1998 Oldsmobile Bravada Owners Manual

wearing a satety belt correctly IS one ot the most I your passengers can do. This section contains veq about safety belt usage, air bags and child restraints

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The 1998 Oldsmobile Bravada Owner’s Manual

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Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SIR” system. Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system. Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how t o drive under different conditions. Problems on the Road This section tells what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a tlat tire or overheated engine, etc. Service and Appearance Care Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good. Maintenance Schedule This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Oldsn~obile for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-8. Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every sthjeot in this manual. You can use it t o quickly find something you want to read.

--n I I GM

We support voluntary technician certification.

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, OLDSMOBILE, the OLDSMOBILE Rocket Emblem and the name BRAVADA are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Oldsmobile Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. 1.f you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual i n it so the new owner can use it.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

Natlorlal Institute lor

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

E X C E L L E N C E

Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 22656 199 A First Edition

“Copyright General Motors Corporation 1997 All Rights Reserved

About Driving Your Vehicle As with other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result in loss of control or an accident. Be sure to read the “on-pavement” and “off-road” driving guidelines in this manual. (See “Driving Guidelines” and ”Operating Your Vehicle Off Paved Roads” in the Index.) How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you‘ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’s in the manual, and the page number where you‘ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safcty cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were t o i, wore the warning.

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IN:

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.

In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If YOLI don‘t, you or others could be hurt.

You will also find a circle with a slash through it i n this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do this” or “Don’t let this happen.”

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Vehicle Also in this

Damage Warnings book you will find these notices:

In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly.

I But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid

the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION

I and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in

different words. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

NOTICE:

These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.

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Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.

For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

These symbols have to do with your lamps:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

WINDSHIELD WIPER

TURN SIGNALS

C S 0 b

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

,\I/,

FASTEN SEAT BELTS

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

WINDOW DEFOGGER

DAYTIME .

RUNNING '

LAMPS * *

$0

VEN TlLATlNG FAN

FOG LAMPS

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE

COOLANT TEMP

BAllERY CHARGING SYSTEM

BRAKE

COOLANT

LIGHTER n (0) HORN )tr SPEAKER b p3

FUEL

ENGINE OIL w, ANTI-LOCK (@)

PRESSURE

BRAKES

Model Reference This manual covers this model:

Four-Door Utility

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.

how to use your safety belts properly. You can also

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Seats and Seat Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Driver Position Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Right Front Passenger Position Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System Rear Seat Passengers

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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Center Rear Passenger Position Children Child Restraints Larger Children Safety Belt Extender Checking Your Restraint Systems Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

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Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and fold them up and down. Manual Passenger’s Seat

Power Driver’s Seat The control pad is on the side of your driver’s seat.

Move the lever under the front of the passenger’s seat toward the driver’s door to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Horizontal Control: Raise the front of the seat by raising the forward edge of the button. Lower the front of the seat by lowering the forward edge of the button. Move the seat forward by moving the whole button toward the front of the vehicle. Raise the rear of the seat by raising the rear edge of the button. Lower the rear of the seat by lowering the rear edge of the button. Move the seat rearward by moving the whole button toward the rear of the vehicle. Moving the whole button up or down raises or lowers the whole seat. Vertical Control: Move the reclining front seatback rearward by moving the button toward the rear of the vehicle. Move the seatback forward by moving the button toward the front of the vehicle.

Heated Front Seats (Option)

If you have this feature, the control is located on the side of the seat. This feature will quickly heat the lower cushion and lower back of the driver and front passenger seats for added comfort.

Press the lower part of the switch down to turn the heater on low. Press the upper part of the switch to turn the heater on high. Put the switch in the center position to turn the heater off.

Power Lumbar Control

Reclining Front Seatbacks

The control is on the side of the driver’s or passenger’s seat.

Press and hold the front of the control until you have the desired lumbar support. To decrease lumbar support, press the rear of the control.

To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull LIP on the lever and the seat will go to an upright position.

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Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is in 1 motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. The head restraints tilt forward and rearward also. Rear Seats Your vehicle has a folding rear seat which lets you fold the seatbacks down for more cargo space.

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The rear seat release handles are on the rear of the seatbacks. Push back on the seatbacks as you pull up on the handles. The head restraint will automatically fold out of the way when the seatback is folded down. To raise the seatbacks, just lift LIP the seatbacks and push until they lock in the upright position. Push and pull on the seatbacks to check that the latches have locked i n the upright position. If they haven’t, have them repaired immediately.

Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR), or air bag system.

I A CAUTION:

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

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To return the head restraints to the upright position, reach behind the seats and pull the head restraint up until it locks into position. Push and pull on the head restraints to check that they have locked in the upright position. If they haven’t, have them repaired immediately. The rear seat head restraints are adjustable. Push the button located under the head restraint to raise or lower it. Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the head restraint is closest to the top of your ears. Aftel- releasing the button, push and pull on the head restraint to make sure it‘s locked i n place.

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 30 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot! Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.

Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.)

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Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's .just a seat on wheels.

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Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by solmething. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...

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or the instrument panel ...

or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down a s 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.

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you c m z unbuckle and get out, is rnuch greater if you are belted. &= If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be i n

wear safety belts?

most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work rt;ith safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag 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.

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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. 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.

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

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.

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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What’s wrong with this?

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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What's wrong with this?

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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What’s wrong with this?

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.

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 retailer to fix it.

Q.’ What’s wrong with this?

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.

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 To learn how to wear the right front passenger’s safety belt properly, see “Driver Position” earlier in this section. The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt -- except for one thing. If you ever pull the shoulder portion of the belt out all the way, you will engage the child restraint locking feature. If this happens, just let the belt go back all the way and start again. Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System This part explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) system or air bag system. Your vehicle has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

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you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if 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 “supplenlental restraints” to the safety belts. All 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 safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a air bag for that person.

A CAUTION:

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

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.

/!\ CAUTION:

Children who are up against, or very close to, an air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither

CAUTION: (Continued)

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

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.

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How the Air Bag System Works

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

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

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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 14 to 18 mph (23 to 29 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 intlation would not help the occupant. 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. The air bag system is designed to work properly under a wide range of conditions, including off-road usage. Observe safe driving speeds, especially on rough terrain. As always, wear your safety belt. See “Off-Road Driving” in the index for more tips on off-road driving.

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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.

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.

0 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.

0 Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment.

0 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 retailer 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.

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 retailer and the Bravada 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.

For up to two 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

Adding Equipment to Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle

A:

A:

If I add a push bumper or a bicycle rack to the front of my vehicle, will it keep the air bags from working properly? As long as the push bumper or bicycle rack is attached to your vehicle so that the vehicle’s basic structure isn’t changed, it’s not likely to keep the air bags from working properly in a crash. Is there anything I might add to the front of the vehicle that could keep the air bags from working properly? Yes. If you add things that change your vehicle’s frame, bumper system, front end sheet metal or height, they may keep the air bag system from working properly. Also, the air bag system may not work properly if you relocate any of the air bag sensors. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. (The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See “Customer Satisfaction Procedure” in the Index.)

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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. is secure. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. 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.

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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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.

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The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. The safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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.

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

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:

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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.

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.

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 Rear Passenger Position

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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Lap Belt

When you sit in the center rear seating position, you have a lap safety belt which has a retractor. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

3. Feed the lap belt into the retractor to tighten it.

4. 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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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 phildren and Babie /r\ C."' u HON:

Children who are up against, or very close to, an air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protection for adults and older children, 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.

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A CAUTIO, 4:

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.

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 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 infdnt to its parents unless there is an infant restraint available for the baby‘s first trip in a motor vehicle.

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-1b. (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 vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued)

until a

9-

Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints.

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.

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 i n a 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 Ibs. (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 rea-facing infant seat or a forward-facing child seat.

A booster seat (F, Gj is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs. ( 18 to 27 kg) and about four to eight years of age. It’s 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.

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 a rear seat outside position. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat outside position. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Before you secure a forward-facing child restraint, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. Or, secure the child restraint in a rear seat outside position.

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.

Top Strap

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Anchor brackets for the rear outside seat positions are located on the floor in the cargo area.

Don’t use the front set of tie-down brackets. Anchor the top strap to the rearmost bracket on the same side of the vehicle as the child restraint. Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself.

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Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

instructions

the

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

say.

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

3. Buckle the belt. Make Sure the release button is the

positioned so you would safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

able unbuckle

be

to

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

the retractor to set the lock.

5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into

the retractor 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.

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6. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions be sure

to

it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s

Don’t use child restraints in these positions. The restraints won’t work properly.

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:

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If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear 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.) 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.

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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.

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

the retractor to set the lock.

6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the

retractor 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. 7. 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.

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Larger Children

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.

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

1-48

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.

e: 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 i n 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 a seat that has a lap belt, if your vehicle has one.

1-49

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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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 retailer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you L eo 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.)

ACAUTION I

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 you ever see a label on the driver’s or the right front passenger’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be sure to do so. Then the new belt will be there to help protect you in a collision. You would see this label on the belt near the door opening.

To help avoid personal injury, belt assembly must be replaced if this vehicle is in a collision or if “Replace Belt” appears below. See Owner’s Manual for more information.

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 an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system in this section. parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier

b% NOTES

1-52

a

Section 2 Features and Controls

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.

2-2 2-4 2-6 2-9 2- 10 2-1 1 2- 12 2- 12 2- 14 2- 15 2-16 2- 19 2-20 2-22 2-22 2-23 2-23 2- 24

Keys Door Locks Keyless Entry System Liftgate Theft Passlock TM New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Positions Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) Automatic Transmission Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Out of PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked Locking Rear Axle

2-24 2-25 2-25 2-26 2-26 2-32 2-34 2-35 2-37 2-44 2-44 2-45 2-45 2-46 2-50 2-5 1 2-53

All-Wheel Drive Windows Horn Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter Sun Visors Accessory Power Outlets Sunroof (If Equipped) Universal Transmitter Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Cluster Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

Keys

Leaving young 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 young children.

This vehicle has one double-sided key for the ignition, liftgate and door locks. It will fit with either side up.

The key code number tells your retailer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep this number in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using this number. Your selling retailer should also have this number.

When a new vehicle is delivered, the retailer provides the owner with a pair of identical keys and a key code number.

NOTICE:

Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But 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.

2-3

Door Locks

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. You can use the Keyless Entry System, if you have this option. You can use your key to unlock your door from the outside. To lock your door from the inside, slide the lever on your inside door down.

To unlock the door, slide the lever on your inside door up. You will see a red area on the lever.

2-4

Power Door Locks

Rear Door Security Lock

With this feature, you can lock the rear doors so they can't be opened from the inside by passengers.

Move the lock up t o lock the doors and down to release the door locks. Lockout Prevention To protect you from locking your key in the vehicle, this feature stops the power door locks from locking when the keys are in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open and the key is in the ignition, all the doors will lock, and the driver's door will unlock.

2-5

The power door lock switch is located on the armrest. Remove the ignition key and press LOCK to lock all the doors at once. To unlock the doors, press the raised area next to the key symbol. The lever on each rear door works only that door's lock.

Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. Keyless Entry System You can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your liftgate from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your keyless entry system 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 device complies with RSS-2 10 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.

2-6

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. This system has a range of about 3 feet ( 1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). 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:

Check to determine if battery replacement or resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather.

0 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. If you’re still having trouble, see your retailer or a qualified technician for service.

Operation When you press UNLOCK. the driver's door will unlock automatically, the parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will go on. If you press UNLOCK again within three seconds, the remaining doors will unlock, the parking lamps will flash and the interior lights will go on. Press LOCK to lock all the doors. Press LOCK again and the horn will chirp. Press the REAR button twice within three seconds t o unlock the rear liftgate glass, the parking larnps will flash and the interior lights will go on. The transmission must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Remote Panic Alarm When the button with the horn symbol on the key transmitter is pressed, the horn will sound and the headlamps and taillamps will flash for up t o two minutes. This can be turned off by pressing the horn button again, waiting for 30 seconds, or starting the vehicle. Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry 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 retailer. Remember t o bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your retailer. When the retailer matches the replacement transmitter t o your vehicle. any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your retailer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will n o t unlock youI vehicle. Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry 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 t o get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it's probably time to change the battery.

I NOTICE:

When replacing the battery, use e m nat to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.

2-7

To replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter:

Resynchronization Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by this system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal it has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal from the transmitter. To resynchronize your transmitter, stand close to your vehicle and simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter for not more than five seconds. The door locks should cycle to confirm synchronization. If the locks do not cycle, see your retailer for service.

1. Insert a dime i n the slot between the covers of the

transmitter housing near the key ring hole. Remove the bottom by twisting the dime.

2. Remove and replace the battery with a three volt

CR2032 or equivalent battery, positive (+) side up.

3. Align the covers and snap them together 4. Resynchronize the transmitter. 5. Check the operation of the transmitter.

2-8

Liftgate

It can be dangerous to drive with the rear window or liftgate open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or snlell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the rear window or liftgate open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the rear window or liftgate: 0 Make sure all windows are shut. 0 Turn the fan on your heating or coaling

system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Liftgate Release There are several ways to release the liftgate. However, the liftgate will not release if the vehicle is i n gear. You can use your key to unlock the liftgate from the outside. Insert the key into the liftgate lock button and turn it to the left. All doors will unlock. You may also use the Keyless Entry System described earlier. The liftgate can be opened without a key if the driver’s door is unlocked.

To open the liftgate glass only, ~~nlock the liftgate and press the button.

To open the entire liftgate, unlock the liftgate and lift the handle located in the center of the door.

2-9

The liftgate and glass will automatically lock when shut. To lock the power lock system from the outside, insert the key in the lock button and turn it to the right. All doors will lock. Remote Liftgate Glass Release

This button on the passenger’s side of the steering column allows you to release the liftgate glass from inside the vehicle.

Your shift lever must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) for the release to work. 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.

2-10

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 tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transmission. And remember to lock the doors. 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 ignition key‘? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle?

Put your valuables in a storage area, like your glove box.

0 Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

Passlock TM Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system. Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. The system is armed once the key is removed from the ignition. Passlock enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a valid key. If a correct key is not used, fuel is disabled. During normal operation, the SECURITY light will go off after the engine is started. If the engine stalls and the SECURITY light flashes, wait about 10 minutes until the light stops flashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to release the key from the START position as soon as the engine starts.

If the engine does not start after three (3) tries, the vehicle needs service. If you are driving 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 retailer. 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 retailer for service. If the SECURITY light comes on while the engine is running, a problem has been detected and the system may need service. See your retailer for service. In an emergency, call the Oldsmobile Roadside Assistance Center at 1 -800-442-OLDS (6537).

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines:

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 knlhj or Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or less for the first 500 miles (805 kmj. slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km).

Don’t make full-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 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. Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

Ignition Positions Use the key to turn the ignition switch to five different positions.

ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things like the radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. Push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before yo~l inserted the key.

2-12

. -~

NOTICE:

NOTICE:

Don’t operate accessories in the ACCESSORY position for long periods of time. Prolonged operation of accessories in the ACCESSORY position could drain your battery and prevent you from starting your vehicle.

LOCK (B): This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transmission. It’s a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK. OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle i n motion while the engine is off (for example, if your vehicle is being towed). RUN (D): This is the position for driving. START (E): This position starts your engine.

If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But 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.

Retained Accessory Power Your vehicle is equipped with a Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature which will allow certain features of your vehicle to continue to work up to 20 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF. Your radio, power windows, sunroof and overhead console will work when the ignition key is in RUN or ACCESSORY. Once the key is turned from RUN to OFF, these ,features will continue to work for up to 20 minutes or until a door is opened.

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:

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

START. If it doesn’t start in 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way down for five more seconds, or until it starts.

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

stops), wait 15 seconds and start over. When the engine starts, let go of the key and the accelerator pedal.

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

1 . Without pushing the accelerator pedal. turn your

ignition key to START. When the engine starts. let 2 *o 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.

2-14

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 retailer. 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.

Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) 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 i n a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The

cord is located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, behind the underhood fuse block.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 1 10-volt AC outlet.

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.

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 retailer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The retailer can give yo11 the best advice for that particular area.

Automatic Transmission Operation

There are several different positions for your shift lever.

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

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.

in PARK (P) range

EIISLW the shift lever is f ~ ~ l l y before starting the engine. Your vehicle has a Brake-Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is i n RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- press the button 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. See ”Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

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

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see ”Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow’‘ i n the Index.

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

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.

I NOTICE:

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

DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re:

Going less than about 35 mph (5.5 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 3.5 mph (5.5 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. DRIVE (D) should not be used when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or for off-road driving. Select THIRD (3) when operating the vehicle under any of these conditions. THIRD (3): This position is also used for nornlal driving, however it offers more power but lower fuel economy than DRIVE (D). You should use THIRD (3) when towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, driving on steep hills or winding roads or for off-road driving. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). 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.

You can also use SECOND (2) for starting your vehicle from a stop on slippery road surfaces. 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 ( I ) while the vehicle is moving forward, the transmission won’t shift into FIRST (1) until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE:

If your rear 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 could damage your transmission. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

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Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parking brake, hold the reg~dar brake pedal down.

I 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 you must park on a hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer fl-om moving.

Pull the BRAKE RELEASE lever. It is located on the bottom of the instrument panel on the driver‘s side.

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

!. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this:

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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P a

Hold in the button on the lever. Push the lever all the way toward the front of the vehicle.

3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and t,&e it with you. If you can leave

your vehicle with the key, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of 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) bqjot-e 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 f1-0111 the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

4 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 i n 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 pulling it toward you (or pressing the button on a console shift lever). If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

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Shifting Out Of PARK (P) Your vehicle has a Brake-Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transmission Operation” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear

you want.

5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

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