Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Driving and Operating 205
Warning (Continued)
closely, FCA may not provide a
warning with enough time to help
avoid a crash. It also may not
provide any warning at all. FCA
does not warn of pedestrians,
animals, signs, guardrails,
bridges, construction barrels,
or other objects. Be ready to take
action and apply the brakes. See
Defensive Driving0172.
FCA can be disabled with the FCAsteering wheel control.
Detecting the Vehicle Ahead
FCA warnings will not occur unlessthe FCA system detects a vehicleahead. When a vehicle is detected,the vehicle ahead indicator willdisplay green. Vehicles may not be
detected on curves, highway exitramps, or hills, due to poor visibility;or if a vehicle ahead is partiallyblocked by pedestrians or otherobjects. FCA will not detect anothervehicle ahead until it is completelyin the driving lane.
{Warning
FCA does not provide a warning
to help avoid a crash, unless it
detects a vehicle. FCA may not
detect a vehicle ahead if the FCA
sensor is blocked by dirt, snow,
or ice, or if the windshield is
damaged. It may also not detect a
vehicle on winding or hilly roads,
or in conditions that can limit
visibility such as fog, rain,
or snow, or if the headlamps or
windshield are not cleaned or in
proper condition. Keep the
windshield, headlamps, and FCA
sensors clean and in good repair.
Collision Alert
When your vehicle approachesanother detected vehicle too rapidly,the red FCA display on top of theinstrument panel to the right of thesteering wheel will flash. Also,several rapid high-pitched beeps willsound from the front. When thisCollision Alert occurs, the brakesystem may prepare for driverbraking to occur more rapidly whichcan cause a brief, mild deceleration.Continue to apply the brake pedalas needed. Cruise control may bedisengaged when the Collision Alertoccurs.
Tailgating Alert
The red FCA display will staycontinuously illuminated when youare following a detected vehicleahead much too closely.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
206 Driving and Operating
Selecting the Alert Timing
The Collision Alert control is on thesteering wheel. Press COLLISIONALERT to set the alert timing to far,medium, near or off. The first buttonpress shows the current controlsetting on the DIC. Additional buttonpresses will change this setting. Thechosen setting will remain until it ischanged and will affect both theCollision Alert and the TailgatingAlert features. The timing of bothalerts will vary based on vehiclespeed. The faster the vehicle speed,the farther away the alert will occur.Consider traffic and weatherconditions when selecting the alert
timing. The range of selectable alerttiming may not be appropriate for alldrivers and driving conditions.
Unnecessary Alerts
FCA may sometimes setunnecessary alerts to turningvehicles, vehicles in other lanes,objects that are not vehicles,or shadows. These alerts arenormal operation and the vehicledoes not need service.
Cleaning the System
If the FCA system does not seem tooperate properly, cleaning theoutside of the windshield in front ofthe rearview mirror may correct theissue.
Lane Departure
Warning (LDW)
If equipped, LDW may help avoidcrashes due to unintentional lanedepartures. It may provide an alert ifthe vehicle is crossing a lanewithout using a turn signal in thatdirection. LDW uses a camera
sensor to detect the lane markingsat speeds of 56 km/h (35 mph) orgreater.
{Warning
The LDW system does not steer
the vehicle. The LDW system
may not:
.Provide enough time toavoid a crash.
.Detect lane markings underpoor weather or visibilityconditions. This can occur ifthe windshield orheadlamps are blocked bydirt, snow, or ice; if they arenot in proper condition; or ifthe sun shines directly intothe camera.
.Detect road edges.
.Detect lanes on winding orhilly roads.
If LDW only detects lane
markings on one side of the road,
it will only warn you when
(Continued)
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/19/16
248 Vehicle Care
FusesUsage
IPC/AOS Instrument panelcluster/Automaticoccupant sensingdisplay
SPARE–
RUN RELAY Run relay
L/GATERELAYLiftgate relay
IRAP RELAY IRAP Relay
TRAILER2 Trailer hitch 2
CLOCK-SPRINGClock spring
HVAC2 HVAC 2
HTDSTR WHLHeated steeringwheel
SPARE–
S/ROOF SW Sunroof switch
CIGAR APO Cigar auxiliarypower outlet
FusesUsage
ESCL Electric steeringcolumn lock
RAP/ACCYRELAYRetainedaccessory power/Accessory Relay
PWR WNDWFRONTFront powerwindows
IRAP ACCY IRAP accessory
BATTCON-NECTOR
Battery connector
Wheels and Tires
Tires
Every new GM vehicle has
high-quality tires made by a
leading tire manufacturer. See
the warranty manual for
information regarding the tire
warranty and where to get
service. For additional
information refer to the tire
manufacturer.
{Warning
.Poorly maintained and
improperly used tires are
dangerous.
.Overloading the tires can
cause overheating as a
result of too much
flexing. There could be a
blowout and a serious
crash. SeeVehicle Load
Limits0178.
(Continued)
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Vehicle Care 267
Caution
The wrong wheel can also cause
problems with bearing life, brake
cooling, speedometer or
odometer calibration, headlamp
aim, bumper height, vehicle
ground clearance, and tire or tire
chain clearance to the body and
chassis.
Used Replacement Wheels
{Warning
Replacing a wheel with a used
one is dangerous. How it has
been used or how far it has been
driven may be unknown. It could
fail suddenly and cause a crash.
When replacing wheels, use a
new GM original equipment
wheel.
Tire Chains
{Warning
Do not use tire chains. There is
not enough clearance. Tire chains
used on a vehicle without the
proper amount of clearance can
cause damage to the brakes,
suspension, or other vehicle
parts. The area damaged by the
tire chains could cause loss of
control and a crash.
Use another type of traction
device only if its manufacturer
recommends it for the vehicle's
tire size combination and road
conditions. Follow that
manufacturer's instructions. To
avoid vehicle damage, drive slow
and readjust or remove the
traction device if it contacts the
vehicle. Do not spin the wheels.
If traction devices are used, install
them on the front tires.
If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow outwhile driving, especially if the tiresare maintained properly. SeeTires0248.Ifairgoesoutofatire,itismuch more likely to leak out slowly.But if there ever is a blowout, hereare a few tips about what to expectand what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tirecreates a drag that pulls the vehicletoward that side. Take your foot offthe accelerator pedal and grip thesteering wheel firmly. Steer tomaintain lane position, and thengently brake to a stop, well off theroad, if possible.
Arearblowout,particularlyonacurve, acts much like a skid andmay require the same correction asused in a skid. Stop pressing theaccelerator pedal and steer tostraighten the vehicle. It may bevery bumpy and noisy. Gently braketo a stop, well off the road,if possible.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
280 Vehicle Care
Dolly Towing from the Front
The vehicle can be towed from thefront using a dolly. To tow thevehicle using a dolly:
1. Attach the dolly to the towvehicle following the dollymanufacturer's instructions.
2. Drive the front wheels onto thedolly.
3. Put an automatic transmissionin P (Park) or a manualtransmission into 1 (First) gear.
4. Set the parking brake andremove the key.
5. Clamp the steering wheel in astraight-ahead position with aclamping device designed fortowing.
6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly.
7. Release the parking brake.
Dolly Towing from the Rear
Caution
To w i n g t h e v e h i c l e f r o m t h e r e a r
could damage it. Also, repairs
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Never have the
vehicle towed from the rear.
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.Use a de-icing agent only whenabsolutely necessary, and have thelocks greased after using. SeeRecommended Fluids andLubricants0300.
Washing the Vehicle
To p r e s e r v e t h e v e h i c l e ' s f i n i s h ,wash it often and out of directsunlight.
Caution
Do not use petroleum-based,
acidic, or abrasive cleaning
agents as they can damage the
vehicle's paint, metal, or plastic
parts. If damage occurs, it would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Approved cleaning
products can be obtained from
(Continued)
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
284 Vehicle Care
Caution
To a v o i d s u r f a c e d a m a g e , d o n o t
use strong soaps, chemicals,
abrasive polishes, cleaners,
brushes, or cleaners that contain
acid on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels. Use only
approved cleaners. Also, never
drive a vehicle with aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels through an
automatic car wash that uses
silicone carbide tire cleaning
brushes. Damage could occur
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Brake System
Visually inspect brake lines andhoses for proper hook-up, binding,leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspectdisc brake pads for wear and rotorsfor surface condition. Inspect drumbrake linings/shoes for wear orcracks. Inspect all other brake parts.
Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect steering,suspension, and chassiscomponents for damaged, loose,or missing parts or signs of wear atleast once a year.
Inspect power steering for properattachment, connections, binding,leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
Visually check constant velocity jointboots and axle seals for leaks.
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and thesteel fuel door hinges, unless thecomponents are plastic. Applyingsilicone grease on weatherstripswith a clean cloth will make themlast longer, seal better, and not stickor squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall,use plain water to flush anycorrosive materials from the
underbody. Take care to thoroughlyclean any areas where mud andother debris can collect.
Do not directly power wash thetransfer case and/or front/rear axleoutput seals. High pressure watercan overcome the seals andcontaminate the fluid. Contaminatedfluid will decrease the life of thetransfer case and/or axles andshould be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged andrequires sheet metal repair orreplacement, make sure the bodyrepair shop applies anti-corrosionmaterial to parts repaired orreplaced to restore corrosionprotection.
Original manufacturer replacementparts will provide the corrosionprotection while maintaining thevehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips andscratches with touch-up materialsavailable from your dealer to avoid
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