
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Driving and Operating 185
ON/RUN/START (Green IndicatorLight) :This mode is for driving andstarting. With the ignition off and thebrake pedal applied, pressingENGINE START/STOP once willplace the ignition system in ON/RUN/START. Once engine crankingbegins, release the button. Enginecranking will continue until theengine starts. SeeStarting theEngine0185.Theignitionwillthenremain in ON/RUN.
Service Only Mode
This power mode is available forservice and diagnostics, and toverify the proper operation of themalfunction indicator lamp as maybe required for emission inspectionpurposes. With the vehicle off, andthe brake pedal not applied,pressing and holding ENGINESTART/STOP for more thanfive seconds will place the vehicle inService Only Mode. The instrumentsand audio systems will operate asthey do in ON/RUN, but the vehiclewill not be able to be driven. Theengine will not start in Service OnlyMode. Press ENGINE START/STOPagain to turn the vehicle off.
Starting the Engine
Automatic Transmission
Move the shift lever to P (Park) orN(Neutral). To restart the enginewhen the vehicle is already moving,use N (Neutral) only.
Caution
Do not try to shift to P (Park) if the
vehicle is moving. If you do, you
could damage the transmission.
Shift to P (Park) only when the
vehicle is stopped.
Caution
If you add electrical parts or
accessories, you could change
the way the engine operates. Any
resulting damage would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
SeeAdd-On Electrical
Equipment0211.
Manual Transmission
The shift lever should be in Neutraland the parking brake engaged.Hold the clutch pedal to the floorand start the engine.
Starting Procedure
1. With your foot off theaccelerator pedal, turn theignition to START. When theengine cranks, let go of thekey. The idle speed will godown as the engine gets warm.
Caution
Holding the key in START for
longer than 15 seconds at a time
will cause the battery to be
drained much sooner. And the
excessive heat can damage the
starter motor. Wait about
15 seconds between each try to
help avoid draining the battery or
damaging the starter.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Driving and Operating 207
Warning (Continued)
departing the lane on the side
where it has detected a lane
marking. Always keep your
attention on the road and
maintain proper vehicle position
within the lane, or vehicle
damage, injury, or death could
occur. Always keep the
windshield, headlamps, and
camera sensors clean and in
good repair. Do not use LDW in
bad weather conditions.
How the System Works
The LDW camera sensor is on thewindshield ahead of the rearviewmirror.
To t u r n L D W o n a n d o f f , p r e s s@on
the center console. The controlindicator will light when LDW is on.
When LDW is on,@is green if
LDW is available to warn of a lanedeparture. If the vehicle crosses adetected lane marking without using
the turn signal in that direction,@
changes to amber and flashes.Additionally, there will be threebeeps on the right or left, dependingon the lane departure direction.
When the System Does Not
Seem To Work Properly
The system may not detect lanes aswell when there are:
.Close vehicles ahead.
.Sudden lighting changes, suchas when driving through tunnels.
.Banked roads.
If the LDW system is not functioningproperly when lane markings areclearly visible, cleaning thewindshield may help.
LDW alerts may occur due to tarmarks, shadows, cracks in the road,temporary or construction lanemarkings, or other roadimperfections. This is normal systemoperation; the vehicle does not needservice. Turn LDW off if theseconditions continue.
Fuel
GM recommends the use of TOPTIER Detergent Gasoline®to keepthe engine cleaner and reduceengine deposits. Seewww.toptiergas.com for a list of TOPTIER Detergent Gasoline marketersand applicable countries.
Do not use any fuel labeled E85 orFlexFuel. Do not use gasoline withethanol levels greater than 15% byvolume.
Use regular unleaded gasolinemeeting ASTM specification D4814with a posted octane rating of 87 orhigher. Do not use gasoline with a

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Driving and Operating 211
Trailer Towing
General Towing
Information
The vehicle is neither designed norintended to tow a trailer.
Conversions and
Add-Ons
Add-On Electrical
Equipment
{Warning
The Data Link Connector (DLC) is
used for vehicle service and
Emission Inspection/Maintenance
testing. SeeMalfunction Indicator
Lamp (Check Engine Light)011 2.
AdeviceconnectedtotheDLC—
such as an aftermarket fleet or
driver-behavior tracking device—
may interfere with vehicle
systems. This could affect vehicle
operation and cause a crash.
Such devices may also access
information stored in the vehicle’s
systems.
Caution
Some electrical equipment can
damage the vehicle or cause
components to not work and
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Always check
with your dealer before adding
electrical equipment.
Add-on equipment can drain thevehicle's 12-volt battery, even if thevehicle is not operating.
The vehicle has an airbag system.Before attempting to add anythingelectrical to the vehicle, seeServicing the Airbag-EquippedVehicle075andAdding Equipmentto the Airbag-EquippedVehicle075.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
230 Vehicle Care
By this time, the coolant levelinside the coolant surge tankmay be lower. If the level islower, add more of the properDEX-COOL coolant mixture tothe coolant surge tank until thelevel reaches the indicatedlevel mark.
5. Replace the pressure captightly.
Check the level in the coolant surgetank when the cooling system hascooled down. If the coolant is not atthe proper level, repeat Steps 1–3andreinstallthepressurecap.If the coolant still is not at the properlevel when the system cools downagain, see your dealer.
Caution
If the pressure cap is not tightly
installed, coolant loss and
possible engine damage may
occur. Be sure the cap is properly
and tightly secured.
Engine Overheating
The vehicle has an indicator to warnof the engine overheating.
If the decision is made not to lift thehood when this warning appears,get service help right away. SeeRoadside AssistanceProgram0311.
If the decision is made to lift thehood, make sure the vehicle isparked on a level surface.
Then check to see if the enginecooling fan is running. If the engineis overheating, the fan should berunning. If it is not, do not continueto run the engine. Have the vehicleserviced.
Caution
Running the engine without
coolant may cause damage or a
fire. Vehicle damage would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
If Steam Is Coming from the
Engine Compartment
{Warning
Steam from an overheated engine
can burn you badly, even if you
just open the hood. Stay away
from the engine if you see or hear
steam coming from it. Just turn it
off and get everyone away from
the vehicle until it cools down.
Wait until there is no sign of
steam or coolant before you open
the hood.
If you keep driving when the
engine is overheated, the liquids
in it can catch fire. You or others
could be badly burned. Stop the
engine if it overheats, and get out
of the vehicle until the engine
is cool.
If No Steam Is Coming from
the Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning isdisplayed but no steam can be seenor heard, the problem may not be

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
232 Vehicle Care
Caution (Continued)
.Do not mix water withready-to-use washer fluid.Water can cause thesolution to freeze anddamage the washer fluidtank and other parts of thewasher system.
.When using concentratedwasher fluid, follow themanufacturer instructions foradding water.
.Fill the washer fluid tankonly three-quarters full whenit is very cold. This allowsfor fluid expansion iffreezing occurs, which coulddamage the tank if it iscompletely full.
Brakes
Disc brake pads have built-in wearindicators that make a high-pitchedwarning sound when the brake padsare worn and new pads are needed.The sound can come and go or can
be heard all the time when thevehicle is moving, except whenapplying the brake pedal firmly.
{Warning
The brake wear warning sound
means that soon the brakes will
not work well. That could lead to
acrash.Whenthebrakewear
warning sound is heard, have the
vehicle serviced.
Caution
Continuing to drive with worn-out
brake pads could result in costly
brake repair.
Some driving conditions or climatescan cause a brake squeal when thebrakes are first applied or lightlyapplied. This does not meansomething is wrong with the brakes.
Properly torqued wheel nuts arenecessary to help prevent brakepulsation. When tires are rotated,inspect brake pads for wear and
evenly tighten wheel nuts in theproper sequence to torquespecifications. SeeCapacities andSpecifications0304.
Brake pads should be replaced ascomplete sets.
Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedaldoes not return to normal height,or if there is a rapid increase inpedal travel. This could be a signthat brake service may be required.
Replacing Brake System Parts
Always replace brake system partswith new, approved replacementparts. If this is not done, the brakesmay not work properly. The brakingperformance expected can changein many other ways if the wrongreplacement brake parts areinstalled or if parts are improperlyinstalled.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
298 Service and Maintenance
Lamps
Properly working headlamps,taillamps, and brake lamps areimportant to see and be seen onthe road.
.Signs that the headlamps needattention include dimming, failureto light, cracking, or damage.The brake lamps need to bechecked periodically to ensurethat they light when braking.
.With a multi-point inspection,your dealer can check the lampsand note any concerns.
Shocks and Struts
Shocks and struts help aid in controlfor a smoother ride.
.Signs of wear may includesteering wheel vibration, bounce/sway while braking, longerstopping distance, or uneventire wear.
.As part of the multi-pointinspection, trained dealertechnicians can visually inspectthe shocks and struts for signs
of leaking, blown seals,or damage, and can advisewhen service is needed.
Tires
Tires need to be properly inflated,rotated, and balanced. Maintainingthe tires can save money and fuel,and can reduce the risk of tirefailure.
.Signs that the tires need to bereplaced include three or morevisible treadwear indicators; cordor fabric showing through therubber; cracks or cuts in thetread or sidewall; or a bulge orsplit in the tire.
.Trained dealer technicians caninspect and recommend the righttires. Your dealer can alsoprovide tire/wheel balancingservices to ensure smoothvehicle operation at all speeds.Yo u r d e a l e r s e l l s a n d s e r v i c e sname brand tires.
Vehicle Care
To h e l p k e e p t h e v e h i c l e l o o k i n g l i k enew, vehicle care products areavailable from your dealer. For
information on how to clean andprotect the vehicle’sinteriorandexterior, seeInterior Care0285andExterior Care0280.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical forensuring that the tires deliveroptimal wear and performance.
.Signs that the alignment mayneed to be adjusted includepulling, improper vehiclehandling, or unusual tire wear.
.Yo u r d e a l e r h a s t h e r e q u i r e dequipment to ensure properwheel alignment.
Windshield
For safety, appearance, and thebest viewing, keep the windshieldclean and clear.
.Signs of damage includescratches, cracks, and chips.
.Trained dealer technicians caninspect the windshield andrecommend proper replacementif needed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Index 335
Fuel (cont'd)
Requirements, California . . . . . 208
Fuses
Engine Compartment Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . 242
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
G
Gauges
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Ta c h o m e t e r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 9
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Warning Lights and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
General Information
Service and Maintenance . . . . . 289
To w i n g . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 11
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
H
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Hands-Free Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . 136
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Headlamps
Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 237
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . 120
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . 134
Lamps On Reminder . . . . . . . . . 120
Heated
Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Heater
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . 176
Hill Start Assist (HSA) . . . . . . . . . . 197
Home Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
HVAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Hydraulic Clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
I
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . 182, 183
Ignition Transmission Lock
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 235
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
Indicator
Owner Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114
Vehicle Ahead . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Infants and Young Children,
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Instrument Panel
Storage Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
J
Jump Starting - North
America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
336 Index
K
Keyless Entry
Remote (RKE) System . . . . . 29, 31
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
L
Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . . . 250
Lamps
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . 135
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
Exterior Lighting Battery
Saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241
Malfunction Indicator . . . . . . . . . .112
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Lane Departure
Warning (LDW) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206
Lane Departure Warning
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
LATCH System
Replacing Parts after a
Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
LATCH, Lower Anchors and
Te t h e r s f o r C h i l d r e n . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 4
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Lighting
Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Brake System Warning . . . . . . . .114
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Engine Coolant
Te m p e r a t u r e W a r n i n g . . . . . . . . 11 8
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . . .118
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Front Fog Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . 134
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
Lane Departure Warning . . . . . . .116
Low Fuel Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
Operate Pedal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Reduced Engine Power . . . . . . 120
Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . . .110
Service Vehicle Soon . . . . . . . . . .114
StabiliTrak®OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Lights (cont'd)
Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak®...........117
Traction Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Trunk Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Ultrasonic Parking Sensor . . . . .116
Up-Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .115
Warning, Power Steering . . . . . . 115
Load Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Locks
Automatic Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Lockout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . . 119
Lower Anchors and Tethers
for Children (LATCH
System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Lumbar Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
M
Maintenance
Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Maintenance and Care
Additional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . 290