1999 Chevrolet Cavalier Owners Manual

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

NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.

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

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.

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NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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Starting Your 2.4 Liter L4 Engine 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine warms up.

NOTICE:

Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.

2.

If the engine doesn’t start right away, and if the weather is very cold (below -20_ F or -29_ C), push the accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down while you turn the key to START. Do this until the engine starts. As soon as it does, let go of the key.

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Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

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2.2L L4 Engine

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

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for a maximum of 15 seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. If the engine still won’t start or starts briefly but then stops again, repeat step 1 or 2, depending on temperature. When the engine starts, release the key and the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. On

vehicles with a 2.2L L4 engine, the electrical cord is located near the engine oil dipstick. On vehicles with a 2.4L L4 engine, the electrical cord is located in front of the engine coolant surge tank on the passenger’s side.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

CAUTION:

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

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2.4L L4 Engine

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

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4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and

store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

Automatic Transaxle Operation Your vehicle may be equipped with a three-speed automatic transaxle or a four-speed automatic transaxle. The shift lever is located on the console between the seats. There are six different positions for the shift lever on the three-speed automatic and seven positions for the four-speed automatic transaxles. While PARK (P), REVERSE (R) and NEUTRAL (N) operate identically for both transaxles, the forward gear positions represent different gearing and operation. See “Forward Gears (3-Speed)” or “Forward-Gears (4-Speed)” later in this section.

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Three-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Four-Speed Automatic Transaxle

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

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CAUTION:

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

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Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and also release the shift lever button on floor shift console models as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

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

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. Note that a 3-speed transaxle cannot be towed with all four wheels on the ground.

CAUTION:

Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

NOTICE:

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

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

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Forward Gears (3-Speed) DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

NOTICE:

Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (90 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use DRIVE (D) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your engine.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE:

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

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NOTICE:

Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (90 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) or THIRD (3) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your engine.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

Forward Gears (4-Speed) AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving with the four-speed automatic transaxle. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: D Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your

accelerator pedal about halfway down.

D Going about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your

accelerator all the way down.

THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): D When driving on hilly, winding roads. D When going down a steep hill. SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

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Manual Transaxle Operation 5-Speed

NOTICE:

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

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SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up on the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5), the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL (N). NEUTRAL (N): Use this position when you start or idle your engine.

This is your shift pattern.

Here’s how to operate your transaxle: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST (1), put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1).

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Up-Shift Light (Manual Transaxle)

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If you have a manual transaxle, you have a SHIFT light. This light will show you when to shift to the next higher gear for the best fuel economy.

When this light comes on, you can shift to the next higher gear if weather, road and traffic conditions let you. For the best fuel economy, accelerate slowly and shift when the light comes on. While you accelerate, it is normal for the light to go on and off if you quickly change the position of the accelerator. Ignore the SHIFT light when you downshift.

REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal.

NOTICE:

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

Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake, for parking your vehicle. Shift Speeds

CAUTION:

If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. You could injure yourself or others. Don’t shift down more than one gear at a time when you down shift.

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Parking Brake

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To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can press the release button. Hold the release button in as you move the brake lever all the way down.

NOTICE:

Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.

The parking brake lever is located between the bucket seats. To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down and pull up on the parking brake lever. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.

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Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only)

CAUTION:

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

1. Hold the brake pedal down and set the

parking brake.

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

like this: D Hold in the button on the lever D Push the lever all the way toward the front of

your vehicle.

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

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

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Only)

CAUTION:

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

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into PARK (P), hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pushing the button. If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

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Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only)

CAUTION:

Before shifting out of PARK (P) you must fully apply your regular brakes. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index.

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P), as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear

you want.

5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can. Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transaxle Models Only) Before you get out of your vehicle, put your manual transaxle in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the parking brake.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

Engine Exhaust

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CAUTION:

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: D Your exhaust system sounds strange

or different.

D Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. D Your vehicle was damaged in a collision. D Your vehicle was damaged when driving

over high points on the road or over road debris.

D Repairs weren’t done correctly. D Your vehicle or exhaust system had been

modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle: D Drive it only with all the windows down to

blow out any CO; and

D Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

CAUTION:

Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.

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Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transaxle) It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

CAUTION:

Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

CAUTION:

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

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

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Windows Manual Windows On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (If Equipped)

With power windows, switches on the center console control each of the windows when the ignition is on. In addition, on four-door models, each rear passenger door has a control switch for its own window.

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To lower the window, press and hold the rear of the switch. To raise the window, press and hold the switch forward.

Express Down Window The driver’s window switch has an auto-down feature. The driver’s window can be opened to the desired amount by pushing the rear of the switch to the first detent. For the auto-down feature, push the rear of the switch all the way down. The window will continue going down until fully opened. To stop the window while it is lowering, briefly press the switch forward, then release.

Lockout Switch Four-door models also have a lockout switch. Press the lockout switch to disable the rear passenger’s power window switches. This will prevent rear passengers from opening and closing the windows. The driver can still control all windows with the switch in the lock position. Press the lockout switch again to enable the passenger’s window switches. Horn You can sound the horn by pressing the center of your steering wheel near the horn symbols.

Tilt Wheel (If Equipped)

Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever

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A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: D Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator D Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer D Flash-to-Pass D Cruise Control (If Equipped)

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Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to 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 automatically.

An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high beam to low, pull the turn signal lever all the way toward you. Then release it.

When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel will also be on.

Flash-to-Pass This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to signal a driver in front of you that you want to pass. To use it, pull the turn signal/multifunction lever toward you until the high-beam headlamps come on, then release the lever to turn them off.

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it. As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows flash rapidly, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs. 2-36

Windshield Wipers

You control the windshield wipers by moving the stalk with the windshield wiper symbol on it up or down. For a single wiper cycle, push the stalk down to MIST, then release it. The wipers will stop after one cycle. For more cycles, hold the wiper stalk down longer.

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For steady wiping at low speed, move the wiper stalk up to the (1). For high-speed wiping, move the stalk up to (2). To stop the wipers, move the stalk to OFF. If your vehicle is equipped with variable delay, you can set the wiper speed for a long or short interval between wipes. This can be very useful. Move the stalk to DELAY, then turn the inner band and choose the delay you want. Turn the inner band up for a shorter interval between wiper cycles. Turn the band down for a longer interval between wiper cycles. If your vehicle is equipped with fixed delay, you can use this function by moving the stalk to DELAY. Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.

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Cruise Control (If Equipped)

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With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, or the clutch pedal if you have a manual transaxle, the cruise control shuts off.

Windshield Washer To wash your windshield, pull the stalk with the wiper symbol on it toward you one time. When you release the stalk, the washers will stop. The wipers continue wiping for approximately three cycles and will either stop or will resume the speed you were using before.

CAUTION:

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

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CAUTION:

D Cruise control can be dangerous where you

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

D Cruise control can be dangerous on

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

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

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Setting Cruise Control

CAUTION:

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

1. Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Push the SET button at the end of the lever and

release it.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

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Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: D Push in the button at the end of the lever until you

reach the lower speed you want, then release it.

D To slow down in very small amounts, briefly press the button. Each time you do this, you’ll go about 1
mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

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

Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake or clutch pedal. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can briefly move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A. You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. If you briefly hold the switch at R/A longer, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake or clutch pedal. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at R/A.

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: D Use the accelerator pedal to get to a higher speed. Push the SET button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.

D Move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A.

Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A then release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.

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

Ending Cruise Control There are several ways to turn off the cruise control: D step lightly on the brake pedal, or push the clutch

pedal, if you have a manual transaxle, or

D move the cruise switch to OFF.

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

Exterior Lamps

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The band on the turn signal/multifunction lever controls your vehicle’s lamps.

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Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will make your high-beam headlamps come on at reduced brightness in daylight when: D the ignition is on with the engine running, D the headlamp switch is OFF, D the parking brake is released and D the transaxle is not in PARK (P) on models with an

automatic transaxle only.

This indicator light on your instrument panel will come on when the DRL are on.

Parking Lamps

This position will turn on the following:

D Parking Lamps D Sidemarker Lamps D Taillamps D Instrument Panel Lights Headlamps

This position will turn on the following:

D Headlamps D Parking Lamps D Sidemarker Lamps D Taillamps D Instrument Panel Lights Turn the band rearward to turn the lamps off. Lamps On Reminder If you open the driver’s door with the ignition off and the lamps on, you will hear a warning chime.

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A flashing DRL telltale indicates a possible burned out headlamp, or that the vehicle may need service to repair a stuck DRL relay. When the DRL are on, only your high-beam headlamps will be on at reduced brightness. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t be lit up either. When you turn on the headlamp switch, your high-beam headlamps will go out, and your headlamps will come on. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When you turn off the headlamp switch, the regular lamps will go off, and your high-beam headlamps will come on at reduced brightness. To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, set the parking brake. The DRL will stay off until you release the parking brake. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.

Fog Lamps (If Equipped)

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Use your fog lamps for better vision in foggy or misty conditions. The switch for your fog lamps is next to the instrument panel intensity control. Push the top of the switch to turn the fog lamps on. Push the bottom of the switch to turn the fog lamps off. When using fog lamps, the parking lamps or low-beam headlamps must be on.

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Fog lamps will go off whenever the high-beam headlamps come on. When the high beams go off, the fog lamps will come on again. Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control

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Illuminated Entry When you open either front door, or open a rear door, the lamps inside your vehicle will go on. These lamps will fade off after about 40 seconds, or when the ignition is turned on after all the doors have been closed. If the ignition has been off for less than two minutes, the lamps inside your vehicle will stay on for about 15 seconds to provide an illuminated exit when you remove the key from the ignition. After you exit the vehicle and all of the doors have been closed, the lamps will stay on for an additional four seconds before fading off. These lamps will also go on when you press the LOCK or UNLOCK button on the keyless entry transmitter (if equipped).

You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by turning the dial up or down. Turn the dial up all the way to turn on the interior courtesy lamps.

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Front Reading Lamps (If Equipped)

These lamps are located on the rearview mirror. Turn each one on and off by pressing its switch. Map Lamps (If Equipped) These lamps are located forward of the dome lamp. To turn the lamps on, press the switch. Press the switch again to turn them off.

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Battery Saver Your vehicle is equipped with a battery saver feature designed to protect your vehicle’s battery. When any interior lamp (trunk, reading, dome, glove box, etc.) is left on and the ignition is turned off, the battery rundown protection system will automatically turn the lamp off after 20 minutes. This will avoid draining the battery. This system does not protect against leaving on the headlamps or parking lamps. To reactivate the interior lamps, either: D the ignition must be turned on, D the activated lamp switch must be turned off, then

on, or

D a front door must be opened. The battery rundown protection feature will also be activated when any door is left open.

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Mirrors Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror To reduce glare from lamps behind you, move the lever toward you to the night position. Manual Remote Control Mirror

The outside rearview mirror should be adjusted so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position.

Adjust the driver’s side outside mirror with the control lever on the driver’s door. To adjust your passenger’s side mirror, sit in the driver’s seat and have a passenger adjust the mirror for you. The mirror is a spring-loaded breakaway design.

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Power Remote Control Mirrors (If Equipped)

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The mirror control is located on the driver’s door. Rotate the control clockwise or counterclockwise to choose the mirror you want to adjust.

Then move the control in the direction you want the mirror to move. Adjust each mirror so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. The mirror is a spring-loaded breakaway design. Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.

CAUTION:

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

Storage Compartments Center Console Storage Area To open the center console, pull the lift lever up and the lid back. To close the center console, push the lid down until it clicks. Center Console Cupholders Open the center console lid all the way to uncover the front and rear cupholders. There is also a cupholder at the front of the console.

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Convenience Net (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it just inside the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops. Unclip a corner of the convenience net to fit larger objects behind the net, then re-clip it to secure them in place. The net isn’t for larger, heavier loads. Store them in the trunk as far forward as you can. You can unhook the net so that it will lie flat when you’re not using it. Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter (If Equipped) To use the lighter, just push it in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back out by itself.

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Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them to the side. Accessory Power Outlet (If Equipped) The accessory power outlet is located on the instrument panel to the right of the steering wheel. Just remove the plug from the outlet and follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical equipment you install. These circuits are protected by a fuse and have maximum current levels.

NOTICE:

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

To clean the center console ashtray, remove the entire ashtray and empty it. To clean the rear ashtray, open it, push down on the snuffer, and pull it out.

NOTICE:

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

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Sunroof (If Equipped)

Press and release the rear of the switch and the glass panel will open to the vent position.

Open the sunshade by hand when using the vent position. Press and release the rear of the switch again to open the glass panel and the sunshade. Press the front of the switch to stop the panel in any position. Press and hold the front of the switch to close the glass panel. The sunshade can only be closed by hand. The sunroof glass panel cannot be opened or closed if your vehicle has an electrical failure.

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

NOTICE:

D Remove any items from the convertible top storage area before you lower the top. Even small items in the storage area can damage the top or other parts of the system. D Don’t raise or lower the convertible top when the temperature is below 20_F (-7_C). The cold can cause cracks and other damage to the top as it is being lowered or raised.

D Don’t raise or lower the convertible top

while the vehicle is moving. The wind could damage the top. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop before attempting to raise or lower the top. Always make sure that the top is securely latched before driving the vehicle.

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5. Pull the latch handle rearward away from the

windshield and hold it until the convertible top is fully lowered.

Lowering Your Convertible Top 1. Set the parking brake and shift your automatic

transaxle to PARK (P) or your manual transaxle to NEUTRAL (N).

2. Turn the ignition to RUN. 3. Lower the side door windows completely to avoid

wear to the weatherstrips.

4. Push the button in the latch handle and turn the

handle down to unhook the latch pins from the holes over the windshield.

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Installing the Boot

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6. Rotate the latch handle up to the locked position.

1. From inside the vehicle, pull the tab on the rear seat to fold down the seat. See “Fold-Down Rear Seat” in the Index.

2. Open the trunk and remove both boot side covers.

Leave the trunk open.

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3. Install the boot side cover by inserting the tab (A) on the underside of the cover into the slot (B) at the top of the quarter trim panel. Place the rear flap of the boot side cover in the trunk lid opening, aligning the eyelet (C) over the boot snap ball stud (D).

4. Attach the two snaps on the inside flap of the side

cover to the top of the quarter trim panel. Attach the front snap (E) first and then the rear snap (F). The rear snap is adjustable for ease of installation.

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5. Pull the boot center cover from behind the rear

seatback and place it over the inner sides of the boot side covers and the lowered top.

6. Go to the rear of the vehicle. Place the boot center

cover along the trunk lid opening. Align one snap on the corner of the boot to the ball stud and push forward. Repeat for other snap.

7. Close the trunk lid. 8. Raise the rear seatback to the up position. Push the

seat back to make sure it is latched.

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Removing the Boot 1. Set the parking brake and shift your automatic

transaxle to PARK (P) or your manual transaxle to NEUTRAL (N).

2. Open the trunk and leave it open.

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4. Go to the rear of the vehicle. Pull the snap knobs

rearward to disengage the rear center cover. Carefully tuck the center boot behind the rear seatback. Make sure that the center cover is not covering the rear seatback latch. Tuck the end of the center boot rearward to keep it away from the rear seatback hinge.

3. From inside the vehicle, fold down the rear seatback.

See “Fold-Down Rear Seat” in the Index.

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5. Unsnap both boot side cover snaps (E and F) from

the side of the quarter trim panel.

6. Lift the side cover eyelet (C) at the rear of the side

boot cover from the snap ball stud (D). Raise the back of the boot side cover to unhook the tab (A) from the slot (B) in the quarter trim panel. Do the same on the other side.

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4. Push the button in the latch handle and rotate the

handle down.

5. Push the handle forward toward the windshield and hold it until the convertible top is fully raised, and the latch pins are all the way in the holes above the windshield.

7. Store both boot side covers in the trunk. 8. Close the trunk. 9. Raise the rear seatback to the up position. Push the seat back to make sure it is latched. Ensure that the rear seatbelts do not become trapped behind the rear seats.

Raising the Convertible Top 1. Set the parking brake and shift your automatic

transaxle to PARK (P) or your manual transaxle to NEUTRAL (N).

2. Turn the ignition to RUN. 3. Lower the door windows completely to avoid wear

to the weatherstrips.

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Lowering the Top Manually

NOTICE:

Do not attempt to lower the top manually as damage to the vehicle will occur. If the top fails to raise or lower completely, see “Raising the Top Manually” following.

Raising the Top Manually If your vehicle loses power, or something else happens that prevents you from raising the top electrically, you may need to raise the top manually. This will allow you to safely drive the vehicle until you can get the top repaired. Raising the convertible top manually should only be done in an emergency and requires two people. Before you do these steps, check to make sure that the bypass switch in the trunk is switched up to the NORMAL OPERATION position. If it is not, switch it to the NORMAL OPERATION position and see if the power top works.

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6. Turn the latch handle up to lock the top. Be sure the

top is securely latched on both sides.

1. Set the parking brake and shift your automatic

transaxle to PARK (P) or your manual transaxle to NEUTRAL (N). Turn the engine off.

4. Press the bypass switch down to the EMERGENCY

OVERRIDE position. The switch is located under the shelf panel on the driver’s side in the trunk.

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2. Push the button in the latch handle and rotate the

handle down.

3. Open the trunk.

5. Remove the top boot as described in Steps 1 through

9 in “Removing the Boot” earlier in this section.

6. Lower the door windows completely. If the power

windows do not work, leave the doors open.

7. Position one person on each side of the vehicle.

Carefully lift the top by grasping the front corners of the top, not the linkage.

NOTICE:

Do not attempt to force the top up if it does not move freely. The top or its linkage can be damaged. Make sure both sides are being lifted together to avoid twisting. See your dealer if you still can’t move the top easily.

Convertible Bypass Switch

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8. Raise the top until it is all the way up. Line up the

top so the pins are even with the holes.

9. Pull down on the top and rotate the latch handle up

to lock the convertible top. Be sure the top is latched securely on both sides.

10. Press the bypass switch up to the NORMAL

OPERATION position.

11. Close the trunk.

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The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System

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The main components of your instrument panel are: A. Instrument Panel Intensity Control B. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever C. Hazard Warning Flashers Switch D. Ignition Switch E. Windshield Wiper/Washer Controls F. Cigarette Lighter/Accessory Power Outlet G. Audio System

H. Climate Controls and Rear Window Defogger I. Shift Lever J. Parking Brake Lever K. Tilt Steering Wheel Lever (If Equipped) L. Hood Release Lever M. Fuse Panel

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Instrument Panel Clusters 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, about how much fuel is left in the tank, and many other things you’ll need to drive safely and economically.

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Standard Cluster

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Optional Cluster

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Tachometer (If Equipped)

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

NOTICE:

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

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 the new one can be set to the mileage total of the old odometer, then it must be. But if it can’t, then it’s set at zero and a label must be put on the driver’s door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed.

Trip Odometer (If Equipped) The trip odometer can tell you how far your vehicle has been driven since you last reset the trip odometer to zero. The trip odometer reset button is located next to the odometer. By pressing the reset button, you can alternate between the season odometer and the trip odometer. To reset the trip odometer, press and hold the reset button for one to two seconds.

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

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

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

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Charging System Light

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

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

Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. 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 sensor, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” in the Index.

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

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to 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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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.

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

This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to 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.)

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Enhanced Traction System Warning Light (If Equipped)

With the Enhanced Traction System (ETS), this warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine.

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

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

If the light stays on, turn the ignition to OFF. Or, if the light comes on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your vehicle needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there’s a problem with your regular brakes. See “Brake System Warning Light” earlier in this section. The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to 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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The Enhanced Traction System warning light may come on for the following reasons: D If you turn the system off by moving the shift lever

to FIRST (1) or SECOND (2), the warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the system back on, move the shift lever back to a position other than FIRST (1) or SECOND (2). The warning light should go off. (See “Enhanced Traction System” in the Index for more information.)

D The warning light will come on when you set your parking brake with the engine running, and it will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If the transaxle shift lever is in any position other than FIRST (1) or SECOND (2) and the warning light stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means there’s a problem with the system.

D If the traction control system is affected by an

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

If the Enhanced Traction System warning light comes on and stays on for an extended period of time when the transaxle shift lever is in any position other than FIRST (1) or SECOND (2) your vehicle needs service.

Enhanced Traction System Active Light

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When your Enhanced Traction System is limiting wheel spin, this light will come on.

Slippery road conditions may exist if the Enhanced Traction System active light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few seconds after the Enhanced Traction System stops limiting wheel spin. The Enhanced Traction System active 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 system is active.

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Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

Low Coolant Warning Light

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If this light comes on and stays on, your system is low on coolant and the engine may overheat.

See “Engine Coolant” in the Index and have your vehicle serviced as soon as you can. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light)

Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems.

Standard Cluster

Optional Cluster

Your vehicle is equipped with one of these gages. With the ignition in RUN, this gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is too hot! It means that your engine coolant has overheated. 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. In “Problems on the Road,” this manual shows what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

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NOTICE:

Modifications made to the engine, transaxle, exhaust or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls and may cause the 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 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 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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

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

Oil Pressure Light

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If you have a low engine oil pressure problem, this light will stay on after you start your engine, or come on when you are driving. This indicates that your engine is not receiving enough oil.

The engine could be low on oil, or could have some other oil problem. Have it fixed immediately. The oil light could also come on in three other situations: D When the ignition is on but the engine is not running,

the light will come on as a test to show you it is working, but the light will go out when you turn the ignition to START. If it doesn’t come on with the ignition on, you may have a problem with the fuse or bulb. Have it fixed right away.

D If you’re idling at a stop sign, the light may blink on

and then off.

D If you make a hard stop, the light may come on for a

moment. This is normal.

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PasslockR Warning Light

This light will come on briefly when you turn the key toward START.

If the light flashes, the Passlock system has entered a tamper mode. If the vehicle fails to start, see “Passlock” in the Index. If the light comes on continuously while driving and stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock system. Your vehicle will not be protected by Passlock, and you should see your dealer. Up-Shift Light (Manual Transaxle)

This light comes on when you need to shift to the next higher gear. See “Manual Transaxle” 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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Check Gages Light

This light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine.

If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your various gages to see if they are in the warning zones or if you are low on fuel. Fuel Gage

When the ignition is on, your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left.

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When the indicator nears E (empty), you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon. Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem with your fuel gage: D At the service station, the gas pump shuts off before

the gage reads F (full).

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

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

speed up.

D The gage doesn’t go back to E (empty) when you

turn off the ignition.

For your fuel tank capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.

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- NOTES

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Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

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

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Comfort Controls Air Conditioning (If Equipped) Heating Defogging and Defrosting Rear Window Defogger (If Equipped) Ventilation System Audio Systems Setting the Clock for Systems without Automatic Tone Control Setting the Clock for Systems with Automatic Tone Control AM-FM Stereo AM-FM Stereo With Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped)

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

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Comfort Controls This section tells you how to make your air system work for you. The optional climate control system with air conditioning uses ozone-friendly R-134a refrigerant. With these systems, you can control the ventilation and heating in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. Standard Climate Control System

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Fan Knob The left knob selects the force of air you want. Turn the knob clockwise to increase fan speed and counterclockwise to decrease fan speed. To turn the fan off, turn the mode knob all the way counterclockwise to OFF. In any other setting, the fan will run continuously.

Temperature Knob The center knob changes the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn this knob toward red (clockwise) for warmer air. Turn it toward blue (counterclockwise) for cooler air.

Mode Knob The right knob has several settings to control the direction of airflow. For each setting, set the temperature to a comfortable setting.

VENT: This setting brings in outside air and

directs it through the instrument panel outlets.

BI-LEVEL: This setting brings in outside air and

directs it two ways. Some air is directed through the instrument panel outlets. Most of the air is directed through the floor ducts and a little to the defrost and side window vents.

FLOOR: This setting sends most of the air

through the ducts near the floor. The rest comes out of the defroster and side window vents.

DEFOG: This setting allows half of the air to go

to the floor ducts and half to the defroster and side window vents.

DEFROST: This setting directs most of the air

through the defroster and side window vents. Some of the air goes to the floor ducts. Climate Control System with Air Conditioning (If Equipped)

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Fan Knob The left knob selects the force of air you want. Turn the knob clockwise to increase fan speed and counterclockwise to decrease fan speed. To turn the fan off, turn the mode knob all the way counterclockwise to OFF. In any other setting, the fan will run continuously. The fan must be on to run the air conditioning compressor.

Temperature Knob The center knob changes the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn this knob toward red (clockwise) for warmer air. Turn it toward blue (counterclockwise) for cooler air.

Mode Knob The right knob has several settings to control the direction of airflow. For each setting, set the temperature to a comfortable setting.

inside your vehicle and sends it through the instrument panel outlets. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically in this setting when it is needed to help cool the air in the vehicle.

MAX: This setting recirculates much of the air

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Air Conditioning (If Equipped) On very hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot, inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down, which should help fuel economy. For quick cool-down on very hot days, use MAX with the temperature knob all the way in the blue area. If this setting is used for long periods of time, the air in your vehicle may become too dry. For normal cooling on hot days, use VENT with the temperature knob in the blue area and the A/C button pushed in. The system will bring in outside air and cool it. On cool, but sunny days, the sun may warm your upper body, but your lower body may not be warm enough. You can use BI-LEVEL with the temperature knob in the middle and the A/C button pushed in. The system will bring in outside air and direct slightly warmer air to your lower body. You may notice this temperature difference more at some times than others.

VENT: This setting brings in outside air and

directs it through the instrument panel outlets.

BI-LEVEL: This setting brings in outside air and

directs it two ways. Some air is directed through the instrument panel outlets. Most of the air is directed through the floor ducts and a little to the defrost and side window vents.

FLOOR: This setting sends most of the air

through the ducts near the floor. The rest comes out of the defroster and side window vents.

DEFOG: This setting allows half of the air to go to the floor ducts and half to the defroster and side window vents.

DEFROST: This setting directs most of the air

through the defroster and side window vents. Some of the air goes to the floor ducts. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically in this setting when it is needed to help dry the air in the vehicle. Air Conditioning Compressor Button Press the A/C button to operate the air conditioner compressor. The indicator light above the button will glow when the air conditioning compressor is running. You don’t have to press the button to run the compressor in MAX or DEFROST. 3-4

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

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To defog the side windows while using the air conditioner, set the right control to BI-LEVEL, the fan control to the highest setting, and press the A/C button. For both systems, aim the side vents toward the side windows. For increased airflow to the side vents, close the center vents. Rear Window Defogger (If Equipped)

The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Press the button to turn the defogger on. It will turn itself off after about 10 minutes.

If you turn it on again, the defogger will only run for about five minutes before turning off. You can also turn it off by pressing the button again. Do not attach a temporary vehicle license across the defogger grid on the rear window.

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NOTICE:

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

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

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

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

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

D Keep the air path under the front seats clear of objects.

This helps air circulate throughout your vehicle.

Audio Systems Your Delco Electronics audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco Electronics system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. Setting the Clock for Systems without Automatic Tone Control Press SET. SET will appear on the display for five seconds. Within five seconds, press and hold the right arrow on the SEEK button until the correct minute appears. Press and hold the left arrow on the SEEK button until the correct hour appears. Setting the Clock for Systems with Automatic Tone Control Press and hold HR until the correct hour appears. Press and hold MN until the correct minute appears.

AM-FM Stereo

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

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Finding a Station AM-FM: Press the lower knob to switch between AM and FM. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Turn the lower knob to choose radio stations. SEEK: Press the right or left arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there. SCAN: Press both SEEK arrows; SCAN will appear on the display. Use SCAN to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station. The radio will scan up or down the radio band, depending on the arrow you pressed first. Press both SEEK arrows or the upper knob to stop scanning. PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 14 stations (seven AM and seven FM). Just: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. 3. Tune in the desired station. 4. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 5. Press one of the four numbered buttons, within five seconds. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

6. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

In addition to the four stations already set, up to three more stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just: 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 3. Press any two adjoining pushbuttons at the same

time, within five seconds. Whenever you press the same buttons, the station you set will return. 4. Repeat the steps for each pair of pushbuttons.

Setting the Tone BASS: Slide the lever up or down to increase or decrease bass. TREB: Slide the lever up or down to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn the control behind the upper knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Turn the control behind the lower knob to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped)

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

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Finding a Station AM-FM: Press the lower knob to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Turn the lower knob to choose radio stations.