CHEVROLET COBALT 2006 1.G Owners Manual

Disarming the System
You can disarm the system by doing any one of the
following:
Press the remote keyless entry transmitter unlock
button.
Turn the ignition on.
If the system is armed and the trunk is opened using
the trunk release button on the transmitter, the system
will temporarily disarm itself and re-arm when the
trunk has been closed. This allows you to exit the
vehicle, lock the doors using the transmitter, and open
the trunk using the transmitter without having to
disarm and re-arm the system.
Once the system is disarmed, the security light will stop
ashing.
How the System Alarm is Activated
If the system is armed, it can be activated by either:
Opening the driver’s door or trunk. This will
cause a ten second pre-alarm chirp followed by a
thirty second full alarm of horn and lights.
Opening any other door. This will immediately
cause a full alarm of horn and lights for
thirty seconds.
When an alarm event has nished, the system will
re-arm itself automatically.
How to Turn Off the System Alarm
To turn off the system alarm, do one of the following:
Press the lock button on the remote keyless
entry transmitter. The system will then re-arm itself.
Press the unlock button on the remote keyless entry
transmitter. This will also disarm the system.
Insert the key in the ignition and turn it on. This will
also disarm the system.
How to Detect a Tamper Condition
If you hear three chirps when you press the unlock, lock,
or trunk release buttons on the remote keyless
transmitter, it means that the content theft security
system alarm was previously activated.
PASS-Key®III+
The PASS-Key®III+ system operates on a radio
frequency subject to Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada.
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
2-15

This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
1. This device may not cause interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Changes or modications to this system by other than
an authorized service facility could void authorization to
use this equipment.
PASS-Key
®III+ uses a radio frequency transponder in
the key that matches a decoder in your vehicle.
PASS-Key®III+ Operation
Your vehicle is equipped with PASS-Key®III+
(Personalized Automotive Security System)
theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key
®III+ is a passive
theft-deterrent system. This means you do not have to
do anything special to arm or disarm the system. It
works when you insert or remove the key from
the ignition.
When the PASS-Key
®III+ system senses that someone
is using the wrong key, it prevents the vehicle from
starting. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start
the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high
number of electrical key codes.When trying to start the vehicle if the engine does not
start and the security light on the instrument panel
cluster comes on, the key may have a damaged
transponder. Turn the ignition off and try again.
If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be
not damaged, try another ignition key. At this time, you
may also want to check the fuse, seeFuses and Circuit
Breakers on page 5-98. If the engine still does not start
with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your
vehicle does start, the rst key may be faulty. See your
dealer who can service the PASS-Key
®III+ to have a
new key made. In an emergency, contact Roadside
Assistance. SeeRoadside Assistance Program on
page 7-6.
It is possible for the PASS-Key
®III+ decoder to “learn”
the transponder value of a new or replacement key.
Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle. The
following procedure is for programming additional keys
only. If all the currently programmed keys are lost or do
not operate, you must see your dealer or a locksmith who
can service PASS-Key
®III+ to have keys made and
programmed to the system.
See your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to get a new key blank that is cut
exactly as the ignition key that operates the system.
2-16

To program the new key do the following:
1. Verify that the new key has a
1stamped on it.
2. Insert the already programmed key in the ignition
and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see
your dealer for service.
3. After the engine has started, turn the key to OFF,
and remove the key.
4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to the
RUN position within ve seconds of the original key
being turned to the OFF position.
5. The security light will turn off once the key has
been programmed.
6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 if additional keys are to
be programmed.
If you are ever driving and the security light comes on
and stays on, you may be able to restart your engine if
you turn it off. Your PASS-Key
®III+ system, however,
is not working properly and must be serviced by
your dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the
PASS-Key
®III+ system at this time.
If you lose or damage your PASS-Key
®III+ key, see
your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to have a new key made.
Starting and Operating
Your Vehicle
New Vehicle Break-In
Notice:Your vehicle does not need an elaborate
break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if
you follow these guidelines:
Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or
slow, for the rst 500 miles (805 km). Do not
make full-throttle starts. Do not exceed
5,000 engine rpm. Avoid downshifting to brake,
or slow, the vehicle.
Avoid making hard stops for the rst 200 miles
(322 km) or so. During this time your new
brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops
with new linings can mean premature wear
and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in
guideline every time you get new brake
linings.
Do not tow a trailer during break-in. SeeTowing
a Trailer (Automatic Transaxle) on page 4-39or
Towing a Trailer (Manual Transaxle) on
page 4-46for the trailer towing capabilities of
your vehicle and more information.
Following break-in, engine speed and load can be
gradually increased.
2-17

Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn it to
four different positions.
Notice:Using a tool to force the key from the
ignition switch could cause damage or break the
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with
your hand. Make sure the key is all the way in. If
it is, turn the steering wheel left and right while you
turn the key hard. If none of this works, then
your vehicle needs service.
9(LOCK):This position locks your steering column.
It is a theft-deterrent feature. You will only be able
to remove your key when the ignition is turned to LOCK.
If you have an automatic transaxle, the ignition switch
cannot be turned to LOCK unless the shift lever is
in PARK (P).
If you have a manual transaxle, the ignition switch can
be turned to LOCK in any shift lever position.
{CAUTION:
If you have a manual transaxle removing the key
from the ignition switch will lock the steering
column and result in a loss of ability to steer the
vehicle. This could cause a collision. If you need
to turn the engine off while the vehicle is
moving, turn the key to ACC.
ACC (ACCESSORY):This position operates some of
your electrical accessories. It unlocks the steering wheel
and ignition.
2-18

R(RUN):This is the position the switch returns to after
you start your engine and release the switch. The
switch stays in the RUN position when the engine is
running. But even when the ignition is not running, you
can use RUN to operate your electrical accessories
and to display some warning and indicator lights.
/(START):This position starts the engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch
will return to RUN for normal driving.
A warning tone will sound if you open the driver’s door
while in LOCK or ACC, when the key has not been
removed from the ignition.
Column Lock Release
The following procedure allows the ignition to be turned
to LOCK and for ignition key removal in case of a
dead battery or low voltage battery.
1. Make sure the shift lever is in PARK (P).
2. Using a tool, pry off the cover from the bottom of
the steering column.
2-19

3. Place your nger into the access hole and locate
the plunger.
4. Press and hold the plunger toward the driver’s
door while turning the ignition key to LOCK.
Remove the key.
Have your vehicle serviced at your GM dealer as soon
as possible.
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
Your vehicle has a Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
feature which allow’s the radio, power windows,
and sunroof to continue to work up to 10 minutes after
the ignition is turned off.
Your vehicle’s radio will work when the ignition key is in
RUN or ACC. Once the key is turned from RUN to
LOCK, the radio will continue to work for 10 minutes or
until the driver’s door is opened. Also, the power
windows and sunroof will continue to work for up to
10 minutes or until any door is opened.
Starting the Engine
Automatic Transaxle
Move the shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
The engine will not start in any other position — that is
a safety feature. To restart when you are already
moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice:Shifting into PARK (P) with the vehicle
moving could damage the transaxle. Shift into
PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.
2-20

Manual Transaxle
The shift lever should be in NEUTRAL and the parking
brake engaged. Hold the clutch pedal to the oor
and start the engine. Your vehicle will not start if the
clutch pedal is not all the way down — that is a safety
feature.
Starting Procedure
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn the
ignition to START. When the engine starts, let go
of the key. The idle speed will go down as your
engine gets warm.
Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking
System. This feature assists in starting the
engine and protects the electrical system. If the
ignition key is turned to the START position,
and then released when the engine begins cranking,
the engine will continue cranking until the vehicle
starts or until it exceeds the maximum cranking time
allowed, approximately 15 seconds to prevent
cranking motor damage. To prevent gear damage,
this system also prevents cranking if the engine
is already running. The engine cranking can
be stopped by turning the ignition switch to the
ACCESSORY or LOCK position.
Notice:Holding your key in START for longer
than 15 seconds at a time will cause your
battery to be drained much sooner.And the excessive heat can damage your starter
motor. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to
help avoid draining your battery or damaging
your starter.
2. If it does not start, wait about 15 seconds and try
again to start the engine by turning the ignition to
START. Wait about 15 seconds between each try.
When the engine has run about 10 seconds to
warm up, your vehicle is ready to be driven. Do not
run your engine at high speed when it is cold.
If the weather is below freezing (32°F or 0°C), let
the engine run for a few minutes to warm up.
3. If the engine still will not start, or starts but then
stops, it could be ooded with too much gasoline.
Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the
oor and holding it there as you hold the key in
START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts
briey but then stops again, do the same thing, but
this time keep the pedal down for ve or six seconds.
This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.
Notice:Your engine is designed to work with the
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
parts or accessories, you could change the way the
engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment,
check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine
might not perform properly. Any resulting damage
would not be covered by your vehicle’s warranty.
2-21

Engine Coolant Heater
Your vehicle may be equipped with an engine coolant
heater.
In very cold weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine
coolant heater can help. You will get easier starting
and 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.
At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant
heater is not required. Your vehicle may also have
an internal thermostat in the plug end of the cord. This
will prevent operation of the engine coolant heater
when the temperature is at or above 0°F (−18°C) as
noted on the cord.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. For
the 2.2L and 2.4L engines, the electrical cord is
located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle
between the strut and the air cleaner/lter.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
{CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the
wrong kind of extension cord could overheat
and cause a re. You could be seriously
injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded
three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will
not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and
store the cord as it was before to keep it away
from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could be
damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the
kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead
of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact
a GM dealer in the area where you will be parking
your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice
for that particular area.
2-22

Automatic Transaxle Operation
If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle,
the shift lever is located on the console between
the seats.
There are several different
positions for the automatic
transaxle.
PARK (P):This position locks your front wheels. It is
the best position to use when you start your engine
because your vehicle cannot move easily.{CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake rmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left
the engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured. To
be sure your vehicle will not move, even when
you are on fairly level ground, always set your
parking brake and move the shift lever to
PARK (P). SeeShifting Into Park (P) (Automatic
Transaxle) on page 2-29. If you are pulling a
trailer, seeTowing a Trailer (Automatic
Transaxle) on page 4-39orTowing a Trailer
(Manual Transaxle) on page 4-46.
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before
starting the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic
transaxle shift lock control system. You have to
fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift
from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in RUN.
2-23

If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure
on the shift lever — push the shift lever all the way into
PARK (P) and also release the shift lever button as you
maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into
the gear you wish. Press the shift lever button before
moving the shift lever. SeeShifting Out of Park (P)
(Automatic Transaxle) on page 2-30.
REVERSE (R):Use this gear to back up.
Notice:Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle
is moving forward could damage the transaxle.
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is
stopped.
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, seeIf
Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice, or Snow on
page 4-30.
NEUTRAL (N):In this position, your engine does not
connect with the wheels. To restart when you are
already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use
NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.
{CAUTION:
Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is
running at high speed is dangerous. Unless
your foot is rmly on the brake pedal, your
vehicle could move very rapidly. You could
lose control and hit people or objects. Do not
shift into a drive gear while your engine is
running at high speed.
Notice:Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
while the engine is running at high speed may
damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be
covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not
running at high speeds when shifting your vehicle.
Notice:Shifting to a drive gear from NEUTRAL (N)
while the vehicle is moving could damage the
transaxle. Make sure the vehicle is stopped before
shifting from NEUTRAL (N) into a drive gear.
2-24