power steering CHEVROLET CAVALIER 2002 3.G Owners Manual

2-20
B (LOCK): This position locks your steering wheel,
ignition, shift lever and transaxle. This is the only
position from which you can remove the key. A warning
chime will sound if you open the driver's door when the
ignition is in LOCK and the key is in the ignition.
CAUTION:
On manual transaxle vehicles, turning the key to
LOCK 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 only
to OFF. Don't press the key release button while
the vehicle is moving.
NOTICE:
If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can't
turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if
so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the
steering wheel left and right while you turn the
key hard. Turn the key only with your hand.
Using a tool to force it could break the key or the
ignition switch. If none of this works, then your
vehicle needs service.
C (OFF): This position unlocks the steering wheel,
ignition and transaxle, but does not send power to any
accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be
pushed or towed, but never try to push
-start your
vehicle. A warning chime will sound if you open the
driver's door when the ignition is in OFF and the key
is in the ignition.

2-57
The main components of your instrument panel are the following:
A. Fog Lamp Button (If Equipped)
B. Instrument Panel Brightness Control
C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
D. Instrument Panel Cluster
E. Hazard Warning Flashers Switch
F. Ignition Switch
G. Windshield Wiper/Washer Controls
H. Cigarette Lighter (If Equipped)
I. Audio SystemJ. Climate Controls and Rear Window Defogger
K. Fuse Panel
L. Remote Trunk Release Button
M. Hood Release Lever
N. Tilt Steering Wheel Lever (If Equipped)
O. Parking Brake Lever
P. Accessory Power Outlet
Q. Shift Lever

4-9
Remember: Anti-lock doesn't 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 won't 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
anti
-lock brakes.
Using Anti
-Lock
Don't pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down
firmly and let anti
-lock work for you. You may feel a
slight brake pedal pulsation or notice some noise,
but this is normal.
Braking in Emergencies
With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same
time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more
than even the very best braking.
Enhanced Traction System
If your vehicle has the optional four-speed automatic
transaxle, it also has an Enhanced Traction System (ETS)
that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery
road conditions. The system operates only when the
transaxle shift lever is in the REVERSE (R), THIRD (3)
or OVERDRIVE (
) position and the system senses that
one or both of the front wheels are spinning or beginning
to lose traction. When this happens, the system reduces
engine power and may also upshift the transaxle to limit
wheel spin.
United States Canada
This light will come on when your Enhanced Traction
System is limiting wheel spin. See ªEnhanced Traction
System Active Lightº in the Index.
You may feel or hear the system working, but this
is normal.

4-11
Steering
Power Steering
If you lose power steering assist because the engine
stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer
but it will take much more effort.
Steering Tips
Driving on Curves
It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the ªdriver lost controlº accidents mentioned
on the news happen on curves. Here's why:
Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject
to the same laws of physics when driving on curves.
The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it
possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn
the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia will keep
the vehicle going in the same direction. If you've ever
tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you'll understand this.
The traction you can get in a curve depends on the
condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at
which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you're
in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control.Suppose you're steering through a sharp curve. Then you
suddenly accelerate. Both control systems
-- steering and
acceleration
-- have to do their work where the tires meet
the road. Adding the sudden acceleration can demand too
much of those places. You can lose control. Refer to
ªEnhanced Traction Systemº in the Index.
What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the
accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it
to go, and slow down.
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should
adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are
based on good weather and road conditions. Under less
favorable conditions you'll want to go slower.
If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a
curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front
wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your speed so you can ªdriveº through
the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to
accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then
accelerate gently into the straightaway.

6-
6-1
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care
Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information,
and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your
vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
6
-2 Service
6
-3 Fuel
6
-5 Fuels in Foreign Countries
6
-6 Filling Your Tank
6
-8 Filling a Portable Fuel Container
6
-9 Checking Things Under the Hood
6
-14 Engine Oil
6
-21 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
6
-23 Automatic Transaxle Fluid
6
-24 Manual Transaxle Fluid
6
-24 Hydraulic Clutch
6
-25 Engine Coolant
6
-28 Surge Tank Pressure Cap
6
-29 Power Steering Fluid6
-29 Windshield Washer Fluid
6
-31 Brakes
6
-35 Battery
6
-36 Bulb Replacement
6
-43 Tires
6
-51 Appearance Care
6
-52 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
6
-54 Care of Safety Belts
6
-55 Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
6
-60 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
6
-61 Electrical System
6
-66 Replacement Bulbs
6
-66 Capacities and Specifications
6
-67 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

6-11 Engine Compartment Overview
When you open the hood on the 2.2L L4 (LN2) engine, you'll see:
A. Coolant Surge Tank
B. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
C. Engine Oil Fill Cap/DipstickD. Brake Fluid Reservoir
E. Clutch Master Cylinder
Reservoir (If Equipped)F. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
G. Battery
H. Windshield Washer
Fluid Reservoir

6-12
When you open the hood on the 2.2L L4 ECOTEC
(L61) engine, you'll see:
A. Coolant Surge Tank
B. Engine Oil Dipstick
C. Engine Oil Fill Cap
D. Brake Fluid ReservoirE. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
F. Clutch Master Cylinder
Reservoir (If Equipped)
(Not Shown)G. Battery
H. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
I. Windshield Washer
Fluid Reservoir

6-13
When you open the hood on the 2.4L L4 (LD9) engine, you'll see:
A. Coolant Surge Tank
B. Engine Oil Fill Cap
C. Engine Oil DipstickD. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
E. Brake Fluid Reservoir
F. Clutch Master Cylinder
Reservoir (If Equipped)G. Battery
H. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
I. Windshield Washer
Fluid Reservoir

6-29
Power Steering Fluid
For the 2.2L L4 (LN2)
engine, the power steering
fluid reservoir is located
toward the rear of the
engine compartment on
the passenger's side of
the vehicle.
For the 2.2L L4 ECOTEC (L61) and 2.4L L4 (LD9)
engines, it is located toward the front of the engine
compartment on the driver's side of the vehicle.
See ªEngine Compartment Overviewº in the Index
for more information on location.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering
fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or
you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system
could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and
repaired. See ªEngine Compartment Overviewº in the
Index for reservoir location.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down,
wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then
unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.
Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove
the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
The level should be at the ªCº mark. If necessary, add
only enough fluid to bring the level up to the mark.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº in the Index.
Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper
fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.
Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read
the manufacturer's instructions before use. If you will be
operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature
may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient
protection against freezing. See ªEngine Compartment
Overviewº in the Index for reservoir location.

7-35
Part C: Periodic
Maintenance Inspections
Listed in this part are inspections and services which
should be performed at least twice a year (for instance,
each spring and fall). You should let your dealer's
service department or other qualified service center
do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are
completed at once.
Proper procedures to perform these services may be
found in a service manual. See ªService and Owner
Publicationsº in the Index.
Steering, Suspension and Front Drive
Axle Boot and Seal Inspection
Inspect the front and rear suspension and steering
system for damaged, loose or missing parts, signs of
wear or lack of lubrication. Inspect the power steering
lines and hoses for proper hook
-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc. Clean and then inspect the
drive axle boot seals for damage, tears or leakage.
Replace seals if necessary.
Exhaust System Inspection
Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body
near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged,
missing or out
-of-position parts as well as open seams,
holes, loose connections or other conditions which could
cause a heat build
-up in the floor pan or could let exhaust
fumes into the vehicle. See ªEngine Exhaustº in the Index.
Fuel System Inspection
Inspect the complete fuel system for damage or leaks.
Engine Cooling System Inspection
Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are
cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings
and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the
radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure
proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system
and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.
Throttle System Inspection
Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding,
and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as
needed. Replace any components that have high effort
or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and
cruise control cables.