300
3. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or
a manual transmission in FIRST (1).
4. Follow the dolly manufacturer’s instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being towed to the dolly and then the loaded dolly to the tow vehicle.
{CAUTION:
Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is ï¬rmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
5. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
See Four-Wheel Drive on page 126 for more information.
6. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is ï¬rmly attached to the tow vehicle.
7. Turn the ignition to LOCK.
If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for six weeks or more, remove the battery cable from the negative terminal (post) of the battery to prevent your battery from draining while towing.
After towing see “Shifting Out of NEUTRAL†under Four-Wheel Drive on page 126.
301
Rear Towing (Rear Wheels Off the Ground) Two-Wheel-Drive Vehicles
3. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or
a manual transmission in FIRST (1).
4. Follow the dolly manufacturer’s instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being towed to the dolly and then the loaded dolly to the tow vehicle. Make sure the wheels are straight before towing. For manual transmission vehicles, make sure the wheels are straight before proceeding to the next steps. On automatic transmission vehicles, use an adequate clamping device to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position.
Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle from the rear: 1. Drive the vehicle onto the dolly. 2. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 130 for more information.
302
Four-Wheel-Drive Vehicles
5. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is ï¬rmly attached to the tow vehicle.
6. Turn the ignition to LOCK.
If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for six weeks or more, remove the battery cable from the negative terminal (post) of the battery to prevent your battery from draining while towing.
Use the following procedure to tow your vehicle from the rear: 1. Drive the vehicle onto the dolly. 2. Firmly set the parking brake. See Parking Brake on page 130 for more information.
3. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or
a manual transmission in FIRST (1).
303
5. Shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
See Four-Wheel Drive on page 126 for more information.
6. Release the parking brake only after the vehicle being towed is ï¬rmly attached to the tow vehicle.
7. Turn the ignition to LOCK.
If the tow vehicle will not be started or driven for six weeks or more, remove the battery cable from the negative terminal (post) of the battery to prevent your battery from draining while towing.
After towing, see “Shifting Out of NEUTRAL†under Four-Wheel Drive on page 126.
4. Follow the dolly manufacturer’s instructions to attach and secure the vehicle being towed to the dolly and then the loaded dolly to the tow vehicle. For manual transmission vehicles, make sure the wheels are straight before proceeding to the next steps. On automatic transmission vehicles, use an adequate clamping device to ensure that the front wheels are locked into the straight position.
{CAUTION:
Shifting a four-wheel-drive vehicle’s transfer case into NEUTRAL can cause your vehicle to roll even if the transmission is in PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or if your vehicle is in gear, for a manual transmission. You or others could be injured. Make sure the parking brake is ï¬rmly set before you shift the transfer case to NEUTRAL.
304
To identify the trailering capacity of your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer†that appears later in this section. Trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself. Trailering means changes in handling, acceleration, braking, durability and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer.
Towing a Trailer
{CAUTION:
If you do not use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well — or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.
Notice: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs that would not be covered by your warranty. Always follow the instructions in this section and check with your dealer for more information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.
305
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points: (cid:127) There are many different laws, including speed
limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police.
(cid:127) Consider using a sway control. You can ask a
hitch dealer about sway controls.
(cid:127) Don’t tow a trailer at all during the ï¬rst
500 miles (800 km) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged.
(cid:127) Then, during the ï¬rst 500 miles (800 km) that
you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. (cid:127) You may want to shift the transmission to THIRD (3) or, if necessary, a lower gear selection if the transmission shifts too often (e.g., under heavy loads and/or hilly conditions). If you have a manual transmission and you are towing a trailer, it’s better not to use the highest gear.
Three important considerations have to do with weight: (cid:127) (cid:127) (cid:127) and the weight on your vehicle’s tires.
the weight of the trailer, the weight of the trailer tongue
306
Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be? It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all important. It can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle, and the amount of
tongue weight the vehicle can carry. See “Weight of the Trailer Tongue†later in this section for more information. Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.
The following charts show how much your trailer can weigh, based upon your vehicle model and options.
2WD Regular Cab Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine
Axle Ratio
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
3.73
3.73
3.73
3,300 lbs (1 497 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
8,500 lbs (3 855 kg)
2,300 lbs (1 043 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
2WD Reg. Cab/mid-box Axle Ratio Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine
3.73
3.73
3.73
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
3,200 lbs (1 451 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
9,000 lbs (4 082 kg)
2,200 lbs (997 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
307
2WD Extended Cab
Axle Ratio
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine
2WD Crew Cab Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine
4WD Regular Cab Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine
308
3.73
3.73
3.73
3,100 lbs (1 406 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
9,000 lbs (4 082 kg)
2,100 lbs (952 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
Axle Ratio
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
3.73
3.73
3.73
2,900 lbs (1 315 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
9,000 lbs (4 082 kg)
1,900 lbs (862 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
Axle Ratio
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
3.73
4.10
3.73
3.73
4.10
3,000 lbs (1 361 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
3,000 lbs (1 361 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
9,000 lbs (4 082 kg)
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
2,000 lbs (907 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
4WD Extended Cab Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 2.9L Engine Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine Manual Transmission, 2.9L Engine
4WD Crew Cab Automatic Transmission, 3.7L Engine
Axle Ratio
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
3.73
4.10
3.73
3.73
4.10
2,900 lbs (1 315 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
2,900 lbs (1 315 kg)
7,000 lbs (3 175 kg)
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
9,000 lbs (4 082 kg)
1,900 lbs (861 kg)
1,900 lbs (861 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
6,000 lbs (2 722 kg)
Axle Ratio
Maximum Trailer Weight
GCWR*
3.73
4,000 lbs (1 814 kg)
9,000 lbs (4 082 kg)
*The Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) is the total allowable weight of the completely loaded vehicle and trailer including any passengers, cargo, equipment and conversions. The GCWR for your vehicle should not be exceeded. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at our Customer Assistance Offices. See Customer Assistance Offices on page 468 for more information.
309
Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. If you have a lot of options, equipment, passengers or cargo in your vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight your vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight your vehicle can tow. And if you will tow a trailer, you must add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See Loading Your Vehicle on page 290 for more information about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.
310
The trailer tongue weight (A) should be 10 percent to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight, up to a maximum of 500 lbs (226 kg) with a weight carrying hitch. Do not exceed the maximum allowable tongue weight for your vehicle. Choose the shortest hitch extension that will position the hitch ball closest to the vehicle. This will help reduce the effect of trailer tongue weight on the rear axle.
After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t you may be able to get them right simply by moving some of the items around in the trailer. Trailering may be limited by the vehicle’s ability to carry tongue weight. Tongue weight cannot cause the vehicle to exceed the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) or the RGAWR (Rear Gross Axle Weight Rating). The effect of additional weight may reduce your trailering capacity more than the total of the additional weight. Consider the following example: A vehicle model base weight is 5,500 lbs (2 495 kg); 2,800 lbs (1 270 kg) at the front axle and 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg) at the rear axle. It has a GVWR of 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg), a RGAWR of 4,000 lbs (1 814 kg) and a GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating) of 14,000 lbs (6 350 kg).
The trailer rating should be:
You can expect tongue weight to be at least 10 percent of trailer weight (850 lbs (386 kg)) and because the weight is applied well behind the rear axle, the effect on the rear axle will be greater than just the weight itself, as much as 1.5 times as much. The weight at the rear axle could be 850 lbs (386 kg) X 1.5 = 1,275 lbs (578 kg). Since the rear axle already weighs 2,700 lbs (1 225 kg), adding 1,275 lbs (578 kg) brings the total to 3,975 lbs (1 803 kg). This is very close to, but within the limit for RGAWR as well. The vehicle is set to trailer up to 8,500 lbs (3 856 kg).
311
But let’s say your speciï¬c vehicle is equipped with some of the latest options and you have a front seat passenger and two rear seat passengers with some luggage and gear in the vehicle as well. You may add 300 lbs (136 kg) to the front axle weight and 400 lbs (181 kg) to the rear axle weight. Your vehicle now weighs:
Weight is still below 7,200 lbs (3 266 kg) and you may think that you should subtract 700 additional pounds (318 kg) from your trailering capacity to stay within GCWR limits. Your maximum trailer would only be 7,800 lbs (3 538 kg).
You may go further and think you must limit tongue weight to less than 1,000 lbs (454 kg) to avoid exceeding GVWR. But, you must still consider the effect on the rear axle. Because your rear axle now weighs 3,100 lbs (1 406 kg), you can only put 900 lbs (408 kg) on the rear axle without exceeding RGAWR. The effect of tongue weight is about 1.5 times the actual weight. Dividing the 900 lbs (408 kg) by 1.5 leaves you with being able to handle only 600 lbs (272 kg) of tongue weight. Since tongue weight is usually at least 10 percent of total loaded trailer weight, you can expect that the largest trailer your vehicle can properly handle is 6,000 lbs (2 721 kg). It is important that you make sure your vehicle does not exceed any of its ratings — GCWR, GVWR, RGAWR, Maximum Trailer Rating or Tongue Weight. The only way to be sure you are not exceeding any of these ratings is to weigh your vehicle and trailer.
312
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You’ll ï¬nd these numbers on the Certiï¬cation/Tire label located at the bottom of the center pillar on the driver’s side of the vehicle, or see Loading Your Vehicle on page 290. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVWR limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue. Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch.
Weight-Distributing Hitches and Weight Carrying Hitches You can use your step bumper hitch for trailers up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) total weight, and 200 lbs (90 kg) tongue weight. Notice: bumper could be damaged in sharp turns. Make sure you have ample room when turning to avoid contact between the trailer and the bumper.
If you use a step-bumper hitch, your
313
Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer to help prevent the tongue from contacting the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. For trailers up to 2,000 lbs (907 kg) you may attach the safety chains to the attaching points on the bumper. For heavier trailers, follow the trailer or hitch manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety chains. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. Never allow safety chains to drag on the ground.
Trailer Brakes If your trailer weighs more than 1,000 lbs (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes — and they must be adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Your trailer’s brake system can tap into the vehicle’s hydraulic brake system only if: (cid:127) The trailer parts can withstand 3,000 psi
(20 650 kPa) of pressure.
(cid:127) The trailer’s brake system will use less than
0.02 cubic inch (0.3 cc) of fluid from your vehicle’s master cylinder. Otherwise, both braking systems won’t work well. You could even lose your brakes.
If everything checks out this far, then make the brake fluid tap at the port on the master cylinder that sends fluid to the rear brakes. But don’t use copper tubing for this. If you do, it will bend and ï¬nally break off. Use steel brake tubing.
314
Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and attachments, safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.
Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.
315
Making Turns Notice: Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering. When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have extra wiring and a heavy-duty turn signal flasher. The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out.
Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working. Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. When towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, consider the following: Engine coolant will boil at a lower temperature than at normal altitudes. If you turn your engine off immediately after towing at high altitude on steep uphill grades, your vehicle may show signs similar to engine overheating. To avoid this, let the engine run while parked (preferably on level ground) with the automatic transmission in PARK (P) (or the manual transmission out of gear and the parking brake applied) for a few minutes before turning the engine off. If you do get the overheat warning, see Engine Overheating on page 348.
316
Parking on Hills
{CAUTION:
You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged.
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into
PARK (P) yet, or into gear for a manual transmission. When parking uphill, turn your wheels away from the curb. When parking downhill, turn your wheels into the curb.
2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer
wheels.
3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release
the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your parking brake, and then shift into PARK (P), or REVERSE (R) for a manual transmission. See Parking Brake on page 130 for more information.
5. If you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle, be sure
the transfer case is in a drive gear and not in NEUTRAL. See Four-Wheel Drive on page 126 for more information.
6. Release the regular brakes. When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal
down while you: (cid:127) start your engine, (cid:127) shift into a gear, and (cid:127)
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 someone pick up and store
the chocks.
317
Trailer Recommendations You must subtract your hitch load from the CWR for your vehicle. Weigh your vehicle with your trailer attached, so that you won’t go over the GVWR or the GAWR. You’ll get the best performance if you spread out the weight of your load the right way, and if you choose the correct hitch and trailer brakes. For more information, see Towing a Trailer on page 305 later in this section.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 445 for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transmission fluid (don’t overï¬ll), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you ï¬nd them quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight. Trailer Wiring Harness Your vehicle may be equipped with a four-pin trailer towing harness. This harness has a four-pin trailer connector that is attached to a bracket on the hitch platform. The four-wire harness contains the following trailer circuits: (cid:127) Yellow: Left Stop/Turn Signal (cid:127) Green: Right Stop/Turn Signal (cid:127) Brown: Taillamps/Park lamps (cid:127) White: Ground
318
Section 5
Service and Appearance Care
Service ........................................................ 322
Accessories and Modiï¬cations ................... 323
California Proposition 65 Warning .............. 323
Doing Your Own Service Work .................. 324
Adding Equipment to the Outside
of Your Vehicle ...................................... 325
Fuel ............................................................. 325
Gasoline Octane ........................................ 325
Gasoline Speciï¬cations .............................. 325
California Fuel ........................................... 326
Additives ................................................... 326
Fuels in Foreign Countries ........................ 327
Filling the Tank ......................................... 328
Filling a Portable Fuel Container ............... 330
Checking Things Under the Hood .............. 330
Hood Release ........................................... 331
Engine Compartment Overview .................. 332
Engine Oil ................................................. 333
Engine Oil Life System .............................. 336
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ............................ 338
Automatic Transmission Fluid .................... 339
Manual Transmission Fluid ........................ 342
Hydraulic Clutch ........................................ 344
Engine Coolant .......................................... 345
Radiator Pressure Cap .............................. 348
Engine Overheating ................................... 348
Cooling System ......................................... 350
Engine Fan Noise ..................................... 355
Power Steering Fluid ................................. 355
Windshield Washer Fluid ........................... 356
Brakes ...................................................... 357
Battery ...................................................... 361
Jump Starting ............................................ 362
Rear Axle .................................................... 368
Four-Wheel Drive ........................................ 368
Front Axle ................................................... 369
319
Section 5
Service and Appearance Care
Bulb Replacement ....................................... 370
Halogen Bulbs ........................................... 370
Headlamps ................................................ 371
Front Turn Signal, Parking and Daytime
Running Lamps (DRL) ........................... 372
Center High-Mounted
Stoplamp (CHMSL) ................................ 372
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps
and Back-up Lamps ............................... 373
License Plate Lamp ................................... 374
Replacement Bulbs ................................... 374
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ....... 375
Tires ............................................................ 377
Tire Sidewall Labeling ............................... 378
Tire Terminology and Deï¬nitions ............... 382
Inflation - Tire Pressure ............................. 385
Tire Pressure Monitor System ................... 386
Tire Inspection and Rotation ...................... 391
When It Is Time for New Tires .................. 393
Buying New Tires ...................................... 394
Different Size Tires and Wheels ................ 396
Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..................... 397
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ............ 398
Wheel Replacement .................................. 398
Tire Chains ............................................... 400
If a Tire Goes Flat .................................... 401
Changing a Flat Tire ................................. 402
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools .......... 403
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing
the Spare Tire ....................................... 406
Secondary Latch System ........................... 414
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools ...... 418
Spare Tire ................................................. 422
320
Section 5
Service and Appearance Care
Appearance Care ........................................ 424
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle .......... 424
Fabric/Carpet ............................................. 425
Leather ...................................................... 426
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other
Plastic Surfaces ..................................... 427
Care of Safety Belts .................................. 427
Weatherstrips ............................................ 427
Washing Your Vehicle ............................... 428
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses ................ 428
Finish Care ............................................... 428
Windshield and Wiper Blades .................... 429
Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels ......... 430
Tires ......................................................... 431
Sheet Metal Damage ................................. 431
Finish Damage .......................................... 431
Underbody Maintenance ............................ 432
Chemical Paint Spotting ............................ 432
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ............ 433
Vehicle Identiï¬cation .................................. 434
Vehicle Identiï¬cation Number (VIN) ........... 434
Service Parts Identiï¬cation Label ............... 434
Electrical System ........................................ 434
Add-On Electrical Equipment ..................... 434
Windshield Wiper Fuses ............................ 435
Fuses and Circuit Breakers ....................... 435
Engine Compartment Fuse Block ............... 435
Capacities and Speciï¬cations .................... 439
321
Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people.
We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:
322
California Proposition 65 Warning Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems (including some inside the vehicle), many fluids, and some component wear by-products contain and/or emit these chemicals.
Accessories and Modiï¬cations When you add non-GM accessories to your vehicle they can affect your vehicle’s performance and safety, including such things as, airbags, braking, stability, ride and handling, emissions systems, aerodynamics, durability, and electronic systems like anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control. Some of these accessories may even cause malfunction or damage not covered by warranty. GM Accessories are designed to complement and function with other systems on your vehicle. Your GM dealer can accessorize your vehicle using genuine GM Accessories. When you go to your GM dealer and ask for GM Accessories, you will know that GM-trained and supported service technicians will perform the work using genuine GM Accessories.
323
Doing Your Own Service Work
{CAUTION:
You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.
(cid:127) Be sure you have sufficient knowledge,
experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.
(cid:127) Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts,
and other fasteners. English and metric fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt.
If you want to do some of your own service work, you will want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 482. Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 92. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See Maintenance Record on page 460.
324
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Fuel Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the proper maintenance of your vehicle. To help keep your engine clean and maintain optimum vehicle performance, GM recommends the use of gasoline advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline.
Gasoline Octane Use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 87 or higher. If the octane rating is less than 87, you may notice an audible knocking noise when you drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible. If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service.
Gasoline Speciï¬cations At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM speciï¬cation D 4814 in the United States or CAN/CGSB-3.5 in Canada. Some gasolines may contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT). General Motors recommends against the use of gasolines containing MMT. See Additives on page 326 for additional information.
325
California Fuel If your vehicle is certiï¬ed to meet California Emissions Standards, it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California speciï¬cations. See the underhood emission control label. If this fuel is not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal speciï¬cations, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on and your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 190. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for diagnosis. If it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
326
Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system to work properly. In most cases, you should not have to add anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations. To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean, or if your vehicle experiences problems due to dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Also, your dealer has additives that will help correct and prevent most deposit-related problems. Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines if they comply with the speciï¬cations described earlier. However, E85 (85% ethanol) and other fuels containing more than 10% ethanol must not be used in vehicles that were not designed for those fuels.
Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant where you buy gasoline whether the fuel contains MMT. General Motors recommends against the use of such gasolines. Fuels containing MMT can reduce the life of spark plugs and the performance of the emission control system may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this occurs, return to your dealer for service.
Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to ï¬nd. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel would not be covered by your warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you will be driving.
327
Filling the Tank
{CAUTION:
Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel ï¬re can cause bad injuries. To help avoid injuries to you and others, read and follow all the instructions on the pump island. Turn off your engine when you are refueling. Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel pump unattended when refueling your vehicle. This is against the law in some places. Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump fuel.
328
The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel door on the driver’s side of the vehicle. To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly counterclockwise. While refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap from the hook on the fuel door.
{CAUTION:
If you spill fuel and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way.
Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overï¬ll the tank and wait a few seconds after you have ï¬nished pumping before removing the nozzle. Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See Washing Your Vehicle on page 428. When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere.
If the fuel cap is not properly installed, the FUEL CAP message will appear on the Driver Information Center (DIC) and the check engine light will be lit on the instrument panel cluster. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 200 and Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 190 for more information.
{CAUTION:
If a ï¬re starts while you are refueling, do not remove the nozzle. Shut off the flow of fuel by shutting off the pump or by notifying the station attendant. Leave the area immediately.
Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not ï¬t properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions system. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 190.
329
Checking Things Under the Hood
{CAUTION:
Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a ï¬re. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
{CAUTION:
Never ï¬ll a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others:
(cid:127) Dispense gasoline only into approved
containers.
(cid:127) Do not ï¬ll a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than the ground.
(cid:127) Bring the ï¬ll nozzle in contact with the inside of the ï¬ll opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the ï¬lling is complete.
(cid:127) Do not smoke while pumping gasoline.
330
Hood Release To open the hood, do the following:
1. Pull the handle with this symbol on it. It is located inside the vehicle on the lower left side of the instrument panel.
Before closing the hood, be sure all the ï¬ller caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood prop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Lower the hood 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm) above the vehicle and release it to latch fully. Check to make sure the hood is closed and repeat the procedure if necessary.
2. Release the secondary latch on the hood.
It is located below the front center of the hood.
3. Lift the hood. 4. Release the hood prop from its retainer and put the hood prop into the slot in the hood.
331
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 2.9L engine (3.7L engine similar), you will see the following:
332
A. Windshield Washer Fluid. See “Adding Washer
Fluid†under Windshield Washer Fluid on page 356.
B. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank. See Engine
Coolant on page 345.
C. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter on page 338.
D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (low in engine
compartment). See Power Steering Fluid on page 355.
E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (If
Equipped). See “Checking the Fluid Level†under Automatic Transmission Fluid on page 339.
F. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine
Oil†under Engine Oil on page 333.
G. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Cooling System
on page 350.
H. Remote Negative (−) Terminal (GND). See
Jump Starting on page 362.
I. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oilâ€
under Engine Oil on page 333.
J. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. See Jump
Starting on page 362.
K. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid†under
Brakes on page 357.
L. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine
Compartment Fuse Block on page 435.
M. Battery. See Battery on page 361. N. Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Reservoir (If Equipped).
See Hydraulic Clutch on page 344.
Engine Oil
Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil every time
you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
on level ground.
The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332
for the location of the engine oil dipstick.
1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several
minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you
do not do this, the oil dipstick might not
show the actual level.
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper
towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.
333
When to Add Engine Oil
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for the location of the engine oil ï¬ll cap.
Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through.
If the oil is below the cross-hatched area (L), you will need to add at least one quart/liter of oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Speciï¬cations on page 439. Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged.
334
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50.
Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certiï¬ed by the American Petroleum Institute (API).
You should look for this information on the oil container, and use only those oils that are identiï¬ed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and have the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. Notice: Use only engine oil identiï¬ed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and showing the American Petroleum Institute Certiï¬ed For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty. GM Goodwrench® oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle.
335
Look or two things: (cid:127) GM6094M
Your vehicle’s engine requires oil meeting
GM Standard GM6094M. You should look for
and use only an oil that meets GM Standard
GM6094M.
(cid:127) SAE 5W-30
As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30
is best for your vehicle.
When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is necessary. A CHANGE OIL message will come on. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 200. Change your oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the oil life system may not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, your engine oil and ï¬lter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your dealer has GM-trained people who will perform this work using genuine GM parts and reset the system. It is also important to check your oil regularly and keep it at the proper level. If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must change your oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed.
If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the
temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), it is
recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30
synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both will
provide easier cold starting and better protection
for the engine at extremely low temperatures.
Engine Oil Additives
Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended
oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM
Standard GM6094M are all you will need for good
performance and engine protection.
Engine Oil Life System When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and ï¬lter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you must reset the system every time the oil is changed.
336
How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change your engine oil and ï¬lter based on vehicle use. Anytime your oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change your oil prior to a CHANGE OIL message being turned on, reset the system. To reset the Engine Oil Life system, do the following: 1. With the engine off, turn the ignition to ON. 2. Press and release the stem in the lower center
of the instrument cluster until the OIL LIFE message is displayed.
3. Once the alternating OIL LIFE and RESET messages appear, press and hold the stem until several beeps sound. This conï¬rms that the oil life system has been reset.
4. Turn the key to LOCK. If the CHANGE OIL message comes back on when you start your vehicle, the engine oil life system has not reset. Repeat the procedure. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 200.
What to Do with Used Oil Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products. Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the ï¬lter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask your dealer, a service station, or a local recycling center for help.
337
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/ï¬lter is located in the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for more information on location.
338
When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Inspect the air cleaner/ï¬lter at the Maintenance II intervals and replace it at the ï¬rst oil change after each 50,000 mile (83 000 km) interval. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 445 for more information. If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the ï¬lter at each engine oil change. How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/ï¬lter, do the following: 1. Unfasten the clips that hold the cover on and
remove the cover.
2. Lift out the engine air cleaner/ï¬lter. 3. Inspect or replace the air ï¬lter. See Normal
Maintenance Replacement Parts on page 458
to determine which ï¬lter to use.
4. Reinstall the engine air cleaner/ï¬lter cover. Fasten the clips to hold the cover in place.
{CAUTION:
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/ ï¬lter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backï¬res. If it is not there and the engine backï¬res, you could be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/ï¬lter off.
If the air cleaner/ï¬lter is off, a backï¬re
Notice: can cause a damaging engine ï¬re. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/ï¬lter in place when you are driving.
Automatic Transmission Fluid When to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change the fluid and ï¬lter at the intervals listed in Additional Required Services on page 448, and be sure to use the transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455. How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
339
Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a ï¬re. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission fluid level if you have been driving: (cid:127) When outside temperatures are above
90°F (32°C).
In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather.
(cid:127) At high speed for quite a while. (cid:127) (cid:127) While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), drive the vehicle in THIRD (3) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes.
A cold fluid check can be made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off, but this is used only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for ï¬ve minutes if outside temperatures are 50°F (10°C) or more. If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), you may have to idle the engine longer. Should the fluid level be low during this cold check, you must check the fluid hot before adding fluid. Checking the fluid hot will give you a more accurate reading of the fluid level. Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: 1. Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the
engine running.
2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift
lever in PARK (P).
3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). 4. Let the engine run at idle for three minutes
or more.
340
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 1. Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.
The automatic transmission dipstick handle with this symbol on it is located in the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for more information on location.
2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds
and then pull it back out again.
3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the COLD area, below the cross-hatched area, for a cold check or in the HOT or cross-hatched area for a hot check. Be sure to keep the dipstick pointed down to get an accurate reading.
4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle down to lock the dipstick in place.
341
How to Add Automatic Transmission Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455. Add fluid only after checking the transmission fluid while it is hot. A cold check is used only as a reference. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. It does not take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L). Do not overï¬ll. Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission fluid may damage your vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by your warranty. Always use the automatic transmission fluid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455. (cid:127) After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under “How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid,†earlier in this section.
(cid:127) When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle down to lock the dipstick in place.
342
Manual Transmission Fluid When to Check A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. However, the fluid in your manual transmission does not require changing. How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your GM dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading. Notice: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission. Too little fluid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission fluid. Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your ï¬ngers on the transmission case.
Then, follow these steps:
How to Add Fluid Here is how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455. 1. Remove the ï¬ller plug. 2. Add fluid at the ï¬ller plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the ï¬ller plug hole.
3. Install the ï¬ller plug. Be sure the plug is
fully seated.
1. Remove the ï¬ller plug. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the
bottom of the ï¬ller plug hole.
3. If the fluid level is good, install the plug and be sure it is fully seated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid as described in the next steps.
343
Hydraulic Clutch The hydraulic clutch linkage in your vehicle is self-adjusting. The clutch master cylinder reservoir is ï¬lled with hydraulic clutch fluid.
When to Check and What to Use
The hydraulic clutch fluid reservoir cap has this symbol on it. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for reservoir location.
It is not necessary to regularly check clutch fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system. Adding fluid will not correct a leak. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often you should check the fluid level in your clutch master cylinder reservoir and for the proper fluid. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455.
344
How to Check and Add Fluid The proper fluid should be added if the level does not reach the bottom of the diaphragm when it is in place in the reservoir. See the instructions on the reservoir cap.
Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is ï¬lled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for ï¬ve years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs ï¬rst, if you add only DEX-COOL® extended life coolant. The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating on page 348.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant will: (cid:127) Give freezing protection down to −34°F (−37°C). (cid:127) Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C). (cid:127) Protect against rust and corrosion. (cid:127) Help keep the proper engine temperature. (cid:127) Let the warning lights and gages work as they
should.
Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may require changing sooner, at the ï¬rst maintenance service after each 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ï¬rst. Any repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always use DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
345
If you use an improper coolant
Notice: mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost would not be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core, and other parts. Notice: If you use extra inhibitors and/or additives in your vehicle’s cooling system, you could damage your vehicle. Use only the proper mixture of the engine coolant listed in this manual for the cooling system. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455 for more information.
What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which will not damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you do not need to add anything else.
{CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch ï¬re and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and the proper coolant.
346
Checking Coolant
The coolant recovery tank cap has this symbol on it.
Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank.
It is located toward the rear of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for more information on location. The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at FULL COLD, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level could be above the FULL COLD level.
{CAUTION:
Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — when the engine and radiator are hot.
347
Add coolant mixture at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.
{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.
Occasionally check the coolant level in the
radiator. For information on how to add coolant to
the radiator, see Cooling System on page 350.
Radiator Pressure Cap
Notice:
installed, coolant loss and possible engine
damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly
and tightly secured.
See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332
for more information on location.
If the pressure cap is not tightly
Engine Overheating A coolant temperature gage is on the instrument panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 189. The air conditioning might stop working if the engine is too hot. This is normal and helps cool the engine. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
{CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood.
CAUTION:
(Continued)
348
CAUTION:
(Continued)
If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch ï¬re. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.
If your engine catches ï¬re because
Notice: you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: (cid:127) Climb a long hill on a hot day. (cid:127) Stop after high-speed driving. (cid:127) Idle for long periods in traffic. (cid:127) Tow a trailer. See “Driving on Grades†under Towing a Trailer on page 305.
If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in
NEUTRAL while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL and let the engine idle.
2. Turn off the air conditioning. 3. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest
fan speed and open the windows as necessary.
If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there is still no sign of steam, idle the engine for three minutes while you are parked. Push down the accelerator until the engine speed is about twice as fast as normal idle speed for at least three minutes while you are parked. If you still have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.
349
Cooling System When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what you will see:
A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Engine Cooling Fan C. Radiator Pressure Cap If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be parked on a level surface.
350
When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at least up to the FULL COLD mark. If it is not, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
Notice: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant is not covered by your warranty. Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ï¬rst. Any repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always use DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
{CAUTION:
Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine ï¬re, and you could be burned. Get any leak ï¬xed before you drive the vehicle.
If there seems to be no leak, start the engine again. The engine cooling fan speed should increase when idle speed is doubled by pushing the accelerator pedal down. If it does not, your vehicle needs service. Turn off the engine.
351
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant
Recovery Tank
If you have not found a problem yet, but the
coolant level is not at the FULL COLD mark, add
a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL® engine coolant at the coolant
recovery tank. See Engine Coolant on page 345
for more information.
{CAUTION:
Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch ï¬re and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant.
352
In cold weather, water can freeze and
Notice: crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture.
{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.
When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the FULL COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there is one more thing you can try. Add the proper mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
{CAUTION:
Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator
1. Remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise about one full turn. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
2. Keep turning the cap to remove it.
353
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL®
coolant mixture, up to the base of the ï¬ller
neck. See Engine Coolant on page 345
for more information about the proper coolant
mixture.
6. Start the engine and let it run until you can
feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan.
7. By this time, the coolant level inside the
radiator ï¬ller neck might be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture through the ï¬ller neck until the level reaches the base of the ï¬ller neck.
8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time
during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the ï¬ller neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure to secure it tightly.
4. Fill the coolant recovery tank to the
FULL COLD mark.
5. Reinstall the cap on the coolant recovery tank,
but leave the radiator pressure cap off.
354
Engine Fan Noise This vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan. When the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster to provide more air to cool the engine. In most everyday driving conditions, the clutch is not engaged. This improves fuel economy and reduces fan noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed increases when the clutch engages. So you may hear an increase in fan noise. This is normal and should not be mistaken as the transmission slipping or making extra shifts. It is merely the cooling system functioning properly. The fan will slow down when additional cooling is not required and the clutch disengages. You may also hear this fan noise when you start the engine. It will go away as the fan clutch disengages.
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid reservoir is located near the front of the engine compartment, behind the radiator. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
355
How to Check Power Steering Fluid 1. Turn the key off and let the engine
compartment cool down.
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean. 3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with
a clean rag.
4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. 5. Then remove the cap again and look at
the fluid level on the dipstick.
The level should be between the ADD and FULL marks. If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to the proper range. What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 455. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.
Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it.
Add washer fluid
until the tank is full. See
Engine Compartment
Overview on page 332
for reservoir location.
356
Notice: (cid:127) When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.
(cid:127) Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer
fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water does not clean as well as washer fluid.
(cid:127) Fill your washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.
(cid:127) Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze)
in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.
Brakes Brake Fluid
The brake master cylinder reservoir is ï¬lled with DOT-3 brake fluid. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 332 for the location of the reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The ï¬rst is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have the brake system ï¬xed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well, or will not work at all.
357
Checking Brake Fluid You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap.
Look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be above MIN. If it is not have the brake system checked to see if there is a leak.
After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make sure the level is above the MIN but not over the MAX mark.
So, it is not a good idea to top off the brake fluid. Adding brake fluid will not correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you will have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add or remove brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.
{CAUTION:
If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. See “Checking Brake Fluid†in this section.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to check your brake fluid. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 445.
358
What to Add
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3
brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed
container only. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 455.
Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and
the area around the cap before removing it. This
will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir.
{CAUTION:
With the wrong kind of fluid in the brake system, the brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
Notice: (cid:127) Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint ï¬nish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See Washing Your Vehicle on page 428.
(cid:127)
359
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are ï¬rst applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque speciï¬cations. Rear drum brakes do not have wear indicators, but if you ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rear brake linings inspected immediately. Also, the rear brake drums should be removed and inspected each time the tires are removed for rotation or changing. When you have the front brake pads replaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.
Brake Wear Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving, except when you are pushing on the brake pedal ï¬rmly.
{CAUTION:
The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That