1997 Oldsmobile Silhouette Owners Manual

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 unbuckle and get out, is ~ m c h greater if you are belted. If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts?

A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with 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 i n side and other collisions.

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 Oldsmobile, 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.

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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 puli the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

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

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

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

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

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Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.

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

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Q; What’s wrong with this?

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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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.

&.' What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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Q: What's wrong with this?

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if your belt goes over an armrest like this. The belt would be much too high. In a crash, you can slide under the belt. The belt force would then be applied at the abdomen, not at the pelvic bones, and that could cause serious or fatal injuries. Be sure the belt goes under the armrests.

A: The belt is over an armrest.

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.

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&= What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

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.

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

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

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

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position” earlier in this section. 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. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your Oldsmobile 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:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are L‘supplemental 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 crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.

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

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.

/I\ 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.

A CAUTION:

An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children” and the caution label on the right front passenger’s safety belt.

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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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I

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

When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.’’ If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 kmk). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that

it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or near-frontal impacts. What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

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

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. 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.

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Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. 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 cover 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 passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag covers.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Oldsmobile Air bags affect how your Oldsmobile 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 Oldsmobile retailer and the Silhouette 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 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid 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 buck .le 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

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. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. 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 safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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

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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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Your vehicle may have rear shoulder belt comfort guides. This ,feature 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. If your vehicle has a bench seat in the second row, there is one guide for the left-hand outside passenger position. If your vehicle has third-row seats, there is one guide for each outside passenger position. 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: I . The guide is located on the side of the seatback.

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

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2. 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

guide must be on top of the belt.

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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.

To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Then just let the guide hang from its elastic cord on the side of the seatback.

.... 1

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Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt

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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and i n every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies

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.

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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t Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a

vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so

CAUTION: (Continued)

heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-1b. (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.

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Built-in Child Restraint (Option)

This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. . Each child restraint is designed for use only by children who weigh between 22 and 40 pounds (10 and 18 kg) and whose height is between 33.5 and 40 inches (850 and 1 0 I6 km) and who are capable of sitting upright alone. The child should also be at least one year old. It is important to use a rear-facing infant restraint until the child is about a year old. A rear-facing restraint gives the infant’s head, neck and body the support they would need in a crash. See “Child Restraints” later in this section for more information.

If your vehicle has this option in a 60/40 bench seat, there’s a built-in child restraint at each outboard position of the 60/40 bench seat. This bench seat will only fit in the second row of your vehicle.

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Q: What if the top of my child’s shoulders is above

the shoulder belt slots for the five-point child restraint harness system?

A: A child whose shoulders are above the shoulder

belt slots for the five-point child restraint harness system shouldn’t use this child restraint. Instead, the child should sit on the vehicle’s regular seat cushion and use the vehicle’s adult safety belts.

Securing a Child in the Built-In Child Restraint

BEFORE YOU USE THIS CHILD RESTRAINT, BE SURE THE TOP OF THE CHILD’S SHOULDERS IS BELOW THE SLOTS THAT THE HARNESS GOES THROUGH. A CHILD WHOSE SHOULDERS ARE ABOVE THOSE SLOTS COULD BE INJURED DURING A SUDDEN STOP OR CRASH. IF THE TOP OF THE CHILD’S SHOULDERS IS ABOVE THE SLOTS, DON’T USE THIS CHILD RESTRAINT WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION.

1. Raise the head restraint until the lower edge of the head restraint is even with the top of the seatback.

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2. Rotate the head restraint rearward until it touches the

top of the seatback. Make sure there is no gap between the lower edge of the head restraint and the top of the seatback.

3. Lower the child restraint cushion.

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/A CAUTION:

Using the vehicle’s regular safety belts on a child seated on the child restraint cushion can cause serious injury to the child in a sudden stop or crash. If a child is the proper size for the built-in child restraint, secure the child using the child restraint’s harness. But children who are too large for the built-in child restraint should sit on the vehicle’s regular seat and use the vehicle’s adult safety belts.

WARNING! FAILURE TO FOLLOW THE MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS ON THE USE OF THIS CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM CAN RESULT IN YOUR CHILD STRIKING THE VEHICLE’S INTERIOR DURING A SUDDEN STOP OR CRASH. SNUGLY ADJUST THE BELTS PROVIDED WITH THIS CHILD RESTRAINT AROUND YOUR CHILD.

You’ll be using the child restraint’s harness (A) to secure your child. Don’t use the vehicle’s safety belts.

4. Before placing the child in the child restraint, add

slack to the shoulder harness. Pull the black shoulder harness release strap firmly. At the same time pull both shoulder harness straps through the slots in the seatback as shown.

5. Place the child on the child restraint cushion.

6. Select only one side of the harness. Place the harness

over the child’s shoulder.

7. Push the latch plate (B) into the buckle until it clicks. Be sure the buckle is free of any foreign objects that may prevent you from securing the latch plates. If you can’t secure a latch plate, see your Oldsmobile retailer for service before using the child restraint.

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8. Place the other side of the harness over the

child’s shoulder.

9. Push the latch plate into the buckle until

it clicks.

10. Pull up on both latch plates to make sure they

are secure.

11. Now fasten the left and right halves of the

shoulder harness clip together. The purpose of this clip is to help keep the harness positioned on the child’s shoulders.

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An unfastened shoulder harness clip won’t help keep the harness in place on the child’s shoulders. If the harness isn’t on the child’s shoulders, it won’t be able to restrain the child’s upper body in a sudden stop or crash. The child could be seriously injured. Make sure the harness clip is properly fastened.

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12. Pull the shoulder harness adjustment strap (C)

firmly until the harness is snugly adjusted around the child. You should not be able to put more than two fingers between the harness and the child’s chest. Make sure the harness and buckle strap are not twisted.

Removing the Child from the Built-In Child Restraint

13. Adjust the position of the harness on the child’s shoulder by moving the clip up or down along the harness. On each side of the harness, the shoulder part should be centered on the child’s shoulder. The harness should be away from the child’s face and neck, but not falling from the child’s shoulders. If you expect that the child will sleep while riding, you can recline the seatback. See “Seats” in the Index.

1. Unfasten the shoulder harness clip.

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Storing the Built-In Child Restraint Always properly store the built-in child restraint before using the vehicle's lap-shoulder belt.

2.

3. 4.

5.

Unlatch the harness by pushing the button on the buckle. Move one side of the harness off the child's shoulder. Move the other side of the harness off the child's shoulder. Remove the child from the child restraint cushion.

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1. Move both latch plates and both sides of the shoulder

harness clip to the bottom of the harness straps.

2. Fold the child restraint cushion and leg rest up into

the seatback.

3. Press the child restraint cushion firmly into

the seatback.

4. Then press the leg rest firmly into the seatback, and secure it by pressing the upper corners against the fastener strips on the seatback.

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

5. Rotate the head restraint forward and push it all the

way down.

Just like the other restraint systems in your vehicle, your built-in child restraint needs to be periodically checked and may need to have parts replaced after a crash. See “Checking Your Restraint Systems’’ and “Replacing Seat and Restraint System Parts After a Crash” in the Index.

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Top Strap

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

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.

it should be

If your child restraint has a top strap, anchored. A child restraint with a top strap should only be used in the second row. Anchor brackets for the second row outside positions are located just above the place where the third row lap-shoulder belts meet the floor.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

There’s a vinyl sleeve there; t o get to the bracket, push this vinyl sleeve aside slightly. Anchor the top strap to the bracket. If you need to have an anchor bracket installed for the right-hand side of a 60/40 bench seat, you can ask your Oldsmobile retailer to put it i n for you. If you want to install an anchor bracket yourself, your retailer can tell you how to do it. Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself.

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You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

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

the retractor to set the lock.

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

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Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Seat Position (Third Row Bench Seat)

You’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

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. 1-72

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

plate and pulling it along the belt.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

5.

6.

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. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint.

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7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

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

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

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the 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. If your vehicle is a passenger van, always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. If your vehicle is a cargo van, do not use a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle. If a forward-facing child restraint is suitable for your child, always move the passenger seat as far back as it will go.

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You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a 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. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

5. 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.

I

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

the retractor to set the lock.

7. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt

back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

8. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To re~nove 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

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

If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But safety belts properly. 0 Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in

they need to use the

a crash.

0 Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other

people who are.

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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.

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

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. If the child is so s~nall 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.

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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 go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. If your vehicle has a built-in child restraint, also periodically make sure the harness straps, latch plates, buckle, clip, child head restraint and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt and built-in child restraint system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt or built-in child restraint 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. 1-80

If your vehicle has the built-in child restraint, torn or frayed harness straps can rip apart under impact forces just like torn or frayed safety belts can. They may not protect a child in a crash. If a harness strap is torn or frayed, get a new harness 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.) Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new safety belts or built-in child restraint parts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But the safety belts or built-in child restraint harness straps were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new safety belts or harness straps. If safety belts or built-in child restraint harness straps are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt, built-in child restraint or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the safety belt or built-in child restraint wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

if

Section 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Oldsmobile, 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 2-7 2- 10 2- 12 2-13 2-15 2-19 2-23 2-26 2-26 2-28 2-29 2-3 1 2-35 2-37 2-4 1 2-50

Important Information About Keys Door Locks Remote Lock Control Battery Replacement for RKE Switchbanks Sliding Door Power Sliding Door Operation of Sliding Door Security Locks Preventing Theft of Your Vehicle New Vehicle "Break-In" Ignition Positions Tips on Starting Your Engine Using the Engine Coolant Heater Automatic Transaxle Operation Parking Brake Guidelines Important Information on Engine Exhaust Locks and Lighting Choices Windows

2-52 2-52 2-53

2-54 2-55 2-59 2-59 2-6 I 2-66 2- 67 2-7 I 2- 84 2-85 2- 86 2-88 2-92

Adjusting the Tilt Steering Wheel Functions of the Multifunction Lever How to Use the High/Low Beam Headlamp Changer Windshield Wipers and Fluid Using Cruise Control Exterior Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) Interior Lamps Rearview Mirrors Storage Compartments Driver Information Center Accessory Power Outlets S u nroo f Air Inflator System Instrument Panel Overview All About Your Warning Lights and Gages

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.

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Door Locks

The master key can be used for the ignition as well as all door locks, the liftgate lock and the storage compartments.

If you need a new key, contact your Oldsnmbile retailer, who can obtain the correct key code.

NOTICE:

Your Oldsmobile 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 key inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have an extra key.

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. From the outside, use your key or the Remote Lock Control transmitter (if your vehicle has this option).

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Front Doors

To lock either front door from the inside, push the locking lever forward. To unlock either front door from the inside, pull back on the locking lever.

To unlock either front door from the outside with the key, insert the key and turn it toward the front of the vehicle. You can lock either front door from the outside with your key by inserting and turning it toward the rear of the vehicle.

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Power Door Locks (Option)

From the inside, press the front of the power door lock switch (on either front door) to unlock all doors and the liftgate. If your vehicle is equipped with the Content Theft Deterrent system, the power door lock switch will not unlock the doors until the system is disarmed. See “Content Theft Deterrent” in the Index for more details. You can lock all doors and the liftgate from the inside by pressing the rear of the power lock switch on either front door. If your vehicle is equipped with the Content Theft

Deterrent system, the power door lock switch may cause the system to arm. See “Content Theft Deterrent” in the Index for more details. To unlock any door or the liftgate from the outside with your key, turn the key to the unlock position and release. This will only unlock that door or the liftgate. You can unlock all the doors and the liftgate by holding the key cylinder i n the unlock position for one second. With power door locks, you can lock all the doors from the outside by inserting the key and turning the key cylinder to the lock position. With power locks, when the doors are locked, the inside as well as the outside door latch release cannot open the doors. This safety feature prevents a door from being accidentally opened from the inside by moving the handle. To override this safety feature, move the locking lever to the unlock position on the door you want to open. When the liftgate has been unlocked with the power door locks, you won’t need the key to open it. Simply squeeze the handle above the license plate. This is also true if you use the optional Remote Lock Control transmitter. See “Remote Lock Control” later in this section.

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Automatic Door Locks (Option) All of the doors will lock automatically when you move your shift lever out of PARK (P). All doors will unlock automatically when the ignition is turned off while the shift lever is in PARK (P). You can program the Automatic Door Locks to operate with the Remote Lock Control system and to lock and unlock automatically to suit your needs. See “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. With the automatic door locks feature, you can still lock or unlock the doors at any time, either manually or with the power door lock switches. Last Door Closed Locking The Last Door Closed Locking feature makes it easier to use your power door locks to all the doors and the liftgate when leaving your vehicle. When any door or the liftgate is open, the first time you attempt to lock the doors using the power lock switch or the key chain transmitter (if equipped), will result in three chimes to signal that Last Door Closed Locking is being used. All doors and the liftgate can be opened for five seconds from the time the last door is closed.

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Five seconds after the last door is closed, all the doors will lock. You can lock the doors immediately by using the power door lock switch or the key chain transmitter. If the ignition is in the RUN or ACCESSORY position, this feature will not lock the doors. To turn the Last Door Closed Locking feature off or on, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. Sliding Door Delayed Locking If the sliding door is open when you use your power door locks to lock the vehicle, the sliding door is not locked. Normally the Last Door Closed Locking Feature will be used to lock the sliding door after it has been closed. When the ignition is on or if the Last Door Closed Locking Feature has been overridden or programmed off, the Sliding Door Delayed Locking feature will lock your sliding door for you. Three seconds after the sliding door is closed, all the doors will lock. If you have the dual sliding doors, all doors will lock three seconds after both sliding doors are closed.

Lockout Deterrent The Lockout Deterrent feature makes it difficult for you to lock your keys in your vehicle. If the driver’s door is open while the keys are in the ignition, you will not be able to use your power door lock to lock the vehicle. If you don’t leave the keys in the ignition or if you use the manual door lock, you could still lock your keys in your vehicle. Always remember to take your keys with you. To turn this feature off or on, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from the inside. Then get out and close the door. Remote Lock Control (Option) If your Oldsmobile has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors and the liftgate using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

LOCK

Your Remote Lock Control operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry and Science Canada Rules. 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.

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This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry and Science 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. The range of this system is about 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote lock control 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 synchronization 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. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right. If you’re still having trouble, see your Oldsmobile retailer or a qualified technician for service.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. 2-8

Operation Remote Driver’s Door and All Door Unlock When you press UNLOCK on the key chain transmitter, only the driver’s door will unlock. If you press UNLOCK again within five seconds, all the doors and the liftgate will unlock. If you would like all the doors to unlock the first time you press UNLOCK, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. If your vehicle is equipped with the Content Theft Deterrent system, The UNLOCK button on the key chain transmitter will disarm the system (see “Content Theft Deterrent” in the Index for more details).

Remote All Door Lock To lock a l l doors, press LOCK on the key chain transmitter (see “Power Door Locks” in the Index for more details on the power door lock features). If your vehicle is equipped with the Content Theft Deterrent system, the LOCK button may arm the system (see “Content Theft Deterrent” in the Index for more details).

Remote Lock Confirmation When you use the key chain transmitter to lock your vehicle, your park lamps will flash briefly to let you know the command has been received. If you press the LOCK button again, within five seconds, the horn will sound briefly and the park lamps will flash to let you know the vehicle is already locked. If you would like to change the way the park lamps and horn operate with Remote Lock Confirmation, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. Remote Unlock Confirmation When you use your key chain transmitter to unlock your vehicle or to operate the power sliding door (if equipped), your park lamps will flash briefly to let you know the command was received. If you would like to change the way the park lamps operate with Remote Unlock confirmation, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index.

Remote Alarm When you press the horn button on the key chain transmitter, your vehicle’s park lamps will flash and the horn will sound. This will allow you to attract attention, if needed.

Remote Power Sliding Door Operation (Option) If you have the optional power sliding door (see “Power Sliding Door” later in this section), your remote transmitter will have a button that has a van symbol on it. Press it to open or close the sliding door.

LOCK

If the sliding door is locked, first unlock all doors (see “Remote Driver’s Door and All Door Unlock” earlier in this section), then press the van symbol to open the sliding door. Press the van symbol again to close the sliding door. You can operate the power sliding door with the remote transmitter only when the power sliding door override switch on the overhead console is disabled.

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Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each key chain 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 to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your retailer. When the retailer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your retailer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only four transmitters matched to it. See your retailer to match transmitters to another vehicle.

Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

I NOTICE:

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

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Replacing the Battery in the Remote Transmitter

1. Insert a flat object like a dime into the slot on the side

of the transmitter and twist to separate the halves.

2. Gently pry the battery out of the transmitter. Do not

use the metal flanges to ‘bpop out” the battery.

3. Reassemble the transmitter. Make sure the halves

are snapped together tightly so water will not get in

4. Check the transmitter operation. If needed,

follow the instructions on resynchronizing your remote transmitter.

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Resynchronizing Your Remote Transmitter Your Remote Lock Control System uses a continually changing code for increased security. Normally, the receiver in your vehicle will keep track of this changing code.

Loss of synchronization will occur if the transmitter is activated more than 256 times while out of range of the vehicle. Loss of synchronization will occur after the battery replacement if the transmitter is immediately activated more than 16 times while out of range of the vehicle.

If your key chain transmitter has stopped working, you may need to resynchronize the transmitter to the vehicle receiver. To do this, press the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons together and hold for at least seven seconds or until the horn sounds if equipped with Content Theft Deterrent. Check the transmitter operation. Switchbanks There are two sets of switchbanks located in the front of the vehicle, The switches will vary with the options that are on your vehicle. It is useful to become familiar with them since they are used frequently while operating the vehicle.

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Overhead Console Switchbank

This switchbank is located in the overhead console. The switches that you may find in this switchbank are the Interior Lights Override, Power Sliding Door Override, Power Sliding Door, Power Rear Quarter Windows and Sunroof. If your vehicle does not have some of the options controlled by these switches, there will be a blank button in its place. For more information, please see each of these features in the Index.

Instrument Panel Switchbank

This switchbank is located in the instrument panel below the Comfort Controls. The switches and controls that you may find in this switchbank are the Rear Fan Knob, Rear Window WiperNasher, Fog Lamps and Traction Control. If your vehicle does not have some of the options controlled by these switches, there will be a blank button in its place. For more information, please see each of these features in the Index. If your vehicle is not equipped with the Optional Rear Climate Control system, there will be a storage space in this switchbank. The rubber mat can be removed for cleaning. Snap the mat into place after cleaning.

Sliding Door To open the sliding door from outside the vehicle, pull the handle out and then pull the door toward the rear. If you slide the door all the way back, the door will rest in a detent position. The door must overcome this detent when closing. To move the door forward, you must first pull the door past the open detent position. Does your Oldsmobile have a sliding door on the left side? If it does, this door is designed to open only a little if the fuel door is open. If this ever happens, don’t try to force the sliding door. Just close the left-side sliding door. Then when the fuel filler door is closed, the left-side sliding door can be opened normally.

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Sliding Door Lock

To unlock either sliding door from the outside using your key, insert the key and turn it toward the rear of the vehicle. To lock the sliding door from the outside, turn the key toward the front of the vehicle.

Lock the sliding door from inside the vehicle by moving the manual locking lever down. Unlock it by moving the lever up. If you have the optional power door locks, the sliding door lock has a delay feature. See “Power Door Locks” or “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index.

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Power Sliding Door (Option) With this option, you can open and close the sliding door with switches inside your vehicle. If you have the optional Remote Lock Control system, you can also operate the sliding door with your remote transmitter. See “Remote Lock Control” in the Index.

(I c

To operate the power sliding door: the powel- sliding door override switch must be disabled. This switch is located in the overhead console switchbank.

Leaving young children or pets unattended in your vehicle can be dangerous. They could operate the power sliding door. A child or others could be injured. Do not leave children or pets unattended in your vehicle.

Pushing the bottom of the button will disable the power sliding door; it will not operate when either of the power door switches or the power sliding door button on the Remote Transmitter is pressed. The power sliding door override switch will also stop the door immediately, while the door is opening or closing, when the override feature is enabled. When your vehicle goes through an automatic car wash, be sure the power sliding door override feature is enabled.

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To open or close the sliding door, press and release one of two power door switches.

Y 0

When the key is in the ignition in the RUN position, the power sliding door will only open if the transaxle is in PARK (P). The transaxle does not have to be in PARK (P) to close the door. If the override feature is not enabled and the power sliding door is open or in the process of closing when you shift out of PARK (P), a buzzer will sound. This is a warning that the sliding door is not completely closed.

If you shift the transaxle out of PARK (P) and accelerate before the power sliding door latches closed, the door may reverse to the open position. A child or others could fall out of the vehicle and be injured. Always make sure the power sliding door is closed and latched before you drive away.

One is mounted on the wall, just in front of the right side sliding door. The other switch is located in the overhead console switchbank. The sliding door must be unlocked for it to operate. The key does not have to be in the ignition. To help avoid accidental operation of the sliding door, disable the power sliding door by pushing the power sliding door override switch.

You or others could be injured if caught in the path of the sliding door. Make sure the door path is clear before closing the door.

Objects caught in the path of the power sliding door may be damaged. Make sure the door path is clear before closing the door. To manually open the power sliding door when the power sliding door override feature is disabled, pull the inside or outside latch release and let go; the door will open fully. To manually open the power sliding door when the power sliding door override feature is enabled, pull the inside or outside latch release and slide the door all the way back.

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If anything obstructs the power sliding door while it is closing, the door will automatically reverse to the open position, provided it meets sufficient resistance. Resistance must be as strong as the force of the closing door, or stronger. The force of the closing door increases significantly as the door approaches the latch position.

If your vehicle is facing downward on a steep grade (15 percent or more), the door may not stay open and could slam shut, possibly injuring someone. To make sure the door does not slam shut, enable the power sliding door override feature. Then if the door closes, it will close under the control of the power door system.

To manually close the power sliding door when the override feature is disabled, pull the inside or outside latch release or the edge of the door. Move the door about 4 inches (10 cm) toward the closed position and release. The door will close completely and latch for you. To manually close the power sliding door when the override feature is enabled, pull the inside or outside latch release and slide the door all the way forward to the latch position.

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Resetting the Power Sliding Door The power sliding door may operate incorrectly or not all because of the following conditions: 0 A low voltage or dead battery,

Disconnecting the battery or If the IGN 1, B/U LAMP, RADIO or PWR SEAT/PSD fuse is removed or blown.

See “Fuse Panel” in the Index for more information about your fuse panel. If any of these conditions occur, the power sliding door will need to be reset. To do this, follow the directions listed here. It will be easier if you read through them once before beginning this procedure. 1.

Check to be sure the power sliding door is unlocked and securely closed. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position. Enable the power sliding door override feature. Remove the RADIO fuse from the underhood fuse and relay center. Leave it out for 30 seconds. Reinstall the fuse and wait 1 0 seconds. Disable the power sliding door override feature.

2 . 3. 4.

5. 6.

7. Push either of the power door buttons to open the

power sliding door.

8. Wait five seconds and close the door by pushing

either power door button.

9. Wait five seconds and repeat Steps 7 and 8. If the door does not rest in the fully open position after repeating Step 7, repeat Steps 7 and 8 again. If the door still does not operate correctly, see your retailer for service. Sliding Door Security Lock Your Oldsmobile is equipped with a sliding door security lock that helps prevent young children or other passengers from opening the sliding door from the inside. This lock is on both doors if your vehicle has the dual sliding doors. If you have the optional power sliding door, you can override the security lock by pressing either power door switch when the power sliding door override feature is disabled. See “Power Sliding Door” earlier in the section. The security lock lever is located on the inside of the sliding door, on the front edge of the door. To access the lever, open the sliding door. Use the security lock label on the edge of the door as a guide.

To use the security lock, move the security lock lever all the way up and close the door from the outside.

'I

If you have the optional power sliding door, disable the power sliding door by pushing the override switch on the overhead console. The power sliding door cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use.

If you want to open the sliding door when the security lock is on, unlock the sliding door and open the door from the outside. If you have the optional power sliding door, disable the power sliding door override feature. Press either power door switch.

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~~

Liftgate

You should let adults and older children know how the security lock works, and how to cancel the lock. If you don’t, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the sliding door from the inside when the security lock feature is in use. Canceling the Sliding Door Security Lock 1. Unlock the sliding door and open the door from the

outside.

2. Move the security lock lever all the way down. The sliding door lock will now work normally.

To unlock the liftgate from the outside, turn the key in the cylinder clockwise. To lock the liftgate using the key, turn the key counterclockwise. Open the liftgate using the handle above the license plate. Once slightly opened, the liftgate will rise by itself. Lamps in the rear of the vehicle will come on, illuminating the rear cargo area (see “Interior Lamps” in the Index).

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NOTICE:

Be sure there are no overhead obstructions, such as a garage door, before you open the liftgate. You could slam the liftgate into something and break the glass.

To close the liftgate, pull down on the handle, then firmly shut the liftgate. Don’t drive with the liftgate open, even slightly. See“Engine Exhaust” in the Index. 2-22

A light on your instrument panel will warn you if the liftgate is not completely closed (see “Door Ajar Warning Light” in the Index).

It can be dangerous to drive with the liftgate open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the liftgate open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the liftgate:

Make sure all windows are shut. Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on bi-level (outside air button is pressed). That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. 0 If you have air outlets on or under the

instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

Content Theft-Deterrent (Option) If your vehicle has this option, it has a theft-deterrent alarm system.

A light located on top of your instrument panel (near the center of the vehicle, next to the windshield) will flash slowly to let everyone know that the system has been armed. While armed, the doors will not unlock with the power lock switch.

Once armed, the alarm will go off if someone tries to enter the vehicle (without using the key chain transmitter or a key), breaks a window, tries to damage the vehicle or turns the ignition on. The horn will sound and your vehicle’s park lamps will flash for up to two minutes. The system will also cut off the fuel supply, preventing the vehicle from being driven. When the alarm is armed, the liftgate may be opened with the key chain transmitter or with a key. Arming with the Power Lock Switch Your alarm system will arm when you use either power lock switch to lock the doors while any door or the liftgate is open and the key is removed from the ignition (if you would like to turn off power lock switch arming, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index). The security light flashes quickly to let you know when the system is ready to arm with the power door lock switches. The security light will stop flashing and stay 011, when you press the rear of the power lock switch, to let you know the system is arming. After all doors and the liftgate are closed and locked, the security light will begin flashing at a very slow rate to let you know the system is armed.

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Arming with the Key Chain Transmitter Your alarm system will arm when you use your key chain transmitter to lock the doors if the key is not in the ignition. The security light will turn on to let you know the system is arming. After all doors and the liftgate are closed and locked, the security light will begin flashing at a very slow rate to let you know the system is armed. Arming with Your Key Your alarm system will arm when you use your key to lock the doors. The security light will turn on to let you know the system is arming. After all doors and the liftgate are closed and locked, the security light will begin flashing at a very slow rate to let you know the system is armed. If you would like your key not to arm the system, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. Arming Confirmation If remote unlock confirmation is on (see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index), your park lamps will flash briefly to let you know when your alarm system has armed.

Disarming with the Key Chain Transmitter Your alarm system will disarm when you use your key chain transmitter to unlock the doors. The security light will stop flashing to let you know the system is no longer armed. Disarming with Your Key Your alarm system will disarm when you use your key to unlock the doors. The security light will stop flashing to let you know the system is no longer armed. If you would like your key not to disarm the alarm system, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. Nuisance Alarms If you experience nuisance alarms (alarms which are not caused by the opening of a door or the liftgate and are not desirable), you may need to reduce the damage detection sensitivity. Try programming the Content Theft Deterrent to Mode 1. See “Locks and Lighting Choices’’ in the Index. If you continue to experience nuisance alarms, you may want to try turning off damage detection by programming your Content Theft Deterrent to Mode 2. See “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index.

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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 1.f you park i n a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your key. But what if you have to leave your key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? 0 Put your valuables in a storage area, like your

glove box. Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

If you are still having trouble with nuisance alarms, you can turn off the Content Theft Deterrent system by programming your Content Theft Deterrent to Mode 3. See “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index. See your Retailer or qualified technician for service. Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Oldsmobile has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your Oldsmobile and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors.

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New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE:

Ignition Positions With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you I L A turn the switch to five positions.

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

Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or 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.

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ACCESSORY (A): An on position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition switch as you turn the top of it toward you.

LOCK (B): This is the only position in which you can remove the key, This locks your steering wheel, ignition and transaxle. OFF (C): This position unlocks the steering wheel, ignition, and transaxle, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed, but never try to push-start your vehicle. A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is off and the key is in the ignition. RUN (D):This is an on position to which the switch returns after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the RUN position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use the RUN position to operate your electrical power accessories, and to display some instrument panel warning lights.

START (E): This position starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to the RUN position for normal driving. Note that even if the engine is not running, the positions ACCESSORY and RUN are on positions that allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio.

NOTICE:

If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure it is 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.

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

NOTICE:

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.

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

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

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

1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

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

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

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

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 (Option)

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

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To Use the Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood, release the reusable tie-strap and

unwrap the electrical cord.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 11 0-volt AC outlet.

- - I

4. After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure to

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

ON:

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

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Automatic Transaxle Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever.

If you cannot shi.ft 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 move the shift lever into the gear you wish. See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in this section.

P R N D 3 2 1

1 A CAUTION:

PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your Oldsmobile has Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the RUN position. As you step on the brake pedal, while in PARK (P), you may hear a click from the solenoid of the BTSI. This ensures that the BTSI is operating properly.

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

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REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. 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 transaxle, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in 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. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

NOTICE:

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

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.

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

Going less than 35 mph (56 k d h ) , push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down.

You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, but it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): 0 When driving on hilly, winding roads. 0 When towing a trailer (so there is less shifting

between gears).

0 When going down a steep hill.

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

NOTICE:

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

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NOTICE:

If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or if it seems not to shift gears as you go faster, something may be wrong with a transaxle system sensor. If you drive very far that way, your vehicle can be damaged. So, if this happens, have your vehicle serviced right away. Until then, you can use SECOND (2) when you are driving less than 35 mph (55 kmh) and THIRD (3) for higher speeds.

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), the transaxle won’t downshift into first gear until the vehicle is going slow enough.

NOTICE:

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

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Parking Brake

To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot and push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot.

If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot while you push down on the parking brake pedal with your left foot. (To release the tension on the parking brake cable, you will need to apply about the same amount of pressure to the parking brake pedal as you did when you set the parking brake.) When you remove your foot from the parking brake pedal, it will pop up to the release position.

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

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

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 with your left foot.

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

like this: 0 Pull the lever toward you.

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into the PARK (P) position, 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. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

Move the lever up as far as it will go.

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

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

Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your Oldsmobile has Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brakes