Switching Off the Vehicle When It
Is Moving
WARNING
Switching off the engine when the
vehicle is still moving will result in a
loss of brake and steering assistance.
The steering will not lock, but higher effort
will be required. When the ignition is
switched off, some electrical circuits,
including air bags, warning lamps and
indicators may also be off. If the ignition
was turned off accidentally, you can shift
into neutral (N) and re-start the engine. Vehicles with an Ignition Key
1. Move the transmission selector lever
to position N and use the brakes to
bring your vehicle to a safe stop.
2. When your vehicle has stopped, move the transmission selector lever to
position
P and turn the key to position
0.
3. Apply the parking brake.
Vehicles with Keyless Start
1. Move the transmission selector lever to position
N and use the brakes to
bring your vehicle to a safe stop.
2. When your vehicle has stopped, move the transmission selector lever to
position
P.
3. Press and hold the button for one second, or press it three times within
two seconds.
4. Apply the parking brake. Guarding Against Exhaust Fumes WARNING
If you smell exhaust fumes inside
your vehicle, have your vehicle
checked by your authorized dealer
immediately. Do not drive your vehicle if
you smell exhaust fumes. Carbon
monoxide is present in exhaust fumes.
Take precautions to avoid its dangerous
effects. Important Ventilating Information
If you stop your vehicle and leave it idling
for long periods, we recommend that you
do one of the following:
•
Open the windows at least
1 in
(2.5 cm).
• Set your climate control to outside air.
ENGINE BLOCK HEATER
(If
Equipped) WARNINGS
Failure to follow engine block heater
instructions could result in property
damage or serious personal injury.
Do not use your heater with
ungrounded electrical systems or
two-pronged adapters. There is a risk
of electrical shock. Do not fully close the hood, or allow
it to drop under its own weight when
using the engine block heater. This
could damage the power cable and may
cause an electrical short resulting in fire,
injury and property damage. Note:
The heater is most effective when
outdoor temperatures are below 0°F
(-18°C).
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The heater acts as a starting aid by
warming the engine coolant. This allows
the climate control system to respond
quickly. The equipment includes a heater
element (installed in the engine block) and
a wire harness. You can connect the
system to a grounded 120-volt AC
electrical source.
We recommend that you do the following
for a safe and correct operation:
•
Use a 16-gauge outdoor extension cord
that is product certified by
Underwriter ’s Laboratory (UL) or
Canadian Standards Association
(CSA). This extension cord must be
suitable for use outdoors, in cold
temperatures, and be clearly marked
Suitable for Use with Outdoor
Appliances. Do not use an indoor
extension cord outdoors. This could
result in an electric shock or become a
fire hazard.
• Use as short an extension cord as
possible.
• Do not use multiple extension cords.
• Make sure that when in operation, the
extension cord plug and heater cord
plug connections are free and clear of
water. This could cause an electric
shock or fire.
• Make sure your vehicle is parked in a
clean area, clear of combustibles.
• Make sure the heater, heater cord and
extension cord are firmly connected.
• Check for heat anywhere in the
electrical hookup once the system has
been operating for approximately 30
minutes. •
Make sure the system is unplugged and
properly stowed before starting and
driving your vehicle. Make sure the
protective cover seals the prongs of the
block heater cord plug when not in use.
• Make sure the heater system is
checked for proper operation before
winter.
Using the Engine Block Heater
Make sure the receptacle terminals are
clean and dry prior to use. Clean them with
a dry cloth if necessary.
The heater uses 0.4 to 1.0 kilowatt-hours
of energy per hour of use. The system does
not have a thermostat. It achieves
maximum temperature after
approximately three hours of operation.
Using the heater longer than three hours
does not improve system performance and
unnecessarily uses electricity.
AUTOMATIC ENGINE
SHUTDOWN
For vehicles with a keyless ignition, this
automatically shuts down your vehicle if
it has been idling for an extended period.
The ignition also turns off to save battery
power. Before your vehicle shuts down, a
message appears in the information
display showing a timer counting down. If
you do not intervene within 30 seconds,
your vehicle shuts down. Start your vehicle
as normal.
Automatic Engine Shutdown Override
Note: You cannot permanently switch off
the automatic shutdown. When you switch
it off temporarily, it turns on at the next
ignition cycle.
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You can stop the shutdown, or reset the
timer, at any point before the 30-second
countdown has expired by doing any of the
following:
•
Interacting with your vehicle, for
example pressing the brake or
accelerator pedal.
• Disabling the shutdown using the
information display. See Information
Displays (page 93).
• Pressing the
OK or RESET button
during the 30-second countdown.
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HYBRID VEHICLE OPERATION
This hybrid vehicle combines electric and
gasoline propulsion to provide
breakthrough performance and improved
efficiency.
Familiarizing yourself with these unique
characteristics will provide an optimal
driving experience from your new vehicle.
Note:
You may notice higher engine speeds
upon start-up. This temporary condition is
normal and necessary to heat up the cabin
and minimize emissions.
Starting: When you start your vehicle, a
green ready indicator light will
appear in the lower right portion
of the instrument cluster and a ready to
drive message will appear in the middle of
the left cluster screen, letting you know
that your vehicle is ready for driving.
The engine may not start because this
vehicle is equipped with silent key start.
This fuel saving feature allows your vehicle
to be ready –to–drive without requiring the
gas engine to be running. This indicator will
remain on while your vehicle is on, whether
the engine is running or not to indicate your
vehicle is capable of movement (using its
electric motor, engine, or both). Typically,
the engine will not start unless the vehicle
is cold, a climate control change is
requested, or the accelerator is pressed.
Driving:
The gas engine automatically starts and
stops to provide power when needed and
to save fuel when not needed. While
coasting at low speeds, coming to a stop,
or standing, the gas engine normally shuts
down and your vehicle operates in
electric-only mode. Conditions that may cause the engine to
start up or remain running include:
•
Considerable vehicle acceleration.
• Vehicle speed above 85 mph
(137 km/h). However, the maximum
speed for electric-only operation may
be lower while driving in hot
temperatures or on hilly terrain.
• Ascending a hill.
• Charge level of high voltage battery is
low.
• Very high or low outside temperature
(to provide system cooling or heating).
For Energi vehicles, climate control
demands by passengers may not
directly cause the engine to run. This
only occurs when the high voltage
battery charge is low, or if the outside
temperature is cold enough to require
the engine to provide additional heat
for the cabin.
• Engine not warm enough to provide
passenger requested cabin
temperature.
Stopping:
The gas engine may shut off to conserve
fuel as you come to a stop. Restarting your
vehicle is not required. Simply step on the
accelerator when you are ready to drive.
Transmission Operation:
Due to the technologically advanced,
electronically-controlled continuously
variable transaxle, you will not feel shift
changes like those of a non-hybrid vehicle.
Note: Since engine speed is controlled by
the transmission, it may seem elevated at
times. This is normal hybrid operation and
helps deliver fuel efficiency and
performance.
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Neutral:
It is not recommended to idle the vehicle
in neutral (N) for an extended period of
time because this will discharge your high
voltage battery and decrease fuel
economy. The engine will not start or stop,
and cannot provide power to the hybrid
system in neutral (N).
Low:
Low (L) is designed to mimic the enhanced
engine braking available in non-hybrid
vehicles. Low gear will produce high engine
speeds to provide necessary engine
braking. This is normal and will not damage
your vehicle. In low gear, the gas engine
will remain on more often than in drive (D).
Reverse:
In reverse (R), vehicle speed is limited to
22 mph (35 km/h).
Battery:
Your hybrid is equipped with a high voltage
battery. A cool battery maintains battery
life and provides the best possible
performance. The high voltage battery is
cooled by cabin air drawn from vent holes
in the trim panels behind the rear seats.
Avoid placing objects at the vent holes that
block airflow to the high voltage battery.
Engine:
The engine speed in your hybrid is not
directly tied to your vehicle speed. Your
vehicle's engine and transmission are
designed to deliver the power you need at
the most efficient engine speed. During
heavy accelerations, your hybrid may reach
high engine speeds (up to 6000 RPM). In prolonged mountainous driving, you may
see the engine speed changing without
your input. This is intentional and maintains
the battery charge level. You may also
notice during extended downhill driving
that your engine continues to run instead
of shutting off.
During this engine braking, the engine stays
on, but it is not using any fuel. You may also
hear a slight whine or whistle when
operating your vehicle. This is the normal
operation of the electric generator in the
hybrid system.
During certain events (such as vehicle
servicing) your low voltage 12-volt battery
may become disconnected or disabled.
Once the battery is reconnected and after
driving the vehicle, the engine may
continue to operate for three to five
seconds after the key is turned to off. This
is a normal condition.
Braking:
Your hybrid is equipped with standard
hydraulic braking and regenerative braking.
Regenerative braking is performed by your
transmission and it captures brake energy
and stores it in your high voltage battery.
Driving to Optimize Fuel Economy
Note:
Having your engine running is not
always an indication of inefficiency. In some
cases, it is actually more efficient than
driving in electric mode.
Your fuel economy should improve
throughout your hybrid's break-in period.
As with any vehicle, your driving habits and
accessory usage can significantly impact
your fuel economy. For best results, keep
in mind these tips:
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ECO Cruise
Note:
ECO Cruise is available as a separate
feature on Energi vehicles only. On non
plug-in vehicles it is included in EcoSelect.
This feature saves vehicle energy by
relaxing acceleration compared to
standard cruise control. For example, your
vehicle may temporarily lose speed when
going uphill. When set to on, ECO appears
in the information display when cruise
control is on.
You can switch it on or off in through the
information display. See General
Information (page 93). Settings
ECO Cruise
Driver Assist
Low Engine Use
The low engine use mode is equipped on
Energi models only. The Low Engine Use
mode maintains proper engine lubrication
at sufficient temperature, and will activate
automatically when you drive your vehicle
with limited engine operation. When your
vehicle is in low engine use mode, your
vehicle will automatically run the engine
as necessary. Note:
If your vehicle is in low engine use
mode when you start your vehicle, a
message will appear in the information
display. See
Information Messages (page
101).
If you select the EV Now mode while the
vehicle is in the low engine use mode, EV
Now mode will be suspended for as long
as you are in low engine use mode. The low
engine use mode will resume the next time
you start your vehicle and will
automatically stop when no longer needed.
Note: Cold temperatures will affect the
engine warm up time and the low engine
use mode may operate more frequently.
Note: An oil change is not required but gives
you the option of not running a low engine
use cycle. Resetting the oil life monitoring
system will suspend the low engine use
mode.
Fuel Freshness
See
Fuel Quality (page 144).
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System Warnings
If the fuel filler inlet does not close properly
or if you do not fully close the fuel filler
door, a service engine warning lamp
appears in the information display. At the
next opportunity, do the following:
1. Safely pull off the road.
2. When your vehicle has stopped, shift
into park (P) and switch the ignition
off.
3. Press the refueling button on the center
console.
4. Fully open the fuel tank filler door until
it engages and remove any visible
debris from the fuel filler inlet.
5. Insert a fuel filler nozzle or the fuel filler
funnel, provided with your vehicle,
several times to dislodge any debris
and allow the inlet to close properly.
6. Fully close the fuel filler door until it clicks shut. This permits the fuel
system to function correctly.
If this action corrects the problem, the
message may not reset immediately. It
may take several driving cycles for the
message to turn off. A driving cycle
consists of an engine start-up (after four
or more hours with the engine off) followed
by city and highway driving. Continuing to
drive with the message on may cause the
service engine soon lamp to turn on as
well.
Using the Manual Fuel Filler Door
Release Lever
The manual fuel filler door release lever is
in the luggage compartment on the right
side behind a panel.
When using the manual fuel filler door
release lever to access the fuel filler inlet,
do the following:
1. When your vehicle has stopped, shift into park (P) and switch the ignition on. 2. Remove the panel located in luggage
compartment on the right side. 3. Locate the manual fuel filler door
release lever. 4. Pull the manual fuel filler door release
lever.
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4. Driving through deep water
—the
electrical system may be wet.
You can correct these temporary
malfunctions by filling the fuel tank with
good quality fuel, properly closing the fuel
fill inlet or letting the electrical system dry
out. After three driving cycles without these
or any other temporary malfunctions
present, the service engine soon indicator
should stay off the next time you start the
engine. A driving cycle consists of a cold
engine startup followed by mixed city and
highway driving. No additional vehicle
service is required.
If the service engine soon indicator remains
on, have your vehicle serviced at the first
available opportunity. Although some
malfunctions detected by the OBD-II may
not have symptoms that are apparent,
continued driving with the service engine
soon indicator on can result in increased
emissions, lower fuel economy, reduced
engine and transmission smoothness and
lead to more costly repairs.
Readiness for Inspection and
Maintenance (I/M) Testing
Some state and provincial and local
governments may have
Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) programs
to inspect the emission control equipment
on your vehicle. Failure to pass this
inspection could prevent you from getting
a vehicle registration. If the service engine soon
indicator is on or the bulb does
not work, your vehicle may need
service. See On-Board Diagnostics. Your vehicle may not pass the I/M test if
the service engine soon indicator is on or
not working properly (bulb is burned out),
or if the OBD-II system has determined
that some of the emission control systems
have not been properly checked. In this
case, the vehicle is not ready for I/M
testing.
If the vehicle
’s engine or transmission has
just been serviced, or the battery has
recently run down or been replaced, the
OBD-II system may indicate that the
vehicle is not ready for I/M testing. To
determine if the vehicle is ready for I/M
testing, turn the ignition key to the on
position for 15 seconds without cranking
the engine. If the service engine soon
indicator blinks eight times, it means that
the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing; if
the service engine soon indicator stays on
solid, it means that your vehicle is ready
for I/M testing.
The OBD-II system checks the emission
control system during normal driving. A
complete check may take several days.
If the vehicle is not ready for I/M testing,
you can perform the following driving cycle
consisting of mixed city and highway
driving:
1. 15 minutes of steady driving on an expressway or highway followed by 20
minutes of stop-and-go driving with at
least four 30-second idle periods.
2. Allow your vehicle to sit for at least eight hours with the ignition off. Then,
start the vehicle and complete the
above driving cycle. The vehicle must
warm up to its normal operating
temperature. Once started, do not turn
off the vehicle until the above driving
cycle is complete.
If the vehicle is still not ready for I/M
testing, you need to repeat the above
driving cycle.
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