traction control CADILLAC XLR V 2006 1.G User Guide

TOP INOP (Inoperative) – VALET ON:This message
will display when the retractable hardtop button is
pressed and the valet switch is on. Turn off the valet
switch before using the retractable hardtop.
TOP INOP (Inoperative) OUT OF PARK:This
message will display if the retractable hardtop button is
pressed while the vehicle is not in PARK (P).
TOP MOTOR OVER TEMP (Temperature):This
message will display when the retractable hardtop button
is pressed and the hardtop pump motor temperature
is over 221°F (105°C). Wait for the hardtop pump motor
to cool down before using the retractable hardtop.
TOP NOT SECURE:This message will display when
the retractable hardtop button is released before the top
open or close operation is complete. Press and hold the
retractable hardtop button to fully open or close the top.
TRAC (Traction) SYSTEM ACTIVE:When your
traction control system is limiting wheel spin, the
TRACTION SYSTEM ACTIVE message will be
displayed. Slippery road conditions may exist if this
message is displayed, so adjust your driving accordingly.
This message will stay on for a few seconds after the
traction control system stops limited wheel spin.TRAC (Traction)/STABILITRAK OFF:This message
indicates that both the Traction Control System
(TCS) and StabiliTrak
®are off. The message will remain
until the systems are turned on again.
TRAC (Traction)/STABILITRAK ON:This message
indicates that both the Traction Control System
(TCS) and the StabiliTrak
®are on.
TRACTION SYSTEM OFF:This message indicates
that the Traction Control System (TCS) is off but
StabiliTrak
®remains on.
TRACTION SYSTEM ON:This message indicates that
the Traction Control System (TCS) is on.
TRUNK AJAR:This message indicates that the trunk is
open while the vehicle is running and not in PARK (P).
WAIT FOR STABILITRAK:This message will be
displayed after driving 19 mph (30 km/h) for 10 seconds
if the steering is not centered. StabiliTrak
®is not
available until the steering centers itself and the
STABILITRAK READY message is displayed in the DIC.
3-76

Trip Computer
Oil Life Indicator
This feature lets you know when to change the engine
oil. It is based on the engine oil temperatures and
your driving patterns.
To see the display, press the information button
several times until OIL LIFE appears. If you see 99%
OIL LIFE, 99 percent of your current oil life remains.
The DIC may display a CHANGE OIL NOW message.
If you see CHANGE OIL NOW, it means the oil life
is gone. For more information, seeScheduled
Maintenance on page 7-4andEngine Oil on page 6-15.
When the oil is changed, you will need to reset the
system. SeeEngine Oil Life System on page 6-18.
Always keep a written record of the mileage and date
when you changed your oil.
Audio System(s)
Determine which radio your vehicle has and then read the
pages following to familiarize yourself with its features.
Driving without distraction is a necessity for a safer
driving experience. SeeDefensive Driving on page 5-2.
By taking a few moments to read this manual and get
familiar with your vehicle’s audio system, you can use it
with less effort, as well as take advantage of its features.
While your vehicle is parked, set up your audio system by
presetting your favorite radio stations, setting the tone
and adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving
conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite stations
using the presets and steering wheel controls if the
vehicle has them.
{CAUTION:
This system provides you with a far greater
access to audio stations and song listings.
Giving extended attention to entertainment
tasks while driving can cause a crash and you
or others can be injured or killed. Always keep
your eyes on the road and your mind on the
drive — avoid engaging in extended searching
while driving.
3-82

Keeping your mind on the drive is important for safe
driving. For more information, seeDefensive Driving
on page 5-2.
Here are some ways in which you can help avoid
distraction while driving.
While your vehicle is parked:
Familiarize yourself with all of its controls.
Familiarize yourself with its operation.
Set up your audio system by presetting your
favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and
adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving
conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite
radio stations using the presets and steering
wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
Notice:Before adding any sound equipment to your
vehicle, such as an audio system, CD player, CB
radio, mobile telephone, or two-way radio, make sure
that it can be added by checking with your dealer.
Also, check federal rules covering mobile radio and
telephone units. If sound equipment can be added,
it is very important to do it properly. Added sound
equipment may interfere with the operation of your
vehicle’s engine, radio, or other systems, and even
damage them. Your vehicle’s systems may interfere
with the operation of sound equipment that has
been added.Your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory
Power (RAP). With RAP, the audio system can be
played even after the ignition is turned off. SeeRetained
Accessory Power (RAP) on page 2-22for more
information.
Theft-Deterrent Feature
THEFTLOCK®is designed to discourage theft of
your vehicle’s radio. The feature works automatically
by learning a portion of the Vehicle Identication
Number (VIN). If the radio is moved to a different
vehicle, it will not operate. If the radio is removed
from your vehicle, the original VIN in the radio can
be used to trace the radio back to your vehicle.
With THEFTLOCK
®activated, the radio will not
operate if stolen.
3-83

Canceling Your Current Route
Guidance will be canceled once you arrive at your nal
destination. To cancel the current route prior to
arrival at the nal destination, do the following:
1. Press the ROUTE hard key.
2. Press the Route Preference screen button.
3. Press the Cancel Route screen button.
4. Press the Yes screen button to conrm cancellation.
Guidance Volume
To adjust the volume of voice guidance prompts, do the
following:
1. Press the MENU hard key.
2. Press the ON screen button to turn voice volume on.
3. Select the desired volume or select the OFF screen
button. The system will play back the new volume
level.
See “Voice Guidance Volume Settings” underSetup
Menu on page 4-13for more information.
Features and Controls
Using the Navigation System
This section presents basic information you will need to
know to operate the navigation system.
Use the keys located on each side of the navigation
screen, as well as the available touch-sensitive screen
buttons, to operate the system. SeeNavigation System
Overview on page 4-2for more information on location.
Once the vehicle is moving, various functions will be
disabled to reduce driver distraction.
Hard Keys
The following hard keys are located to the left of the
navigation screen:
BAND:Press the BAND key to access the band screen
and switch between AM, FM1, FM2, XM1, XM2, and
WX, if equipped. See “Finding a Station” under
Navigation Audio System on page 4-51.
CD:Press the CD key to play a CD. The CD screen
will be displayed. SeeSix-Disc CD Changer on
page 4-66orCD/DVD Player on page 4-69.
4-10

Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle..........5-2
Defensive Driving...........................................5-2
Drunken Driving.............................................5-3
Control of a Vehicle........................................5-6
Braking.........................................................5-6
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).........................5-7
Braking in Emergencies...................................5-9
Traction Control System (TCS).........................5-9
Magnetic Ride Control...................................5-11
Limited-Slip Rear Axle...................................5-11
StabiliTrak
®System......................................5-11
Steering......................................................5-13
Off-Road Recovery.......................................5-15
Passing.......................................................5-16
Loss of Control.............................................5-17
Racing or Other Competitive Driving (XLR-V). . . .5-18
Driving at Night............................................5-19Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads..................5-20
City Driving..................................................5-22
Freeway Driving...........................................5-23
Before Leaving on a Long Trip.......................5-24
Highway Hypnosis........................................5-25
Hill and Mountain Roads................................5-26
Winter Driving..............................................5-27
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud,
Ice, or Snow.............................................5-32
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out.................5-32
Loading Your Vehicle....................................5-33
Towing..........................................................5-37
Towing Your Vehicle.....................................5-37
Recreational Vehicle Towing...........................5-37
Towing a Trailer...........................................5-37
Section 5 Driving Your Vehicle
5-1

Control of a Vehicle
You have three systems that make your vehicle go where
you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering, and
the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work
at the places where the tires meet the road.
Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or ice,
it is easy to ask more of those control systems than the
tires and road can provide. That means you can lose
control of your vehicle. SeeTraction Control System
(TCS) on page 5-9andStabiliTrak
®System on
page 5-11.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s
performance. SeeAccessories and Modications
on page 6-3.
Braking
SeeBrake System Warning Light on page 3-54.
Braking action involves perception time and
reaction time.
First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.
That is perception time. Then you have to bring up your
foot and do it. That is reaction time.
Average reaction time is about three-fourths of a
second. But that is only an average. It might be less
with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or
more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness,
coordination, and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol,
drugs, and frustration. But even in three-fourths of a
second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels
66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an
emergency, so keeping enough space between
your vehicle and others is important.
And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly
with the surface of the road, whether it is pavement
or gravel; the condition of the road, whether it is
wet, dry, or icy; tire tread; the condition of your brakes;
the weight of the vehicle; and the amount of brake
force applied.
5-6

Remember: ABS does not change the time you need to
get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease
stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle
in front of you, you will not have time to apply your
brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always
leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though
you have ABS.
Using ABS
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal
down rmly and let anti-lock work for you. You may
hear a motor or clicking noise and feel the brake pedal
move a little during a stop, but this is normal.
Braking in Emergencies
With ABS, you can steer and brake at the same time.
In many emergencies, steering can help you more
than even the very best braking.
Traction Control System (TCS)
Your vehicle has a traction control system that limits
wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery
road conditions. The system operates only if it senses
that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning or
beginning to lose traction. When this happens,
the system works the rear brakes and reduces engine
power to limit wheel spin.
The TRAC SYSTEM ACTIVE message will display on
the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the traction
control system is limiting wheel spin. SeeDIC Warnings
and Messages on page 3-67. You may feel or hear
the system working, but this is normal.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction
control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise
control will automatically disengage. When road
conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may
reengage the cruise control. SeeAdaptive Cruise
Control on page 3-15orCruise Control on page 3-12
for more information.
5-9

This warning light will
come on to let you know
if there is a problem
with your traction
control system.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) Warning Light on
page 3-56. When this warning light is on, the system will
not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.
The traction control system automatically comes on
whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin,
especially in slippery road conditions, you should always
leave the system on. But you can turn the traction control
system off if you ever need to. You should turn the
system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck in sand, mud
or snow and rocking the vehicle is required. SeeRocking
Your Vehicle to Get It Out on page 5-32andIf Your
Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 5-32
for more information.To turn the system off,
press the front part of
the traction control button
located on the center
console.
The TRACTION SYSTEM-OFF message will display on
the DIC and the traction control system warning light
will come on. If the system is limiting wheel spin when
you press the button, the TRACTION SYSTEM-OFF
message will display — but the system will not turn off
right away. It will wait until there is no longer a
current need to limit wheel spin.
You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing
the button again. The TRACTION SYSTEM-ON message
should display briey on the Driver Information Center.
Adding non-GM accessories can affect your vehicle’s
performance. SeeAccessories and Modications
on page 6-3for more information.
5-10

Magnetic Ride Control
Magnetic Ride Control automatically adjusts the ride
of your vehicle. Automatic ride control is achieved
through a computer used to control and monitor the
suspension system. The controller receives input
from various sensors to determine the proper system
response. If the controller detects a problem within
the system, the DIC will display a SERVICE RIDE
CONTROL message. SeeDIC Warnings and Messages
on page 3-67for more information. See your dealer
for service.
Limited-Slip Rear Axle
Your limited-slip rear axle can give you additional
traction on snow, mud, ice, sand or gravel. It works
like a standard axle most of the time, but when one
of the rear wheels has no traction and the other
does, this feature will allow the wheel with traction
to move the vehicle.
StabiliTrak®System
The StabiliTrak®System is a computer controlled
system that helps the driver maintain directional control
of the vehicle in difficult driving conditions. This is
accomplished by selectively applying any one of the
vehicle’s brakes.
When you rst start your vehicle and begin to drive
away (6 mph (10 km/h)), especially during cold weather,
the message STABILITRAK WARMING may be
displayed in the Driver Information Center (DIC), the
instrument cluster light will be on, and a chime will
sound. This is normal. You can acknowledge this
message by pressing the RESET button. The
StabiliTrak
®System performance is affected until the
message, STABILITRAK READY, is displayed in
the DIC. This can take up to 15 minutes.
The WAIT FOR STABILITRAK message may be
displayed in the DIC after exceeding 19 mph (30 km/h)
for 10 seconds if the steering is not centered.
The system is off until the STABILITRAK ACTIVE
message is displayed.
5-11

The STABILITRAK ACTIVE message will come on
when the system is operating. SeeDIC Warnings
and Messages on page 3-67for more information.
You may also feel or hear the system working.
This is normal.
The instrument cluster
light will come on and a
chime will sound to let
you know if there is
a problem with the system.
The SERVICE STABILITRAK message will also be
displayed. SeeDIC Warnings and Messages on
page 3-67for more information.
When this light and the SERVICE STABILITRAK
message are on, the system is not operational.
Adjust your driving accordingly.The system comes on automatically whenever you start
your vehicle. To help maintain directional control of
the vehicle, you should always leave the system on.
You can turn the system off if you ever need to. If you
turn the STABILITRAK
®System off, the Traction
Control System will also be turned off. Adjust your
driving accordingly.
To turn the system off,
press and hold the
front part of the traction
control button on the
console for ve seconds
with the vehicle stopped.
You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing
the button. The DIC will display the appropriate message
when you push the button, either TRAC/STABILITRAK
ON or TRAC/STABILITRAK OFF.
5-12