Chevrolet Monte Carlo - Manual

iii Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Section 5 Table of Contents (cont'd) Defensive DrivingDrunken DrivingControl of a VehicleBrakingSteering Driving Tips for Various Road ConditionsRecreational Vehicle TowingLoading Your VehicleTowing a Trailer Heatin...

v Table of Contents (cont'd) Customer Assistance Information In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read. Section 8 Customer Satisfaction ProceduresCustomer Assistance Offices Roadside Assistance...

vii How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginningto end when they first receive their new vehicle. If youdo this, it will help you learn about the features andcontrols for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things ...

viii Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that coulddamage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damagewould not be covered by your warranty, and it could b...

ix For example,these symbolsare used on anoriginal battery: CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY These symbols are important foryou and your passengerswhenever your vehicle is driven: CHIL...

For a More Detailed Look at What's Under the Hood See Section 6 Tire Pressure See Section 6 Service Station Guide Oil Viscosity Engine Oil See Section 6 Engine Oil Dipstick See Section 6 Cooling System See Section 5 Hood Release See Section 6 Windshield Washer Fluid See Section 6 Spare Tire Pressure...

1-2 Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you how to adjust the seats andexplains reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try toadjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle ismoving. The sudden movement could startle andc...

1-3 6-Way Power Seat (Option) This switch is designed to control the movements ofyour seat cushion. It is located on the outboard side ofthe front seats toward the front of the seat cushion. Toadjust the seat cushion, do any of the following:D Move the seat forward or rearward by sliding the switch ...

1-4 Heated Front Seat (Option) The driver’s andpassenger’s heated seat switches are on thecenter console. Press LO to warm the seat to a lower temperature. PressHI to warm the seat to a higher temperature. To turn thisfeature off, place the switch in the center position. Reclining Front Seatbacks Li...

1-7 CAUTION: If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forwardin a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injuryto the person sitting there. Always press rearwardon the seatback to be sure it is locked. Easy Entry Manual Seat The right front passenger seat is designed to make iteasy to get into an...

1-8 Split Folding Rear Seat You can fold either side of the seatback (or both sides)down in your vehicle for more cargo space. Make surethe front seat isn’t reclined. If it is, the rear seatbackmay not fold down all the way. There is a tab located on the outboard sides of the seatbacks. To lower eit...

1-9 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety beltsproperly. It also tells you some things you should not dowith safety belts. And it explains the air bag system. CAUTION: Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t weara safety belt properly. If you are ...

1-10 In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says towear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have acrash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be soserious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t...

1-12 The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... or the instrument panel ...

1-13 or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does.You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance,and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s whysafety belts make such good sense. Here Are Questions Many People AskAbout Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q: Won’...

1-14 Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far fromhome, why should I wear safety belts? A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in anaccident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a gooddriver doesn’t protect you from things beyond yourcontrol...

1-17 Q: What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearlyas much protection this way. CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt istoo loose. In a crash, you would move forwardtoo much, which could increase injury. Theshoulder belt should fit against your ...

1-18 Q: What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckledin the wrong place like this. In a crash, the beltwould go up over your abdomen. The belt forceswould be there, not at the pelvic bones. This couldcause serious int...

1-20 Q: What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is twisted across the body. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. Ina crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of thebelt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted,make it straight so it can work properly, or askyour dealer to fix it.

1-21 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 theway. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both thebelt and your vehicle. Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone...

1-22 The best way to protect the fetus is to protect themother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s morelikely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. Forpregnant women, as for anyone, the key to makingsafety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position To learn ho...

1-23 Air Bag Systems This part explains the frontal and side impact air bag systems. Your vehicle has air bags -- a frontal air bag for the driver and another frontal air bag for the right frontpassenger. Your vehicle may also have a side impact airbag for the driver. If your vehicle has a side impa...

1-25 CAUTION: Both frontal and side impact air bags inflate withgreat force, faster than the blink of an eye. Ifyou’re too close to an inflating air bag, as youwould be if you were leaning forward, it couldseriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you inposition for air bag inflation before and d...

1-26 There is an air bagreadiness light on theinstrument panel,which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the air bag electrical system formalfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electricalproblem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Indexfor more information. How the Air Bag Systems...

1-28 CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an airbag, the bag might not inflate properly or itmight force the object into that person. The pathof an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’tput anything between an occupant and an airbag, and don’t attach or put anything on thesteering w...

1-29 In any particular crash, no one can say whether an airbag should have inflated simply because of the damageto a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Forfrontal air bags, inflation is determined by the angle ofthe impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down infrontal and near - fr...

1-31 NOTICE: If you damage the covering for the driver’s or theright front passenger’s air bag, or the air bagcovering on the driver’s seatback, the bag maynot work properly. You may have to replace theair bag module in the steering wheel, both the airbag module and the instrument panel for theright...

1-32 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. 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 acrossyou ve...

1-34 The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug onthe hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this appliesforce to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likelyto slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the beltwould apply force at your abdomen. This could causeserious or e...

1-35 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides forChildren and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide addedsafety belt comfort for older children who haveoutgrown booster seats and for small adults. Wheninstalled on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide betterpositions the belt away from the...

1-37 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions”earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulderbelt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze thebelt edges together so that you can take them out from the gui...

1-38 Lap Belt When you sit in the center seating position, you have alap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the beltlonger, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown untilthe belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same ...

1-39 Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includesinfants and all other children. Neither the distancetraveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes theneed, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, thelaw in every state in the United States and in everyCanadian provi...

1-41 CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, anyair bag when it inflates can be seriously injuredor killed. Air bags plus lap - shoulder belts offer outstanding protection for adults and olderchildren, but not for young children and infants.Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system no...

1-42 CAUTION: Newborn infants need complete support,including support for the head and neck. This isnecessary because a newborn infant’s neck isweak and its head weighs so much compared withthe rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in arear - facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash fo...

1-43 Restraint Systems for Children An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in amotor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed torestrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface.Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the centerof the vehicle. A rear - facing infant s...

1-45 Q: How do child restraints work? A: A child restraint system is any device designed foruse in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or positionchildren. A built - in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add - on child restraint system is a portable one, which ispurch...

1-57 Older Children Older children who have outgrown booster seats shouldwear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to awindow so the child can wear a lap - shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Q: What is the proper way to ...

1-58 CAUTION: Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. Thebelt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In acrash, the two children can be crushed togetherand seriously injured. A belt must be used byonly one person at a time. Q: What if a child is wearing a lap - shoulder belt, b...

1-59 CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has alap - shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, ina crash the child might slide under the belt. Thebelt’s force would then be applied right on thechild’s abdomen. That co...

1-60 Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, youshould use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, yourdealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you goin to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so theextender will be long enough for...

2-2 Windows CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the windowsclosed is dangerous. A child can be overcome bythe extreme heat and can suffer permanentinjuries or even death from heat stroke. Neverleave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with thewindows closed in warm or hot weather.

2-3 Power Windows Both doors have power window switches located on thearmrest. The switches on the driver’s door armrest controleach of the windows when the ignition is in ON, ACC, orwhen retained accessory power (RAP) is active. Express - Down Window The driver’s window switch has an express - down...

2-4 Keys CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignitionkey is dangerous for many reasons. A child orothers could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or othercontrols or even make the vehicle move. Don’tleave the keys in a vehicle with children.

2-6 Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous.D Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out of amoving vehicle. When a door is locked, thehandle won’t open it. You increase thechance of being thrown out of the vehicle ina crash if the doors aren’t locked. So...

2-7 Power Door Locks The power door lock switchis located on the door abovethe armrest. Press the top part of the switch to unlock both doors, orpress the bottom part of the switch to lock both doors. If your vehicle has the optional content theft - deterrent system and it is armed, the power door l...

2-8 Lockout Protection Feature To protect you from locking your key in the vehicle, thisfeature stops the power door locks from locking whenthe keys are in the ignition and a door is open. If a power lock switch is pressed when a door is openand the key is in the ignition, both doors will lock andth...

2-9 Operation Press UNLOCK once tounlock the driver’s door andto turn on the interiorlamps. (See “Illuminationon Remote Activation” inthe Index for more details.). Pause for about one second, then press UNLOCK againwithin five seconds to unlock the passenger’s door. To lock both doors, press LOCK. T...

2-10 If your vehicle has the optional content theft - deterrent system, the first time the remote unlock is received,three flashes will be seen and three horn chirps heard toindicate an alarm condition has occurred since lastarming. See “Content Theft - Deterrent System” in the Index. Illumination o...

2-11 NOTICE: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damagethe transmitter. To replace the battery use the following steps: 1. Insert a flat object like a coin into the slot on the back of the transmitter. Gently...

2-12 Trunk CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lidopen because carbon monoxide (CO) gas cancome into your vehicle. You can’t see or smellCO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or ifelectrical wiring or other cable connections mustp...

2-13 Trunk Assist Handle NOTICE: The trunk assist handle was not designed to beused to tie down the trunk lid or as an anchorpoint when securing items in the trunk. Improperuse of the trunk assist handle could damage it. There is an assist handle located on the inside of thetrunk lid toward the driv...

2-15 Trunk Release Sensor TrapAlert t System (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a sensor located on the undersideof the filler panel inside the trunk. The sensor is designed to open the trunk automatically.If the sensor detects motion and a difference intemperature in the trunk, the sensor will sou...

2-16 Disabling the Trunk Release Sensor A. Sensor Lens B. Disable Switch Because the sensor detects motion, there are times whenyou may want to turn off the trunk sensor so that themotion of your vehicle or items in the trunk won’t causethe trunk to open, such as the following:D when your vehicle is...

2-17 Servicing the Trunk Release Sensor The sensor lens should be inspected periodically. If the lens is dirty, wipe it gently with a clean, softcotton cloth. If there is an electrical problem with the sensor, theSERVICE VEHICLE SOON message will appear in themessage center. There are other possible...

2-18 Parking Lots Even if you park in a lot where someone will bewatching your vehicle, it’s still best to lock it up andtake your keys. But what if you have to leave your key?D If possible, park in a busy, well - lit area. D Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk or glove box. Be sur...

2-20 Vehicle Customization Settings Some of the convenience features can be reset orcustomized to perform according to your preference.The features you can program depend upon the optionsthat came with your vehicle. The following list showsthe features that can be reset or customized along withthe o...

2-21 The following information shows how to reset orcustomize features after entering the main menu: SETTINGS -- Display Current Settings OIL LIFE -- Oil Life Reset: This feature allows you to reset the GM Oil Life System t Monitor after an oil change, see “Engine Oil” in the Index. Be careful not t...

2-28 Passlock R Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlocktheft - deterrent system. Passlock is a passive theft - deterrent system. Passlock enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with avalid key. If a correct key is not used or the ignition lockcylinder is tampered with, fuel is disab...

2-29 Ignition Positions The ignition switch islocated on the instrumentpanel, to the right of thesteering column. With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn theswitch to four positions. OFF: This is the only position from which you canremove the key. Removing the key locks your ignitionand au...

2-30 START: This position starts the engine. When theengine starts, release the key. The ignition switch willreturn to ON for normal driving. When the engine is not running, ACC and ON allow youto operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio. A warning chime will sound if you open the driv...

2-32 Starting Your 3800 Series II V6 Engine 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, letgo of the key. The idle speed will go down as yourengine gets warm. NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than15 seconds at a time will cause yo...

2-33 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 andbetter fuel economy during engine warm - up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum offour hours prior to starting your vehicle. ...

2-34 Automatic Transaxle Operation Your automatic transaxle has a shift lever located on theconsole between the front seats. The above graphic is displayed on your instrument panel cluster. Maximum engine speed is limited on automatictransaxle vehicles when you’re in PARK (P) orNEUTRAL (N) to protec...

2-36 NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’realready moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, useNEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. CAUTION: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) whileyour engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is...

2-37 THIRD (3): This position is also used for normaldriving, but it offers more power and lower fueleconomy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( B). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3)instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( B): D When driving on hilly, winding roads.D When towing a trailer, so there is l...

2-38 FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power(but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You canuse it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If theshift lever is in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift intofirst gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. NOTICE: If your front whee...

2-40 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: D Hold in the button on the shift lever.D Push the lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle. 3. Turn the ignition key to OFF. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in yourhand, your ...

2-41 Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift yourtransaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of thevehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl inthe transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shiftlever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” Toprevent torqu...

2-42 Parking Over Things That Burn CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaustparts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t parkover papers, leaves, dry grass or other things thatcan burn. Engine Exhaust CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gascarbon monoxide (CO), which you can’...

2-43 Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if youever have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust intoyour vehicle. See the earlier Caution under“Engine Exha...

2-44 Tilt Wheel A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steeringwheel before you drive. You can raise the steering wheelto the highest level to give your legs more room whenyou exit and enter the vehicle, or you can lower it so thatyou’re more comfortable while driving. To adjust the wheel, h...

2-45 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and twodownward (for left) positions. These positions allow youto signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down.When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatical...

2-46 Flash-to-Pass Feature This feature lets you use your high - beam headlamps to signal the driver in front of you that you want to pass. It works even if your headlamps are off. To use it, pull the turn signal lever toward you a little,but not so far that you hear a click. If your headlamps are o...

2-47 Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever, there’s a paddlewith the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on thewindshield, push the paddle. The wipers will run forseveral sweeps and then either stop or return to yourpreset speed. The ignition key must be in the ACC orON position...

2-49 1. Press the cruise control ON button on thesteering wheel to turn it on. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Press the SET button on your steering wheel and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator. The CRUISE light on the instrument panel cluster willcome on after the cruise control ...

2-51 Exterior Lamps The lamp controls are located on the instrument panel. They control the following systems:D HeadlampsD TaillampsD Parking LampsD License LampsD Instrument Panel LightsD Dome Lamp If you pull the knob out halfway, it will turn on yourparking lamps and your other operating lamps. I...

2-52 The DRL system will make your high - beam headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when the followingconditions are met:D The ignition is on,D the headlamp switch is off andD the gearshift is not in PARK (P).When the DRL are on, only your high - beam headlamps, at a reduced level of brightness...

2-53 Fog Lamps (If Equipped) To turn the fog lamps on,press the fog lamps buttonlocated next to the exteriorlamp control on the left sideof the steering column. Yourignition must be in ON forthe fog lamps to illuminate. A light will glow in the button to let you know that thefog lamps are on. (Your ...

2-54 Illuminated Entry (If Equipped) Your courtesy lamps will come on and stay on for a settime whenever you press UNLOCK on the remotekeyless entry transmitter (if equipped). If you open a door, the lamps will stay on while it’s openand then turn off automatically about 25 seconds afteryou close it...

2-56 If your vehicle has less than 15 miles (25 km) on theodometer, the battery saver will turn off the lamps afteronly three minutes. Battery rundown protection will also work if theheadlamps are left on. After having been left on for10 minutes, the headlamps and the parking lamps willflash three t...

2-58 There are also three OnStar buttons located at thebottom of the mirror face. See your dealer for moreinformation on the system and how to subscribe toOnStar. See “OnStar R System” in the Index for more information about the services OnStar provides. Power Outside Mirrors The power mirror contro...

2-59 Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convexmirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from thedriver’s seat. CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like othervehicles) look farther away than they really are.If you cut too sharply into the right lane, youcould h...

2-60 Trunk Convenience Net (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see iton the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind or inside thenet. It can help keep them from falling over during sharpturns or quick starts and stops. The net isn’t for larger, he...

2-61 Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. Youcan also move them from side to side. The visors alsohave extenders that you can pull out for added coverage. Visor Vanity Mirrors Open the cover to expose the vanity mirror. If your vehicle has the lighted vanity mirrors, the lam...

2-63 OnStar R System (If Equipped) OnStar is a vehicle communications system that offers avariety of services and provides a hands - free communication link between you and the OnStar Center.A service subscription agreement and fee are required inorder to receive OnStar service. Services are availab...

2-64 The light will be red in the event of an OnStar systemmalfunction. If this occurs press the OnStar button toattempt to contact an advisor. If the connection is made,the advisor will assist you with steps to take to makesure that the system is functioning properly. If youcannot contact the advis...

2-65 Premium Services (Includes Safety andSecurity Services) D Route Support -- An advisor can provide directions or guidance to anywhere you want to go. In addition,they can help you locate gas stations, rest areas,ATMs, hospitals, hotels, stores, eateries and more. D Concierge Services -- The conc...

2-66 OnStar will not function if the vehicle’s battery isdischarged or disconnected. It may also be inoperative ifthe vehicle is in an accident and the OnStar or vehicleelectrical system components are damaged. Safety and security services are provided by existinggovernmental emergency service provi...

2-67 To activate the express - open feature, press the switch rearward. You can stop the power sunroof before it iscompletely open by pressing the switch forward. Your sunroof also has a vent feature. It can be activatedfrom the closed sunroof position by pressing the switchonce rearward. To close, ...

2-68 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 interferencereceived, including interference that may causeundesired operation. This device complies w...

2-70 Operating the Transmitter Press and hold the appropriate button on theHomeLink R Transmitter. The house symbol comes on while the signal is being transmitted. The effective transmission range of the HomeLinkTransmitter may differ from the hand - held transmitter and from one channel to another....

2-74 Instrument Panel Cluster 3400 V6 Engine Cluster: United States Version Shown, Canadian Similar Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fastyou’re going, about how much fuel is in your tank and many other things you need ...

2-76 Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both milesper hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Yourodometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven ineither miles (used in the United States) or in kilometers(used in Canada). Your vehicle has a tamper - resistan...

2-77 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages thatmay be on your vehicle. The pictures will help youlocate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something iswrong before it becomes serious enough to cause anexpensive repair or replacement. Paying...

2-78 Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrumentpanel, which shows the air bag symbol. The systemchecks 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 sensors, the airbag ...

2-79 Voltmeter Gage (3800 V6 Engine) You can read batteryvoltage on the voltmeter gage. If the gage reads less than 12 volts or more than 16 voltswhile the engine is running, and it stays there, you mayhave a problem with the electrical charging system. Also, when your gage reads less than 11 volts ...

2-80 If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off theroad and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal isharder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor.It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have thevehicle towed for service. See “Anti - Lock Brake System Warni...

2-81 Traction Control System Warning Light The traction controlsystem warning lightmay come on for thefollowing reasons: D If you turn the system off by pressing the TRAC OFF button located on the center console, a chimewill sound and the warning light will come on andstay on. To turn the system bac...

2-83 NOTICE: If you keep driving your vehicle with this lighton, after a while, your emission controls may notwork as well, your fuel economy may not be asgood and your engine may not run as smoothly.This could lead to costly repairs that may not becovered by your warranty. NOTICE: Modifications mad...

2-84 If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage toyour 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 flashi...

2-85 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 yourengine not to run as efficiently as designed. You maynotice this as stalling after start - up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, m...

2-87 NOTICE: Damage to your engine from neglected oilproblems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty. Cruise Light (If Equipped) The CRUISE light comeson whenever you set yourcruise control. See “CruiseControl” in the Index. Fuel Gage United States - 3400 V6 Engine Cluster United States -...

2-88 The fuel gage, when the ignition is on, tells you abouthow much fuel you have left in your tank. The gage will first indicate empty before you are out offuel, and you should get more fuel as soon as possible. Here are three situations you may experience with yourfuel gage. None of these indicat...

2-95 Low Tire Pressure United States Canada The low tire pressure system monitors the inflationpressure of the tires. If one or more of the tires is low, the LOW TIREPRESSURE message in the system’s monitor will bedisplayed and four warning chimes will sound. When you have checked the tire pressures...

2-96 Trunk Open United States Canada This message will appear if the trunk is not completelyclosed and the ignition is in ON. If you are in a forward or reverse gear position you willalso hear four chimes. If this message flashes for one minute after the ignitionis turned on, the trunk release senso...

2-97 Driver Information Center (DIC) (Option) Optional Sunroof Version Shown The DIC will show information about the vehicle andthe surroundings. RESET (Reset Button):D You can reset the AVG ECON, FUEL USED or AVG SPEED trip computer modes by pressing andholding this button for three seconds while y...

2-98 MODE (Mode Button):D Press this button to cycle through three modes of operation -- Off, Compass/Temperature and Trip Computer mode. D In the Trip Computer mode, pressing the MODE button cycles through the five displays. Press theMODE button after the last Trip Computer display toreturn the DIC...

2-99 All the display segments will be illuminated briefly toacknowledge the change in zone number. A chime willsound to confirm that the new zone number has been set. Automatic Compass Calibration The compass is self - calibrating, which eliminates the need to manually set the compass. When the vehi...

2-100 Trip Computer There are five trip computer displays which may bestepped through by pushing the MODE button. The information will appear in the following order:D AVG ECON (Average Fuel Economy): This shows the average fuel economy since the last reset. D INST ECON (Instantaneous Fuel Economy): ...

3- 3-1 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. Besure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. 3 - 2 Comfort Controls 3 - 2 Manual Single Zone Climate Control...

3-2 Comfort Controls Manual Single Zone Climate Control With this system, you can control the heating, coolingand ventilation in your vehicle. The system works best ifyou keep your windows closed while using it. Fan Knob The knob on the left side of the climate control panelregulates the fan speed. ...

3-3 DEFOG: This setting sends half of the air to the floor ducts and half to the defroster and side window outlets. The air conditioning compressor willrun automatically in this setting unless the outsidetemperature is below 40 _F (4_C). The air inlet will also be automatically set to outside air. T...

3-6 Air Conditioning On very hot days, open the windows long enough to lethot, inside air escape. This reduces the time for thevehicle to cool down. Then keep your windows closedfor the air conditioner to work its best. For quick cool - down on very hot days, turn the right knob on the control panel...

3-7 Rear Window Defogger Press the button markedREAR to turn the defoggeron. An indicator on thebutton will light. When turned on, the rear window defogger uses awarming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Ifyour vehicle has the heated outside rearview mirrors, theywill heat to clear the mirror...

3-8 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. Outsideair will also enter the vehicle when the air conditioningfan is running and the OUTSIDE AIR button is pushed. I...

3-9 Audio Systems Your audio system has been designed to operate easilyand give years of listening pleasure. You will get themost enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with itfirst. Find out what your audio system can do and howto operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting themost ou...

3-10 AUTO VOL: Your system has a feature calledSpeed - Compensated Volume (SCV). With SCV, your audio system adjusts automatically to make up for roadand wind noise as you drive. Set the volume at thedesired level. Press AUTO VOL to adjust the SCV.AVOL will appear on the display. Each time you press...

3-11 The AUTO TONE setting stored for that pushbutton willbe automatically chosen. Press P SCAN or one of thepushbuttons again to stop scanning. SCAN will bedisplayed whenever the tuner is in the P SCAN mode.The channel number (P1 - P6) will appear with the frequency. In FM mode, this function will ...

3-12 Adjusting the Speakers BALANCE: Press and release the P - TYPE LIST/AUDIO knob until BAL appears on the display.Turn the knob clockwise to move the sound to the rightspeakers and counterclockwise to move the sound to theleft speakers. The middle position balances the soundbetween the speakers. ...

3-13 RDS is always on. RDS features are only available foruse on FM stations which broadcast RDS information.The RDS features of your radio rely upon receivingspecific RDS information from these stations. Thesefeatures will only work when the RDS information isavailable. In rare cases, a radio stati...

3-14 Traffic Interrupt Feature: Your radio can beprogrammed to interrupt the playback of a cassette tape,CD or FM radio by enabling the traffic interrupt feature.Press the TRAF button once to seek to an RDS stationthat supports the traffic interrupt feature if the currenttuned station does not. The ...

3-15 SEEK TYPE: Press this button to go to a station withthe last selected PTY. TYPE and the last selected PTYwill appear on the display, if it is not already showing.Press SEEK TYPE a second time to seek. If a stationwith the selected PTY is not found, the radio will returnto the original station a...

3-16 If you want to insert a tape when the ignition is off, firstpress EJT or DISP. If CHK TAPE appears on the radio display, the tapewon’t play because of an error. CHK TAPE may be displayed when the tape is tight andthe player can’t turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape.Hold the tape with the open e...

3-21 TREBLE: Press and release the P - TYPE LIST/AUDIO knob until TREB appears on the display. Turn the knobclockwise to increase treble and counterclockwise todecrease treble. The display will show the treble level.When you use this control, the radio’s AUTO TONEsetting will switch to manual. If a ...

3-22 FADE: Press and release the P - TYPE LIST/AUDIO knob until FADE appears on the display. Turn the knobclockwise to move the sound to the front speakers and counterclockwise to move the sound to the rearspeakers. The middle position balances the soundbetween the speakers. The display will show th...

3-24 P - TYPE LIST: Turn this knob clockwise or counterclockwise to select the Program Type (PTY) youwant to listen to. TYPE and a PTY will appear on thedisplay. Press the SEEK TYPE button and the radio will seek to the first RDS broadcaster of the selectedP - TYPE. If the radio cannot find the desi...

3-26 DISP: Press this button to see how long the currenttrack has been playing. ET and the elapsed time willappear on the display. To change what is normallyshown on the display (track or elapsed time), press the button until you see the display you want, then hold the button for two seconds until t...

3-32 SEEK TYPE: Press this button to go to a station withthe last selected PTY. TYPE and the last selected PTYwill appear on the display, if it is not already showing.Press SEEK TYPE a second time to seek. If a stationwith the selected PTY is not found, the radio will returnto the original station a...

3-33 While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE, BAL,TREB, BASS and SEEK controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show TAPE and an arrowshowing which side of the tape is playing. If you want to insert a tape when the ignition is off, first press EJT or DISP. If CHK TAPE appears on t...

3-34 REV (3): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly.Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio willplay the last selected station while the tape reverses. Thestation frequency and REV will appear on the display.You may select stations during REV operation by usingTUNE, SEEK and P S...

3-36 FWD (4): Press and hold this button to advance quicklywithin a track. Press and hold this button for less thantwo seconds to advance at six times the normal playingspeed. Press and hold it for more than two seconds toadvance at 17 times the normal playing speed. Release itto play the passage. T...

3-37 Theft - Deterrent Feature RDS Radios THEFTLOCK R is designed to discourage theft of your radio. The feature works automatically by learning aportion of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). If the radio is moved to a different vehicle, it will notoperate and LOCKED will be displayed. When th...

3-38 SEEK BY TYPE: Press this button to go to a stationwith the last selected PTY TYPE and the last selectedPTY will appear on the display, if it is not alreadyshowing. If a station with the selected PTY is not found,the radio will return to the original station. If both SEEKBY TYPE and TRAF are on,...

3-39 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 yourvehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile telephone or two - way radio -- be sure you c...

3-41 After you clean the player, press and hold the cassette ejectsymbol or EJT button for five seconds to reset the CLEANindicator. The radio will display CLEANED or --- to show the indicator was reset. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the ...

3-42 Because this antenna is built into your rear window,there is a reduced risk of damage caused by car washesand vandals. If you choose to add a cellular telephone to your vehicle,and the antenna needs to be attached to the glass, be surethat you do not damage the grid lines for the AM - FM antenn...

4-2 Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in yourvehicle: Buckle up. See “Safety Belts” in the Index. Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.”On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it ...

4-3 Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving isa national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victimsevery year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle:D JudgmentD Muscular CoordinationD Visi...

4-5 The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcoholin one drink. No amount of coffee or number of coldshowers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t theright answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need totake sudden action, as when a child darts into the street?A person with even a m...

4-9 Remember: Anti - lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decreasestopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle infront of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakesif that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leaveenough room up ahead...

4-11 Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the enginestops or the system is not functioning, you can steer butit 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 m...

4-12 Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effectivethan braking. For example, you come over a hill andfind a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pullsout from nowhere, or a child darts out from betweenparked cars and stops right in front of you. You canavoid th...

4-13 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 thepavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off theaccelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, ...

4-15 Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about whathappens when the three control systems (brakes, steeringand acceleration) don’t have enough friction where thetires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly...

4-16 Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving.D Drive defensively.D Don’t drink and drive.D Adjust your inside re...

4-18 Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wetroad, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well becauseyour tire - to - road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll geteven less traction. It’s always wi...

4-19 Driving too fast through large water puddles or evengoing through some car washes can cause problems, too.The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles.But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them. CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t workas well in a quick sto...

4-20 Driving Through Deep Standing Water NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles orstanding water, water can come in through yourengine’s air intake and badly damage yourengine. Never drive through water that is slightlylower than the underbody of your vehicle. If youcan’t avoid deep p...

4-21 City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is theamount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out forwhat the other drivers are doing and pay attention totraffic signals. Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:D Know the best way to get to where you are going. ...

4-22 Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways,expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safestof all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keepup with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the samespeed ...

4-23 The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, notto your sense of motion. After driving for any distanceat higher speeds, you may tend to think you are goingslower than you actually are. Before Leaving on...

4-24 Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”?Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call ithighway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road withthe same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on theroad, ...

4-26 Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving:D Have your vehicle in good shape for winter.D You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supplyof windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outerclothing, a small shovel, ...

4-27 Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet theroad probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires andthe road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need tobe very careful. Wh...

4-28 If You’re Caught in a Blizzard If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in aserious situation. You should probably stay with yourvehicle unless you know for sure that you are near helpand you can hike through the snow. Here are somethings to do to summon help and keep yourself and yourpas...

4-29 CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle.This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gasto get inside. CO could overcome you and killyou. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might notknow it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow fromaround the base of your vehicle, especially anyth...

4-30 Loading Your Vehicle Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight itmay properly carry. The Tire - Loading Information label is on the inside of the trunk lid. The label tells you theproper size, speed rating and recommended inflationpressures for the tires on your vehicle. It also gives you...

4-31 CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than theGVWR, or either the maximum front or rearGAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle canbreak, and it can change the way your vehiclehandles. These could cause you to lose controland crash. Also, overloading can shorten the lifeof your vehicle. N...

4-32 Towing a Trailer CAUTION: If you don’t use the correct equipment and driveproperly, you can lose control when you pull atrailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, thebrakes may not work well -- or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured.You may also damage your v...

4-33 If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points:D There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sureyour rig will be legal, not only where you live butalso where you’ll be driving. A good source for thisinforma...

4-34 Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an importantweight to measure because it affects the total or grossweight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight(GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, anycargo you may carry in it, and the people who will beriding in ...

4-35 Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment.Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are afew reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here aresome rules to follow:D The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or otherbumper ...

4-38 Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you startdown a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shiftdown, you might have to use your brakes so much thatthey would get hot and no longer work well. On a long uphill grade, shift down and reduce yourspeed to around 45 mph (70...

4-39 When You Are Ready to Leave AfterParking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you:D Start your engine;D Shift into a gear; andD Release the parking brake. 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have som...

5-3 Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to useanother vehicle and some jumper cables to start yourvehicle. But please follow the steps listed to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because:D They contain acid that can burn you. D They contain gas...

5-5 To uncover the remote positive (+) terminal, lift theplastic cap. CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause batterygas to explode. People have been hurt doing this,and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight ifyou need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’tneed to add...

5-6 CAUTION: Fans or other moving engine parts can injure youbadly. Keep your hands away from moving partsonce the engine is running. 5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock.The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the c...

5-8 11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service. Jumper Cable Removal Procedure A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, dothe following: 1. Disconn...

5-10 If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn youbadly, even if you just open the hood. Stay awayfrom the engine if you see or hear steam comingfrom it. Just turn it off and get everyone awayfrom the vehicle until it cools down. Wait untilthere is no sign...

5-11 NOTICE: If your engine catches fire because you keepdriving with no coolant, your vehicle can bebadly damaged. The costly repairs would not becovered by your warranty. See “OverheatedEngine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index. If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get an engine over...

5-12 Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s whatyou’ll see: 3400 V6 Engine A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans 3800 V6 Engine A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans

5-15 How to Add Coolant to the CoolantRecovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant levelisn’t at the COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean,drinkable water and DEX - COOL R engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank. See “Engine Coolant” in theIndex for more information. CAUTI...

5-17 How to Add Coolant to the Radiator NOTICE: Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure.Failure to follow this procedure could cause yourengine to overheat and be severely damaged. The radiator pressure cap is located in the front of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side, near th...

5-22 If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving,especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goesout of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly.But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a fewtips about what to expect and what to do: If a...

5-23 The following steps will tell you how to use the jack andchange a tire. Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll needis in the trunk. Turn the center nut on the compact spare covercounterclockwise to remove it. Then remove the cover.

5-25 The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) extensionand protector/guide (B) and wheel wrench (C). If there is a wheel cover, loosen the plastic nut caps withthe wheel wrench. They won’t come off. Then, using theflat end of the wheel wrench, pry along the edge of thecover until it comes off....

5-26 CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up isdangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, youcould be badly injured or killed. Never get undera vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperlypositioned can damage the vehicle and ev...

5-30 NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead tobrake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoidexpensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheelnuts in the proper sequence and to the propertorque specification. Don’t try to put the wheel cover on your compactspare tire. It won’t fit. Store the wh...

5-31 When storing a full - size tire, you must use the extension to help avoid wheel surface damage. Use the extensionand protector/guide located in the foam holder. To storea full - size tire, place the tire in the trunk valve stem facing down with the protector/guide through a wheelbolt hole. Remo...

5-32 A. Retainer B. Cover C. Compact Spare Tire D. Nut E. Jack F. Wrench G. Lock Nut Tool H. Foam Holder I. Extension and Protective Guide J. Bolt Screw Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time.Check the inflation p...

5-33 NOTICE: When the compact spare is installed, don’t takeyour vehicle through an automatic car wash withguide rails. The compact spare can get caught onthe rails. That can damage the tire and wheel,and maybe other parts of your vehicle. Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles. And don’t mi...

5-34 NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of yourvehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheelstoo fast while shifting your transaxle back andforth, you can destroy your transaxle. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle,see “Tire Chains” in the Index. Rocking Your Ve...

6-2 Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you tobe happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer forall your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts andGM - trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM.Genuine GM parts have one of thes...

6-3 CAUTION: You can be injured and your vehicle could bedamaged if you try to do service work on avehicle without knowing enough about it.D Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement partsand tools before you attempt any vehiclemaintenance task. D Be sure to use the p...

6-7 NOTICE: If you need a new cap, be sure to get the righttype. Your dealer can get one for you. If you getthe wrong type, it may not fit properly. This maycause your malfunction indicator lamp to lightand your fuel tank and emissions system may bedamaged. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” inthe Ind...

6-8 Checking Things Under the Hood CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up andinjure you even when the engine is not running.Keep hands, clothing and tools away from anyunderhood electric fan. CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts andstart a fire. These include liquids l...

6-9 Hood Release To open the hood, first pullthe handle located inside thevehicle near the parkingbrake pedal. Then go to the front of the vehicle and release thesecondary hood release. Lift the hood.

6-10 Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 3400 V6 (Code E) engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir B. Underhood Fuse BlockC. Radiator Pressure Cap D. Engine Coolant ReservoirE. Power Steering Fluid ReservoirF. Engine Oil Fill CapG. Engine Oil Dipstick H. Transax...

6-12 Engine Oil United States Canada If the LOW ENG OIL LEVEL message appears on the instrument panel, it means you need to check yourengine oil level right away. For more information, see “Low Oil Level Message” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this isan added reminde...

6-13 Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes todrain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstickmight not show the actual level. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel orcloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again,keeping the tip down, and check the...

6-14 3400 (Code E) V6 Engine 3800 (Code K) V6 Engine The engine oil fill cap is located toward the front of theengine near the yellow - looped engine oil dipstick handle. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in theIndex for more information on location. Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewh...

6-17 NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American PetroleumInstitute Certified For Gasoline Enginesstarburst symbol. Failure to use therecommended oil can result in engine damage notcovered by your warranty. GM Goodwrench R oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. If you are in an area wher...

6-19 What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certainelements that may be unhealthy for your skin and couldeven cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skinfor very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap andwater, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throwaway...

6-22 Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluidlevel is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one ormore of these conditions:D In heavy city tra...

6-23 Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxlefluid level if you have been driving:D When outside temperatures are above 90_F (32_C).D At high speed for quite a while.D In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. D While pulling a trailer.To get the right reading, the fluid should be...

6-25 How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine whatkind of transaxle fluid to use. See “RecommendedFluids and Lubricants” in the Index. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the properfluid to bring the level into the cross - hatched area on the dipstick. 1. Pull out th...

6-26 A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water andDEX - COOL R coolant will: D Give freezing protection down to - 34 _F ( - 37 _C). D Give boiling protection up to 265_F (129_C).D Protect against rust and corrosion.D Help keep the proper engine temperature.D Let the warning lights and gages work as ...

6-27 NOTICE: If you use an improper coolant mixture, yourengine could overheat and be badly damaged.The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by yourwarranty. Too much water in the mixture canfreeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four time...

6-28 United States Canada If this LOW COOLANT LEVEL message comes on andstays on, it means you’re low on engine coolant. Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX - COOL R coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but becareful not to spill it. If the coolant recovery tank is c...

6-29 Radiator Pressure Cap The radiator pressure cap is located in the front of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side, near the diagonal cross brace. See “EngineCompartment Overview” in the Index for moreinformation on location. NOTICE: Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa)pressure - type...

6-30 When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluidunless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hearan unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicatea problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. How to Check Power Steering Fl...

6-32 Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver’sside of the engine compartment. See “EngineCompartment Overview” in the Index. It is filled withDOT - 3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level inthe reservoir might go down. The first is that th...

6-33 CAUTION: If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill onthe engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brakefluid only when work is done on the brakehydraulic system. When your brake fluid falls to a low level...

6-34 NOTICE: D Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a fewdrops of mineral - based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brakesystem parts so badly that they’ll have to bereplaced. Don’t let someone put in thewrong kind of fluid. D If you spi...

6-35 Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brakesqueal when the brakes are first applied or lightlyapplied. This does not mean something is wrong withyour brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to helpprevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspectbrake pads for wear an...

6-36 Battery Your new vehicle comes with a maintenance freeACDelco R battery. When it’s time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on theoriginal battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelcobattery. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in theIndex for battery location. WARNING: B...

6-37 Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulb, see“Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. For any bulbchanging procedure not listed in this section, contact theservice department of your dealer. Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside andcan burst if you drop or sc...

6-38 To remove the headlamps do the following: 1. Open the hood. 2. Remove the air baffle. 3. Remove the two headlamp fasteners by pulling up on them. 4. Gently pull the headlamp assembly away from the vehicle and remove the electrical connector. 5. Remove the round dust caps to gain access to the b...

6-41 4. While holding the wiper arm away from the glass, push the release clip from under the bladeconnecting point and pull the blade assembly downtoward the glass to remove it from the wiper arm. 5. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm until you hear the release clip “click” into pla...

6-42 Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire - Loading Information label, which is on the inside of the trunk lid, shows the correct inflationpressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold”means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km). NOTICE: Don...

6-43 Tire Inflation Monitor System The tire inflation monitor system can alert you to a largechange in the pressure of one tire. The system “learns”the pressure at each tire throughout the operating speedrange of your vehicle. The system normally takesbetween 45 and 90 minutes of driving to learn th...

6-44 To reset (calibrate) the system: The tire inflationmonitor system can be reset by turning the exterior lampcontrol from OFF to parking lamps three times while theignition is in ON. It can also be reset through the RDS radio using the following steps: 1. Turn the ignition to ACC or ON and turn t...

6-45 When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotationpattern shown here. Don’t include the compact spare tire in your tire rotation. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front andrear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire - Loading Information label. Reset the tire inflation mon...

6-46 When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’stime for new tires is tocheck the treadwearindicators, which willappear when your tires haveonly 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) orless of tread remaining. You need a new tire if any of the following statementsare true:D You can see the indicators at thr...

6-47 CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control whiledriving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types(radial and bias - belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash.Using tires of different sizes may also causedamage to your vehicle. Be sure to use t...

6-48 Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based onthe wear rate of the tire when tested under controlledconditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The...

6-49 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balancedcarefully at the factory to give you the longest tire lifeand best overall performance. Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are notneeded. However, if you notice unusual tire wear oryour vehicle pulli...

6-50 Used Replacement Wheels CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle isdangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used orhow far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenlyand cause an accident. If you have to replace awheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel. Tire Chains NOTICE: Use tire chains...

6-51 Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Someare toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike amatch or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some aredangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space.When you use anything from a container to clean yourvehicle, be ...

6-52 Here are some cleaning tips:D Always read the instructions on the cleaner label.D Clean up stains as soon as you can -- before they set. D Carefully scrape off any excess stain.D Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stainsare stubborn. D If ...

6-53 Cleaning Vinyl Use warm water and a clean cloth.D Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do it more than once. D Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if you don’t get them off quickly. Use a clean clothand a vinyl/leather cleaner. See your dealer for this pr...

6-54 Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove normaltobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index. Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they maycause scratches. ...

6-56 Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weatherand chemical fallout that can take their toll over a periodof years. You can help to keep the paint finish lookingnew by keeping your vehicle garaged or coveredwhenever possible. Cleaning Aluminum Wheels (If Equipped) Keep your wheels clean...

6-57 Finish Damage Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finishshould be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrodequickly and may develop into a major repair expense. Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch - up materials available from your dealer or other serviceoutle...

6-58 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials PART NUMBER SIZE DESCRIPTION USAGE 994954 23 in. x 25 in. Polishing Cloth – Wax Treated Exterior polishing cloth 1050172 16 oz. (0.473 L) Tar and Road Oil Remover Removes tar, road oil and asphalt 1050173 16 oz. (0.473 L) Chrome Cleaner and Polish Use on chr...

6-59 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears ona plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on thedriver’s side. You can see it if you look through thewindshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN alsoappears on the Vehicle Certification ...

6-60 Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicleunless you check with your dealer first. Someelectrical equipment can damage your vehicleand the damage wouldn’t be covered by yourwarranty. Some add - on electrical equipment can keep other compo...

6-61 Driver’s Side Instrument Panel Fuse Block Some fuses are in a fuseblock on the driver’s side of the instrument panel. Pull off the cover labeledFUSES to expose the fuses. Additional fuses are in the underhood electrical centeron the passenger’s side of the engine compartment. Circuit Relay Desc...

6-63 Passenger’s Side Instrument Panel Fuse Block Some fuses are in a fuseblock on the passenger’sside of the instrument panel.Pull off the cover labeledFUSES to expose the fuses. Additional fuses are in the underhood electrical centeron the passenger’s side of the engine compartment. Circuit Relay ...

6-68 Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamps Bulb Number Back - Up 921 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Front Park/Turn Signal 3357NAK or 3457NAK . . . . Headlamp, High - Beam 9005 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Headlamp, Low - Beam 9006 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....

6-69 3800 (L36) V6 Engine Type V6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . VIN Code K . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Displacement 231 CID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Compression Ratio 9.4:1 . . . . . . . . . . . . ...

7-2 Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plansupplements your new vehicle warranties. See yourWarranty and Owner Assistance booklet or your dealer for details. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep yourvehicle in good working condit...

7-3 How This Section is Organized This maintenance schedule is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” showswhat to have done and how often. Some of theseservices can be complex, so unless you are technicallyqualified and have the necessary equipment, you shouldlet your dea...

7-4 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep yourvehicle in good working condition. But we don’t knowexactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very shortdistances only a few times a week. Or you may drivelong distances all the...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-5 The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles(166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles(166 000 km) at the same intervals. The services shownat 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed atthe same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km). See “Owne...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-6 Engine Oil Scheduled Maintenance Change engine oil and filter as indicated by the GMOil Life System t (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). Reset the system. The system will showyou when to change the oil -- usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and 10,000 miles (1...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-9 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote @.) (See footnote +.) 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) j Inspect engine air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty condi...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-10 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) j If Equipped: Replace passenger compartment air filter. If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, the filter may require replacement more often. j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and a...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-11 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90 _F (32_C) or higher. – In hilly or mountainous terrain.–...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-12 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) j If Equipped: Replace passenger compartment air filter. If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, the filter may require replacement more often. j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and ...

Scheduled Maintenance 7-14 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) j Inspect spark plug wires. An Emission Control Service. j Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traf...

7-15 Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed in this part are owner checks and services whichshould be performed at the intervals specified to helpensure the safety, dependability and emission controlperformance of your vehicle. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.Whenever any fluid...

7-17 Starter Switch Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle couldmove suddenly. If it does, you or others could beinjured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake. See...

7-18 Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turnthe ignition key to OFF in each shift lever position.D The key should turn to OFF only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). D The key should come out only in OFF. Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P...

7-19 Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed in this part are inspections and services whichshould be performed at least twice a year (for instance,each spring and fall). You should let your dealer’sservice department or other qualified service center dothese jobs. Make sure any necessary re...

7-23 Maintenance Record DATE ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED

8-2 Customer Satisfaction Procedure Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to yourdealer and to Chevrolet. Normally, any concerns withthe sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or servicedepartments. Sometimes, however, despite the bestintent...

8-4 The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court programadministered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus to settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle repairs orthe interpretation of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.Although you may be required to resort to this informaldispute resolution pr...

8-5 From:Puerto Rico: 1-800-496-9992 (English)1-800-496-9993 (Spanish) U.S. Virgin Islands: 1-800-496-9994 Fax Number: 313-381-0022 Canada General Motors of Canada LimitedCustomer Communication Centre, 163-0051908 Colonel Sam DriveOshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 1-800-263-3777 (English)1-800-263-7854 (Frenc...

8-6 Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Program To enhance Chevrolet’s strong commitment to customersatisfaction, Chevrolet is excited to announce theestablishment of the Chevrolet Roadside AssistanceCenter. As the owner of a 2001 Chevrolet, membershipin Roadside Assistance is free. Roadside Assistance is...

8-7 Chevrolet offers Courtesy Transportation for customersneeding warranty service. Courtesy Transportation willbe offered in conjunction with the coverage provided bythe Bumper - to - Bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty to eligible purchasers of 2001 Chevrolet passenger carsand light duty trucks. (...

8-8 Courtesy Transportation Chevrolet has always exemplified quality and value in its offering of motor vehicles. To enhance yourownership experience, we and our participating dealersare proud to offer Courtesy Transportation, a customersupport program for new vehicles. The Courtesy Transportation p...

8-9 Courtesy Rental Vehicle When your vehicle is unavailable due to overnightwarranty repairs, your dealer may arrange to provideyou with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of $30.00 per day supported by receipts.This require...

8-10 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITEDSTATES GOVERNMENT If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which couldcause a crash or could cause injury or death, you shouldimmediately inform the National Highway TrafficSafety Administration (NHTSA), in addition tonotifying General Motors. If NHTSA...

8-11 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTSTO GENERAL MOTORS In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada)in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notifyus. Please call us at 1 - 800 - 222 - 1020, or write: Chevrolet Motor DivisionChevrolet Customer Assistance CenterP.O. Box 33170Detroit, MI 4823...

8-12 2001 CHEVROLET SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order, or credit card information to ...