1999 Oldsmobile Alero Owners Manual

system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.

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Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers.

Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.

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Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

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If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt.

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The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (4-Door Models) Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.

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To move it down, squeeze the release button and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release button to make sure it has locked into position. Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

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Q: What’s wrong with this?

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

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A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

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The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position” earlier in this section. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your vehicle has “Next Generation” frontal air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Next Generation frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating air bag. But even these air bags must inflate very quickly if they are to do their job and comply with federal regulations. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

CAUTION:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. All air bags -- even Next Generation air bags -- are designed to work with safety belts, but don’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. And, for unrestrained occupants, Next Generation air bags may provide less protection in frontal crashes than more forceful air bags have provided in the past. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.

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CAUTION:

CAUTION:

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. This is true even with Next Generation frontal air bags. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with Next Generation air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. This is true even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag 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 the part of this manual called “Children” and see the caution labels on the sunvisors and the right front passenger’s safety belt.

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

How the Air Bag System Works

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The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.

Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

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CAUTION:

If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.

When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 14 mph (14 to 23 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant.

The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

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In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or near-frontal impacts.

What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.

What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag -- will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

CAUTION:

When an air bag inflates, there is 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 can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

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In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. D Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they

inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

D Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and

diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the system commands air bag inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment.

D Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

NOTICE:

If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.

If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water -- such as water up to the carpeting or higher -- or if water enters your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then you start your vehicle, the damage could make the air bags inflate, even if there’s no crash. You would have to replace the air bags as well as the sensors and related parts. If your vehicle is ever in a flood, or if it’s exposed to water that soaks the carpet, you can avoid needless repair costs by turning off the vehicle immediately and disconnecting the battery cables. Don’t let anyone start the vehicle under any circumstances. See your dealer for service.

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Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

CAUTION:

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

The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

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Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

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1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

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If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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CAUTION:

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

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1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of

the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip.

2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

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3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.

The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.

4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as

described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.

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To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed. Center Passenger Position

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When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies

CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. This is true even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag 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 make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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Infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because an infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a frontal crash, an infant in a rear-facing restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of the infant’s body, the back and shoulders. A baby should be secured in an appropriate infant restraint. This is so important that many hospitals today won’t release a newborn infant to its parents unless there is an infant restraint available for the baby’s first trip in a motor vehicle.

CAUTION:

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or infant restraint.

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CAUTION: (Continued)

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

CAUTION:

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash

CAUTION: (Continued)

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Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. Q: What are the different types of add-on

child restraints?

A: Add-on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.

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An infant car bed (A) is a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle. It’s an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. With an infant car bed, make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle.

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A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear-facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash. Some infant seats come in two parts -- the base stays secured in the vehicle and the seat part is removable.

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A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward-facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age. One type, a convertible restraint, is designed to be used either as a rear-facing infant seat or a forward-facing child seat.

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A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Booster seats with shields use lap-only belts; however, booster seats without shields use lap-shoulder belts. Booster seats can also help a child to see out the window.

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When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s manual and the child restraint instructions are important, so if either one of these is not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer. Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

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CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, but before you do, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It’s better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.

Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

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Canadian law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you. This work will be done for you free of charge. Or, you may install the anchor yourself using the instructions provided in the kit.

Top Strap

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

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You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. 2. 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.

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

5. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position

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You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

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5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push

down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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CAUTION:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat.

Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger

air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.)

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2. Put the 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.

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Larger Children

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Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. D Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out

in a crash.

D Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

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CAUTION:

Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

Q: What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but

be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.

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CAUTION:

Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.

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Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If your seat adjuster won’t work after a crash, the special part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the adjuster may need to be replaced. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, 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. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)

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Section 2 Features and Controls

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Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.

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Keys Door Locks Remote Lock Control (If Equipped) Trunk Theft PasslockR New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Switch Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Burn

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Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked Windows Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Ashtray and Lighter (If Equipped) Sun Visors Auxiliary Power Accessory Outlet Sunroof (If Equipped) Instrument Panel Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

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Keys

CAUTION:

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.

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One key is used for the ignition and all locks.

NOTICE:

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Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft, therefore you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have extra keys.

When a new vehicle is delivered, the key has a bar-coded key tag. This tag may be removed by your dealer before it is delivered. Each tag has a key code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the tag in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have one made easily using this tag. If you need a new key, go to your dealer for the correct key code. In an emergency, call the Oldsmobile Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-442-OLDS (6537). (In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.)

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From the outside, use your key or remote lock control system, if your vehicle is equipped with this feature.

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From the inside, you can lock the door by pushing the locking lever forward. To unlock the door, pull the locking lever rearward.

Door Locks

CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.

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Power Door Locks

With the power door locks, you can unlock or lock all of the doors of your vehicle from the driver or front passenger door lock switch. Push the top of the switch to unlock all of the doors. Push the bottom of the switch to lock all of the doors.

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Automatic Door Locks Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of the doors will lock when you move your shift lever out of PARK (P) to REVERSE (R). If someone needs to get out while the vehicle is running, have that person use the manual or the power door lock. When the door is closed again, it will lock automatically when the vehicle reaches about 5 mph (8 km/h). All doors will automatically unlock when the shift lever is moved to PARK (P) and when the key is turned to OFF. Programmable Automatic Door Locks Programmable Automatic Door Locks is a standard feature intended to provide enhanced security and convenience by automatically locking and unlocking the doors. The automatic locking and unlocking of the doors will occur if the ignition key is turned to ON and the driver’s door is closed when the vehicle is shifted out of PARK (P). One of four operating modes may be selected and programmed by the driver: D Mode 1: All doors automatically lock when the

transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P). The doors will remain locked unless manually unlocked or the lock button is pressed. All doors will unlock when the transaxle is shifted into PARK (P) and the key is turned to OFF.

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D Mode 2: This mode is only available with the remote lock control transmitter. All doors automatically lock when the transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P). Automatic driver’s door only unlock when the transaxle is shifted into PARK(P) and the key is turned to OFF.

2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is in. You can change the mode by pressing and holding LOCK on the power door lock switch (two chimes for mode 2, three chimes for mode 3 and four chimes for mode 4).

D Mode 3: All doors automatically lock when the

transaxle is shifted out of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock.

D Mode 4: No automatic door lock or unlock. The Programmable Automatic Door Locks will be in operating mode 1 when the vehicle is shipped from the factory. Disconnecting the vehicle battery for up to one year will not change the programmed mode of the Programmable Automatic Door Locks. The operating mode of the Programmable Automatic Door Locks will be changed when the driver performs the following sequence with the doors closed and the vehicle’s ignition key is turned to ON. To change the mode: 1. Press and hold LOCK on the power door lock switch

for 10 seconds.

3. Repeat Step 1 until you hear the number of chimes

that matches the mode you want.

The mode you selected is now set.

Delayed Locking The Delayed Locking feature is standard and makes it easier to use your power door locks at any time either manually or with the power door lock switches. When the driver leaves the vehicle and pushes the power door lock switch to LOCK, three chimes will be heard. The doors will not lock. Seven seconds after the driver’s door has been closed, all of the doors will lock, the lamps will flash and the horn will chirp. If the driver opens another door before the seven seconds, the doors will not lock until seven seconds after the last door is closed. If the power door lock switch is pressed to LOCK twice when leaving the vehicle, the doors will lock immediately.

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Rear Door Security Locks (4-Door Models)

Your vehicle is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside.

The switch is located on the inside of the rear door. To use the security locks: 1. Move the switch up. 2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thing on the other rear door. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on: 1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2. Then open the door from the outside.

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If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and older children know how these security locks work, and how to cancel the locks. To cancel the rear door lock: 1. Unlock the door from the inside and open it from

the outside.

2. Move the switch down. 3. Do the same for the other rear door. The rear doors will now work normally. Anti-Lockout Protection Anti-Lockout Protection is a standard feature intended to provide enhanced security and convenience. This feature prevents a driver who has left the keys in the ignition from locking the doors using the power door locks while any door is open. To override this feature, when the key is in the ignition and a door is open, hold the power door lock switch in the lock position for three seconds.

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Your remote lock control operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. 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.

This feature cannot guarantee that you will never be locked out of your vehicle. If you don’t leave the keys in the ignition, if you use the manual door lock, or if you use the remote lock control transmitter (if equipped), you could still lock your keys inside your vehicle. Always remember to take your keys with you. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving your vehicle, open your door and set the locks from the inside, then get out and close the door. Remote Lock Control (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote lock control transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

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This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: D Check to determine if battery replacement or

resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow.

D Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.

D 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.

D If you’re still having trouble, see your dealer or a

qualified technician for service.

Operation The following functions are available with the remote lock control system: LOCK: All doors will automatically lock when the LOCK button on the transmitter is pressed. The interior lamps will turn off after all of the doors are closed. UNLOCK: The driver’s door will unlock automatically when the UNLOCK button on the transmitter is pressed. If the UNLOCK button is pressed again within five seconds, all remaining doors will unlock. The interior lamps will stay on for 10 seconds or until the ignition is turned on. Trunk Release: The trunk will unlock anytime when the button with the vehicle symbol on the transmitter is pressed, the trunk lockout is not engaged and the gear selector is in PARK (P) or the parking brake is engaged. The interior lamps will come on for 10 seconds or until the ignition switch is turned to ON. Horn Symbol: The horn will sound and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up to one minute when the horn symbol on the transmitter is pressed. This can be turned off by pressing the horn symbol button again or by turning the ignition to ON.

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You can match your transmitter to as many 1999 General Motors vehicles as you own, as long as they have the same remote lock control system. Contact your dealer for assistance with this. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote lock control transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

NOTICE:

When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.

Programmable Horn Chirp When you use the remote lock control transmitter to lock the doors or use the delayed locking feature the parking lamps will flash and the horn will chirp. The programmable horn chirp can be disabled by pressing and holding either of the door lock switches in the unlock position for 10 seconds with the ignition ON and all of the doors closed. When you hear the horn chirp, programming is complete. To reactivate the horn chirp feature, repeat the above procedure. Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote lock control transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters matched to it.

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3. Put the two halves back together. Make sure the

cover is on tightly, so water won’t get in.

4. Resynchronize and then test the transmitter. Resynchronization Your keyless entry system is equipped with a security system that prevents anyone from recording and playing back your signal. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal that has been sent to it more than once. To resynchronize your transmitter and receiver, follow these directions: 1. Stand close to your vehicle. 2. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on

the transmitter at the same time.

3. Hold the buttons for five seconds. In this time, the doors should lock and unlock once. This confirms the resynchronization. If the doors do not lock and unlock, see your dealer for service.

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To replace the battery in the remote lock control transmitter: 1. Use a small coin or flathead screwdriver to separate the bottom half from the top half of the transmitter. 2. Remove the battery and replace it with the new one. Make sure the positive (+) side of the battery faces down. Use one three-volt, CR2032, or equivalent, type battery.

Trunk

Remote Trunk Release

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CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid: D Make sure all other windows are shut. D Turn the fan on your heating or cooling

system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index.

D If you have air outlets on or under the

instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

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The remote trunk release button is located on the driver’s door. Push the remote release button to release the trunk lid. Make sure the lockout feature is not activated.

Remote Trunk Release Lockout Your trunk release is equipped with a lockout feature to help prevent unauthorized entry into the trunk when the vehicle is left unattended. The switch is located on the inside of the trunk lid, mounted to the trunk lid latch.

To turn the lockout on, slide the switch all the way to the left, to ON. To turn the lockout off, slide the switch all the way to the right, to OFF.

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When the lockout is on, the remote trunk release button on the driver’s door will not release the trunk lid. However, the trunk lid can still be opened with the key, but not with the remote lock control transmitter (if equipped). Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your ignition and transaxle will be locked. And remember to lock the doors.

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Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. Passlock enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a valid key. If a correct key is not used or the ignition lock cylinder is tampered with, fuel is disabled. During normal operation, the will go off approximately five seconds after the key is turned to the ON ignition position. If the engine stalls and the SECURITY light flashes, wait until the light stops flashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release the key from START as soon as the engine starts. If the engine is running and the SECURITY light comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock system is not working properly and must be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock at this time. You may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). See your dealer for service. In an emergency, call the Oldsmobile Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-442-OLDS (6537). (In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.)

Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your key? D If possible, park in a busy, well lit area. D Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk

or glove box. Be sure to close and lock the storage area.

D Close all windows. D Move the trunk release lockout switch to the

ON position.

D Lock the glove box. D Lock all the doors except the driver’s. D If your vehicle has a remote lock control, take the

transmitter with you.

PasslockR Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system.

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New Vehicle “Break-In”

Ignition Switch

NOTICE:

CAUTION:

Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: D Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts.

D Avoid making hard stops for the first

Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in the vehicle with children.

200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t 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.

D Don’t tow a trailer during break-in.

See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

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ACC (Accessory) (B): This position unlocks the transaxle. It also lets you use things like the radio and windshield wipers when the engine is not running. To use ACC, turn the key to the right. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed, but never try to push-start your vehicle. ON (C): This position is where the key returns after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in ON when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use ON to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel warning lights. START (D): This position starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to ON for normal driving.

NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in OFF and you can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? Turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.

With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions. OFF (A): Before you put the key into the ignition switch, the switch is off. It is the only position from which you can remove the key. This position locks your ignition and transaxle. A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is off and the key is in the ignition.

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Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE:

Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

Starting Your 2.4 Liter L4 Engine 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine warms up.

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NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.

2. If the engine doesn’t start right away, and if the weather is very cold (below -20_ F or -29_ C), push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down while you turn the key to START. Do this until the engine starts. As soon as it does, let go of the key.

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Starting Your 3400 V6 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in

START. If it doesn’t start in three seconds (or starts but then stops), push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down for 12 more seconds, or until it starts.

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for a maximum of 15 seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. If the engine still won’t start or starts briefly but then stops again, repeat step 1 or 2, depending on temperature. When the engine starts, release the key and the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try this: Wait 15 seconds to let the starter motor cool down. Then push your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor. Hold it there. Then hold the key in START. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal. If the engine still doesn’t start, wait another 15 seconds and repeat this step.

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NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

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2.4L L4 Engine

3400 V6 Engine

In very cold weather, 0_F (-18_C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.

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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. If you don’t, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

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

the 2.4L L4 engine, the engine coolant heater cord is located in front of the engine coolant surge tank. On the 3400 V6 engine, the engine coolant heater cord is located near the air cleaner/filter.

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

CAUTION:

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 won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

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Automatic Transaxle Operation

Your automatic transaxle has a shift lever located on the console between the seats.

PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

CAUTION:

It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your 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 your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” later in this section. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

CAUTION:

Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.

NOTICE:

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “Stuck In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

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THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): D When driving on hilly, winding roads. D When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears.

D When going down a steep hill. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: D Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push your

accelerator pedal about halfway down.

D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

NOTICE:

If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or if it seems not to shift gears as you go faster, something may be wrong with a transaxle system sensor. If you drive very far that way, your vehicle can be damaged. So, if this happens, have your vehicle serviced right away. Until then, you can use SECOND (2) when you are driving less than 35 mph (55 km/h) and AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) for higher speeds.

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NOTICE:

NOTICE:

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Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (41 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) or THIRD (3) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h) or you can damage your engine.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You can damage your transaxle. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transaxle. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

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To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake handle up until you can press the release button. Hold the release button in as you move the brake handle all the way down.

NOTICE:

Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.

If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

Parking Brake

To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Pull up on the parking brake handle. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

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2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position

like this: D Hold in the button on the handle. D Push the handle all the way toward the front of

the vehicle.

3. Turn the ignition key to OFF. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

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Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) 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. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pushing the button. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

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Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) 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 transaxle, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). Shifting Out of PARK (P)

CAUTION:

Before shifting out of PARK (P) you must fully apply your regular brakes. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle

CAUTION: (Continued)

CAUTION: (Continued)

can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in ON. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the ignition key to ACC. 2. Apply and hold the regular brake until the end

of Step 5.

3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle. 5. Shift to the drive gear you want. 6. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.

Parking Over Things That Burn

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CAUTION:

Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.

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Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

CAUTION:

Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

Engine Exhaust

CAUTION:

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: D Your exhaust system sounds strange

or different.

D Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. D Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. D Your vehicle was damaged when driving

over high points on the road or over road debris.

D Repairs weren’t done correctly. D Your vehicle or exhaust system had been

modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: D Drive it only with all the windows down to

blow out any CO; and

D Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

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CAUTION:

It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Windows Manual Windows On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (If Equipped)

The power window switches are located on the armrest of the driver’s door. In addition, each passenger door has a switch for its own window.

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Auto-Down Switch The driver’s window switch has an auto-down feature. This switch is labeled AUTO. Push the top of the switch partway, and the driver’s window will open a small amount. If the switch is pushed all the way, the window will go all the way down. To stop the window while it is lowering, push the switch forward. To raise the window, push and hold the switch forward. Lock-Out Switch On four-door models, the driver’s power window controls also include a lock-out switch. When the lockout switch is moved to the left (with the white stripe showing), the driver and passengers will be able to use their window switches. Move the lockout switch to the right to stop the passengers from using their window switches. The driver can still control all the windows with the lock on. Horn You can sound the horn by pressing the horn symbol on your steering wheel.

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Tilt Wheel

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A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: D Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator D Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer D Park Lamps and Headlamps

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Turn Signal On Chime If your turn signal is left on for more than 3/4 of a mile (1.2 km), a chime will sound at each flash of the turn signal. To turn off the chime, move the turn signal lever to the off position. Turn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.

An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.

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As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows flash rapidly, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and then check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer

To change the headlamps from low beam to high beam, pull on the turn signal/multifunction lever all of the way toward you. Then release it.

When the high beams are on, a light on the instrument panel also will be on. Flash-to-Pass This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass.

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To use it, pull the turn signal/multifunction lever toward you until the high-beam headlamps come on, then release the lever to turn them off. Windshield Wipers

You control the windshield wipers by moving the stalk with the wiper symbol on it up or down. For a single wiper cycle, push the stalk down to MIST, then release it. For more cycles, hold the stalk down longer.

For steady wiping at low speed, move the stalk up to the LO position. For high-speed wiping, move the stalk up further, to HI. To stop the wipers, move the stalk to OFF. You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Move the stalk to INT, then turn the inner band, labeled INT ADJ, and choose the delay you want. Rotate the inner band up for shorter delay times between wiper cycles. Rotate the band down for a longer delay time between wiper cycles. Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.

Windshield Washer

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To wash your windshield, push in the button at the end