Chevrolet 1999 Camaro Owner's Manual

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The 1999 Chevrolet Camaro Owner's Manual

Seats and Restraint Systems

This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the air bag system.

Features and Controls

This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle.

Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

Your Driving and the Road

Here you'll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

Problems on the Road

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

Service and Appearance Care

Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good.

Maintenance Schedule

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

Customer Assistance Information

This section tells you how to contact Chevrolet for assistance and how to get service and owner publications.

It also gives you information on "Reporting Safety Defects" on page 8

Index

Here's an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find

something you want to read.

10.

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Table of Contents

Summary of Contents for Chevrolet 1999 Camaro

Page 1 This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Chevrolet for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8 Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual.
Page 2 For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road.
Page 3 You have selected a vehicle designed, engineered and crafted by teamwork, a Louis Chevrolet, the other half of the team, at the wheel of his experimental “Classic Six,” which entered production in 1912. That year 2999 vehicles were produced.
Page 4 The Chevrolet blend of value and performance has become an American tradition -- whether bred for the racetrack like the legendary Corvette and Camaro, or In 1932 Chevrolet introduced the Synchro Mesh transmission and offered a host of accessories -- including...
Page 5 Camaro, and powerplants like the legendary 327 V8. The 1957 Chevy started a romance with the American public -- and was powered by an available fuel Your new Chevrolet continues a tradition of quality and value. yellowblue injected V8.
Page 6: How To Use This Manual
How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly.
Page 7 Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly.
Page 8 Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. For example, These symbols these symbols are important are used on an for you and original battery: your passengers whenever your vehicle is CAUTION driven: POSSIBLE INJURY DOOR LOCK PROTECT...
Page 9 Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here are Questions Many People Ask About...
Page 10: Seats And Seat Controls
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats them and also about reclining front seatbacks, seatback latches and the folding rear seatback. Manual Front Seat CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
Page 11 4-Way Manual Seat There are two levers at the front of the seat. The left lever adjusts the seat forward and rearward. The right lever adjusts the angle of the front of the seat. To adjust the seats forward and rearward, lift the lever under the left front of the seat.
Page 12 Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to its original upright position. But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
Page 13 CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries.
Page 14 Folding Rear Seatback The rear seatback in your vehicle folds down to provide more storage space. To fold the seatback down: 1. Pull forward on both levers. 2. Fold the seatback down. To raise the seatback: 1. Pull it up to the locked, upright position. 2.
Page 15 CAUTION: It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts.
Page 16: Why Safety Belts Work
yellowblue Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. Put someone on it. Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.
Page 17 Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... yellowblue...
Page 18 yellowblue or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.
Page 19 Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.
Page 20: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.”...
Page 21 yellowblue If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch 5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt. end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
Page 22 yellowblue The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.
Page 23 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
Page 24 What’s wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place. 1-16 CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones.
Page 25 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury.
Page 26 What’s wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body. 1-18 CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.
Page 27: Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.
Page 28: Air Bag System
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.
Page 29 CAUTION: Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. This is true even with Next Generation frontal air bags.
Page 30 How the Air Bag System Works Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. 1-22 The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. yellowblue...
Page 31 CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.
Page 32 How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
Page 33 In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system.
Page 34: Rear Seat Passengers
CAUTION: For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates.
Page 35 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. On convertible models, the shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.
Page 36 yellowblue 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones.
Page 37 On convertible models, the safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor. CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
Page 38 Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
Page 39 CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should.
Page 40 CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued) 1-32 CAUTION: (Continued) at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 will suddenly become a 240...
Page 41: Child Restraints
Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. What are the different types of add child restraints? on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will...
Page 42 yellowblue A rear facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash.
Page 43 yellowblue A forward facing child restraint (C E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age.
Page 44 yellowblue A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system.
Page 45: Where To Put The Restraint
When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both.
Page 46: Top Strap
Top Strap If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Vehicles First Sold in the United States: Was your vehicle first sold in the United States? If so, the label located on the rear edge of the driver’s door will say that the vehicle meets “all U.S.
Page 47 Vehicles First Sold in Canada: If your vehicle was first sold in Canada, the label located on the rear edge of the driver’s door will say that the vehicle meets “all Canada safety standards.” Canadian law requires that forward restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored.
Page 48 Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position You’ll be using the lap shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint.
Page 49 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child...
Page 50 To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag.
Page 51 2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
Page 52 5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6.
Page 53 CAUTION: Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time. What if a child is wearing a lap but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?
Page 54 1-46 CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen.
Page 55: Safety Belt Extender
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you.
Page 56 yellowblue NOTES 1-48...
Page 57 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.
Page 58 yellowblue Keys CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
Page 59 If you need a new ignition key, contact your dealer, who can obtain the correct key code. In an emergency, call Chevrolet Roadside Assistance at 1 or 1 8872 (In Canada call 1 NOTICE: Your vehicle has a number of features that can help prevent theft.
Page 60: Door Locks
Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children 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.
Page 61 Power Door Locks (If Equipped) Press the power door lock switch located on the driver’s door to lock or unlock both doors at once. Operating the power locks may affect the Content Theft Deterrent/Alarm System (if your vehicle has this option).
Page 62: Leaving Your Vehicle
Lockout Prevention (If Equipped) To protect you from locking your keys in the vehicle, this feature stops the power door locks from locking when the keys are in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open, a chime will sound five times as a reminder to take the keys out of the ignition before locking the door.
Page 63 This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Page 64 Alarm/Panic Mode If you are involved in a panic situation, press the horn symbol button on your remote keyless entry transmitter and your vehicle’s horn will sound and the parking lamps will flash. This will draw needed attention to you and your vehicle.
Page 65: Battery Replacement
3. Turn the ignition key from OFF to RUN three times quickly (within five seconds). The vehicle will respond by locking the doors, unlocking the driver’s door and releasing the hatch. Your transmitter is now ready to match the vehicle. Leave the ignition in RUN. 4.
Page 66 To replace the battery in the remote keyless entry transmitter: 1. Carefully pry off the cover by inserting a dime (or similar object) in the slot between the covers and twist. 2. Lift off the back cover. 3. Remove and replace the battery. Use one battery, type CR2032, or a similar type.
Page 67 Hatch CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the hatch 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 open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the hatch:...
Page 68 This button only works when the ignition is in RUN, ACC or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.) NOTICE: If you put things in the hatchback area, be sure they won’t break the glass when you close it. Never slam the hatch down.
Page 69 Parking Lots 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 ignition key? If possible, park in a busy, well lit area. Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk or glove box.
Page 70 If the alarm is sounding because an incorrect ignition key was used, press any button on the remote keyless entry transmitter to turn the alarm off. The alarm will stop by itself after two minutes. Shock Sensor Coupe 2-14 The shock sensor is what triggers the alarm when it detects a blow to your vehicle.
Page 71 Arming the System The alarm system can be armed to detect break locking your vehicle with the remote keyless entry transmitter or by locking the doors with the power door lock switch. Passive arming is also available if you would like the system to arm all by itself after the doors have been closed for a short time.
Page 72: Disarming The System
Passive Arming If the ignition was just turned off and a door was opened, the system will arm six seconds after both doors are closed, whether or not you lock them. In all other cases, the system will wait 30 seconds after both doors are closed before arming, allowing you time to get into the vehicle and put the key in the ignition.
Page 73 If you lose or damage a PASS your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS Key II. to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center at CHEV call 1 Key II system, however,...
Page 74 Feature Customization (If Equipped) Your vehicle’s locks and lighting systems can be programmed with several different features. The features you can program depend upon the options that came with your vehicle. The following list tells you the features that can be programmed. Listed next to each feature is the option you need to have on your vehicle in order to be able to program that particular feature.
Page 75 Exit Lighting and Delayed Illumination With Exit Lighting, your interior lamps will come on for up to 25 seconds when the key is removed from the ignition. With Delayed Illumination, your interior lamps will come on and stay on for up to 25 seconds when entering your vehicle and up to five seconds when leaving your vehicle.
Page 76 Remote Keyless Entry Verification Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 5. To change the factory setting, do the following: 1. Press the UNLOCK button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for.
Page 77 Mode 1: All Off (No horn chirps or parking lamp flash). Mode 2: Horn and Lamps (Your parking lamps will flash and your horn will chirp twice to verify the system is armed using any arming method). Mode 3: Horn and Lamps/Lamps (If you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to arm the system, your parking lamps will flash and your horn will chirp twice to verify that the system is armed.
Page 78 Mode 1: Zero Delay and Shock Sensor Disabled (The alarm will sound immediately if the driver’s door is opened with your key and the shock sensor will not be available to measure sharp blows to your vehicle). Mode 2: Eight Second Delay and Shock Sensor Disabled (The alarm will sound eight seconds after the driver’s door is opened with your key and the shock...
Page 79: Ignition Positions
Ignition Positions CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in the vehicle with children.
Page 80 OFF (C): Unlocks the steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed. A warning tone will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in OFF and the key is in the ignition.
Page 81: Manual Transmission
To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Chevrolet is moving. If you do, you could damage the transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
Page 82 Starting Your 3800 Series II V6 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your 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.
Page 83 Starting Your 5.7L V8 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.
Page 84 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.
Page 85: Automatic Transmission Operation
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord is attached to the outside of the underhood fuse box. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110 CAUTION: Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock.
Page 86 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.
Page 87 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”...
Page 88 NOTICE: Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transmission. Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( DRIVE (D) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your engine.
Page 89: Manual Transmission Operation
Second-Gear Start (V6 Automatic) (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Second feature. Press the Second Gear Start (SGS) button on the instrument panel to provide more traction when you are starting on ice or other slippery surfaces. The light on the button will illuminate when Second Gear Start (SGS) is selected.
Page 90 THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5) the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch as you push the accelerator pedal. To stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and push the brake pedal.
Page 91: Shift Speeds
THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6): Shift into THIRD (3), FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6) gear 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.
Page 92 If your speed drops below 20 mph (32 km/h), 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.
Page 93: Parking Brake
Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down and pull up on the parking brake lever. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can push in the release button.
Page 94 If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving. Shifting Into PARK (P) (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.
Page 95 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.
Page 96: Parking Over Things That Burn
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.
Page 97: Engine Exhaust
Engine Exhaust 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. You might have exhaust coming in if: Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
Page 98: Manual Windows
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.
Page 99 Power Windows (If Equipped) Switches on the driver’s door control each window when the ignition is on or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.) You can open the passenger’s window any amount by pressing the switch and releasing it when the window has lowered to the position you want.
Page 100: Tilt Wheel
Tilt Wheel A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever.
Page 101: Turn Signal And Lane Change Indicator
Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down.
Page 102: Windshield Wipers
Windshield Wipers You can control the windshield wipers by turning the band with the wiper symbol on it, located on the turn signal/multifunction lever. For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle.
Page 103 Cruise Control (Option) With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes or push the clutch pedal (manual transmission) the cruise control shuts off.
Page 104 Setting Cruise Control CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use it.
Page 105 Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: Push in the set button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. To slow down in very small amounts, briefly push the button.
Page 106: Exterior Lamps
Exterior Lamps The main lamp control is a knob that works these lamps: Headlamps Taillamps Parking Lamps License Lamps Sidemarker Lamps Instrument Panel Lights 2-50 Turn the knob to this position to turn on your headlamps and other operating lamps. Turn the knob to this position to turn on your parking lamps and other operating lamps without your headlamps.
Page 107 The DRL system will make your front turn signal lamps come on when: the ignition is on, the headlamp switch is off, the parking brake is released and it is bright enough outside. When the DRL are on, only your front turn signal lamps will be on.
Page 108: Interior Lamps
Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness Control The thumbwheel controls the brightness of your instrument panel lights. Move the thumbwheel to brighten or dim the lights. If you move the thumbwheel all the way up, your courtesy lamps will come on. 2-52 Courtesy Lamps When either door is opened, several interior lamps go...
Page 109: Exit Lighting
Delayed Illumination With delayed illumination, the courtesy lamps will come on and stay on for 25 seconds after you close the doors when entering the vehicle. They will also stay on for five seconds after you close the doors when exiting the vehicle.
Page 110 Mirrors Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror An inside rearview mirror is attached to your windshield. The mirror has pivots so that you can adjust it. You can adjust the mirror for day or night driving. Pull the tab for night driving to reduce glare. Push the tab for daytime driving.
Page 111: Cargo Cover
CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.
Page 112 Removing the Cargo Cover 1. Close the cover. If the cargo cover is not closed and resting on the trim panel, it cannot be removed. 2. Pull the cover toward you to unsnap it. Then slide the cargo cover along the groove in the trim panel. Reverse the steps to install the cover.
Page 113: Sun Visors
NOTICE: Don’t put papers and other things that burn into your ashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage. To use the lighter, push it in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself.
Page 114: Floor Mats
NOTICE: When using the accessory plug: The maximum load of any electrical equipment should not exceed three amps. Be sure to turn off any electrical equipment when not in use. Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods can drain your battery. We recommend that you see a qualified technician or your dealer for the proper installation of your equipment.
Page 115 1. The door key unlocks the panels. The lock is over the door window. Turn the key counterclockwise to unlock the panel. 2. Then pull on the release handle to unlatch the panel. Lift the outer edge of the panel and pull it toward you.
Page 116 Storing the Twin Lift-Off Roof Panels CAUTION: If the T top panel is not stored properly, it could be thrown about the vehicle in a crash or sudden maneuver. People in the vehicle could be injured. Whenever you store the T top panel in the vehicle, always be sure that it is stored securely in the proper storage slot at the rear of the vehicle.
Page 117 2. Push the handle closed to secure the panel in the slot. To lock each panel in the storage area, use your door key. Installing the Twin Lift-Off Roof Panels CAUTION: An improperly attached roof panel may fall into or fly off the vehicle. You or others could be injured.
Page 118 1. When installing the panels to the roof, keep the outboard edge of the panel raised about three inches (8 cm) above the roof while placing the inboard edge of the panel under the center roof. 2-62 2. After the inboard edge of the panel is in position under the center roof rail, lower the outboard edge of the panel into position, close the latch and lock the T...
Page 119 NOTICE: Do not attempt to install the panels by sliding them horizontally toward the center roof rail. Doing so may cause the weatherstrips to be aligned improperly, which may result in leaks and possible damage to the weatherstrips. NOTICE: High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle.
Page 120 3. Open the latch and close the T top. Check to see if there are any gaps showing. Unlatch the T adjust the sunshade as required. 4. Once the sunshade is installed properly, you can stick the Velcro buttons on the glass for a proper fit every time you install the sunshades.
Page 121 You can store the sunshades two different ways: When the T tops are in use, store the sunshades in their storage area in the rear of the vehicle, and make sure the cargo cover is in its closed, upright position. When you have the T tops off and in their storage slots, store the sunshades on the T...
Page 122 NOTICE: It is not recommended that you raise or lower the top while the vehicle is moving. NOTICE: Don’t lower the top if it is damp or wet. When the top is down, trapped water can cause stains, mildew and damage to the inside of your vehicle. Be sure to dry off the top before you lower it.
Page 123 2. Unlock the front of the convertible top by pushing on the smaller part of the latch, then pulling down on the larger part of the latch. Be sure the hook on the latch that attaches into the hole at the windshield releases.
Page 124 4. Install the middle section of the cover by sliding the tabs into the slots on the right side cover. Lower the cover and insert the latch. 5. Close the hatch. 2-68 Removing Your Boot Cover 1. Open the hatch. Remove the middle piece of the cover by pushing in on the latch and lifting up on the cover.
Page 125 2. Remove the two side pieces of the boot cover by lifting the rear cover and sliding them out of their slots. 3. Store each piece of the cover in its separate compartment in the storage bag, store the bag in the hatch and close the hatch.
Page 126 Raising Your Convertible Top 1. It is recommended that you park on a level surface. Set the parking brake firmly. If you have an automatic transmission, shift into PARK (P). If you have a manual transmission, shift into REVERSE (R). The ignition must be in ACC, RUN or RAP must be on.
Page 127 NOTICE: The convertible top may be tight when pushing forward on the latch when your vehicle is new, but it will loosen up with time. Make sure that the hooks are properly aligned before using any kind of force. If your vehicle suffers a power loss, such as a dead battery, you can still raise the top manually by turning the valve in the driver’s side of the hatch.
Page 128 yellowblue The Instrument Panel Your Information System 2-72...
Page 129 A. Air Vents B. Main Lamp Control C. Instrument Panel Cluster D. Fog Lamp Switch (If Equipped) E. Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) Button or Second Gear Start Button (V6 Automatic without ASR) F. Audio System G. Comfort Controls H. Glove Box I.
Page 130: Instrument Panel Cluster
yellowblue Instrument Panel Cluster 5.7L V8 engine shown, 3800 V6 engine similar Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, your engine’s rpms, about how much fuel you have left and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.
Page 131: Speedometer And Odometer
Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada).
Page 132 Tachometer The tachometer displays the engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (rpm). NOTICE: Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the red area, or engine damage may occur. Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle.
Page 133: Safety Belt Reminder Light
Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 70 seconds.
Page 134: Brake System Warning Light
Voltmeter You can read battery voltage on your voltmeter. If it reads less than 11 volts or more than 16 volts while your engine is running, and it stays there, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system. Have it checked right away.
Page 135 If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service.
Page 136: Low Traction Light
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) System Warning Light (Option) This warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
Page 137: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is approaching an overheating condition. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
Page 138: Malfunction Indicator Lamp
NOTICE: Driving with the low coolant light on could cause your vehicle to overheat. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index. Your vehicle could be damaged, and it wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the...
Page 139 NOTICE: Modifications made to the engine, transmission, exhaust or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls and may cause the SERVICE ENGINE SOON light to come on.
Page 140 If the Light Is On Steady You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. See “Filling Your Tank” in the Index. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed.
Page 141: Oil Pressure Gage
Oil Pressure Gage 3800 V6 Engine 5.7L V8 Engine This gage tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure. The engine oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) in the U.S., or kPa (kilopascals) in Canada, when the engine is running.
Page 142 NOTICE: Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty. Low Oil Light This warning light should come on while you are starting your engine. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.
Page 143 Oil Change Light This OIL CHANGE light should come on briefly as a bulb check when you start the engine. If the OIL CHANGE light doesn’t come on, have it serviced. If the OIL CHANGE light comes on and stays on for 60 seconds after you start the engine, have the oil changed.
Page 144: Fuel Gage
Check Gages Light This warning light will come on briefly when you start the engine. If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your gages to see if they are in the warning areas. Hatch Ajar Light This warning light should come on in your instrument panel for a three...
Page 145: Reduced Engine Power Light
REDUCED ENG PWR light is on, but acceleration and speed may be reduced. Anytime this warning light stays on, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized Chevrolet dealer as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair. yellowblue...
Page 146 yellowblue NOTES 2-90...
Page 147 Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Comfort Controls Heating Defogging and Defrosting Rear Window Defogger...
Page 148 Comfort Controls With this system you can control the heating, air conditioning and ventilation in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow through ventilation system described later in this section. Fan Control Knob : Turn this knob to select the force of air you want.
Page 149 LEVEL: Air is directed through the upper air vents and the heater ducts. VENT: Air flows through the upper air vents. HEATER: This setting directs most of the air through the heater ducts and some of the air through the windshield defroster vents.
Page 150: Defogging And Defrosting
Defogging and Defrosting 1. Turn the air control knob to defrost. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to the desired setting. 3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed. The side window defogging works equally as well in the heater, blend and defrost modes.
Page 151: Audio Systems
Ventilation System Adjust the direction of airflow by moving the vents. Your vehicle’s flow through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the blower fan is running. For mild outside temperatures when little heating or cooling is needed, you can still direct outside air through your vehicle.
Page 152 Setting the Clock for Systems without Automatic Tone Control Press SET. SET will appear on the display for five seconds. Within five seconds, press and hold the right arrow on the SEEK button until the correct minute appears. Press and hold the left arrow on the SEEK button until the correct hour appears.
Page 153 Finding a Station FM: Press the lower knob to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Turn the lower knob to choose radio stations. SEEK: Press the right or left arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there.
Page 154 Setting the Tone BASS: Slide the lever up or down to increase or decrease bass. TREB: Slide the lever up or down to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn the control behind the upper knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers.
Page 155 CD Adapter Kits It is possible to use a CD adapter kit with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass feature on your tape player. To activate the bypass feature, use the following steps: 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACC. 2.
Page 156 Playing the Radio VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. The knob is capable of rotating continuously. RECALL: Press this button to recall the station being played.
Page 157 4. Press AUTO TONE to select the equalization that best suits the type of station selected. 5. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons. The sound will mute. When it returns, release the button. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return and the AUTO TONE equalization that you selected will also be automatically selected for that button.
Page 158 AUTO TONE: This feature allows you to choose preset bass and treble equalization settings designed for country/western, classical, news, rock, pop and jazz stations. C/W will appear on the display when you first press AUTO TONE. Each time you press it, another setting will appear on the display.
Page 159 PREV (1): Press this button or the left SEEK arrow to go to the previous selection on the tape if the current selection has been playing for less than eight seconds. If the PREV button is pressed and the current selection has been playing for more than eight seconds, it will go to the beginning of the current selection.
Page 160 CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player”...
Page 161 RECALL: Press this button to recall the station being played. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. SCV: Your system has a feature called Speed Compensated Volume (SCV). With SCV, your audio system adjusts automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive.
Page 162 P.SCAN: Press this button to listen to each of your favorite stations stored on your pushbuttons for a few seconds. The radio will scan through each of the stations stored on your pushbuttons, except those stations with weak reception. The AUTO TONE setting stored for that pushbutton will be automatically chosen.
Page 163 Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The disc should begin playing. The display will show CD and the CD symbol. If you want to insert a compact disc with the ignition off, first press RECALL or EJECT.
Page 164 FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is in the player. The letters CD will go off the display. CD AUX: Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on. A CD icon will appear on the display when the disc is in the player, whether it is active or not.
Page 165 You must first load the magazine with discs before you can play a compact disc. Each of the 12 trays holds one disc. Press the button on the back of the magazine and pull gently on one of the trays. Load the trays from bottom to top, placing a disc on the tray label side down.
Page 166 Close the door by sliding it all the way to the left. If the door is left partially open, the changer will not operate and an error will occur. When the door is closed, the changer will begin checking for discs in the magazine. This will continue for up to two minutes depending on the number of discs loaded.
Page 167 REV (4): Press and hold this button to reverse quickly through a track selection. Release it to resume playing. FWD (6): Press and hold this button to advance quickly through a track selection. Release it to resume playing. SEEK: Press the right arrow to seek to the next selection on the CD.
Page 168 Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped) THEFTLOCK is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored.
Page 169 Unlocking the Theft Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display. 2. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 3.
Page 170: Understanding Radio Reception
Understanding Radio Reception The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.
Page 171: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player.
Page 172 If your vehicle is equipped with the AM Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control: 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACC. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press and hold the TAPE AUX button for five seconds. The tape symbol on the display will flash for two seconds.
Page 173: Fixed Mast Antenna
Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.
Page 174 yellowblue NOTES 3-28...
Page 175 yellowblue NOTES 3-29...
Page 176 yellowblue NOTES 3-30...
Page 177 Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving. Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Road Recovery...
Page 178: Defensive Driving
Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.) Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.”...
Page 179: Drunken Driving
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: Judgment Muscular Coordination Vision...
Page 180 It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
Page 181 The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.
Page 182: Control Of A Vehicle
Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide.
Page 183 Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking.
Page 184 Here’s how anti lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at both rear wheels.
Page 185 Remember: Anti lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
Page 186: Braking In Emergencies
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the ASR system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may re control. (See “Cruise Control” in the Index.) When the system is on, this warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a...
Page 187: Power Steering
Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control”...
Page 188: Steering In Emergencies
Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you.
Page 189 Road Recovery You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.
Page 190 Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops.
Page 191: Loss Of Control
Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.
Page 192: Driving At Night
Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. 4-16 Here are some tips on night driving. Drive defensively.
Page 193: Night Vision
Night Vision No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50 driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night as a 20 year old.
Page 194 yellowblue Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get even less traction.
Page 195 Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them. CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents.
Page 196: Driving Through Deep Standing Water
Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.
Page 197: City Driving
City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are going.
Page 198: Freeway Driving
Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving.
Page 199: Before Leaving On A Long Trip
Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Chevrolet dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it. Here are some things you can check before a trip:...
Page 200: Highway Hypnosis
Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
Page 201 If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission.
Page 202: Winter Driving
Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your vehicle. 4-26 Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Page 203: Driving On Snow Or Ice
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip”...
Page 204 Your anti lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti Lock”...
Page 205 If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers.
Page 206: Recreational Vehicle Towing
CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe.
Page 207: Loading Your Vehicle
Loading Your Vehicle Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. The Tire Loading Information label found on the rear edge of the driver’s door tells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation pressures for the tires on your vehicle.
Page 208 CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash.
Page 209: Towing A Trailer
Towing a Trailer CAUTION: If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured.
Page 210: If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points: There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving.
Page 211: Weight Of The Trailer Tongue
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Chevrolet Motor Division Customer Assistance Department P.O. Box 7047 Troy, MI 48007 7047 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre...
Page 212: Safety Chains
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Tire-Loading label at the rear edge of the driver’s door or see “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.
Page 213: Driving With A Trailer
Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.
Page 214: Turn Signals When Towing A Trailer
When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring.
Page 215: Maintenance When Trailer Towing
But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into PARK (P) yet, or into gear for a manual transmission. 2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels. 3.
Page 216 yellowblue NOTES 4-40...
Page 217 Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers Other Warning Devices Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating Cooling System If a Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire Compact Spare Tire If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud,...
Page 218: Hazard Warning Flashers
Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press the button in to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.
Page 219: Jump Starting
Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle.
Page 220 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.
Page 221 5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative ( ) will go to an unpainted, metal engine part.
Page 222 8. Now connect the black negative ( the good battery’s negative ( Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative ( ) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.
Page 223: Towing Your Vehicle
A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery Towing Your Vehicle CAUTION: To help avoid serious personal injury to you or others: Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured.
Page 224: Engine Overheating
With current trends in automotive styles and design, it is essential that the correct towing equipment is used to tow a vehicle. Your vehicle can be towed with wheel or car carrier equipment. Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your vehicle towed.
Page 225 yellowblue If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
Page 226: If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
NOTICE: If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. If your vehicle has the 5.7L V8 engine, see “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode”...
Page 227: Cooling System
Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: A. Electric Engine Cooling Fans B. Radiator Pressure Cap C. Coolant Recovery Tank CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you.
Page 228 When it is cool, remove the coolant recovery tank cap and look at the dipstick. The coolant level should be at FULL COLD. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
Page 229 NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX COOL (silicate free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX COOL is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine coolant will require change sooner 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first.
Page 230 NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. 5-14 CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
Page 231 yellowblue CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap even a little they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot.
Page 232: How To Add Coolant To The Radiator
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator (3800 V6 Engine Only) NOTICE: Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged. 5-16 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.
Page 233 CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine. 3. After the engine cools, open the coolant air bleed valve. 3800 V6 engine: There is one bleed valve.
Page 234 5. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL COLD mark. 6. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off. 5-18 7. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot.
Page 235 9. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this. How to Add Coolant to the Radiator (V8 Engine Only) 1.
Page 236 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
Page 237 yellowblue 7. Shut the engine off and replace the pressure cap. Be 8. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the sure the arrows on the cap line up like this. proper level. 5-21...
Page 238: If A Tire Goes Flat
If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side.
Page 239: Removing The Spare Tire And Tools
The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is in the rear area behind the trim panel on the passenger’s side. First you must remove the cargo cover. See “Cargo Cover”...
Page 240 yellowblue Find the plastic screw heads in the trim panel over the spare tire. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare. Use a coin or a key to turn the screw heads until the slots point front and back to the unlock position.
Page 241 The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheel wrench (B). The jack has a bolt at the end. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack bolt. Turn the wheel wrench clockwise to raise the lift head a little. If your wheel has a center cap, pry it off using the wheel wrench.
Page 242: Spare Tire
If your vehicle has a bolt on wheel cover, loosen the plastic caps using the wheel wrench and remove the wheel cover. If your vehicle has optional alloy wheels, each wheel may have one locknut in place of the standard wheel nut.
Page 243 yellowblue 2. Position the jack under the vehicle. There is a notch in the vehicle’s rocker flange on the coupe model. Raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch nearest the flat tire. On convertible models, place the jack in a similar location.
Page 244 3. Stay away from the moldings or fender flanges to avoid damaging them. Put the compact spare tire near you. 5-28 CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed.
Page 245 CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall. To help avoid personal injury and vehicle damage, be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising the vehicle.
Page 246 6. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident.
Page 247 8. Lower the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. 9. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off.
Page 248 NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. NOTICE: Wheel covers won’t fit on your compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare.
Page 249 Replace the jack, wheel wrench and flat tire using the storage instructions. When you replace the trim panel, be sure to tuck it under the weatherstrip. 1. Trim Panel 2. Bolt 3. Cover 4. Jack 5. Wing Nut 6. Adapter 7.
Page 250: Compact Spare Tire
Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.
Page 251: Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will need to spin the wheels, but you don’t want to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.
Page 252 yellowblue NOTES 5-36...
Page 253 Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
Page 254: Doing Your Own Service Work
Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll...
Page 255 CAUTION: You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.
Page 256 (See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.) If this occurs, return to your authorized Chevrolet dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
Page 257: Fuels In Foreign Countries
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel.
Page 258: Filling Your Tank
Filling Your Tank The cap is behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of your vehicle. CAUTION: Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle.
Page 259 CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather.
Page 260: Checking Things Under The Hood
Filling a Portable Fuel Container CAUTION: Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs.
Page 261: Hood Release
Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle located inside the vehicle below the instrument panel on the driver’s side. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the hood release located at the center area of the hood. Lift the hood.
Page 262 When you open the hood of the 3800 V6 engine you’ll see: A. Engine Coolant Reservoir B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Oil Fill Cap E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (If Equipped) 6-10 F. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir G.
Page 263 When you open the hood of the 5.7L V8 engine you’ll see: A. Engine Coolant Reservoir B. Battery C. Engine Oil Dipstick D. Engine Oil Fill Cap E. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick (If Equipped) F. Engine Cooling Fans G. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir yellowblue H.
Page 264: Engine Oil
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on. Then pull the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil If the LOW OIL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.
Page 265: Checking Engine Oil
yellowblue Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level. 5.7L V8 Engine 3800 V6 Engine 6-13...
Page 266: When To Add Engine Oil
When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD line, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications”...
Page 267 yellowblue As shown in the chart, if you have the 5.7L V8 engine, SAE 5W 30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can 30 if it’s going to be 0 _ F ( 18 _ C) or use SAE 10W above.
Page 268 3800 V6 Engine 6-16 As shown in the chart, if you have the 3800 V6 engine, SAE 10W 30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can 30 if it’s going to be colder than 60 _ F use SAE 5W (16 _ C) before your next oil change.
Page 269: Engine Oil Additives
Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage, but on engine revolutions and engine operating temperature.
Page 270 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. 6-18 CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires.
Page 271 Air Filter Replacement To remove the air filter: 1. Unlatch the two clamps located on the front of the filter. 2. Lift the cover and remove the air filter. 3. Replace the filter. yellowblue 6-19...
Page 272: Automatic Transmission Fluid
4. Close the cover without overlap (clamp will not latch with overlap) and latch the clamps. 6-20 Automatic Transmission Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transmission fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 15,000 miles (25 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:...
Page 273: How To Check
How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transmission.
Page 274 Checking the Fluid Level Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range.
Page 275 1. The red transmission dipstick is located near the back of the engine. Flip the handle up and then pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. 2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again.
Page 276: How To Add Fluid
3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the COLD area, below the cross-hatched area, for a cold check or in the HOT area or cross hatched area for a hot check. 4.
Page 277 How to Check Because this operation can be difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Chevrolet dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading.
Page 278: When To Check And What To Use
How to Add Fluid Here’s how to add fluid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 1. Remove the filler plug. 2. Add fluid at the filler plug hole. Add only enough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the bottom of the filler plug hole.
Page 279: Rear Axle
Rear Axle When to Check and Change Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant and when to change it. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. How to Check Lubricant If the level is below the bottom of the filler plug hole, you’ll need to add some lubricant.
Page 280: Engine Coolant
Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. When you replace your thermostat, a GM thermostat is recommended. Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with COOL R engine coolant.
Page 281 What to Use Use a mixture of one half clean, drinkable water and half DEX COOL coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous.
Page 282: Checking Coolant
Checking Coolant The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, check the dipstick on the cap of the coolant recovery tank. The coolant level should be at COLD, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level on the dipstick should be up to HOT, or a little higher.
Page 283: Power Steering Fluid
CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. Never turn the pressure cap even a little when the engine and radiator are hot. Add coolant mixture at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.
Page 284: How To Check Power Steering Fluid
How to Check Power Steering Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
Page 285: Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Page 286: Brake Fluid
Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. It is filled with DOT brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear.
Page 287 Checking Brake Fluid You can check the brake fluid without taking off the cap. Just look at the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid level should be above the plastic seam in the reservoir (A). If it isn’t, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak.
Page 288: Brake Wear
NOTICE: Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced.
Page 289: Replacing Brake System Parts
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. When you have the front or rear brake pads replaced, have the other brakes inspected, too. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.
Page 290: Bulb Replacement
Battery Your new vehicle comes with an ACDelco Freedom battery. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend an ACDelco Freedom battery. Get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative ( the battery.
Page 291 Headlamps Before replacing a headlamp bulb that does not light, check to make sure that the wiring connector is securely fastened to it. See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to check the type of headlamp bulb you need to use before you begin to replace the headlamp bulb.
Page 292 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp 1. Remove the two screws in the stoplamp lens. 2. Gently pull the assembly out, turn the bulb counterclockwise and remove the bulb from the back of the assembly. 3. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. 6-40 Rear Lamps To change any rear bulb, you have to remove the...
Page 293 4. Pull the assembly off from the outside. 5. To remove a socket with a tab, press the tab and turn the socket counterclockwise. To remove a socket without a tab, turn the socket counterclockwise. 6. Pull the bulb from the socket. 7.
Page 294: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
3. Turn the bulb and socket counterclockwise and gently pull out. 4. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Wiper Blade Check”...
Page 295 Wiper Blade Element Replacement To replace the wiper blade element, follow these steps: 1. Locate the heel end of the wiper blade assembly that has the two notches held by the wiper blade claw. 2. Hold the wiper blade assembly with one hand and pull the element gently with the other hand.
Page 296 Your new vehicle comes with high a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Chevrolet Warranty booklet for details. CAUTION: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
Page 297 Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire Loading Information label, which is on the driver’s door, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
Page 298: Tire Inspection And Rotation
When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa). How to Check Use a good quality pocket type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them.
Page 299 If you have P245/50ZR16 Goodyear Eagle GS or P275/40ZR17 Goodyear Eagle F1 must roll in a certain direction for the best overall performance. The direction is shown by an arrow on the sidewall. Because these tires are directional, they should be rotated as shown here.
Page 300: Buying New Tires
When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire.
Page 301: Uniform Tire Quality Grading
CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial and bias belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle.
Page 302 Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
Page 303: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance. Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are not needed. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the alignment may need to be reset.
Page 304: Tire Chains
Used Replacement Wheels CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.
Page 305: Appearance Care
Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions.
Page 306: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems
Here are some cleaning tips: Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. Clean up stains as soon as you can Carefully scrape off any excess stain. Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn.
Page 307: Cleaning Leather
Fabric Protection Your vehicle has upholstery and carpet fabric that has been treated with Scotchgard Fabric Protector, a 3M product. It protects fabrics by repelling oil and water, which are the carriers of most stains. Even with this protection, you still need to clean your upholstery and carpet often to keep it looking new.
Page 308: Care Of Safety Belts
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. CAUTION: Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Page 309: Washing Your Vehicle
Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required. (See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”...
Page 310: Finish Care
Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.) Your vehicle has a “basecoat/clearcoat”...
Page 311: Cleaning Tires
To protect the convertible top: After you wash the vehicle, make sure the top is completely dry before you lower it. Don’t get any cleaner on the vehicle’s painted finish; it could leave streaks. If you decide to go through an automatic car wash, ask the manager if the equipment could damage your top.
Page 312: Sheet Metal Damage
Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Chevrolet will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase, whichever occurs first.
Page 313 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials PART NUMBER SIZE 994954 23 in. x 25 in. 1050172 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1050173 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1050174 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1050214 32 oz. (0.946 L) 1050427 23 oz. (0.680 L) 1052918** 8 oz. (0.237 L) 1052925 16 oz.
Page 314 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certificates of title and registration.
Page 315: Electrical System
Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Some add on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should.
Page 316 There are three fuse centers on your vehicle. One (main fuse block) is located behind a cover in the left side of your instrument panel. 6-64 The other two are in the engine compartment. Open the cover on either of the boxes to expose the fuses. Look at the silver colored band inside the fuse.
Page 317 Main Fuse Block Fuse Usage STOP/HAZARD Hazard Flashers, Brake Switch Assembly TURN B/U Traction Control/Second Start Switch, Back Switch, Turn Flasher, Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) Module Fuse STG WHL CNTRL RADIO ACCY TAIL LPS HVAC PWR ACCY COURTESY GAUGES Gear AIR BAG Up Lamp CIG/ACCY...
Page 318 Fuse Usage DEFOG/SEATS Rear Defogger Switch/Timer, Power Seats Aftermarket Use Only STG WHL Steering Wheel Controls CNTRL WIPER/WASH Wiper Motor Assembly, Wiper/Washer Switch BATT Aftermarket Use Only WINDOWS Power Windows Switch (RH, LH), Express Down Module, Convertible Top Switch IP DIMMER Door Illumination Lamp (LH, RH), Headlamp Switch, Fog Lamp Switch, Instrument Cluster, HVAC...
Page 319 Fuse Usage AIR PUMP Air Pump Relay and Bleed Valve LH HDLP DR Left Headlamp Door and Module RH HDLP DR Right Headlamp Door and Module HORN Horn Relay ABS BAT Anti Lock Brake System Module H/L DR HORN Horn and Headlamp Doors ABS BAT Anti Lock Brake and Traction...
Page 320 Fuse and Relay Center 2 Fuse Usage Fuel Injectors (Not Used for V6) (LH Injectors for V8 and Ignition Module) Fuel Injectors (All for V6) (RH Injectors for V8 and Ignition Module) 6-68 Fuse Usage ENG SEN Mass Air Flow, Heated Oxygen Sensor, Skip Shift Solenoid (V8 Only), Reverse Lockout Solenoid, Brake Switch...
Page 321: Replacement Bulbs
Fuse Usage HVAC Blower Control and Relay Ignition Switch, Relay and Starter Enable Relay Instrument Panel Fuse Center Relay Description AIR SOL Air Solenoid AIR PUMP Air Pump A/C COMP Air Conditioning Compressor FUEL PUMP Fuel Pump STARTER Starter Engine Controls, Cruise Control, Air Conditioning Replacement Bulbs Back...
Page 322 Capacities and Specifications The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. Please refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index for more information. Air Conditioning . . . See the refrigerant information label under the hood. Automatic Transmission Drain and Refill .
Page 323: Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure, ask your dealer. Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Filter .
Page 324 yellowblue NOTES 6-72...
Page 325 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance. Introduction How This Section is Organized...
Page 326: Your Vehicle And The Environment
Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 X–07–0701–S X–07–0702–S Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet, or your dealer for details. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment...
Page 327: How This Section Is Organized
Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 How This Section is Organized This maintenance schedule is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services can be complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service department or another qualified...
Page 328: Using Your Maintenance Schedule
Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we don’t know exactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very short distances only a few times a week.
Page 329: Scheduled Maintenance
Scheduled Maintenance The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km).
Page 330 Scheduled Maintenance 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 331 Scheduled Maintenance – When doing frequent trailer towing. – Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km). Rotate tires.
Page 332 Scheduled Maintenance 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) (Continued) Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90 C) or higher. –...
Page 333 Scheduled Maintenance 37,500 Miles (62 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 334 Scheduled Maintenance 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) (Continued) – When doing frequent trailer towing. – Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km).
Page 335 Scheduled Maintenance 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: –...
Page 336 Scheduled Maintenance 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 337 Scheduled Maintenance – When doing frequent trailer towing. – Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km). Rotate tires.
Page 338 Scheduled Maintenance 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) (Continued) – In hilly or mountainous terrain. – When doing frequent trailer towing. – Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, change the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km).
Page 339 Scheduled Maintenance 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) Inspect spark plug wires. An Emission Control Service. Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. If you haven’t used your vehicle under severe service conditions listed previously and, therefore, haven’t changed your automatic transmission fluid, change both the fluid and filter.
Page 340: At Least Once A Month
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed in this part are owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in Part D.
Page 341 Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.) Wiper Blade Check Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade inserts that appear worn or damaged or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
Page 342 Starter Switch Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2.
Page 343 Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. With an automatic transmission, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). With a manual transmission, the key should turn to LOCK only when you press the key release button.
Page 344: Exhaust System Inspection
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed in this part are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your dealer’s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs.
Page 345: Throttle System Inspection
Throttle System Inspection (Except 3800 Series V6 Engine) Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding, and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed. Replace any components that have high effort or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and cruise control cables.
Page 346 Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your dealer. USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Engine Oil Engine Oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol of the proper viscosity.
Page 347 USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Floor Shift Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol Linkage (GM Part No. 12346293 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2 Category LB or GC Rear Axle SAE 75W 90 Synthetic Axle (Standard Lubricant (GM Part Differential) No. 12378261) or equivalent meeting GM Specification 9986115.
Page 348: Maintenance Record
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from “Owner Checks and ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY READING 7-24 Services”...
Page 349 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-25...
Page 350 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-26...
Page 351 Section 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Chevrolet if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects. Customer Satisfaction Procedure Customer Assistance for Text Telephone...
Page 352 Customer Satisfaction Procedure Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your dealer and to Chevrolet. Normally, any concerns with the sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
Page 353 Dealership name and location Vehicle delivery date and present mileage When contacting Chevrolet, please remember that your concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s facility. That is why we suggest you follow Step One first if you have a concern.
Page 354: Customer Assistance Offices
Customer Assistance Offices free telephone Chevrolet encourages customers to call the toll-free number for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes to write to Chevrolet, the letter should be addressed to Chevrolet’s Customer Assistance Center. United States Chevrolet Motor Division Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center P.O.
Page 355: All Overseas Locations
Canada General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 1-800-263-3777 (English) 1-800-263-7854 (French) 1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs)) Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800 All Overseas Locations GMODC Customer Communication Centre 169-007 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 Telephone: 905-644-4112 Fax:...
Page 356 To enhance Chevrolet’s strong commitment to customer satisfaction, Chevrolet is excited to announce the establishment of the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center. As the owner of a 1999 Chevrolet, membership in Roadside Assistance is free. Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day,...
Page 357: Canadian Roadside Assistance
Courtesy Transportation will be offered in conjunction with the coverage provided by the Bumper to Bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty to eligible purchasers of 1999 Chevrolet passenger cars and light duty trucks. (Please see your selling dealer for details.)
Page 358: Courtesy Transportation
Transportation Options Warranty service can generally be completed while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait Chevrolet helps minimize your inconvenience by providing several transportation options. Depending on the circumstances,...
Page 359: Warranty Information
Courtesy Rental Vehicle When your vehicle is unavailable due to overnight warranty repairs, your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of $30.00 per day supported by receipts.
Page 360 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying General Motors.
Page 361: Reporting Safety Defects To General Motors
Please call us at 1 1020, or write: Chevrolet Motor Division Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 7047 Troy, MI 48007 7047 In Canada, please call us at 1 or 1 7854 (French).
Page 362 1999 CHEVROLET SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order, or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.)
Page 363 ORDER TOLL FREE (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-551-4123 (Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST) FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927 PUBLICATION FORM PUBLICATION FORM NUMBER NUMBER Service Manual Car & Light Truck Transmission Unit Repair Owner’s Manual In Portfolio Owner’s Manual Without Portfolio NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent.
Page 364 yellowblue NOTES 8-14...
Page 365 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Section 9 Index cceleration Slip Regulation System Warning Light ......
Page 366 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 attery ........
Page 367 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Chemical Paint Spotting ............
Page 368 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 amage, Finish .......
Page 369 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 abric/Carpet Cleaning ........... .
Page 370 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Headlamps ........
Page 371 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Exterior ........
Page 372 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Methanol ........
Page 373 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Power Steering Fluid .......
Page 374 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Safety Belts (Continued) ......Questions and Answers Rear Seat Passenger Positions .
Page 375 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Storage Compartments ...........
Page 376 Second Printing for Chevrolet Camaro Owner’s Manual – 1999 Transmission Fluid, Automatic ......... . .

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