2001 Pontiac Firebird Owners Manual

An improperly attached roof panel may fall into or fly off the vehicle. You or others could be injured. After installing the roof panel, always check that it is firmly attached by pushing up on the underside of the panel. Check now and then to be sure the roof panel is firmly in place.

3. Push the handle down to close and secure the panel in the slot. To lock each panel in the storage area, use your door key.

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1. When installing the panels on the roof, keep the outboard edge of the panel raised about 3 inches (8 cm) above the roof while placing the inboard edge of the panel under the center of the roof.

2. After the inboard edge of the panel is in position

under the center roof rail, lower the outboard edge of the panel into position, close the latch and lock the T-top.

NOTICE:

Do not attempt to install the panels by sliding them horizontally toward the center roof rail. Doing so may cause the weatherstrips to be aligned improperly, which may result in leaks and possible damage to the weatherstrips.

NOTICE:

High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle. Never spray water directly at the roof panel joints. This will cause leaks.

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T-Top Sunshades

To install the T-top sunshades: 1. Start with the panel marked DRIVER FRONT.

Unlatch the driver’s side T-top, raise it halfway and close the latch handle.

2. With the top raised and resting on the center roof

rail, slide the flat edge of the sunshade panel (with the vinyl side to the glass) between the glass and plastic trim, making sure the edge marked DRIVER FRONT is pointing to the front of the vehicle.

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3. Open the latch and close the T-top. Check to see if there are any gaps showing. Unlatch the T-top and adjust the sunshade as required.

4. Once the sunshade is installed properly, you can

stick the VelcroR buttons on the glass for a proper fit every time you install the sunshades. To do this, first remove the T-top with the sunshade installed and place it upside down on a table or bench. Take care not to scratch the glass.

5. Pull the sunshade back a little and remove the

backing paper from the Velcro buttons. Push the sunshade back into place, sticking the Velcro to the glass.

6. Install the T-top, close the latch and lock the

T-top. Repeat the previous steps for the passenger-side sunshade.

You can store the sunshades two different ways: D When the T-tops are in use, store the sunshades in their storage area in the rear of the vehicle. Make sure the cargo cover is in its closed, upright position.

D When you have the T-tops off and in their storage

slots, store the sunshades on the T-tops, in their installed position.

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Convertible Top (If Equipped) The following procedures explain the proper operation of your convertible top. Lowering Your Convertible Top

NOTICE:

It is not recommended that you raise or lower the top while the vehicle is moving.

NOTICE:

Don’t lower the top if it is damp or wet. When the top is down, trapped water can cause stains, mildew and damage to the inside of your vehicle. Be sure to dry off the top before you lower it.

NOTICE:

Don’t leave your convertible out with the top down for any long periods of time. The sun and the rain can damage your seat material and other things inside your vehicle.

1. It is recommended that you park on a level surface.

Set the parking brake firmly. Shift an automatic transmission into PARK (P) or a manual transmission into REVERSE (R). 2. Turn the ignition to ACC or RUN. 3. Lower both of the sun visors.

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NOTICE:

It is not recommended to lower the top if your vehicle is out in cold weather (0_F /-18_C or lower), or you may damage top components.

NOTICE:

Before lowering the convertible top into the storage area, be sure there are no objects in the way of the folded, stored top. The weight of a stored top on items in the storage area will cause the convertible top back glass to break.

4. Unlock the front of the convertible top by pushing on the smaller part of the latch, then pulling down on the larger part of the latch. Be sure the hook on the latch that attaches into the hole at the windshield releases.

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5. Make sure nothing or

anyone is on or around the top. Push and hold the down arrow on the lower part of the convertible TOP switch.

Installing the Boot Cover After lowering the convertible top, you may want to install the boot cover. The three-piece boot cover is stored in a bag in the hatch area. 1. Flip the two convertible top latches to the

closed position.

2. Open the hatch and remove the two side covers and

middle section from the storage bag.

The switch is located on the console in front of the gearshift lever. The top will automatically lower into the storage area.

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3. Install the two side covers by inserting the tab into the front seatbelt cover. Lower the covers onto the vehicle.

4. Install the middle section of the cover by sliding the tabs into the slots on the right side cover. Lower the cover and insert the latch.

5. Close the hatch.

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Removing Your Boot Cover 1. Open the hatch.

2. Remove the middle piece of the cover by pushing in

on the latch and lifting up on the cover.

3. Remove the two side pieces of the boot cover

by lifting the rear cover and sliding them out of their slots.

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4. Store each piece of the cover in its separate

compartment according to the graphic printed inside of the storage bag. Store the bag in the trunk area and close the hatch.

5. Disengage the two convertible top latches.

Raising Your Convertible Top 1.

It is recommended that you park on a level surface. Set the parking brake firmly. If you have an automatic transmission, shift into PARK (P). If you have a manual transmission, shift into REVERSE (R).

2. Turn the ignition to ACC or RUN (or RAP must

be active).

3. Lower both sun visors and lower both windows at least 3 inches (8 cm). If the boot cover is in place, it must be removed first.

NOTICE:

It is not recommended that you raise or lower the top while the vehicle is moving.

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4. Push and hold the up arrow on the top part of the convertible TOP switch.

5. Pull down on the center opening and align the hooks with the holes. Push forward on the larger part of the latch until it clicks. Do not force the latch. If it is hard to lock, the top is not properly aligned.

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NOTICE:

The convertible top may be tight when pushing forward on the latch when your vehicle is new, but it will loosen up with time. Make sure that the hooks are properly aligned before using any kind of force.

If your vehicle has a power loss, such as a dead battery, you can still raise or lower the top manually by turning the valve in the driver’s side of the trunk area.

1. Open the hatch and find the tab located along the left

side trim panel.

2. Lift up the tab and turn the valve counterclockwise

to release the hydraulic pressure. 3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. You can now raise or lower your top manually. Be sure to close the valve after installing your top so you can raise or lower it electrically later.

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The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System

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The main components of your instrument panel are the following:

A. Fog Lamp Switch B. Main Lamp Control C. Air Vents D. Instrument Panel Cluster E. Horn F. Audio System G. Glove Box H. Remote Hatch Release I. Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped) J. Rear Window Defogger Button

K. Convertible Top Switch (If Equipped) L. Traction Control System Switch (Option) M. Ashtray (Automatic Transmission Shown) N. Shift Lever (Automatic Transmission Shown) O. Cupholders P. Front Console Q. Parking Brake Lever R. Cigarette Lighter S. Accessory Power Outlet T. Comfort Controls

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Instrument Panel Cluster Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, your engine’s rpms, about how much fuel you have left and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.

5.7L V8 Engine shown, 3800 V6 Engine similar (United States shown, Canada similar)

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Trip Odometer

Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. If possible, the new one has to be set to the same reading the old one had. If it can’t be, then it’s set at zero, and a label on the driver’s door must show the old reading and when the new one was installed.

The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last set the trip odometer to zero. To set the trip odometer to zero, press the TRIP OIL/RESET knob on the instrument panel cluster.

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Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on briefly when you start the engine just to let you know they’re working. If you are familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed when this happens. Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let you know when there’s a problem with your vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They’re a big help.

Tachometer The tachometer displays the engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (rpm).

NOTICE:

Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the red area, or engine damage may occur.

Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury.

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Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts.

The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 70 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on.

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

United States

Canada

This light will come on when you start your vehicle, and it will flash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready. If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the vehicle or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away.

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CAUTION:

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle, it means the air bag system may not be working properly. The air bags in your vehicle may not inflate in a crash, or they could even inflate without a crash. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle serviced right away if the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle.

The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

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Voltmeter

You can read the battery voltage on your voltmeter. If it reads less than 11 volts or more than 16 volts while your engine is running, and it stays there, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system.

Have it checked right away. Driving with the voltmeter reading in a warning zone could drain your battery. If you idle your engine for a while, the voltmeter reading might move into the low voltage zone (indicated by red dots). If the reading stays in the low voltage zone while you are driving, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system. Have it checked. While the voltmeter reads in the low voltage zone, your battery may not be able to power certain electrical accessories, like ABS. (If this happens, the ABS INOP light will come on. See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.) If you must drive a short distance with the voltmeter reading in a warning zone, turn off all your accessories, including your air conditioning and audio system.

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

United States

Canada

This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.

If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

CAUTION:

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

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

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Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

United States

Canada

With the anti-lock brake system, the light will come on when your engine is started and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal. If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays on longer than normal after you’ve started your engine, turn the ignition off. Or, if the light comes on and stays on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the light is on and the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. Adjust your driving accordingly.

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The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Traction Control System Warning Light (Option)

This warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.

If it stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your traction control system and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. The traction control system warning light will come on if you turn the system off by pressing the TCS button located in front of the console, the warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the system back on, press the button again. The warning light should go off. See “Traction Control System” in the Index for more information.

If the traction control system warning light comes on and stays on for an extended period of time when the system is turned on, your vehicle needs service. Low Traction Light

When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, this light will come on.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is approaching an overheating condition.

If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

If you have the traction control system, this light will also come on when the system is limiting wheel spin. You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal. Slippery road conditions may exist if the low traction light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few seconds after the traction control system stops limiting wheel spin. The low traction light also comes on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be there to tell you when the anti-lock brake system or traction control system is active.

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

United States

Canada

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction. 2-90

NOTICE:

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

NOTICE:

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

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

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

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

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

cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following.

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

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

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Are you low on fuel? As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine may not run as efficiently as designed since small amounts of air are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire. The system can detect this. Adding fuel should correct this condition. Make sure to install the fuel cap properly. See “Filling Your Tank” in the Index. It will take a few driving trips to turn the light off. Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See “Fuel” in the Index. Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditions may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on. If you experience one or more of these conditions, change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. If none of the above steps have made the light turn off, have your dealer or qualified service center check the vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed. 2-92

Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Some state/provincial and local governments have or may begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on your vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent you from getting a vehicle registration. Here are some things you need to know in order to help your vehicle pass an inspection: Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the SERVICE ENGINE SOON or CHECK ENGINE light is on or not working properly. Your vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD (on-board diagnostic) system determines that critical emission control systems have not been completely diagnosed by the system. The vehicle would be considered not ready for inspection. This can happen if you have recently replaced your battery or if your battery has run down. The diagnostic system is designed to evaluate critical emission control systems during normal driving. This may take several days of routine driving. If you have done this and your vehicle still does not pass the inspection for lack of OBD system readiness, see your dealer or qualified service center to prepare the vehicle for inspection.

Oil Pressure Gage

3800 V6 Engine

5.7L V8 Engine

This gage tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure. The gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) or kPa (kilopascals) when the engine is running. On the 3800 V6 engine, the oil pressure should be 20 to 120 psi (140 to 827 kPa). On the 5.7L V8 engine, oil pressure should be 20 to 80 psi (140 to 550 kPa). In certain situations such as long, extended idles on hot days, it could read as low as 6 psi (40 kPa) and still be considered normal.

It may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the red area show the normal operating range. Readings in the red area tell you that the engine is low on oil, or that you might have some other oil problem. See “Engine Oil” in the Index.

CAUTION:

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

NOTICE:

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

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Low Oil Light

Oil Change Light

This warning light should come on briefly while you are starting your engine. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.

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

If the OIL CHANGE light comes on and stays on for 60 seconds after you start the engine, have the oil changed. For additional information, see “Engine Oil, When to Change” in the Index. After changing the engine oil, the system must be reset. See “How to Reset the Oil Change Light” in the Index.

If the light stays on after starting your engine, your engine oil level may be too low. You may need to add oil. See “Engine Oil” in the Index.

NOTICE:

The oil level monitoring system only checks the oil level when you are starting your engine. It does not keep monitoring the level once the engine is running. Also, the oil level check only works when the engine has been turned off long enough for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

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Service Vehicle Light

Hatch Ajar Light

This warning light should come on in your instrument panel cluster for a three-second bulb check when you first start your vehicle. If the light doesn’t come on, have it serviced.

This warning light should come on in your instrument panel cluster for a three-second bulb check when you first start your vehicle. If the light doesn’t come on, have it serviced.

This light will stay on steady if you have certain non-emission related vehicle problems. These problems may not be obvious and may affect vehicle performance or durability. Consult a qualified dealer for necessary repairs to maintain top vehicle performance. Check Gages Light

This warning light will come on briefly when you start the engine.

This light will stay on steady if your hatch is open or ajar and the ignition key is in RUN. Fuel Gage

Your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left when the ignition is on.

If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your gages to see if they are in the warning areas.

When the indicator nears E (empty), you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon.

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Here are four things that some owners ask about. All these things are normal and do not indicate that anything is wrong with the fuel gage. D At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the

gage reads F (full).

D It takes more (or less) fuel to fill up than the gage reads. For example, the gage reads half full, but it took more (or less) than half of the tank’s capacity to fill it.

D The gage pointer may move while cornering, braking

or speeding up.

D The gage may not indicate E (empty) when the

ignition is turned off.

Low Fuel Light If your fuel is low, your vehicle’s CHECK GAGES light on your instrument panel cluster will come on. See “Check Gages Light” in the Index.

Reduced Engine Power Light (V6 Engine Only)

The REDUCED ENG PWR warning light should come on in your instrument panel cluster for a three-second bulb check when you first start your vehicle.

If the light doesn’t come on, have it serviced. If the REDUCED ENG PWR warning light comes on, a noticeable reduction in the vehicle’s performance may occur. The vehicle may be driven at a reduced speed while the REDUCED ENG PWR light is on, but acceleration and speed may be reduced. Anytime this warning light stays on, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized Pontiac dealer as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair.

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Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

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

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Comfort Controls Cooling Heating Defogging and Defrosting Rear Window Defogger Ventilation System Audio Systems Setting the Clock MonsoonR AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Equalizer AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer (If Equipped)

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Trunk Mounted CD Changer (Option) Theft-Deterrent Feature Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped) Understanding Radio Reception Tips About Your Audio System Care of Your Cassette Tape Player Care of Your Compact Discs Care of Your Compact Disc Player Fixed Mast Antenna Power Antenna Mast Care

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Comfort Controls

With this system, you can control the heating, air conditioning and ventilation in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section.

Fan Control Knob

Turn the fan knob to select the force of air

you want.

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Temperature Control Knob Turn the center knob to change the temperature of the air flowing from the system. Turn it toward the red (clockwise) for warmer air and toward the blue (counterclockwise) for cooler air.

Air Control Knob OFF: In this setting the system is off. MAX: This setting provides maximum cooling or quick cool-down on very hot days. This setting recirculates most of the air inside your vehicle. If it is used for long periods of time the air may become dry. This setting directs air through the upper air vents. A/C: Use A/C for normal cooling on hot days. This setting cools outside air and directs it through the upper air vents. The air conditioner compressor operates in MAX, A/C, BI-LEVEL, BLEND and DEFROST when the outside temperature is above freezing. When the air conditioner is on, you may sometimes notice slight changes in your vehicle’s engine speed and power due to the operation of the compressor.

 BI-LEVEL: This setting directs air through the

upper air vents and the heater ducts.

VENT: This setting directs air through the upper

air vents.

HEATER: This setting directs most of the air

through the heater ducts and some of the air through the windshield defroster vents.

BLEND: This setting directs air through the

windshield defroster vents and the heater ducts.

DEFROST: This setting directs most of the air

through the windshield defroster vents and some of the air through the heater ducts. Cooling The air conditioner works best if you keep your windows closed. On very hot days, open the windows just long enough for the hot air to escape. 1. Turn the air control knob to A/C for normal cooling.

For faster cooling, turn the knob to MAX.

2. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed.

Heating The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. 1. Turn the air control knob to HEATER. 2. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed. 3. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

During initial start-up only, if your vehicle is equipped with an optional engine coolant heater, you can use it in cold weather (around +20_F/-8_C or lower) to improve heater performance on initial start up. See “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. Bi-Level You may want to use bi-level on cool, but sunny days. This setting directs cool air toward your body and warmer air toward your feet. 1. Turn the air control knob to BI-LEVEL. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed.

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Defogging and Defrosting 1. Turn the air control knob to DEFROST. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to the

desired setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed. The side window defogging works equally as well in the heater, blend and defrost modes. Rear Window Defogger

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

Press the button to turn on the defogger. An indicator light will come on to remind you that the defogger is on. The defogger will turn off automatically after about 10 minutes of use. If you turn it on again, the defogger will operate for about five minutes only. You can turn the defogger off by pressing the button again. The indicator light will go off when the system is turned off. Do not attach anything like a temporary vehicle license or a decal across the defogger grid on the rear window.

NOTICE:

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

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Ventilation System

Adjust the direction of airflow by moving the vents. Your vehicle’s flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the blower fan is running.

For mild outside temperature when little heating or cooling is needed, you can still direct outside air through your vehicle. 1. Turn the air control knob to VENT. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed.

Ventilation Tips D Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or

any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

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

fan control knob clockwise for a few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture, and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

D Keep the air path under the front seats clear of objects. This helps air to circulate throughout your vehicle.

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MonsoonR AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Equalizer

Included with the MonsoonR AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Equalizer are eight high performance speakers, if you have a convertible, or 10 high performance speakers, if you have a coupe, and a powerful eight channel amplifier. Please see your dealer for details.

Audio Systems Your audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your audio system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. If you have power door locks, your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory Power (RAP). With RAP, you can play your audio system even after the ignition is off. See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index. Setting the Clock Press and hold HR until the correct hour appears. Press and hold MIN until the correct minute appears. There will be a two-second delay before the clock goes into time-set mode, and the colon on the display will blink while in this mode.

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Playing the Radio POWER-VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this button. When the radio is playing, press this knob to recall the station frequency.

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

PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM/FM to select the band. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until SET appears on the display. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven-band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range.

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Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you’re not using them.

Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE and BAL controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show an arrow to show which side of the tape is playing. When the down indicator arrow is lit, selections listed on the bottom side of the cassette are playing. When the up arrow is lit, selections listed on the top side of the cassette are playing. The tape player automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the end of the tape.

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If “E” and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error. D E10: The tape is tight and the player can’t turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is working properly.

D E11: The tape is broken. Try a new tape. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to search for the previous selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during PREV or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to stop searching. The sound will mute during PREV or SEEK operation.

NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to search for the next selection on the tape. If you hold the button, the player will continue moving forward through the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during NEXT or SEEK operation. Press NEXT or the SEEK up arrow to stop searching. The sound will mute during NEXT or SEEK operation. PROG (3): Press this button to play the other side of the tape. D (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. The double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. REV (5): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape reverses. You may select stations during REV operation by using SEEK or TUNE.

FWD (6): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape advances. You may select stations during FWD operation by using SEEK or TUNE. AM/FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. TAPE/PLAY: Press this button to change to the tape function when the radio is on. The tape symbol with an arrow will appear on the display when the tape is active. To return to playing the radio, press the AM/FM button.

EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape. The radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the radio off if this button is pressed first. CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

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CD Adapter Kits It is possible to use a portable CD player adapter kit with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass feature on your tape player. To activate the bypass feature, use the following steps: 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACC. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press and hold the TAPE/PLAY button for three

seconds. The tape symbol on the display will flash for two seconds, indicating the feature is active.

4. Insert the adapter into the cassette slot. It will power

up the radio and begin playing.

This override routine will remain active until EJECT is pressed.

AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer (If Equipped)

If your vehicle is equipped with the AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer, included are four speakers. Please see your dealer for details. If your vehicle is equipped with the Monsoon AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer (not shown), included are eight (convertibles only) or 10 high performance speakers and a powerful eight channel amplifier. This feature requires power windows and door locks. Please see your dealer for details.

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Playing the Radio POWER-VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. If you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

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

PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM/FM to select the band. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until SET appears on the display. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

5. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven-band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range.

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.

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FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you’re not using them.

Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. If the ignition and the radio are on, the disc will begin playing. If you want to insert a disc when the ignition is off, first press EJECT. If you’re driving on a very rough road or if it’s very hot, the disc may not play and “E” (error) and a number may appear on the radio display. If the disc comes out, it could be that: D The disc is upside down. D It is dirty, scratched or wet. D The air is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and

try again.)

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.

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PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc. NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to go to the start of the next track. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. RDM (3): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. The display will show RDM. Press RDM again to turn off random play. REV (5): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. Release it to play the passage. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. RECALL: Press this button to see what track is currently playing. Press RECALL again within five seconds to see how long the track has been playing. When a new track starts to play, the track number will also appear. Press RECALL a third time and the time of day will be displayed.

AM/FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is playing. The disc will stop but remain in the player. CD/PLAY: Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on.

EJECT: Press this button to remove the disc or

stop the disc and switch to the radio. EJECT will work with the radio off. Trunk-Mounted CD Changer (Option) With the optional compact disc changer, you can play up to 12 discs continuously. Normal size discs may be played using the trays supplied in the magazine. The small discs (8 cm) can be played only with specially designed trays.

NOTICE:

Place large objects in the trunk appropriately so that they will not come into contact with the CD changer.

You must first load the magazine with discs before you can play a compact disc. Each of the 12 trays holds one disc. Press the button on the back of the magazine and pull gently on one of the trays. Load the trays from bottom to top, placing a disc on the tray label side down. If you load a disc label side up, the disc will not play and an error will occur. Gently push the tray back into the magazine slot. Repeat this procedure for loading up to 12 discs in the magazine.

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Once you have loaded the discs in the magazine, slide open the door of the compact disc (CD) changer. Push the magazine into the changer in the direction of the arrow marked on top of the magazine.

Close the door by sliding it all the way to the left. If the door is left partially open, the changer will not operate and an error will occur. When the door is closed, the changer will begin checking for discs in the magazine. This will continue for up to two minutes depending on the number of discs loaded. To eject the magazine from the player, slide the CD changer door all the way open. The magazine will automatically eject. Remember to keep the door closed whenever possible to keep dirt and dust from getting inside the changer.

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All of the CD functions are controlled by the radio buttons except for ejecting the magazine. Whenever a CD magazine with discs is loaded in the changer, the compact disc symbol will appear on the radio display. If the CD changer is checking the magazine for CDs, the compact disc symbol will flash on the display until the changer is ready to play. When a CD begins playing, CD will appear in the bottom left corner and a disc and track number will be displayed. The disc numbers are listed on the front of the magazine.

Compact Disc Errors If “E” and a number appear on the display, an error has occurred and the compact disc temporarily cannot play. The CD changer will send an error message to the receiver to indicate: D E30: Disc Label Side Up D E34: CD Changer Door Open D E35: CD Changer Cartridge Empty

If the error occurred while trying to play a CD in the compact disc player or changer, the following conditions may have caused the error: D The road is too rough. The disc should play when the

road is smoother.

D The disc is dirty, scratched or wet. D The disc is label side up. If so, load the disc label

side down.

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

try again.

D The CD changer door is open. Completely close the

door to restore normal operation.

D An empty magazine is inserted in the CD changer.

Try the magazine again with a disc loaded on one of the trays.

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.

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Playing a Compact Disc If your vehicle is equipped with the Monsoon AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Equalizer, the following buttons are used for the trunk-mounted CD changer. PREV (1): Press this button to go back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. Press PREV again to go to the previous track on the disc. NEXT (2): Press this button to advance to the next track on the disc. PROG (3): Press this button to select the next disc in the magazine. If a CD cannot be played, its number will be skipped when selecting discs while using the PROG button. (4): Press this button to enter the random play mode. RDM will appear on the display. While in this mode, the tracks on the discs will be played in random order. If you press SEEK while in the random mode, discs and tracks will go to the next random selection. Press this button again to turn off the random feature and return to normal operation. REV (5): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. As the CD reverses, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage. 3-16

FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track. As the CD advances, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage. RECALL: Press this button to see what track is currently playing. Press RECALL again within five seconds to see how long the track has been playing. When a new track starts to play, the track number will also appear. Press RECALL a third time and the time of day will be displayed. SEEK: Press the SEEK down arrow while playing a CD to go back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you press it again, the changer will go to previous tracks. Press the SEEK up arrow and it will go to the next higher track on the disc. TAPE/PLAY: Press this button to play a CD if you have a magazine loaded in the changer and the radio is playing. To return to the radio while a CD is playing, press AM/FM. You can also press this button to switch between a cassette tape and CD, if both are loaded. If your vehicle is equipped with the Monsoon AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer, the following buttons are used for the trunk-mounted CD changer.

PREV (1): Press this button to go back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. Press PREV again to go to the previous track on the disc. NEXT (2): Press this button to advance to the next track on the disc. RDM (3): Press this button to enter the random play mode. RDM will appear on the display. While in this mode, the tracks on the discs will be played in random order. If you press SEEK while in the random mode, discs and tracks will go to the next random selection. Press this button again to turn off the random feature and return to normal operation. (4): Press this button to select the next disc in the magazine. If a CD cannot be played, its number will be skipped when selecting discs while using this button. REV (5): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. As the CD reverses, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage.

FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track. As the CD advances, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage. RECALL: Press this button to see what track is currently playing. Press RECALL again within five seconds to see how long the track has been playing. When a new track starts to play, the track number will also appear. Press RECALL a third time and the time of day will be displayed. SEEK: Press the SEEK down arrow while playing a CD to go back to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you press it again, the changer will go to previous tracks. Press the SEEK up arrow and it will go to the next higher track on the disc. CD/PLAY: Press this button to play a CD if you have a magazine loaded in the changer and the radio is playing. To return to the radio while a CD is playing, press AM/FM. You can also press this button to switch between a CD in the compact disc player and a CD in the trunk-mounted CD changer, if both are loaded.

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Theft-Deterrent Feature THEFTLOCKR is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen. When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery power is removed. If your battery loses power for any reason, you must unlock the radio with the secret code before it will operate. Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting the procedure. If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4.

1. Write down any three or four-digit number from

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

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

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

with your code.

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

with your code.

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

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

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

SEC to let you know that your radio is secure.

With the ignition off, the THEFTLOCK LED indicator will flash, indicating a secured radio.

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

with your code.

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

with your code.

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

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

If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear on the display. You will have to wait an hour with the ignition on before you can try again. When you try again, you will only have three more chances (eight tries per chance) to enter the correct code before INOP appears. If you lose or forget your code, contact your dealer.

Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition to ACC or RUN. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down

until SEC shows on the display.

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

with your code.

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

with your code.

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

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

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

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MUTE: Press this button to silence the system. Press it again to turn on the sound. SEEK: Press the up arrow to tune to the next radio station and the down arrow to tune to the previous radio station. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the player will advance with the up arrow and reverse with the down arrow. PRESET: Press this button to hear the radio stations that are set on your pushbuttons. Pressing this button while playing a tape will cause the tape to change sides. If it is pressed while playing a CD in the radio head, the CD random feature can be turned off and on. If it is pressed while in the CD changer mode, the player will index to the next disc. AM FM: Press this button to select AM, FM1 or FM2. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the tape or disc will stop playing and the radio will play. If this button is pressed with a CD in the CD changer, the disc will go to the next selection.

Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped)

If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio and compact disc functions using the buttons on your steering wheel. VOLUME: Press the up or down arrow to increase or decrease volume. PLAY: Press this button to play a cassette tape or compact disc when the radio is playing.

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Understanding Radio Reception

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

FM Stereo FM stereo will give you the best sound, but FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go. Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts to it.

To help avoid hearing loss or damage: D Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. D Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably

and clearly.

NOTICE:

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

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

When using a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape. To prevent the cleaning cassette from being ejected, use the following steps. 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACC. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press and hold the TAPE AUX button for

five seconds. The tape symbol on the display will flash for two seconds.

4. Insert the scrubbing action cleaning cassette. 5. Eject the cleaning cassette after the manufacturer’s

recommended cleaning time.

When the cleaning cassette has been ejected, the cut tape detection feature is active again. You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject on its own. A non-scrubbing action cleaner may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner. The use of a non-scrubbing action, dry-type cleaning cassette is not recommended.

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After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. Be sure never to touch the side without writing when handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.

Care of Your Compact Disc Player The use of CD lens cleaner discs is not advised, due to the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics with lubricants internal to the CD mechanism. Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should replace it. Check every once in a while to be sure the mast is still tightened to the rear quarter panel. If tightening is required, tighten by hand, then with a wrench one quarter turn.

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NOTICE:

Before entering an automatic car wash, turn off your radio to make the power antenna go down. This will prevent the mast from possibly getting damaged. If the antenna does not go down when you turn the radio off, it may be damaged or need to be cleaned. In either case, lower the antenna by hand by carefully pressing the antenna down.

If the mast portion of your antenna is damaged, you can easily replace it. See your dealer for a replacement kit and follow the instructions in the kit.

Power Antenna Mast Care Your power antenna will look its best and work well if it’s cleaned from time to time. To clean the antenna mast: 1. Turn on the ignition and radio to raise the antenna. 2. Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or

equivalent solvent.

3. Wipe the cloth over the mast sections, removing

any dirt.

4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. 5. Make the antenna go up and down by turning the

radio or ignition off and on.

6. Repeat if necessary.

NOTICE:

Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication could damage it.

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Section 4 Your Driving and the Road

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

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Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Traction Control System (Option) Steering Off-Road Recovery Passing Loss of Control Driving at Night

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Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads City Driving Freeway Driving Before Leaving on a Long Trip Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads Winter Driving Recreational Vehicle Towing Loading Your Vehicle Towing a Trailer

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

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

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Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: D Judgment D Muscular Coordination D Vision D Attentiveness. Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. In recent years, about 16,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured. Many adults -- by some estimates, nearly half the adult population -- choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it’s against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws.

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

during drinking

D The length of time it has taken the drinker to

consume the alcohol.

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

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

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

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

CAUTION:

Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You can have a serious -- or even fatal -- collision if you drive after drinking. Please don’t drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. Ride home in a cab; or if you’re with a group, designate a driver who will not drink.

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Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road.

Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle. Also see “Traction Control System” in the Index. 4-6

Braking Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But that’s only an average. It might be less with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and frustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between your vehicle and others is important. And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; the condition of your brakes; the weight of the vehicle and the amount of brake force applied.

Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life. If your engine ever stops while you’re driving, brake normally but don’t pump your brakes. If you do, the pedal may get harder to push down. If your engine stops, you will still have some power brake assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder to push.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent a braking skid. When you start your engine, or when you begin to drive away, your anti-lock brake system will check itself. You may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test is going on, and you may even notice that your brake pedal moves or pulses a little. This is normal.

United States

Canada

If there’s a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

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The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions. This can help you steer around the obstacle while braking hard.

Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each wheel (with V8 engine) or at each front wheel and at both rear wheels (with V6 engine). 4-8

As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.

Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down firmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel a slight brake pedal pulsation or notice some noise, but this is normal.

When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, this light will come on. See “Low Traction Light” in the Index.

Braking in Emergencies With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking.

Traction Control System (Option) Your vehicle may have a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system for V8 engines works the rear brakes and for V8
and V6 engines reduces engine power by closing the throttle and managing engine spark to limit wheel spin.

This light will come on when your traction control system is limiting wheel spin. See “Low Traction Light” in the Index. You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal.

The traction control system may operate on dry roads under some conditions, and you may notice a reduction in acceleration when this happens. This is normal and doesn’t mean there’s a problem with your vehicle. Examples of these conditions include a hard acceleration in a turn, or an abrupt upshift or downshift.

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If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control. See “Cruise Control” in the Index.

When the system is on, this warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem with your traction control system. See “Traction Control System Warning Light” in the Index.

When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. The traction control system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on. But you can turn the traction control system off if you ever need to. You should turn the system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck in sand, mud or snow and rocking the vehicle is required. See “Rocking Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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To turn the system off, press the TCS button located at the front of the console.

The light on the button will go off, and the traction control system warning light will come on and stay on. If the traction control system is limiting wheel spin when you press the button, the light on the button will go off and the warning light will come on -- but the system won’t turn off right away. It will wait until there’s no longer a current need to limit wheel spin. You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing the button again. The light on the button should come on, and the traction control system warning light should go off.

Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips

Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here’s why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this. The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.

Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. Refer to “Traction Control” in the Index. What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower. If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.

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Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem. Your vehicle can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. See “Braking in Emergencies” earlier in this section. It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available.

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An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object. The fact that such emergency situations are always possible is a good reason to practice defensive driving at all times and wear safety belts properly.

Off-Road Recovery You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving.

If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to one-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn your steering wheel to go straight down the roadway.

Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision. So here are some tips for passing: D “Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time.

D Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines.

If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken center line usually indicates it’s all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching traffic.

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D Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance.

D When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up,

start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a “running start” that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass,