Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Vehicle Care 277
{Warning
Fans or other moving engine
parts can injure you badly. Keep
your hands away from moving
parts once the engine is running.
5. Connect one end of the redpositive (+) cable to thepositive (+) terminal on thedischarged battery.
6. Connect the other end of thered positive (+) cable to thepositive (+) terminal of the goodbattery.
7. Connect one end of the blacknegative (–)cabletothenegative (–)terminalofthegood battery.
8. Connect the other end of theblack negative (–)cabletothenegative (–)postforthedischarged battery.
9. Start the engine in the vehiclewith the good battery and runthe engine at idle speed for atleast four minutes.
10. Try to start the vehicle that hadthe dead battery. If it will notstart after a few tries, itprobably needs service.
Caution
If the jumper cables are
connected or removed in the
wrong order, electrical shorting
may occur and damage the
vehicle. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Always connect and remove the
jumper cables in the correct order,
making sure that the cables do
not touch each other or other
metal.
Jumper Cable Removal
Reverse the sequence exactly whenremoving the jumper cables.
After starting the disabled vehicleand removing the jumper cables,allow it to idle for several minutes.
Towing the Vehicle
Caution
Incorrectly towing a disabled
vehicle may cause damage. The
damage would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty.
Do not lash or hook to
suspension components. Use the
proper straps around the tires to
secure the vehicle.
Have the vehicle towed on a flatbedcar carrier. A wheel lift tow truckcould damage the vehicle.
Consult your dealer or aprofessional towing service if thedisabled vehicle must be towed.
Recreational Vehicle
Towing
Recreational vehicle towing meanstowing the vehicle behind anothervehicle, such as a motor home. Thetwo most common types ofrecreational vehicle towing are
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
290 Service and Maintenance
frequent checks and services. TheAdditional Required Services -Normal are for vehicles that:
.Carry passengers and cargowithin recommended limits onthe Tire and Loading Informationlabel. SeeVehicle LoadLimits0178.
.Are driven on reasonable roadsurfaces within legal drivinglimits.
.Use the recommended fuel. SeeFuel0207.
Refer to the information in theMaintenance Schedule AdditionalRequired Services - Normal chart.
The Additional Required Services -Severe are for vehicles that are:
.Mainly driven in heavy city trafficin hot weather.
.Mainly driven in hilly ormountainous terrain.
.Frequently towing a trailer.
.Used for high speed orcompetitive driving.
.Used for taxi, police, or deliveryservice.
Refer to the information in theMaintenance Schedule AdditionalRequired Services - Severe chart.
{Warning
Performing maintenance work can
be dangerous and can cause
serious injury. Perform
maintenance work only if the
required information, proper tools,
and equipment are available.
If they are not, see your dealer to
have a trained technician do the
work. SeeDoing Your Own
Service Work0214.
Maintenance
Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
At Each Fuel Stop
.Check the engine oil level. SeeEngine Oil0220.
Once a Month
.Check the tire inflationpressures. SeeTirePressure0256.
.Inspect the tires for wear. SeeTire Inspection0260.
.Check the windshield washerfluid level. SeeWasherFluid0231.
Engine Oil Change
When a:%CHANGE message
displays in the DIC, have the engineoil and filter changed within the next1000km/600mi. If driven under thebest conditions, the engine oil lifesystem may not indicate the needfor vehicle service for up to a year.The engine oil and filter must bechanged at least once a year and
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Service and Maintenance 291
the oil life system must be reset.Yo u r t r a i n e d d e a l e r t e c h n i c i a n c a nperform this work. If the engine oillife system is reset accidentally,service the vehicle within 5 000 km/3,000 mi since the last service.Reset the oil life system when theoil is changed. SeeEngine Oil LifeSystem0222.
Tire Rotation and Required
Services Every 12 000 km/
7,500 mi
Rotate the tires, if recommended forthe vehicle, and perform thefollowing services. SeeTireRotation0261.
.Check engine oil level and oillife percentage. If needed,change engine oil and filter, andreset oil life system. SeeEngineOil0220andEngine Oil LifeSystem0222.
.Check engine coolant level. SeeEngine Coolant0227.
.Check windshield washer fluidlevel. SeeWasher Fluid0231.
.Visually inspect windshield wiperblades for wear, cracking,or contamination. SeeExteriorCare0280.Replacewornordamaged wiper blades. SeeWiper BladeReplacement0236.
.Check tire inflation pressures.SeeTire Pressure0256.
.Inspect tire wear. SeeTireInspection0260.
.Visually check for fluid leaks.
.Inspect engine air cleaner filter.SeeEngine Air Cleaner/Filter0224.
.Inspect brake system. SeeExterior Care0280.
.Visually inspect steering,suspension, and chassiscomponents for damaged, loose,or missing parts or signs ofwear. SeeExterior Care0280.
.Check restraint systemcomponents. SeeSafety SystemCheck064.
.Visually inspect fuel system fordamage or leaks.
.Visually inspect exhaust systemand nearby heat shields forloose or damaged parts.
.Lubricate body components. SeeExterior Care0280.
.Check starter switch. SeeStarterSwitch Check0234.
.Check automatic transmissionshift lock control function. SeeAutomatic Transmission ShiftLock Control FunctionCheck0235.
.Check ignition transmission lock.SeeIgnition Transmission LockCheck0235.
.Check parking brake andautomatic transmission parkmechanism. SeePark Brake andP(Park)MechanismCheck0236.
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
312 Customer Information
Services Provided
.Emergency Fuel Delivery:Delivery of enough fuel for thevehicle to get to the nearestservice station.
.Lock-Out Service:Service tounlock the vehicle if you arelocked out. A remote unlock maybe available if you have OnStar.For security reasons, the drivermust present identificationbefore this service is given.
.Emergency Tow from a PublicRoad or Highway:To w t o t h enearest Chevrolet dealer forwarranty service, or if the vehiclewas in a crash and cannot bedriven. Assistance is not givenwhen the vehicle is stuck in thesand, mud, or snow.
.Flat Tire Change:Service tochange a flat tire with the sparetire. The spare tire, if equipped,must be in good condition andproperly inflated. It is the owner'sresponsibility for the repair orreplacement of the tire if it is notcovered by the warranty.
.Battery Jump Start:Service tojump start a dead battery.
.Tr i p I n t e r r u p t i o n B e n e f i t s a n dAssistance:If your trip isinterrupted due to a warrantyevent, incidental expenses maybe reimbursed within thePowertrain warranty period.Items considered are reasonableand customary hotel, meals,rental car, or a vehicle beingdelivered back to the customer,up to 805 km (500 mi).
Services Not Included in
Roadside Assistance
.Impound towing caused byviolation of any laws.
.Legal fines.
.Mounting, dismounting,or changing of snow tires,chains, or other traction devices.
Service is not provided if a vehicleis in an area that is not accessibleto the service vehicle or is not aregularly traveled or maintainedpublic road, which includes ice andwinter roads. Off-road use is notcovered.
Services Specific to
Canadian-Purchased Vehicles
.Fuel Delivery:Reimbursementis up to 7 liters. If available,diesel fuel delivery may berestricted. Propane and otherfuels are not provided throughthis service.
.Lock-Out Service:Vehicleregistration is required.
.Tr i p I n t e r r u p t i o n B e n e f i t s a n dAssistance:Must be over150 km from where your trip wasstarted to qualify.Pre-authorization, originaldetailed receipts, and a copy ofthe repair orders are required.Once authorization has beenreceived, the RoadsideAssistance advisor will help tomake arrangements and explainhow to receive payment.
.Alternative Service:Ifassistance cannot be providedright away, the RoadsideAssistance advisor may givepermission to get localemergency road service. You willreceive payment, up to $100,
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
322 OnStar
.Obtain and customize the Wi-Fi®
hotspot name or SSID andpassword, if equipped.
PressQto connect to an
Advisor to:
.Verify account information orupdate contact information.
.Get driving directions.
.Receive a Diagnostic check ofthe vehicle's key operatingsystems.
.Receive Roadside Assistance.
.Manage Wi-Fi Settings,if equipped.
Press>to get a priority connection
to an OnStar Advisor available24/7 to:
.Get help for an emergency.
.Be a Good Samaritan orrespond to an AMBER Alert.
.Get assistance in severeweather or other crisis situationsand find evacuation routes.
OnStar Services
Emergency
Emergency Services require anactive, OnStar service plan(excludes Basic Plan). WithAutomatic Crash Response, built-insensors can automatically alert aspecially trained OnStar Advisorwho is immediately connected in tothe vehicle to help.
Press>for a priority connection to
an OnStar Advisor who can contactemergency service providers, directthem to your exact location, andrelay important information.
With OnStar Crisis Assist, speciallytrained Advisors are available24 hours a day, 7 days a week, toprovide a central point of contact,assistance, and information during acrisis.
With Roadside Assistance, Advisorscan locate a nearby service providerto help with a flat tire, a batteryjump, or an empty gas tank.
Security
If equipped, OnStar provides theseservices:
.With Stolen Vehicle Assistance,OnStar Advisors can use GPS topinpoint the vehicle and helpauthorities quickly recover it.
.With Remote Ignition Block™,if equipped, OnStar can blockthe engine from being restarted.
.With Stolen Vehicle Slowdown®,if equipped, OnStar can workwith law enforcement togradually slow the vehicle down.
Theft Alarm Notification
If equipped, if the doors are lockedand the vehicle alarm sounds, anotification by text, e-mail, or phonecall will be sent. If the vehicle isstolen, an OnStar Advisor can workwith authorities to recover thevehicle.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Index 331
IndexA
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187
Add-On Electrical Equipment . . . 211
Additional Information
OnStar®...................... 326
Additional Maintenance
and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297
Adjustments
Lumbar, Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Agreements
Trademarks and License . . . . . 164
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . . . 224
Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166
Air Filter, Passenger
Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Airbag System
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
How Does an Airbag
Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Passenger Sensing System . . . . 71
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
What Will You See after an
Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Airbag System (cont'd)
When Should an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . . . . 67
Airbags
Adding Equipment to the
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Passenger Status Indicator . . . . 111
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Servicing Airbag-Equipped
Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Alarm
Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
All-Season Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Antenna
Multi-band . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Antilock Brake System (ABS) . . . 195
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Appearance Care
Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285
Apple CarPlay and
Android Auto . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
Armrest
Front Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
334 Index
Driving (cont'd)
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . 178
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176
E
Electrical Equipment,
Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Electrical System
Engine Compartment Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 243
Fuses and Circuit Breakers . . . 242
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
Emergency
OnStar®...................... 322
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Check and Service Engine
Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
Compartment Overview . . . . . . . 217
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Coolant Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 226
Engine (cont'd)
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
Oil Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Reduced Power Light . . . . . . . . . 120
Running While Parked . . . . . . . . 190
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Entry Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . . . 319
Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Extended Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189
Extender, Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . 134
Exterior Lighting Battery
Saver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
F
Filter,
Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . 136
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Fluid
Automatic Transmission . . . . . . 223
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Forward Collision Alert
(FCA) System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Forward Collision Alert (FCA)
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Frequency Statement
Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 317
Front Fog Lamp
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Front Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Front Seats
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 207
Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Economy Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Filling a Portable Fuel
Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . . 208
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . .119