So, it is not a good idea to top off your 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 uid, it can spill on
the engine. The uid will burn if the engine is
hot enough. You or others could be burned,
and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake
uid only when work is done on the brake
and/or clutch hydraulic system.
When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake
warning light will come on. SeeBrake System Warning
Light on page 3-27.
What to Add
When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake
fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container
only. SeePart D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
on page 6-25.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 uid in your brake
system, your brakes may not work well, or they
may not even work at all. This could cause a
crash. Always use the proper brake uid.
Notice:
Using the wrong uid can badly damage brake
system parts. For example, just a few drops of
mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your
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 uid.
If you spill brake uid on your vehicle’s painted
surfaces, the paint nish can be damaged. Be
careful not to spill brake uid on your vehicle. If
you do, wash it off immediately. SeeWashing
Your Vehicle on page 5-69.
5-33
Brake Wear
Your vehicle has front disc brakes and may have rear
drum brakes or rear disc 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 firmly.
{CAUTION:
The brake wear warning sound means that soon
your brakes will not work well. That could lead
to an accident. When you hear the brake wear
warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.
Notice:Continuing to drive with worn-out brake
pads could result in costly brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake
squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied.
This does not mean something is wrong with your 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 specifications.If you have rear drum brakes, they 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.
SeeBrake System Inspection on page 6-24.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to
normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in
pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble.
Brake Adjustment
Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc
brakes adjust for wear. If you rarely make a moderate or
heavier stop, then your brakes might not adjust correctly.
If you drive in that way, then — very carefully — make a
few moderate brake stops about every 1,000 miles
(1 600 km), so your brakes will adjust properly.
If your brake pedal goes down farther than normal, your
rear drum brakes may need adjustment. Adjust them by
backing up and firmly applying the brakes a few times.
5-34
Jump Starting
If your battery has run down, you may want to use
another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your
vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely.
{CAUTION:
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 your vehicle that would not be covered
by your warranty.
Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it
will not work, and it could damage your vehicle.
1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt
battery with a negative ground system.Notice:If the other vehicle’s system is not a 12-volt
system with a negative ground, both vehicles can
be damaged. Only use vehicles with 12-volt systems
with negative grounds to jump start your vehicle.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables
can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching
each other. If they are, it could cause a ground
connection you do not want. You would not 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 jump start procedure. Put an automatic
transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in
NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake.
Notice:If you leave your radio or other accessories
on during the jump starting procedure, they could
be damaged. The repairs would not be covered
by your warranty. Always turn off your radio and
other accessories when jump starting your vehicle.
3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug
unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette
lighter or the accessory power outlet. Turn off
the radio and all lamps that are not needed. This
will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And
it could save the radio!
5-36
Fuses Usage
LTR Cigar Lighter
HORN,
REAR/FOGHorn, Rear Fog Lamps
RADIO, CLK Audio, Clock
STOP Stop Lamp
TRN/SIG Turn Signal
CLSTR,
HAZRDInstrument Panel Cluster, Hazard
Flasher
CLSTR, CLK Instrument Panel Cluster, Clock
DR/LCK Door Lock, Remote Keyless Entry
BCK/UP Back-Up Lamp
ECM, TCMEngine Control Module,
Transmission Control Module
ECM, TCMEngine Control Module,
Transmission Control Module
WPR, WSWA Wiper, Washer
DIS,
INJECTORDirect Ignition System, Injector
ENG FUSE Engine Fuse
AIRBAG Airbag
HVAC HVAC Blower
ABS Anti-lock Brake System
BLANK Not Used
BLANK Not Used
DIODE (ABS) Anti-lock Brake System DiodeFuses Usage
BLANK Not Used
BLANK Not Used
CLK, RADIO Clock, Audio
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
The engine compartment fuse block is located on the
driver’s side of the vehicle, near the battery. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on page 5-12for more
information on location. To access the fuses, pull out
the top and bottom flaps to release the cover. To
reinstall the cover, push the cover until it is secure.
5-77
At Least Twice a Year
Restraint System Check
Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages
are working properly. Look for any other loose or
damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything
that might keep a safety belt system from doing its
job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts
replaced.
Also look for any opened or broken airbag coverings,
and have them repaired or replaced. (The airbag system
does not need regular maintenance.)
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace
blade inserts that appear worn or damaged or that
streak or miss areas of the windshield. Also see
Windshield and Wiper Blades on page 5-70.
Weatherstrip Lubrication
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold,
damp weather more frequent application may be
required. SeePart D: Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 6-25.
Manual Transaxle Check
It is not necessary to check the transaxle fluid level.
Check for leaks. A fluid leak is the only reason for fluid
loss. Have the system inspected and repaired if
needed.
Automatic Transaxle Check
Check the transaxle fluid level; add if needed. See
Automatic Transaxle Fluid on page 5-19. A fluid loss
may indicate a problem. Check the system and repair if
needed.
Hydraulic Clutch System Check
Check the fluid level in the brake/clutch reservoir. See
Hydraulic Clutch on page 5-21. A fluid loss in this
system could indicate a problem. Have the system
inspected and repaired at once.
6-19
A
Accessories and Modifications............................ 5-3
Accessory Power Outlet(s)...............................3-16
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle.......................................................1-70
Additives, Fuel................................................. 5-6
Add-On Electrical Equipment............................5-74
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine.................................5-17
Air Conditioning..............................................3-18
Airbag
Passenger Status Indicator...........................3-26
Readiness Light..........................................3-32
Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)....7-10
Airbag System................................................1-56
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle...................................................1-70
How Does an Airbag Restrain?......................1-63
Passenger Sensing System...........................1-65
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle..........1-69
What Makes an Airbag Inflate?......................1-63
What Will You See After an Airbag Inflates?....1-64
When Should an Airbag Inflate?....................1-61
Where Are the Airbags?...............................1-59
AM-FM Radio.................................................3-39
Antenna, Fixed Mast.......................................3-71
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)........................... 4-7
Anti-Lock Brake, System Warning Light..............3-34Appearance Care
Aluminum Wheels........................................5-71
Care of Safety Belts....................................5-69
Chemical Paint Spotting...............................5-72
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses....................5-69
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle................5-66
Fabric/Carpet..............................................5-67
Finish Care.................................................5-70
Finish Damage............................................5-72
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic
Surfaces.................................................5-68
Sheet Metal Damage...................................5-72
Tires..........................................................5-71
Underbody Maintenance...............................5-72
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials................5-73
Washing Your Vehicle...................................5-69
Weatherstrips..............................................5-69
Windshield and Wiper Blades........................5-70
Ashtray(s)......................................................3-17
Audio System(s).............................................3-38
AM-FM Radio.............................................3-39
Care of Your CD Player...............................3-71
Care of Your CDs ........................................3-71
Fixed Mast Antenna.....................................3-71
Radio with CD............................3-41, 3-45, 3-52
Radio with Six-Disc CD................................3-61
Understanding Radio Reception.....................3-70
1
Automatic Transaxle
Fluid..........................................................5-19
Operation...................................................2-21
B
Battery..........................................................5-35
Before Leaving on a Long Trip.........................4-19
Brake
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)........................ 4-7
Emergencies................................................ 4-8
Parking......................................................2-26
System Inspection.......................................6-24
System Warning Light..................................3-27
Brakes..........................................................5-32
Braking........................................................... 4-6
Braking in Emergencies..................................... 4-8
Break-In, New Vehicle.....................................2-17
Bulb Replacement...........................................5-40
Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps.............5-42
Halogen Bulbs............................................5-40
Headlamp Aiming........................................5-39
Headlamps.................................................5-40
Replacement Bulbs......................................5-44
Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and
Back-up Lamps........................................5-43
Turn Signal Lamps......................................5-42
Buying New Tires...........................................5-54
C
California Fuel.................................................. 5-5
California Proposition 65 Warning....................... 5-3
Canadian Owners................................................ ii
Capacities and Specifications............................5-80
Carbon Monoxide.............2-9, 2-11, 2-30, 4-22, 4-35
Care of
Safety Belts................................................5-69
Your CD Player...........................................3-71
Your CDs ...................................................3-71
Center Rear Passenger Position, Safety Belts.....1-28
Chains, Tire...................................................5-57
Charging System Light....................................3-33
Check
Engine Light...............................................3-34
Checking Things Under the Hood......................5-10
Chemical Paint Spotting...................................5-72
Child Restraints
Child Restraint Systems...............................1-36
Infants and Young Children...........................1-32
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children..........1-42
Older Children.............................................1-30
Securing a Child Restraint in a
Rear Seat Position...................................1-49
Securing a Child Restraint in the
Right Front Seat Position..........................1-51
Where to Put the Restraint...........................1-40
Cigarette Lighter.............................................3-17
2
I
Ignition Positions.............................................2-18
Immobilizer....................................................2-16
Immobilizer Operation......................................2-16
Infants and Young Children, Restraints...............1-32
Inflation - Tire Pressure...................................5-51
Inspection
Brake System.............................................6-24
Engine Cooling System................................6-24
Exhaust System..........................................6-23
Fuel System...............................................6-23
Part C - Periodic Maintenance.......................6-23
Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle
Boot and Seal.........................................6-23
Instrument Panel
Overview..................................................... 3-4
Instrument Panel (I/P)
Brightness..................................................3-15
Cluster.......................................................3-24
J
Jump Starting.................................................5-36
K
Keyless Entry System....................................... 2-4
Keys............................................................... 2-2
L
Labeling, Tire Sidewall.....................................5-46
Lamps
Dome ........................................................3-16
Exterior......................................................3-13
Fog ...........................................................3-15
LATCH System
Child Restraints...........................................1-42
Liftgate..........................................................2-11
Light
Airbag Readiness........................................3-32
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning...................3-34
Brake System Warning.................................3-27
Charging System.........................................3-33
Cruise Control.............................................3-29
Daytime Running Lamps Indicator..................3-29
Door Ajar...................................................3-38
Fog Lamp ..................................................3-38
Highbeam On.............................................3-29
Hold Mode .................................................3-34
Low Fuel Warning.......................................3-30
6