Chevrolet 1994 Cavalier Owner's Manual page 216

CHECK
I
OR SERVICE
Steering Column
Lock
Parking Brake
and Automatic
Transaxle P (Park)
Mechanism Check
WHAT TO DO
While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the key to LOCK in each shift lever
position.
With an automatic transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in P
(Park) .
With a manual transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in R
(Reverse).
On vehicles with a key release button, try to turn the key to LOCK without pressing the button.
The key should turn to LOCK only with the key button depressed. On all vehicles, the key
should come out only in LOCK.
Turn the steering wheel to the left and to the right. It should only lock when turned to the right.
~~ ~~ ~
CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others
could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of your
vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle
begin to move.
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular
brake, set the parking brake.
To check the parking brake: With the engine running and transaxle in N (Neutral), slowly
remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the
parking brake only.
To check the P (Park) mechanism's holding ability: Shift to P (Park). Then release all brakes.
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take
care to clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris can collect.