2013 Chevrolet Sonic Owners Manual

the tire sidewall, near the valve stem. Then press the button to activate the TPMS sensor. A horn chirp confirms that the sensor identification code has been matched to this tire and wheel position.

9. Proceed to the passenger side

front tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 8.

10. Proceed to the passenger side

rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 8.

11. Proceed to the driver side rear tire, and repeat the procedure in Step 8. The horn sounds two

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Vehicle Care

times to indicate the sensor identification code has been matched to the driver side rear tire, and the TPMS sensor matching process is no longer active. The TIRE LEARN message on the DIC display screen goes off.

12. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. 13. Set all four tires to the

recommended air pressure level as indicated on the Tire and Loading Information label.

Tire Inspection We recommend that the tires, including the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, be inspected for signs of wear or damage at least once a month. Replace the tire if: . The indicators at three or

more places around the tire can be seen.

. There is cord or fabric

showing through the tire's rubber.

. The tread or sidewall is

cracked, cut, or snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric.

. The tire has a bump, bulge,

or split.

. The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that cannot be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.

Tire Rotation Tires should be rotated every 12 000 km (7,500 mi). See Maintenance Schedule on page 11‑2. Tires are rotated to achieve a uniform wear for all tires. The first rotation is the most important.

Anytime unusual wear is noticed, rotate the tires as soon as possible, check for proper tire inflation pressure, and check for damaged tires or wheels. If the unusual wear continues after the rotation, check the wheel alignment. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 10‑53
and Wheel Replacement on page 10‑58.

Use this rotation pattern when rotating the tires.

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Do not include the compact spare tire in the tire rotation. Adjust the front and rear tires to the recommended inflation pressure on the Tire and Loading Information label after the tires have been rotated. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑47
and Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑9. Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor System. See Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on page 10‑49. Check that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2.

{ WARNING

Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.

Lightly coat the center of the wheel hub with wheel bearing grease after a wheel change or tire rotation to prevent corrosion or rust build-up. Do not get grease on the flat wheel mounting surface or on the wheel nuts or bolts.

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When It Is Time for New Tires Factors such as maintenance, temperatures, driving speeds, vehicle loading, and road conditions affect the wear rate of the tires.

Treadwear indicators are one way to tell when it is time for new tires. Treadwear indicators appear when the tires have only 1.6 mm (1/16 in) or less of tread remaining. See Tire Inspection on page 10‑52 and Tire Rotation on page 10‑52.

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The rubber in tires ages over time. This also applies to the spare tire, if the vehicle has one, even if it is never used. Multiple factors including temperatures, loading conditions, and inflation pressure maintenance affect how fast aging takes place. GM recommends that tires, including the spare if equipped, be replaced after six years, regardless of tread wear. The tire manufacturer date is the last four digits of the DOT Tire Identification Number (TIN) which is molded into one side of the tire sidewall. The first two digits represent the week (01–52) and the last two digits, the year. For example, the third week of the year 2010 would have a four-digit DOT date of 0310. Vehicle Storage Tires age when stored normally mounted on a parked vehicle. Park a vehicle that will be stored for at least a month in a cool, dry, clean area away from direct sunlight to

slow aging. This area should be free of grease, gasoline, or other substances that can deteriorate rubber. Parking for an extended period can cause flat spots on the tires that may result in vibrations while driving. When storing a vehicle for at least a month, remove the tires or raise the vehicle to reduce the weight from the tires.

Buying New Tires GM has developed and matched specific tires for the vehicle. The original equipment tires installed were designed to meet General Motors Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) system rating. When replacement tires are needed, GM strongly recommends buying tires with the same TPC Spec rating.

GM's exclusive TPC Spec system considers over a dozen critical specifications that impact the overall performance of the vehicle, including brake system performance, ride and handling, traction control, and tire pressure monitoring performance. GM's TPC Spec number is molded onto the tire's sidewall near the tire size. If the tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC Spec number will be followed by MS for mud and snow. See Tire Sidewall Labeling on page 10‑41. GM recommends replacing worn tires in complete sets of four. Uniform tread depth on all tires will help to maintain the performance of the vehicle. Braking and handling performance may be adversely affected if all the tires are not replaced at the same time.

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If proper rotation and maintenance have been done, all four tires should wear out at about the same time. See Tire Rotation on page 10‑52 for information on proper tire rotation. However, if it is necessary to replace only one axle set of worn tires, place the new tires on the rear axle. Winter tires with the same speed rating as the original equipment tires may not be available for H, V, W, Y and ZR speed rated tires. Never exceed the winter tire's maximum speed capability when using winter tires with a lower speed rating.

{ WARNING

Tires could explode during improper service. Attempting to mount or dismount a tire

(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

could cause injury or death. Only your dealer or authorized tire service center should mount or dismount the tires.

after many miles of driving. A tire and/or wheel could fail suddenly and cause a crash. Use only radial-ply tires with the wheels on the vehicle.

{ WARNING

Mixing tires of different sizes, brands, or types may cause loss of control of the vehicle, resulting in a crash or other vehicle damage. Use the correct size, brand, and type of tires on all wheels.

{ WARNING

Using bias-ply tires on the vehicle may cause the wheel rim flanges to develop cracks

(Continued)

If the vehicle tires must be replaced with a tire that does not have a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating, and construction (radial) as the original tires. Vehicles that have a tire pressure monitoring system could give an inaccurate low-pressure warning if non-TPC Spec rated tires are installed. See Tire Pressure Monitor System on page 10‑48.

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The Tire and Loading Information label indicates the original equipment tires on the vehicle. See Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑9.

Different Size Tires and Wheels If wheels or tires are installed that are a different size than the original equipment wheels and tires, vehicle performance, including its braking, ride and handling characteristics, stability, and resistance to rollover may be affected. If the vehicle has electronic systems such as antilock brakes, rollover airbags, traction control, electronic stability control, or All-Wheel Drive, the performance of these systems can also be affected.

{ WARNING

If different sized wheels are used, there may not be an acceptable level of performance and safety if tires not recommended for those wheels are selected. This increases the chance of a crash and serious injury. Only use GM specific wheel and tire systems developed for the vehicle, and have them properly installed by a GM certified technician.

See Buying New Tires on page 10‑54 and Accessories and Modifications on page 10‑3.

Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example:

Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which grades tires by treadwear, traction, and temperature performance. This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States. The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG) system does not apply to deep tread, winter tires, compact spare tires, tires with

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nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires. While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and light trucks may vary with respect to these grades, they must also conform to federal safety requirements and additional General Motors Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) standards. All Passenger Car Tires Must Conform to Federal Safety Requirements In Addition To These Grades.

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire

graded 150 would wear one and one-half (1½) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction – AA, A, B, C The traction grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A, B, and C. Those grades represent the tire's ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance. Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on

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straight-ahead braking traction tests, and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.

Temperature – A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire's resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of

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performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law. Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The tires and wheels were aligned and balanced at the factory to provide the longest tire life and best overall performance. Adjustments to wheel alignment and tire balancing will not be necessary on a regular basis. However, check the alignment if there is unusual tire wear or if the vehicle is pulling to one side or the other. If the vehicle vibrates when driving on a smooth

road, the tires and wheels might need to be rebalanced. See your dealer for proper diagnosis.

Wheel Replacement Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, or badly rusted or corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, replace it. Some aluminum wheels can be repaired. See your dealer if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer will know the kind of wheel that is needed. Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset, and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS) sensors with new GM original equipment parts.

{ WARNING

Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of the vehicle. Tires can lose air, and cause loss of control, causing a crash. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for replacement.

Notice: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance, and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis.

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WARNING (Continued)

parts. The area damaged by the tire chains could cause loss of control and a crash. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for the vehicle's tire size combination and road conditions. Follow that manufacturer's instructions. To avoid vehicle damage, drive slow and readjust or remove the traction device if it contacts the vehicle. Do not spin the wheels. If traction devices are used, install them on the front tires.

Used Replacement Wheels

{ WARNING

Replacing a wheel with a used one is dangerous. How it has been used or how far it has been driven may be unknown. It could fail suddenly and cause a crash. When replacing wheels, use a new GM original equipment wheel.

Tire Chains

{ WARNING

Do not use tire chains. There is not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension, or other vehicle

(Continued)

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10-59

If a Tire Goes Flat It is unusual for a tire to blow out while driving, especially if the tires are maintained properly. See Tires on page 10‑39. If air goes out of a tire, it is much more likely to leak out slowly. But if there is ever a blowout, here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire creates a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction as used in a skid. Stop pressing the accelerator pedal and steer to straighten the vehicle. It may be very bumpy and noisy. Gently brake to a stop, well off the road, if possible.

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Vehicle Care

{ WARNING

Driving on a flat tire will cause permanent damage to the tire. Re-inflating a tire after it has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat may cause a blowout and a serious crash. Never attempt to re-inflate a tire that has been driven on while severely underinflated or flat. Have your dealer or an authorized tire service center repair or replace the flat tire as soon as possible.

{ WARNING

Lifting a vehicle and getting under it to do maintenance or repairs is dangerous without the appropriate safety equipment and training. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, it is designed only for (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

changing a flat tire. If it is used for anything else, you or others could be badly injured or killed if the vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack is provided with the vehicle, only use it for changing a flat tire.

If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place, well off the road, if possible. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 6‑3.

{ WARNING

Changing a tire can be dangerous. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over or fall causing injury or death. Find a level place to change the tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:

(Continued)

1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put an automatic

transmission in P (Park) or a manual transmission in 1 (First) or R (Reverse).

3. Turn off the engine and do not restart while the vehicle is raised.

4. Do not allow passengers to

remain in the vehicle.

5. Place wheel blocks on both

sides of the tire at the opposite corner of the tire being changed.

This vehicle may come with a jack and spare tire or a tire sealant and compressor kit. To use the jacking equipment to change a spare tire safely, follow the instructions below. Then see Tire Changing on page 10‑68. To use the tire sealant

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and compressor kit, see Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 10‑61. When the vehicle has a flat tire (2), use the following example as a guide to assist you in the placement of wheel blocks (1).

1. Wheel Block 2. Flat Tire The following information explains how to repair or change a tire.

Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit

{ WARNING

Idling a vehicle in an enclosed area with poor ventilation is dangerous. Engine exhaust may enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide (CO) which cannot be seen or smelled. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. Never run the engine in an enclosed area that has no fresh air ventilation. For more information, see Engine Exhaust on page 9‑20.

{ WARNING

Overinflating a tire could cause the tire to rupture and you or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the tire sealant (Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

and compressor kit instructions and inflate the tire to its recommended pressure. Do not exceed the recommended pressure.

{ WARNING Storing the tire sealant and compressor kit or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store the tire sealant and compressor kit in its original location.

If this vehicle has a tire sealant and compressor kit, there may not be a spare tire or tire changing

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Vehicle Care

equipment, and on some vehicles there may not be a place to store a tire. The tire sealant and compressor can be used to temporarily seal punctures up to 6 mm (0.25 in) in the tread area of the tire. It can also be used to inflate an underinflated tire. If the tire has been separated from the wheel, has damaged sidewalls, or has a large puncture, the tire is too severely damaged for the tire sealant and compressor kit to be effective. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5. Read and follow all of the tire sealant and compressor kit instructions.

The kit includes:

1. Sealant Canister Inlet Valve 2. Sealant/Air Hose 3. Base of Sealant Canister 4. Tire Sealant Canister 5. On/Off Button 6. Slot on Top of Compressor 7. Pressure Deflation Button 8. Pressure Gauge

9. Power Plug 10. Air Only Hose Tire Sealant Read and follow the safe handling instructions on the label adhered to the tire sealant canister (4). Check the tire sealant expiration date on the tire sealant canister. The tire sealant canister (4) should be replaced before its expiration date. Replacement tire sealant canisters are available at your local dealer.

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There is only enough sealant to seal one tire. After usage, the tire sealant canister must be replaced. Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit to Temporarily Seal and Inflate a Punctured Tire When using the tire sealant and compressor kit during cold temperatures, warm the kit in a heated environment for five minutes. This will help to inflate the tire faster. If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 6‑3. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑59 for other important safety warnings. Do not remove any objects that have penetrated the tire.

1. Remove the tire sealant

canister (4) and compressor from its storage location. See Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 10‑68. 2. Remove the air only hose (10)

and the power plug (9) from the bottom of the compressor.

3. Place the compressor on the

ground near the flat tire.

4. Attach the air only hose (10) to

the sealant canister inlet valve (1) by turning it clockwise until tight.

5. Slide the base of the tire sealant

canister (3) into the slot on the top of the compressor (6) to hold it upright. Make sure the tire valve stem is positioned close to the ground so the hose will reach it.

6. Remove the valve stem cap from

the flat tire by turning it counterclockwise.

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Do not pinch the power plug cord in the door or window.

9. Start the vehicle. The vehicle

must be running while using the air compressor.

10. Press the on/off button (5) to

turn the tire sealant and compressor kit on. The compressor will inject sealant and air into the tire. The pressure gauge (8) will initially show a high pressure while the compressor pushes the sealant into the tire. Once the sealant is completely dispersed into the tire, the pressure will quickly drop and start to rise again as the tire inflates with air only. Inflate the tire to the recommended inflation pressure using the pressure gauge (8). The recommended inflation pressure can be found

7. Attach the sealant/air hose (2) to

the tire valve stem by turning it clockwise until tight.

8. Plug the power plug (9) into the

accessory power outlet in the vehicle. Unplug all items from other accessory power outlets. See Power Outlets on page 5‑6. If the vehicle has an accessory power outlet, do not use the cigarette lighter. If the vehicle only has a cigarette lighter, use the cigarette lighter.

11.

on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑47. The pressure gauge (8) may read higher than the actual tire pressure while the compressor is on. Turn the compressor off to get an accurate pressure reading. The compressor may be turned on/off until the correct pressure is reached.

Notice: If the recommended pressure cannot be reached after approximately 25 minutes, the vehicle should not be driven farther. The tire is too severely damaged and the tire sealant and compressor kit cannot inflate the tire. Remove the power plug from the accessory power outlet and unscrew the inflating hose from the tire valve. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5.

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12. Press the on/off button (5) to

17. Turn the air only hose (10)

21. Return the equipment to its

turn the tire sealant and compressor kit off. The tire is not sealed and will continue to leak air until the vehicle is driven and the sealant is distributed in the tire. Therefore, Steps 13–21 must be done immediately after Step 12. Be careful while handling the tire sealant and compressor kit as it could be warm after usage.

13. Unplug the power plug (9) from

the accessory power outlet in the vehicle.

14. Turn the sealant/air hose (2)

counterclockwise to remove it from the tire valve stem.

15. Replace the tire valve

stem cap.

16. Remove the tire sealant

canister (4) from the slot on top of the compressor (6).

counterclockwise to remove it from the tire sealant canister inlet valve (1).

18. Turn the sealant/air hose (2)

clockwise onto the sealant canister inlet valve (1) to prevent sealant leakage.

19. Return the air only hose (10)

and power plug (9) back to their original storage location.

20.

If the flat tire was able to inflate to the recommended inflation pressure, remove the maximum speed label from the sealant canister and place it in a highly visible location. Do not exceed the speed on this label until the damaged tire is repaired or replaced.

22.

original storage location in the vehicle. Immediately drive the vehicle 8 km (5 mi) to distribute the sealant in the tire.

23. Stop at a safe location and

check the tire pressure. Refer to Steps 1–10 under “Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit without Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not Punctured).” If the tire pressure has fallen more than 68 kPa (10 psi) below the recommended inflation pressure, stop driving the vehicle. The tire is too severely damaged and the tire sealant cannot seal the tire. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5. If the tire pressure has not dropped more than 68 kPa (10 psi) from the recommended inflation pressure, inflate the tire to the recommended inflation pressure.

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Vehicle Care

24. Wipe off any sealant from the

wheel, tire, or vehicle.

25. Dispose of the used tire

sealant canister (4) at a local dealer or in accordance with local state codes and practices.

26. Replace it with a new canister

available from your dealer.

27. After temporarily sealing a tire

using the tire sealant and compressor kit, take the vehicle to an authorized dealer within 161 km (100 mi) of driving to have the tire repaired or replaced.

Using the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit without Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not Punctured) The kit includes:

8. Pressure Gauge

9. Power Plug 10. Air Only Hose If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on the hazard warning flashers. See Hazard Warning Flashers on page 6‑3. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑59 for other important safety warnings.

1. Sealant Canister Inlet Valve 2. Sealant/Air Hose 3. Base of Sealant Canister 4. Tire Sealant Canister 5. On/Off Button 6. Slot on Top of Compressor 7. Pressure Deflation Button

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1. Remove the compressor from its storage location. See Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit on page 10‑68.

2. Remove the air only hose (10)

and the power plug (9) from the bottom of the compressor.

3. Place the compressor on the

ground near the flat tire. Make sure the tire valve stem is positioned close to the ground so the hose will reach it.

4. Remove the valve stem cap from

the flat tire by turning it counterclockwise.

5. Attach the air only hose (10) to the tire valve stem by turning it clockwise until tight.

6. Plug the power plug (9) into the

accessory power outlet in the vehicle. Unplug all items from other accessory power outlets. See Power Outlets on page 5‑6. If the vehicle has an accessory power outlet, do not use the cigarette lighter.

If the vehicle only has a cigarette lighter, use the cigarette lighter. Do not pinch the power plug cord in the door or window.

7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle

must be running while using the air compressor.

8. Press the on/off button (5) to

9.

turn the tire sealant and compressor kit on. The compressor will inflate the tire with air only. Inflate the tire to the recommended inflation pressure using the pressure gauge (8). The recommended inflation pressure can be found on the Tire and Loading Information label. See Tire Pressure on page 10‑47. The pressure gauge (8) may read higher than the actual tire pressure while the compressor is on. Turn the compressor off to get an accurate pressure

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reading. The compressor may be turned on/off until the correct pressure is reached.

Notice: If the recommended pressure cannot be reached after approximately 25 minutes, the vehicle should not be driven farther. The tire is too severely damaged and the tire sealant and compressor kit cannot inflate the tire. Remove the power plug from the accessory power outlet and unscrew the inflating hose from the tire valve. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 13‑5. 10. Press the on/off button (5) to

turn the tire sealant and compressor kit off. Be careful while handling the compressor as it could be warm after usage.

11. Unplug the power plug (9) from

the accessory power outlet in the vehicle.

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Vehicle Care

12. Turn the air only hose (10)

counterclockwise to remove it from the tire valve stem.

13. Replace the tire valve

stem cap.

14. Return the air only hose (10)

and power plug (9) back to their original storage location.

15. Return the equipment to its

original storage location in the vehicle.

The tire sealant and compressor kit has accessory adapters located in a compartment on the bottom of its housing that can be used to inflate air mattresses, balls, etc.

Storing the Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit The tire sealant and compressor kit is located in the rear storage area. 1. Lift the trim cover.

Tire Changing

Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The compact spare tire and tools are located in the storage compartment in the rear of the vehicle. The jack and tools are stored below the spare tire.

2. Remove the tire sealant

canister (1) and the compressor (2).

To store the tire sealant canister and compressor: 1. Attach the sealant/air hose to

the sealant canister inlet valve. 2. Return the sealant canister and the compressor to their original storage location.

1. Extension 2. Jack 3. Wheel Wrench 4. Strap

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To access the spare tire and tools: 1. Open the trunk or liftgate. See Trunk (Sedan) on page 2‑8 or Liftgate (Hatchback) on page 2‑9.

2. Lift the trim cover.

5. Remove the jack and tools from

their container and place them near the tire being changed. Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. Do a safety check before

proceeding. See If a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑59.

3. Turn the wheel nuts

counterclockwise to loosen them. Do not remove them yet.

3. Turn the retainer

counterclockwise and remove it from the compact spare.

4. Remove the compact spare tire.

See Compact Spare Tire on page 10‑73 for more information.

2. Remove the wheel cover, if the

vehicle has one, to reach the wheel bolts.

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4. Place the jack at the position

marked with a half circle.

5.

Insert the jack handle into the jack and the wheel wrench onto the end of the jack handle.

6. Turn the wheel wrench

clockwise until the lift head is firmly contacting the proper lifting point nearest the flat tire.

{ WARNING

Getting under a vehicle when it is lifted on a jack is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.

{ WARNING

WARNING (Continued)

avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.

7. Turn the wheel wrench

clockwise to raise the vehicle. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the compact spare tire to fit underneath the wheel well.

8. Turn the wheel nuts counterclockwise to remove them.

9. Remove the flat tire.

{ WARNING

Raising the vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help

(Continued)

Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after time. The wheel could come (Continued)

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WARNING (Continued)

off and cause an accident. When changing a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, a cloth or a paper towel can be used; however, use a scraper or wire brush later to remove all rust or dirt.

10. Remove any rust or dirt from

the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces, and spare wheel.

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WARNING (Continued)

be tightened with a torque wrench to the proper torque specification after replacing. Follow the torque specification supplied by the aftermarket manufacturer when using accessory locking wheel nuts. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for original equipment wheel nut torque specifications.

Notice: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. See Capacities and Specifications on page 12‑2 for the wheel nut torque specification.

11. Place the compact spare tire

on the wheel-mounting surface.

{ WARNING

Never use oil or grease on bolts or nuts because the nuts might come loose. The vehicle's wheel could fall off, causing a crash.

12. Reinstall the wheel nuts.

Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.

13. Lower the vehicle by turning

the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely.

{ WARNING

Wheel nuts that are improperly or incorrectly tightened can cause the wheels to become loose or come off. The wheel nuts should

(Continued)

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Vehicle Care

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools

{ WARNING

Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

Storing the Flat Tire and Tools 1. Return the jack and tools to their

original storage location.

2. Replace the trim cover. 3. Place the flat tire, lying flat, in the rear storage compartment. If the vehicle is a sedan the flat tire should be against the back of the rear seats. If the vehicle is a hatchback the flat tire should be against the back of the trunk.

14. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in

a crisscross sequence, as shown.

Notice: Wheel covers will not fit on the vehicle's compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on the compact spare, the cover or the spare could be damaged.

4. Attach one end of the strap to a cargo tie-down in the rear of the vehicle.

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Storing the Compact Spare Tire and Tools Reverse the instructions for removing the spare tire and tools to store the compact spare tire. The compact spare tire is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See Compact Spare Tire on page 10‑73.

Compact Spare Tire { WARNING Driving with more than one compact spare tire at a time could result in loss of braking and handling. This could lead to a crash and you or others could be injured. Use only one compact spare tire at a time.

If this vehicle has a compact spare tire, it was fully inflated when new; however, it can lose air over time.

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Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 420 kPa (60 psi). Stop as soon as possible and check that the spare tire is correctly inflated after being installed on the vehicle. The compact spare tire is designed for temporary use only. The vehicle will perform differently with the spare tire installed and it is recommended that the vehicle speed be limited to 80 km/h (50 mph). To conserve the tread of the spare tire, have the standard tire repaired or replaced as soon as convenient and return the spare tire to the storage area. Notice: When the compact spare is installed, do not take the vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails which can damage the tire, wheel, and other parts of the vehicle. Do not use the compact spare on other vehicles.

Sedan

Hatchback

5. Route the strap through the

wheel, as shown.

6. Attach the other end of the strap

to the other cargo tie-down in the rear of the vehicle.

7. Tighten the strap.

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Vehicle Care

Do not mix the compact spare tire or wheel with other wheels or tires. They will not fit. Keep the spare tire and its wheel together. Notice: Tire chains will not fit the compact spare. Using them can damage the vehicle and the chains. Do not use tire chains on the compact spare.

Jump Starting For more information about the vehicle battery, see Battery on page 10‑23. If the battery has run down, try to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely.

{ WARNING

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because:

. They contain acid that can

burn you.

. They contain gas that can

explode or ignite.

. They contain enough electricity to burn you.

If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to the vehicle that would not be covered by the warranty. Trying to start the vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage the vehicle.

1. Discharged Battery Positive Post 2. Discharged Battery

Negative Post

3. Good Battery Negative Post 4. Good Battery Positive Post

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or Neutral with a manual transmission. See Shifting Into Park (Automatic Transmission) on page 9‑18 with an automatic transmission, or Parking on page 9‑20 with a manual transmission.

Notice: If any accessories are left on or plugged in during the jump starting procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Whenever possible, turn off or unplug all accessories on either vehicle when jump starting the vehicle. 4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

Turn off all lights and accessories in both vehicles, except the hazard warning flashers if needed.

The jump start negative post and positive post are on the discharged battery on the driver side of the vehicle. The jump start positive post and negative post are on the battery of the vehicle providing the jump start. The positive jump start connection for the discharged battery is under a trim cover. Open the cover to expose the terminal. 1. Check the other vehicle. It must

have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system.

Notice: Only use a vehicle that has a 12-volt system with a negative ground for jump starting. If the other vehicle does not have a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. 2. Position the two vehicles so that

they are not touching.

3. Set the parking brake firmly and

put the shift lever in P (Park) with an automatic transmission,

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{ WARNING

An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

{ WARNING

Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount of fluid is there. If it is low, (Continued)

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Vehicle Care

WARNING (Continued)

add water to take care of that first. If you do not, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.

{ WARNING

Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running.

5. Connect one end of the red

positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal on the discharged battery.

Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal.

Jumper Cable Removal Reverse the sequence exactly when removing the jumper cables.

6. Connect the other end of the red

positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.

7. Connect one end of the black

negative (–) cable to the negative (–) terminal of the good battery.

8. Connect the other end of the

black negative (–) cable to the negative (–) post for the discharged battery.

9. Start the engine in the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine at idle speed for at least four minutes.

10. Try to start the vehicle that had

the dead battery. If it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

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Towing

Towing the Vehicle Notice: Incorrectly towing a disabled vehicle may cause damage. The damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not lash or hook to the chassis components including the front and rear subframes, suspension control arms and links during towing and recovery of a disabled vehicle or to secure the vehicle to a flatbed car carrier. Use the proper nylon strap harnesses around the tires to secure the flatbed car carrier. Have the vehicle towed on a flatbed car carrier. A wheel lift tow truck could damage the vehicle. Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if the disabled vehicle must be towed.

To tow the vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes, such as behind a motor home, see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” in this section.

Recreational Vehicle Towing Recreational vehicle towing means towing the vehicle behind another vehicle, such as a motor home. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as dinghy towing and dolly towing. Dinghy towing is towing the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Dolly towing is towing the vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a dolly.

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Here are some important things to consider before recreational vehicle towing: . What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure to read the tow vehicle manufacturer's recommendations.

. What is the distance that will be

traveled? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow. Is the proper towing equipment going to be used? See your dealer or trailering professional for additional advice and equipment recommendations. Is the vehicle ready to be towed? Just as preparing the vehicle for a long trip, make sure the vehicle is prepared to be towed.

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Vehicle Care

Dinghy Towing RS Model with Automatic Transmission

Notice: If the vehicle is towed with all four wheels on the ground, the drivetrain components could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Do not tow the vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. The vehicle was not designed to be towed with all four wheels on the ground. If the vehicle must be

towed, a dolly should be used. See “Dolly Towing” that follows for more information. Dinghy Towing All except RS Model with Automatic Transmission When dinghy towing a vehicle with an automatic transmission, the vehicle should be run at the beginning of each day and at each RV fuel stop for about five minutes. This will ensure proper lubrication of transmission components.

To dinghy tow the vehicle from the front with all four wheels on the ground: 1. Position the vehicle to tow and

then secure it to the towing vehicle.

2. Shift the automatic transmission

to P (Park) or a manual transmission into 1 (First) gear and turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.

3. Set the parking brake. 4. To prevent the battery from draining while the vehicle is being towed, remove the following fuse from the instrument panel fuse block: (DLIS). See Instrument Panel Fuse Block on page 10‑37 for more information.

5. Turn the ignition to ACC/

ACCESSORY.

6. Shift the automatic transmission

to N (Neutral) or a manual transmission to Neutral.

7. Release the parking brake.

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Dolly Towing from the Front

Remember to reinstall the DLIS fuse once the destination has been reached. Notice: If 105 km/h (65 mph) is exceeded while towing the vehicle, it could be damaged. Never exceed 105 km/h (65 mph) while towing the vehicle.

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4. Set the parking brake and

remove the key.

5. Clamp the steering wheel in a straight-ahead position with a clamping device designed for towing.

6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly. 7. Release the parking brake. Dolly Towing from the Rear

The vehicle can be towed from the front using a dolly. To tow the vehicle using a dolly, follow these steps: 1. Attach the dolly to the tow vehicle following the dolly manufacturer's instructions.

2. Drive the front wheels onto the

dolly.

3. Put an automatic transmission in

P (Park) or a manual transmission into 1 (First) gear.

Notice: Towing the vehicle from the rear could damage it. Also, repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Never have the vehicle towed from the rear.

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Vehicle Care

Notice: Towing the vehicle from the rear with the front wheels on the ground could cause transmission damage. Do not tow the vehicle from the rear with the front wheels on the ground.

Appearance Care

Exterior Care

Locks Locks are lubricated at the factory. Use a de-icing agent only when absolutely necessary, and have the locks greased after using. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants. Washing the Vehicle To preserve the vehicle's finish, wash it often and out of direct sunlight. Notice: Do not use petroleum-based, acidic, or abrasive cleaning agents as they can damage the vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic parts. If damage occurs, it would not be covered by the vehicle's warranty. Approved cleaning products can be obtained from your dealer. Follow all manufacturer directions regarding correct

product usage, necessary safety precautions, and appropriate disposal of any vehicle care product. Notice: Avoid using high-pressure washes closer than 30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the vehicle. Use of power washers exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result in damage or removal of paint and decals. Rinse the vehicle well, before washing and after, to remove all cleaning agents completely. If they are allowed to dry on the surface, they could stain. Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting. Finish Care Application of aftermarket clearcoat sealant/wax materials is not recommended. If painted surfaces are damaged, see your dealer to have the damage assessed and

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repaired. Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage the vehicle's finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Occasional hand waxing or mild polishing should be done to remove residue from the paint finish. See your dealer for approved cleaning products. Do not apply waxes or polishes to uncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber, decals, simulated wood, or flat paint as damage can occur. Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes

that are made for a basecoat/ clearcoat paint finish on the vehicle. To keep the paint finish looking new, keep the vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible.

Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts Regularly clean bright metal parts with water or chrome polish on chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary. For aluminum, never use auto or chrome polish, steam, or caustic soap to clean. A coating of wax, rubbed to a high polish, is recommended for all bright metal parts. Cleaning Exterior Lamps/ Lenses and Emblems Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth, and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps, lenses and emblems. Follow instructions under "Washing the Vehicle" in this section.

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Windshield and Wiper Blades Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner. Clean rubber blades using a lint-free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause wiper streaking. Replace the wiper blades if they are worn or damaged. Damage can be caused by extreme dusty conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun, snow, and ice. Weatherstrips Apply silicone grease on weatherstrips to make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Lubricate weatherstrips once a year. Black marks from rubber material on painted surfaces can be removed by rubbing with a

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Vehicle Care

clean cloth. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑12. Tires Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to clean the tires. Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing products on the vehicle may damage the paint finish and/or tires. When applying a tire dressing, always wipe off any overspray from all painted surfaces on the vehicle. Wheels and Trim — Aluminum or Chrome Use a soft, clean cloth with mild soap and water to clean the wheels. After rinsing thoroughly with clean water, dry with a soft, clean towel. A wax may then be applied. Notice: Chrome wheels and other chrome trim may be damaged if the vehicle is not washed after driving on roads that have been sprayed with magnesium,

calcium, or sodium chloride. These chlorides are used on roads for conditions such as ice and dust. Always wash the chrome with soap and water after exposure. Notice: To avoid surface damage, do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners that contain acid on aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. Use only approved cleaners. Also, never drive a vehicle with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels through an automatic car wash that uses silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. Damage could occur and the repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Steering, Suspension, and Chassis Components Visually inspect the front and rear suspension and steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts or signs of wear. Inspect the power steering for proper hook-up, binding,

leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Visually check constant velocity joints, rubber boots, and axle seals for leaks. Body Component Lubrication Lubricate all key lock cylinders, hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the steel fuel door hinge unless the components are plastic. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Underbody Maintenance Use plain water to flush dirt and debris from the vehicle's underbody. Your dealer or an underbody car washing system can do this. If not removed, rust and corrosion can develop. Sheet Metal Damage If the vehicle is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion

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material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide the corrosion protection while maintaining the vehicle warranty. Finish Damage Quickly repair minor chips and scratches with touch-up materials available from your dealer to avoid corrosion. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in your dealer's body and paint shop. Chemical Paint Spotting Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted vehicle surfaces causing blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface.

Interior Care To prevent dirt particle abrasions, regularly clean the vehicle's interior. Immediately remove any soils. Note that newspapers or dark garments that can transfer color to home furnishings can also permanently transfer color to the vehicle's interior. Use a soft bristle brush to remove dust from knobs and crevices on the instrument cluster. Using a mild soap solution, immediately remove hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect repellent from all interior surfaces or permanent damage may result. Your dealer may have products for cleaning the interior. Use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned to prevent permanent damage. Apply all cleaners directly to the cleaning cloth. Do not spray cleaners directly on any switches or controls. Cleaners should be removed quickly. Never allow cleaners to

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remain on the surface being cleaned for extended periods of time. Cleaners may contain solvents that can become concentrated in the interior. Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning the interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening the doors and windows. To prevent damage, do not clean the interior using the following cleaners or techniques: . Never use a razor or any other

sharp object to remove a soil from any interior surface.

. Never use a brush with stiff

bristles.

. Never rub any surface

aggressively or with excessive pressure.

. Do not use laundry detergents or

dishwashing soaps with degreasers. For liquid cleaners, use approximately 20 drops per

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Vehicle Care

3.78 L (1 gal) of water. A concentrated soap solution will leave a residue that creates streaks and attracts dirt. Do not use solutions that contain strong or caustic soap.

. Do not heavily saturate the upholstery when cleaning.

. Do not use solvents or cleaners

containing solvents.

Interior Glass To clean, use a terry cloth fabric dampened with water. Wipe droplets left behind with a clean dry cloth. Commercial glass cleaners may be used, if necessary, after cleaning the interior glass with plain water. Notice: To prevent scratching,