traction control SATURN VUE HYBRID 2008 Owners Manual

Instrument Panel Overview...............................3-4
Hazard Warning Flashers................................3-6
Horn .............................................................3-6
Tilt Wheel.....................................................3-6
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever.........................3-7
Turn and Lane-Change Signals........................3-7
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer..................3-8
Flash-to-Pass.................................................3-8
Windshield Wipers..........................................3-8
Rainsense™ II Wipers.....................................3-9
Windshield Washer.......................................3-10
Rear Window Wiper/Washer...........................3-11
Cruise Control..............................................3-11
Exterior Lamps.............................................3-14
Wiper Activated Headlamps............................3-14
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).......................3-15
Automatic Headlamp System..........................3-15
Instrument Panel Brightness...........................3-16
Dome Lamp .................................................3-16
Entry Lighting...............................................3-16
Reading Lamps............................................3-17
Battery Run-Down Protection..........................3-17
Accessory Power Outlet(s).............................3-17
Climate Controls............................................3-18
Automatic Climate Control System...................3-18
Outlet Adjustment.........................................3-23
Passenger Compartment Air Filter...................3-23Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators............3-25
Instrument Panel Cluster................................3-26
Speedometer and Odometer...........................3-27
Trip Odometer..............................................3-27
Tachometer.................................................3-27
Safety Belt Reminders...................................3-28
Airbag Readiness Light..................................3-29
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator...................3-30
Charging System Light..................................3-32
Brake System Warning Light..........................3-32
Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light. . . .3-33
Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light . . .3-34
Electronic Stability Program Indicator Light.......3-34
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light......3-35
Tire Pressure Light.......................................3-35
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.............................3-36
Oil Pressure Light.........................................3-38
Change Engine Oil Light................................3-39
Security Light...............................................3-40
Cruise Control Light......................................3-40
Highbeam On Light.......................................3-40
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light.....................3-40
Fuel Gage...................................................3-41
Low Fuel Warning Light.................................3-42
Auto Stop Mode...........................................3-42
Charge/Assist Gage......................................3-43
Fuel Economy Light......................................3-43
Section 3 Instrument Panel
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The main components of the instrument panel are the following:
A. Air Outlets. SeeOutlet Adjustment on page 3-23.
B. Instrument Panel Brightness Control. SeeInstrument
Panel Brightness on page 3-16.
C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. SeeTurn
Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7.
D. Instrument Panel Cluster. SeeInstrument Panel
Cluster on page 3-26.
E. Windshield Wiper Lever. SeeWindshield Wipers on
page 3-8.
F. Audio System. SeeAudio System(s) on page 3-59.
G. Auxiliary Input Jack. SeeRadio(s) on page 3-62.
H. Exterior Lamps Control. SeeExterior Lamps
on page 3-14.
I. Instrument Panel Storage Area. SeeInstrument
Panel Storage on page 2-42.
J. Hood Release. SeeHood Release on page 5-11.
K. Cruise Control Buttons. SeeCruise Control on
page 3-11.
L. Tilt Wheel Lever. SeeTilt Wheel on page 3-6.M. Horn. SeeHorn on page 3-6.
N. Audio Steering Wheel Controls. SeeAudio Steering
Wheel Controls on page 3-76.
O. Rear Window Wiper/Washer. SeeRear Window
Wiper/Washer on page 3-11.
P. Traction Control System Button. SeeTraction
Control System (TCS) on page 4-7
Q. Shift Lever. SeeAutomatic Transmission Operation
on page 2-23.
R. Automatic Climate Control System. SeeAutomatic
Climate Control System on page 3-18.
S. Hazard Warning Flasher Button. SeeHazard
Warning Flashers on page 3-6.
T. Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator. SeePassenger
Airbag Status Indicator on page 3-30.
U. Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Display.
SeeSafety Belt Reminders on page 3-28.
V. Glove Box. SeeGlove Box on page 2-41.
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Rear Window Wiper/Washer
The rear wiper and rear wash button is located on the
instrument panel above the climate control system.
=(Rear Wiper/Washer):Press this button to wash
and wipe the rear window.
The rear window washer uses the same reservoir as
the windshield washer. Check the windshield washer
reservoir level if the front windshield can be worked, but
no uid is sprayed when the rear washer is activated.
SeeWindshield Washer Fluid on page 5-29.
5(Delay):Press this button to turn the delayed wiping
on or off.
Cruise Control
With cruise control, the vehicle can maintain a speed
of about 25 mph (40 km/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
25 mph (40 km/h).
{CAUTION:
Cruise control can be dangerous where you
cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do
not use your cruise control on winding roads
or in heavy traffic.
Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery
roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire
traction can cause excessive wheel slip, and
you could lose control. Do not use cruise
control on slippery roads.
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Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light
The Traction Control
System (TCS) warning
light may come on for
the following reasons:
The system is turned off by pressing the traction
control button located above the audio system on
the instrument panel. The warning light will come
on and stay on. Press the button again, to turn the
system back on. The warning light should go off.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on page 4-7for
more information.
An engine and brake system problem related to
traction control makes the TCS turn off.
If the TCS warning light comes on and stays on for an
extended period of time when the system is turned
on, your vehicle needs service.
Electronic Stability Program
Indicator Light
This comes on briey
when the engine is started.
It ashes while the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) or
the Traction Control System (TCS) is working. This light
will come on when the ESP has been turned off and if
there is a problem with the ESP or the TCS. SeeTraction
Control System (TCS) on page 4-7andElectronic
Stability Program on page 4-8for more information.
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SERVICE AIR BAG
This message displays when there is a problem with
the airbag system. Have your vehicle serviced by your
dealer/retailer immediately. SeeAirbag Readiness
Light on page 3-29for more information.
SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM
This message displays and a chime sounds when the
brake uid level is low. The brake system warning
light also appears on the instrument panel cluster when
this message appears on the DIC. SeeBrake System
Warning Light on page 3-32. Have the brake system
serviced by your dealer/retailer as soon as possible.
SERVICE HILL START ASSIST
This message displays if there is a problem with the
hill start assist function. Have your vehicle serviced by
your dealer/retailer.
SERVICE HYBRID SYSTEM
This message displays if the hybrid components need
to be serviced. Have your vehicle serviced by your
dealer/retailer.
SERVICE POWER STEERING
This message displays if there has been a problem
detected with the power steering. SeeSteering
on page 4-9for more information.
SERVICE STABILITRAK
This message displays if there has been a problem
detected with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
A warning light also appears on the instrument
panel cluster. SeeTraction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light on page 3-34. SeeElectronic Stability
Program on page 4-8for more information.
If this message turns on while you are driving, pull off
the road as soon as possible and stop carefully. Try
resetting the system by turning the ignition off and then
back on. If this message still stays on or turns back on
again while you are driving, your vehicle needs service.
Have the system inspected by your dealer/retailer as
soon as possible.
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SERVICE TIRE MONITORING SYSTEM
This message displays if a part on the Tire Pressure
Monitor System (TPMS) is not working properly. The tire
pressure light also ashes and then remains on during
the same ignition cycle. SeeTire Pressure Light on
page 3-35. Several conditions may cause this message
to appear. SeeTire Pressure Monitor Operation on
page 5-55for more information. If the warning comes on
and stays on, there may be a problem with the TPMS.
See your dealer/retailer.
SERVICE TRACTION CONTROL
This message displays when the Traction Control
System (TCS) is not functioning properly. A warning
light also appears on the instrument panel cluster.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) Warning Light
on page 3-34andTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-7for more information. Have the TCS serviced
by your dealer/retailer as soon as possible.
SERVICE TRANSMISSION
This message displays when there is a problem with the
transmission. See your dealer/retailer for service.
SERVICE VEHICLE SOON
This message displays when a non-emissions related
malfunction occurs. Have the vehicle serviced by
your dealer/retailer as soon as possible.
SPEED LIMITED TO XXX MPH (KM/H)
This message displays when your vehicle speed is
limited to 80 mph (128 km/h) because the vehicle detects
a problem in the speed variable assist steering system.
Have your vehicle serviced by your dealer/retailer.
STABILITRAK NOT READY
This message may display and a warning light on the
instrument panel cluster may be on after rst driving the
vehicle and exceeding 30 mph (48 km/h) for 30 seconds.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) Warning Light on
page 3-34. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is not
functional until the light has turned off. SeeElectronic
Stability Program on page 4-8for more information.
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TRACTION CONTROL OFF
This message displays when the Traction Control
System (TCS) turns off. SeeTraction Control
System (TCS) on page 4-7for more information.
This message only displays while the ignition is in
ON/RUN and disappears after 10 seconds, unless
it is acknowledged or an urgent warning appears.
Any of the following conditions may cause the TCS to
turn off:
The TCS is turned off by pressing the ESP/TCS
button. SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-7for more information.
The battery is low.
There is a TCS failure. See your dealer/retailer for
service.
TRACTION CONTROL ON
This message displays when the Traction Control
System (TCS) turns on. SeeTraction Control
System (TCS) on page 4-7for more information.
TRANSMISSION HOT IDLE ENGINE
Notice:If you drive your vehicle while the
transmission uid is overheating and the
transmission temperature warning is displayed
on the instrument panel cluster and/or DIC, you
can damage the transmission. This could lead to
costly repairs that would not be covered by your
warranty. Do not drive your vehicle with overheated
transmission uid or while the transmission
temperature warning is displayed.
This message displays along with a chime if the
transmission uid in the vehicle gets hot. Driving with the
transmission uid temperature high can cause damage
to the vehicle. Stop the vehicle and let it idle to allow the
transmission to cool. This message clears and the chime
stops when the uid temperature reaches a safe level.
TURN SIGNAL ON
This message displays as a reminder to turn off the turn
signal if you drive your vehicle for more than about
3/4 mile (1.2 km) with a turn signal on. SeeTurn and
Lane-Change Signals on page 3-7for more information.
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Audio System(s)
Determine which radio your vehicle has and then
read the pages following to familiarize yourself with
its features.
{CAUTION:
This system provides you with 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.
Keeping your mind on the drive is important for
safe driving. SeeDefensive Driving on page 4-3.
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/
retailer. 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 2-18for more
information.
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Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle..........4-2
Driving Your Vehicle.......................................4-2
Driver Behavior..............................................4-2
Driving Environment........................................4-2
Vehicle Design...............................................4-3
Defensive Driving...........................................4-3
Drunk Driving.................................................4-4
Control of a Vehicle........................................4-5
Braking.........................................................4-5
Antilock Brake System (ABS)...........................4-6
Braking in Emergencies...................................4-6
Traction Control System (TCS).........................4-7
Electronic Stability Program..............................4-8
Steering........................................................4-9
Off-Road Recovery.......................................4-12
Passing.......................................................4-12Loss of Control.............................................4-12
Driving at Night............................................4-14
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads..................4-14
Before Leaving on a Long Trip.......................4-16
Highway Hypnosis........................................4-16
Hill and Mountain Roads................................4-16
Winter Driving..............................................4-17
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud,
Ice, or Snow.............................................4-21
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out.................4-22
Loading Your Vehicle....................................4-22
Towing..........................................................4-28
Towing Your Vehicle.....................................4-28
Recreational Vehicle Towing...........................4-28
Towing a Trailer...........................................4-31
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle
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Control of a Vehicle
The following three systems help to control your vehicle
while driving — brakes, steering, and accelerator. At
times, as when driving on snow or ice, it is easy to ask
more of those control systems than the tires and road can
provide. Meaning, you can lose control of your vehicle.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on page 4-7.
Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affect
your vehicle’s performance. SeeAccessories and
Modifications on page 5-3.
Braking
SeeBrake System Warning Light on page 3-32.
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 the brakes; the weight
of the vehicle; and the amount of brake force applied.
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. The brakes might not have time to cool
between hard stops. The brakes will wear out much
faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace
with the traffic and allow realistic following distances,
you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking.
That means better braking and longer brake life.
If your vehicle’s engine ever stops while you are driving,
brake normally but do not pump the brakes. If you do,
the pedal could get harder to push down. If the engine
stops, you will still have some power brake assist.
But you will use it when you brake. Once the power
assist is used up, it can take longer to stop and the
brake pedal will be harder to push.
Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can
affect your vehicle’s performance. SeeAccessories
and Modifications on page 5-3.
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