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2-36
To idle your vehicle with the automatic headlamp
system off, set the parking brake while the ignition is
off. Then start your vehicle. The automatic headlamp
system will stay off until you release the parking brake.
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
headlamp system when you need it.
Lamps On Reminder
A reminder tone will sound when your headlamps or
parking lamps are manually turned on and your ignition
is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY. To turn the tone off,
turn the knob all the way counterclockwise. In the
automatic mode, the headlamps turn off once the
ignition key is in OFF.
Daytime Running Lamps (If Equipped)
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for
others to see the front of your vehicle during the day.
DRL can be helpful in many different driving
conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the
short periods after dawn and before sunset.The DRL system will make your headlamps come on at
reduced brightness when:
the ignition is on,
the headlamp switch is in automatic headlamp mode,
the light sensor detects daytime light,
the transmission is not in PARK (P), and
the parking brake is released.
When the DRL are on, only your headlamps will be on.
The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won't be on.
The instrument panel won't be lit up either.
When it begins to get dark, the headlamps
will automatically switch from DRL to the
regular headlamps.
To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, put your
vehicle's transmission in PARK (P). The DRL will stay
off until you shift out of PARK (P).
As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular
headlamp system when you need it.
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4-50 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. Then turn your wheels into the curb if
facing downhill or into traffic if facing uphill.
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 shift into PARK (P).
5. 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:
Start your engine;
Shift into a gear; and
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.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
Your vehicle will need service more often when you're
pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more
on this. Things that are especially important in trailer
operation are automatic transmission fluid (don't
overfill), engine oil, axle lubricant, belt, cooling system
and brake system. Each of these is covered in this
manual, and the Index will help you find 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.
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5-4
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables
can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren't touching
each other. If they are, it could cause a ground
connection you don't want. You wouldn't be able to
start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could
damage the electrical systems.
To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set
the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in
the procedure. Put an automatic transmission vehicle
in PARK (P) and a manual transmission vehicle in
NEUTRAL (N).
3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug
unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette
lighter, or accessory power outlets, if you have this
option. Turn off all lamps that aren't needed as well
as radios. This will avoid sparks and help to save
both batteries. In addition, it could save your radio!
NOTICE:
If you leave your radio on, it could be badly
damaged. The repair wouldn't be covered by
your warranty.
CAUTION:
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.
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6-61
Air Conditioning Refrigerants
Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same.
If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs
refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used.
If you're not sure, ask your dealer.
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement part numbers listed in this section are
based on the latest information available at the time of
printing, and are subject to change. If a part listed in this
manual is not the same as the part used in your vehicle
when it was built, or if you have any questions, please
contact your dealer.
Oil Filter PF52. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Cleaner Filter A1163C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PCV Valve CV769C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Transmission Filter Kit 24200796. . . . . .
Spark Plugs 41
-932 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel Filter GF481. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield Wiper Blade Trico (20 inches/50.8 cm). .
Backglass Wiper Blade Trico (14 inches/35.6 cm). . .
Vehicle Dimensions*
Wheelbase 107.0 inches (271.8 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Length 180.9 inches (459.5 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Height 63.2 inches (160.5 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Width 67.6 inches (171.7 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front Tread 57.3 inches (145.4 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Tread 55.1 inches (139.9 cm). . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
*Figures reflect base equipment only.
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8-11
CURRENT PUBLICATIONS FOR 1999 OLDSMOBILE
SERVICE MANUALS
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information
on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes,
electrical, steering, body, etc.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $90.00
TRANSMISSION, TRANSAXLE, TRANSFER CASE
UNIT REPAIR MANUAL
This manual provides information on unit repair service
procedures, adjustments and specifications for the
1999 GM transmissions, transaxles and transfer cases.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $50.00
SERVICE BULLETINS
Service Bulletins give technical service information needed
to knowledgeably service General Motors cars and trucks.
Each bulletin contains instructions to assist in the
diagnosis and service of your vehicle.OWNER'S INFORMATION
Owner publications are written directly for Owners and
intended to provide basic operational information about the
vehicle. The owner's manual will include the Maintenance
Schedule for all models.
In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner's Manual and
Warranty Booklet.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $15.00
Without Portfolio: Owner's Manual only.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $10.00
CURRENT & PAST MODEL ORDER FORMS
Service Publications are available for current and past
model GM vehicles. To request an order form, please
specify year and model name of the vehicle.
PLEASE COMPLETE THE ORDER FORM SHOWN ON
THE FOLLOWING PAGE AND MAIL TO:
Helm, Incorporated P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207OR ORDER TOLL FREE: 1-800-551-4123
Monday-Friday 8:00 AM ± 6:00 PM Eastern Time
For Credit Card Orders Only (VISA±MasterCard±Discover)
1999 OLDSMOBILE SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION
The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out
the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order,
or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.)
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8-12
PUBLICATION FORM
NUMBEROrders will be mailed within 10 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for postal
service. If further information is needed, write to the address shown below or call
1-800-551-4123. Material cannot be returned for credit without packing slip with return
information within 30 days of delivery. On returns, a re-stocking fee may be applied
against the original order. ORDER TOLL FREE
(NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only)1-800-551-4123(Monday-Friday 8:00 AM ± 6:00 PM EST)
FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927
Service Manual
NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the
name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent.
Mail completed order form to:
HELM, INCORPORATED P.O. Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207
For purchases outside U.S.A. please write to the above address for quotation.
1999$90.00
1999
$50.00
1999
$15.00
1999
$10.00
TOTAL MATERIAL
Michigan Purchasers
U.S. Order Processing$5.00
Canadian Postage
GRAND TOTAL
add 6% sales tax
(See Note Below)
GM-OLD-ORD99 *(Prices are subject to change without notice and without incurring
obligation. Allow ample time for delivery.)Note to Canadian Customers: All listed prices are quoted in U.S. funds. Canadian residents
are to make checks payable in U.S. funds. To cover Canadian postage, add $11.50 plus the
U.S. order processing.
(CUSTOMER'S NAME) (ATTENTION)
(STREET ADDRESSÐNO P.O. BOX NUMBERS)
(CITY) (ZIP CODE)
DAYTIME TELEPHONE NO.(STATE)
AREA CODE
( )P
Check or Money
Order payable to
Helm, Inc. (USA funds
only Ð
do not send cash.)
VISA
Discover
Account
Number:
Expiration
Date mo/yr:
CUSTOMER SIGNATURE
S
ITEM DESCRIPTIONNAME YEAR VEHICLE MODEL
QTY.PRICE
EACH*TOTAL
PRICE1
9
9
9
G
M
H
I
P
T
OA
Y
M
E
N
T
Owner's Manual Without Portfolio Owner's Manual In Portfolio Car & Light Truck
Transmission Unit Repair
MasterCard
Check here if your billing address
is different from your shipping
address shown.
PUBLICATION FORM
NUMBER
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9-6
Larger Children 1-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leaving Your Vehicle 2-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running 2-22 . . . . . . .
Liftgate 2-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Release 2-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote Release 2-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lighter 2-48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lights
Anti
-Lock Brake System Warning 2-62, 4-7 . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake System Warning 2-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Charging System 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Gages 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gate Ajar 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Fuel 2-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Safety Belt Reminder 1-9, 2-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security Warning 2-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service AWD 2-67 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service Engine Soon 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading Your Vehicle 4-41 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading Your Vehicle for Off-Road Driving 4-15 . . . . . . . . . .
Locking Rear Axle 2-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lockout Prevention 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lockout Switch 2-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Locks
Door 2
-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition Transmission Check 7-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Key Lock Cylinder Service 7-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Door 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear Door Security 2-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loss of Control 4-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Low Fuel Light 2-68 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lubricants and Fluids 6-51, 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lubrication Service, Body 7
-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage Carrier 2-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lumbar Controls 1-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Record 7-47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance Schedule 7-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Long Trip/Highway 7-6, 7-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Owner Checks and Services 7-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Periodic Maintenance Inspections 7-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants 7-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scheduled Maintenance Services 7-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Short Trip/City 7-5, 7-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance, Underbody 6-51, 7-43 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Maintenance When Trailer Towing 4-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Malfunction Indicator Lamp 2-63 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Passenger Seat 1-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Memory Seats 1-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Methanol 6-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mirrors 2-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside Electrochromic Rearview 2-39 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside 2-40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visor Vanity 2-49 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mode Button 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Model Reference iii. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mountain Roads 4
-35 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multifunction Lever 2-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Net, Convenience 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Neutral 2-19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
New Vehicle ªBreak-Inº 2-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Night Vision 4-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . .