Page 78 of 432

Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
There are several ways to release the hatch/trunk lid.
If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, the shift
lever must be in PARK (P). For manual transmission
vehicles, the parking brake must be set when the ignition
is started for the hatch/trunk release to operate. The
parking brake does not need to be set when the ignition
is off for the hatch/trunk release to operate. SeeParking
Brake on page 2-32.
Press the hatch/trunk
Vlid release button, located on
the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.
The theft-deterrent alarm system must not be armed.
Press the hatch/trunk
}lid release button on
the keyless access transmitter. SeeKeyless Access
System on page 2-5.
Press the hatch/trunk release button located on the rear
of the hatch/trunk lid above the license plate, as long
as you have your transmitter with you.If your vehicle has lost battery power, open the
hatch/trunk using the vehicle key. SeeKeys on page 2-3
for more information. The key lock cylinder is located
on the rear of the hatch/trunk lid above the license plate.
Turn the vehicle key clockwise in the lock.
Closing the Rear Compartment (Coupe)
To assist in closing the rear compartment lid of your
coupe, use the pocket on the underside of the lid on the
passenger’s side of the vehicle. When closing the lid,
lower it until the power pull down latch feature activates
and it will close the rest of the way and latch
automatically.
2-14
Page 89 of 432

Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking
System. This feature assists in starting the engine and
protects components. Once cranking has been
initiated, the engine continues cranking for a few
seconds or until the vehicle starts. If the engine does
not start, cranking automatically stops after 15 seconds
to prevent cranking motor damage. To prevent gear
damage, this system also prevents cranking if the
engine is already running.
Notice:The engine is designed to work with the
electronics in the vehicle. If electrical parts or
accessories are added, you could change the way
the engine operates. Before adding electrical
equipment, check with your dealer/retailer. If you
do not, the engine might not perform properly.
Any resulting damage would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.Stopping Your Engine
If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, move the
shift lever to PARK (P) and press and hold the Acc.
(Off/Accessory) button, located on the instrument panel,
until the engine shuts off. If the shift lever is not in
PARK (P), the engine shuts off and the vehicle goes
into the Accessory Mode. The DIC displays SHIFT TO
PARK. Once the shifter is moved to PARK (P), the
vehicle turns off. If your vehicle has a manual
transmission, it is recommended that you move the
shift lever to REVERSE (R) and set the parking
brake after you turn off the engine by pressing the
Acc. (Off/Accessory) button.
If the keyless access transmitter is not detected inside
the vehicle when it is turned to off, the DIC displays
NO FOB – OFF OR RUN?.
SeeDIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-57for
more information.
2-25
Page 205 of 432

SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM
If this message displays when you are driving, there is a
problem with the Traction Control System (TCS) and
your vehicle is in need of service. See your
dealer/retailer. When this message is displayed, the
system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving
accordingly.
The traction control system (TCS) warning light on the
instrument panel cluster will also turn on and a
chime will sound.
When this message is displayed, the computer
controlled systems will not assist the driver in controlling
the vehicle. Have the system repaired by your
dealer/retailer as soon as possible. Adjust your driving
accordingly. SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-6for more information.
To acknowledge the message, press the RESET button.
SERVICE TRANSMISSION
This message displays when there is a problem with the
transmission. See your dealer/retailer for service.
SERVICE VEHICLE SOON
This message displays and a chime sounds when there
may be an electrical or another system problem with
your vehicle. Have your vehicle checked by your
dealer/retailer if this message keeps appearing.
SET PARK BRAKE FOR SEAT RECALL
If your vehicle has a manual transmission, this
message displays if you try to recall the memory
positions when the ignition is on and the parking brake
is not set. If the vehicle is on, you must set the
parking brake in order for the memory positions to
recall. SeeMemory Seat, Mirrors and Steering Wheel
on page 1-4for more information.
SET PARK BRAKE TO MOVE TOP
If your vehicle has a manual transmission, this message
displays and a chime sounds if you try to operate the
power convertible top without rst setting the parking
brake. Set the parking brake before trying to operate the
power convertible top. SeeConvertible Top (Manual)
on page 2-62orConvertible Top (Power) on page 2-68
for more information.
3-69
Page 253 of 432

Steering
Power Steering
If you lose power steering assist because the engine
stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but
it will take much more effort.
Magnetic Speed Variable Assist
Steering
Your vehicle has a steering system that continuously
adjusts the effort you feel when steering at all vehicle
speeds. It provides ease when parking, yet a rm, solid
feel at highway speeds.
Steering Tips
It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on
the news happen on curves. Here is why:
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to
the same laws of physics when driving on curves.
The traction of the tires against the road surface makes
it possible for the vehicle to change its path when
you turn the front wheels. If there is no traction, inertia
will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If
you have ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you
will understand this.Traction in a curve depends on the condition of the tires
and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is
banked, and your speed. While in a curve, speed is the
one factor you can control.
Suppose you are steering through a sharp curve.
Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control
systems — steering and acceleration — have to do their
work where the tires meet the road. Adding the sudden
acceleration can demand too much of those places. You
can lose control. SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-6.
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on
the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you
want it to go, and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should
adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds
are based on good weather and road conditions. Under
less favorable conditions you will want to go slower.
If you need to reduce speed when approaching a curve,
do it before you enter the curve, while the front wheels
are straight ahead.
Try to adjust the speed so you can drive through the
curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait
to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then
accelerate gently into the straightaway.
Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affect
your vehicle’s performance. SeeAccessories and
Modifications on page 5-3.
4-11