check engine light CHEVROLET CAVALIER 1984 1.G User Guide

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
This optional gage is located in the instrument cluster. If the gage shows that
an overheat condition exists-as indicated by pointer moving beyond the
center of the band immediate action by the driver is required. If an overheat
condition is shown, see "Engine
Cooling System Overheating" in "In Case of
Emergency,"
Section 3 of this manual. The coolant temperature indication will VaIY with air temperature and operating conditions. The ignition must be in
"Run" for accurate readings. Prolonged driving or idling in very hot weather
may cause the pointer to move beyond the center of the gage. Make a practice
of scanning this and other gages
while driving, especially in hot weather and!
or when the
vehicle is under load.
CAUTION: II the Engine Coolant Temperature Gage shows an overheat condition or you have other reason to suspect the engine may be overheating, continued operation of the engine EVEN FOR A SHORT TIME may result in a fire and the risk of personal injury and/or severe vehicle damage. Take immediate action as outlined under "Engine Cooling System Overheating" in "In Case of Emergency," Section 3.
Oil Pressure Gage
The oil pressure gage indicates the pressure at which oil is being delivered to
the vaIiOUS paIls of the engine requiring lubrication. Pressures registered by
the gage may
vBIY according to outside air temperatures or weight of oil being
used. Oil pressure of a cold engine being operated at a given speed will be
somewhat higher than when the engine is at normal operating temperature at
the
SaIne speed. Prolonged high speed operation on a hot day at the given
speed will
resuH in somewhatlower oil pressure readings. Readings of 205 to
275 kPa
(30 to 40 psi) may be considered normal during moderate road
speeds of 35 to 40 mph (55 to 60 km!h) with the engine at proper operating
temperature. Gage readings which are consistently high
or low under these conditions may indicate lubrication system and/ or engine malfunction.
Light Switch
The three· position light switch controls the headlights, taillights, paIking lights,
sidemaIker lights,
instrument lights and dome lights.
Instrument light intensity can be varied by turning knob clockwise or
counterclockwise. Full counterclockwise position turns on interior light.
The headlight circuit is protected by a circuit breaker in the
light switch. An overload on the breaker will cause the lights to "flicker" on and off. If this
condition
develops, have your headlight wiring checked immediately. The
headlight beaIn changer is located in the Turn Signal Lever; for operation see
Section 2 under heading "Turn Signal and Muiji-Function Lever."·
Headlight High Beam Indicator Light
The headlights of your vehicle have. high and low beams to provide you with
proper nighttime visibility for most driving conditions. The
"low" beams are
used during most city driving. The
"high" beams are especially useful when
driving on daIk roads since they provide long range illumination. The headlight
beam indicator light (located on the speedometer face) will be ON whenever
the high beams or "brights" are in use. The turn
signal lever controls the
headlight beaIns and is described in "Steering Column Controls."
2-24

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine • Adjust the heating or cooWng system to force outside air into the cal as
follows :
1. On cars not equipped with air conditioning , set the fan to high speed
and the upper control lever to any position except "Off."
2 . On cars equipped with air condition ing, set the fan to high speed and
the
upper control lever to any position except "Off" or "Max."
• On cars that have outside air vents in or under the instrument panel, open
vents
fully .
"Gate Ajar" Ught
Station wagons have a "GATE AJAR" warning light located in the instrument
cluster . It is designed to come on ~ the liftgate is not lully closed and the
ignition is on , thus warning against driving with the liftgate even partially open.
See "Engine Exhaust Gas Caution (Carbon Monoxide)" at the beginning 01
"Starting and Operating ," Section 2 of this manual . To test that the ight circuit
is working correctly , start the car and check that the light comes on when the liftgate is open or only partially latched.
Electric Trunk, Hatchback , Or Tailgate Release
An electric release permits opening the trunk, hatchback or station wagon tailgate from inside the car by pressing a release bunon in the instrument panel
glove box. The release lor the hatchback and the station wagon tailgate will
function only II the automatic transaxle is in "P" (Park) or "N" (Neutral) or, on
manual transaxle cars, ~ the parking brake is applied .
SUNSHADE (OPTIONAL)
n your hatchback model is equipped with the optional louvered rear window
sunshade, the
sunshade·is hinged at the top and heid down at the boUom by a
one-quarter tum fastener on each end of the sunshade. This method of
attachment
allows you to raise the sunshade lor cleaning the exterior of the
hatchback glass :
To clean the hatchback lid exterior glass:
1. Using a coin or screwdriver , rotate each lastener one-quarter turn until they pop up; the sunshade is now unlocked .
2. Grasp the lower edge 01 the sunshade approximately in the middle and lift
the sunshade away Irom the hatchback lid.
3. Clean the hatchback glass as desired while holding the sunshade in the
open position.
4 . Lower the sunshade to
its original position and locate the one-quarter turn
fasteners over the holes in the lower bracket assemblies; using a coin or
screwdriver, push the one-quarter turn stud downward
until it engages the
wire bail on the bracket and rotate one-quarter turn to lock. (Make sure the
lastener is
locked to the bracket by. lifting each corner 01 the sunshade.)
NOnCE: DO NOT DRIVE when sunshade is not lOcked in position.
To remove the sunshade from the car, ~ desired , release the sunshade as you would lor cleaning. Then, remove the four nuts which secure the sunshade
hinges to the hinge base
plate on the hatchback lid. Wft the sunshade assembly from the car.
2-36

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine To store the sunshield when rennoved from the car, always select a place
where the sunshade can lay flat without anything stored on top of it or leaned against it. Hanging the sunshade flat on a wall by its hinges is an excellent way
to store it.
As with any decorative surface. washing with a mild soap and water solution is
recommended . Abrasive materials or chemical solvents may adversely affect
the finish of the sunshade.
FOLDING SEATBACK OPERATION
Station wagon and hatchback models are equipped with either a one-piece or split folding rear seatback which is not designed to lie flat, but does provide
additional load floor area when lowered .
To lower the one-piece second seatback, pull the lever at the right side of the
second seatback and fold down. Styles equipped with split folding rear
seatbacks have a
lever on both the right and left sides which allows either side
to be folded down separately . Stops on the load floor hold the seatback folding
panels. locking
the seatbacks down. To lock a seatback in place, push down on the front of the seatback and slip the filler panel over its stop on the load
floor .
To raise a seat back. push down on seatback to release it from its stop. lift the folding panel slightly to clear the stop, then raise the seatback.
Keep the seat
belt webbing and hardware clear of seat hinging and latching
mechanisms when you @ the folding seat. This helps prevent damage to the
belt system.
Check now and then
to see if the latch or latches, if so equipped, on the folding rear seat or seats work properly. To do this, push forward and pull
rearward on the top of the seatback or each seatback, if so equipped.
seatback(s) that
do not latch properly in the upright position. must be repaired
because
in a sudden stop rt could cause injury.
VISTA·VENT
The Vista-Vent is a hinged glass panel. The panel can be opened by moving
the
latch release handle forward and up to lock the glass in place. The glass
will
stay open only in the fully up position -when the rear of the glass is raised
about 38 mimmeters (1-1/ 2 inches) . As an added feature, an air deflector will
pop up when the glass panel is opened to help assure a smooth flow of air
over the roof.
2·37

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine OJ ROOF RAIL ASM.
ill CROSSRAI LS
mCRO~RAIL KNOBS
[!)TIE-DOWNS
The crossrails will adjust to help position your load. Rotate the large knob ("No.3" in the illustration) counterclockwise to move or remove . the crossrails ;
and clockwise to lighten down or install the crossrails .
Attached to the top
of the crossrails are two adjustable tie-downs ('·No. 4" in
the illustration). There is also one adjustable tie-down located in the center of
each outer roof
slat assembly (also called "No.4" in the illustration). The tie­downs may be easily moved within the outer slat assembly and across the top
of the crossrails to the desired position. To move the tie-down, rotate il
counterclockwise to loosen and clockwise to tight'lfl.95>wn. If needed 'to secure
a certain type of load, the tie-downs on the crossrails may be rerncved and
repositioned on the outer roof slat assemblies.
While under way, check, now and then to make sure, the crossrails, tle~
downs, and cargo are securely fastened, to help prevent damage or loss.
See your Chevrolet dealer for attachments to your Chevrolet luggage carrier to
hold bicycles, skis and other items, and for straps to help secure your cargo ,
which are available as accessories .
CAUTION: The cr0SSt8ils may be removed 'rom the root luggage carrier. Never carry the crour,ils loose or unseCured in the passenger area because they cookr be thrown
about and injure people during .. collision or a sudden maneuver. ee sure to stow t~ crossralla in the vinyl bag. Place the bag on the rea, load floor behind the second seat and secure the straps (on the bag) to the anchor brackets as ahown. The bag, and
brackets are designed to secure ONLY the crossrails.
2-41

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine 3. Install wheel and tire assembly and install hub cap by pushing or hitting
into place (the wheel can be mounted with hub cap in place). The hub cap
must be oriented by engaging the bump on the side of the hub cap
retention tab with the cutout on the side of the wheel pilot hole.
Compact Spare
The compact spare tire is designed to save space in your stowage area, and
its lighter weight makes it easier to install if a flat tire occurs. The lighter weight also helps improve fuel economy. ~--~------~~
" you have a flat tire, follow the jacking Instructions in this section, while keepingihese points in mind:
• Check the tire inflaiionpressureas soon as practical after installing the
spare (we suggest you use a 'pocket-type high'pressure inflation gage) and
adjust the pressure to 415
kilopascals (60 pounds per square inch). The
tire pressure should be checked at least monthly and kept at 415 kPa (60
psi) while the tire is stored . Also at least monthly , ·qheck that the spare lire is stowed securely ; tighten it if ~ is not.
NOTICE: Bee ... this tire is smaller than the standard tire, vehicle ground clearance is reduced. Do not take your vehicle through an automatic car wash while ~ spare I. Installed; the vehicle may catch on the equipment, possibly resulting In property damag_.
• YOU can expect a tread life up to 3,000 miles (4 800 kilometers), dependiQg on road conditions and your driving habits. The tire was designed to let you
finish an extended trip (up to 3,000 miles/4 800 kilometers) and buy a replacement tire, -if needed, at a store of your choice. However, to conserve
tire tread ~fe, return the spare to the stowage area as' soon as it is
convenient to have your standard tire repaired or replaced.
• Because the compact spare was specnically designed for your vehicle , ~ should not be used on any other vehicle.
• The compact spare tire and wheel are designed for use with each other.
The compact spare tire should not be mounted on any other type of wheel, and the compact spare wheel should not have any other type of tire
mounted on it. Also, do not try to use wheel covers or trim rings on the
CQr1l>aCt spare whe el since they will not fit. If such use is attempted,
damage to tIlese items or other vehicle components may occur.
• Do not use tire chains with your :compact spare tire. Because of the smaller tire size, a tire chain will not fit properly. This could cause damage to the
vehicle and result in loss of the chain.
3-7

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine NOTICE: H you need to replace the fuel cap, use only a cap specified for your model. An incorrect fuel cap can result in a serious maHunction of the fuel system or emission control system. You can get a correct replacement cap from your dealer.
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
The catalytic converter is an emission control device added to the exhaust system to reduce exhaust gas pollutants. The converter contains
a ceramic material coated with noble metal catalysts. To prevent contamination
and loss of effectiveness of the catalysts. unleaded gasoline must be used.
Unleaded
gasoline also reduces spark plug fouling, exhaust system corrosion and engine oil deterioration. Leaded gasoline will also damage the oxygen
sensor
in the Computer Command Control system which could affect emission
control.
To help prevent damage:
1. Keep your engine properly maintained. Engine malfunctions involving the
electrical, carburetion, electronic fuel injection or ignition systems may
result in unusually high catalytic converter and exhaust system
temperatures which, under extreme malfunctioning conditions, may ignite
interior floor ·covering materials above the converter. Do not keep driving
your vehicle if you detect engine misfire, noticeable loss of
performance, or other unusual operating conditions. Instead, have it
serviced promptly. See the Maintenance Schedule folder for information on inspecting and maintaining the engine, exhaust system, and other
components.
2. Do not push or tow this vehicle to start it. This may result in unusually
high catalytic converter
and exhaust system temperatures which under
extreme conditions may ignite interior floor-covering material above the
converter.
Disregarding these instructions
could damage the catalytic converter, the vehicle, or nearby property and affect warranty coverage.
COMPUTER COMMAND CONTROL SYSTEM
Most vehicles sold in the United States (and some vehicles sold in Canada)
have the Computer Command Control system.
The Computer Command Control system monitors the exhaust stream with
an oxygen sensor. Based on sensor signals, the electronic control module adjusts
the air-fuel ratio
as needed. It is very important to use only unleaded
gasoline in vehicles equipped with the Computer Command Control system.
Leaded gasoline will damage the oxygen sensor,
and may affect emission
control.
"Check Engine" Light
Most vehicles sold in the United States (and some vehicles sold in Canada)
have the Computer Command Control system.
Vehicles
.with the Computer Command Control system, include a "CHECK
ENGINE" light
on the instrument panel designed to indicate the need for
system service. It will come on during engine starting to let you know the bulb
is working. (The
light will stay on a short time aiter the engine starts.) Have the
system repaired if the "CHECK ENGINE" light does not come on during engine
starting.
If the light comes on, either intermittently or continuously while driving,
service to the Computer Command Control system is required. Although in
5-2

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine The cooting system was filled at the factory with a quality coolant that meets
GM Specifications.
~ is important to use proper coolant to prevent damage to
cooling system components . Coolants meeting GM Specification 1825-M or
those specially formulated for aluminum co"1JOflent protection should be used.
The cooling system is designed to use coolant (a mixture of ethylene glycol ,
corrosion inhibitors and water) rather than plain water. The coolant solution
must be used year round
to provide:
• freezing protection down to -37'C (-34'F),
• boiling protection up to 128 'C (262'F),
• protection against rust and corrosion in the cooling system,
• the proper engine temperature for efficient operation and emission control,
and
• proper operation of the coolant temperature light or gage .
See the Maintenance Schedule folder to find out when the coolant must be
replaced . Note that changing the coolant is needed
to make certain that all
parts
of the cooling system work well.
.-~~~~--~-.
CooUng System Care
Check the cooling system at regular intervals, such as during fuel sI the engine hood and look at the "see through" coolant recovery tank. When Ih8 engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or slightly above the "Full
Cold' .' mark on the recovery ' tank. When the engine has fully warmed up, the
level should be at or slightly above the "Full Hot" mark on the recovery tank.
H·the coolant level is low, remove the cap on the coolant recovery tank. Add to the recovery tank enough of a SO/ SO mixture 01 water and a good quality
eIIlyIene gIyool antifreeze (meeting GM SpecWication 1825-M) to bfing the level
"" to the proper mark. Pui the cap back on the recovery tank.
CAUTION: Under some' condttlons . the ethytene glycol In engine' coolant is combultlble. To help Rold being burMCf when adding eoollnt, DO NOT spill It on the exhliUlt system or engine ~rtI tMt mIIy be haL tf there It any question,' have this .....,ice performed by .• quallftecl t.chnlclan.
Certain conditions, such as air trapped in the system, may effect the coolant level in the radiator . You should check the coolant level in the radiator at the
time you change the engine 011 and when the engine Is cold. Follow the steps
under
"Adding Coolant" for the correct way to remove the radiator cap and add coolant.
5-8

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine If you have to add coolant more than four times a year (either to the recovery
tank or to the radiator), or if
coolant is dirty or discolored, see your dealer for a cooling system check.
NOTICE: rr you use the proper quality antifreeze, there is no need to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system. They may be harmful to the proper operation of the system.
Adding Coolant
CAUTION: To help avoid the danger of being burned, do not remove the radiator cap while the engine and radiator are stili hot. Scalding fluid and steam can be blown out under pressure if the cap is taken off too soon.
1. When the engine is cool, remove the radiator cap.
• Turn the cap slowly to the left until it reaches a "stop." Do not press
down
while turning the cap.
• Wait until any remaining pressure (indicated by a hissing sound) is relieved, then press down on the cap and continue turning it to the left.
2. Add enough water and ethylene glycol anmreeze (meeting GM Specification 1825-M) to provide the required cooling, freezing and
corrosion protection. Use a solution that is at least 50 percent antifreeze
but no more than 70 percent antHreeze. Fill the radiator to the base of the
filler neck and fill the coolahUocave,y lank to at or above the "Full Hot" mark. Put the recovery tank cap back on.
3. Run the engine, with the radiator cap removed, until the upper radiator
hose is
hot. With the engine idling, add coolant to the radiator until it
reaches
the bottom of the filler neck. Install the radiator cap, making sure
the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler
neck.
II is Ihe owner's responsibility 10:
• Maintain cooling system freeze protection at -37°G (-34°F) to ensUre
protection against corrosion and loss of coolant from boiling. (A SO/SO mixture of water and ethylene glycol antifreeze will provide freeze
protection to -37°G or -34°F.) You should do this even if you don't
expect freezing temperatures. Periodic
replacement of coolant is needed to replace the anti-corrosion additives that wear out with use. Coolant that
has become dark in color shows that it needs to be changed for this reason.
• Add ethylene glycol base antifreeze that meets GM SpecHication 1825-M
when antifreeze has to be added because of coolant loss or for more
protection against freezing at temperatures less than stated.
NOTICE: Do not use methanol-base antifreeze, or alcohol, . or plain water alone, in your vehicle at anytime. They will boil ata lower point than that at which the "TEMP" light (or temperature gage) will warn of overheating, and they do not provide proper protection against corrosion.
Thermostat
The engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat. It stops coolant
flow through the radiator until a preset temperature is reached. This thermostat
is installed in the engine coolant oullet on the engine block. The same
thermostat is used in both winter and summer. When a replacement is needed, AG-Oelco paris are recommended.
5-9

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine LAMP BULB DATA
RATING
APPLICATION BULB NO. QUANTITY CANOLEPOWER
FRONT LAMPS
Headlamp -Inner-Std. 4651 2 50 Watts
-Inner-Halogen H4651 2 50 Watts
-Outer 4652 2 60/40 Watts
Park & Turn Signal 2057 2 32
Sidemarker 194 2 2
REAR LAMPS
Back-up 1156 2 32
license -Exc. Wagon 194 1 2
-Wagon 194 2 2
Sidemarker 194 2 2
Tail & Stop -Exc. Wagon 2057 2 2/32
Tail, Stop & Turn Signal -Wagon 2057 2 2/32
Turn Signal -Exc. Wagon 1156 . 2 32
INTERIOR ILLUMINATION
Ale -Heater Control
I
168 1
3
Ash Tray 168 1 3 ~-..... -Auto Trans 168 1
3
Courtesy lamp 906
I
2 6
Dome Lamp Std. 561 1 12
Dome & Reading -Dome 562
I
1 6
-Reading 90 1 6
Glove Box 194 1 2
instrument Cluster 194/168 2/4 2/3
Luggage/Cargo -Exc. Wagon 1003
I
1 15
-Wagon 561 1 12
Radio Dial 194 1 2
U nderhood lamp 93 1 15
WARNING LIGHTS & INDICATORS
Brake 194 1 2
Check Engine 168 1 3
High Beam 194 1 2
Oil Pressure 194
I
1 2
Seat Belt 168 1 3
Tailgate Ajar 194 l' 2
Temperature 194 1 2
Turn Signal 194 2 2
Upshift
I
168 1 3
Volts (Batter) 194 1 2 y
6·3

Downloaded from www.Manualslib.com manuals search engine FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected tram short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers. and fusible
thermal links in the wiring itsel!. This greatly reduces the hazard
of electrically caused fires in the automobile. For access to fuses, grasp the handle of the fuseblock (located under the left
hand side of the instrument panel) and pull the fuseblock
downward . Swing the bottom of the fuseblock back up until it
latches when access is no longer desired.
The headlight wiring is protected by a circuit breaker in the light
switch .
An electrical overload will cause the lights to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off .. If this happens, have your
headlight wiring checked right away. The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit breaker in addition to a fuse . If the motor
overheats, due to overloading caused
by heavy snow, etc., the
wiper will remain stopped until the motor cools; 8e sure to have the cause of the overloading corrected.
Also, circuit breakers in the fuseblock protect the power win· dows and other power accessories. When the current load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes intermittently,
protecting the circuit until the cause is found and eliminated.
6-4