1999 Oldsmobile Alero Owners Manual

of the stalk until the washers begin.

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CAUTION:

In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.

When you release the button, the washers will stop, but the wipers will continue to wipe for about three times or will resume the speed you were using before.

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Cruise Control

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The cruise control buttons are located on the steering wheel. With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes or the parking brake or the BRAKE light is on or you have low brake fluid, the cruise control will turn off.

CAUTION:

D Cruise control can be dangerous where you

can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.

D Cruise control can be dangerous on

slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don’t use cruise control on slippery roads.

If your vehicle is in cruise control when the enhanced traction system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. (See “Enhanced Traction System” in the Index.) When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may turn the cruise control back on.

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Setting Cruise Control

CAUTION:

If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use it.

1. Press the cruise control ON OFF button. The

indicator light on the button will turn on.

2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Press the CST SET button and release it. The

CRUISE light on the instrument panel will come on.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can press the cruise control RES ACCL button for about half a second. You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. If you press the RES ACCL button longer than half a second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the button or apply the brake. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold down the RES ACCL button.

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed. D Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed.

Push the CST SET button, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.

D Press the RES ACCL button. Hold it there until

you get up to the speed you want, and then release the button. To increase your speed in very small amounts, press the RES ACCL button for less than half a second and then release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.

The accelerate feature will only work after you turn on the cruise control by pushing the CST SET button.

Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: D Push the CST SET button until you reach the lower

speed you want, then release it.

D To slow down in very small amounts, push the CST

SET button for less than half a second. Each time you do this, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

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

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Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills.

Ending Out of Cruise Control There are four ways to turn off the cruise control: D Step on the brake pedal. D Press the cruise control RES ACCL button and the

CST SET buttons at the same time.

D Press the cruise control CANCEL button. D Press the cruise control ON OFF button. The

indicator light on the cruise control button will turn off.

Erasing the Cruise Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, your cruise control set speed memory is erased.

Exterior Lamps

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Turn the turn signal lever end cap up one position to turn on your: D Parking Lamps D Side Marker Lamps D Taillamps D License Plate Lamps D Instrument Panel Lights

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The DRL system will make your high-beam headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when: D the ignition is on, D the headlamp switch is in OFF or you have turned on

your parking lamps,

D the light sensor detects daytime light, D the parking brake is released and D the shift lever is not in PARK (P). When the DRL system is on, the taillamps, sidemarker lamps, park lamps and instrument panel lights will not be illuminated. The DRL system will remain off any time your vehicle is in PARK (P) or the parking brake is engaged and the vehicle speed is less than 3 mph (1.9 km/h). As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.

Turn the turn signal lever end cap up two positions to turn on your: D Headlamps D Parking Lamps D Sidemarker Lamps D Taillamps D License Plate Lamps D Instrument Panel Lights Turn the switch to OFF to turn all of the lamps off. Lamps On Reminder If you turn off the ignition and open the driver’s door while leaving the lamps on, you will hear a warning chime. Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset.

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Automatic Light Control (ALC) When it is dark enough outside, your Automatic Light Control (ALC) will turn on your headlamps along with other lamps such as the taillamps, sidemarker lamps, park lamps and the instrument panel lights. The radio lights will also be dim. Your vehicle is equipped with a light sensor on the top of the instrument panel under the defroster grill, so be sure it is not covered. This will cause the ALC system to be on whenever the ignition is on. The ALC system may also come on when driving through a parking garage, heavy overcast weather or a tunnel. This is normal. There is a delay in the transition between the daytime and nighttime operation of the DRL and the ALC systems so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system. The DRL and ALC systems will only be affected when the light sensor sees a change in lighting lasting longer than this delay. To idle your vehicle with the ALC system off, set the parking brake while the ignition is off. Then start the vehicle. The ALC system will stay off until you release the parking brake. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.

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Delayed Headlamps The delayed headlamps feature will continue to illuminate the headlamps for 20 seconds after the key is turned to OFF. To turn off the delayed headlamps feature, turn the turn signal/multifunction lever up one position and then back to OFF. Fog Lamps (If Equipped) The button for your fog lamps is located on the instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel, beside the instrument panel intensity control. When using the fog lamps, the ignition must be on as well as the parking lamps or the low-beam headlamps. Push the button to turn the fog lamps on. An indicator light on the button will glow when the fog lamps are on. Push the button again to turn the fog lamps off. The fog lamps will turn off whenever the high-beam headlamps are turned on. When the high beams are turned off, the fog lamps will come on again.

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Illuminated Entry/Exit System When you lift the driver’s door handle or open the driver’s door, the lamps inside your vehicle will go on. These lamps will fade out after about 10 seconds, or when the ignition is turned on after all doors have been closed. These lamps will also go on when you press the trunk release or UNLOCK button on the remote lock control transmitter (if equipped). The lamps inside your vehicle will stay on for about 10 seconds after your key is removed from the ignition to provide an illuminated exit.

Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control

You can brighten or dim the instrument panel cluster lights by moving the thumbwheel up to increase intensity and to down to decrease intensity. The thumbwheel is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.

Courtesy Lamp Control When the thumbwheel for the instrument panel intensity control is moved up, the dome lamp, the mirror reading lamps (if equipped) and the footwell lamps will turn on. Move the thumbwheel down to turn the lamps off.

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Mirror Reading Lamps (If Equipped)

Press the switch on the lower front portion of the mirror to turn on the lamps. Press the other side of the switch to turn the lamps off. Three-Position Dome Lamp The switch on this lamp has three positions. The ON position will turn on the light. The DOOR position will turn on the light whenever a door is opened or when the instrument panel intensity control thumbwheel is moved up. The OFF position will shut off the lamp completely, even when a door is opened.

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Trunk Lamp The trunk lamp comes on when you open your trunk. Battery Saver Your vehicle is equipped with a battery saver feature designed to protect your vehicle’s battery. When any interior lamp (trunk, mirror reading lamps, footwell, dome lamp or glove box) is left on when the ignition is turned off, the battery saver system will automatically shut the lamp off after 20 minutes. This will avoid draining the battery. To reactivate the interior lamps, do one of the following: D Lift the driver’s door handle. D Open any door. D Press any remote lock control transmitter button

(if equipped).

D Press the power door lock switch. D Press the remote trunk release.

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Mirrors Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror

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Manual Remote Control Mirror The outside rearview mirror should be adjusted so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. Adjust the driver’s side outside mirror with the control lever on the driver’s door. To adjust your passenger’s side mirror, sit in the driver’s seat and have a passenger adjust the mirror for you.

This mirror can be adjusted two ways. First, to adjust the angle of the mirror, move the mirror to a position that allows you see to out the back window. To adjust the height of the mirror, adjust the arm that connects the mirror to the windshield. To reduce glare from lights behind you, move the lever toward you to the night position. To return the mirror to the daytime position, move the lever away from you.

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Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.

CAUTION:

A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

Power Remote Control Mirror (If Equipped)

This selector controls both outside rearview mirrors.

Select the mirror you want to adjust by moving the switch to the right or the left. Press any of the four arrow buttons to move the mirror in the direction desired. Adjust each mirror so that you can see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position.

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Storage Compartments Glove Box Use the key to lock and unlock the glove box. To open, pull the glove box handle up. Center Console Storage Area The center console has two separate storage areas. To open, pull up on the lid. Rear Seat Cupholders Pull down the door on the rear of the center console to use the rear seat cupholders.

Convenience Net (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it just inside the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops. The net isn’t for larger, heavier loads. Store them in the trunk as far forward as you can. You can unhook the net so that it will lie flat when you’re not using it.

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Ashtray and Lighter (If Equipped) To use the lighter, just push it in all the way and let go.

NOTICE:

NOTICE:

Don’t put papers and other things that burn into your ashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage.

Don’t hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating. If you do, it won’t be able to back away from the heating element when it’s ready. That can make it overheat, damaging the lighter and the heating element.

You can also remove the cigarette lighter to plug in additional accessories. Be sure to follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical accessory you install.

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Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also remove them from the center mount and swing them to the side, to block out glare from the side. All models are equipped with sun visors that can be extended by sliding the support rod, thus giving twice the coverage. Visor Vanity Mirror Swing down the sun visor and lift the cover to expose the vanity mirror.

Auxiliary Power Accessory Outlet

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The auxiliary power accessory outlet is located to the left of the glovebox on the lower side of the instrument panel and behind a flip-out door. The power outlet can be used to plug electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone, CD player, CB radio, etc. Follow the proper installation instructions that are inlcuded with any electrical equipment you install.

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The sunroof glass panel cannot be opened or closed if your vehicle has an electrical failure.

NOTICE:

Do not attempt to force the sunshade forward of the sliding glass panel. Damage will occur and the sunroof may not open or close properly.

Sunroof (If Equipped) Open the sunshade by hand when using the vent position. To use the vent position of the sunroof, push the switch back and release it. This is the express-vent mode of the sunroof. To fully open the sunroof, push the switch back again and release. This is the express-open mode of the sunroof and sunshade. To close the sunroof, push the switch forward and hold it until the sunroof is closed. The sunroof will stop if the switch is released during operation. If desired, you may close the sunshade by hand.

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Instrument Panel

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Your instrument panel is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and many other things you’ll need to drive safely and economically. The main components of your instrument panel are: A. Fuse Panels B. Vents C. Instrument Cluster D. Hazard Warning Button E. Audio System F. Climate Control G. Auxiliary Power Accessory Outlet H. Cigarette Lighter/Power Accessory Outlet I. Parking Brake

J. Transaxle Shift Lever K. Enhanced Traction System Switch L. Windshield Wiper/Washer Lever M. Ignition Switch N. Cruise Control Switches (If Equipped) O. Tilt Wheel Lever P. Hood Release Handle Q. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever R. Instrument Panel Intensity Control

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Instrument Panel Cluster Your vehicle is equipped with this cluster or one very similar to it. It includes indicator warning lights and gages that are explained on the following pages. Be sure to read about them.

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Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Your vehicle has a tamper resistant odometer. The digital odometer will read 999,999 if someone tries to turn it back. You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. If the new one can be set to the mileage total of the old odometer, then it must be. But if it can’t, then it’s set at zero and a label must be put on the driver’s door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed.

Trip Odometer The trip odometer can tell you how far you have driven since you last reset it. The reset button is located below the tachometer. To reset the trip odometer to zero, press and hold briefly the ribbed side of the button. Also, by pressing this button for less than one second you can toggle between the odometer and the trip odometer.

Tachometer

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The tachometer shows your engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm).

NOTICE:

Do not run your engine at speeds in the red area, or engine damage may occur.

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Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on briefly when you start the engine just to let you know they’re working. If you are familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed when this happens. Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let you know when there’s a problem with your vehicle.

When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They’re a big help. Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to ON or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is already buckled.

The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 20 seconds, then it will flash for about 55 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on.

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Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” in the Index.

This light will come on when you start your engine, and it will flash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready.

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to ON. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

Charging System Indicator Light

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The charging system indicator light will come on when you turn on the ignition, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you it is working.

When the engine is running, the light should go out. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving and you hear a chime, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system. It could indicate that you have a loose generator drive belt or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery. If you must drive a short distance with the light on, be certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.

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Brake System Warning Light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.

This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to ON. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

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United States

Canada

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CAUTION:

Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on after you’ve pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.

When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will also come on when you set your parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means you have a brake problem.

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

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United States

Canada

With the anti-lock brake system, this light will come on when you start your engine and it will stay on for three seconds. That’s normal.

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If the light stays on, turn the ignition to OFF. Or, if the light comes on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a problem with your regular brakes. See “Brake System Warning Light” earlier in this section. The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to ON. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

Enhanced Traction System Warning Light

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With the Enhanced Traction System (ETS), this warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. If the warning light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your Enhanced Traction System and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.

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The Enhanced Traction System warning light may come on for the following reasons: D If you turn the system off by pressing the ETS button

on the center console near the gear shift lever, the warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the system back on, press the button again. The warning light should go off. (See “Enhanced Traction System” in the Index for more information.)

D The warning light will come on when you set your parking brake with the engine running, and it will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If the system is turned on and the warning light stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means there’s a problem with the system.

D If the traction control system is affected by an

engine-related problem, the system will turn off and the warning light will come on.

If the Enhanced Traction System warning light comes on and stays on for an extended period of time when the system is turned on and the parking brake is fully released, your vehicle needs service.

Enhanced Traction System Active Light

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When your Enhanced Traction System is limiting wheel spin, this light will come on. Slippery road conditions may exist if the Enhanced Traction System active light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few seconds after the Enhanced Traction System stops limiting wheel spin. This light will also come on when the anti-lock brake system is working. The Enhanced Traction System active light also comes on briefly when you turn the ignition key to ON. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be there to tell you when the system is active.

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Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

Low Coolant Warning Light

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This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, the light comes on and you hear a chime, your engine is too hot! It means that your engine coolant has overheated.

This light comes on briefly when you turn your ignition on.

In “Problems on the Road,” of this manual shows what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

If this light comes on and stays on and you hear a chime, the vehicle should promptly be pulled off the road and the coolant level checked. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index. If there are visible signs of steam, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index before opening the hood. Have your vehicle serviced as soon as you can.

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Low Tire Pressure Light (If Equipped)

The tire pressure monitor system can alert you to a large change in the pressure in one tire. After the system has “learned” tire pressures with properly inflated tires, the LOW TIRE PRESSURE light will come on if the pressure in one tire becomes 12 psi (83 kPa) lower than the other three tires. The tire pressure monitor system won’t alert you if the pressure in more than one tire is low, if the system is not yet calibrated, or if the vehicle is moving at less than 15 mph (25 km/h), faster than 75 mph (120 km/h), on rough roads or during turns. The light may also come on if you are driving on partially cleared pavement.

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When the LOW TIRE PRESSURE light comes on, you should stop as soon as you can and check all your tires for damage. (If a tire is flat, see “If a Tire Goes Flat” in the Index.) Also check the tire pressure in all four tires as soon as you can. See “Inflation - Tire Pressure” in the Index. The light will stay on until you turn off the ignition or reset the system. See “Tire Pressure Monitor System” in the Index. The LOW TIRE PRESSURE light also comes on briefly when you turn the ignition key to ON. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be there to tell you if the pressure in a tire is low or high. If the anti-lock brake system warning light comes on, the tire pressure monitor system may not be working. See your dealer for service. (Also, see “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index).

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light in the United States or Check Engine Light in Canada)

United States

Canada

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction. 2-62

NOTICE:

If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.

NOTICE:

Modifications made to the engine, transaxle, exhaust or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls and may cause the SERVICE ENGINE SOON or the CHECK ENGINE light to come on. Modifications to these systems could lead to costly repairs not covered by your warranty. This may also result in a failure to pass a required Emission Inspection/Maintenance test.

This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: D Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been

detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required.

D Light On Steady -- An emission control system malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required.

If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: D Reducing vehicle speed. D Avoiding hard accelerations. D Avoiding steep uphill grades. D If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of

cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

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If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service.

If the Light Is On Steady You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. See “Filling Your Tank” in the Index. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off. Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water? If so, your electrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off.

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Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see “Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on. If you experience one or more of these conditions, change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. If none of the above steps have made the light turn off, have your dealer or qualified service center check the vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed.

Oil Pressure Light

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If you have a low engine oil pressure problem, this light will stay on after you start your engine, or come on and you will hear a chime when you are driving.

This indicates that your engine is not receiving enough oil. The engine could be low on oil, or could have some other oil problem. Have it fixed immediately. When the ignition is on but the engine is not running, the light will come on as a test to show you it is working, but the light will go out when the engine is running. If it doesn’t come on with the ignition on, you may have a problem with the fuse or bulb. Have it fixed right away.

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CAUTION:

Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced.

NOTICE:

Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty.

Low Oil Light (If Equipped)

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If your vehicle is equipped with a 3400 V6 engine, then you will have a LOW OIL light in your instrument panel cluster.

This light will come on briefly when you start your vehicle. If the light stays on after starting your vehicle, or comes on and chimes while you are driving, your engine oil level should be checked. Prior to checking the oil level, be sure your vehicle has been shut off for several minutes and is on a level surface. Check the oil level on your dipstick and bring it to the proper level. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. NOTE: A false LOW OIL light may be generated when parking on steep grades. The oil level monitoring system only checks oil level during the brief period between when the key is on and the engine is cranking. It does not monitor engine oil level when the engine is running. Additionally, an oil level check is only performed if the engine has been turned off for a considerable period of time allowing the oil normally in circulation to drain back into the oil pan.

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Change Oil Light

Security Light

The CHANGE OIL light should come on briefly as a bulb check when you start the engine. If the light doesn’t come on, have it serviced.

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This light will come on when you turn the key to ON and will stay on until the vehicle starts.

If the CHANGE OIL light comes on and stays on after you start the engine, have the oil changed. For additional information, see “Engine Oil, When to Change” in the Index. To reset the Oil Life Monitor, see “Engine Oil Life Monitor” in the Index.

If you’re driving and the security light comes on and remains on, your PasslockR system is not working properly. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock and you should see your dealer.

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Cruise Light (If Equipped)

Service Vehicle Soon Light

The CRUISE light comes on whenever you set your cruise control.

This light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition.

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Low Washer Light

It will stay on, or come on and a chime will sound if it detects a problem on the vehicle, such as a DRL or an ALC malfunction. If this happens, see your dealer as soon as possible.

United States

Canada

This light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition. It will also stay on, or come on and a chime will sound, if the fluid reservoir is less than one-third full.

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Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem with your fuel gage: D At the service station, the gas pump shuts off before

the gage reads full.

D It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank.

D The gage moves a little when you turn a corner or

speed up.

D The gage goes back to empty when you turn off

the ignition.

Fuel Gage

United States

Canada

Your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left, when the ignition is on. When the indicator nears empty, the light will come on and you will hear a chime. You still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon.

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Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

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In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.

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Comfort Controls Climate Control System with Air Conditioning Air Conditioning Heating Defogging and Defrosting Windows Rear Window Defogger Ventilation System Audio Systems Setting the Clock AM-FM Stereo AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player with Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped) Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped) Understanding Radio Reception Tips About Your Audio System Care of Your Cassette Tape Player Care of Your Compact Discs Care of Your Compact Disc Player Backglass Antenna

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Temperature Knob The center control knob regulates the temperature of the air coming through the system.

Mode Knob The right control knob changes the functions of your system.

VENT: In this position most of the airflow comes through the instrument panel outlets. A small amount of air comes through the floor vents. Set the center control knob to the temperature desired.

BI-LEVEL: In this position the airflow comes through the instrument panel outlets and through the floor outlets. Set the center control knob to the temperature desired.

FLOOR: In this position most of the airflow

comes through the floor outlet. The rest of the air comes through the windshield and side window vents. Set the center control knob to the temperature desired.

Comfort Controls With this system, you can control the ventilation and heating in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. Climate Control System with Air Conditioning

Fan Knob The left control knob sets the fan speed. To select the force of air you want, turn the knob.

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 DEFOG: This position divides the airflow

between the floor outlets and the windshield defroster vent. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically in this position when it is needed to help dry the air in the vehicle.

FRONT DEFROSTER: This position directs

most of the airflow through the window defroster vent. Some of the air goes to the floor outlets. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically in this position when it is needed to help dry the air in the vehicle.

OUTSIDE AIR: Press this button to force the

system to use outside air. Pressing the OUTSIDE AIR button will cancel the RECIRCULATION button.

RECIRCULATION: Press this button to limit the amount of fresh air entering your vehicle. This is helpful when you are trying to limit odors entering your vehicle. Press it again to turn off the recirculation. Pressing the RECIRCULATION button will cancel the OUTSIDE AIR button.

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Air Conditioning Compressor Button Press A/C to operate the air conditioner compressor. The indicator light will glow when the button is pressed to indicate that the air conditioning system has been turned on. The fan knob must be set to a speed. Air Conditioning The air conditioner and heater work best if you keep your windows closed while using them. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. On very hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down, which should help fuel economy. On cool, but sunny days, the sun may warm your upper body, but your lower body may not be warm enough. You can use BI-LEVEL with the temperature knob in the middle and the A/C indicator light glowing. The system will bring in outside air and direct slightly warmer air to your lower body. For normal cooling on hot days, use VENT with the temperature knob in the blue area and the A/C indicator light glowing. The system will bring in outside air and cool it.

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If you select RECIRCULATION while in the VENT, BI-LEVEL or FLOOR modes, humid air can recirculate inside the vehicle and allow moisture to form on the windows. If this happens either press the A/C button to on or select FRONT DEFROSTER or the DEFOG modes. Your vehicle is equipped with side window defogger vents. The side window defogger vents are located on the outside of the side instrument panel vents. To defrost the side windows, turn the temperature control knob all the way in the red area. Use FLOOR and adjust the fan to the highest speed. To control fogging of the windows, turn the temperature control knob all the way in the red area. Use DEFOG and adjust the fan to the highest speed. To defog the side windows while using air conditioning, use BI-LEVEL and adjust the fan to the highest speed and press the A/C button so that the indicator light is glowing. For added airflow to the side windows aim the side vents toward the windows and close the center vents.

Heating On cold days, use FLOOR and the outside air button with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air, heat it and send it to the floor outlets. Your vehicle has heat ducts that are directed toward the rear seat. Keep the area under the front seats clear of obstructions so that the heated air can reach the rear seat passengers. If your vehicle has an engine coolant heater, you can use it to help your system provide warm air faster when it’s cold outside (0_F (-18_C) or lower). An engine coolant heater warms the coolant your engine and heating system use to provide heat. See “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. Defogging and Defrosting Windows Your system has two settings for clearing the front and side windows. For each setting, adjust the temperature control as desired. To defrost the front window quickly, turn the temperature control knob all the way in the red area. Use FRONT DEFROST and adjust the fan to the highest speed. To warm passengers while keeping the front window clean, use DEFOG.

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Do not attach a temporary vehicle license across the defogger grid on the rear window.

NOTICE:

Don’t use a razor blade or anything else sharp on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage the warming grid, and the repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

Rear Window Defogger

The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window.

Press the defogger button. The indicator light will glow. The rear window defogger will turn itself off after about 10 minutes after the first time the button is pressed, and after five minutes each additional time the button is pressed. You can turn the defogger off by pressing the button again or turning off the ignition.

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You can direct the airflow side to side by moving the sliding levers. The outlet can be tilted up and down also. To control the amount of airflow through the outlets, rotate the thumbwheel.

Ventilation Tips D Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction, such as leaves. The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

D When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, adjust the

mode knob to FLOOR and the fan to the highest speed for a few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

D Keep the air path under the front seats clear of

objects. This helps air circulate throughout your vehicle.

D To prevent circulation of outside air, press the

recirculation button. This will close all outside vents.

Ventilation System For mild outside temperatures when little heating or cooling is needed, use VENT to direct outside air through your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system. Your vehicle’s flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the air conditioning fan is running.

You will find air outlets in the center and on the sides of your instrument panel.

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AM-FM Stereo

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Audio Systems Your Delco Electronics audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco Electronics system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. Setting the Clock Press and hold HR until the correct hour appears. The letter A or P may appear on the display for AM or PM. Then, press and hold MN until the correct minute appears. The clock may be set with the ignition on or off.

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Playing the Radio PWR-VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the RECALL button until you see the display you want, then hold the RECALL button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1
and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there. The sound will mute while seeking.

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SCAN: Press this button and release it to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press the button again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning, and SCAN will appear on the display. If you press SCAN for more than two seconds, the radio will change to P SCAN mode. P SCAN will appear on the display. PUSHBUTTONS: The five numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 15 stations (five AM, five FM1 and five FM2). Just: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press and hold one of the five numbered buttons. The sound will mute. When it returns, release the button. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton. P SCAN: Press SCAN for more than two seconds, and P SCAN will appear on the display. The radio will go to the first preset station stored on your pushbuttons, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station. Press SCAN again to stop scanning.

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)

Setting the Tone BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease bass. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Then pull the knob all the way out. Turn it to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it.

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Press the knob lightly so it extends. Then pull the knob all the way out. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it.

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Playing the Radio PWR-VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RCL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the RCL button until you see the display you want, then hold the RCL button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1
and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there. The sound will mute while seeking.

SCAN: Press this button and release it to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press the button again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning, and SCAN will appear on the display. If you press SCAN for more than two seconds, the radio will change to P SCAN mode. P SCAN will appear on the display. PUSHBUTTONS: The five numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 15 stations (five AM, five FM1 and five FM2). Just: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press TONE to select the equalization that best suits

the type of station selected.

5. Press and hold one of the five numbered buttons. The sound will mute. When it returns, release the button. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return and the tone that you selected will also be automatically selected for that button.

6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

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P SCAN: Press SCAN for more than two seconds, and P SCAN will appear on the display. The radio will go to the first preset station stored on your pushbuttons, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station. Press SCAN again to stop scanning.

Setting the Tone BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease bass. When you use this control, the radio’s tone setting will switch to manual. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Then pull the knob all the way out. Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble. When you use this control, the radio’s tone setting will switch to manual. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. TONE: This feature allows you to choose preset bass and treble equalization settings designed for jazz, vocal, pop, rock and classical stations. JAZZ will appear on the display when you first press TONE. Each time you press it, another setting will appear on the display. Press it again after CLASSIC appears and MANUAL will appear. Manual tone control will return to the BASS and TREB knobs. Also, if you use the BASS and TREB knobs, control will return to them and MANUAL will appear.

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Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Press the knob lightly so it extends. Then pull the knob all the way out. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it.

Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. The longer side with the tape visible should face to the right. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off, the tape can be inserted and will begin playing. If you hear nothing but a garbled sound, the tape may not be in squarely. Press EJECT to remove the tape and start over.

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While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE, BAL, TREB, BASS, TONE, SEEK and SCAN controls just as you do for the radio. Other controls may have different functions when a tape is inserted. The display will show TP with a box around it and an arrow to show which side of the tape is playing. Your tape bias is set automatically. When a metal or chrome tape is inserted, HI-BIAS appears on the display. If you want to insert a tape when the ignition is off, first press EJECT or RCL. If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error. D E10: The tape is tight and the player can’t turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is working properly.

D E11: The tape is broken. Try a new tape. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.

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REV (1): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape reverses. You may select stations during REV operation by using TUNE. FWD (2): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape advances. You may select stations during FWD operation by using TUNE. PROG (3): Press this button to play the other side of the tape. D (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. Note that the double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. TONE: Press this button to select a tone while playing a cassette. The tone that you set will be activated each time you play a cassette tape. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to search for the next or previous selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for SEEK to work.

SCAN: Press this button to listen to each selection for a few seconds. The tape will go to the next selection, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next selection. Press this button again to stop scanning. The sound will mute, SCAN will appear on the display and the tape direction arrow will blink while scanning. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. The tape will stop but remain in the player. TAPE AUX: If you have a tape inserted and the radio is playing, press TAPE AUX to play your tape. To return to the radio while a tape is playing, press AM-FM. The inactive tape will remain safely inside the radio for future listening. EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape. The radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this button is pressed first. CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player with Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)

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Playing the Radio PWR-VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RCL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the RCL button until you see the display you want, then hold the RCL button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1
and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there. The sound will mute while seeking.

SCAN: Press this button and release it to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. Press the button again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning, and SCAN will appear on the display. If you press SCAN for more than two seconds, the radio will change to P SCAN mode. P SCAN will appear on the display. PUSHBUTTONS: The five numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 15 stations (five AM, five FM1 and five FM2). Just: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press TONE to select the equalization that best suits

the type of station selected.

5. Press and hold one of the five numbered buttons. The sound will mute. When it returns, release the button. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return and the tone that you selected will also be automatically selected for that button.

6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

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P SCAN: Press SCAN for more than two seconds, and P SCAN will appear on the display. The radio will go to the first preset station stored on your pushbuttons, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station. Press SCAN again to stop scanning.

Setting the Tone BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease bass. When you use this control, the radio’s tone setting will switch to manual. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Then pull the knob all the way out. Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble. When you use this control, the radio’s tone setting will switch to manual. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. TONE: This feature allows you to choose preset bass and treble equalization settings designed for jazz, vocal, pop, rock and classical stations. JAZZ will appear on the display when you first press TONE. Each time you press it, another setting will appear on the display. Press it again after CLASSIC appears and MANUAL will appear. Tone control will return to the BASS and TREB knobs. Also, if you use the BASS and TREB knobs, control will return to them and MANUAL will appear.

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Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Press the knob lightly so it extends. Then pull the knob all the way out. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it.

Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. The longer side with the tape visible should face to the right. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off, the tape can be inserted and will begin playing. If you hear nothing but a garbled sound, the tape may not be in squarely. Press EJECT to remove the tape and start over.

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While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE, BAL, TREB, BASS, TONE, SEEK and SCAN controls just as you do for the radio. Other controls may have different functions when a tape is inserted. The display will show TP with a box around it and an arrow to show which side of the tape is playing. Your tape bias is set automatically. When a metal or chrome tape is inserted, HI-BIAS appears on the display. If you want to insert a tape when the ignition is off, first press EJECT or RCL. If E and a number appear on the radio display and the tape won’t play because of an error, it could be that: D E10: The tape is tight and the player can’t turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is working properly.

D E11: The tape is broken. Try a new tape.

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. REV (1): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape reverses. You may select stations during REV operation by using TUNE. FWD (2): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape advances. You may select stations during FWD operation by using TUNE. PROG (3): Press this button to play the other side of the tape. D (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. Note that the double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.

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TONE: Press this button to select a tone while playing a cassette. The tone that you set will be activated each time you play a cassette tape. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to search for the next or previous selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for SEEK to work. SCAN: Press this button to listen to each selection for a few seconds. The tape will go to the next selection, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next selection. Press this button again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning, SCAN will appear on the display and the tape direction arrow will blink while scanning. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. The tape will stop but remain in the player.

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TAPE-CD: Press this button if you have a disc loaded in the CD player and the radio is playing, to play a compact disc. Press AM-FM to return to the radio when a compact disc is playing. Press TAPE-CD to switch between the tape and compact disc if both are loaded. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening. The display will show TP and CD. EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape. The radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this button is pressed first. CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

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Playing a Compact Disc With the ignition on, insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in and the disc should begin playing. If you want to insert a CD when the ignition is off, first press EJECT or RCL. The CD player will play either normal-size discs or the smaller 8 cm discs with an adapter. Note that when the disc is inserted, CD will be displayed. When the disc is playing, a box will appear around CD on the display. If you select a tone setting for your CD, it will be activated each time you play a CD. As each new track starts to play, the track number will appear in the display. If E (error) and a number appear on the radio display and the disc comes out, it could be that: D E20: The road is too rough. The disc should play

when the road is smoother.

D E20: The disc is dirty, scratched, wet or

upside down.

D E20: The air is very humid. If so, wait about an hour

and try again.

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. REV (1): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. FWD (2): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. RDM (5): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RDM will appear on the display when you press this button. TONE: Press this button to select a tone while playing a compact disc. The tone that you set will be activated each time you play a compact disc. SEEK: Press the down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. Press the up arrow to go to the next track. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving rearward or forward through the disc.

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SCAN: Press this button to listen to each selection for a few seconds. The disc will go to the next selection, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next selection. Press this button again to stop scanning. The sound will mute while scanning, SCAN will appear on the display. RCL: Press this button to see which track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long it has been playing. To change what is normally shown on the display (track or elapsed time), press the button until you see the display you want, then hold the button until the display flashes. While elapsed time is showing, EL TM will appear on the display. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is in the player. TAPE-CD: Press this button to change to the tape or disc function when the radio is on and either a tape or CD is inserted. Press AM-FM to return to the radio while a CD or tape is playing. Press TAPE-CD to switch between the tape and compact disc if both are loaded. The inactive tape or CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening. The display will show TP and CD.

EJECT: Press this button to remove the compact disc or cassette tape. The icon with the box around it on the display will eject and the radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes and compact discs may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this button is pressed first. Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped) THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen. When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery power is removed. If your battery loses power for any reason, you must unlock the radio with the secret code before it will operate.

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Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting the procedure. NOTE: If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4. 1. Write down any three or four-digit number from

000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate from the vehicle.

2. Turn the ignition to ACC or ON. 3. Turn the radio off. 4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the secret code number which you have written down.

5. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 6. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree

with your code.

7. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree

with your code.

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8. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the

code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show REP to let you know that you need to repeat Steps 5 through 7 to confirm your secret code.

9. Press AM-FM and this time the display will show

SEC to let you know that your radio is secure. Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display. 2. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 3. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree

with your code.

4. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree

with your code.

5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the

code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show SEC, indicating the radio is now operable and secure.

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If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear on the display. You will have to wait an hour with the ignition on before you can try again. When you try again, you will only have three chances to enter the correct code before INOP appears. If you lose or forget your code, contact your dealer. Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition to ACC or ON. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down

until SEC shows on the display.

4. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 5. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree

with your code.

6. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree

with your code.

7. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the

code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show ---, indicating that the radio is no longer secured.

If the code entered is incorrect, SEC will appear on the display. The radio will remain secured until the correct code is entered. When battery power is removed and later applied to a secured radio, the radio won’t turn on and LOC will appear on the display. To unlock a secured radio, see “Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss” earlier in this section. Understanding Radio Reception

AM The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.

FM Stereo FM stereo will give you the best sound, but FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go.

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Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts to it. To help avoid hearing loss or damage: D Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. D Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably

and clearly.

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NOTICE:

Before you add any sound equipment to your vehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you can add what you want. If you can, it’s very important to do it properly. Added sound equipment may interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s engine, Delco Electronics radio or other systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation of sound equipment that has been added improperly. So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to check Federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units.

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Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player. Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. Your radio may display CLN to indicate that you have used your tape player for 50 hours without resetting the tape clean timer. If this message appears on the display, your cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and player. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a known good cassette to see if it is the tape or the tape player at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player. The recommended cleaning method for your cassette tape player is the use of a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. The recommended cleaning cassette is available through your dealership (GM Part No. 12344789).

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When using a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape. If the cleaning cassette ejects, insert the cassette at least three times to ensure thorough cleaning. You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner. The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning cassette is not recommended. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced.

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Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. Be sure never to touch the signal surface when handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge. Care of Your Compact Disc Player The use of CD lens cleaner discs is not advised, due to the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics with lubricants internal to the CD mechanism. Backglass Antenna Your AM-FM antenna is integrated with your rear window defogger, located in the rear window. Be sure that the inside surface of the rear window is not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not damaged. If the inside surface is damaged, it could interfere with radio reception.

NOTICE:

Do not try to clear frost or other material from the inside of the rear window with a razor blade or anything else that is sharp. This may damage the rear defogger grid and affect your radio’s ability to pick up stations clearly. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

Because this antenna is built into your rear window, there is a reduced risk of damage caused by car washes and vandals. If you choose to add a cellular telephone to your vehicle, and the antenna needs to be attached to the glass, be sure that you do not damage the grid lines for the AM-FM antenna. There is enough space between the lines to attach a cellular telephone antenna without interfering with radio reception.

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Section 4 Your Driving and the Road

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Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.

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Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Off-Road Recovery Passing Loss of Control Driving at Night Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

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City Driving Freeway Driving Before Leaving on a Long Trip Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads Winter Driving Recreational Vehicle Towing Loading Your Vehicle Towing a Trailer Towing a Trailer (Except 3400 V6 Engine)

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Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes. Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following distance. It’s the best defensive driving maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn suddenly. Defensive driving requires that a driver concentrate on the driving task. Anything that distracts from the driving task -- such as concentrating on a cellular telephone call, reading, or reaching for something on the floor -- makes proper defensive driving more difficult and can even cause a collision, with resulting injury. Ask a passenger to help do things like this, or pull off the road in a safe place to do them yourself. These simple defensive driving techniques could save your life.

Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.)

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Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: D Judgment D Muscular Coordination D Vision D Attentiveness. Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. In recent years, over 17,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured. Many adults -- by some estimates, nearly half the adult population -- choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it’s against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws.

The obvious way to solve the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things: D The amount of alcohol consumed D The drinker’s body weight D The amount of food that is consumed before and

during drinking

D The length of time it has taken the drinker to

consume the alcohol.

According to the American Medical Association, a 180-lb. (82 kg) person who drinks three 12-ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of a liquor like whiskey, gin or vodka.

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It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level. There is a gender difference, too. Women generally have a lower relative percentage of body water than men. Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent. The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we’ve seen, it depends on how much alcohol is in the drinks, and how quickly the person drinks them.

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But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent. Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level of 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater! The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.

There’s something else about drinking and driving that many people don’t know. Medical research shows that alcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord or heart. This means that when anyone who has been drinking -- driver or passenger -- is in a crash, that person’s chance of being killed or permanently disabled is higher than if the person had not been drinking.