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front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.


{ WARNING:


If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. For example, the right front passenger airbag could inflate even though the airbag on-off switch is turned off. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23 for more information, including important safety information.


If the vehicle does not have a rear seat that will accommodate a rear-facing child restraint, a rear-facing child restraint should not be installed in the vehicle, even if the airbag is off. If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2-42 for how and where to install the child restraint using LATCH. If a child restraint is secured using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2-42 for top tether anchor locations.


Do not secure a child seat in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. 1. Move the seat as far back as it will go before


securing the forward-facing child restraint. If you have no other choice but to install a rear-facing child restraint in this seat, make sure the airbag is off once the child restraint has been installed. When the airbag off switch has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator in the airbag off light should light and stay lit when the vehicle is started. See Airbag Off Light on page 4-24.


2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder


portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.


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4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Position the release button on the buckle so that the safety belt could be quickly unbuckled if necessary.


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


the retractor to set the lock.


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6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint,


pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. When installing a forward-facing child restraint, it may be helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.


7. If the vehicle does not have a rear seat and the


child restraint has a top tether, follow the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions regarding the use of the top tether. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 2-42 for more information.


8. Push and pull the child restraint in different


directions to be sure it is secure.


To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle safety belt and let it return to the stowed position. If the top tether is attached to a top tether anchor, disconnect it. If you turned the airbag off with the switch, turn on the right front passenger airbag when you remove the child restraint from the vehicle unless the person who will be sitting there is a member of a passenger airbag risk group. See Airbag Off Switch on page 2-69
for more information, including important safety information.


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Airbag System The vehicle has the following airbag: • A frontal airbag for the driver. The vehicle may have the following airbags: • A frontal airbag for the right front passenger. • A roof-rail airbag for the driver (cargo van). • A roof-rail airbag for the right front passenger


position (cargo or passenger van equipped with a sliding door). If you have a passenger van with a right front passenger roof-rail airbag and a sliding door, you will also have a separate roof-rail airbag for the passenger seated directly behind the right front passenger and the third row outboard passenger position.


• A roof-rail airbag for the driver, passenger seated


directly behind the driver, and the third row outboard passenger position (passenger van equipped with a sliding or hinged door).


• A roof-rail airbag for the right front passenger, passenger seated directly behind the right front passenger, and the third row outboard passenger position (passenger van equipped with a hinged door).


All of the airbags in the vehicle will have the word AIRBAG embossed in the trim or on an attached label near the deployment opening. For frontal airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear on the middle part of the steering wheel for the driver and on the instrument panel for the right front passenger. With roof-rail airbags, the word AIRBAG will appear along the headliner or trim.


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Here are the most important things to know about the airbag system:


{ WARNING:


{ WARNING:


You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you are not wearing your safety belt — even if you have airbags. Airbags are designed to work with safety belts, but do not replace them. Also, airbags are not designed to deploy in every crash. In some crashes safety belts are your only restraint. See When Should an Airbag Inflate? on page 2-65. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Airbags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that person.


Airbags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. Anyone who is up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Do not sit unnecessarily close to the airbag, as you would be if you were sitting on the edge of your seat or leaning forward. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with airbags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle. Occupants should not lean on or sleep against the door or side windows in seating positions with roof-rail airbags.


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Where Are the Airbags?


The driver frontal airbag is in the middle of the steering wheel.


{ WARNING:


Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Airbags plus lap-shoulder belts offer protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see Older Children on page 2-30 or Infants and Young Children on page 2-33.


There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the airbag symbol.


The system checks the airbag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23
for more information.


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If the vehicle has one, the right front passenger airbag is in the instrument panel on the passenger side.


Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar


If the vehicle is a cargo or passenger van with a sliding door and it has a roof-rail airbag for the driver and right front passenger position, the roof-rail airbags are in the ceiling above the side window.


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For passenger vans with a sliding door, on the passenger side of the vehicle, you will have a separate roof-rail airbag for the passenger seated directly behind the right front passenger and the third row outboard passenger position.


{ WARNING:


If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the airbag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person causing severe injury or even death. The path of an inflating airbag must be kept clear. Do not put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and do not attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other airbag covering. Never secure anything to the roof of a vehicle with roof-rail airbags by routing a rope or tie down through any door or window opening. If you do, the path of an inflating roof-rail airbag will be blocked.


Driver Side shown, Passenger Side similar


If the vehicle has roof-rail airbags for the driver, right front passenger, passengers behind the driver and right front passenger, and the third row outboard passengers, the roof-rail airbags are in the ceiling above the side windows. On the driver side of the vehicle, there is one single roof-rail airbag for either vehicles with a hinged door or a sliding door.


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When Should an Airbag Inflate? Frontal airbags are designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes to help reduce the potential for severe injuries mainly to the driver’s or right front passenger’s head and chest. However, they are only designed to inflate if the impact exceeds a predetermined deployment threshold. Deployment thresholds are used to predict how severe a crash is likely to be in time for the airbags to inflate and help restrain the occupants. Whether the frontal airbags will or should deploy is not based on how fast the vehicle is traveling. It depends largely on what you hit, the direction of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down. Frontal airbags may inflate at different crash speeds. For example: • If the vehicle hits a stationary object, the airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a moving object.


• If the vehicle hits an object that deforms, the


airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits an object that does not deform.


• If the vehicle hits a narrow object (like a pole), the


airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle hits a wide object (like a wall). • If the vehicle goes into an object at an angle, the


airbags could inflate at a different crash speed than if the vehicle goes straight into the object.


Thresholds can also vary with specific vehicle design. Frontal airbags are not intended to inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear impacts, or in many side impacts. Single Stage vs. Dual Stage Airbags Depending on the weight of the vehicle, you will have either “Single Stage Airbags” or “Dual Stage Airbags.” Vehicles that have a passenger sensing system also have dual stage airbags. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-26 or Passenger Sensing System on page 2-72. If the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of the vehicle is 8,500 lb (3 855 kg) or above, the vehicle may have single stage airbags. If the GVWR is below 8,500 lb (3 855 kg) then the vehicle may have dual stage airbags. You can find the GVWR on the certification label on the rear edge of the driver door. See Loading the Vehicle on page 5-17 for more information.


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In addition, the vehicle may have dual-stage frontal airbags. Dual-stage airbags adjust the restraint according to crash severity. The vehicle has electronic frontal sensors, which help the sensing system distinguish between a moderate frontal impact and a more severe frontal impact. For moderate frontal impacts, dual-stage airbags inflate at a level less than full deployment. For more severe frontal impacts, full deployment occurs. The vehicle may or may not have roof-rail airbags. See Airbag System on page 2-60. Roof-rail airbags are intended to inflate in moderate to severe side crashes. In addition, these roof-rail airbags are intended to inflate during a rollover. Roof-rail airbags will inflate if the crash severity is above the system’s designed threshold level. The threshold level can vary with specific vehicle design. Roof-rail airbags are not intended to inflate in frontal impacts, near-frontal impacts, or rear impacts. All roof-rail airbags will deploy when either side of the vehicle is struck. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an airbag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. For frontal airbags, inflation is determined by what the vehicle hits, the angle of the impact, and how quickly the vehicle slows down. For roof-rail airbags, deployment is determined by the location and severity of the side impact.


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What Makes an Airbag Inflate? In a deployment event, the sensing system sends an electrical signal triggering a release of gas from the inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the airbag causing the bag to break out of the cover and deploy. The inflator, the airbag, and related hardware are all part of the airbag module. Frontal airbag modules are located inside the steering wheel and instrument panel. For vehicles with roof-rail airbags, there are airbag modules in the ceiling of the vehicle, near the side windows for the first, second, and third rows (if equipped). See Where Are the Airbags? on page 2-62 for more information.


How Does an Airbag Restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. In moderate to severe side collisions, even belted occupants can contact the inside of the vehicle. Airbags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Frontal airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. Roof-rail airbags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body.


Rollover capable roof-rail airbags are designed to help contain the head and chest of occupants in the outboard seating positions in the first, second, and third rows, if equipped. The rollover capable roof-rail airbags are designed to help reduce the risk of full or partial ejection in rollover events, although no system can prevent all such ejections. But airbags would not help in many types of collisions, primarily because the occupant’s motion is not toward those airbags. See When Should an Airbag Inflate? on page 2-65 for more information. Airbags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts.


What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates? After the frontal airbags inflate, they quickly deflate, so quickly that some people may not even realize an airbag inflated. Roof-rail airbags may still be at least partially inflated for some time after they deploy. Some components of the airbag module may be hot for several minutes. For location of the airbag modules, see What Makes an Airbag Inflate? on page 2-66. The parts of the airbag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There may be some smoke and dust coming from the vents in the deflated airbags. Airbag inflation does not prevent


the driver from seeing out of the windshield or being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it prevent people from leaving the vehicle.


{ WARNING:


When an airbag inflates, there may be dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but cannot get out of the vehicle after an airbag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or a door. If you experience breathing problems following an airbag deployment, you should seek medical attention.


The vehicle has a feature that may automatically unlock the doors (if equipped with power door locks), turn on the interior lamps and hazard warning flashers, and shut off the fuel system after the airbags inflate. You can lock the doors, turn off the interior lamps and turn the hazard warning flashers by using the controls for those features.


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{ WARNING:


A crash severe enough to inflate the airbags may have also damaged important functions in the vehicle, such as the fuel system, brake and steering systems, etc. Even if the vehicle appears to be drivable after a moderate crash, there may be concealed damage that could make it difficult to safely operate the vehicle. Use caution if you should attempt to restart the engine after a crash has occurred.


In many crashes severe enough to inflate the airbag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger airbag. • Airbags are designed to inflate only once. After an


airbag inflates, you will need some new parts for the airbag system. If you do not get them, the airbag system will not be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include airbag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for the vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.


• The vehicle has a crash sensing and diagnostic module which records information after a crash. See Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy on page 8-16 and Event Data Recorders on page 8-16.


• Let only qualified technicians work on the airbag


systems. Improper service can mean that an airbag system will not work properly. See your dealer/retailer for service.


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Airbag Off Switch If the instrument panel has one of the switches pictured in the following illustrations, the vehicle has an airbag on-off switch that you can use to manually turn on or off the right front passenger airbag.


United States


Canada


If the vehicle does not have an airbag on-off switch, it may have a passenger sensing system. See Passenger Sensing System on page 2-72.


This switch should only be turned to the off position if the person in the right front passenger position is a member of a passenger risk group identified by the national government as follows: Infant. An infant (less than 1 year old) must ride in the front seat because: • My vehicle has no rear seat; • My vehicle has a rear seat too small to


accommodate a rear-facing infant seat; or


• The infant has a medical condition which, according to the infant’s physician, makes it necessary for the infant to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.


Child age 1 to 12. A child age 1 to 12 must ride in the front seat because: • My vehicle has no rear seat; • Although children ages 1 to 12 ride in the rear seat(s) whenever possible, children ages 1 to 12 sometimes must ride in the front because no space is available in the rear seat(s) of my vehicle; or


• The child has a medical condition which, according to the child’s physician, makes it necessary for the child to ride in the front seat so that the driver can constantly monitor the child’s condition.


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Medical Condition. A passenger has a medical condition which, according to his or her physician: • Causes the passenger airbag to pose a special risk


for the passenger; and


• Makes the potential harm from the passenger


airbag in a crash greater than the potential harm from turning off the airbag and allowing the passenger, even if belted, to hit the dashboard or windshield in a crash.


{ WARNING:


If the right front passenger’s airbag is turned off for a person who is not in a risk group identified by the national government, that person will not have the extra protection of an airbag. In a crash, the airbag will not be able to inflate and help protect the person sitting there. Do not turn off the passenger’s airbag unless the person sitting there is in a risk group.


United States


Canada


To turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag, insert the ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the off position. The airbag off light will come on to let you know that the right front passenger airbag is off. The airbag off light will stay on to remind you that the airbag is off. See Airbag Off Light on page 4-24. The airbag off light will stay on to remind you that the airbag is off. The right front passenger airbag will remain off until you turn it back on again.


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{ WARNING:


If the airbag readiness light ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. For example, the right front passenger airbag could inflate even though the airbag on-off switch is turned off. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23 for more information, including important safety information.


United States


Canada


To turn the right front passenger airbag on again, insert the ignition key into the switch, push in, and move the switch to the on position. The right front passenger frontal airbag is now enabled (may inflate). See Airbag Off Light on page 4-24 or more information.


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The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbag and roof-rail airbags, if equipped, are not part of the passenger sensing system. The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger seat. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the right front passenger frontal airbag should be enabled (may inflate) or not. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We recommend that children be secured in a rear seat, including: an infant or a child riding in a rear-facing child restraint; a child riding in a forward-facing child seat; an older child riding in a booster seat; and children, who are large enough, using safety belts. A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys.


Passenger Sensing System If the instrument panel has one of the indicators pictured in the following illustrations, the vehicle has a passenger sensing system unless there is an airbag off switch located on the instrument panel. If there is an airbag off switch, the vehicle does not have a passenger sensing system. See Airbag Off Switch on page 2-69 for more information.


United States


Canada


The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible on the instrument panel when the vehicle is started. The words ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, will be visible during the system check. When the system check is complete, either the word ON or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or the symbol for off, will be visible. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-26.


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{ WARNING:


A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inflates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. Even if the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though the airbag is turned off. Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.


If the vehicle does not have a rear seat that will accommodate a rear-facing child restraint, a rear-facing child restraint should not be installed in the vehicle, even if the airbag is off. The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag if: • The right front passenger seat is unoccupied. • The system determines that an infant is present in


a rear-facing infant seat.


• The system determines that a small child is present


in a child restraint.


• The system determines that a small child is present


in a booster seat.


• A right front passenger takes his/her weight off of


the seat for a period of time.


• The right front passenger seat is occupied by a


smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints.


• Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag


system or the passenger sensing system.


When the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-26.


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The passenger sensing system is designed to turn on (may inflate) the right front passenger frontal airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the right front passenger seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed the airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active. For some children, including those in child restraints, and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag, depending upon the person’s seating posture and body build. Everyone in your vehicle who has outgrown child restraints should wear a safety belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that person.


{ WARNING:


If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly, because an adult-size person sitting in the right front passenger’s seat may not have the protection of the airbag(s). See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23 for more on this, including important safety information.


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If the On Indicator is Lit for a Child Restraint If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit: 1. Turn the vehicle off. 2. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle. 3. Remove any additional items from the seat such as


blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters, or seat massagers.


4. Reinstall the child restraint following the directions


provided by the child restraint manufacturer and refer to Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (With Passenger Sensing System) in the Index.


5. If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting


the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, turn the vehicle off. Then slightly recline the vehicle seatback and adjust the seat cushion, if adjustable, to make sure that the vehicle seatback is not pushing the child restraint into the seat cushion.


6. Restart the vehicle.


If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle, and check with your dealer/retailer. If no rear seat is available, do not install a child restraint in this vehicle.


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If the Off Indicator is Lit for an Adult-Size Occupant


If this happens, use the following steps to allow the system to detect that person and enable the right front passenger frontal airbag: 1. Turn the vehicle off. 2. Remove any additional material from the seat, such as blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters, or seat massagers.


3. Place the seatback in the fully upright position. 4. Have the person sit upright in the seat, centered on


the seat cushion, with legs comfortably extended. 5. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in


this position for two to three minutes after the on indicator is lit.


This allows the system to detect that person and then enable the right front passenger frontal airbag. Additional Factors Affecting System Operation Safety belts help keep the passenger in position on the seat during vehicle maneuvers and braking, which helps the passenger sensing system maintain the passenger airbag status. See “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints” in the Index for additional information about the importance of proper restraint use.


If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front passenger seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be because that person is not sitting properly in the seat.


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A thick layer of additional material, such as a blanket or cushion, or aftermarket equipment such as seat covers, seat heaters, and seat massagers can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. We recommend that you not use seat covers or other aftermarket equipment except when approved by GM for your specific vehicle. See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 2-78 for more information about modifications that can affect how the system operates. The on indicator may be lit if an object, such as a briefcase, handbag, grocery bag, laptop or other electronic device, is put on an unoccupied seat. If this is not desired remove the object from the seat.


{ WARNING:


Stowing of articles under the passenger seat or between the passenger seat cushion and seatback may interfere with the proper operation of the passenger sensing system.


Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Airbags affect how the vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around the vehicle. Your dealer/retailer and the service manual have information about servicing the vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 8-15.


{ WARNING:


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


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Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle


Q: Is there anything I might add to or change


about the vehicle that could keep the airbags from working properly?


A: Yes. If you add things that change the vehicle’s frame, bumper system, height, front end or side sheet metal, they may keep the airbag system from working properly. Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic module, steering wheel, instrument panel, roof-rail airbag modules, ceiling headliner or pillar garnish trim, front sensors, or airbag wiring can affect the operation of the airbag system. In addition, the vehicle may have a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position, which includes sensors that are part of the passenger seat. The passenger sensing system may not operate properly if the original seat trim is replaced with non-GM covers, upholstery or trim, or with GM covers, upholstery or trim designed for a different vehicle. Any object, such as an aftermarket seat heater or a comfort enhancing pad or device, installed under or on top of the seat fabric, could also interfere with the operation of the


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passenger sensing system. This could either prevent proper deployment of the passenger airbag(s) or prevent the passenger sensing system from properly turning off the passenger airbag(s). See Passenger Sensing System on page 2-72. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify the vehicle. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 8-2. If the vehicle has rollover roof-rail airbags, see Different Size Tires and Wheels on page 6-74 for additional important information.


Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my vehicle modified. How can I find out whether this will affect my airbag system?


A: If you have questions, call Customer Assistance. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 8-2.


In addition, your dealer/retailer and the service manual have information about the location of the airbag sensors, sensing and diagnostic module and airbag wiring.


Restraint System Check


Checking the Restraint Systems Safety Belts Now and then, check that the safety belt reminder light, safety belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, and anchorages are all working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job. See your dealer/retailer to have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Make sure the safety belt reminder light is working. See Safety Belt Reminders on page 4-23 for more information. Keep safety belts clean and dry. See Care of Safety Belts on page 6-99.


Airbags The airbag system does not need regularly scheduled maintenance or replacement. Make sure the airbag readiness light is working. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23 for more information. Notice: or broken, the airbag may not work properly. Do not open or break the airbag coverings. If there are any opened or broken airbag covers, have the airbag covering and/or airbag module replaced. For the location of the airbag modules, see What Makes an Airbag Inflate? on page 2-66. See your dealer/retailer for service.


If an airbag covering is damaged, opened,


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Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash


{ WARNING:


A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.


If the vehicle has been in a crash, do you need new safety belts or LATCH system (if equipped) parts? After a very minor crash, nothing may be necessary. But the safety belt assemblies that were used during any crash may have been stressed or damaged. See your dealer/retailer to have the safety belt assemblies inspected or replaced. If the vehicle has the LATCH system and it was being used during a crash, you may need new LATCH system parts. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the safety belt or LATCH system (if equipped), was not being used at the time of the crash. If an airbag inflates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See the part on the airbag system earlier in this section. Have the safety belt pretensioners checked if the vehicle has been in a crash, if the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started, or while you are driving. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23.


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Section 3


Features and Controls


Keys ...............................................................3-3
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System ................3-4
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System


Operation ...................................................3-4
Remote Vehicle Start ......................................3-6
Doors and Locks .............................................3-8
Door Locks ....................................................3-8
Power Door Locks ..........................................3-9
Cargo Door Relocking .....................................3-9
Delayed Locking .............................................3-9
Programmable Automatic Door Locks ..............3-10
Automatic Door Lock .....................................3-10
Automatic Door Unlock ..................................3-10
Rear Door Security Locks ..............................3-11
Lockout Protection ........................................3-12
Sliding Side Door ..........................................3-12
60/40 Swing-Out Side Door ............................3-13
Rear Doors ..................................................3-15
Windows ........................................................3-16
Manual Windows ..........................................3-17
Power Windows ............................................3-17
Swing-Out Windows ......................................3-18
Enhanced Technology Glass ..........................3-19
Sun Visors ...................................................3-20


Theft-Deterrent Systems ..................................3-20
PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer .............3-20
PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer


Operation .................................................3-20
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle ................3-22
New Vehicle Break-In ....................................3-22
Ignition Positions ..........................................3-22
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) ...................3-23
Starting the Engine .......................................3-23
Fast Idle System ..........................................3-25
Engine Coolant Heater ..................................3-25
Automatic Transmission Operation


(Six Speed Automatic Transmission) ............3-26


Automatic Transmission Operation


(Four Speed Automatic Transmission) ..........3-31
Tow/Haul Mode ............................................3-33
Parking Brake ..............................................3-35
Shifting Into Park ..........................................3-36
Shifting Out of Park ......................................3-37
Parking Over Things That Burn .......................3-38
Engine Exhaust ............................................3-38
Running the Vehicle While Parked ..................3-39


3-1


Section 3


Features and Controls


Mirrors ...........................................................3-40
Manual Rearview Mirror .................................3-40
Outside Manual Mirrors ..................................3-40
Outside Towing Mirrors ..................................3-40


Outside Power Mirrors ...................................3-41
Outside Convex Mirror ...................................3-41
Outside Heated Mirrors ..................................3-42
Storage Areas ................................................3-42


3-2


Keys


{ WARNING:


Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons, children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.


The key can be used for the ignition and all door locks. The key has a bar-coded key tag that the dealer/retailer or qualified locksmith can use to make new keys. Store this information in a safe place, not in your vehicle. Notice: you may have to damage the vehicle to get in. Be sure you have spare keys. If you are locked out of your vehicle, call Roadside Assistance Center. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 8-6.


If you ever lock your keys in the vehicle,


3-3


Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System See Radio Frequency Statement on page 8-18 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and RSS-210/211 of Industry and Science Canada. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range, try this: • Check the distance. The transmitter may be too far


from the vehicle. Stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.


• Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may


be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again.


• Check the transmitter’s battery. See “Battery


Replacement” later in this section.


• If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see


your dealer/retailer or a qualified technician for service.


3-4


Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter functions work up to 20 m (65 feet) away from the vehicle. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 3-4.


Without Remote Start Shown, With Similar


Q (Lock): Press once to lock all doors. If enabled through the Driver Information Center (DIC), the parking lamps flash once to indicate locking has occurred.


The horn may chirp when Q is pressed again within five seconds. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-52 for additional information. K (Unlock): Press to unlock the driver door. If K is pressed again within five seconds, all remaining doors unlock.


The interior lamps come on and stay on for 20 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. If enabled through the DIC, the parking lamps flash twice to indicate unlocking has occurred. See DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-52 for additional information. j (Cargo Door): Press to unlock only the cargo doors. / (Remote Vehicle Start): For vehicles with this feature, press Q and then press and hold / within five seconds to start the engine from outside the vehicle using the RKE transmitter. See Remote Vehicle Start on page 3-6 for additional information. L (Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and release to locate the vehicle. The turn signal lamps flash and the horn sounds three times.


Press and hold L for more than two seconds to activate the panic alarm. The turn signal lamps flash and the horn sounds repeatedly for 30 seconds. The alarm turns off when the ignition is moved to ON/RUN or L is pressed again. The ignition must be in LOCK/OFF for the panic alarm to work. Programming Transmitters to the Vehicle Only RKE transmitters programmed to the vehicle will work. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased and programmed through your dealer/ retailer. When the replacement transmitter is programmed to the vehicle, all remaining transmitters must also be programmed. Any lost or stolen transmitters no longer work once the new transmitter is programmed. Each vehicle can have up to four transmitters programmed to it. See “Relearn Remote Key” under DIC Operation and Displays on page 4-38 for instructions on how to match RKE transmitters to your vehicle.


3-5


Battery Replacement Replace the battery if the REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY message displays in the DIC. See “REPLACE BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 4-44 for additional information. Notice: When replacing the battery, do not touch any of the circuitry on the transmitter. Static from your body could damage the transmitter.


3-6


To replace the battery: 1. Separate the transmitter with a flat, thin object


inserted into the notch on the side of the transmitter.


2. Remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Insert the new battery, positive side facing down.


Replace with a CR2032 or equivalent battery.


4. Snap the transmitter back together.


Remote Vehicle Start Your vehicle may have a remote start feature. This feature allows you to start the engine from outside the vehicle. It may also start the vehicle’s heating or air conditioning systems. See Climate Control System on page 4-15 for additional information. Laws in some local communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws may require a person using remote start to have the vehicle in view when doing so. Check local regulations for any requirements on remote starting of vehicles. Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle is low on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel. If your vehicle has the remote start feature, the RKE transmitter functions will have an increased range of operation. However, the range may be less while the vehicle is running.


There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter, see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 3-4 for additional information. / (Remote Vehicle Start): This button will be on the RKE transmitter if you have remote start.


To start the engine using the remote start feature: 1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle. 2. Press and release the transmitter’s lock button,


then immediately press and hold the remote vehicle start button for four seconds or until the vehicle’s turn signal lamps flash. When the vehicle’s engine starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on while the engine is running. The vehicle’s doors will be locked. The airbag readiness light will be on during a remote start. It should turn off when the ignition is turned to ON/RUN. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-23 for more information.


3. If it is the first remote start since the vehicle has been driven, repeat these steps, while the engine is still running, to extend the engine running time by 10 minutes. Remote start can be extended one time.


After entering the vehicle during a remote start, insert and turn the key to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle.


After a remote start, the engine will automatically shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension has been done or the vehicle’s key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to ON/RUN. The maximum number of remote starts between ignition cycles with the key is two. If the remote start procedure is used again before the first 10 minute time frame has ended, the first 10 minutes will immediately expire and the second 10 minute time frame will start. After your vehicle’s engine has been started two times using the remote start button, the vehicle’s ignition switch must be turned to ON/RUN and then back to LOCK/OFF using the key before the remote start procedure can be used again. To manually shut off the engine after a remote start: • Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and


press the remote start button until the parking lamps turn off.


• Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard


Warning Flashers on page 4-3.


• Insert the vehicle’s key into the ignition switch and


turn the switch to ON/RUN and then back to LOCK/OFF.


3-7


The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if: • The remote start system is disabled through


the DIC.


• The vehicle’s key is in the ignition. • The vehicle’s hood is open • The hazard warning flashers are on. • There is an emission control system malfunction.


See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 4-31.


• The engine coolant temperature is too high. • The oil pressure is low. • Two remote vehicle starts have already been


provided.


3-8


Doors and Locks Door Locks


{ WARNING:


Unlocked doors can be dangerous.


• Passengers, especially children, can easily


open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven.


• Young children who get into unlocked vehicles


may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock the vehicle whenever leaving it.


• Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening.


To lock the door from the inside, slide the manual lever on the door down. To unlock the door, slide the manual lever up.


From the outside, use the key. If the vehicle is equipped with keyless entry, see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 3-4 for more information. Power Door Locks On vehicles with power door locks, the switches are located on the doors.


T : Press the bottom of the switch to lock all the doors at once. Press the top of the switch to unlock all the doors at once. When a door is locked, the inside door handle will not work.


Cargo Door Relocking If the cargo door is open when the lock button is pressed on the door or the RKE transmitter, all doors will lock except the cargo door. The cargo door will only lock when they are closed or when the delayed locking feature functions.


Delayed Locking When locking the doors with the power lock switch and a door open, the doors will lock five seconds after the last door is closed. You will hear three chimes to signal that the delayed locking feature is in use. Pressing the power lock switch twice or the lock button on the RKE transmitter twice will override the delayed locking feature and immediately lock all the doors. This feature will not operate if the key is in the ignition. This feature can be programmed using the Driver Information Center (DIC). See DELAY DOOR LOCK under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-52.


3-9


Programmable Automatic Door Locks The vehicle is programmed so that when the doors are closed, the ignition is on and the shift lever is moved out of P (Park), all the doors will lock. The doors will unlock every time you stop the vehicle and move the shift lever back into P (Park). If someone needs to exit the vehicle once the doors are locked, have that person use the manual lever or power door lock switch for the rear doors. When the door is closed again, it will not lock automatically. Use the manual lever or the power door lock switch to lock the door. The power door locks can be programmed through the Driver Information Center (DIC). For more information on programming, see DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-52.


Automatic Door Lock The doors will automatically lock when the shift lever is moved out of P (Park). The automatic door locking feature cannot be disabled.


Automatic Door Unlock The doors will automatically unlock when the shift lever is moved into P (Park). The automatic unlock feature can be disabled or programmed in different ways if the vehicle has an automatic transmission. For more information on programming, see DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-52.


3-10


Rear Door Security Locks Security locks are located on the front portion of the 60/40 side swing-out door or the side sliding door.


For the 60/40 side swing-out door, move the button to the right for the driver side door or to the left for the passenger side door to engage the security feature.


Move the button to the left for the driver side door or to the right for the passenger side door to return the door locks to normal operation.


For the side sliding door, move the button up to engage the security feature. Move the button down to return the door locks to normal operation.


60/40 Swing-Out Side Door — Driver Side


shown, Passenger Side


similar


Side Sliding Door


3-11


Lockout Protection This feature protects you from locking the key in the vehicle when the key is in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when either the driver, passenger, or rear door is open, all the doors will lock and then the driver door will unlock. This feature does not include the side cargo door.


Sliding Side Door


To open the sliding side door from the outside, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle and slide the door open. To close the sliding side door from the outside, use the handle to slide the door toward the front of the vehicle. When the door is closed, it will be flush with the side of the body.


3-12


60/40 Swing-Out Side Door


To open the sliding side door from the inside, pull the handle toward the rear of the vehicle. Then, slide the door toward the rear of the vehicle. To close the sliding side door from the inside, grasp the handle and slide the door toward the front of the vehicle. Make sure the door is completely closed before driving away.


To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull out on the handle and open the door.


3-13


To open the front portion of a 60/40 door from the inside, pull the handle toward you and push the door open.


3-14


To open the rear portion of a 60/40 door from the outside, pull the handle on the side of the rear door and pull the door toward you. To close the 60/40 side doors, close the rear door first. Then close the front door. Check to make sure that both doors are completely closed. The front side swing-out door has a check strap assembly in the door frame to keep the door from opening beyond 90 degrees. To open the door beyond 90 degrees, close the door partially, pull the check strap toward you and then open the door. When the door is closed, the check strap will automatically re-engage.


Rear Doors


{ WARNING:


To open the rear doors from the outside, pull the handle toward you to open the passenger side rear door first.


Unlocked doors can be dangerous.


• Passengers, especially children, can easily


open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. The chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash is increased if the doors are not locked. So, all passengers should wear safety belts properly and the doors should be locked whenever the vehicle is driven.


• Young children who get into unlocked vehicles


may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock the vehicle whenever leaving it.


• Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening.


To open the driver side rear door, pull the latch release at the inside edge of the door. To close the rear doors, close the driver side rear door first. Then close the passenger side rear door. Check to make sure both doors are completely closed.


3-15


Windows


{ WARNING:


Leaving children, helpless adults, or pets in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. They can be overcome by the extreme heat and suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child, a helpless adult, or a pet alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.


3-16


Manual Windows Operate the manual windows by turning the hand crank on each door to raise or lower the side door windows.


If the vehicle has power windows, the controls are located on each of the side doors.


Power Windows


{ WARNING:


Leaving children in a vehicle with the keys is dangerous for many reasons, children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function and they could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave keys in a vehicle with children. When there are children in the rear seat use the window lockout button to prevent unintentional operation of the windows.


The driver door has a switch for the passenger window also. The power windows will work when the ignition has been turned to ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY, or when Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) on page 3-23. Press the switch to lower the window. Pull up on the front edge of the switch to raise the window.


3-17


Swing-Out Windows


Express-Down The driver window switch also has an express-down feature that allows the window to be lowered without holding the switch. Press fully and release the window switch marked AUTO to activate the express-down mode. This mode can be cancelled at any time by pulling up on the switch. To open the window part way, lightly tap the switch until the window is at the desired position.


Side Swing-Out Window


To open the side door swing-out window, pull up on the latch at the edge of the window. Swing the window out and push down on the latch to lock the window into place. To close the window, pull the latch toward you and push down on the latch to lock it.


3-18


Rear Swing-Out Windows


The vehicle also has rear swing-out windows. The rear swing-out windows work the same way as the side swing out window, but the latch is located at the bottom edge of the window.


Enhanced Technology Glass The vehicle may be equipped with Enhanced Technology Glass (ETG). ETG is part of the overall occupant protection system on passenger vans. ETG may help to keep passengers sitting next to these fixed windows from being ejected through the glass in some, but not in all crashes. Even with this glass, safety belts must still be worn at all times. For passenger vans, use only ETG glass approved for your vehicle for replacement when damaged. The following table shows laminated glass location, based on vehicle model and options.


Vehicle Configuration


Eight Seat Passenger Vans


Twelve and Fifteen Seat Passenger Vans


Long Wheelbase Cargo Vans


ETG Locations Sliding door forward window Sliding door forward window and rear-most side windows


Rear-most side windows


3-19


Sun Visors To block out glare, swing down the sun visors. You can also swing them to the side. Visor Vanity Mirror The vehicle may have visor vanity mirrors, with or without lamps. Lift the mirror cover to turn the lamps on, if equipped. Theft-Deterrent Systems Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. This vehicle has theft-deterrent features, however, they do not make it impossible to steal.


PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer See Radio Frequency Statement on page 8-18 for information regarding Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and RSS-210/211 of Industry and Science Canada.


PASS-Key® III+ Electronic Immobilizer Operation Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key® III+ (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key® III+ is a passive theft deterrent system. The system is automatically armed when the key is removed from the ignition. You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system. The security light will come on if there is a problem with arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system. When the PASS-Key® III+ system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. The starter will not work and fuel will stop being delivered to the engine. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high number of electrical key codes. If the engine does not start and the security message comes on, the key may have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off and try again.


3-20


If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the instrument panel PASS KEY fuse. If the engine still does not start with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. See Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 6-104. It is possible for the PASS-Key® III+ decoder to learn the transponder value of a new or replacement key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. This procedure is for learning additional keys only. If all the currently programmed keys are lost or do not operate, you must see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have keys made and programmed to the system. See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to get a new key blank that is cut exactly as the ignition key that operates the system.


To program the new key:


1. Verify the new key has 1 stamped on it. 2. Insert the original, already programmed key into


the ignition lock cylinder and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer/retailer for service.


3. After the engine has started, turn the key to


LOCK/OFF and remove the key.


4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to


ON/RUN within 10 seconds of removing the previous key. The security message will turn off once the key has been programmed. It may not be apparent that the security message went on due to how quickly the key is programmed.


5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if additional keys are to


be programmed.


If you lose or damage a PASS-Key® III+ key, see your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key® III+ to have a new key made. Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle.


3-21


Starting and Operating Your Vehicle


New Vehicle Break-In Notice: The vehicle does not need an elaborate break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: (cid:129) Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or less for


the first 500 miles (805 km).


(cid:129) Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or


slow, for the first 500 miles (805 km). Do not make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to brake or slow the vehicle.


(cid:129) Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time the new brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. (cid:129) Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See Towing


a Trailer on page 5-26 for the trailer towing capabilities of the vehicle and more information.


Following break-in, engine speed and load can be gradually increased.


3-22


Ignition Positions


The ignition switch has four different positions.


To shift out of P (Park), the ignition must be in ON/RUN and the regular brake pedal applied.


A (LOCK/OFF): This position locks the ignition and transmission. You will only be able to remove the key when the ignition is turned to LOCK/OFF. Notice: Using a tool to force the key to turn in the ignition could cause damage to the switch or break the key. Use the correct key, make sure it is all the way in, and turn it only with your hand. If the key cannot be turned by hand, see your dealer/retailer.


B (ACC/ACCESSORY): This is the position in which you can operate things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off.


C (ON/RUN): This position can be used to operate the electrical accessories and to display some instrument panel cluster warning and indicator lights. The switch stays in this position when the engine is running.


If you leave the key in the ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN position with the engine off, the battery could be drained. You may not be able to start the vehicle if the battery is allowed to drain for an extended period of time.


D (START): This is the position that starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch returns to ON/RUN for driving.


A warning tone will sound when the driver door is opened, the ignition is in ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF and the key is in the ignition.


Retained Accessory Power (RAP) These vehicle accessories can be used for up to 10 minutes after the engine is turned off: • Audio System • Power Windows (if equipped) These features will work when the ignition key is in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from ON/RUN to LOCK/OFF, power to the radio will continue to work 10 minutes or until the driver door is opened. The power windows will continue to work for up to 10 minutes or until any door is opened.


Starting the Engine If the vehicle has the DURAMAX® Diesel engine, see the DURAMAX® Diesel manual for more information. To place the transmission in the proper gear: Move the shift lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). The engine will not start in any other position. To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only.


3-23


2. If the engine does not start after 5-10 seconds,


especially in very cold weather (below 0°F or −18°C), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for up to 15 seconds. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down. When the engine starts, let go of the key and accelerator. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts.


Notice: The engine is designed to work with the electronics in the vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer/retailer. If you do not, the engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.


Starting Procedure 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently to allow the oil to warm up and lubricate all moving parts. The vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking System. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects components. If the ignition key is turned to the START position, and then released when the engine begins cranking, the engine will continue cranking for a few seconds or until the vehicle starts. If the engine does not start and the key is held in START for many seconds, cranking will be stopped after 15 seconds to prevent cranking motor damage. To prevent gear damage, this system also prevents cranking if the engine is already running. Engine cranking can be stopped by turning the ignition switch to the ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF position.


Notice: Cranking the engine for long periods of time, by returning the key to the START position immediately after cranking has ended, can overheat and damage the cranking motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to let the cranking motor cool down.


3-24


Fast Idle System Fast Idle System with Switch If the vehicle has this feature it is available only with cruise control. The manual fast idle switch is operated using the cruise control buttons located on the left hand side of the steering wheel. This system can be used to increase engine idle speed whenever the following conditions are met: • The park brake is set. • The brake pedal is not pressed. • The vehicle must not be moving and the accelerator


must not be pressed.


To control the fast idle: • To Enable the Fast idle, press and release the Cruise Control On/Off button and ensure that the LED is lit.


• For the preset Fast Idle, press and release the


cruise set switch. This will set the preset fast idle speed.


• For the variable fast idle, press and hold the accelerator at the desired RPM, then press and release the cruise control cruise set switch to set the desired idle speed.


When the fast idle is active the Driver Information Center (DIC) will display “FAST IDLE ON.” One of the following actions will turn off the fast idle: • Pressing the brake. • Selecting the Cancel button. • Releasing the Parking Brake. • The transmission shifter is moved out of P (Park) or


N (Neutral).


• Selecting the cruise control on/off button when it


was previously on.


Engine Coolant Heater If the vehicle has the DURAMAX Diesel engine, see the DURAMAX Diesel manual for more information. The engine coolant heater can provide easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up in cold weather conditions at or below 0°F (−18°C). Vehicles with an engine coolant heater should be plugged in at least four hours before starting. An internal thermostat in the plug-end of the cord may exist which will prevent engine coolant heater operation at temperatures above 0°F (−18°C).


3-25


To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.


The cord for the engine coolant heater is located on the driver side of the engine compartment and is attached to the hose for the power steering reservoir.


3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.


{ WARNING:


Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.


4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and


store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts and prevent damage.


3-26


The length of time the heater should remain plugged in depends on several factors. Ask a dealer/retailer in the area where you will be parking the vehicle for the best advice on this. Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Automatic Transmission) Vehicles with a six speed automatic transmission have a shift position indicator within the instrument panel cluster. There are several different positions for the shift lever.


See “Range Selection Mode” later in this section. P (Park): This position locks the rear wheels. It is the best position to use when starting the engine because the vehicle cannot move easily. When parked on a hill, especially when the vehicle has a heavy load, you might notice an increase in the effort to shift out of P (Park). See Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission) under Shifting Into Park on page 3-36 for more information.


{ 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 engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure 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 3-36. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 5-26.


R (Reverse): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse) while the vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. 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 transmission, see If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 5-16.


N (Neutral): In this position, the engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart when you are already moving, use N (Neutral) only. Also, use N (Neutral) when the vehicle is being towed.


{ WARNING:


Shifting into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Do not shift into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed.


Notice: Shifting out of P (Park) or N (Neutral) with the engine running at high speed may damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at high speed when shifting the vehicle.


3-27


D (Drive): This position is for normal driving. It provides the best fuel economy. If you need more power for passing, and you are: • Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push the


accelerator pedal about halfway down.


• Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the


accelerator all the way down. By doing this, the vehicle shifts down to the next gear and has more power.


D (Drive) can be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load or driving on steep hills. You might want to shift the transmission to a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often. Downshifting the transmission in slippery road conditions could result in skidding. See Skidding under Loss of Control on page 5-9. The vehicle has a shift stabilization feature that adjusts the transmission shifting to the current driving conditions in order to reduce rapid upshifts and downshifts. This shift stabilization feature is designed to determine, before making an upshift, if the engine is able to maintain vehicle speed by analyzing things such as vehicle speed, throttle position, and vehicle load. If the shift stabilization feature determines that a current vehicle speed cannot be maintained, the transmission does not upshift and instead


holds the current gear. In some cases, this could appear to be a delayed shift, however the transmission is operating normally. The transmission uses adaptive shift controls. Adaptive shift controls continually compares key shift parameters to pre-programmed ideal shifts stored in the transmissions computer. The transmission constantly makes adjustments to improve vehicle performance according to how the vehicle is being used, such as with a heavy load or when temperature changes. During this adaptive shift control process, shifting might feel different as the transmission determines the best settings. The shift quality of a new vehicle may not be ideal because the Adaptive Shift Control process may not have determined the best settings for a particular shift or condition. Shift quality will improve with continued driving. When temperatures are very cold, the transmission’s gear shifting could be delayed providing more stable shifts until the engine warms up. Shifts could be more noticeable with a cold transmission. This difference in shifting is normal.


M (Manual Mode): This position lets drivers select the range of gears appropriate for current driving conditions. If the vehicle has this feature, see Range Select Mode later in this section.


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3 (Third): This position is also used for normal driving. It reduces vehicle speed more than D (Drive) without using the brakes. You might choose 3 (Third) instead of D (Drive) when driving on hilly, winding roads, when towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears and when going down a steep hill. See Range Select Mode later in this section.


2 (Second): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than 3 (Third) without using the brakes. You can use 2 (Second) on hills. It can help control vehicle speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use the brakes off and on. See Range Select Mode later in this section.


If you manually select 2 (Second) in an automatic transmission, the transmission will start in second gear. You can use this feature for reducing the speed of the rear wheels when you are trying to start the vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.


1 (First): This position reduces vehicle speed without using the brakes. You can use it for major/severe downgrades where the vehicle would otherwise accelerate due to steepness of grade. When you shift to 1 (First) it provides the lowest gear appropriate to current road speed and continues to downshift as the vehicle slows, eventually downshifting to 1 (First) gear. The transmission can be held in 1 (First) gear using Range Select Mode or the shift lever. See Range Select Mode later in this section.


Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. 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. Range Selection Mode


The vehicle may have a Range Selection Mode. The Range Selection Mode helps control the vehicle’s transmission and vehicle speed while driving down hill or towing a trailer by letting you select a desired range of gears.


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To use this feature, do the following: 1. Move the shift lever to M (Manual Mode). 2. Press the plus/minus buttons, located on the


steering column shift lever, to select the desired range of gears for current driving conditions.


When M (Manual Mode) is selected a number displays in the DIC next to the M indicating the current gear. This number is the highest gear that can be used. However, the vehicle can automatically shift to lower gears as it adjusts to driving conditions. This means that all gears below that number are available. When 5 (Fifth) is selected, 1 (First) through 5 (Fifth) gears are automatically shifted by the vehicle, but 6 (Sixth) cannot be used until the plus/minus button located on the steering column lever is used to change to the gear.


Grade Braking is not available when Range Selection Mode is active. See Tow/Haul Mode on page 3-33. While using Range Selection Mode, cruise control and the Tow/Haul mode can be used. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. 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. Low Traction Mode Low Traction Mode can assist in vehicle acceleration when road conditions are slippery. While the vehicle is at a stop, select the second gear range using Range Selection Mode. This will limit torque to the wheels after it detects wheel slip, preventing the tires from spinning.


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Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Automatic Transmission)


There are several different positions for your shift lever.


P (Park): This position locks your rear wheels. It is the best position to use when you start the engine because the vehicle cannot move easily.


{ 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 engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure 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 3-36. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 5-26.


Make sure the shift lever is fully in P (Park) before starting the engine. The vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You must first press the brake pedal before you can shift from P (Park) with the ignition in ON/RUN. If you cannot shift out of P (Park), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into P (Park) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into another gear. See Shifting Out of Park on page 3-37.


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R (Reverse): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse) while the vehicle is moving forward could damage the transmission. 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 transmission, see If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 5-16.


N (Neutral): In this position, the engine does not connect with the wheels. To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only. Also, use N (Neutral) when the vehicle is being towed.


{ WARNING:


Shifting into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, the vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Do not shift into a drive gear while the engine is running at high speed.


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Notice: Shifting out of P (Park) or N (Neutral) with the engine running at high speed may damage the transmission. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Be sure the engine is not running at high speed when shifting the vehicle.


D (Drive): This position is for normal driving. It provides the best fuel economy. If you need more power for passing, and you are: • Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push the


accelerator pedal about halfway down.


• Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the


accelerator all the way down. You will shift down to the next gear and have more power.


Downshifting the transmission in slippery road conditions could result in skidding, see “Skidding” under Loss of Control on page 5-9.


3 (Third): This position is also used for normal driving. However it reduces vehicle speed more than D (Drive) without using the brakes. You might choose 3 (Third) instead of D (Drive) when driving on hilly, winding roads, when towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears and when going down a steep hill. You should use 3 (Third) (or a lower gear as needed) when towing a trailer to minimize heat build-up and extend the life of the transmission.


2 (Second): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than 3 (Third) without using the brakes. You can use 2 (Second) on hills. It can help control vehicle speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use the brakes off and on.


You may use this feature for reducing torque to the rear wheels when you are trying to start the vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces.


1 (First): This position reduces vehicle speed even more than 2 (Second) without using the brakes. You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in 1 (First) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission will not shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. Notice: Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in one place on a hill using only the accelerator pedal may damage the transmission. 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.


Tow/Haul Mode


Vehicles with an automatic transmission have a tow/haul mode. The tow/haul mode adjusts the transmission shift pattern to reduce shift cycling, providing increased performance, vehicle control, and transmission cooling when towing or hauling heavy loads.


Turn the tow/haul mode on and off by pressing the button, located to the right of the steering wheel on the instrument panel. When tow/haul is on, a light on the instrument panel cluster will come on.


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Cruise Grade Braking (Six Speed Automatic Transmission) Cruise Grade Braking operates only while cruise control is engaged in Tow/Haul mode. Cruise Grade Braking assists in maintaining desired vehicle speeds when driving on downhill grades in cruise control by automatically shifting to lower gears when the cruise set speed is exceeded. While in the Range Selection Mode (RSM) mode, cruise grade braking is not available. See Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Automatic Transmission) on page 3-26 or Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Automatic Transmission) on page 3-31.


See Tow/Haul Mode Light on page 4-36 for more information. Also see “Tow Haul Mode” under Towing a Trailer on page 5-26 for more information. Grade Braking (Six Speed Automatic Transmission) The Grade Braking shift modes can be activated by pressing the tow/haul button on the dash. While in Range Selection Mode, Grade Braking is deactivated allowing the driver to select a desired range of gears. Grade Braking is only active while the Tow/Haul Mode is selected and you are not in the Range Selection Mode. See “Tow/Haul Mode listed previously and Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Automatic Transmission) on page 3-26 or Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Automatic Transmission) on page 3-31 for more information on the Range Selection Mode. Grade Braking assists in maintaining desired vehicle speeds when driving on downhill grades by automatically shifting to lower gears when the driver desires to slow the vehicle by applying the brake. This reduces wear on the braking system and increases control of the vehicle. Also see Towing a Trailer on page 5-26 for more information.


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Parking Brake


To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal, then push down the parking brake pedal.


If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the handle, located just above the parking brake pedal, with the parking brake symbol, to release the parking brake. If the ignition is on when the parking brake is released, the brake system warning light will go off. Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts. Verify that the parking brake is fully released and the brake warning light is off before driving. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 5-26.


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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 engine 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, use the steps that follow. If you are pulling a trailer, see Towing a Trailer on page 5-26.


1. Hold the brake pedal down and set the parking


brake. See Parking Brake on page 3-35


2. Move the shift lever into P (Park) by pulling the


shift lever toward you and moving it up as far as it will go.


3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK/OFF. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can


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


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Leaving the Vehicle With the Engine Running


{ WARNING:


It can be dangerous to leave the vehicle with the engine running. 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 engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running.


If you have to leave the vehicle with the engine running, be sure the vehicle is in P (Park) and the parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you move the shift lever into P (Park), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, 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 If you are parking on a hill and you do not shift the vehicle into P (Park) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of P (Park). This is called torque lock. To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into P (Park) properly before you leave the driver seat. To find out how, see Shifting Into Park on page 3-36. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of P (Park) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of P (Park).


Shifting Out of Park The vehicle has an automatic transmission shift lock control system. You have to fully apply the brakes before you can shift from P (Park) when the ignition is in ON/RUN. See Automatic Transmission Operation (Six Speed Automatic Transmission) on page 3-26 or Automatic Transmission Operation (Four Speed Automatic Transmission) on page 3-31.


The shift lock control system is designed to do the following: • Prevent the ignition key from being removed unless


the shift lever is in P (Park).


• Prevent movement of the shift lever out of P (Park),


unless the ignition is in ON/RUN and the regular brake pedal is applied.


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