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The 1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass Owner’s Manual 1-1

Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains “SRS” the system.

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Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle.

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

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Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find helpfulinfomation and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

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

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

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

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Customer Assistance Information This section tellsyou how to contact Oldsmobilefor assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-8.

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Index Here’s an alphabetical listingof almost every subjectin this manual. You can useit to quickly find something you want to read.

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we suppxt voluntary technician certification. .

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, OLDSMOBILE, the OLDSMOBILE Rocket Emblem are registered trademarks and the name CUTLASS is a trademark of General Motors Corporation.

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WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH National Institute for

AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE EXCELLENCE

This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name For Canadian OwnersWho Prefer “General Motorsof Canada Limited”for Oldsmobile Division whenever it appears in this manual. French Language Manual: Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be If you there if you ever needit when you’re on the road. so the new sell the vehicle, please leave this manualit in owner can use it.

Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 22656197B First Edition ii

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Anx propribtaires canadiens:Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplairede ce guide en frangais chez votre concessionaireou au: DGN Marketing ServicesLtd. 1577 Meyerside Dr. Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1B9

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1997 All Rights Reserved

How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning If you to end when they first receive their new vehicle. do this,it will help you learn aboutthe features and controls for your vehicle.In this manual, you’llfiid to explain that pictures and words work together things quickly.

Index A good placeto look for what you needis the Index in back of the manual. It’s an alphabeticallist of what’s in the manual, andthe page number where you’ll find it.

Safety Warnings andSymbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you if you wereto ignore about things that could hurt you the warning.

These mean thereis something thatcould hurt you or other people. In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to doto help avoid or reduce the If you don’t, you or hazard. Please read these cautions. others could behurt. You will also find a circle with a slash throughit in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do this” or “Don’t let this happen.”

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Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols youmay find on your vehicle. For example, these symbols are used on an original battery: CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

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PROTECT EYESBY SHIELDING

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CAUSTIC BAllERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

UNLOCK

SEAT BELTS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAM€S SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BAllERY

These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

POWER WINDOW

,\I/, AIR BAG

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These symbols have to do with your lamps:

These symbols are on some of your controls: WINDSHIELD

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TURN SIGNALS

Q COOLANT TEMP

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BAlTERY CHARGING SYSTEM WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

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DAYTIME RUNNING * LAMPS . * *

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FOG LAMPS

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

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Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE

LIGHTER

(0)

HORN

BRAKE

SPEAKER

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VENTILATING FAN

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ENGINE OIL PRESSURE ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

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NOTES

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information aboutthe seats in your Oldsmobileand how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do withair bags and safety belts.

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Seats and Seat Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many PeopleAsk About Safety Belts-- and the Answem How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Driver Position Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Right Front Passenger Position Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Rear Seat Passengers

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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Center Passenger Position Children Child Restraints Larger Children Safety Belt Extender Checking Your Restraint Systems Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

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Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you aboutthe seats -- how to adjust them-- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints.

Manual Seats

You can lose controlof the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you Lift the lever under the front seat to unlockit. Slide the don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try the vehicleis not moving. to move the seat withyour body, to make sure the seatis locked into place.

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6-Way Power Seat (If Equipped)

Move the seat higher by lifting and holding the bottom of the button. Lower the seat by pushing and holding the top of the button. To move the seat forward, push the rear of the button forward. To move the seat backward, push the front of the button rearward. Raise the fiontof the seat by lifting and holding the bottom front end of the button. Lower the front of the seat by pushing and holding the top front end of the button. Raise the rear of the seat by lifting and holding the bottom rear of the button. Lower the rear of the seat by pushing and holding the top rear of the button.

The power seat button is located on the lower, left side of the driver's seat. This button allows you to move the It also moves the seat up, down, forward and backward. front of the seat up or down and the rear of the seat up or down.

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To adjust the seatback,lift the lever on the outer side of the seat and move the seatback to where you it.want Release the leverand ensure the handle returns to the original position and the seatback is securely locked. 1 1 1up on the lever and the seat will go to an upright position.

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But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or downso that the topof the .re&@$ is closwt to the top of your ears. This position ieducei the chanceof a neck injury in a crash.

Rear Seats Folding Rear Seat

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Safety Belts: They’refor Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tellsyou some things youshould not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), orair bag system.

To open the folding rear seat, open the trunk and pull of the one or bothof the tethers located on the left side trunk. The left-hand tether will open the larger of side the seatback. The right-handtether will open the smaller side of the seatback. Oncea tether is pulled, the seatback tru& or pulled open can be pushed open through the from inside the- vehicle. To close the split folding rear seat, push the seatback up until you hear a click. Then pull on the seatback to make sure it issecure.

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Don’t let anyoneride where heor she can’t wear a safety belt properly.If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse.You can hit things insidethe vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not beif you are buckled up. Alwaysfasten your safety belt,and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

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Your vehicle has alight that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light’’in the Index.)

In most stales.and Canadian provinces,the law saysto wear safety belts. Here’s why:They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash.Lf you do have a crash, you don’t know ifit will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious thateven buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckleup can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than30 years of safety beltsin vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.

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Get it up to speed. Thenstop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...

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or the instrument- panel ...

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or the safetybelts! With safety belts,you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more timeto stop. You stop over mare distmce, and your strongest bones takethe forces. That's~why safety belts make such good sense.

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If I’m agood driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts?

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You may be an excellent driver,but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault-- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect youfrom things beyond your control, suchas bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km)of home. Andthe greatest numberof serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than40 mph (65 km/h). Safety beltsare for everyone.

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only €or peopleof adult size. Be awarethat there are specialthings to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies.If a childwill be riding in your vehicle, see the partof this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the 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 wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) so you can sit up straight.

3. Pick up the latch plateand pull the belt across you. Don’t letit get twisted.

The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across go back you very quickly.If this happens, let the belt slightly to unlockit. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster tothe height thatis right for you.

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stopor crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly outof the retractor.

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Adjust the heightso that the shoulder portionof the beltis centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away fkom your face and neck, but not falling o€€your shoulder.

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What’s wrong with this?

if your shoulder beltis You can be seriously hurt too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, whichcould increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

The shoulder beltis too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.

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Q: Mat’s wrong with this? You can be seriouslyinjured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this.In a crash, the belt wouldgo up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your beltinto the buckle nearest you.

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The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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Q:

What's wrong with this? ~~

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You can be seriouslyinjured if you wear the shoulder beltunder your arm. In a crash, your body would movetoo far forward, which would increase the chance of head andneck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force tothe ribs, which aren't as strong as shoulder bomes. You could also severelyinjure internal organs like your liveror spleen.

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The shoulder beltis worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulderat all times.

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&.’ What’s wrong with this? You can be seriously injured bya twisted belt. In a crash,you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces.If a beltis twisted, make it straightso it can work properly, or ask your retailer tofix it.

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The belt is twisted across the body.

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts workfor everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, theyare more likely tobe seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. of the way. The belt should go back out

Before you closethe door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slamthe door on it, you can damageboth the belt and your vehicle. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the pregnancy. the rounding, throughout

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The best way to protect thefetus 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.

Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same . way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position” earlier in this section.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) ‘This part explainsthe Supplemental Restraint System 1 (SRS) or air bag system. Your vehicle has “Next Generation” reduced-force =frontalair bags -- one air bagfor the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. ~

‘Reduced-force frontalair bags are designed to help of an inflating reduce the riskof injury from the force air bag. But even these air bags must inflate very quickly if they are to do their job and comply with federal .regulations. . . . . -

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Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

You can be severelyinjured or killed in a crash if you aren’t wearing your safety belt even if you during a have air bags. Wearing your safety belt crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicleor being ejected from it. Air bags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. All air bags even reduced-forceair bags are designed to work with safety belts, but don’t replace them.Air bags are designed to work only inmoderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, sideor low-speed frontal crashes. And,for unrestrained occupants, CAUTION: (Continued)

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A CAUTION:

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Where are theair bags? The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

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When should an air bag inflate?

What makes an air bag inflate?

An air bag is designed to inflatein a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.”If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 14 mph (14 to 23 km/h). The threshold level so that can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed inflate to in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant.

In an impactof sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects thatthe vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all partof the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panelfront in of the right front passenger.

In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or near-frontal impacts.

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How does anair 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, air bags would stopping the occupant more gradually. But not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because air bags. Air an occupant’s motion is not toward those bags should never be regardedas anythng more than a in moderate to supplement to safety belts, and then only severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.

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In many crashes severe enough toinflate an air bag, windshields are brokenby vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. 0 Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, theair bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts.The service manualfor your vehicle coversthe need to replace other parts. 0 Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system.The module records information I about the readiness of the system, whenthe sensors safety belt usage at are activated and driver’s deployment. When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for 0 Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag people with a history of asthma or other system. Improper service can mean that your air m the breathing trouble.To avoid this, everyone bag system won’t work properly. See your retailer for service. vehicle should get out soon as as it is safe todo so. If you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.

What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates,so quickly that air bag inflated. some people may not even realize the Some components of theair bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver’sair bag, or the instrument panel -- will be hot for short a for the right front passenger’s bag time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be w m , but not too hot to touch. Therewill be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver kom it seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does stop peoplekom leaving the vehicle.

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NOTICE: If you damage the covering for the driver’sor the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module inthe steering wheel or both theair bag moduleand the instrument panelfor the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not openor break the air bag coverings. If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water -- such as -- or if water enters water up to the carpeting or higher your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then you start your vehicle, the damage could make air the bags inflate, evenif there’s no crash.You would have to replace theair bags as well as the sensors and related parts. If your vehicleis ever in a flood, or if it’s exposed to water that soaks the carpet, you can avoid needless repair costs by turning off the vehicle immediately. Don’t let anyone start the vehicle, even to tow it, unless the battery cables are first disconnected.

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Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle.You don’t want the system to inflate while someoneis working on your vehicle. Your retailer and the Cutlass Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and air thebag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.

For up to 10 minutes after the ignitionkey is turned off and the battery is disconnected,an air bag can still inflate during improper service.You can beinjured if you are close to an airbag when it inflates.Avoid yellow connectors. Theyare probably part of the air bag system. Besure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to doso. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the beltacross you. Don’t let it get twisted,. Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions nextto the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it.

3. To make the lap part tight, pull downon the buckle up on the shoulderpart. end of the belt as-you pull

Pull up on the latch plate to make sureit is secure. If the beltis not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the endof this section. Make sure the release buttonon the buckleis positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. ,

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to slide under the lap belt.If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulderand across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locksif there's a suddenstop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

You can be sermusly hurtif your shoulder beltis too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increaseinjury. The fit agamst your body. shoulder belt should The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on thighs. In a crash,this applies the hips, just touching the be less likely force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd

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There is one guidefor each outside passenger position in the rear seat.To provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts. Here’s how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:

To unlatch the belt,just push the button on the buckle.

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults 1. Pull the elastic cordout from between the edgeof the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storageclip.

2.

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To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the from belt edges togetherso that you can take them out the guides.Pull the guide upward to exposeits storage the clip. Rotate the clip, and then slide the guide onto guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and of elastic the interior body, leaving only the loop cord exposed.

Center Passenger Position

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Lap Belt

when you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no' retractor. To d e the belt longer, tiltthe latch plateand pull it alongthe belt.

Children who are up against, or very close to,an air bag whenit inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Thisis true even though your vehicle has reduced-force frontal air bags. Air bags plus lap-shoulder belts offer the best protectionfor adults and older children,but not for young children and infants. Neitherthe vehicle’s safety belt systemnor its air bag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. Alwayssecure children properly in your vehicle.

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Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whetherit is the right type and size for your child.A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low onthe hips, asit should. Instead, the belt will likely be overthe child’s abdomen.In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause seriousor fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is alwaysproperly restrained in a child or infant restraint.

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Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehide. A baby doesn't weigh much until a so crash. During a crash a baby will become heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued)

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When choosing a child restraint, sure be 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 instructionson the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both.These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle,but the child also has to be secured within the restraint tohelp reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Both the owner’s manual and the child restraint instructions are important, so if either one of these is not available, obtain a replacement copyfrom the manufacturer.

Where toPut the Restraint Accident statistics show that cMdren are saferif they are restrainedin the rear rather thanthe front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your Wherever you installit, be sure to secure the child Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat. restraint properly. child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why: Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure peoplein the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle-- even when no childis in it.

If your child restraint has a top strap, your retailer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designedfor this vehicle. The retailer can then install the anchor for you. In Canada, this work will be donefor you free of charge. Or, you may install the anchor yourself using the instructions provided in the kit.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

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If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to havean anchor installed, you it in for you. If can ask your Oldsmobile retailer to put you want to installan anchor yourself, your retailer can tell you how to do it.

Canadian law requires that child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored.

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You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure with the child to follow the instructions that came restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint whenand as the instructions say. 1. Put the restraint on the seat.

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt ifneeded. 'If the shoulder beltgoes in frQnt of the child's face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safetybeltandlet it go backallthe way. Thesafetybelt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Securing a Child Restraintin the Center Rear Seat Position

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You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure 4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while the childin the child restraint when and as the If you’re using you push down on the child restraint. instructions say. a forward-facing child restraint, you may find it if the child helpful to use your knee to push down on the child See the earlier part about the top strap restraint has one. restraint as you tighten the belt.

5. Push and pull the child restraintin different directions to be sureit is secure.

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1. Make the belt as long as possibleby tilting the ltitch plate and pulling it dong the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat.

3. Run the vehicle's safety belt through or around the will-show restraint. The child restraint instructians you how.

A child ina rearfacing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflateseven though your vehicle has reduced-force frontal air bags. This is because the backof a rear-facing childrestraint would be air bag. Always secure very closeto the inflating a rearfacing child restraint in therear seat.

Tilt thelatch plate to adjust the beltif needed. If the shoulderbelt go'esin front of the child%face or neck, put it b e W the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you wouldbe able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your kneeto push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 6. 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. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Larger Children

a crash. 0

Children who aren’t buckledup can strike other people who are.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safetybelts.

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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 retailer will orderyou 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. The extender will bejust for you, andjust for the seatin your vehicle that you choose. Don’tlet someone else use it, and useit only for the seatit is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.

Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Lookfor any other If you see loose or damaged safety belt system parts. anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also lookfor any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)

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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. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the timeof the collision. If your seat adjuster won’t work after a crash, the special part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the adjuster may need to be replaced. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

Section 2 FeaturesandControls Here you can learn aboutthe many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel andthe warning systems that tell youif e v e w n g is working properly-- and what to do if you have a problem. 2-2 2-4 2-6 2- 10 2- 12 2- 13 2-13 2- 14 2- 15 2- 16 2-18 2-22 2-23 2-25 2-26

Keys Door Locks Remote Lock Control(If Equipped) TrWnk Theft Passlock' New Vehicle "Break-In" Ignition Positions Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater(If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) Shifting Outof PARK (P) Parking Over Things That Bum

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Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You're Parked Windows Horn Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifimction Lever Exterior Lamps Interior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Sunroof (If Equipped) Instrument Panel Instrument Panel Cluster Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

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One keyis used for the ignition, the doors and all other locks.

Each plug has a key code on it that tells your retailer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to haveone made easily using these plugs. If you need a new key, go to your retailerfor the correct key code.

NOTICE: When a new vehicleis delivered, the retailer removes the key plug fiom the key, and gives them tothe first owner.

Your vehicle has a number of new features that can help prevent theft, therefore you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. You may even have to So be sure you damage your vehicle to get in. have extra keys.

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Unlocked doors canbe dangerous. Passengers especially children can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the insidehandle won't open it. Outsiders caneasily enter through anunlocked door when you slow down or stop yourvehicle. This may notbe so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown outof the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren'tlocked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, andyou will be far better off whenever you drive yourvehicle.

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There are several waysto lock and unlock your vehicle. From the outside, use your key or the remote lock control transmitter,if your vehicle has this option.

From the inside, to lock the door, move the locking lever forward.

To unlock the door, move the locking lever rearward.

Rear Door Security Locks ~

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Door Ajar Reminder

Your vehicle is equipped

with rear door security prevent help b&s that passengers from opening -the rearhoors of your vehicle from the inside.

The switchis located on the insideof the rear door. To use one of these locks: I. Move the switch up.

2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thing on the other rear doar.

Remote Lock Control (If Equipped) If your vehicle hasthis option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock yourtrunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote lock control transmitter supplied with your vehicle. In addition, the system illuminates the interior lights for a set period of time. The remote lock control system consistsof a receiver, whichis located in the vehicle, andtwo hand-held transmitters.

Your remote lock control operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission(FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.

This device complies withPart 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept anyinterference received, includinginterference that may cause undesired operation.

This system hasa range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). At timesyoumay notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry you have system. If the transmitter does not workifor to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitterto work, try this:

This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry two Canada. Operationis subject to the following conditions: (1) this device may notcause interference, and (2) this device must acceptany interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operationof the device.

e Check to determineif battery replacement or

Changes or modifications to this systemby other thanan authorized servicefacility could void authorizationto use this equipment.

e Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be

synchronization is necessary. See the instructions that follow.

e Check the distance.You may be toofar from your vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. blocking the signal. Takea few steps tothe left or try again. right, hold the transmitter higher, and

e If you’re still having trouble, see your retailer or a qualified technicianfor service.

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Operation

Matching Transmitter(s)To Your Vehicle

The following functions are available with the remote lock control system:

Each remote lock control transmitter is coded to prevent from unlocking your vehicle.If a another transmitter transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your retailer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when youtogo your retailer. When the retailer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once your retailer has coded the new transmitter, thelost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehiclecan have onlyfour transmitters matched toit.

LOCK: All doors will automatically lock when the LOCK button on the transmitter is pressed. Press the button a second time and you will hear a “chirp” to indicate that the doors have been locked. UNLOCK: The driver’s door will unlock automatically is pressed. when the UNLOCK button on the transmitter If the UNLOCK buttonis pressed again withinfive seconds, all remaining doors will unlock.

Trunk Release: The trunk will unlock anytime the vehicle symbol onthe transmitter is pressed, the trunk lockout is not engaged and the gear selector is in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).

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1998 You can match your transmitter to as many General Motors vehicles as youown, as long as they have the same remote lock control system. Contact your retailer for assistance with this.

Battery Replacement Under normaluse, the battery in your remote lock control transmitter shouldlast about two years. You can tell the battery is weak ifthe transmitter won’t work atthe normal range in any location.If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.

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When replacing the battery, use care not to touch anyofthecircuitry.Staticfromyourbody transferredtothesesurfacesmaydamage To replacethebattery in theremotelockcontroltransmitter: the transmitter. or flathead screwdriverto separate 1. Use a small coin the bottomhalf from the top halfof the transmitter. 2. Remove the battery and replaceit with the new one. Make sure the positive (+) side of the battery faces down. Use one 3 volt, CR2032, or equivalent, type battery. sure the 3. h t the two halves back together. Make cover is on tight,so water won’t get in.

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4. Check the operationof the transmitter with your vehicle. If the transmitter does not work, try synchronizing the transmitter with the receiver. Synchronization

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Trunk To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the key and turn thetrunZC lock cylinder.

Your remote lock control system is equipped with a security system that prevents anyone from recording and playing back your signal. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will It can be dangerous to drive with trunk the lid not respondto a signal that has been sentit to more open because carbonmonoxide (CO) gas can than once. come into yourvehicle. You can’t see or smell To synchronize your transmitter and receiver, follow CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. these directions: If you must drivewith the trunklid open or if 1. Stand close to your vehicle. electrical wiring or othercable connections must pass through the sealbetween the body and the 2. Press and hold theLOCK and UNLOCK buttons on trunk lid: the transmitter at the same time. Make sure allwindows are shut. 3. Hold the buttons forfive seconds. In this time, the Thrn the fan on your heating or cooling doors should lock and unlock once. This confirms system to its highest speed with the setting on the resynchronization.If the doors do not lock and VENT. That will force outsideair into your unlock, see your retailer for service. vehicle. See “Comfort Controls’’ in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all way. the See “Engine Exhaust”in theIndex.

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Passlock@ Your vehicle is equipped with the passlock theft-deterrent system. Passlock is a~passivetheft-deterrent system.The system is armed oncethe key is removed from the ignition. Passlock enablesfuel if the ignitionlock cylinder is If a correct keyis not used,fuel turned with a valid key. is disabled. During normal operation, theTHEFT S Y S m light will go off after the engine is started. If the THEFT SYSTEM light flashes, wait untilthe light stops flashing before startingthe engine. If the THEFT SYSTEM light comes on while the engine is running, a problem has been detected and the system may need service.See your retailerfor service. In an emergency, cal1 the Oldsmobile Roadside Assistance Centerat 1-800-442-OLDS (6537).

New Vehicle “Break-In” NOTICE: Your vehicle doesn’t needan elaborate ‘70reak-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you followthese guidelines: Don’t drive at any one speed fast or slow for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t makefull-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops withnew linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. 0 Don’t tow a trailer during break-in. See “Towing a Trailer’’ in the Index for more information.

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ACC (Accessory) (B): This position unlocksthe transaxle. It also lets you use things like the radio and

Ignition Positions A h

B

windshield wipers whenthe engine is not running.To use ACC, push in the key and turnit to the right. Use this positionif your vehicle must be pushed or towed, but never try to push-start your vehicle.

ON (C): This position unlocks the ignition and transaxle. This positionis also where the key returns after youstart your engine and release the switch. The switch staysin ON when the engine is running. But even ON to when the engineis not running, you can use operate your electrical power accessories, and to display some instrument panel warning lights. START (D): This position startsthe engine. Whenthe engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to ON for normal driving. With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to four positions.

OFF (A): Before you putthe key into the ignition off. It is the only position from switch, the switch is which you can remove the key. This position locks your ignition and transaxle.A warning chime will soundif you openthe driver’s door whenthe ignition isoff and the key isin the ignition.

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2. If your engine won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline, Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holdingit there as you hold the key in START for up to 15 seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.

Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in yourvehicle. If you add electrical parts oraccessories, you could changethe way the engine operates.Before adding electrical equipment, check with your retailer. If you don’t, your engine might not performproperly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the partof this manual thattells how to doit without damaging yourvehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in theIndex.

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In very cold weather, 0°F (- 18 C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier startingand better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. O

To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrapthe electrical cord.

3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-voltAC outlet.

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CAUTION.

Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet codd cause an electrical shock Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriouslyinjured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, usea heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.

4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and storethe cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts.E you don’t, it could be damaged. How long should youkeep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer dependson the outside temperature,the of kind of oil you have,and some other things. Instead trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your retailerin the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The retailer can give you the best advicefor that particular area.

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Automatic ’hansaxle Operation

kTour automatic transaxle has ashift lever located on the console betweenthe seats. PARK (P): This locks yourfront wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.

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It is dangerous toget out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brakefirmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the e&&e is running unless you have to. If you have left the engine running, thevehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly level ground, always set your parking brake and move the shift lever PARK to (P). See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in theIndex. I€ you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) rangebefore starting the engine. Your Oldsmobile has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition keyis in the RUN position. If you cannot shiftout of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) -- as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Pressthe shift lever button before moving the shift lever.) See “Shifting Outof PARK (P)” later in this section.

REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R)while your vehicle is moving forward could damageyour transaxle. Shift toREVERSE (R)only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to getout of snow, see “If ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, You’re Stuck:In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow”in the Index.

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect withthe wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicleis being towed.

Shifting outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racings’ (running at high speed)is dangerous. Unlessyour foot is firmly on the brake pedal; your vehiclec d d move very rapidly. You could lose controland hit people or objects. Don’t shiftout of PARK (P)or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

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NOTICE: Do not shift outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing. Yourtransaxle can be damaged by doing this and will not be covered by your warranty. Shift yourtransaxle according to the instructions in this manual.

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AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D):This position is for normal driving.If you need more powerfor passing, and you’re: Going less than 35 mph (56 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all theway down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

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THIRD (3): This positionis also usedfor normal driving, however,it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE(D). Here (3) instead of are some times you might choose THIRD AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): When driving on hilly, winding roads. When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears. When going down a steep hill.

NOTICE: If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or if it seems not to shift gears you as go faster, something may be wrongwith a transaxle system sensor. If you drive veryfar that way, your vehicle can be damaged.So, if this happens, have your vehicle serviced rightaway. Until then, you can use SECOND (2) when you are drivingless than 35 mph (56 kmh) and AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) for higherspeeds.

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SECOND (2):This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND(2) on hills. go down steep It can help control your speed as you mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakesoff and on.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power

NOTICE: Don’t drive in SECOND(2) for m,orethan 25 miles (41 km), or at speeds over55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use AUTOMATICOVERDRIVE (D) ‘or THIRD (3) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless youare going slowerthan 65 mph (105 k m k ) or you can damage your engine. SECOND (2) will select either first or second gear depending on vehicle speed. If your vehicleis slowing, the transaxle will downshiftto first gear at 20 to 25 miles perhour (32 to 40 km/h) for engine braking. You may notice some variation in shift speed in SECOND (2) when acceleratingor braking.

(but lowerfuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steephills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector leveris put in FIRST (1)’ the transaxle won’t shift into first gear untilthe vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE: If’your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This mighthappen if you werestuck in very deepsand or mud or were up against a solid object. You can damage your transaxle. Also, if‘you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with onlythe accelerator pedal. This couldoverheat and damage the transaxle. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehiclein position ona hill.

Second-Gear Start Your vehicle is equipped with a second-gear start feature. Placethe shift leverin SECOND (2) gear to provide more traction when you are startingice onor other slippery surfaces.The transaxle will bein SECOND (2) gear when the vehicle begins to move. (2) gear, place the shift lever After starting in SECOND in THIRD (3) or DRIVE (a). This feature isfor improved traction only when the road surface is slippery and is not intended for continuous use or when the vehicleis stuck in sand, mud, ice, snow or gravel.

Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition ison, the brake system warning light will come on.

To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down on the If the parking parking brake pedal with your left foot. brake is not released when you begin to drive, a chime will sound warning you that the parking brake is still on.

NOTICE:

Shifting Into PARK (P)

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. If you are towinga trailer and are parking on a hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailerfkom moving.

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1. Hold the brake pedal down withyour right foot and set the parking brake.

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Leaving Your Vehicle With the .;EngineRunning

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