engine CHEVROLET CORVETTE 2008 6.G Repair Manual

SHIFT TO PARK
If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, this
message displays if the vehicle is not in PARK (P) when
the engine is being turned off. The vehicle will be in
ACCESSORY Once the shift lever is moved to
PARK (P), the vehicle will turn off.
The vehicle will remain in ACCESSORY, without the
20 minute time-out period, until the shift lever is moved
to PARK (P) or until the driver presses the pushbutton
to restart the vehicle. SeeIgnition Positions on
page 2-22for more information.
SHIFT TO PARK OR SET PARK BRAKE
FOR TOP
If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, this
message displays and a chime sounds if you try to
operate the power convertible top without rst shifting
into PARK (P) or setting the parking brake. Either
shift the vehicle into PARK (P) or set the parking brake
before trying to operate the power convertible top.
SeeConvertible Top (Manual) on page 2-62or
Convertible Top (Power) on page 2-68for more
information.
SHOCKS INOPERATIVE
This message displays when a malfunction is present in
the Selective Ride Control system which is causing
the shocks to be in their full soft mode. This is a warning
to the driver that the vehicle handling may be affected.
Have your vehicle serviced by your dealer/retailer
as soon as possible.
To acknowledge the message, press the RESET button.
The message reappears every 10 minutes until this
condition changes.
TIRE FLAT
{CAUTION:
When the LOW TIRE PRESSURE or TIRE FLAT
message is displayed on the Driver Information
Center, your vehicle’s handling capabilities will
be reduced during severe maneuvers. If you
drive too fast, you could lose control of your
vehicle. You or others could be injured. Do not
drive over 55 mph (90 km/h) when the LOW
TIRE PRESSURE or TIRE FLAT message is
displayed. Drive cautiously and check your tire
pressures as soon as you can.
3-70

TRACTION SYSTEM – ON
This message displays and a single, quick tone sounds
when the Traction Control System (TCS) is turned
on by pressing the Active Handling System button on
the console. This message automatically clears from the
DIC display on its own. SeeTraction Control System
(TCS) on page 4-6for more information.
TRANSMISSION HOT IDLE ENGINE
This message displays and four chimes sound if the
transmission uid temperature rises above 270°F
(132°C) or rises rapidly. The transmission may shift
gears or apply the torque converter clutch to reduce the
uid temperature. Driving aggressively or driving on
long hills can cause the transmission uid temperature
to be higher than normal. If this message appears,
you may continue to drive at a slower speed. Monitor
the transmission uid temperature and allow it to cool
to at least 230°F (110°C). The transmission uid
temperature can be monitored with the gages button on
the DIC. SeeDIC Operation and Displays on page 3-52
andAutomatic Transmission Fluid on page 5-27.
Also check the engine coolant temperature. If it is also
hot, seeEngine Overheating on page 5-31.
If this message is displayed during normal vehicle
operation on at roads, your vehicle may need service.
See your dealer/retailer for an inspection.If driving in a performance or competitive manner,
the use of (S) Sport Automatic Mode or (S) Sport
Manual Paddle Shift gear selection is recommended.
SeeAutomatic Transmission Operation on page 2-26
for more information.
To acknowledge the message, press the RESET button.
The message reappears every 10 minutes until this
condition changes. If you do not press the RESET
button, the message remains on the display until the
condition changes.TURN SIGNAL ON
This message displays and a chime sounds if a turn
signal is left on for three-quarters of a mile (1.2 km).
Move the turn signal/multifunction lever to the off
position.
To acknowledge this message, press the RESET
button.
UNLATCH HEADER TO MOVE TOP
This message displays and a chime sounds if you try to
lower the convertible top without rst unlocking the
top. Move the latch handle to unlock the convertible top.
SeeConvertible Top (Manual) on page 2-62or
Convertible Top (Power) on page 2-68.
3-73

Entering the Personal Options Menu
To enter the personal options menu, use the following
steps:
1. If you have an automatic transmission vehicle,
turn the vehicle on with the shift lever in PARK (P).
If you have a manual transmission vehicle, turn
the vehicle on with the parking brake set.
To avoid excessive drain on the battery, it is
recommended that the headlamps are turned off.
2. Press the OPTION button and you will enter the
PERSONAL OPTIONS menu.
The DIC will display the current driver
number (1 or 2) for a few seconds and then will
display instructions on which buttons to use
for setting the personalizations. The RESET button
is used to select a setting for a particular feature.
The OPTION button is used to move to the
next feature.
3. Press the OPTION button while the instruction
screen is displayed to enter the rst personalization
menu item.
4. Once you have cycled through all of the personal
options, pressing the OPTION button a nal time
exits the personal options menu. In addition,
if no button is pressed within 45 seconds, the DIC
will exit the personal options menu.
Personal Options
The following options are available for programming:
Display Units:This option allows you to choose
the measurement units.
Press the OPTION button until DISPLAY UNITS appears
on the display, then press the RESET button to scroll
through the following modes:
ENGLISH (default)
METRIC
If you choose ENGLISH, all information will be displayed
in English units.
If you choose METRIC, all information will be displayed
in metric units.
When the mode you want is selected, press the
OPTION button to set your choice and advance to the
next personal option.
Auto Memory Recall (Automatic Transmission only):
If your automatic transmission vehicle has the memory
package, you may have this option. This option
allows the driver’s seat, the telescopic steering column,
if your vehicle has this feature, and the outside
rearview mirrors to automatically move to the current
driver’s set position when the engine starts.
3-76

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 4-2.
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/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 2-23for more
information.
3-84

Braking
SeeBrake System Warning Light on page 3-41.
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.
Under certain weather or operating conditions,
occasional brake squeak, squeal, or other noise might
be heard with your vehicle’s performance braking
system. This brake system is designed for superior fade
resistance and consistent operation using high
performance brake pads. Brake noise is normal and
does not affect system performance.
Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affect
your vehicle’s performance. SeeAccessories and
Modifications on page 5-3.
4-4

Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Your vehicle has the Antilock Brake System (ABS), an
advanced electronic braking system that will help
prevent a braking skid.
When you start the engine and begin to drive away,
ABS will check itself. You might hear a momentary
motor or clicking noise while this test is going on, and
you might even notice that the brake pedal moves
a little. This is normal.
If there is a problem with
ABS, this warning light will
stay on. SeeAntilock Brake
System (ABS) Warning
Light on page 3-42.
Let us say the road is wet and you are driving safely.
Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam
on the brakes and continue braking. Here is what
happens with ABS:
A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If
one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer
will separately work the brakes at each wheel.ABS can change the brake pressure faster than any
driver could. The computer is programmed to make the
most of available tire and road conditions. This can
help you steer around the obstacle while braking hard.
As you brake, the computer keeps receiving updates
on wheel speed and controls braking pressure
accordingly.
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 the 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 antilock work for you. You might 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.
4-5

Traction Control System (TCS)
Your vehicle has a traction control system called TCS
that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery
road conditions. The system operates only if it senses
that the rear wheels are spinning too much or are
beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the
system works the rear brakes and reduces engine power
(by closing the throttle and managing engine spark) to
limit wheel spin.
The TRACTION SYSTEM ACTIVE message displays on
the Driver Information Center (DIC) when the TCS
system is limiting wheel spin. SeeDIC Warnings and
Messages on page 3-57. You may feel or hear the
system working, but this is normal.
If your vehicle is in cruise control when the TCS system
begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will
automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you
to safely use it again, you may re-engage the cruise
control. SeeTurn Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-8.The SERVICE TRACTION
SYSTEM message and the
TCS warning light will come
on to let you know if there is
a problem with your TCS
system. SeeDIC Warnings
and Messages on
page 3-57.
When this light and the SERVICE TRACTION SYSTEM
message are on, the system will not limit wheel spin.
Adjust your driving accordingly.
The TCS 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 TCS system off if
you ever need to.
4-6

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.
Magnetic Speed Variable Assist
Steering
Your vehicle has a steering system that continuously
adjusts the effort you feel when steering at all vehicle
speeds. It provides ease when parking, yet a rm, solid
feel at highway speeds.
Steering Tips
It is important to take curves at a reasonable speed.
A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on
the news happen on curves. Here is 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 is no traction, inertia
will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If
you have ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you
will understand this.Traction in a curve depends on the condition of the tires
and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is
banked, and your speed. While in a curve, speed is the
one factor you can control.
Suppose you are 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. SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on
page 4-6.
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 will want to go slower.
If you need to reduce speed when approaching a curve,
do it before you enter the curve, while the front wheels
are straight ahead.
Try to adjust the speed so you can drive 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.
Adding non-dealer/non-retailer accessories can affect
your vehicle’s performance. SeeAccessories and
Modifications on page 5-3.
4-11

Racing or Other Competitive Driving
See your warranty book before using your vehicle for
racing or other competitive driving.
Notice:If you use your vehicle for racing or other
competitive driving, the engine may use more
oil than it would with normal use. Low oil levels can
damage the engine. For information on how to
add oil, seeEngine Oil on page 5-17.
Z06 Only: Be sure to check the oil level often during
racing or other competitive driving and keep the
level at or near the upper mark that shows the
proper operating range on the engine oil dipstick.
Except Z06: Be sure to check the oil level often
during racing or other competitive driving and keep
the level at or near 1 quart (1 L) above the upper
mark that shows the proper operating range on the
engine oil dipstick. After the competitive driving,
remove excess oil so that the level on the dipstick is
not above the upper mark that shows the proper
operating range.Vehicles with the Z51 performance package have
greaseable outer ends on both of the rear toe-links.
Under normal use, lubrication should be performed as
described in the maintenance schedule. SeeScheduled
Maintenance on page 6-4andRecommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 6-12. If you use the vehicle for
racing, lubrication should be performed at the end of
each racing day. See your dealer/retailer for lubrication
and make sure any needed repairs are made at
once. Proper procedures for performing these services
can be found in the service manual. SeeService
Publications Ordering Information on page 7-17.
4-15

Before Leaving on a Long Trip
To prepare your vehicle for a long trip, consider having
it serviced by your dealer/retailer before departing.
Things to check on your own include:
Windshield Washer Fluid:Reservoir full? Windows
clean — inside and outside?
Wiper Blades:In good shape?
Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids:All levels checked?
Lamps:Do they all work and are lenses clean?
Tires:Are treads good? Are tires inated to
recommended pressure?
Weather and Maps:Safe to travel? Have
up-to-date maps?
Highway Hypnosis
Always be alert and pay attention to your surroundings
while driving. If you become tired or sleepy, nd a
safe place to park your vehicle and rest.
Other driving tips include:
Keep the vehicle well ventilated.
Keep interior temperature cool.
Keep your eyes moving — scan the road ahead
and to the sides.
Check the rearview mirror and vehicle instruments
often.
Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or through mountains is different
than driving on at or rolling terrain. Tips for driving
in these conditions include:
Keep the vehicle serviced and in good shape.
Check all uid levels and brakes, tires, cooling
system, and transmission.
Going down steep or long hills, shift to a
lower gear.
4-18