Download PDF Manual

on-screen menu.


3. Brightness Button


Changes the brightness of the screen picture.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 229


Screen Button


230 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


Operating Instructions — Headphones


Rear Headphones


1. Power Button 2. Volume Control 3. Power Indicator


Power Button Pressing the power button will turn the headphones ON/OFF. An indicator light will illuminate on the head- phone earpiece to indicate the headphones are ON. NOTE: • The headphones will turn off automatically in ap- proximately 3 minutes if they lose the signal form the system or when the radio or rear audio/video system is turned off.


Volume Control Rotate the volume control to adjust the volume to the desired listening level.


Headphone Battery Service • Press the button at the bottom of each headphone


earpiece and lift the cover upward.


• Replace the battery in each earpiece and reinstall the


Headphone Battery Service


cover. The headphones require two AAA batteries.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 231


General Information This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules and RSS 210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. If you do not hear sound coming from the headphones, check for the following conditions: 1. Rear Seat Audio/Video System and headphones are on. Press the headphone transmitter button (1) on the remote control and the power button on the headphones. An indicator light will illuminate on the headphone earpiece to indicate the headphones are ON. 2. Weak batteries in the headphones.


232 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


3. Direct sunlight or objects blocking the line of sight between the headphone transmitter on the video screen and the headphones. Operating Instructions — MP3 Player, Portable Walkman An MP3 player can be connected to the audio system. Connect the cables to the RCA jacks located on the front of the CD/DVD changer. NOTE: Follow the manufactures instructions for the correct colors when connecting the RCA cables. Operating Instructions — Video Games/Camcorders A video game unit or camcorder can be connected to the rear audio/video system. Connect the cables to the RCA jacks located on the front of the CD/DVD changer.


NOTE: To operate a video game unit a DC to AC adapter may be required, plug the adapter into any power outlet. Follow the manufactures instructions for the correct colors when connecting the RCA cables. NOTE: MP3 player’s, video game systems, camcorders connected to the RCA jacks and CD’s or DVD’s inserted into the radio, can be heard through the headphones or the cabin when AUX Mode is selected.


NAVIGATION SYSTEM — IF EQUIPPED The navigation system provides maps, turn identifica- tion, selection menus and instructions for selecting a variety of destinations and routes. The buttons to operate the system are located on the instrument panel next to the analog clock. Refer to your Navigation User’s Manual for detailed operating instructions.


The navigation DVD unit is located in the underfloor storage compartment in the rear cargo area. A single disc containing map information for the entire United States and parts of Canada is stored in the DVD unit. Updated DVD’s are available from your authorized dealer.


To replace the navigation map DVD lift the storage bin cover and liner in the rear cargo area, press the eject button and the disc will eject. Gently insert the new disc into the DVD unit with the label facing up. The disc will automatically be pulled into the DVD unit.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 233


SATELLITE RADIO — IF EQUIPPED Satellite radio uses direct satellite to receiver broadcast- ing technology to provide clear digital sound, coast to coast. The subscription service provider is Sirius™ Satel- lite Radio. This service offers up to 100 channels of music, sports, news, entertainment, and programming for chil- dren, directly from its satellites and broadcasting studios.


Navigation DVD Location


234 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


System Activation To activate your Sirius Satellite Radio service, call the toll-free number 888-539-7474, or visit the Sirius web site at www.sirius.com. Please have the following informa- tion available when activating your system: 1. The Electronic Serial Number/Sirius Identification Number (ESN/SID). 2. Credit card information. 3. Your Vehicle Identification Number. Electronic Serial Number/Sirius Identification Number (ENS/SID) The Electronic Serial Number/Sirius Identification Num- ber is needed to activate your Sirius Satellite Radio system. To access the ESN/SID, refer to the following steps:


ESN/SID Access With RBB, RAH and RBK Radios With the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY position and the radio OFF, press the Tape Eject or CD Eject (depend- ing on the radio type) and Time buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. The first four digits of the twelve-digit ESN/SID number will be displayed. Press the SEEK UP button to display the next four digits. Continue to press the SEEK UP button until all twelve ESN/SID digits have been displayed. The SEEK DOWN will page down until the first four digits are displayed. The radio will exit the ESN/SID mode when any other button is pushed, the ignition is turned OFF, or 5 minutes has passed since any button was pushed. ESN/SID Access With RBP, RBU, RAZ, RB1 and RBQ Radios With the ignition switch in the ACCESSORY position and the radio OFF, press the CD Eject and TIME buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. All twelve ESN/SID num- bers will be displayed. The radio will exit the ESN/SID


mode when any other button is pushed, the ignition is turned OFF, or 5 minutes has passed since any button was pushed. Selecting Satellite Mode in RBB, RAH and RBK Radios Press the MODE button repeatedly until ⬙S A⬙ appears in the display. A CD or tape may remain in the radio while in the Satellite radio mode. Selecting Satellite Mode in RBP, RBU, RAZ, RB1
and RBQ Radios the word Press the MODE button repeatedly until ⬙SIRIUS⬙ appears in the display. These radios will also display the following: • After 3 seconds, the current channel name and channel • The current program type and channel number will


number will be displayed for 5 seconds.


then be displayed for 5 seconds.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 235


• The current channel number will then be displayed


until an action occurs.


A CD or tape may remain in the radio while in the Satellite radio mode. Selecting a Channel Press and release the SEEK or TUNE buttons to search for the next channel. Press the top of the button to search up and the bottom of the button to search down. Holding the TUNE button causes the radio to bypass channels until the button is released. Press and release the SCAN button (if equipped) to automatically change channels every 7 seconds. The radio will pause on each channel for 7 seconds before moving on to the next channel. The word ⬙SCAN⬙ will appear in the display between each channel change. Press the SCAN button a second time to stop the search.


236 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


NOTE: Channels that may contain objectionable content can be blocked. Contact Sirius Customer Care at 888-539- 7474 to discuss options for channel blocking or unblock- ing. Please have your ESN/SID information available. Storing and Selecting Pre-Set Channels In addition to the 10 AM and 10 FM pre-set stations, you may also commit 10 satellite stations to push button memory. These satellite channel pre-set stations will not erase any AM or FM pre-set memory stations. Follow the memory pre-set procedures that apply to your radio. Using the PTY (Program Type) Button (If Equipped) Follow the PTY button instructions that apply to your radio.


PTY Button ⴖSCANⴖ When the desired program type is obtained, press the ⬙SCAN⬙ button within five seconds. The radio will play 7
seconds of the selected channel before moving to the next channel of the selected program type. Press the ⬙SCAN⬙ button a second time to stop the search. NOTE: Pressing the ⬙SEEK⬙ or ⬙SCAN⬙ button while performing a music type scan will change the channel by one and stop the search. Pressing a pre-set memory button during a music type scan, will call up the memory channel and stop the search. PTY Button ⴖSEEKⴖ When the desired program is obtained, press the ⬙SEEK⬙ button within five seconds. The channel will change to the next channel that matches the program type selected.


Satellite Antenna To ensure optimum reception, do not place items on the roof around the rooftop antenna location or strap items to the trunk lid around the trunk lid antenna (if equipped). Metal objects placed within the line of sight of the antenna will cause decreased performance. Larger lug- gage items such as bikes should be placed as far rearward as possible, within the loading design of the rack. Do not place items directly on or above the antenna. Reception Quality Satellite reception may be interrupted due to one of the following reasons. • The vehicle is parked in an underground parking • Dense tree coverage may interrupt reception in the


structure or under a physical obstacle.


form of short audio mutes.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 237


• Driving under wide bridges or along tall buildings can • Placing objects over or too close to the antenna can


cause intermittent reception.


cause signal blockage.


REMOTE SOUND SYSTEM CONTROLS The remote sound system controls are located on the rear surface of the steering wheel at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions. The right hand rocker switch has a push button in the center and controls the volume and mode of the sound system. Pressing the top of the rocker switch will increase the volume and pressing the bottom of the rocker switch will decrease the volume. Pressing the center button changes the operation of the radio from AM to FM to Tape or CD mode depending on which radio is in the vehicle.


238 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


The left hand rocker switch has a push button in the center. The function of the left hand switch is different depending on which mode you are in. The following describes the left hand rocker switch operation in each mode: Radio Operation Pressing the top of the switch will SEEK up for the next listenable station and pressing the bottom of the switch will SEEK down for the next listenable station. The button located in the center of the left hand switch will tune to the next pre-set station that you have programmed in the radio pre-set push-button. Tape Player Pressing the top of the switch once will go to the next selection on the cassette. Pressing the bottom of the switch once will go to the beginning of the current


selection or to the beginning of the previous selection if it is within the first 5 seconds of the current selection. If you press the switch up or down twice it plays the second selection, three times, it will play the third, etc. The button in the center of the left hand switch has no function in this mode. CD Player Pressing the top of the switch once will go to the next track on the CD. Pressing the bottom of the switch once will go to the beginning of the current track or to the beginning of the previous track if it is within one second after the current track begins to play. If you press the switch up or down twice it plays the second track, three times, it will play the third, etc. The button in the center of the left hand switch has no function in this mode.


CASSETTE TAPE AND PLAYER MAINTENANCE To keep the cassette tapes and player in good condition, take the following precautions: 1. Do not use cassette tapes longer than C-90; otherwise, sound quality and tape durability will be greatly dimin- ished. 2. Keep the cassette tape in its case to protect from slackness and dust when it is not in use. 3. Keep the cassette tape away from direct sunlight, heat and magnetic fields such as the radio speakers. 4. Before inserting a tape, make sure that the label is adhering flat to the cassette. 5. A loose tape should be corrected before use. To rewind a loose tape, insert the eraser end of a pencil into the tape drive gear and twist the pencil in the required directions.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 239


Maintain your cassette tape player. The head and capstan shaft in the cassette player can pick up dirt or tape deposits each time a cassette is played. The result of deposits on the capstan shaft may cause the tape to wrap around and become lodged in the tape transport. The other adverse condition is low or “muddy” sound from one or both channels, as if the treble tone control were turned all the way down. To prevent this, you should periodically clean the head with a commercially available WET cleaning cassette. As preventive maintenance, clean the head about every 30 hours of use. If you wait until the head becomes very dirty (noticeably poor sound), it may not be possible to remove all deposits with a simple WET cleaning cassette.


240 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


CD/DVD DISC MAINTENANCE To keep the CD/DVD discs in good condition, take the following precautions: 1. Handle the disc by its edge; avoid touching the surface. 2. If the disc is stained, clean the surface with a soft cloth, wiping from center to edge. 3. Do not apply paper, paper CD labels, or tape to the disc; avoid scratching the disc. 4. Do not use solvents such as benzine, thinner, cleaners, or antistatic sprays. 5. Store the disc in its case after playing. 6. Do not expose the disc to direct sunlight. 7. Do not store the disc where temperatures may become too high.


RADIO OPERATION AND CELLULAR PHONES Under certain conditions, the cellular phone being On in your vehicle can cause erratic or noisy performance from your radio. This condition may be lessened or eliminated by relocating the cellular phone antenna. This condition is not harmful to the radio. If your radio performance does not satisfactorily “clear” by the repositioning of the antenna, it is recommended that the radio volume be turned down or off during cellular phone operation.


CLIMATE CONTROLS The Air Conditioning and Heating System is designed to make you comfortable in all types of weather.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 241


second time the indicator light turns off, the blower will turn off and the system will be positioned in the recircu- lation mode. Blower Control


The Blower controls the amount of air delivered to the passenger compartment. There are four blower


speeds.


The fan speed increases as you move the control clockwise.


Manual Air Conditioning and Heating System


Manual Heating and A/C Controls


Power Button When the “POWER” button is pressed the indicator will illuminate and the blower will run at the speed selected by the front blower control. When the button is pressed a


242 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


Dual Zone Temperature Control — If Equipped With the Dual Zone Temperature Control System, each front seat occupant can independently control the tem- perature of air coming from the outlets on their side of the vehicle.


Mode Control


The mode control allows you to choose from several patterns of air distribution.


NOTE: To improve your selection choices, the system allows you to operate at intermediate positions between the major modes. These intermediate positions are iden- tified by the small dots.


DUAL ZONE TEMP CONTROL


This is accomplished by having a separate temperature control lever for both the driver and front seat passenger. The blue area of the scale indicates cooler temperatures while the red area indicates warmer temperatures.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 243


Air comes from the outlets in the instrument panel. Each of these outlets can be individually adjusted to direct the flow of air. Moving the air vane knob on the center outlets down, will close off the air flow from the center outlets. The thumbwheel next to the outboard outlets can be rotated to regulate or shut off the air flow from these outlets.


Panel Mode


Panel Outlets


244 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


Bi-Level Mode


Air comes from both the instrument panel outlets, floor outlets and defrost. A slight amount of air is also directed through the side window demister outlets. In many temperature lever positions, the bi- NOTE: level mode is designed to provide cooler air out of the panel outlets and warmer air from the floor outlets.


Bi-Level Outlets


Floor Mode


Mix Mode


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 245


Floor Outlets


Mix Outlets


Air comes from the floor outlets. A slight amount of air is directed through the defrost and side window demister outlets.


Air comes from the floor, defrost and side window demist outlets. This mode works best in cold or snowy conditions. It allows you to stay comfortable while keep- ing the windshield clear.


246 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


Defrost Mode


Defrost Outlets


Air comes from the windshield and side window demist outlets. Use this setting when necessary to defrost your windshield and side windows. NOTE: For improved safety, the compressor is activated and the recirculation mode is deactivated when Mix or


Defrost modes are selected. This is done to assist in drying the air and it will help in keeping the windows from fogging. Manual Air Conditioning Operation


To turn on the air conditioning, set the front blower control to any speed and press the A/C button which is located next to the recirculation button. An indicator light on the A/C button shows that the air conditioning is on. NOTE: The indicator light in the “POWER” button must be on for the climate control system to operate. Cool dehumidified air comes through the outlets selected by the Mode Control. To turn off the air conditioning, press the A/C button a second time. The indicator light will turn off.


been running for a few seconds.


NOTE: • The compressor will not engage until the engine has • If your air conditioning performance seems lower than expected, check the A/C air filter (ATC equipped vehicles only) and the front of the A/C condenser for an accumulation of dirt or insects. The A/C condenser is located in front of the radiator. The A/C air filter is located under the instrument panel on the passenger side. • Fabric type fascia protectors tend to block the amount of air to the condenser and may reduce air condition- ing performance.


Economy Mode If economy mode is desired, press the A/C button to turn off the indicator light, and the A/C compressor. Move the temperature control lever to the desired temperature.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 247


Recirculation Control


Press the recirculation button to recirculate the air inside the vehicle. This is located next to the A/C button. An indicator light on the button shows that air is being recirculated. Use the recirculation mode to rapidly cool the inside of the vehicle. The recirculation mode can also be used to temporarily block out outside odors, smoke, and dust. NOTE: • When the ignition switch is turned OFF, the recircula- • In cold weather, use of the Recirculation mode may lead to excessive window fogging. The Recirculation mode is not allowed in the Mix and Defrost modes to improve window clearing operation. Recirculation will be disabled automatically if these modes are selected.


tion feature will be cancelled.


248 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


• If the recirculation button is pressed while in the Mix or Defrost mode, the indicator light in the recirculation button will flash 3 times indicating that recirculation is not allowed.


A/C Recirculation Programming The recirculation control is programmed to cancel the recirculation mode when the ignition key is turned OFF and will reset to outside air mode when the ignition key is turned ON. The frequent use of outside air will help keep odors from building up within the air conditioner- heater housing. It is recommended that the recirculation mode be used as little as possible, especially in humid climates. For hot and dry climates, or people who are allergic to pollen and find frequent use of the recirculation mode necessary, the recirculation mode can be programmed to not automatically reset to the outside mode by using the following procedures:


• Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. • Set the mode control to “PANEL”. • Depress and hold in the “POWER” button. • Start the engine, and continue to hold in the “POWER” button until the indicator light starts flashing repeat- edly. • Press the recirculation button until the indicator light • The selection will be stored when the ignition switch is


remains lit.


turned OFF or if the “POWER” button is pressed.


If the recirculation indicator light is lit, the recirculation mode will not reset when the engine is started. If the recirculation indicator light is not lit, the recirculation mode will reset to the outside air mode when the engine is started. The programmed status can be changed back and forth by following the above mentioned procedure.


Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control The Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC) System automatically maintains the interior comfort level desired by the driver and front seat passenger. This is accomplished by using two infrared sensors located in the center of the instrument panel. The two infrared sensors independently measure the surface temperature of the driver and front seat passenger. Based on the sensor input, the system automatically adjusts the air temperature, the airflow volume, the airflow distribu- tion, and amount of inside air recirculation to maintain front seat occupant comfort, even under changing out- side weather conditions.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 249


Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control


To operate the system, press either the ⬙AUTO HI⬙ or ⬙AUTO LO⬙ buttons. The system now automatically regulates the heating and air conditioning system includ- ing blower speed, outlet air temperature, and airflow distribution through the various outlets within the in- strument panel. Using the ⬙TEMP⬙ buttons, adjust the


250 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


temperature you would like the system to maintain. When the system is set to your comfort level, it is not necessary to change the settings. You will experience the greatest efficiency by allowing the system to function automatically. The system will operate fully automati- cally in either ⬙AUTO HI⬙ or ⬙AUTO LO⬙. The ⬙AUTO LO⬙ setting will limit the maximum fan speed and should be used when more quiet operation is desired. Use the ⬙AUTO HI⬙ setting when the quickest cool-down or warm-up performance is desired. NOTE: • It is not necessary to move the temperature settings for cold or hot vehicles. The system automatically adjusts the temperature, mode and fan speed to provide comfort as quickly as possible. • The temperature can be displayed in U.S. or Metric by selecting the US/M customer programmable feature.


Refer to the “Electronic Vehicle Information Center- Customer Programmable Features” in Section 3 of this manual.


To provide you with maximum comfort in the automatic mode, during cold start-ups the blower fan will remain off and “DELAY” will appear in the display until the engine warms up. An estimate of the time remaining until the “DELAY” is complete will appear periodically in the display. However, the fan will engage immediately if the defrost mode is selected or by pushing the blower switch and manually adjusting the fan speed. This feature may be disabled using the following proce- dure: • Press and hold the Heated Rear Window and Auto LO • The “DELAY” symbol will flash to indicate that the


buttons for 5 seconds.


feature as been disabled.


This feature may be enabled using the following proce- dure: • Press and hold the Heated Rear Window and Auto HI • The “DELAY” symbol will flash to indicate that the


buttons for 5 seconds.


feature as been enabled.


Power Button This button turns the entire system ON/OFF. When the system is turned on it will return to the previous settings. Dual/Single Zone Operation When ⬙DUAL⬙ is displayed in the ATC control unit, the driver and passenger air outlet temperatures can be individually adjusted from the two independent ⬙TEMP⬙ buttons. When a front seat passenger is not present, pressing the ⬙DUAL⬙ button will match the passenger’s temperature setting to the driver’s temperature setting. This will help equalize air outlet temperatures across the


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 251


left and right side of the instrument panel. The outside temperature will replace the passenger’s temperature setting in the display. Pressing the ⬙DUAL⬙ button a second time or adjusting the passenger’s ⬙TEMP⬙ button will return the system to dual independent temperature operation. Manual Operation This system offers a full complement of manual override features. The indicator light in both the ⬙AUTO HI⬙ or ⬙AUTO LO⬙ buttons will turn off when the system is being used in the manual mode. The fan speed, airflow distribution, and outside air/recirculated air can be manually adjusted. NOTE: Each of these features operate independently from each other. If any one feature is controlled manually, the remaining features will continue to operate automati- cally.


252 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


The front blower control can be set to any fixed blower speed by pressing the rocker switch up or down. This allows the front occupants to control the volume of air circulated in the vehicle and cancel the auto mode. The fan will now operate at a fixed speed until additional speeds are selected or until either the ⬙AUTO HI⬙ or ⬙AUTO LO⬙ buttons are pressed. The system will continue to automatically adjust air temperature and airflow distribution. The operator can also select the direction of the air by pressing the mode control rocker switch located to the left of the A/C button and selecting one of the following positions.


Panel Mode


Panel Outlets


Air comes from the outlets in the instrument panel. Each of these outlets can be individually adjusted to direct the flow of air. Moving the knob up, down, left, or right will direct the air accordingly. The thumbwheel next to each outlet can be rotated to reduce or shut off the air flow from these outlets.


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 253


Air comes from both the instrument panel outlets and floor outlets. A slight amount of air is also directed through the defrost and side window demister outlets. In many temperature positions, the bi-level NOTE: mode is designed to provide cooler air out of the panel outlets and warmer air from the floor outlets.


Bi-Level Mode


Bi-Level Outlets


254 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


Floor Mode


Mix Mode


Floor Outlets


Mix Outlets


Air comes from the floor outlets. A slight amount of air is directed through the defrost and side window demister outlets.


Air comes from the floor, defrost and side window demist outlets. This mode is not used when operating in either ⬙AUTO HI⬙ or ⬙AUTO LO⬙. This mode should be used when airflow to the floor and windshield is desired.


Defrost Mode


Defrost Outlets


Air comes from the windshield and side window demist outlets. Use this setting when necessary to defrost your windshield and side windows. If a fog or mist on the


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 255


windshield or side glass starts to impair visibility, press the front blower button and increase the fan speed to maximum. NOTE: While operating in ⬙AUTO HI⬙ or ⬙AUTO LO⬙, the system will not automatically sense the presence fog, mist, or ice on the windshield. The defrost button must be pressed to clear the windshield and side glass.


Depress the “A/C” button to turn on and off the air conditioning during manual operation only. Cool dehumidified air comes through the outlets selected by the Mode Control. To turn off the air condi- tioning, press the A/C button a second time. The A/C symbol in the display will turn off. If a fog or mist appears on the windshield or NOTE: side glass, press the “A/C” button to engage the com- pressor or press the defrost button. If a fog or mist on the


256 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


windshield or side glass starts to impair visibility, press the front blower button and increase the fan speed to maximum. Recirculation Control


When the outside air contains smoke, odors, high humidity, or if rapid cooling is desired you may wish to recirculate interior air by pressing the recirculation button. The recircu- lation mode should only be used temporarily. The recir- culate symbol will illuminate in the display when this button is selected. Push the button a second time to allow outside air into the vehicle. In cold weather, use of the recirculation mode NOTE: may lead to excessive window fogging. The recirculation mode is not allowed in the Mix and Defrost modes to improve window clearing operation. Recirculation will be disabled automatically if these modes are selected.


A/C Recirculation Programming The recirculation control is programmed to cancel the recirculation mode when the ignition key is turned OFF and will reset to the outside air mode when the ignition key is turned “ON”. The frequent use of outside air will help keep odors from building up within the air conditioner-heater housing. It is recommended that the recirculation mode be used as little as possible, especially in humid climates. For hot and dry climates, or people who are allergic to pollen and find frequent use of the recirculation mode necessary, the recirculation mode can be programmed to not automatically reset to the outside mode by using the following procedures: • Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. • Press and hold the recirculation button.


• While holding the recirculation button, turn the igni- • Continue holding the recirculation button for 4 sec-


tion switch to the “RUN” position.


onds, then release.


The recirculation control is now programmed so that the recirculation mode will not reset to the outside air mode when the engine is restarted. The recirculation program- ming can be changed back by repeating this procedure. Rear Blower Operation To operate the rear fan, press the ⬙REAR⬙ button. The first time this button is pressed the ⬙REAR AUTO⬙ display will illuminate indicating that the rear fan speed is automatically controlled. To manually control the rear fan speed, press the ⬙REAR⬙ button again and only ⬙REAR⬙ will illuminate in the display. This allows the rear seat occupants to control the rear fan speed using the


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 257


switch located in the center console between the second row seats. By pressing the ⬙REAR⬙ button a third time, the rear fan will shut off. When the ATC display reads ⬙REAR AUTO⬙ or when the rear fan is off, the switch located in the center console between the second row seats is not functional. When the ATC display reads ⬙REAR⬙, only the rear seat occupants can control the rear fan speed from the rear switch. When in the “REAR” mode, the rear occupants can set the rear switch to any fan speed including ⬙OFF⬙, or ⬙AUTO⬙. While in the ⬙AUTO⬙ position, the rear fan speed will be automatically controlled. Summer Operation The engine cooling system in air conditioned vehicles must be protected with a high-quality antifreeze coolant to provide proper corrosion protection and to protect against engine overheating. A 50% solution of ethylene


258 UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL


glycol antifreeze coolant in water is recommended. Refer to section 7, Maintenance Procedures, of this manual for proper coolant selection. Winter Operation To insure the best possible heater and defroster perfor- mance, make sure the engine cooling system is function- ing properly and the proper amount, type, and concen- tration of coolant is used. Refer to section 7, Maintenance Procedures, of this manual for proper coolant selection. Use of the air Recirculation mode during winter months is not recommended because it may cause window fogging. Vacation Storage Anytime you store your vehicle, or keep it out of service (i.e. vacation) for two weeks or more, run the air condi- tioning system at idle for about five minutes in the fresh air and high blower setting. This will insure adequate


system lubrication to minimize the possibility of com- pressor damage when the system is started again. Window Fogging Vehicle windows tend to fog on the inside in mild rainy or humid weather. To clear the windows, use the A/C button to reduce the humidity inside the vehicle. Fogging on the inside of the windshield can be quickly removed by pressing the defrost button and increasing the blower speed. Do not use the Recirculation mode without the A/C button for long periods as fogging may occur. Outside Air Intake Before driving, always make sure the air intake located directly in front of the windshield is free of obstructions such as leaves, ice, or snow, which could reduce airflow and/or plug the water drain tube inside the plenum.


A/C Air Filter — If Equipped On vehicles equipped with Automatic Temperature Con- trol (ATC), the climate control system filters out dust and pollen from the air. Refer to section 7 “Air Conditioning” for filter replacement instructions. Outside Temperature Display The outside temperature can be shown in the ATC display by pressing the ⬙OUTSIDE TEMP⬙ button. After pressing this button, the front seat passenger’s tempera- ture setting display will be replaced with the current outside temperature. Press the ⬙OUTSIDE TEMP⬙ button again or press the passenger’s ⬙TEMP⬙ button to return the display to the passenger’s temperature setting. Electric Rear Window Defroster


Press this button to turn on the rear window defroster and the heated side mirrors. A light in


UNDERSTANDING YOUR INSTRUMENT PANEL 259


the button will illuminate to indicate the rear window defroster is ON. The defroster automatically turns off after about 10 minutes of operation.


CAUTION!


To avoid damaging the electrical conductors of the rear window defroster, do not use scrapers, sharp instruments, or abrasive window cleaners on the interior surface of the window. Labels can be peeled off after soaking with warm water.


STARTING AND OPERATING


CONTENTS


䡵 Starting Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
▫ Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
▫ Normal Starting (Above 32°F / 0°C) . . . . . . . . 267
▫ Extremely Cold Weather Starting


. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267


(Below ⫺20°F / –29°C) ▫ High Altitude Starting


(Above 4,000 Ft. / 1 219 m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
▫ If Engine Fails To Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
▫ After Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
䡵 Engine Block Heater — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . 270


䡵 Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 270
▫ Brake/Transmission Interlock System . . . . . . . 271
▫ Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock


System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271
▫ Four Speed Automatic Transmission . . . . . . . . 271
䡵 AutoStick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
▫ AutoStick Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
▫ AutoStick General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
䡵 All Wheel Drive — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . 276


262 STARTING AND OPERATING


䡵 Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276
䡵 Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
▫ Anti-Lock Brake System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
䡵 Electronic Stability Program (ESP) . . . . . . . . . . . 281
▫ ESP Has The Following Operating Modes . . . . 283
▫ ESP/BAS Warning Lamp And


ESP/TCS Indicator Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 283
▫ Brake Assist System (BAS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284
䡵 Traction Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285
䡵 Power Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
䡵 Driving On Slippery Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
▫ Acceleration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287
▫ Traction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288


䡵 Tire Safety Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
▫ Tire Markings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
▫ Tire Identification Number (TIN) . . . . . . . . . . 292
▫ Tire Loading And Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . 293
䡵 Tires — General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
▫ Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
▫ Tire Inflation Pressures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
▫ Radial-Ply Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 300
▫ Compact Spare Tire — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . 301
▫ Limited Use Spare — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . 302
▫ Tire Spinning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
▫ Tread Wear Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
▫ Life Of Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304


▫ Replacement Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304
▫ Alignment And Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305
䡵 Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
䡵 Snow Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307
䡵 Tire Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307
䡵 Tire Pressure Monitor System — If Equipped . . . 308


▫ Tire Pressure Monitoring Base System Without Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309


▫ Tire Pressure Monitoring Low Pressure


Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310


▫ Base Tire Pressure Monitoring System With


Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) — If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310
▫ Service Tire System Soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312


STARTING AND OPERATING 263


▫ Using Your Compact Spare —


Basic Tire Pressure Monitoring System Only . . 313


▫ Tire Pressure Monitoring Premium System –


If Equipped . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314


▫ Tire Pressure Monitoring Low Pressure


Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314
▫ Service Tire System Soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
▫ General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
䡵 Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318
▫ Reformulated Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318
▫ Gasoline/Oxygenate Blends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 319
▫ MMT In Gasoline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 319
▫ Materials Added To Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320
▫ Fuel System Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320


264 STARTING AND OPERATING


䡵 Adding Fuel


䡵 Flexible Fuel— (Fleet Vehicles Only)


▫ Carbon Monoxide Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
▫ Fuel Filler Cap (Gas Cap) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321
▫ Loose Fuel Filler Cap Message . . . . . . . . . . . . 323
. . . . . . . . . 324
▫ E-85 General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
▫ Ethanol Fuel (E-85) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
▫ Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324
▫ Selection Of Engine Oil For Flexible Fuel


Vehicles (E-85) And Gasoline Vehicles . . . . . . . 325
▫ Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325
▫ Cruising Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
▫ Replacement Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326


▫ Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
䡵 Vehicle Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
▫ Vehicle Certification Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
▫ Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) . . . . . . . 327
▫ Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) . . . . . . . . . 327
▫ Overloading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
▫ Loading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
䡵 Trailer Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
▫ Common Towing Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330
▫ Trailer Hitch Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333
▫ Trailer Towing Weights


(Maximum Trailer Weight Ratings) . . . . . . . . . 334
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 335


▫ Trailer And Tongue Weight


▫ Towing Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 336
▫ Towing Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 340
䡵 Recreational Towing (Behind Motorhome, Etc.) . . 342


STARTING AND OPERATING 265


▫ Towing This Vehicle Behind Another Vehicle (Flat Towing With All Four Wheels On The Ground) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342


266 STARTING AND OPERATING


STARTING PROCEDURES Before starting your vehicle, adjust your seat, adjust both inside and outside mirrors, and fasten your seat belts.


WARNING!


• Be sure to turn off the engine if you want to rest or sleep in your car. Accidents can be caused by inadvertently moving the gear selection lever or by pressing the accelerator pedal. This may cause ex- cessive heat in the exhaust system, resulting in overheating and vehicle fire which may cause seri- ous or fatal injuries. • NEVER leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the keys in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle • Do not leave children or animals inside parked vehicles in hot weather. Interior heat build up may cause serious injury or death.


Automatic Transmission The gear selector must be in the NEUTRAL or PARK position before you can start the engine. Depress the brake pedal before shifting into any driving gear. Normal Starting (Above 32°F / 0°C)


1. Do not depress the accelerator. 2. Turn and hold the ignition key in the START position and release when engine starts. 3. If engine does not start after 3 seconds, depress the accelerator lightly (while still cranking the engine). 4. If engine does not start after 15 seconds, turn the ignition key off. 5. Wait 10 to 15 seconds, and repeat steps 1 — 5 shown above.


STARTING AND OPERATING 267


NOTE: This vehicle is equipped with a transmission shift interlocking system. The brake pedal must be depressed to shift out of Park (P). Extremely Cold Weather Starting (Below ⫺20°F / –29°C) Follow the same instructions in the “Normal Starting Process” as shown above. To insure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of an externally powered electric engine block heater (available from your dealer) is recommended. High Altitude Starting (Above 4,000 ft. / 1 219 m) Follow the same instructions in the “Normal Starting Process” as shown above. To insure reliable starting at these temperatures, use of an externally powered electric engine block heater (available from your dealer) is recommended.


268 STARTING AND OPERATING


If Engine Fails To Start If the engine fails to start after you have followed the normal starting procedure, it may be flooded. Push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and hold it there while cranking the engine. This should clear any excess fuel in case the engine is flooded.


CAUTION!


To prevent damage to the starter, do not crank the engine for more than 15 seconds at a time. Wait 10 to 15 seconds before trying again.


WARNING!


Never pour fuel or other flammable liquid into the throttle body air inlet opening in an attempt to start the vehicle. This could result in flash fire causing serious personal injury.


WARNING!


Do not attempt to push or tow your vehicle to get it started. Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans- mission cannot be started this way. Unburned fuel could enter the catalytic converter and once the engine has started, ignite and damage the converter and vehicle. If the vehicle has a discharged battery, booster cables may be used to obtain a start from a booster battery or the battery in another vehicle. This type of start can be dangerous if done improperly. See section 6 of this manual for the proper jump starting procedures and follow them carefully.


STARTING AND OPERATING 269


If the engine has been flooded, it may start to run, but not have enough power to continue running when the key is released. If this occurs, continue cranking with the accel- erator pedal pushed all the way to the floor. Release the accelerator pedal and the key once the engine is running smoothly. If the engine shows no sign of starting after two 15
second periods of cranking with the accelerator pedal held to the floor, the normal starting procedure should be repeated. After Starting The idle speed will automatically decrease as the engine warms up.


270 STARTING AND OPERATING


ENGINE BLOCK HEATER — IF EQUIPPED The engine block heater warms engine coolant and permits quicker starts in cold weather. Connect the cord to a standard 110-115 volt AC electrical outlet with a grounded, three-wire extension cord. The engine block heater cord is routed under the hood on the driver side of the vehicle. It has a removable cap that is located on the driver side of the Integrated Power Module.


WARNING!


Remember to disconnect the cord before driving. Damage to the 110-115 volt electrical cord could cause electrocution.


AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION


CAUTION!


a complete stop.


Damage to the transmission may occur if the follow- ing precautions are not observed: • Shift into PARK only after the vehicle has come to • Shift into or out of REVERSE only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop and the engine is at idle speed. • Do not shift from REVERSE, PARK, or NEUTRAL into any forward gear when the engine is above idle speed. • Before shifting into any gear, make sure your foot


is firmly on the brake pedal.


WARNING!


It is dangerous to shift the selector lever out of “P” or “N” if the engine speed is higher than idle speed. If your foot is not firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could accelerate quickly forward or in re- verse. You could lose control of the vehicle and hit someone or something. Only shift into gear when the engine is idling normally and when your right foot is firmly on the brake pedal.


Brake/Transmission Interlock System This system prevents you from moving the gear shift out of PARK and into any gear unless the brake pedal is pressed. This system is active only while the ignition switch is in the ACCESSORY or ON position. Always depress the brake pedal first, before moving the gear selector out of PARK.


STARTING AND OPERATING 271


Automatic Transmission Ignition Interlock System This system prevents the key from being removed unless the shift lever is in PARK. It also prevents shifting out of PARK unless the key is in the ACCESSORY or ON position. If a malfunction occurs, the system will trap the NOTE: key in the ignition cylinder to warn you that this safety feature is inoperable. The engine can be started and stopped but the key cannot be removed until you obtain service. Four Speed Automatic Transmission The electronically controlled transmission provides a precise shift schedule. The transmission electronics are self-calibrating; therefore, the first few shifts on a new vehicle, may be somewhat abrupt. This is a normal condition, and precision shifts will develop within a few hundred miles.


272 STARTING AND OPERATING


Reset Mode - Electronic Transmission The transmission is monitored electronically for abnor- mal conditions. If a condition is detected that could cause damage, the transmission automatically shifts into sec- ond gear. The transmission remains in second gear despite the forward gear selected. Park (P), Reverse (R), and Neutral (N) will continue to operate. This Reset feature allows the vehicle to be driven to a dealer for service without damaging the transmission. In the event that the problem has been momentary, the transmission can be reset to regain all forward gears. • Stop the vehicle and shift into Park (P). • Turn the key to OFF then restart the engine. • Shift into the desired range and resume driving.


NOTE: Even if the transmission can be reset, it is recommended that you visit a dealer at your earliest possible convenience. Your dealer has diagnostic equip- ment to determine if the problem could recur. If the transmission cannot be reset, dealer service is required. Gear Ranges DO NOT race the engine when shifting from PARK or NEUTRAL positions into another gear range. “P” Park Supplements the parking brake by locking the transmis- sion. The engine can be started in this range. Never attempt to use PARK while vehicle is in motion. Apply parking brake when leaving vehicle in this range.


WARNING!


Never use Park position on an automatic transmis- sion as a substitute for the parking brake. Always apply parking brake fully when parked to guard against vehicle movement and possible injury or damage.


For electrical system malfunctions there is an override for the interlock system. In order to override this system the key must be in the ignition with the switch in the ACC or ON positions. Pull up and rearward on the shifter bezel ring. The override can be activated by pressing the pink- colored tab, which can be accessed through the lower right corner of the shifter bezel ring. While the override is


STARTING AND OPERATING 273


pressed, the shifter can be moved out of the park position without pressing the brake. After operation return the shifter bezel ring to its original position.


Brake Interlock Override


“R” Reverse Shift into this range only after the vehicle has come to a complete stop.


274 STARTING AND OPERATING


“N” Neutral Engine may be started in this range. “D” Overdrive To be used for most city and highway driving, it provides smoothest upshifts and downshifts and best fuel economy. When frequent transmission shifting occurs while using the “D” Overdrive position, such as when operating the vehicle under heavy loading conditions, (i.e. in hilly terrain, traveling into strong head winds or while towing heavy trailers), use the AutoStick mode and select the “3” range. NOTE: Using the “3” range in the AutoStick mode while operating the vehicle under heavy operating con- ditions will improve performance and extend transmis- sion life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up.


AUTOSTICK AutoStick is a driver-interactive transmission that offers manual gear shifting capability to provide you with more control. AutoStick allows you to maximize engine brak- ing, eliminate undesirable upshifts and downshifts, and improve overall vehicle performance. This system can also provide you with more control during passing, city driving, cold slippery conditions, mountain driving, trailer towing, and many other situations. AutoStick Operation The AutoStick position is just below the Overdrive posi- tion and is identified by the word “AUTOSTICK”. When you place the shift lever in the AutoStick position, it can be moved from side to side. Moving the lever to the left (-) triggers a downshift and to the right (+) an upshift. The gear position will be shown in the transmission gear display, located in the instrument cluster.


You can shift in or out of the AutoStick mode at any time without taking your foot off the accelerator pedal. If you choose the Overdrive mode, the transmission will oper- ate automatically; shifting between the four available gears. When you wish to engage AutoStick, simply move the shift lever to the AUTOSTICK position. The transmis- sion will remain in the current gear until an upshift or downshift is chosen. Move the lever back to the Overdrive position to shift out of the AutoStick mode. AutoStick General Information • The transmission will automatically upshift from first to second gear and from second to third gear when engine speed reaches about 6300 RPM. • Downshifts from third to second gear above 74 mph (119 km/h) and from second to first gear above 41
mph (66 km/h) will be ignored.


STARTING AND OPERATING 275


• You can start out in first, second, or third gear. Shifting into fourth gear can occur only after vehicle speed reaches 15 mph (24 km/h). • The transmission will automatically downshift to first • Starting out in third gear is helpful in snowy or icy • While in the AutoStick mode, Speed Control will only


gear when coming to a stop.


conditions.


function in third or fourth gear. Downshifting out of third gear will turn off the speed control.


• If the system detects powertrain overheating,


the transmission will revert to the automatic shift mode and remain in that mode until the powertrain cools off.


276 STARTING AND OPERATING


• If the system detects a problem it will disable the AutoStick mode and the transmission will return to the automatic mode until the problem is corrected.


ALL WHEEL DRIVE — IF EQUIPPED This feature provides full time, on-demand, All Wheel Drive (AWD). The system is automatic with no driver inputs or additional driving skills required. Under nor- mal driving conditions, the front wheels provide most of the traction. If the front wheels begin to lose traction, power is shifted automatically to the rear wheels. The greater the front wheel traction loss, the greater the power transfer to the rear wheels.


CAUTION!


All wheels must have the same size and type tires. Unequal tire sizes must not be used. Unequal tire size may cause failure of the power transfer unit.


PARKING BRAKE When the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch on, the brake light in the instrument cluster will turn on. NOTE: This light only shows that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.


Before leaving the vehicle, make sure that the parking brake is fully applied and place the gear selector in the Park position. To release the parking brake, pull out on the parking brake release located on the left side of the instrument panel.


STARTING AND OPERATING 277


When parking on a hill, it is important to set the parking brake before placing the gear selector in Park, otherwise the load on the transmission locking mechanism may make it difficult to move the selector out of park. As an added precaution, turn the front wheels toward the curb on a downhill grade and away from the curb on a uphill grade. The parking brake should always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.


Parking Brake Release


278 STARTING AND OPERATING


WARNING!


• Always fully apply the parking brake when leav- ing your vehicle, or it may roll and cause damage or injury. Also be certain to leave an automatic transmission in Park, a manual transmission in Reverse or first gear. Failure to do so may allow the vehicle to roll and cause damage or injury. • NEVER leave children alone in a vehicle. Leaving children in a vehicle unattended is dangerous for a number of reasons. A child or others could be seriously or fatally injured. Don’t leave the keys in the ignition. A child could operate power windows, other controls, or move the vehicle • Be sure the parking brake is fully disengaged before driving, failure to do so can lead to brake problems due to excessive heating of the rear brakes.


BRAKE SYSTEM In the event power assist is lost for any reason (for example, repeated brake applications with the engine off), the brakes will still function. The effort required to brake the vehicle will be much greater than that required with the power system operating.


Your vehicle is equipped with dual hydraulic brake systems. If either of the two hydraulic systems lose normal capability, the remaining system will still function. There will be some loss of overall braking effectiveness. This may be evident by increased pedal travel during application, greater pedal force required to slow or stop, and potential activation of the Brake Warning Lamp.


Anti-Lock Brake System The Anti-Lock Brake System provides increased vehicle stability and brake performance under most braking conditions. The system automatically “pumps” the brakes during severe braking conditions to prevent wheel lock-up.


WARNING!


Pumping of the Anti-Lock Brakes will diminish their effectiveness and may lead to an accident. Pumping makes the stopping distance longer. Just press firmly on your brake pedal when you need to slow down or stop.


STARTING AND OPERATING 279


WARNING!


• Anti-lock system (ABS) cannot prevent the natu- ral laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase braking or steering efficiency be- yond that afforded by the condition of the vehicle brakes and tires or the traction afforded.


• The ABS cannot prevent accidents,


including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, following another vehicle too closely, or hydro- planing. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. • The capabilities of an ABS equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopardize the user’s safety or the safety of others.


280 STARTING AND OPERATING


The ABS light monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System. The light will come on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as four seconds. If the ABS light remains on or comes on while driving, it indicates that the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required. However, the conventional brake system will continue to operate normally if the BRAKE warning light is not on. If the ABS light is on, the brake system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the benefits of Anti-Lock brakes. If the ABS light does not come on when the Ignition switch is turned to the ON position, have the bulb repaired as soon as possible. If both the Brake Warning Light and the ABS Light remain on, the Anti-Lock brakes (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) systems are not function- ing. Immediate repair to the ABS system is required.


When the vehicle is driven over 7 mph (11 km/h), you may also hear a slight clicking sound as well as some related motor noises. These noises are the system per- forming its self check cycle to ensure that the ABS system is working properly. This self check occurs each time the vehicle is started and accelerated past 7 mph (11 km/h). ABS is activated during braking under certain road or stopping conditions. ABS-inducing conditions can in- clude ice, snow, gravel, bumps, railroad tracks, loose debris, or panic stops. You also may experience the following when the brake system goes into Anti-lock: • The ABS motor running (it may continue to run for a • the clicking sound of solenoid valves, • brake pedal pulsations,


short time after the stop),


• and a slight drop or fall away of the brake pedal at the


end of the stop.


These are all normal characteristics of ABS.


WARNING!


The Anti-Lock Brake System contains sophisticated electronic equipment that may be susceptible to interference caused by improperly installed or high output radio transmitting equipment. This interfer- ence can cause possible loss of anti-lock braking capability. Installation of such equipment should be performed by qualified professionals.


All vehicle wheels and tires must be the same size and type and tires must be properly inflated to produce accurate signals for the computer.


STARTING AND OPERATING 281


ELECTRONIC STABILITY PROGRAM (ESP) Your vehicle is equipped with an advanced electronic brake control system that includes ABS (Anti-Lock Brake System), TCS (Traction Control System), BAS (Brake Assist System), ERM (Electronic Roll Mitigation) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program). All systems work together to enhance vehicle stability and control in various driving conditions and are commonly referred to as ESP. The ESP system enhances directional control and stabil- ity of the vehicle under various driving conditions. ESP corrects for over/under steering of the vehicle by apply- ing the brake of the appropriate wheel to assist in counteracting the over/under steer condition. Engine power may also be reduced to help the vehicle maintain the desired path. ESP uses sensors in the vehicle to determine the vehicle path intended by the driver and compares it to the actual path of the vehicle. When the actual path does not match the intended path, ESP


282 STARTING AND OPERATING


applies the brake of the appropriate wheel to assist in counteracting the Over-steer or Under-steer condition. • Over-steer: when the vehicle is turning more than • Under-steer: when the vehicle is turning less than


appropriate for the steering wheel position.


appropriate for the steering wheel position.


The “ESP/TCS Indicator Light” located in the instrument cluster, starts to flash as soon as the tires lose traction and the ESP system becomes active. The “ESP/TCS Indicator Light” also flashes when TCS is active. If the “ESP/TCS Indicator Light” begins to flash during acceleration, ease up on the accelerator and apply as little throttle as possible. Be sure to adapt your speed and driving to the prevailing road conditions.


WARNING!


Electronic Stability Program (ESP) cannot prevent the natural laws of physics from acting on the vehicle, nor can it increase the traction afforded by prevailing road conditions. ESP cannot prevent acci- dents, including those resulting from excessive speed in turns, driving on very slippery surfaces, or hydroplaning. Only a safe, attentive, and skillful driver can prevent accidents. The capabilities of an ESP-equipped vehicle must never be exploited in a reckless or dangerous manner which could jeopar- dize the user’s safety or the safety of others.


ESP has the following operating modes: • ESP On This is the normal operating mode for ESP. Whenever the vehicle is started the ESP system will be in this mode. This mode should be used for almost all driving situations. ESP should only be turned to “Partial Off” for specific reasons as noted below. • Partial Off This mode is entered by momentarily depressing the “ESP Control Switch”. When in “Partial Off” mode, the TCS portion of ESP, except for the “limited slip” feature described in the TCS section, has been disabled and the “ESP/TCS Indicator Light” will be illuminated. All other stability features of ESP function normally, with the exception of engine power reduction. This mode is intended to be used if the vehicle is in deep snow, sand or gravel conditions and more wheel spin than ESP would normally allow is


STARTING AND OPERATING 283


required to gain traction. To turn ESP on again, mo- mentarily depress the “ESP Control Switch”. This will restore the normal “ESP On” mode of operation.


NOTE: To improve the vehicle’s traction when driving with snow chains, or starting off in deep snow, sand or gravel, it may be desirable to switch to the “Partial Off” mode by pressing the ESP switch. Once the situation requiring ESP to be switched to the “Partial Off” mode is overcome, turn ESP back on by momentarily depressing the “ESP Control Switch”. This may be done while the vehicle is in motion. ESP/BAS Warning Lamp and ESP/TCS Indicator Light The malfunction indicator for the ESP is combined with the BAS indicator. The yellow “ESP/BAS Warning Lamp” and the yellow “ESP/TCS Indicator Light” in the instrument cluster both come on when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. They should both


284 STARTING AND OPERATING


go out with the engine running. If the “ESP/BAS Warn- ing Lamp” comes on continuously with the engine running, a malfunction has been detected in either the ESP or BAS system, or both. If this light remains on after several ignition cycles, and the vehicle has been driven several miles at speeds greater than 30 mph (48 km/h), see your authorized dealer as soon as possible to have the problem diagnosed and corrected. NOTE: • The “ESP Indicator Light” and the “ESP/BAS Warning Lamp” come on momentarily each time the ignition switch is turned ON. • Each time the ignition is turned ON, the ESP System • The ESP Control System will make buzzing or clicking sounds when it is active. This is normal; the sounds will stop when ESP becomes inactive following the maneuver that caused the ESP activation.


will be ON even if it was turned off previously.


Brake Assist System (BAS) The BAS is designed to optimize the vehicle’s braking capability during emergency braking maneuvers. The system detects an emergency braking situation by sens- ing the rate and amount of brake application and then applies optimum pressure to the brakes. This can help reduce braking distances. The BAS complements the Anti-lock Brake System (ABS). Applying the brakes very quickly results in the best BAS assistance. To receive the benefit of the system, you must apply continuous brak- ing pressure during the stopping sequence. Do not reduce brake pedal pressure unless braking is no longer desired. Once the brake pedal is released, the BAS is deactivated.


TRACTION CONTROL


This system monitors the amount of wheel spin of each of the driven wheels. If wheel spin is detected, brake pressure is applied to the slipping wheel(s) and engine power is reduced to provide enhanced acceleration and stability. A feature of the TCS system functions similar to a limited slip differential and controls the wheel spin across a driven axle. If one wheel on a driven axle is spinning faster than the other, the system will apply the brake of the spinning wheel. This will allow more engine torque to be applied to the wheel that is not spinning. This feature remains active even if TCS and ESP is in the “Partial Off” mode. The Traction Control System reduces wheel slip and maintains traction at the driving (front) wheels. The system reduces wheel slip by engaging the brake on the wheel that is losing traction (spinning). The system will operate at speeds below 35 mph (56 km/h).


STARTING AND OPERATING 285


The system is always in the “stand by” mode unless, • The ESP “OFF” Switch has been used to turn the


system OFF


• There is a Traction Control System malfunction


Traction Control Switch


286 STARTING AND OPERATING


clicking sounds when in operation.


• The system has been deactivated to prevent damage to the brake system due to overheated brake tempera- tures NOTE: • The Traction Control system will make buzzing or • Extended heavy use of Traction Control may cause the system to deactivate and turn on the traction control indicator located in the instrument cluster. This is to prevent overheating of the brake system and is a normal condition. The system will remain disabled for about 4 minutes until the brakes have cooled. The system will automatically reactivate and turn off the traction control indicator. • If your vehicle becomes stuck in mud, ice, or snow, turn the Traction Control System OFF before at- tempting to “rock” the vehicle free.


POWER STEERING The standard power steering system will give you good vehicle response and increased ease of maneuverability in tight spaces. The system will provide mechanical steering capability if power assist is lost. If for some reason the power assist is interrupted, it will still be possible to steer your vehicle. Under these condi- tions, you will observe a substantial increase in steering effort, especially at very low vehicle speeds and during parking maneuvers. Increased noise levels at the end of the steering NOTE: wheel travel are considered normal and do not indicate that there is a problem with the power steering system. Upon initial start-up in cold weather, the power steering pump may make noise for a short amount of time. This is due to the cold, thick fluid in the steering system. This noise should be considered normal, and does not in any way damage the steering system.


WARNING!


Continued operation with reduced power steering assist could pose a safety risk to yourself and others. Service should be obtained as soon as possible.


CAUTION!


Prolonged operation of the steering system at the end of the steering wheel travel will increase the steering fluid temperature and it should be avoided when possible. Damage to the power steering pump may occur.


STARTING AND OPERATING 287


DRIVING ON SLIPPERY SURFACES


Acceleration Rapid acceleration on snow covered, wet, or other slip- pery surfaces may cause the front wheels to pull errati- cally to the right or left. This phenomenon occurs when there is a difference in the surface traction under the front (driving) wheels.


WARNING!


Rapid acceleration on slippery surfaces is danger- ous. Unequal traction can cause sudden pulling of the front wheels. You could lose control of the vehicle and possibly have an accident. Accelerate slowly and carefully whenever there is likely to be poor traction (ice, snow, wet mud, loose sand, etc.).


288 STARTING AND OPERATING


Traction When driving on wet or slushy roads, it is possible for a wedge of water to build up between the tire and road surface. This is known as hydroplaning and may cause partial or complete loss of vehicle control and stopping ability. To reduce this possibility, the following precau- tions should be observed: 1. Slow down during rainstorms or when roads are slushy. 2. Slow down if road has standing water or puddles. 3. Replace tires when tread wear indicators first become visible. 4. Keep tires properly inflated. 5. Maintain sufficient distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front to avoid a collision in a sudden stop.


TIRE SAFETY INFORMATION


Tire Markings


NOTE: • P (Passenger)-Metric tire sizing is based on U.S. design standards. P-Metric tires have the letter “P” molded into the sidewall preceding the size designation. Ex- ample: P215/65R15 95H.


• European Metric tire sizing is based on European design standards. Tires designed to this standard have the tire size molded into the sidewall beginning with the section width. The letter ⬙P⬙ is absent from this tire size designation. Example: 215/65R15 96H • LT (Light Truck)-Metric tire sizing is based on U.S. design standards. The size designation for LT-Metric tires is the same as for P-Metric tires except for the letters “LT” that are molded into the sidewall preced- ing the size designation. Example: LT235/85R16.


STARTING AND OPERATING 289


• Temporary Spare tires are high-pressure compact spares designed for temporary emergency use only. Tires designed to this standard have the letter “T” molded into the sidewall preceding the size designa- tion. Example: T145/80D18 103M. • High Flotation tire sizing is based on U.S. design standards and it begins with the tire diameter molded into the sidewall. Example: 31x10.5 R15 LT.


290 STARTING AND OPERATING


Tire Sizing Chart


Size Designation:


EXAMPLE:


P = Passenger car tire size based on U.S. design standards ⴖ....blank....ⴖ = Passenger car tire based on European design standards LT = Light Truck tire based on U.S. design standards T = Temporary Spare tire 31 = Overall Diameter in Inches (in) 215 = Section Width in Millimeters (mm) 65 = Aspect Ratio in Percent (%)


—Ratio of section height to section width of tire.


10.5 = Section Width in Inches (in) R = Construction Code


—⬙R⬙ means Radial Construction. —⬙D⬙ means Diagonal or Bias Construction.


15 = Rim Diameter in Inches (in)


STARTING AND OPERATING 291


Service Description:


95 = Load Index


EXAMPLE:


—A numerical code associated with the maximum load a tire can carry.


H = Speed Symbol


—A symbol indicating the range of speeds at which a tire can carry a load corresponding to its load index under certain operating conditions. —The maximum speed corresponding to the Speed Symbol should only be achieved un- der specified operating conditions. (i.e. tire pressure, vehicle loading, road conditions, and posted speed limits).


Load Identification:


ⴖ....blank....ⴖ = Absence of any text on sidewall of the tire indicates a Standard Load (SL) Tire Extra Load (XL) = Extra Load (or Reinforced) Tire Light Load = Light Load Tire C,D,E = Load range associated with the maximum load a tire can carry at a specified pressure


Maximum Load — Maximum Load indicates the maximum load this tire is designed to carry. Maximum Pressure — Maximum Pressure indicates the maximum permissible cold tire inflation pressure for this tire.


292 STARTING AND OPERATING


Tire Identification Number (TIN) The TIN may be found on one or both sides of the tire; however, the date code may only be on one side. Tires with white sidewalls will have the full TIN including date code


located on the white sidewall side of the tire. Look for the TIN on the outboard side of black sidewall tires as mounted on the vehicle. If the TIN is not found on the outboard side then you will find it on the inboard side of the tire.


EXAMPLE:


DOT MA L9 ABCD 0301


DOT = Department of Transportation


—This symbol certifies that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation tire safety standards, and is approved for highway use.


MA = Code representing the tire manufacturing location. (2 digits) L9 = Code representing the tire size. (2 digits) ABCD = Code used by tire manufacturer. (1 to 4 digits) 03 = Number representing the week in which the tire was manufactured. (2 digits)


—03 means the 3rd week.


01 = Number representing the year in which the tire was manufactured. (2 digits)


—01 means the year 2001. —Prior to July 2000, tire manufacturers were only required to have 1 number to represent the year in which the tire was manufactured. Example: 031 could represent the 3rd week of 1981 or 1991.


Tire Loading and Tire Pressure


Tire and Loading Information Placard


STARTING AND OPERATING 293


Tire Placard Location NOTE: The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed on either the face of the driver’s door or the driver’s side “B” pillar.


Tire and Loading Information


This placard tells you important information about the: 1) number of people that can be carried in the vehicle 2) the total weight your vehicle can carry 3) the tire size designed for your vehicle 4) the cold tire inflation pressures for the front, rear and spare tires.


Tire Placard Location


294 STARTING AND OPERATING


Loading The vehicle maximum load on the tire must not exceed the load carrying capacity of the tire on your vehicle. You will not exceed the tire’s load carrying capacity if you adhere to the loading conditions, tire size, and cold tire inflation pressures specified on the “Tire and Loading Information” placard and in the “Vehicle Loading” sec- tion of this manual. NOTE: Under a maximum loaded vehicle condition, gross axle weight ratings (GAWR’s) for the front and rear axles must not be exceeded. For further information on GAWR’s, vehicle loading, and trailer towing, refer to the “Vehicle Loading” section of this manual. To determine the maximum loading conditions of your vehicle, locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on the Tire and Loading Information placard. The


combined weight of occupants, cargo/luggage and trailer tongue weight (if applicable) should never exceed the weight referenced here. Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occu- pants and cargo should never exceed XXX pounds” on your vehicle’s placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and pas- sengers from XXX kilograms or XXX pounds. 4. The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (since 5 x 150 = 750, and 1400 – 750 = 650 lbs.)


5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. 6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. NOTE: The following table shows examples on how to calculate total load, cargo/luggage, and towing capaci- ties of your vehicle with varying seating configurations


STARTING AND OPERATING 295


and number and size of occupants. This table is for illustration purposes only and may not be accurate for the seating and load carry capacity of your vehicle. NOTE: For the following example, the combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed 865 lbs. (392
Kg).


296 STARTING AND OPERATING


WARNING!


1. Safety—


STARTING AND OPERATING 297


Overloading of your tires is dangerous. Overloading can cause tire failure, affect vehicle handling, and increase your stopping distance. Use tires of the recommended load capacity for your vehicle. Never overload them.


TIRES — GENERAL INFORMATION


Tire Pressure Proper tire inflation pressure is essential to the safe and satisfactory operation of your vehicle. Three primary areas are affected by improper tire pressure:


WARNING!


• Improperly inflated tires are dangerous and can cause accidents. • Under inflation increases tire flexing and can result in tire failure. • Over inflation reduces a tire’s ability to cushion shock. Objects on the road and chuckholes can cause damage that result in tire failure. • Unequal tire pressures can cause steering problems. You could lose control of your vehicle. • Over inflated or under inflated tires can affect vehicle handling and can fail suddenly, resulting in loss of vehicle control. • Unequal tire pressures from one side of the vehicle to the other can cause the vehicle to drift to the right or left. • Always drive with each tire inflated to the recom- mended cold tire inflation pressure.


298 STARTING AND OPERATING


2. Economy— Improper inflation pressures can cause uneven wear pat- terns to develop across the tire tread. These abnormal wear patterns will reduce tread life resulting in a need for earlier tire replacement. Under inflation, also increases tire rolling resistance and results in higher fuel consumption. 3. Ride Comfort and Vehicle Stability— Proper tire inflation contributes to a comfortable ride. Over inflation produces a jarring and uncomfortable ride. Tire Inflation Pressures The proper cold tire inflation pressure is listed either on the face of the driver’s door or on the driver’s side “B” pillar. Some vehicles may have Supplemental Tire Pressure Information for vehicle loads that are less than the maximum loaded vehicle condition. These pressure con- ditions will be found in the “Supplemental Tire Pressure Information” section of this manual.


Tire Placard Location


The pressure should be checked and adjusted as well as inspecting for signs of tire wear or visible damage at least once a month. Use a good quality pocket-type gauge to check tire pressure. Do not make a visual judgement when determining proper inflation. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they are under inflated.


CAUTION!


After inspecting or adjusting the tire pressure, al- ways reinstall the valve stem cap (if equipped). This will prevent moisture and dirt from entering the valve stem, which could damage the valve stem.


Inflation pressures specified on the placard are always “cold tire inflation pressure.” Cold tire inflation pressure is defined as the tire pressure after the vehicle has not been driven for at least 3 hours, or driven less than 1 mile (1 km) after a 3 hour period. The cold tire inflation pressure must not exceed the maximum inflation pres- sure molded into the tire sidewall. Check tire pressures more often if subject to a wide range of outdoor temperatures, as tire pressures vary with temperature changes.


STARTING AND OPERATING 299


Tire pressures change by approximately 1 psi (7 kPa) per 12° F (7° C) of air temperature change. Keep this in mind when checking tire pressure inside a garage, especially in the winter. Example: If garage temperature = 68° F (20° C) and the outside temperature = 32° F (0° C) then the cold tire inflation pressure should be increased by 3 psi (21 kPa), which equals 1 psi (7 kPa) for every 12° F (7° C) for this outside temperature condition. Tire pressure may increase from 2 to 6 psi (13 to 40 kPa) during operation. DO NOT reduce this normal pressure build up or your tire pressure will be too low. Tire Pressures for High Speed Operation The manufacturer advocates driving at safe speeds within posted speed limits. Where speed limits or condi- tions are such that the vehicle can be driven at high speeds, maintaining correct tire inflation pressure is very important. Increased tire pressure and reduced vehicle


300 STARTING AND OPERATING


loading may be required for high-speed vehicle opera- tion. Refer to original equipment or an authorized tire dealer for recommended safe operating speeds, loading and cold tire inflation pressures.


WARNING!


High speed driving with your vehicle under maxi- mum load is dangerous. The added strain on your tires could cause them to fail. You could have a serious accident. Don’t drive a vehicle loaded to the maximum capacity at continuous speeds above 75
mph (120 km/h).


Radial-Ply Tires


WARNING!


Combining radial ply tires with other types of tires on your vehicle will cause your vehicle to handle poorly. The instability could cause an accident. Al- ways use radial ply tires in sets of four (or 6, in case of trucks with dual rear wheels). Never combine them with other types of tires.


Cuts and punctures in radial tires are repairable only in the tread area because of sidewall flexing. Consult your authorized tire dealer for radial tire repairs.


Compact Spare Tire — If Equipped The compact spare is for temporary emergency use with radial tires. It is engineered to be used on your style vehicle only. Since this tire has limited tread life, the original tire should be repaired (or replaced) and rein- stalled at the first opportunity.


Do not install a wheel cover or attempt to mount a conventional tire on the compact spare wheel, since the wheel is designed specifically for the compact spare. Do not install more than one compact spare tire/wheel on the vehicle at any given time.


STARTING AND OPERATING 301


WARNING!


Temporary use spare tires are for emergency use only. With these tires, do not drive more than 50 mph (80 km/h). Temporary-use spare tires have limited tread life. When the tread is worn to the tread wear indicators, the temporary use spare tire needs to be replaced. Be sure to follow the warnings, which apply to your spare. Failure to do so could result in spare tire failure and loss of vehicle control.


CAUTION!


Because of the reduced ground clearance, do not take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with the compact spare installed. Damage to the vehicle may result.


302 STARTING AND OPERATING


Limited Use Spare — If Equipped The limited use spare tire is for temporary emergency use on your vehicle. This tire is identified by a limited use spare tire warning label located on the limited use spare tire and wheel assembly. This tire may look like the original equipped tire on the front or rear axle of your vehicle, but it is not. Installation of this limited use spare tire affects vehicle handling. Since it is not the same tire, replace (or repair) the original tire and reinstall on the vehicle at the first opportunity.


WARNING!


The limited use spare tires are for emergency use only. Installation of this limited use spare tire affects vehicle handling. With this tire, do not drive more than 60 mph (100 km/h). Keep inflated to the cold tire inflation pressure listed on either your tire placard or limited use spare tire and wheel assembly. Replace (or repair) the original tire at the first opportunity and reinstall it on your vehicle. Failure to do so could result in loss of vehicle control.


Tire Spinning When stuck in mud, sand, snow, or ice conditions, do not spin your vehicle’s wheels above 35 mph (55 km/h). Refer to the paragraph on “Freeing A Stuck Vehicle” in Section 6 of this manual.


WARNING!


Fast spinning tires can be dangerous. Forces gener- ated by excessive wheel speeds may cause tire dam- age or failure. A tire could explode and injure someone. Do not spin your vehicle’s wheels faster than 30 mph (48 km/h) for more than 30 seconds continuously when you are stuck, and don’t let anyone near a spinning wheel, no matter what the speed.


Tread Wear Indicators Tread wear indicators are in the original equipment tires to help you in determining when your tires should be replaced.


STARTING AND OPERATING 303


These indicators are molded into the bottom of the tread grooves. They will appear as bands when the tread depth becomes 1/16 inch (2 mm). When the tread is worn to the tread wear indicators, the tire should be replaced. Many states have laws requiring tire replacement at this point.


304 STARTING AND OPERATING


Life of Tire The service life of a tire is dependent upon varying factors including but not limited to: • Driving style • Tire pressure • Distance driven


WARNING!


Tires and spare tire should be replaced after six years, regardless of the remaining tread. Failure to follow this warning can result in sudden tire failure. You could lose control and have an accident result- ing in serious injury or death.


Keep dismounted tires in a cool, dry place with as little exposure to light as possible. Protect tires from contact with oil, grease, and gasoline. Replacement Tires The tires on your new vehicle provide a balance of many characteristics. They should be inspected regularly for wear and correct cold tire inflation pressure. The manu- facturer strongly recommends that you use tires equiva- lent to the originals in size, quality and performance when replacement is needed (refer to the paragraph on “Tread Wear Indicators”). Refer to the “Tire and Loading Information” placard for the size designation of your tire. The service description and load identification will be found on the original equipment tire. Failure to use equivalent replacement tires may adversely affect the safety, handling, and ride of your vehicle. We recommend that you contact your original equipment or an autho- rized tire dealer with any questions you may have on tire specifications or capability.


WARNING!


• Do not use a tire, wheel size or rating other than that specified for your vehicle. Some combinations of un- approved tires and wheels may change suspension dimensions and performance characteristics, resulting in changes to steering, handling, and braking of your vehicle. This can cause unpredictable handling and stress to steering and suspension components. You could lose control and have an accident resulting in serious injury or death. Use only the tire and wheel sizes with load ratings approved for your vehicle. • Never use a tire with a smaller load index or capacity, other than what was originally equipped on your vehicle. Using a tire with a smaller load index could result in tire overloading and failure. You could lose control and have an accident. • Failure to equip your vehicle with tires having ad- equate speed capability can result in sudden tire failure and loss of vehicle control.


STARTING AND OPERATING 305


CAUTION!


Replacing original tires with tires of a different size may result in false speedometer and odometer read- ings.


Alignment And Balance Poor suspension alignment may result in: • Fast tire wear. • Uneven tire wear, such as feathering and one-sided • Vehicle pull to right or left. Tires may also cause the vehicle to pull to the left or right. Alignment will not correct this condition. See your dealer for proper diagnosis.


wear.


306 STARTING AND OPERATING


Improper alignment will not cause vehicle vibration. Vibration may be a result of tire and wheel out-of- balance. Proper balancing will reduce vibration and avoid tire cupping and spotty wear.


TIRE CHAINS Use only compact chains, or other traction aids that meet SAE type “Class S” specifications. Chains must be the proper size for the vehicle, as recommended by the chain manufacturer. NOTE: Do not use tire chains on a compact spare tire.


CAUTION!


To avoid damage to your vehicle or tires, observe the following precautions:


• Because of restricted chain clearance between tires and other


suspension components, it is important that only chains in good condition are used. Broken chains can cause serious damage. Stop the vehicle immediately if noise occurs that could indicate chain breakage. Remove the damaged parts of the chain before further use.


then retighten after driving about 1⁄2 mile (0.8 km).


• Install chains on the front wheels as tightly as possible and • Do not exceed 45 mph (70 km/h). • Drive cautiously and avoid severe turns and large bumps, • If chains are used on an All Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle, they • Do not drive for prolonged period on dry pavement. • Observe the tire chain manufacturer’s instructions on the


especially with a loaded vehicle.


should be used on all four tires.


method of installation, operating speed, and conditions for use. Always use the lower suggested operating speed of the chain manufacturer if different than the speed recommended by the manufacture.


In order to avoid damage to tires, chains, and NOTE: your vehicle do not drive for a prolonged period of time on dry pavement. Observe the tire chain manufacturer’s instructions on method of installation, operating speed, and conditions for usage. Always use the lower suggested operating speed if both

Loading...
x