Page 2 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- 10.
Page 3: For Canadian Owners Who Prefer A French Language Manual
“General Motors of Canada Limited” for Chevrolet Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your Chevrolet, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.
Page 4 CORVETTE: THE AMERICAN DREAM MACHINE In the early ’50s, it was only a designer’s dream. Today the Corvette stands alone as America’s dream car testament to its unmistakable charisma and the excitement it inspires. Unique styling, powerful performance and an undeniable panache have made Corvette one of the most celebrated sports cars in the world.
Page 5 In 1963, Corvette hit the road with an eye-catching new look the Sting Ray coupe. An instant success, the now-classic Sting Ray featured concealed headlamps and a unique split rear window. The split window would only be offered in 1963, making this model among the most prized Corvettes ever built.
Page 6 Supplement to the 1997 Chevrolet Corvette Owner’s Manual This text under “Remote HatchlTrunk Lid Release may replace the manual release cable information located Section 2 of your Owner’s Manual. Locate the manual release cables are located in the slots o f the bottom of the latch trim covers (underneath the center storage compartment the trunk area), refer to page 2-14 in your Owner’s...
Page 8 For its 25th anniversary, the 1978 Corvette paced the 62nd Annual Indianapolis 500 and received a new fastback roofline with a wide expanse of glass that wrapped around the sides.
Page 9 In 1984, the fourth generation of America’s favorite sports car anticipated the future with a sleek look and advanced technology that provided superior handling and performance. Windshield angle was the sheerest of any domestic vehicle, cornering ability the tightest of any production car.
Page 10 The Corvette Assembly Plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky is one of the most sophisticated and computerized automobile assembly facilities in the world. To build your 1997 Corvette, over 1,000 employes teamed up with the 58 high-tech robots that assist in a variety of processes, from welding to painting.
Page 11: 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 12: Vehicle Damage Warnings
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 13 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 PROTECT UNLOCK...
Page 14: Section 1 Seats And Restraint Systems
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Corvette 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 Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone 1-10...
Page 15: Seats And Seat Controls
Seats and Seat Controls This part tells you about the seats and also about reclining seatbacks and seatback latches. Manual Front Seat (Option) (Passenger Only) Pull up on the lever in front of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body to make sure the seat is locked into place.
Page 16: Reclining Seatbacks
Sport Seat (Option) In addition to the power seat control, there are three other switches that help you change the shape of your seat. There are two lumbar supports (A and B) for the middle and lower back. There’s also a side bolster switch (C) that adjusts the sides of the seat around you to give you more lateral support.
Page 17 But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. 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 because it won’t be against your body.
Page 18: Seatback Latches
Seatback Latches Both seatbacks fold forward to give you access to the rear area. To fold a seatback forward, lift this latch and pull the seatback forward. The seatback will lock down in this position. To unlock, lift up on the latch and push the seatback rearward.
Page 19: Safety Belts: They're For Everyone
Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the air bag system. CAUT-ON: Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly.
Page 20: Why Safety Belts Work
Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.) In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.
Page 21 Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.
Page 22 . . . or the instrument panel . The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
Page 23: About Safety Belts And The Answers
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. Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers...
Page 24: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly
If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault your passenger can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers.
Page 25: Driver Position
Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats’? in the so you can sit up straight. 1-12 wear Index)
Page 26 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Page 27 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. 1-14 ,-I__ -----------n*>. 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.
Page 28 What’s wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place. 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 29 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. 1-16 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 30 What’s wrong with this? 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 31: 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 32: Passenger Position
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 33 CAUTION: Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags.
Page 34: How The Air Bag System Works
How the Air Bag System Works Where are the air bags? The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. is in the instrument panel on the The passenger's air bag passenger's side. 1-21...
Page 35 CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or 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 36 How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, 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 37 Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system.
Page 38: Smaller Children And Babies
Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. 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: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash at only kmlh), a 12-1b.
Page 40: Top Strap
Child Restraints 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 41 Your vehicle has a passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this vehicle. Here’s why: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag.
Page 42 6. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the retractor to set the lock. safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-29...
Page 43: Larger Children
7. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. 8. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way.
Page 44 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. &.”...
Page 45 1-32 CAUTION: I - - Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-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 46: 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 47: Replacing Restraint System Parts After A Crash
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. 1-34 If you ever see a label on the driver’s or passenger’s safety belt that says to replace the belt, be sure to do so.
Page 48 NOTES 1-35...
Page 49 NOTES 1-36...
Page 50: Section 2 Features And Controls
Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Corvette, 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 51 Leaving young 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 young children.
Page 52 If your key doesn’t have a tag and you need a locks. new ignition key, go to your Chevrolet dealer for the correct key code. If you ever do get locked out of your vehicle, call the Chevrolet Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-CHEV-USA.
Page 53: 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 54: Power Door Locks
Power Door Locks Press the power door unlocMlock switch on either door to lock or unlock both doors at once. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door.
Page 55 The MEMORY buttons are located on the driver’s side door, above the power mirror buttons. The MEMORY buttons can store and recall the vehicle settings for up to three drivers. Use button “1” to store the vehicle settings for the first driver, button “2” for a second driver or press buttons 1 and 2 simultaneously for a third driver.
Page 56 LOCK and UNLOCK buttons for seven seconds when standing next to the vehicle. If you’re still having trouble, see your Chevrolet dealer or a qualified technician for service. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
Page 57: Operation
Operation You don’t have to do anything for the RFA to work when the passive feature is ON. You can turn on the passive feature by moving the transmitter’s slider switch to ON. Now, when you move toward your vehicle with the key fob transmitter, the system will automatically disarm your theft-deterrent system and unlock the doors.
Page 58 The system has a feature that makes it difficult for you to lock your keys in your vehicle. If you leave your keys in the ignition and attempt to lock the doors, the vehicle will not lock and a chime will sound to remind you that the keys are in the ignition.
Page 59 Turning the Passive System Off You can disable the passive feature by moving the transmitter’s slider switch to OFF. The vehicle will no longer automatically disarm your theft-deterrent system or unlock the doors, however, you will be able to actively control use of the door locks, the hatch release and the panic alarm using the four transmitter buttons.
Page 60: Matching Transmitter(S) To Your Vehicle
Resynchronizing Your Transmitter Your W A system uses a continually changing code for increased security. Normally, the receiver in your vehicle will keep track of this changing code. If your vehicle does not respond to your transmitter, do the following to determine what’s wrong: 1.
Page 61: Battery Replacement
5. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter simultaneously for 6. When a transmitter is learned, the DIC will display FOB LEARNED and then prompt you to learn the next transmitter. 7. Repeat Steps 5 and 6 for each additional transmitter. 8.
Page 62 Replacing Your Battery 1. Insert a coin into the slot on the back of the transmitter and gently pry apart the front and back. 2. Gently pull the battery out of the transmitter. 3. Put the new battery in the transmitter, positive side up.
Page 63 Remote Hatch Release Press the’ button with the trunk symbol on it, at the left side of the steering column on the instrument panel, to release the hatch from inside your vehicle. The key fob transmitter will also release the hatch. See “Remote Function Actuation System”...
Page 64 It ca-- 3e 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 65: Key In The Ignition
Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your Corvette and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you.
Page 66: Testing The Alarm
The theft-deterrent system won’t arm if you lock the doors with a key, the manual door lock, or if you power lock (from the inside) the vehicle after the doors are closed. If your passenger stays in the vehicle when you leave with the keys, have the passenger lock the vehicle after the doors are closed.
Page 67 Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Chevrolet dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key.
Page 68 If the resistor pellet is damaged or missing, the starter won’t work. Use the other ignition key, and see your Chevrolet dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key to have a new key made. If the SECURITY light comes on while driving, have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible.
Page 69: Ignition Switch
Ignition Switch With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions. 2-20 OFF: The only position from which you can remove the key. Removing the key locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission. If you have an automatic transmission, the ignition switch can’t be turned to OFF unless the shift lever is in PARK (P).
Page 70: Retained Accessory Power (Rap)
START Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to ON for normal driving. When the engine is not running, ACC and ON allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio. A warning tone will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in OFF or ACC and the key is in the ignition.
Page 71: Starting Your Engine
Starting Your Engine Automatic Transmission Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Corvette is moving.
Page 72 When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or -18”C), do this: 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to START and hold it there. When the engine starts, let go of the key. Use the accelerator pedal to maintain engine speed, if you have to, until your engine has run for a while.
Page 73: Racing Or Other Competitive Driving
Racing or Other Competitive Driving See your Warranty Book before using your Corvette for racing or other competitive driving. NOTICE: If you use your Corvette for racing or other competitive driving, your engine may use more oil than it would with normal use. Low oil levels can damage the engine.
Page 74 Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your Chevrolet dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.
Page 75: Automatic Transmission Operation
Automatic Transmission Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This locks your rear wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the PARK (P) with the shift lever is not fully in parking brake firmly set.
Page 76 (If you do not apply the brake after 15 seconds once the ignition is turned on, you will receive a PRESS BRAKE! BEFORE SHIFT message in the Driver Information Center.) See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your...
Page 77 (0): AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE for normal driving. THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE When driving on hilly, winding roads.
Page 78: Manual Transmission Operation
Manual Transmission Operation 6-Speed This is your shift pattern. Here’s how to operate your transmission: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 40 mph (64 km/h).’If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST (l), put the shift...
Page 79: Shift Speeds (Manual Transmission)
Shift Speeds (Manual Transmission) This chart shows when to shift to the next higher gear for best fuel economy. Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Speeds in Acceleration Shift Speed Engine 1 t o 2 Engines (24) (40) If your engine speed drops below 900 rpm, or if the engine is not running smoothly, you should downshift to the next lower gear.
Page 80: Downshifting (Manual Transmission)
After shifting to FOURTH (4), you may downshift to a lower gear if you prefer. NOTICE: Do not try to force the shift lever into SECOND (2) or THIRD (3) when the ONE TO FOUR light comes on. Do not try to re-engage FIRST (1) after starting to shift into FOURTH (4).
Page 81: Parking Brake
The six-speed transmission has a spring that centers the shift lever near THIRD (3) and FOURTH (4). This spring helps you know which gear you are in when you are shifting. Be careful when shifting from FIRST (1) to SECOND (2) or downshifting from SIXTH (6) to FIFTH (5).
Page 82: Shifting Into Park (P) (Automatic Transmission Models Only)
To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Hold the release button in as you move the brake lever all the way down. (NOTICE: Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.
Page 83 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into the PARK (P) position by holding in the button on the lever and pushing the lever all the way toward the front of your vehicle. 3.
Page 84: Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission)
Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transmission into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
Page 85: Parking Over Things That Burn
If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: Turn the key to the ACC position. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). Start the engine and then shift to the drive gear you want.
Page 86: Engine Exhaust
Engine Exhaust Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see 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. Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.
Page 87: Limited-Slip Rear Axle
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle 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 88 This knob is on the center console. Turn it to select the suspension characteristic of your choice. TOUR: Use for normal city and highway driving. Provides a smooth, soft ride. SPORT Use where road conditions or personal preference demand more control. Provides more “feel,” or response to the road conditions.
Page 89: Power Windows
Windows Power Windows With power windows, switches on the door control each window when the ignition is on or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.) 2-40 Express-Down Window Both the driver’s and passenger’s window switches have an express-down feature.
Page 90: Tilt Wheel
Tilt Wheel A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel. 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 toward you.
Page 91 ’lhrn and Lane Change Signals 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 multifunction lever all the way up or down.
Page 92 Headlamps The headlamp band controls these lamps: on your parking lamps. 2-43...
Page 93: Lamps On Reminder
Headlamp Doors The headlamp doors are designed to open when you turn the headlamps on, and close when you turn the headlamps and parking lamps off. The headlamp doors will stay open if the headlamps are on and then the headlamp switch is turned back to the parking lamps setting.
Page 94: Windshield Wipers
Headlamp HigWLow Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, push the turn signal lever all the way forward. When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel also will be on. To change the headlamps from high to low, pull the lever rearward.
Page 95: Windshield Washer
You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Push the lever up to INT (intermittent), then turn the band, located on the lever, to adjust the delay time. Rotate the band up for a shorter delay, down for a longer delay.
Page 96: Cruise Control
Cruise Control With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 k m 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).
Page 97 Setting Cruise Control If you leave your cruise control switch you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use it. 1.
Page 98 Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake or clutch pedal. This, of course, disengages the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 you can move the cruise control switch to FUA (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second.
Page 99 Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: Push in the button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. The DIC will display the cruise set speed. To slow down in very small amounts, push the button for less than half a second.
Page 100 When the DRL are on, only your front turn signal lamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps will not be on. When you turn on your headlamps, your front turn signal lamps (DRL) will go out. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on.
Page 101: Interior Lamps
Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness Control This button controls the brightness of your instrument panel lights when your headlamps or parking lamps are on. Push and release the button and it will pop out. Turn the button clockwise (to the right) to brighten the lights or counter clockwise (to the left) to dim them.
Page 102: Reading Lamps
Reading Lamps Your inside rearview mirror includes two reading lamps. The lamps will go on when a door is opened. When the doors are closed and the ignition is on, each lamp can be turned on individually by moving the switch (each lamp has its own switch) to ON.
Page 103: Power Remote Control Mirrors
Power Remote Control Mirrors The electric mirror control is on the driver’s door. To adjust either mirror, press the LT (left) or RT (right) switch to select the mirror, then press the arrows to adjust the direction of the mirror. The selected mirror will stay on for 20 seconds after the last adjustment.
Page 104: Center Console
Center Console To use this storage area, pull up the lid on the driver’s side front edge of the console and swing it to the passenger’s side. You can use the key to lock and unlock the console. Don’t leave the key in the lock, or it could be damaged when the driver sits down.
Page 105: Rear Storage
Rear Storage There are three rear storage compartments in the floor of the rear hatch area. To access the center storage compartment, pull up on the two latches to release the carpet lid. Remove the carpet lid. There are two other storage compartments, one on each side of the center compartment.
Page 106: Convenience Net (Option)
NOTICE: If your Corvette has a compact disc player, it is stored in the center rear storage compartment. To help avoid damage to the compact disc player, do not store items such as liquids or sharp objects that could puncture or cut the compact disc player or wiring.
Page 107: Visor Vanity Mirror
To use the lighter, push it in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself. NOTICE: Don’t hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating. If you do, it won’t be able to back away from the heating element when it’s ready.
Page 108 Be sure to follow the installation instructions included with the equipment. Replace the cap when the outlet is not in use. NOTICE: When using the accessory outlet: The maximum load of any electrical equipment should not exceed 15 amps. Be sure to turn off any electrical equipment when not in use.
Page 109: Removing The Roof Panel
How to Remove and Replace the Floor Mats To remove the floor mats, pull up on the rear of the mat to disconnect from the locator hooks. To reinstall the floor mats, line up the openings in the floor mat over the locator hooks and push down into place.
Page 110 NOTICE: To avoid damage to the roof panel, paint and weatherstripping do not drop or rest it on its edges. Place the roof panel in the egg-shaped stowage receivers after removing it from the vehicle. 2. Open the rear liftgate and remove any items that may interfere with proper storage of the roof panel.
Page 111 3. Lower the windows and open the doors. There are two latches on the front of the roof panel near each door (A), and one rear latch (B). 4. To unlock the front of the roof panel, pull down each of the front handles.
Page 112 5. To unlock the rear of the roof panel, press the latch release button with your thumb and pull down the latch lever with your fingers. 6. After releasing the latches, return the sun visors to the forward position. Stand on one side of the vehicle and, if necessary, have your helper stand on the other side.
Page 113: Storing The Roof Panel
Storing the Roof Panel L! ! ! CAUTION: If the roof 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 roof panel in the vehicle, always be sure that it is stored securely in the rear area using the storage pins.
Page 114 3 . There are two spring-loaded storage pins on the rear wall of the storage compartment (A). These storage pins go into the slots on each side of the roof panel (B). 4. Gently lower the roof panel onto the carpet ledge. Then, pull each release rearward and upward to place the storage pins into the holes of the roof panel.
Page 115: Installing The Roof Panel
Installing the Roof Panel An improperly attached roof panel may fall into or fly off the vehicle. You or others could be injured. After installing the roof panel, always check that it is firmly attached by pushing up on the underside of the panel. Check now and then to be sure the roof panel is firmly in place.
Page 116 Position the rear edge of the roof panel to the weatherstrip on the back of the roof opening (A). Then align the pins at the rear of the roof panel weatherstrip with the receiving cup in the body weatherstrip (B). Gently lower the front edge of the roof panel to the front of the body opening (C).
Page 117 lnstrurnent Panel 2-68...
Page 118 A. Turn SignalNultifunction Lever B. Driver Information Center (DIC) C. Instrument Panel Cluster D. Windshield WiperNVasher Lever DIC Buttons F. Hazard Warning Flasher Button G. Center Air Vent H. Audio System I. Comfort Controls J. Fog Lamp Button (Option) K. Remote Hatch Release Button L.
Page 119: Instrument Panel Cluster
Instrument Panel Cluster Your instrument cluster and Driver Information Center (DIC) are designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel you have left and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically.
Page 120 Speedometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in either miles per hour (mph) or kilometers per hour (km/h). You may note that there are not two separate scales km/h. for mph and When you press the E M (EnglisMetric) button on the DIC, the cluster will calculate the proper speed and move the needle to the correct position.
Page 121: Safety Belt Reminder Light
Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to ON or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on until the driver’s belt is buckled.
Page 122: Brake System Warning Light
Voltmeter When the key is in the ON position with the engine not running, the voltmeter shows the voltage output of your battery. When the engine is running, it shows the voltage output of the charging system. The reading will change as the rate of charge changes (with engine speed, for example), but if the voltmeter reads at 9 volts or below, your instrument panel and...
Page 123: Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
If the light comes on while you are driving, and you have a LOW BRAKE FLUID message showing on the DIC, 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.
Page 124: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
Traction Control System (TCS) Light This light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. If it stays on, or comes on and the DIC shows a SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM message when you’re driving, there’s a problem with your TCS system and your vehicle needs service.
Page 125: Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light)
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) Your Corvette is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. CHECK This system is called OBD I1 (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment.
Page 126 If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: Reducing vehicle speed. Avoiding hard accelerations. Avoiding steep uphill grades. If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle.
Page 127: Engine Oil Pressure Gage
Engine Oil Pressure Gage The engine oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) or W a (kilopascals) when the engine is running. Oil pressure should be 20 to 80 psi (140 to 550 Wa). (In certain situations such as long, extended idles on hot days, it could read as low as 6 psi (40 kPa) and still be considered normal.) It may vary with engine speed,...
Page 128: Security Light
Security Light This light comes on to remind you to arm your theft-deterrent system. If it comes on and stays on when your ignition is on, there SECURITY may be a problem with your theft-deterrent system. See “Universal Theft-Deterrent” and “PASS-Key System”...
Page 129 Fuel Gage Your fuel gage shows about how much fuel is in your tank. When the needle approaches the red zone, RESERVE FUEL will appear on the Driver Information Center (DIC) display. When the needle approaches the “E”, LOW FUEL will appear on the display. Press RESET to let the vehicle know that you have acknowledged a DIC message(s).
Page 130: Driver Information Center (Dic)
Driver Information Center (DIC) The Driver Information Center (DIC) will display information about how your vehicle is functioning, as well as warning messages if a system problem is detected. The DIC display area is located in the instrument cluster below the speedometer and tachometer, directly above the steering column.
Page 131: Dic Controls And Displays
DIC Controls and Displays Turn on the system by turning the ignition to ON. When you turn on the ignition, the DIC will be in the mode last displayed when the engine was turned off. Each DIC button allows you to scroll through a menu. A blank page ends each menu.
Page 132 Press FUEL again to display instantaneous fuel economy, such as: INST. 20.1 MPG or INST. 5.3 WlOO Press FUEL again to display the range, such as: RANGE 20 MI or RANGE 32 The range calculates the remaining distance you can drive without refueling.
Page 133 Press the GAGE button again to display the coolant temperature, such as: F or COOLANT TEMP 123 COOLANT TEMP 51 C or Press the GAGE button again to display the transmission fluid temperature (automatics only), such as: TRANS FLUID 123 F or TRANS FLUID 51 Press the GAGE button again to display the battery...
Page 134 Odometer The odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven in either miles or kilometers. Press the TRIP button to display odometer readings such as: ODOMETER 12345 MI or ODOMETER 20008 Without the keys being in the ignition, you can also display the odometer by turning on the parking lamps.
Page 135 Average Speed Press the TRIP button until the average speed is displayed, such as: AVERAGE SPEED 62 MPH or AVERAGE SPEED 100 km/h Press reset in this mode to start calculating the average speed. Press and hold RESET to clear. Engine Oil Life Press the TRIP button until the engine oil life is displayed, such as OIL LIFE REMAIN 89%.
Page 136 4 OPTIONS This button allows you to choose personal options available with your vehicle, such as security, door locks, easy entry seats and language. Some of these functions work along with the key fob transmitter. When returning to the options menu, the first item of the options list will always be displayed, not the one you were last in when you changed buttons.
Page 137 Alarm Press the OPTIONS button until ALARM appears on the display, then use the RESET button to page through the following selections: ALARM HORN ALARM HORN & LIGHTS If you choose ALARM HORN, the horn will sound during an alarm. If you choose ALARM HORN & LIGHTS, the horn will sound and the exterior lights will flash during an alarm.
Page 138 Auto Lock Press the OPTIONS button until AUTO LOCK appears on the display, then use the RESET button to page through the following choices: AUTO LOCK ON AUTO LOCK OFF If you choose AUTO LOCK ON, both doors will automatically lock when the vehicle exceeds 10 mph krn/h) in a manual transmission.
Page 139: Dic Warnings And Messages
Languages You can select which language the DIC will display its messages in. Press the OPTIONS button until the word LANGUAGES appears on the display, then use the RESET button to page through the following choices: LANGUAGE ENGLISH LANGUAGE FRENCH LANGUAGE GERMAN LANGUAGE SPANISH Blank Page...
Page 140 ABS ACTIVE (Anti-Lock Brake System Active): When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, the ABS ACTIVE message will be displayed. Slippery road conditions may exist if this message is displayed, so adjust your driving accordingly. The message will stay on for a few seconds after the system stops adjusting brake pressure.
Page 141 REDUCED ENGINE POWER message is displayed, but acceleration and speed may be reduced. Anytime the CHECK ENGINE light stays on, the vehicle should be taken to an authorized Chevrolet dealer as soon as possible for diagnosis and repair. Also, refer to “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” (Check Engine Light) in the Index.
Page 142 TRACTION SYSTEM-ON: This message is displayed when you decide to turn on the TCS by pressing the switch on the console. This message will shut off automatically on its own. TRACTION SYSTEM-OFF: You will hear a single quick tone when this message is displayed. This message comes on and stays on when the TCS button on the console is pressed to turn the system off.
Page 143 LOW COOLANT You will hear two chimes when this message is displayed. To acknowledge the warning press RESET. After you press RESET, a message will reappear and you will hear a chime every 10 minutes until this condition changes. This message indicates that the coolant in the system is low.
Page 144 “Engine Overheating” in the Index. If the HIGH TRANS TEMP message is displayed during normal vehicle operation on flat roads, your vehicle may need service. See your Chevrolet dealer for an inspection. LOW TIRE PRESSURE (LF, LR, RF, RR): YOU will hear two chimes when this message is displayed.
Page 145 FLAT TIRE (LF, LR, RF, RR): You will hear two chimes when this message is displayed. To acknowledge the warning, press RESET. After you press RESET, a message will reappear and you will hear a chime every 10 minutes until this condition changes. This message indicates that the pressure in one of your tires is lower than 5 psi (34 Wa).
Page 146: Other Messages
SERVICE TIRE MON SYS: If this message comes on, a part on the Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) is not working properly. If you drive your vehicle while any of the four sensors are missing or inoperable, the warning will come on in approximately 10 minutes. If all four sensors are missing, the warning will come on in 15 - 20 approximately...
Page 147 NOTES 2-98...
Page 148: Section 3 Comfort Controls And Audio Systems
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 Corvette. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Comfort Controls Manual Comfort Controls Automatic Electronic Dual Climate Control System (Option)
Page 149: Comfort Controls
Comfort Controls This section tells you how to make your air system work for you. Your comfort control system uses ozone-friendly R- 134a refrigerant. With these systems you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your Corvette. Your vehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system described later in this section.
Page 150 Temperature Knob The center knob controls the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn it to the left (toward the blue area) for cooler air. Turn it to the right (toward the red area) for warmer air. Mode Knob The right knob selects the direction of where the air will enter the vehicle.
Page 151 Mode Buttons These buttons control the air intake, the air conditioning and the rear window defogger operation. FRESH AIR: Press this button and it will bring outside air into your vehicle. The light on the button will come on when operating. Use this setting while trying to defrost or defog windows to help clear moisture.
Page 152 Automatic Electronic Dual Climate Control System (Option) Your Corvette may be equipped with a Dual Zone Electronic Climate Control System. This system can automatically adjust and control temperature output, fan speed, air delivery mode, air conditioning operation and air intake. You can. use the AUTO (automatic) setting or override the automatic operation with manual control settings.
Page 153 Driver Set Temperature Knob The DRIVER knob changes the temperature on the driver's side of the vehicle. Turn the knob to the right to increase the temperature and to the left to decrease the temperature. Whenever you turn this knob, the temperature will be displayed for approximately five seconds along with the current fan speed and air delivery mode.
Page 154 A Typical Cold Weather Example: Your vehicle has been parked outside ~ v e r ~ ~ i g h t cold weather (below 32 OF/ 0" C) and you have set the driver temperature at 73 O F (23 "C) and have selected the AUTO mode.
Page 155 Manual Settings With the Dual Zone Electronic Climate Control, there are several manual settings you can use to control the system and override the AUTO operation. You can program the fan speed, air delivery mode, mode and control the air conditioning operation using these settings.
Page 156 Mode Buttons These buttons control climate control ON/OFF, air intake, front defrost, rear defrost and the air conditioning operation. FRONT Press the FRONT defrost button to quickly remove fog or frost from the windshield. This setting directs most of the airflow to the windshield and a small amount toward the lower and side window outlets.
Page 157 RECIRCULATE: Press this button to limit the amount of fresh air entering the vehicle. The light on this air intake button will come on to show when it is operating. RECIRCULATE is helpful when you are trying to cool the air quickly or trying to limit odors and dust from entering the vehicle.
Page 158: Outside Air Temperature Sensor
Outside Air Temperature Sensor This sensor is located in the air intake under the front bumper of the vehicle. Information from this sensor is used for the outside air temperature readings shown on the digital display for the automatic climate control system. If the outside temperature goes up, the displayed temperature will not change until: The vehicle’s speed is above 20 mph (32...
Page 159 Heating The heater works best if you keep your windows closed. Maximum heating will occur when airflow direction is in the lower mode and the temperature control knob (on a manual climate control system) is all the way in the red area. These settings will be selected by the Automatic Electronic Dual Climate Control System if operating in AUTO when maximum heating is required.
Page 160: Ventilation System
Ventilation System 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 fan is running. Ventilation Tips Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction (such as leaves).
Page 161: Am-Fm Stereo With Cassette Tape Player And Automatic Tone Control
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control Included with the AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control, are six amplified speakers. See your dealer for details. Playing the Radio PWR-VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off.
Page 162 SCAN: Press and hold one of the SEEK arrows for two seconds until SCAN appears on the display. SCAN allows you to listen to each station for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station.
Page 163 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 164 PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK left arrow to search for 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 165: Am-Fm Stereo With Compact Disc Player And Automatic Tone Control (Option)
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 166 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 167 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 168 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 169: Trunk Mounted Cd Changer (Option)
AM-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 170 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 171 changer except the EJECT button for ejecting the CD magazine. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK left arrow to go to the previous track 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 172 the current selection. If you hold or press this button more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc. The sound will mute while seeking. RDM (2): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. RANDOM will appear on the display.
Page 173: Theft-Deterrent Feature
The CD changer door is open. Completely close the changer door to restore normal operation. An empty magazine is inserted in the CD changer. Try the magazine again with a disc loaded on one of the trays. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error cannot be corrected, please contact your dealer.
Page 174 5. Press MN and 000 will appear on the display. 6. Press MN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. 7. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code. 8. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down.
Page 175: Understanding Radio Reception
Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or ON. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until SEC shows on the display.
Page 176: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player
To help avoid hearing loss or damage: Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably and clearly. NOTICE: Before you add any sound equipment to your vehicle like a tape player, CB radio, mobile telephone or two-way radio be sure you can add what you want.
Page 177: Care Of Your Compact Discs
Cleaning may be done with a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. It is normal for the cassette to eject while cleaning. Insert the cassette at least three times to ensure thorough cleaning.
Page 178 NOTES 3-31...
Page 179 NOTES $&) 3-32...
Page 180: Section 4 Your Driving And The Road
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 4-1 1 Steering...
Page 181: 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 Corvette: 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 182 Police records show, that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. In recent years, some 17,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured.
Page 183 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 184 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? person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.
Page 185: Control Of A Vehicle
Control of 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 186: Anti-Lock Brakes (Abs)
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 187 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 the rear wheels.
Page 188: Traction Control System (Tcs)
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 front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
Page 189 The SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM message and the TCS warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem with your TCS system. See “SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM Message” in the Index. TCS Light When this light and the SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM message are on, the system will not limit wheel spin.
Page 190: Braking In Emergencies
Braking in Emergencies With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. 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.
Page 191: Steering In Emergencies
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway.
Page 192: Off-Road Recovery
Off-Road Recovery You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. OFF-ROAD RECOVERY 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 193 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 194: 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 195: 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 196: 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-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What you do in the daytime can also affect your night vision.
Page 197: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads 4-18 Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-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 198 Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them. CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work as well one side.
Page 199: 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 200: 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 201: 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. 4-22 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 202: 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 203: Highway Hypnosis
Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call 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 204 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 205: 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. 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 206: 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 207: If You're Caught In A Blizzard
If You’re Caught in a Blizzard 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 208 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 209: Loading Your Vehicle
Loading Your Vehicle TIRE-LOADING INFORMATION OCCUPANTS VEHICLE CAP. WT. CTR. FRT. TOTAL LBS. MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT TIRE SIZE SPEED FRT. SPA. IF TIRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PS1/28KPa OWNER’S MANUAL ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry.
Page 210: Towing A Trailer
CA"T1ON: 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, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.
Page 211 NOTES 4-32...
Page 212: Section 5 Problems On The Road
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 Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle 5-13 Engine Overheating 5- 16 Cooling System 5-22 If a Tire Goes Flat 5-22 If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow...
Page 213: Warning Flashers
Hazard Warning Flashers I ’ 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 this button to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.
Page 214: Jump Starting
Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Corvette. But please use the following steps to do it safely. NOTICE: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Page 215 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 Corvette, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.
Page 216 ’ Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the Delco Freedom’ battery installed in every new GM vehicle.
Page 217 6. Positive goes to positive goes to negative or a metal engine part. Connect the red positive cable to the positive of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive terminal if the vehicle has one. and negative terminal 7.
Page 218 9. The other end of the negative to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move.
Page 219: Towing Your Vehicle
Towing Vehicle Your T r y to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your vehicle. They can provide the right equipment and know how to tow your vehicle without damage. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct.
Page 220 ’ CAUTION: To help avoid 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. Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by the tow truck.
Page 221: Front Towing
Front Towing Tow Limits 35 mph (55 k d ) , 50 miles (80 km) NOTICE: Do not tow with sling type equipment or bumper, fog lamps and air dam damage will occur. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment.
Page 222: Rear Towing
Rear Towing NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipment or the rear bumper will be damaged. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps. Use the shipping slots for car-carrier securing. When using wheel-lift equipment, a towing dolly must be used under the front wheels.
Page 223 NOTICE: (Continued) Do not attach winch cables or J-hooks to suspension components when using carcarrier equipment. Always use R-hooks inserted into the shipping slots. Do not allow chains to contact springs as damage to springs could result. SHIPPING SLOT 5-12...
Page 224: Engine Overheating
Engine Overheating You will find an engine coolant temperature gage on the instrument cluster and a COOLANT OVER TEMP message on the Driver Information Center. Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode Should a low coolant condition exist and the messages COOLANT OVERTEMP and REDUCED ENGINE POWER are displayed, along with the CHECK ENGINE light, an overheat protection mode which alternates firing groups of four cylinders helps prevent...
Page 225: If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
If Steam Is Coming From Your ’ L ’ \ 5-14 Engine 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.
Page 226: If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving.
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 Fans B. Coolant Surge Tank CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you.
Page 228 The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark. 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. Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot.
Page 229: How To Add Coolant To The Coolant Surge Tank
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL@ coolant at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it.
Page 230 CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning.
Page 231 1. You can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly about one-quarter turn to the left and then stop. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.
Page 232 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fans. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower.
Page 233: If A Tire Goes Flat
If a Tire Goes Flat Your Corvette has neither a spare tire nor tire changing equipment, because it was built with Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT). See “Extended Mobility Tires” in the Index. ’ CAUTION: Because your vehicle has no spare tire, no tire changing equipment, and no provisions to store a tire in the vehicle, special tools and procedures are required if a tire needs to be serviced.
Page 234: Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transmission back and forth, you can destroy your transmission. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see “Tire Chains”...
Page 235 NOTES 5-24...
Page 236: Section 6 Service And Appearance Care
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your Corvette. 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 237: Doing Your Own Service Work
Service Your Chevrolet 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’ 1 1 get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people.
Page 238: Adding Equipment To The Outside Of Your Vehicle
Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the aifflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your Chevrolet dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Fuel Use premium unleaded gasoline rated at 91 octane or higher for best performance.
Page 239 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 240: Fuels In Foreign Countries
Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Page 241 The fuel fill door release is located at the right front corner of the center console storage compartment. If your fuel filler door release won’t operate, there is a manual release tab. The tab is located against the upper trim on the driver’s side in the rear compartment.
Page 242 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 243: Checking Things Under The Hood
Checking Things Under the Hood An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire.
Page 244 To open the hood, first pull the handle inside Then go to the side of the vehicle and pull up on the rear edge of the hood, near the windshield.
Page 245 You’ll see the following when you open the hood: A. Coolant Surge Tank and Pressure Cap B. Battery C. Engine Oil Dipstick 6-10 D. Engine Oil Fill Cap E, Air Cleaner F. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir G. Brake Fluid Reservoir H.
Page 246: Engine Oil
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then, just pull the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil If the LOW OIL LEVEL message on the Driver Information Center comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.
Page 247: Checking Engine Oil
Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or a cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down. 6-12 When to Add Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil.
Page 248: What Kind Of Oil To Use
The engine oil fill cap is on top of the right valve rocker arm cover. Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through. What Kind of Oil to Use Look for two things: GM4718M...
Page 249 RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. WEATHER SYMBOL COLD WEATHER DO NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best LOWEST...
Page 250: Engine Oil Additives
Substitute oil not meeting GM Standard GM4718M should not be used for an oil change. Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Chevrolet dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil Your Corvette has Engine Oil Life Monitor.
Page 251: What To Do With Used Oil
What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your slun and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner.
Page 252: Air Filter Replacement
‘ CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off.
Page 253: Automatic Transmission Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid How to Check Because this operation is difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Chevrolet dealer service department. It is not necessary to check the transmission fluid level. A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss.
Page 254: Manual Transmission Fluid
How to Check Because this operation can be difficult, you 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 255: How To Add Fluid
Then, follow these steps: Remove the filler plug. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the bottom of the filler plug hole. 3. If the fluid level is good, install the plug and be sure it is fully seated. If the fluid level is low, add more fluid described in the next steps.
Page 256: When To Check And What To Use
When to Check and What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often you should check the fluid level in your clutch master cylinder reservoir and for the proper fluid. See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”...
Page 257: Engine Coolant
Rear Axle When to Check Lubricant Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often to check the lubricant. See “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” 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 258 A 50/50 mixture of water and DEX-COOL@ coolant will: Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to 265 Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature, Let the warning lights and gages work as they should.
Page 259: Checking Coolant
NOTICE: If you use an improper coolant mix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.
Page 260 CAUTION: lbrning the surge tank 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 surge tank pressure cap little when the engine and radiator are hot. When your engine is cold,, the coolant level should be at the FULL COLD mark.
Page 261: Surge Tank Pressure Cap
Surge Tank Pressure Cap NOTICE: The surge tank pressure cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. When you replace the surge tank pressure cap, a GM cap is recommended.
Page 262: 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 263: Adding Washer Fluid
Adding Washer Fluid Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.
Page 264: Brake Fluid
Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here. It is filled with DOT-3 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 265 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 MIN mark on the reservoir. If it isn’t, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak.
Page 266: Brake Wear
Brake Wear Your Corvette has four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).
Page 267: Replacing Brake System Parts
Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts.
Page 268: Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. Halogen Bulbs Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package.
Page 269 Remove the screws on each side of the headlamp bezel. Open the hood. To remove the bezel, pull the sides slightly outward and tilt the bezel forward. Pull the clip centered above the lens outward. Be careful not to scratch the paint.
Page 270: Front Turn Signal Lamps
Front Turn Signal Lamps 1. Remove the front fascia close out panel attaching bolts. 2. Remove the front fascia close out panel. 3. Grasp the cooling duct and pull to release it from the front fascia, then reposition it. This will give you better access to the bulb.
Page 271 3. To remove the socket with the bulb, squeeze the tab 1. Remove the screws. while you turn the socket to the left. 2. Pull the taillamp housing assembly out.
Page 272: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
4. Remove the bulb from the socket. 5. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. Back-up Lamps YOU can access the back-up lamps through the inboard taillamp opening. See “Rear Turn Signal and Taillamps” in the Index. 1. Squeeze the tab on the socket while turning it to the left to remove it from the assembly.
Page 273 A. Blade Assembly B. Arm Assembly C. Locking Tab D. Blade Pivot E. Hook Slot E ArmHook Press down on the blade assembly pivot locking tab. Pull down on the blade assembly to release it from the wiper arm hook. Remove the insert from the blade assembly.
Page 274 To install the new wiper insert: 1. Slide the insert (D), notched end last, into the end with two blade claws (A). Slide the insert all the way through the blade claws at the opposite end (B). Plastic caps (C) will be forced off as the insert is fully installed.
Page 275 Tires Your new Corvette comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Corvette Warranty booklet for details. Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
Page 276: Extended Mobility Tires
Extended Mobility Tires Your Corvette, when new, had Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT). There’s no spare tire, no tire changing equipment and no place to store a tire in the vehicle. Extended Mobility Tires perform so well without any air that a Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) is used to alert you if a tire has lost pressure.
Page 277 To maintain your vehicle’s extended mobility feature, all replacement tires must be Extended Mobility Tires. As soon as possible, contact the nearest authorized Chevrolet or Goodyear EMT servicing facility for inspection and repair or replacement. Call Chevrolet at 1-800-CHEV-USA...
Page 278 Extended mobility tires are constructed differently than other tires and could explode during improper service. You or others could be injured or killed if you attempt to repair, replace, dismount, or mount an extended mobility tire. Let only an authorized Goodyear EMT Service Center repair, replace, dismount and mount extended mobility tires.
Page 279: Tire Rotation
NOTICE: Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tires don’t have enough air (underinflation), you can get the following: Too much flexing Too much heat Tire overloading Bad wear Bad handling Bad fuel economy.
Page 280: 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 281: Uniform Tire Quality Grading
If you ever replace your tires with those not having a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating and construction type (bias, bias-belted or radial) as your original tires. CAJTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving.
Page 282 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 283: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance
(except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your Chevrolet dealer if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need. Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces.
Page 284 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. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle.
Page 285 Used Replacement Wheels 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. Using the Wheel Lock Key The wheel lock key sits in a small depression in the trunk rail directly under the left-hand rear...
Page 286: Tire Chains
Tire Chains NOTICE: Don’t use tire chains. They can damage your vehicle because there’s not enough clearance. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions.
Page 287: Cleaning Vinyl
Use a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinyl or leather with a clean, damp cloth. Your Chevrolet dealer has two cleaners, a solvent-type spot lifter and a foam-type powdered cleaner. They will clean normal spots and stains very well. Do not use them on vinyl or leather.
Page 288: Cleaning Coated Moldings
Cleaning Coated Moldings These moldings are around the hatch opening in your Corvette’s rear area. When lightly soiled, wipe with a sponge or soft lint-free cloth dampened with water. When heavily soiled, use warm soapy water. You can remove scratches from a coated molding by wiping briskly with the solvent-type cleaner described earlier.
Page 289: Care Of Safety Belts
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, 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 290: 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 291: Finish Care
High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle. NOTICE: Conveyor systems on some automatic car washes may damage a Corvette. They may not have enough clearance for the undercarriage or for the wide rear tires. Check with the manager before using a car wash. Cleaning Exterior LampsLenses Use lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a liquid hand, dish or car washing (mild detergent) soap to clean...
Page 292: Cleaning Aluminum Wheels
Cleaning Aluminum Wheels Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then be applied. The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted surface of your vehicle.
Page 293: Fiberglass Springs
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...
Page 294: Appearance Care Materials Chart
Appearance Care Materials Chart 1052918** 8 oz. (0.237 L) 1052925 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1052929 16 oz. (0.473 L) 8 oz. (0.237 L) 1052930 12345002** 16 oz. (0.473 L) 12345725 oz. (0.354 L) 12377964 oz. (0.473 L) 12377966 oz. (0.473 L) See your General Motors Parts Department for these products.
Page 295: Vehicle Identification Number (Vin)
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) This is the legal identifier for your Corvette. 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 296: Electrical System
Electrical System Add-on Electrical Equipment NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your Corvette 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 297: Power Windows And Other Power Options
NOTICE: When using the accessory plug: DO NOT splice wires directly into the vehicle electrical wire harness. If done incorrectly, splicing may cause damage to your electrical system and would not be covered by the vehicle’s warranty. The maximum load of any electrical equipment should not exceed 15 amps.
Page 298: Fuses And Circuit Breakers
Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of maxi-fuses, mini-fuses and circuit breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse.
Page 299 p4mrnm SPAREFUSES UNDER HOOD Fuse Usage Console Cigarette Lighter Monitored (Inadvertent) Load Control Lumbar Seat Driver Seat Control Module Radio 6-64 Fuse Usage Parking Lamps, Taillamps Cigar Lighter Stop Hazard Flashers Body Control Module Windshield Wipermasher Accessory Power Blank Body Control Module Crank Hazard/Turn Signal Air Bag...
Page 300 Fuse Usage Body Control Module - Ignition 3 Body Control Module Radio Antenna Body Control Module - Ignition I, Instrument Panel Control Hatch/Trunk Release HVAC Controls Bose Speakers Diagnostic Right Door Control Module Power Feed Door Right Fuel Tank Door Door Control Module Left Power Feed Door Left Driver Power Seat (Circuit Breaker)
Page 301: Engine Compartment Fuse Block
Engine Compartment Fuse Block There is one fuse block in the engine compartment located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle in front of the battery. ‘ 6-66 Fuse Usage Rear Fog Lamp Approach Right Headlamp Motor Left Headlamp Motor Anti-Lock Brakes Fog Lamp EATT...
Page 302 Fuse Usage Selective Real Time Damping Headlamp Low Beam Right Headlamp High Beam Right Headlamp Low Beam Left Horn Headlamp High Beam Left Fuel Pump Cooling Fan Ignition 3 Oxygen Sensor Powertrain Control Module Throttle Control Injector 2 Engine Ignition Blank Fuse Usage...
Page 303 Usage Fuse Micro Relay Fuel Pump Micro Relay - Horn Micro Relay Rear Fog Lamp Micro Relay Back-up Lamps Micro Relay - Fog Lamp Micro Relay - AIR Solenoid Micro Relay Selective Real Time Damping Mini Relay - Ignition Mini Relay Cooling Fan 2 Mini Relay - Cooling Fan 3 Fuse...
Page 304: Replacement Bulbs
Replacement Bulbs Automatic Transmission Indicator ....Console Compartment Flood Glove Box Lamp Mirror Reading Lamps Visor Vanity Mirror ......Underhood IP Courtesy Lamps .
Page 305: Replacement Parts
Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Filter Battery ....Coolant Surge Tank Cap Engine Oil Filter PCV Valve Serpentine Belt ..AC Compressor GM Part No.
Page 306: Vehicle Dimensions
Accessory Belt Routing 86.9 cm) 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 Chevrolet dealer. 6-71...
Page 307 NOTES 6-72...
Page 308: Section 7 Maintenance Schedule
Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your Corvette. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment How this Section is Organized Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services 7- 13 Part Owner Checks and Services...
Page 309: Your Vehicle And The Environment
IMPORTANT: KEEP ENGINE OIL AT THE PROPER LEVEL AND CHANGE AS RECOMMENDED Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet, Corvette dealer details. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment.
Page 310: How This Section Is Organized
“Part C Periodic Maintenance Inspections” explains important inspections that your Chevrolet dealer’s service department or another qualified service center should perform. “Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” lists some products GM recommends to help keep your vehicle properly maintained.
Page 311: Using Your Maintenance Schedule
If you have any questions on how to keep your vehicle in good condition, see your Chevrolet dealer. This part tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when you should schedule them. If you go to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll know...
Page 312 Maintenance Schedule The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (160 000 should be performed after 100,000 miles (160 000 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). See “Owner Checks and Services”...
Page 313 Maintenance Schedule 10,000 Miles (1 6 000 km) Check the Engine Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset the Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. (See footnote An Emission Control Service. Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions.
Page 314 Maintenance Schedule 30,000 Miles (48 000 km) Check the Engine Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset the Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. (See footnote An Emission Control Service. Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
Page 315 Maintenance Schedule 50,000 Miles (80 000 km) Check the Engine Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset the Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. (See footnote An Emission Control Service. Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions.
Page 316 Maintenance Schedule 60,000 Miles (96 000 km) Check the Engine Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset the Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. (See footnote An Emission Control Service. Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
Page 317 Maintenance Schedule 70,000 Miles (112 000 km) Check the Engine Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset the Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions.
Page 318 Maintenance Schedule 90,000 Miles (144 000 km) Check the Engine Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset the Engine Oil Life Monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. (See footnote An Emission Control Service. Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
Page 319 Maintenance Schedule 100,000 Miles (160 000 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°F (32°C) or higher. In hilly or mountainous terrain.
Page 320: At Each Fuel Fill
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed below 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 lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown...
Page 321: At Least Once A Year
A transmission fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. Check for leaks. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to your Chevrolet dealership Service Department and have it repaired as soon as possible. At Least Once a Year...
Page 322 Starter Switch Check 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 323 Ignition Automatic Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to OFF in each shift lever position. The key should turn to OFF only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). On all vehicles, the key should come out only in OFF.
Page 324 Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your GM dealer’s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs.
Page 325 Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your GM dealer. USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT The engine requires a special oil Engine Oil meeting GM Standard GM47 18M. Oils meeting this Standard may be identified as synthetic, and should also be identified with the...
Page 326 USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT Key Lock Multi-Pur ose lubricant, Cylinders Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241 or equivalent). Rear Axle Axle Lubricant (GM Part (Limited-Slip No. 12345977) and 4 ounces Differential) (1 18 ml) of Limited-Slip Differential Lubricant Additive (GM Part No. 1052358 or equivalent) where required.
Page 327 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 Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages.
Page 328 Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE MAINTENANCE PERFORMED SERVICED READING...
Page 329 Maintenance Record ODOMETER SERVICED READING DATE MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-22...
Page 330: Section 8 Customer Assistance Information
&& 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 331 Chevrolet dealers have the facilities, trained technicians and up-to-date information to promptly address any concerns you may have. However, if been resolved to your complete satisfaction, take the following steps: STEP ONE Discuss your concern with a member of dealership management. Normally, concerns can be quickly resolved at that level.
Page 332 If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, contact the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center by calling 1-800-222- 1020. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre in Oshawa by calling 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
Page 333: Customer Assistance For Text Telephone (Tty) Users
To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs), Chevrolet has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with Chevrolet by dialing: 1-800-833-CHEV. (TTY users in...
Page 334: Chevroletigeo Roadside Assistance Program
ChevroletIGeo Roadside Assistance Program To enhance Chevrolet’s strong commitment to customer satisfaction, Chevrolet is excited to announce the establishment of the Chevrolet/Geo Roadside Assistance Center. As the owner of a 1997 ChevroletlGeo, membership in Roadside Assistance is free. Roadside Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by calling 1-800-CHEV-USA (1 -800-243-8872).
Page 335 Bumper to Bumper New Vehicle Limited Warranty to eligible purchasers of 1997 Chevrolet/Geo passenger car and light duty trucks. (Please see your selling dealer for details.) Note: Courtesy Care is available to Retail and Retail Lease...
Page 336: Canadian Roadside Assistance
For complete program details, see your Chevrolet/Geo dealer to obtain a Roadside Assistance Center brochure. The Roadside Assistance Center uses companies that will provide you with quality and priority service. When roadside services are required, our advisors will explain any payment obligations that may be incurred for utilizing outside services.
Page 337: Courtesy Transportation
Chevrolet/Geo dealer. Some state insurance regulations make it impractical to rent vehicles to people under 21 years of age. If you are under 21 and have difficulty renting a vehicle, Chevrolet will reimburse up to $30/day for documented transportation you receive.
Page 338: Gm Participation In An Alternative Dispute Resolution Program
Plan (CAMVAP). General Motors reserves the right to change eligibility limitations and/or to discontinue its participation in this program. Both Chevrolet and your Chevrolet dealer are committed to making sure you are completely satisfied with your new vehicle. Our experience has shown that, if a situation...
Page 339: Warranty Information
Some state laws may require you to use this program before filing a claim with a state-run arbitration program or in the courts. For further information, contact the BBB at 1-800-955-5100 or the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-1020. Warranty Information Your vehicle comes with a separate warranty booklet that contains detailed warranty information.
Page 340: Reporting Safety Defects To The Canadian Government
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-222-1020 or write: Chevrolet Motor Division Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 7047 Troy, Michigan 48007-7047 In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
Page 341 1997 CHEVROLET/GEO SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATI The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by f the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.)
Page 342 ORDER TOLL FREE Only) (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders 1-800-782-4356 (Mondav-Fridav 8:OO AM 6:OO PM EST) NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent. Mail completed order form to: HELM, INCORPORATED P.O.
Page 343 NOTES 8-14...
Page 344 Section 9 Index ......Accessory Outlet ......Accessory Power Plug Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle .
Page 345 Brake Adjustment Fluid Master Cylinder ........Parking PedalTravel Replacing System Parts...
Page 346 ....... . Comfort Controls Automatic Electronic Dual ........Manual Compact Disc .
Page 347 Driver Information Center (DIC) Messages (Continued) Service Column Lock Service Ride Control Service Tire Monitor (MON) System (SYS) Service Traction System Shocks Inoperative ....Traction System (SYS) Active DriverPosition Driving...
Page 348 ......Fiberglass Springs ....Fifth Gear.
Page 349 Inspections ....... . Brakesystem Exhaust System Radiator and Heater Hose Steering .
Page 350 Manual ......Comfort Control System ........Frontseat .
Page 351 ....Publications. Service and Owner ........InCanada R a c i n g or Other Competitive Driving .
Page 352 ......Safety Defects. Reporting ........InCanada .
Page 353 ........Tachometer ....... TapePlayerCare Temperature Control .
Page 354 ....... w a r n i n g Devices Warning Lights. Gages and Messages Warranty Information Washer Fluid.
Page 355 Service Station Checkpoints ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK BATTERY p6-11 TIRES COOLANT SURGE TANK P6-40 AND PRESSURE CAP FUEL DOOR FUEL RELEASE RELEASE TAB P6-5 WINDSHIELD P6-6 p6-9 REMOTE FUEL WASHER FLUID DOOR TANK RELEASE P6-27 P6-6 For detailed information, refer to the page number listed, or see the Index in the back of the owner’s manual. 9-12...

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