Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Keys, Doors, and Windows 37
3. Lift the battery with a flatobject.
4. Remove the battery.
5. Insert the new battery, positiveside toward the back cover.Replace with a CR2032 orequivalent battery.
6. Push the transmitter together.
Remote Vehicle Start
If equipped, this feature allows theengine to be started from outsidethe vehicle.
/:This button will be on the RKEtransmitter if the vehicle has remotestart.
The climate control system will usethe previous settings during aremote start. The rear defog maycome on during remote start basedon cold ambient conditions. Therear fog indicator light does notcome on during remote start.
If the vehicle has heated seats, theymay come on during a remote start.SeeHeated Front Seats056.
Laws in some local communitiesmay restrict the use of remotestarters. For example, some lawsrequire a person using remote startto have the vehicle in view. Checklocal regulations for anyrequirements.
Other conditions can affect theperformance of the transmitter. SeeRemote Keyless Entry (RKE)System028.
Starting the Vehicle
To s t a r t t h e e n g i n e u s i n g t h e r e m o t estart feature:
1. Press and releaseQ.
2. Immediately after completing
Step 1, press and hold/for at
least four seconds or until theturn signal lamps flash. Theturn signal lamps flashingconfirms the request to remotestart the vehicle has beenreceived.
When the engine starts, the parkinglamps will turn on and remain on aslong as the engine is running. Thedoors will be locked and the climatecontrol system may come on.
The engine will continue to run for10 minutes. After 30 seconds,repeat the steps if a 10-minuteextension is desired. Remote startcan be extended only once.
Insert the key and turn it to ON/RUNbefore driving.
Extending Engine Run Time
The engine run time can also beextended by another 10 minutes,if during the first 10 minutesSteps 1 and 2 are repeated whilethe engine is still running. Anextension can be requested,30 seconds after starting. Thisprovides a total of 20 minutes.
When the remote start is extended,the second 10-minute period isadded on to the first 10 minutes foratotalof20minutes.
Amaximumoftworemotestarts,or a single start with an extension,are allowed between ignition cycles.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Instruments and Controls 127
Messages that require immediateaction cannot be cleared until thataction is performed. Clearingmessages does not correct theproblem.
Engine Oil Messages
:% CHANGE
This message displays when theengine oil needs to be changed.When changing the engine oil, besure to reset the Oil Life System.SeeEngine Oil Life System0222,Engine Oil0220,andMaintenanceSchedule0290.
Tire Messages
LF XX, RF XX, LR XX,
or RR XX
Amessagedisplayswhenthetirepressure is low. It shows thelocation of the low tire and theapproximate pressure of the low tire.
If a tire pressure message appears,stop as soon as you can. Inflate thetires by adding air until the tirepressure is equal to the valuesshown on the Tire and LoadingInformation label. SeeTires0248,Vehicle Load Limits0178,andTirePressure0256.
Vehicle
Personalization
Use the audio system controls toaccess the personalization menusfor customizing vehicle features.
The following are all possiblepersonalization features. Dependingon the vehicle, some may not beavailable.
Radio Audio System Controls
1. Touch the desired feature todisplay a list of availableoptions.
2. Touch to select the desiredfeature setting.
3. PressoBACK on the
faceplate or touch0to return
to the previous menu or exit.
Turn the vehicle to ON/RUN toaccess the Settings menu, thenselect SETTINGS from the HomePage on the infotainment systemdisplay.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
176 Driving and Operating
Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or throughmountains is different than drivingon flat or rolling terrain. Tips include:
.Keep the vehicle serviced and ingood shape.
.Check all fluid levels and brakes,tires, cooling system, andtransmission.
.Shift to a lower gear when goingdown steep or long hills.
{Warning
Using the brakes to slow the
vehicle on a long downhill slope
can cause brake overheating, can
reduce brake performance, and
could result in a loss of braking.
Shift the transmission to a lower
gear to let the engine assist the
brakes on a steep downhill slope.
{Warning
Coasting downhill in N (Neutral)
or with the ignition off is
dangerous. This can cause
overheating of the brakes and
loss of steering. Always have the
engine running and the vehicle
in gear.
.Drive at speeds that keep thevehicle in its own lane. Do notswing wide or cross thecenter line.
.Be alert on top of hills;something could be in your lane(e.g., stalled car, accident).
.Pay attention to special roadsigns (e.g., falling rocks area,winding roads, long grades,passing or no-passing zones)and take appropriate action.
Winter Driving
Driving on Snow or Ice
Snow or ice between the tires andthe road creates less traction orgrip, so drive carefully. Wet ice canoccur at about 0 °C (32 °F) whenfreezing rain begins to fall. Avoiddriving on wet ice or in freezing rainuntil roads can be treated.
For Slippery Road Driving:
.Accelerate gently. Acceleratingtoo quickly causes the wheels tospin and makes the surfaceunder the tires slick.
.Turn on Traction Control. SeeTr a c t i o n C o n t r o l / E l e c t r o n i cStability Control0197.
.The Antilock Brake System(ABS) improves vehicle stabilityduring hard stops, but thebrakes should be applied soonerthan when on dry pavement.SeeAntilock Brake System(ABS)0195.
.Allow greater following distanceand watch for slippery spots. Icypatches can occur on otherwise
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Vehicle Care 269
1. Wheel Block (If Equipped)
2. Flat Tire
The following information explainshow to repair or change a tire.
Tire Changing
Removing the Spare Tire and
Tools
The compact spare tire and toolsare located in the storagecompartment in the rear of thevehicle. The jack and tools arestored below the spare tire.
1. Extension
2. Jack
3. Wheel Wrench
4. Strap
To a c c e s s t h e s p a r e t i r e a n d t o o l s :
1. Open the trunk or liftgate. SeeTr u n k ( S e d a n )041orLiftgate(Hatchback)043.
2. Lift the trim cover.
3. Turn the retainercounterclockwise and remove itfrom the compact spare.
4. Remove the compact sparetire. SeeCompact Spare Tire0274for more information.
5. Remove the jack and toolsfrom their container and placethem near the tire beingchanged.
Removing the Flat Tire and
Installing the Spare Tire
1. Do a safety check beforeproceeding. SeeIf a Tire GoesFlat0267.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
Vehicle Care 273
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire
and Tools
{Warning
Storing a jack, a tire, or other
equipment in the passenger
compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or
collision, loose equipment could
strike someone. Store all these in
the proper place.
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools
1. Return the jack and tools totheir original storage location.
2. Replace the trim cover.
3. Place the flat tire, lying flat, inthe rear storage compartment.
If the vehicle is a sedan the flattire should be against the backof the rear seats.
If the vehicle is a hatchbackthe flat tire should be againstthe back of the trunk.
4. Attach one end of the strap toacargotie-downintherearofthe vehicle.
Sedan
Hatchback
5. Route the strap through thewheel, as shown.
6. Attach the other end of thestrap to the other cargotie-down in the rear of thevehicle.
7. Tighten the strap.
Storing the Compact Spare Tireand Tools
Reverse the instructions forremoving the spare tire and tools tostore the compact spare tire.
The compact spare tire is fortemporary use only. Replace thecompact spare tire with a full-sizetire as soon as you can. SeeCompact Spare Tire0274.
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
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
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-10122660) -2017 - crc - 5/13/16
340 Index
System
Forward Collision
Alert (FCA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
T
Ta c h o m e t e r . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 9
Ta i l l a m p s
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
Te x t Te l e p h o n e ( T T Y ) U s e r s . . . . 3 1 0
Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . . . . . 45
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 248
All-Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263
Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
Compact Spare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 274
Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118
Pressure Monitor Operation . . 258
Pressure Monitor System . . . . . 257
Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
Tires (cont'd)
Te r m i n o l o g y a n d D e f i n i t i o n s . . 2 5 3
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 266
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249
To w i n g
General Information . . . . . . . . . . .211
Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . 277
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 277
Traction
Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak®Light . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Traction Control/Electronic
Stability Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Trademarks and License
Agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Transmission
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
Fluid, Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Transportation Program,
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Trunk Ajar Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Turn and Lane-Change
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Turn Signal
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 240
U
Ultrasonic Parking Sensor
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Uniform Tire Quality Grading . . . 264
Up-Shift Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
USB Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Using This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
V
Vehicle
Alarm System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
Identification Number (VIN) . . . 303
Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Personalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Remote Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Service Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . .114