Chevrolet 1997 Cavalier Owner's Manual page 352

Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI) Check
(Automatic Transaxle)
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. It should be parked on a
level surface.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake (see "Parking Brake"
in the Index if necessary).
NOTE: Be ready to apply the regular brake
immediately if the vehicle begins to move.
3. With the engine off, turn the key to the RUN
position, but don't start the engine. Without applying
the regular brake, try to move the shift lever out of
PARK (P)
with normal effort. If the shift lever
moves
out of PARK
(P), your vehicle's BTSI
needs service.
Ignition Transaxle 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 transaxle, the key should turn to
LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P).
0
With a manual transaxle, the key should turn
to LOCK only when the shift lever is in
REVERSE (R).
On vehicles with a key release button, try to turn the key
to LOCK without pressing the button. The key should
turn to LOCK only when you press the key button.
On all vehicles, the key should come out only in LOCK.
Turn the steering wheel to the left and to the right. It
should only lock when turned to the right.