The Chevrolet Corvette
Intelligent Operator’s Handheld Manual
The Chevrolet Corvette
Intelligent Operator’s Handheld Manual
Quick Find for Features and Controls
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Dual-Zone Temperature Control
Now standard in all Corvette models, dual-zone temperature control lets the driver and passenger adjust the temperature settings for maximum individual comfort.
Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find
something you want to read.
Section 2 Features and Controls
Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
CAUTION
Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.
There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
From the outside, use your door key or the key fob transmitter. If your theft-deterrent system is armed, unlock the doors only with the key or the transmitter to avoid setting off the alarm. See "Universal Theft-Deterrent" in the Index.
To lock the door from the inside, move the lock control on the door forward. To unlock it, move the lock control on the door backward.
Press the power door unlock/lock switch on either door to lock or unlock both doors at once.
If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and
close the door.
Your vehicle has a Remote Function Actuator, or key fob transmitter function that can also lock your vehicle as you walk away from it. See "Remote Function Actuation System’’ in the Index.
MEMORY can store and recall the vehicle settings for the driver’s seat position, the outside rearview mirror position, comfort control temperature, fan speed and mode settings, radio presets, tone, volume, playback mode (AM/FM, Tape or CD), last displayed station, compact disc position and audio tape direction.
The MEMORY buttons are located on the driver’s side door, above the power mirror buttons. The MEMORY buttons can store and recall the vehicle settings for up to three drivers. Use button "1" to store the vehicle settings for the first driver, button "2" for a second driver or press buttons 1 and 2 simultaneously for a third driver.
To store your vehicle settings, press and hold a MEMORY button. The light will glow steady for one second and then flash once when the settings are completed.
To recall your settings, press your MEMORY button. The light above the button will flash until the correct vehicle settings are achieved, then glow for three seconds when completed.
Your memory settings will also be recalled when you press the active door UNLOCK button on the key fob transmitter.
Drivers 1 ,2 and 3 correspond to the order in which your key fob transmitters were programmed. (See "Fob Training" in the Index.)
Memory recall will not work if the vehicle is moving, the ignition key is removed or a power seat, mirror or memory switch is being used. Memory recall will be temporarily interrupted during engine crank.
Remote Function Actuation System
Your vehicle has a passive/active Remote Function Actuation (RFA) system that allows you to lock andunlock your doors, unlock your hatch/trunk lid, turn the panic alarm on and off and disarm or arm your theft-deterrent system. When using one of the key fob transmitters supplied with your vehicle, the passive range distance is as much as 30 feet (9 m) away from the vehicle on the driver’s side and 20 feet (6 m) away on the passenger’s side. The active range distance is as much as 100 feet (30 m) away.
Your vehicle comes standard with two transmitters, and up to three can be matched to your vehlcle. See "Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle" later in this section.
Your RFA system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
If you ever notice a decrease in the key fob transmitter range, try doing one of the following:
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
You don’t have to do anything for the RFA to work when the passive feature is on.
You can turn on the passive feature by moving the transmitter’s slider switch to ON. Now, when you move toward your vehicle with the key fob transmitter, the system will automatically disarm your theft-deterrent system and unlock the driver’s door or both depending on how the system is programmed. If it’s dark enough outside, your interior lamps will come on.
You can also use the buttons on the transmitter to actively unlock your vehicle. Press UNLOCK once to unlock the driver’s door, or press UNLOCK again within 10 seconds to unlock both doors.
The hatch/trunk lid will unlock when the button with the trunk symbol is pressed, as long as the ignition is turned to the OFF position.
If you move out of range with the slider switch set to ON, the key fob transmitter will:
The system has a feature that makes it difficult for you to lock your keys in your vehicle. If you leave your keys in the ignition and attempt to lock the doors, the vehicle will not lock and a chime will sound to remind you that the keys are in the ignition. If the door lock is pressed again, within five seconds, the doors will lock and the keys can be locked in the car. If you leave the keys in the ignition and move away with the key fob transmitter, the doors still will not lock. You should notice that the horn doesn’t sound and return to get your keys out of the ignition.
The system will allow you to lock your keys in the vehicle if you didn’t leave them in the ignition. You should, however, be able to use the key fob transmitter to get them out as long as the passive slide switch is in the ON position. After 15 seconds of no motion, the key fob transmitter shuts down to save the battery. Wait about 30 seconds, then rock the vehicle. The key fob transmitter should "wake up" and unlock the doors.
This system can’t guarantee that you will never be locked out of your vehicle. If the battery is low or if the key fob transmitter is in a place where the signal can’t get to the antenna, it won’t unlock the doors. Always remember to take your keys with you.
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
When you press the special horn button on the key fob transmitter, your vehicle’s horn will sound. This panic alarm button will allow you to attract attention,if needed.
If the horn alarm sounds, there are three ways to turn it off:
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
You can adjust the settings on the system through the Driver Information Center (DIC). You can have just the driver’s or both door locks passively unlock, change the type of alarm used by the theft-deterrent, or have lamps come on when you approach the vehicle. See "Driver Information Center Controls and Displays" in the Index.
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
Turning the Passive System Off
You can disable the passive feature by moving the transmitter’s slider switch to OFF. The vehicle will no longer automatically disarm your theft-deterrent system or unlock the doors, however, you will be able to actively control use of the door locks, the hatch/trunk lid release and the panic alarm using the four transmitter buttons. (These buttons also work when the passive feature is on.)
Make sure to fully slide the switch to either side when turning the key fob transmitter on and off. You should feel a double click when sliding the switch back and forth.
You can also check whether the passive system is on or off by closing the door and moving away from the vehicle with the keys and transmitter. If the doors lock, the passive system is on.
If you are working around your vehicle and keeping your keys with you, you might want to turn the RFA passive system off. If you don’t, the transmitter will keep locking and unlocking your doors.
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
The active range (using one of the four buttons) of the key fob transmitter is approximately 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 m). The passive range (having the slider switch set to ON) is approximately 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 m) on the passenger’s side of the vehicle and 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 m) on the driver’s side.
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
Resynchronizing Your Transmitter
Your RFA system uses a continually changing code for increased security. Normally, the receiver in your vehicle will keep track of this changing code. , If your vehicle does not respond to your transmitter, do the following to determine what’s wrong:
Loss of synchronization will occur after transmitter battery replacement or disconnection of the vehicle’s battery. If attempts to resynchronize your transmitter to the vehicle are not successful, you may need to match the transmitter to the vehicle.
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle
Each key fob transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your dealer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only three transmitters matched to it.
To match transmitters to your vehicle:
The programming mode will shut off if:
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
Under normal use, the battery in your key fob transmitter should last about 18 months. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.
NOTICE:
When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.
Replacing Your Battery
Return to Remote Function Actuation System
Remote Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
To use the remote hatch/trunk lid release on automatic transmission vehicles, your vehicle must be in PARK (P) or NUETRAL (N). For manual transmissions, set the parking brake. See "Parking Brake" in the Index.
Press the button with the trunk symbol on it, located at the left side of the steering column on the instrument panel, to release the hatch/trunk lid from inside your vehicle.
The key fob transmitter will also release the hatch/trunk lid. See "Remote Function Actuation System" in the Index.
If your vehicle is equipped with a hatch and you have lost battery power, use the manual release cables to open the hatch. To access the cables, remove the two access panels located in the rear of the trunk area. There is one cable located underneath each access panel. (See "Storage Compartments" in the Index for more information.)
Pull each cable straight down for each latch to release the hatch.
If your vehicle is equipped with a convertible top and you have lost battery power, use the manual release cable to open the trunk lid. To access the cable, remove the center access panel located in the rear of the trunk area. (See "Storage Compartments" in the Index for more information.)
Pull the cable straight down to release the trunk lid.
CAUTION
It can be dangerous to drive with the hatch/trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death.
If you must drive with the hatch/trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the hatch/trunk lid:
See "Engine Exhaust" in the Index.
NOTICE:
If you put things in the hatch/trunk area, be sure they won’t break the glass when you close it. Never slam the hatch/trunk lid down. You could break the glass or damage the defogger grid. When you close the hatch/trunk lid, make sure you pull down from the center, not the sides. If you pull the hatch/trunk lid down from the side too often, the weatherstrip can be damaged.
NOTICE:
Do not store heavy or sharp objects in the three storage compartments located in the hatch/trunk area. If you do, the objects could damage the underbody.
Return to Remote Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help.
Return to Remote Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your vehicle and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition. If you have an automatic transmission, taking your key out also locks your transmission. And remember to lock the doors.
Return to Remote Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.
Return to Remote Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your key? Do not leave valuables in your vehicle, since there would be no place to secure them.
Return to Remote Hatch/Trunk Lid Release
Universal Theft-Deterrent System
Your Corvette has a theft-deterrent alarm system. With this system, the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off).
This light reminds you to arrn the theft-deterrent system. To arm the system, do the following:
Now, if a door or the hatch/trunk lid is opened without the key or the key fob transmitter system, the alarm will go off. Your horn will sound for two minutes, then it will go off to save battery power. And, your vehicle won’t start.
The theft-deterrent system won’t arm if you lock the doors with a key, the manual door lock, or if you power lock (from the inside) the vehicle after the doors are closed.
If your passenger stays in the vehicle when you leave with the keys, have the passenger lock the vehicle after the doors are closed. This way the alarm won’t arm, and your passenger won’t set it off.
Always use your key or the key fob transmitter to unlock a door. Unlocking a door any other way will set off the alarm. If you do set off the alarm, there are four ways to stop it:
Return To Universal Theft-Deterrent System
If the alarm is inoperative, check to see if the horn works. If not, check the horn fuse. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. If the horn works, but the alarm doesn’t go off, see your dealer.
Return To Universal Theft-Deterrent System
Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key is a passive theft-deterrent system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition.
PASS-Key uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle.
2-18
When the PASS-Key system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key during this time, the shutdown period will start over again. This discourages someone from randomly trying different keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a match.
The key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the SECURITY light comes on, the key may be dirty or wet.
If this happens and the starter won’t work, turn theignition off. Clean and dry the key, wait three minutesand try again. If the starter still won’t work, wait three minutes and try the other ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuses (see "Fuses and Circuit Breakers" in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key.
If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, you will see no SECURITY light. You don’t have to wait three minutes before trying the proper key.
If the resistor pellet is damaged or missing, the starter won’t work. Use the other ignition key, and see your dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key to have a new key made.
If the SECURITY light comes on while driving, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
If you lose or damage a PASS-Key ignition key, see your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key.In an emergency, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance
Center at 1-800-CHEV-USA (1-800-243-8872). In
Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.
NOTICE:
Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate "break-in." But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines:
With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions.
OFF: The only position from which you can remove the key. Removing the key locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission.
If you have an automatic transmission, the ignition switch can’t be turned to OFF unless the shift lever is in PARK (P).
ACC: The position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. With the key in this position, the automatic transmission and steering column will unlock.
ON: The position to which the switch returns after you start the engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the ON position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use ON to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel messages and telltales.
START: Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to ON for normal driving.
When the engine is not running, ACC and ON allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio.
A warning tone will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in OFF or ACC and the key is in the ignition.
CAUTION
Removing the key from the ignition switch will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could cause a collision. If you need to turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key to ACC.
NOTICE:
If your key seems stuck in OFF and you can’t turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if so, is it all the way in? Turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
With RAP, your power windows and the audio system will continue to work for up to 15 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF and neither door is opened. If a door is opened, the audio system and power windows will shut off.
This vehicle has a computer system that monitors engine speed, throttle and pedal position, and records the current status.
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
NOTICE:
Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Corvette is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
Return to Starting Your Engine
The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL (N). Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that’s a safety feature.
Return to Starting Your Engine
1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.
NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.
2. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds, push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while you hold the ignition key in START. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery or damaging your starter.
When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or -18"C), do this:
NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See "Towing Your Vehicle" in the Index.
Return to Starting Your Engine
For your convenience and to avoid damage to your starter, your vehicle is equipped with a starter interlock feature. This feature will not allow you to crank the engine when the vehicle is already running.
Return to Starting Your Engine
Racing or Other Competitive Driving
See your Warranty Book before using your vehicle for racing or other competitive driving.
NOTICE:
If you use your vehicle for racing or other competitive driving, your engine may use more oil than it would with normal use. Low oil levels can damage the engine. Be sure to check the oil level often during racing or other competitive driving and keep the level at or near the upper mark on the engine oil dipstick. You may need to add oil. See "Adding Oil" under "Engine" in the Index.
Return to Starting Your Engine
(Canada Only)
The engine coolant heater is located on the driver’s side of the engine under the manifold. The electrical cord is attached to the generator bracket assembly, between the generator and the windshield washer fluid tank.
In very cold weather, 0 O F (- 18 O C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.
Return To Engine Coolant Heater
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
CAUTION
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.
Return To Engine Coolant Heater
Automatic Transmission Operation
There are several different positions for your shift lever.
PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.
CAUTION
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P). See "Shifting Into PARK (P)" in the Index.
Be sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your vehicle has a brake-transmission shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the ON position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (If you do not apply the brake after 15 seconds once the ignition is turned on, you will receive a PRESS BRAKE BEFORE SHIFT message in the Driver Information Center.) See "Shifting Out of PARK (P)" in the Index.
Return to Automatic Transmission Operation
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.
NOTICE:
Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transmission. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transmission, see "Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow" in the Index.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.
CAUTION
Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is "racing" (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.
NOTICE:
Damage to your transmission caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty.
Return to Automatic Transmission Operation
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE : This position is for normal driving.
Return to Automatic Transmission Operation
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0).
Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (a):
Return to Automatic Transmission Operation
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.
Return to Automatic Transmission Operation
FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (l), the transmission won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.
NOTICE:
If your rear wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transmission. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transmission. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.
Maximum engine speed is limited to protect driveline components from improper operation.
Return to Automatic Transmission Operation
6-Speed
This is your shift pattern. Here’s how to operate your transmission:
FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.
You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 40 mph (64 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST (l), put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1).
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up on the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) AND SIXTH (6):
Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5 ) and SIXTH (6) the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal.
To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift to NEUTRAL (N).
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
NEUTRAL (N): Use this position when you start or idle your engine. Your shift lever is in NEUTRAL (N) when it is centered in the shift pattern, not in any other gear.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Just apply pressure to get the lever past FIFTH (5 ) and SIXTH (6) into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal.
Your six-speed manual transmission has a feature that allows you to safely shift into REVERSE (R) while the vehicle is rolling (at less than 5 mph (8 km/h)). You will be locked out if you try to shft into REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving faster than 5 mph (8 km/h). If you have turned your ignition off and wish to park your car in REVERSE (R), you will have to move the shift lever quickly to the right, and immediately forward into gear.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
Shift Speeds (Manual Transmission)
This chart shows when to shift to the next higher gear for best fuel economy.
If your engine speed drops below 900 rpm, or if the engine is not running smoothly, you should downshift to the next lower gear. You may have to downshift two or more gears to keep the engine running smoothly or for good performance.
NOTICE:
When you are shifting gears, don't move the gearshift lever around needlessly. This can damage parts of the transmission and may require costly repair. Shift directly into the next appropriate gear.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
One to Four Light (Manual Transmission)
When this light comes on, you can only shift from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) instead of FIRST (1) to SECOND (2). You must complete the shift into FOURTH (4) to deactivate this feature. This helps you get the best possible fuel economy.
After shifting to FOURTH (4), you may downshift to alower gear if you prefer.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
NOTICE:
Do not try to force the shift lever into SECOND (2) or THIRD (3) when the ONE TO FOUR light comes on. Do not try to re-engage FIRST (1) after starting to shift into FOURTH (4). You will damage your transmission. Shift only from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) when the light comes on.
This light will come on when:
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
Downshifting (Manual Transmission)
Do not downshift into the gear shown below at a speed greater than shown in the table:
FIRST (1) .................... 50 mph (80 km/h)
SECOND (2) ................ 74 mph (1 19 km/h)
THIRD (3) ................. 101 mph (163 km/h)
FOURTH (4) ............... 130 mph (209 km/h)
NOTICE:
If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, or if you race the engine when you downshift, you can damage the clutch, driveshaft or transmission.
The six-speed transmission has a spring that centers the shift lever near THIRD (3) and FOURTH (4). This spring helps you know which gear you are in when you are shifting. Be careful when shifting from FIRST (1) to SECOND (2) or downshifting from SIXTH (6) to FIFTH (5). The springs will try to pull the gearshift lever toward FOURTH (4) and THIRD (3). Make sure you move the lever into SECOND (2) or FIFTH (5). If you let the lever move in the direction of the pulling, you may end up shifting from FIRST (1) to FOURTH (4) or from SIXTH (6) to THIRD (3).
CAUTION
If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. And you could injure yourself or others. Don’t shift from SIXTH (6) to THIRD (3), FIFTH (5) to SECOND (2) or FOURTH (4) to FIRST (1).
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever. This sets your parking brake. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on.
NOTICE:
Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle. Make sure the brake warning light is not on before driving.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Hold the release button in as you move the brake lever all the way down.
Return To Manual Transmission Operation
(Automatic Transmission Only)
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running,. the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission Only)
CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.
Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission)
If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called "torque lock." To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see "Shifting Into PARK (P)" in the Index.
When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transmission, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission)
Your vehicle has a brake-transmission shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the ON position. See "Automatic Transmission Operation" in the Index.
As a prompt, you will see a message in the Driver Information Center (DIC) that will say PRESS BRAKE BEFORE SHIFT within 15 seconds unless the brake is pressed.
If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) and release the shift lever button as you maintain brake application. Then press the shift lever button and move the shift lever into the gear you wish.
If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this:
Return To Shifting Out of Park
Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission)
Before you get out of your vehicle, put your manual transmission in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the parking brake.
Return To Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission)
Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust
CAUTION
Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.
Return To Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission)
CAUTION
Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.
If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:
Return To Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission)
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transmission)
It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.
CAUTION
Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under "Engine Exhaust").
Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust, with CO, can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running.
Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See "Blizzard" in the Index.)
Return To Running Your Engine While You're Parked
CAUTION
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever to PARK (P).
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See "Shifting Into PARK (P)" in the Index.
Return To Running Your Engine While You're Parked
Your limited-slip rear axle can give you additional traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works like a standard axle most of the time, but when one of the rear wheels has no traction and the other does, this feature will allow the wheel with traction to move the vehicle.
Return To Limited-Slip Rear Axle
Selective Real Time Damping (Option)
You may have a ride control system on your vehicle called Selective Real Time Damping (SRTD). The system provides the following performance benefits:
This knob is on the center console. Turn it to select the suspension characteristic of your choice.
Return To Selective Real Time Damping
TOUR: Use for normal city and highway driving. Provides a smooth, soft ride.
Return To Selective Real Time Damping
SPORT: Use where road conditions or personal preference demand more control. Provides more "feel," or response to the road conditions.
Return To Selective Real Time Damping
PERF: Use for performance driving. Provides a tight, firm ride and precise response to road conditions.
You can select a setting at any time. Based on road conditions, steering wheel angle and your vehicle speed, the system automatically adjusts to provide the best ride and handling. Select a new setting whenever driving conditions change.
There are three Driver Information Center messages that are displayed when a malfunction occurs with the SRTD system. Refer to "Driver Information Center Warnings and Messages’’ in the Index.
Return To Selective Real Time Damping
With power windows, switches on the door control each window when the ignition is on or when RAP is present. (See "Retained Accessory Power" in the Index.)