Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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258 Vehicle Care
the tire. Air pressure is
expressed in kPa (kilopascal)
or psi (pounds per square inch).
Accessory Weight
:The
combined weight of optional
accessories. Some examples of
optional accessories are
automatic transmission, power
windows, power seats, and air
conditioning.
Aspect Ratio
:The relationship
of a tire's height to its width.
Belt
:A rubber coated layer of
cords between the plies and the
tread. Cords may be made from
steel or other reinforcing
materials.
Bead
:The tire bead contains
steel wires wrapped by steel
cords that hold the tire onto
the rim. Bias Ply Tire
:A pneumatic tire
in which the plies are laid at
alternate angles less than
90 degrees to the centerline of
the tread.
Cold Tire Pressure
:The
amount of air pressure in a tire,
measured in kPa (kilopascal)
or psi (pounds per square inch)
before a tire has built up heat
from driving. See Tire Pressure
0 260.
Curb Weight
:The weight of a
motor vehicle with standard and
optional equipment including the
maximum capacity of fuel, oil,
and coolant, but without
passengers and cargo.
DOT Markings
:A code molded
into the sidewall of a tire
signifying that the tire is in
compliance with the U.S.
Department of Transportation
(DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards. The DOT code
includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN), an alphanumeric
designator which can also
identify the tire manufacturer,
production plant, brand, and
date of production.
GVWR
:Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits
0 181.
GAWR FRT
:Gross Axle Weight
Rating for the front axle. See
Vehicle Load Limits 0181.
GAWR RR
:Gross Axle Weight
Rating for the rear axle. See
Vehicle Load Limits 0181.
Intended Outboard Sidewall
:
The side of an asymmetrical tire
that must always face outward
when mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa)
:The metric
unit for air pressure.
Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire
:A
tire used on light duty trucks and
some multipurpose passenger
vehicles.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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286 Vehicle Care
Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Locks
Locks are lubricated at the factory.
Use a de-icing agent only when
absolutely necessary, and have the
locks greased after using. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants0306.
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish,
wash it often and out of direct
sunlight.
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)
Caution (Continued)
your dealer. Follow all
manufacturer directions regarding
correct product usage, necessary
safety precautions, and
appropriate disposal of any
vehicle care product.
Caution
Avoid using high-pressure
washes closer than 30 cm (12 in)
to the surface of the vehicle. Use
of power washers exceeding
8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) can result
in damage or removal of paint
and decals.
Caution
Do not power wash any
component under the hood that
has this
esymbol.
This could cause damage that
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.
If using an automatic car wash,
follow the car wash instructions. The
windshield wiper and rear window
wiper, if equipped, must be off.
Remove any accessories that may
be damaged or interfere with the car
wash equipment.
Rinse the vehicle well, before
washing and after, to remove all
cleaning agents completely. If they
are allowed to dry on the surface,
they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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290 Vehicle Care
Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
steel fuel door hinges, unless the
components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips
with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick
or squeak.
Underbody Maintenance
At least twice a year, spring and fall,
use plain water to flush any
corrosive materials from the
underbody. Take care to thoroughly
clean any areas where mud and
other debris can collect.
Do not directly power wash the
transfer case and/or front/rear axle
output seals. High pressure water
can overcome the seals and
contaminate the fluid. Contaminated
fluid will decrease the life of the
transfer case and/or axles and
should be replaced.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body
repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to parts repaired or
replaced to restore corrosion
protection.
Original manufacturer replacement
parts will provide the corrosion
protection while maintaining the
vehicle warranty.
Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and
scratches with touch-up materials
available from your dealer to avoid
corrosion. Larger areas of finish
damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.
Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon
and attack painted vehicle surfaces
causing blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint
surface. See“Finish Care”
previously in this section.
Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions,
regularly clean the vehicle's interior.
Immediately remove any soils.
Newspapers or dark garments can
transfer color to the vehicle’s
interior.
Use a soft bristle brush to remove
dust from knobs and crevices on the
instrument cluster. Using a mild
soap solution, immediately remove
hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect
repellent from all interior surfaces or
permanent damage may result.
Use cleaners specifically designed
for the surfaces being cleaned to
prevent permanent damage. Apply
all cleaners directly to the cleaning
cloth. Do not spray cleaners on any
switches or controls. Remove
cleaners quickly.
Before using cleaners, read and
follow all safety instructions on the
label. While cleaning the interior,
open the doors and windows to get
proper ventilation.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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Vehicle Care 291
To prevent damage, do not clean
the interior using the following
cleaners or techniques:
.Never use a razor or any other
sharp object to remove soil from
any interior surface.
. Never use a brush with stiff
bristles.
. Never rub any surface
aggressively or with too much
pressure.
. Do not use laundry detergents or
dishwashing soaps with
degreasers. For liquid cleaners,
use approximately 20 drops per
3.8 L (1 gal) of water.
A concentrated soap solution will
create streaks and attract dirt.
Do not use solutions that contain
strong or caustic soap.
. Do not heavily saturate the
upholstery when cleaning.
. Do not use solvents or cleaners
containing solvents.Interior Glass
To clean, use a terry cloth fabric
dampened with water. Wipe droplets
left behind with a clean dry cloth.
If necessary, use a commercial
glass cleaner after cleaning with
plain water.
Caution
To prevent scratching, never use
abrasive cleaners on automotive
glass. Abrasive cleaners or
aggressive cleaning may damage
the rear window defogger.
Cleaning the windshield with water
during the first three to six months
of ownership will reduce tendency
to fog.
Speaker Covers
Vacuum around a speaker cover
gently, so that the speaker will not
be damaged. Clean spots with water
and mild soap.
Coated Moldings
Coated moldings should be cleaned.
. When lightly soiled, wipe with a
sponge or soft, lint-free cloth
dampened with water.
. When heavily soiled, use warm
soapy water.
Fabric/Carpet/Suede
Start by vacuuming the surface
using a soft brush attachment. If a
rotating vacuum brush attachment is
being used, only use it on the floor
carpet. Before cleaning, gently
remove as much of the soil as
possible:
.Gently blot liquids with a paper
towel. Continue blotting until no
more soil can be removed.
. For solid soils, remove as much
as possible prior to vacuuming.
To clean:
1. Saturate a clean, lint-free colorfast cloth with water.
Microfiber cloth is
recommended to prevent lint
transfer to the fabric or carpet.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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292 Vehicle Care
2. Remove excess moisture bygently wringing until water does
not drip from the cleaning cloth.
3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub toward the
center. Fold the cleaning cloth
to a clean area frequently to
prevent forcing the soil in to the
fabric.
4. Continue gently rubbing the soiled area until there is no
longer any color transfer from
the soil to the cleaning cloth.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap
solution followed only by plain
water.
If the soil is not completely
removed, it may be necessary to
use a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small
hidden area for colorfastness before
using a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. If ring
formation occurs, clean the entire
fabric or carpet.
After cleaning, use a paper towel to
blot excess moisture.Cleaning High Gloss Surfaces
and Vehicle Information and
Radio Displays
Use a microfiber cloth on high gloss
surfaces or vehicle displays. First,
use a soft bristle brush to remove
dirt that can scratch the surface.
Then gently clean by rubbing with a
microfiber cloth. Never use window
cleaners or solvents. Periodically
hand wash the microfiber cloth
separately, using mild soap. Do not
use bleach or fabric softener. Rinse
thoroughly and air dry before
next use.
Caution
Do not attach a device with a
suction cup to the display. This
may cause damage and would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
Instrument Panel, Leather,
Vinyl, Other Plastic Surfaces,
Low Gloss Paint Surfaces, and
Natural Open Pore Wood
Surfaces
Use a soft microfiber cloth
dampened with water to remove
dust and loose dirt. For a more
thorough cleaning, use a soft
microfiber cloth dampened with a
mild soap solution.
Caution
Soaking or saturating leather,
especially perforated leather, as
well as other interior surfaces,
may cause permanent damage.
Wipe excess moisture from these
surfaces after cleaning and allow
them to dry naturally. Never use
heat, steam, or spot removers. Do
not use cleaners that contain
silicone or wax-based products.
Cleaners containing these
solvents can permanently change (Continued)
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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300 Service and Maintenance
Footnotes—Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services - Normal
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
passenger compartment air filter
replacement may be needed if
driving in areas with heavy traffic,
poor air quality, high dust levels,
or environmental allergens.
Passenger compartment air filter
replacement may also be needed if
there is reduced airflow, window
fogging, or odors. Your GM dealer
can help determine when to replace
the filter.
(2) Visually check all fuel and vapor
lines and hoses for proper
attachment, connection, routing, and
condition.
(3) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
(4) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System
0 232. (5)
Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
(6) If equipped with an automatic
transmission, replace brake fluid
every five years. See Brake Fluid
0 238.
(7) If equipped with a manual
transmission, replace brake/clutch
fluid every three years. See Brake
Fluid 0238.
(8) Or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. See Wiper Blade
Replacement 0242.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
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302 Service and Maintenance
Footnotes—Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services - Severe
(1) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
passenger compartment air filter
replacement may be needed if
driving in areas with heavy traffic,
poor air quality, high dust levels,
or environmental allergens.
Passenger compartment air filter
replacement may also be needed if
there is reduced airflow, window
fogging, or odors. Your GM dealer
can help determine when to replace
the filter.
(2) Visually check all fuel and vapor
lines and hoses for proper
attachment, connection, routing, and
condition.
(3) Or every four years, whichever
comes first. If driving in dusty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
oil change or more often as needed.
(4) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System
0 232. (5)
Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.
(6) If equipped with an automatic
transmission, replace brake fluid
every five years. See Brake Fluid
0 238.
(7) If equipped with a manual
transmission, replace brake/clutch
fluid every three years. See Brake
Fluid 0238.
(8) Or every 12 months, whichever
comes first. See Wiper Blade
Replacement 0242.Special Application
Services
.
Severe Commercial Use
Vehicles Only: Lubricate chassis
components every oil change.
. Have underbody flushing service
performed. See "Underbody
Maintenance" in Exterior Care
0 286.
Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual (GMNA-Localizing-U.S./Canada-12461769) -
2019 - crc - 5/21/18
Index 345
M
MaintenanceRecords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 308
Maintenance and Care Additional . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . . . 297 Recommended Fluids andLubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . . 116
Manual Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Manual Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . 199 Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Manual Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Media
Avoiding Untrusted Devices . . 150
Messages Engine Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Vehicle Speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Mirrors Convex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Manual Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Monitor System, Tire
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261
Multi-band Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
N
Navigation Connected Services . . . . . . . . . . 335
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . . 185
O
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
Off-Road
Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
Oil Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . . 229
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Older Children, Restraints . . . . . . . 82
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . . 316
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 326
OnStar Additional Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
OnStar Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . 328
OnStar Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327
OnStar Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 329
OnStar System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 155
Operate Pedal Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 119 Operation
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Outlets Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
Overheating, Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Owner Manual Indicator . . . . . . . . 118
P
Park Shifting Into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
Shifting Out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Park Assist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194 Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Brake and P (Park)Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . . . 241
Extended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . . 195
Ultrasonic Sensor Light . . . . . . . 121
Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Passenger Compartment Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172
Passenger Sensing System . . . . . 76
Perchlorate Materials Requirements, California . . . . . . 223