PASS-Key®III+
The PASS-Key®III+ system operates on a radio
frequency subject to Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry
Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful
interference.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation.
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry
Canada. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference.
2. This device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may
cause undesired operation of the device.
Changes or modi cations to this system by other
than an authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.
PASS-Key
®III+ uses a radio frequency
transponder in the key that matches a decoder
in your vehicle.
PASS-Key®III+ Operation
Your vehicle has the PASS-Key®III+
(Personalized Automotive Security System)
theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key
®III+ is a
passive theft-deterrent system. This means you do
not have to do anything special to arm or disarm
the system. It works when you insert or remove the
key from the ignition.
When the PASS-Key
®III+ system senses that
someone is using the wrong key, it prevents the
vehicle from starting. Anyone using a trial-and-error
method to start the vehicle will be discouraged
because of the high number of electrical key codes.
When trying to start the vehicle if the engine does
not start and the SECURITY light comes on, the
key may have a damaged transponder. Turn the
ignition off and try again.
If the engine still does not start, and the key
appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key.
Also, check the fuse. SeeFuses on page 415.Ifthe
engine still does not start with the other key, your
vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the
rst key may be faulty. See your dealer who can
service the PASS-Key
®III+ and have a new key
made. In an emergency, contact Roadside
Assistance.
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It is possible for the PASS-Key®III+ decoder
to “learn” the transponder value of a new or
replacement key. Up to 10 additional keys may
be programmed for the vehicle. The following
procedure is for programming additional keys only.
If all the currently programmed keys are lost or
do not operate, you must see your dealer or a
locksmith who can service PASS-Key
®III+ to have
keys made and programmed to the system.
See your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to get a new key blank that is cut
exactly as the ignition key that operates the system.
To program the new key do the following:
1. Verify that the new key has
1stamped on it.
2. Insert the already programmed key in the
ignition and start the engine. If the engine
will not start, see your dealer for service.
3. After the engine has started, turn the key to
OFF, and remove the key.4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to
the ON position within ve seconds of
removing the original key.
5. The SECURITY light will turn off once the key
has been programmed.
6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys
are to be programmed.
If you are ever driving and the SECURITY light
comes on and stays on, you may be able to restart
your engine if you turn it off. Your PASS-Key
®III+
system, however, is not working properly and must
be serviced by your dealer. Your vehicle is not
protected by the PASS-Key
®III+ system at
this time.
If you lose or damage your PASS-Key
®III+ key,
see your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to have a new key made.
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Starting and Operating Your
Vehicle
New Vehicle Break-In
Notice:Your vehicle does not need an
elaborate break-in. But it will perform better in
the long run if you follow these guidelines:
Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast
or slow, for the rst 500 miles (805 km). Do
not make full-throttle starts. Do not exceed
5,000 engine rpm. Avoid downshifting to
brake, or slow, the vehicle.
Avoid making hard stops for the rst
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time
your new brake linings are not yet broken
in. Hard stops with new linings can mean
premature wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this breaking-in guideline every time
you get new brake linings.
Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See
Towing a Trailer on page 296for the trailer
towing capabilities of your vehicle and more
information.Following break-in, engine speed and load can
be gradually increased.
Ignition Positions
With the key in the
ignition switch, you can
turn it to four different
positions.
Notice:Using a tool to force the key from the
ignition switch could cause damage or break
the key. Use the correct key and turn the key
only with your hand. Make sure the key is in all
the way. If none of this works, then your vehicle
needs service.
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9(OFF):This is the only position from which
you can remove the key. For a vehicle with an
automatic transaxle, the shift lever must be in
PARK (P) with the ignition in OFF to remove the
key. For a vehicle with a manual transaxle, the shift
lever must be in REVERSE (R) to remove the key.
A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s
door while the ignition is off and the key is in the
ignition.
ACC (Accessory):This position unlocks the
transaxle. It also lets you use things like the radio
and windshield wipers while the engine is not
running. To use ACC, turn the key clockwise to the
rst position. Use this position if your vehicle must
be pushed or towed. SeeRecreational Vehicle
Towing on page 294.
Never try to push-start your vehicle, unless it has a
manual transaxle.R(ON):This position is where the key returns to
after you start the engine and release the key. The
ignition switch will stay in this position while the
engine is running. But even while the engine is not
running, you can use ON to operate your electrical
accessories and to display some instrument
panel warning lights. Use the ON position for
push-starting a vehicle with a manual transaxle.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key in
the ACC or ON position with the engine off. You
may not be able to start your vehicle if the battery
is allowed to drain for an extended period of time.
/(START):This position starts the engine. When
the engine starts, release the key. The ignition
switch will return to the ON position for normal
driving.
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Starting the Engine
To place the transaxle in the proper gear:
Automatic Transaxle
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in
any other position -- this is a safety feature.
To restart when you are already moving, use
NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice:Shifting into PARK (P) with the vehicle
moving could damage the transaxle. Shift into
PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
Manual Transaxle
The shift lever should be in the NEUTRAL position
and the parking brake engaged. Hold the clutch
pedal to the oor and start the engine. Your vehicle
will not start if the clutch pedal is not all the way
down. That is a safety feature.
Starting Procedure
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn
the ignition key to START. When the engine
starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will
go down as your engine gets warm. Do not
race the engine immediately after starting it.
Operate the engine and transaxle gently to
allow the oil to warm up and lubricate all
moving parts.
Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled
Cranking System. This feature assists in
starting the engine and protects components.
If the ignition key is turned to the START
position, and then released when the engine
begins cranking, the engine will continue
cranking for a few seconds or until the
vehicle starts. If the engine does not start
and the key is held in START for many
seconds, cranking will be stopped after
15 seconds to prevent cranking motor damage.
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To prevent gear damage, this system also
prevents cranking if the engine is already
running. Engine cranking can be stopped by
turning the ignition switch to the ACC or OFF
position.
Notice:Cranking the engine for long periods of
time, by returning the key to the START position
immediately after cranking has ended, can
overheat and damage the cranking motor,
and drain the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds
between each try, to allow the cranking motor to
cool down.
2. If the engine does not start after 5-10 seconds,
especially in very cold weather (below 0°F
or−18°C), it could be ooded with too much
gasoline. Try pushing the accelerator pedal all
the way to the oor and holding it there as you
hold the key in START for up to a maximum of
15 seconds. Wait at least 15 seconds between
each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool
down. When the engine starts, let go of the
key and accelerator. If the vehicle starts brie y
but then stops again, do the same thing.This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.
Do not race the engine immediately after
starting it. Operate the engine and transaxle
gently until the oil warms up and lubricates
all moving parts.
Notice:Your engine is designed to work with
the electronics in your vehicle. If you add
electrical parts or accessories, you could
change the way the engine operates. Before
adding electrical equipment, check with
your dealer. If you do not, your engine might
not perform properly. Any resulting damage
would not be covered by your vehicle’s
warranty.
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Engine Coolant Heater
Your vehicle may have this feature. In very cold
weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant
heater can provide easier starting and better fuel
economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the
coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum
of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At
temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant
heater is not required. Your vehicle may also have
an internal thermostat in the plug end of the cord.
This will prevent operation of the engine coolant
heater when the temperature is at or above
0°F (−18°C) as noted on the cord.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
On the 2.4L L4 ECOTEC
®engine, the engine
coolant heater cord is located near the air
cleaner box on the passenger’s side of the
engine compartment. On the 3.5L, 3.6L and
3.9L V6 engines, the engine coolant heater
cord is located on the driver’s side around
the battery box. SeeEngine Compartment
Overview on page 318for more information
on location.3. Plug the cord into a normal, grounded
110-volt AC outlet.
{CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded
outlet could cause an electrical shock.
Also, the wrong kind of extension cord
could overheat and cause a re. You
could be seriously injured. Plug the cord
into a properly grounded three-prong
110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will not
reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug
and store the cord as it was before to keep it
away from moving engine parts. If you do
not, it could be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant
heater plugged in? The answer depends
on the outside temperature, the kind
of oil you have, and some other things.
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Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that
you contact your dealer in the area where you will
be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you
the best advice for that particular area.
Automatic Transaxle Operation
Your automatic transaxle has a shift lever located
on the console between the seats.
PARK (P):This position locks your front wheels.
It is the best position to use when you start
the engine because your vehicle cannot move
easily.
{CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle
if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P)
with the parking brake rmly set. Your
vehicle can roll.
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine
is running unless you have to. If you have
left the engine running, the vehicle can
move suddenly. You or others could be
injured. To be sure your vehicle will not
move, even when you are on fairly level
ground, always set your parking brake
and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See
Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle)
on page 136. If you are pulling a trailer, see
Towing a Trailer on page 296.
Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P)
before starting the engine. Your vehicle has an
automatic transaxle shift lock control system.
SE ModelGT and GTP Models
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