next time the vehicle is turned on. Once the engine starts, normal operation will continue. See Fuel System Messages on page 5‑43
and Service Vehicle Messages on page 5‑46.


Maintenance Modes


Engine Maintenance Mode (EMM) Engine Maintenance Mode (EMM) runs the engine to keep it in good working condition after approximately six weeks of no or very limited engine operation. EMM will force the engine to run, even if there is a charge to power the vehicle. When EMM is needed, the EMM Request screen appears on the center stack display at vehicle start.


EMM, a DIC message displays to show the EMM percentage complete. If No is selected, the EMM Request screen will appear when the vehicle is next started. The EMM request can be delayed for only one day. If the EMM request was delayed for one day, EMM will automatically start the engine at the next vehicle start. An EMM Notification screen will appear in the center stack display.


If Yes is selected, EMM will begin. The engine will run for a set amount of time without turning off. During


If the vehicle shuts off during EMM, it will restart the next time the vehicle is driven. A message displays to indicate that EMM is active.


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Driving and Operating


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If EMM is required and the fuel level is low, EMM may eventually empty the fuel tank if fuel is not added. This will result in reduced, or no power. An adequate fuel level must be maintained in the vehicle to keep it operational. See Propulsion Power Messages on page 5‑45.


run until enough fresh fuel is added to bring the average fuel age into an acceptable range. Allowing more old fuel to be used up by FMM and adding a larger amount of fresh fuel will maximize the length of time before another fuel maintenance mode is needed. During FMM the engine may turn on and off. When FMM is needed, the FMM Request screen appears on the center stack display at vehicle start.


Fuel Maintenance Mode (FMM) Fuel Maintenance Mode (FMM) tracks average fuel age. Old fuel can cause engine problems. If low engine usage causes average fuel age to exceed approximately one year, FMM will run the engine to use up the old fuel. The engine will


If Yes is selected, FMM will begin. FMM will automatically continue at each vehicle start until fresh fuel is added.


If No is selected, the FMM Request screen will appear when the vehicle is next started. The FMM request can be delayed for only one day. If the FMM request was delayed for one day, FMM will start at the next vehicle start and display the FMM Notification screen on the center stack display. If FMM is required and the fuel level is low, FMM may eventually empty the fuel tank if fuel is not added. This will result in reduced, or no power. An adequate fuel level must be maintained in the vehicle to keep it operational. See Propulsion Power Messages on page 5‑45.


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Driving and Operating


Engine Exhaust { WARNING


Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. Exposure to CO can cause unconsciousness and even death. Exhaust may enter the vehicle if:


. The engine is running in


Extended Range Mode in areas with poor ventilation (parking garages, tunnels, or deep snow that may block underbody airflow or tail pipes).


. The exhaust smells or


sounds strange or different.


. The exhaust system leaks


due to corrosion or damage.


(Continued)


WARNING (Continued)


. The vehicle exhaust system


has been modified, damaged, or improperly repaired.


. There are holes or openings


in the vehicle body from damage or aftermarket modifications that are not completely sealed.


If unusual fumes are detected or if it is suspected that exhaust is coming into the vehicle:


. Drive it only with the windows


completely down.


. Have the vehicle repaired


immediately.


Never park with the engine running in Extended Range Mode in an enclosed area such as a garage or a building that has no fresh air ventilation.


Running the Vehicle While Parked It is better not to park with the propulsion system on. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.


{ WARNING


Leaving the engine running in Extended Range Mode in an enclosed area with poor ventilation is dangerous. Engine exhaust may enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust contains Carbon Monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. Never run the engine in an enclosed area that has no fresh air ventilation. For more information, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑28.


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{ WARNING


It can be dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the electric drive unit shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll. Do not leave the vehicle with the propulsion system on unless you have to. If you have left the propulsion system on, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when you are on level ground, always set the parking brake and move the shift lever to P (Park).


Follow the proper steps to be sure the vehicle will not move. See Shifting Into Park on page 9‑21.


Electric Drive Unit The vehicle uses an electric drive unit. The shift lever is on the console between the seats.


P (Park): This position locks the front wheels. It is the best position to use when starting the propulsion system because the vehicle cannot move easily.


Driving and Operating


9-29


{ WARNING


It is dangerous to get out of the vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P (Park) with the parking brake firmly set. The vehicle can roll. Do not leave the vehicle when the propulsion system is running unless you have to. If you have left the propulsion system running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure the vehicle will not move, even when you are on fairly level ground, always set the parking brake and move the shift lever to P (Park). See Shifting Into Park on page 9‑21.


Make sure the shift lever is fully in P (Park) before starting the propulsion system. The vehicle has an electric drive unit shift lock


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Driving and Operating


control system. The regular brake must be fully applied first and then the shift lever button pressed before shifting from P (Park) when the vehicle is in ON/RUN. If you cannot shift out of P (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever, then push the shift lever all the way into P (Park) as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into another gear. See Shifting Out of Park on page 9‑22. R (Reverse): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse) while the vehicle is moving forward could damage the electric drive unit. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Shift to R (Reverse) only after the vehicle is stopped. To rock the vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice, or sand without damaging the electric drive unit, see If the Vehicle is Stuck on page 9‑13.


In this position, the


N (Neutral): propulsion system does not connect with the wheels. D (Drive): This position is for normal driving. It provides the best fuel economy. If more power is needed for passing, and the vehicle is: . Going less than 56 km/h


(35 mph), push the accelerator pedal about halfway down.


. Going about 56 km/h (35 mph) or


more, push the accelerator all the way down.


Notice: If the vehicle seems to accelerate slowly or not respond when you go faster, and you continue to drive the vehicle that way, you could damage the electric drive unit. Have the vehicle serviced right away.


L (Low): This position reduces vehicle speed without using the brakes. You can use L (Low) on hills. It can help control vehicle speed going down steep mountain roads along with using the brakes off and on. You can use L (Low) on very steep hills, in deep snow, or in mud. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the electric drive unit. The repair will not be covered by the vehicle warranty. If you are stuck, do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill, use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place.


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Driving and Operating


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Brakes


Antilock Brake System (ABS) This vehicle has the Antilock Brake System (ABS), an advanced electronic braking system that helps prevent a braking skid. When propulsion is active and the vehicle begins to drive away, ABS checks itself. A momentary motor or clicking noise might be heard while this test is going on, and it might even be noticed that the brake pedal moves a little. This is normal.


If there is a problem with ABS, this warning light stays on. See Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light on page 5‑23.


If driving safely on a wet road and it becomes necessary to slam on the brakes and continue braking to avoid a sudden obstacle, a computer senses that the wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each wheel. ABS can change the brake pressure to each wheel, as required, faster than any driver could. This can help the driver steer around the obstacle while braking hard. As the brakes are applied, the computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly. Remember: ABS does not change the time needed to get a foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, there will not be enough time to apply the brakes if that vehicle


suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even with ABS. Using ABS Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let ABS work. You might hear the ABS pump or motor operating and feel the brake pedal pulsate, but this is normal. Braking in Emergencies ABS allows the driver to steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help more than even the very best braking.


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Driving and Operating


Electric Parking Brake


The vehicle has an Electric Parking Brake (EPB). The Y switch is on the center stack. The EPB can always be activated, even if the vehicle is off. To prevent draining the 12‐volt battery, avoid repeated cycles of the EPB system when the vehicle is off. In case of insufficient electrical power, the EPB cannot be applied or released.


Before leaving the vehicle, check the Electric Parking Brake Light to ensure the parking brake is applied. EPB Apply The EPB can be applied anytime the vehicle is stopped. The EPB is applied by momentarily lifting up on the Y switch. Once fully applied, the Electric Parking Brake Light will be on. While the brake is being applied, the Electric Parking Brake Light will flash until full apply is reached. If the light does not come on, or remains flashing, have the vehicle serviced. Do not drive the vehicle if the Electric Parking Brake Light is flashing. See your dealer. If the EPB is applied while the vehicle is in motion, a chime will sound, and the DIC message RELEASE PARKING BRAKE will be displayed. The vehicle will decelerate as long as the switch is held in the up position.


Releasing the Y switch during the deceleration will release the parking brake. If the Y switch is held in the up position until the vehicle comes to a stop, the EPB will remain applied. If the Electric Parking Brake Light flashes continuously, the EPB is only partially applied or released, or there is a problem with the EPB. The DIC message SERVICE PARKING BRAKE will be displayed. If this light flashes continuously, release the EPB, and attempt to apply it again. If this light continues to flash, do not drive the vehicle. See your dealer. If the Service Electric Parking Brake Light is on, the EPB has detected a system problem and is operating with reduced functionality. To apply the EPB when this light is on, lift up on the Y switch and hold it in the up position. Full application of the parking brake by the EPB system may take a longer period of time than normal when this light is on.


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Driving and Operating


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Continue to hold the Y switch until the Electric Parking Brake Light remains on. If the Service Electric Parking Brake Light is on, see your dealer. If the EPB fails to apply, the rear wheels should be blocked to prevent vehicle movement. For maximum EPB force when parking on a hill, pull the EPB switch twice. EPB Release To release the EPB, place the vehicle in ON/RUN, apply and hold the brake pedal, and push down momentarily on the Y switch. If attempting to release the EPB without the brake pedal applied, a chime will sound, and the DIC message STEP ON BRAKE TO RELEASE PARK BRAKE will be displayed. The EPB is released when the Electric Parking Brake Light is off.


If the Service Electric Parking Brake Light is on, the EPB has detected a system problem, and is operating with reduced functionality. To release the EPB when this light is on, push down on the Y switch and hold it in the down position. EPB release may take a longer period of time than normal when this light is on. Continue to hold the Y switch until the Electric Parking Brake Light is off. If the light is on, see your dealer. Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts. Make sure that the parking brake is fully released and the Electric Parking Brake Light is off before driving.


Automatic EPB Release The EPB will automatically release if the vehicle is running, placed into gear, and an attempt is made to drive away. Avoid rapid acceleration when the EPB is applied, to preserve parking brake lining life. See Electric Parking Brake Light on page 5‑22, Service Electric Parking Brake Light on page 5‑23, and Brake System Messages on page 5‑41.


Regenerative Braking Regenerative braking takes some of the energy from the moving vehicle and turns it back into electrical energy. This energy is then stored back into the high voltage battery system, contributing to increased energy efficiency. The hydraulic disc brakes work with the regenerative braking to ensure effective braking, such as when a high braking demand is requested.


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Driving and Operating


The braking system is computer controlled and blends the regenerative braking with the conventional hydraulic disc brakes to meet any requirements for deceleration. The controller interprets the braking request and uses regenerative braking, conventional hydraulic braking, or a combination of both as necessary. Because the controller applies the hydraulic brakes through its high pressure accumulator, you may occasionally hear the motor‐driven pump when it recharges the system. This is normal. See Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators on page 5‑9 and Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 5‑38. In the event of a controller problem, the brake pedal may be harder to push and the stopping distance may be longer.


Ride Control Systems


Traction Control System (TCS) The vehicle has a Traction Control System (TCS) that limits wheel spin. The system operates if it senses that one or both of the drive wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system brakes the spinning wheel(s) and/or reduces power to limit wheel spin. The system may be heard or felt while it is working, but this is normal. To assist with directional control of the vehicle, TCS comes on automatically whenever the vehicle is started and cannot be turned off. When the vehicle is started and begins to move, the system performs several diagnostic checks to ensure there are no problems.


The system may be heard or felt while it is working. This is normal and does not mean there is a problem with the vehicle. The system should initialize before the vehicle reaches 32 km/h (20 mph). In some cases, it may take approximately 3.2 km (2 mi) of driving before the system initializes. The Traction Control System may activate on dry or rough roads or under conditions such as heavy acceleration while turning or abrupt changes in output from the electric drive unit. When this happens, a reduction in acceleration may be noticed, or a noise or vibration may be heard. This is normal.


The TCS/StabiliTrak warning light will flash to indicate that the traction control system is active.


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If there is a problem detected, the SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL message displays in the DIC. See Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑46. When this message is displayed and d comes on and stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive but the system is not operational. If d comes on and stays on, reset the system: 1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Turn the vehicle off and wait


15 seconds.


3. Start the vehicle. If d still comes on and stays on, the vehicle needs service. Adding non‐GM accessories can affect vehicle performance. See Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3 for more information.


Electronic Stability Control (ESC) The vehicle has an Electronic Stability Control system called StabiliTrak. It is an advanced computer‐controlled system that assists with directional control of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. StabiliTrak comes on automatically whenever the vehicle is started and cannot be turned off. The system may be heard or felt while it is working, but this is normal. StabiliTrak activates when the computer senses a difference between the intended path and the direction the vehicle is actually traveling. StabiliTrak selectively applies braking pressure to help steer the vehicle in the intended direction.


Driving and Operating


9-35


When the vehicle is started and begins to move, the system performs several diagnostic checks to ensure there are no problems. The system may be heard or felt while it is working. This is normal and does not mean there is a problem with the vehicle. The system should initialize before the vehicle reaches 32 km/h (20 mph). In some cases, it may take approximately 3.2 km (2 mi) of driving before the system initializes.


When the stability control system activates, the Traction Control System (TCS)/StabiliTrak light flashes on the instrument cluster. This also occurs when traction control is activated. This is normal. Continue to steer the vehicle in the intended direction.


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Driving and Operating


If there is a problem detected, the SERVICE STABILITRAK message displays in the DIC. When this message is displayed and the StabiliTrak light comes on and stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive but the system is not operational. See Ride Control System Messages on page 5‑46. If d comes on and stays on, reset the system: 1. Stop the vehicle. 2. Turn the vehicle off and wait


15 seconds.


3. Start the vehicle. If d still comes on and stays on, the vehicle needs service. If cruise control is being used when StabiliTrak activates, the cruise control will automatically disengage. Press the cruise control button to reengage when road conditions allow. See Cruise Control on page 9‑36 for more information.


Cruise Control The cruise control lets the vehicle maintain a speed of about 40 km/h (25 mph) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. Cruise control does not work at speeds below 40 km/h (25 mph). With the Traction Control System (TCS) or Electronic Stability Control (ESC), the system may begin to limit wheel spin while you are using cruise control. If this happens, the cruise control will automatically disengage. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 9‑34 or Electronic Stability Control (ESC) on page 9‑35.


{ WARNING


Cruise control can be dangerous where you cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do not use the cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.


(Continued)


WARNING (Continued)


Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause excessive wheel slip, and you could lose control. Do not use cruise control on slippery roads.


The cruise control buttons are on the steering wheel.


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1 (On/Off): Press to turn the cruise control system on and off. An indicator light will turn on or off in the instrument cluster. [ (Cancel): Press to disengage cruise control without erasing the set speed from memory. RES/+ (Resume/Accel): Move the thumbwheel up to resume to a previously set speed or to accelerate. SET/− (Set/Coast): Move the thumbwheel down to set a speed and activate cruise control or to make the vehicle decelerate.


Setting Cruise Control If the cruise button is on when not in use, it could get bumped and go into cruise when not desired. Keep the cruise control button off when cruise is not being used. To set a speed:


1. Press 1 to turn cruise


control on.


2. Get up to the speed desired. 3. Move the thumbwheel down toward SET/− and release it. The desired set speed briefly appears in the instrument cluster.


4. Take your foot off the accelerator


pedal.


When the brakes are applied, the cruise control shuts off.


Resuming a Set Speed If the cruise control is set at a desired speed and then the brakes are applied, the cruise control is disengaged without erasing the set speed from memory. Once the vehicle speed is about 40 km/h (25 mph) or greater, move the thumbwheel up toward RES/+ briefly and then release it. The vehicle returns to the previously set speed and stays there.


Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control If the cruise control system is already activated: . Move the thumbwheel up toward


RES/+ and hold it until the vehicle accelerates to the desired speed, then release it. To increase the speed in small amounts, move the thumbwheel up toward RES/+ briefly and then release it. Each time this is done, the vehicle goes about 1.6 km/h (1 mph) faster.


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Driving and Operating


Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control If the cruise control system is already activated: . Move the thumbwheel toward


SET/− and hold until the desired lower speed is reached, then release it. To slow down in very small amounts, move the thumbwheel toward SET/− briefly. Each time this is done, the vehicle goes about 1.6 km/h (1 mph) slower.


Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase vehicle speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, the vehicle will slow down to the previously set cruise control speed.


Using Cruise Control on Hills How well the cruise control works on hills depends upon the vehicle speed, load, and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you might have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain the vehicle speed. When going downhill, you might have to brake or shift to a lower gear to maintain the vehicle speed. When the brakes are applied the cruise control is disengaged.


Ending Cruise Control There are three ways to end cruise control: . Step lightly on the brake pedal; when cruise control disengages, the indicator light will not be lit.


. Press [.


. Press 1 to turn the cruise


control system off completely. The cruise control cannot be resumed.


Erasing Speed Memory The cruise control set speed is erased from memory by pressing 1
or if the vehicle is turned off.


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Object Detection Systems


Ultrasonic Parking Assist For vehicles with the Ultrasonic Front and Rear Parking Assist (UFRPA) system, it assists the driver with parking and avoiding objects. UFRPA operates at speeds less than 8 km/h (5 mph). The sensors on the front and rear bumper detect objects up to 1.2 m (4 ft) in front of the vehicle, 2.5 m (8 ft) behind the vehicle, and at least 25.4 cm (10 in) off the ground.


Driving and Operating


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{ WARNING


The Ultrasonic Front and Rear Parking Assist (UFRPA) system does not replace driver vision. It cannot detect:


. Objects that are below the


bumper, underneath the vehicle, or if they are too close or far from the vehicle.


. Children, pedestrians,


bicyclists, or pets.


If you do not use proper care before moving forward and while backing; vehicle damage, injury, or death could occur. Even with UFRPA, always check in front of the vehicle before moving forward and behind the vehicle before backing up. While moving forward and backing, be sure to look for objects and check the vehicle mirrors.


How the System Works UFRPA comes on automatically when the shift lever is moved into R (Reverse). The front and rear sensors are automatically turned on. After the vehicle is shifted out of R (Reverse), the rear sensors are turned off and the front sensors stay on until the vehicle is above a speed of 8 km/h (5 mph). The front sensors may also be turned on by pressing the park assist button in the overhead console without shifting into R (Reverse) while the vehicle is traveling at a low speed. See “Turning the System On and Off” later in this section. When the vehicle is in N (Neutral), the system may be active. If the vehicle is in a car wash, the sensors may detect objects in the car wash. See “Turning the System On and Off” later in this section to turn the system off.


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Driving and Operating


High-toned beeps from the front speakers are for objects detected near the front bumper. Low-toned beeps from the rear speakers are for objects detected near the rear bumper. The interval between the beeps becomes shorter as the vehicle gets closer to the obstacle. When the distance is less than 30 cm (12 in) the beeps are continuous. To be detected, objects must be at least 25.4 cm (10 in) off the ground and below hood or hatch level. Objects must also be within 1.2 m (4 ft) in front of the vehicle and 2.5 m (8 ft) from the rear bumper. This distance may be less during warmer or humid weather. PARK ASSIST OFF displays on the Driver Information Center (DIC) to indicate that UFRPA is off. The message disappears after a short period of time.


Objects Detected by Both the Front and Rear Sensors If objects are detected at the same time near both the front and rear bumpers while backing up, the beeps only sound to indicate that objects are close to the rear bumper. If an object comes within 0.3 m (1 ft) of the front bumper while the vehicle is backing up and at the same time there is another object further than 0.3 m (1 ft) from the rear bumper, then the beeps only sound to indicate the object that is closer to the front bumper. Turning the System On and Off The UFRPA system can be turned on and off by pressing the park assist button in the overhead console.


The park assist button lights up when the system is on and turns off when it has been disabled. When the System Does Not Seem to Work Properly If UFRPA does not turn on due to a temporary condition, the message PARK ASSIST OFF displays on the DIC, and the light on the park assist button turns off. This can occur under the following conditions:


The ultrasonic sensors are not clean. Keep the sensors free of mud, dirt, snow, ice, and slush. For cleaning instructions, see Exterior Care on page 10‑81.


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The vehicle was washed in cold weather. This may cause frost or ice to form in the park assist sensors. Keep the sensors free of frost or ice.


. An object was hanging out of the hatch during the last drive cycle. Once the attached object is removed, UFRPA will return to normal operation. The bumper is damaged. Take the vehicle to your dealer to repair the system.


. Other conditions may affect


system performance, such as vibrations from a jackhammer or the compression of air brakes on a very large truck.


Rear Vision Camera (RVC) The vehicle may have a Rear Vision Camera (RVC) system. Read this entire section before using it.


The RVC system can assist the driver when backing up by displaying a view of the area behind the vehicle.


{ WARNING


The Rear Vision Camera (RVC) system does not replace driver vision. RVC does not:


. Detect objects that are


outside the camera's field of view, below the bumper, or underneath the vehicle.


. Detect children, pedestrians,


bicyclists, or pets.


Do not back the vehicle by only looking at the RVC screen, or use the screen during longer, higher speed backing maneuvers or where there could be cross-traffic. Your judged distances using the screen will differ from actual distances.


(Continued)


WARNING (Continued)


If you do not use proper care before backing up, you could hit a vehicle, child, pedestrian, bicyclist, or pet, resulting in vehicle damage, injury, or death. Even though the vehicle has the RVC system, always check carefully before backing up by checking behind and around the vehicle.


How the System Works When the vehicle is shifted into R (Reverse), the image of the area behind the vehicle appears in the center stack display with the message CHECK SURROUNDINGS FOR SAFETY. The previous screen displays when the vehicle is shifted out of R (Reverse) after approximately 10 seconds.


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Driving and Operating


To cancel the delay, do one of the following: . Press a button on the infotainment system.


. Shift into P (Park). . Reach a vehicle speed of


8 km/h (5 mph).


Turning the Rear Vision Camera System On or Off To turn the RVC system on or off: 1. Shift into P (Park). 2. Press the CONFIG button on the


center stack.


3. Select Display. 4. Select Camera. When a


checkmark appears next to Camera, then the RVC system is on.


Symbols The navigation system may have a feature that lets the driver view symbols on the navigation screen while using the RVC. The Ultrasonic Front and Rear Parking Assist (UFRPA) system must not be disabled to use the caution symbols. The error message REAR PARKING ASSIST SYMBOLS UNAVAILABLE may display if UFRPA has been disabled and the symbols have been turned on. See Ultrasonic Parking Assist on page 9‑39. The symbols appear and may cover an object when viewing the navigation screen when an object is detected by the UFRPA system. To turn the symbols on or off: 1. Shift into P (Park). 2. Press the CONFIG button on the


center stack.


3. Select Display. 4. Select Symbols. When a


checkmark appears next to Symbols, symbols will appear.


Guidelines The RVC system has a guideline overlay that can help the driver align the vehicle when backing into a parking spot. To turn the guidelines on or off: 1. Shift into P (Park). 2. Press the CONFIG button on the


center stack.


3. Select Display. 4. Select Guidelines. When a checkmark appears next to Guidelines, guidelines will appear.


Rear Vision Camera Error Messages SERVICE REAR VISION CAMERA SYSTEM: If this message appears in the center stack display, the system is not receiving information it requires from other vehicle systems. If any other problem occurs or if a problem persists, see your dealer.


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Rear Vision Camera Location


It does not display objects that are close to either corner or under the bumper and can vary depending on vehicle orientation or road conditions. The distance of the image that appears on the screen is different from the actual distance. The following illustration shows the field of view that the camera provides.


The RVC is located above the license plate. The area displayed by the camera is limited.


A. View displayed by the camera. B. Corner of the rear bumper.


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Driving and Operating


Charging


Plug-In Charging This section explains the process for charging the vehicle's high voltage battery. Do not allow the vehicle to remain in temperature extremes for long periods without being driven or plugged in. It is recommended that the vehicle be plugged in when temperatures are below 0°C (32°F) and above 32°C (90°F) to maximize high voltage battery life. The charging system may run fans and pumps that result in sounds from the vehicle while it is turned off. Additional unexpected clicking sounds may be experienced caused by the electrical devices used while charging.


When the System Does Not Seem To Work Properly The RVC system may not work properly or display a clear image if:


The RVC is turned off. See “Turning the Rear Vision Camera System On or Off” earlier in this section. It is dark. The sun or the beam of headlamps is shining directly into the camera lens. Ice, snow, mud, or anything else has built up on the camera lens. Clean the lens, rinse it with water, and wipe it with a soft cloth. The back of the vehicle was in an accident. The position and mounting angle of the camera can change or the camera can be affected. Be sure to have the camera and its position and mounting angle checked at your dealer.


Charging


Start Charge


1. The charge port door release


button is on the driver door inner trim panel. With the vehicle in P (Park), press the button for one second and release to open the charge port door. The charge port door can also be opened using the RKE transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation on page 2‑3.


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In cold weather conditions, ice may form around the charge port door. The charge port door may not open on the first attempt. Remove ice from the area and repeat attempting to open the charge port door.


Pull up on the charge cord handle (D) to release it from the handle clip (E). Lift the charge cord up and rearward to remove it from the vehicle. The vehicle plug (B) is stored as shown. 3. Plug the charge cord into the


electrical outlet. See Electrical Requirements for Battery Charging on page 9‑51. Verify that the charge cord status indicators are both green. See Charge Cord on page 9‑49 for more information.


2. Open the rear hatch, lift the


load support floor covering (A), and remove the charge cord. It is located near the tire sealant and compressor kit (C).


4. Then plug in the vehicle plug of the charge cord into the charge port on the vehicle. Verify that the charging status indicator illuminates on top of the instrument panel and a horn chirp occurs. See Charging Status Feedback on page 9‑47
for more information.


5. To arm the charge cord theft


alert, lock the vehicle with the RKE transmitter. This feature can be disabled by a service technician.


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Driving and Operating


End Charge 1. Unlock the vehicle with the RKE transmitter to disarm the charge cord theft alert.


2. Unplug the vehicle plug of the


charge cord from the vehicle by squeezing the vehicle plug lever and pull to remove.


3. Unplug the charge cord from the


electrical outlet.


4. Before storing the charge cord,


have the charge cord face up and wrap the charge cable neatly counterclockwise around the body of the charge cord.


5. Place the charge cord,


face down, into the storage compartment with the front edge (F) of the charge cord body under the clips (G) located in the front of the storage compartment. The vehicle plug (B) should be on the right side of the charge cord. Push the charge cord handle down until it locks into the handle clip at the rear of the storage compartment.


While the charge cord is plugged into the vehicle, the vehicle cannot be driven.


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Delayed Charging Override To temporarily override a delayed charge event, unplug the charge cord from the charge port and then plug it back in within five seconds. A single horn chirp will sound and charging will begin immediately. To cancel a temporary override, unplug the charge cord, wait for 10 seconds, and then plug the charge cord back in. A double horn chirp will sound and charging will be delayed. See “Programmable Charging” in Charging on page 5‑30 for advance charge scheduling options.


Long Flashing Green – Vehicle is plugged in. Battery is not fully charged. Battery charging is delayed.


. Short Flashing Green – Vehicle


is plugged in. Battery is fully charged.


. Solid Yellow – Vehicle is plugged


in. Charging system has detected a fault and will not charge the battery. See “Charge Cord Status Indicators” later in this section.


The system may be thermally conditioning the battery during any of the states above, requiring electrical energy to be transferred to the vehicle.


Charging Status Feedback


The vehicle has a Charging Status Indicator (CSI) at the center of the instrument panel near the windshield. When the vehicle is plugged in and the vehicle power is off, the CSI indicates the following: . Solid Green – Vehicle is plugged


in. Battery is not fully charged. Battery is charging.


Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2011


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Driving and Operating


If the vehicle is plugged in and vehicle power is on, the CSI will be on solid green. The same is true during a remote start if the vehicle is plugged in. If the vehicle is plugged in and the CSI is off, a charging fault has been detected. See “Charge Cord Status Indicators” later in this section.


This chart indicates vehicle feedback when the charge cord is plugged in.


Charging Status


Indicator Solid Green Long Flashing


Green


Short Flashing


Green


Sound


Action/Reason


One horn chirp


Two horn chirps


Charging has begun. Charging is delayed, scheduled to begin later.


None


Charging is complete.


Solid Yellow


None


Solid Green or Long


Flashing Green


Four horn chirps


None


None


Charge cord is okay, but vehicle is not charging. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19. Insufficient time to fully charge by departure time. Charge cord connection should be checked.


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Charging Status


Indicator


Sound


Action/Reason


None


Repeated horn chirps To stop this alert, do one of the following: . Unplug the


charge cord.


. Sound the horn. . Sound the panic


alarm and then cancel it.


This feature can be disabled by a service technician.


Electricity was interrupted before charging was complete.


Charge Cord See Radio Frequency Statement on page 13‑26 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal


Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.


A. Charge Level Button B. Charge Level Indicators C. Charge Cord Status Indicators D. Vehicle Plug E. Wall Plug A portable charge cord used to charge the vehicle high voltage battery is stored under the rear luggage compartment.


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Driving and Operating


The charge cord used to charge the vehicle is a high‐powered electrical device. During normal operation, the AC wall plug of the charge cord may feel warm. The AC wall plug must fit tightly into an AC outlet that is in good condition.


{ WARNING


Using the charge cord with a worn or damaged AC outlet may cause burns or start a fire. Periodically, check the AC wall plug and charge cord while the vehicle is charging. If the AC wall plug feels hot, unplug the charge cord and have the AC outlet replaced by a qualified electrician. Replace the charge cord if the AC wall plug or cord are damaged. Do not use an AC outlet that is worn or damaged.


{ WARNING


An extension cord should not be used to charge the vehicle. Use of an extension cord may increase the risk of electric shock or other hazards. If an extension cord is used because of limited access to 120V AC power, use the following safeguards: The 120V AC outlet should be GFCI protected. The extension cord should be:


. GFCI protected. . 12 or 14 gage, 3 conductor. . Rated for outdoor.


Charge Cord Status Indicators The charge cord status indicators illuminate green or flashing red to identify the charge cord status. When both indicators are green, the vehicle can be charged. If any indicators are flashing red, the charge cord will not permit vehicle charging.


A flashing red AC PRESENT (A) indicates the AC voltage is out of range. Flashing red AC PRESENT (A) and FAULT (B) indicate the AC outlet does not have a proper safety ground. Charging is not permitted for safety reasons. The AC outlet must be repaired or another outlet source should be used.


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A flashing red FAULT (B) indicates a charge cord fault. The charge cord will attempt to reset automatically. If the flashing red FAULT (B) continues for more than 30 seconds, unplug the charge cord from the wall to reset. If the fault remains, see your dealer for service. Charge Level Button Two charge levels are available by pressing the charge level button. Select reduced or normal level. The charge level cannot be changed when the vehicle plug is plugged into the charge port on the vehicle. If the charge level button is pressed while the vehicle plug is plugged into the charge port on the vehicle, the charge level indicators


will flash briefly. To change the charge level, unplug the vehicle plug from the charge port on the vehicle and select the desired charge level. Normal Level: This level is recommended. All four charge level indicators will be lit. Reduced Level: Use when the electrical current is limited. Two charge level indicators will be lit. Vehicle Plug The vehicle plug attaches to the charge port on the vehicle. There is a flashlight built into the vehicle plug that can be used by squeezing the vehicle plug lever. The flashlight will turn off when the connection is complete and the lever is released.


Electrical Requirements for Battery Charging The AC outlet must have a grounded, dedicated, 15 amp or greater, three‐prong wall plug. That means there should be no other major appliances connected to the same circuit. If it is not a dedicated circuit, the current rating of the outlet circuit breaker could be exceeded and cause it to trip or open. The vehicle can be charged in the reduced level mode. See “Charge Level Button” in this section. Reduced level mode allows a non‐dedicated circuit to be used but increases the charging time. This vehicle is capable of being charged with a variety of standard vehicle charging equipment.


Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2011


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Driving and Operating


Fuel Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the proper maintenance of this vehicle. To help keep the engine clean and maintain optimum vehicle performance, we recommend the use of gasoline advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Look for the TOP TIER label on the fuel pump to ensure gasoline meets enhanced detergency standards developed by auto companies. A list of marketers providing TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline can be found at www.toptiergas.com.


The following are the minimum requirements for circuits used to charge this vehicle:


120V/15Amp 240V/20Amp


Charging equipment with a rating of at least 240V/20Amp will provide the fastest charging time to recharge the high voltage battery. 240V/40Amp circuits provide flexibility for future vehicle charging needs. Contact your dealer for more information. Do not use non‐grounded electrical plug adapters. Notice: Do not use portable or stationary backup generating equipment to charge the vehicle. This may cause damage to the vehicle's charging system. Only charge the vehicle from utility supplied power.


Use premium unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 91 or higher. If the octane is less than 91, you could damage the engine. If heavy knocking is heard when using gasoline rated at 91 octane or higher, the engine needs service.


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Gasoline Specifications (U.S. and Canada Only) At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM specification D 4814
in the United States or CAN/CGSB‐3.5 or 3.511 in Canada. Some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT). We recommend against the use of gasolines containing MMT. See Fuel Additives on page 9‑54 for additional information.


California Fuel Requirements If the vehicle is certified to meet California Emissions Standards, it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. See the underhood emission control label. If this fuel is not available in states adopting California Emissions Standards, the vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance might be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp could turn on and the vehicle might fail a smog‐check test. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19. If this occurs, return to your authorized dealer for diagnosis. If it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs might not be covered by the vehicle warranty.


Fuels in Foreign Countries Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you will be driving.


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Driving and Operating


Fuel Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing the emission control system to work properly. In most cases, nothing should have to be added to the fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations. To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean and avoid problems due to dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Look for the TOP TIER label on the fuel pump to ensure gasoline meets enhanced detergency standards developed by the auto companies. A list of marketers providing TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline can be found at www.toptiergas.com.


For customers who do not use TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline regularly, one bottle of GM Fuel System Treatment PLUS, added to the fuel tank at every engine oil change, can help clean deposits from fuel injectors and intake valves. GM Fuel System Treatment PLUS is the only gasoline additive recommended by General Motors. It is available at your dealer. Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines might be available in your area. We recommend that you use these gasolines, if they comply with the specifications described earlier. However, E85 (85% ethanol) and other fuels containing more than 10% ethanol must not be used in vehicles that were not designed for those fuels.

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