power steering CHEVROLET EXPRESS PASSANGER 2007 1.G Owners Manual

To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
The cord for the engine coolant heater is
located on the driver’s side of the engine
compartment and is attached to the hose for
the power steering reservoir.
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 your
dealer/retailer in the area where you will be parking
your vehicle. The dealer/retailer can give you
the best advice for that particular area.
124

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.Notice:The chime signals related to safety
belts, parking brake, and other functions
of your vehicle operate through the
radio/entertainment system. If that equipment
is replaced or additional equipment is added
to your vehicle, the chimes may not work. Make
sure that replacement or additional equipment
is compatible with your vehicle before
installing it. SeeAccessories and Modifications
on page 290.
Your vehicle may have 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 121for more information.
188

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
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.
The traction you can get 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 you are 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.
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 your speed as you approach
a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while
the front wheels are straight ahead.
Try to adjust your 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 Modications on page 290.
239

Service........................................................ 290
Accessories and Modifications................... 290
California Proposition 65 Warning.............. 291
Doing Your Own Service Work.................. 291
Adding Equipment to the Outside of
Your Vehicle.......................................... 292
Fuel............................................................. 292
Gasoline Octane........................................ 293
Gasoline Specifications.............................. 293
California Fuel........................................... 293
Additives................................................... 294
Fuel E85 (85% Ethanol)............................ 295
Fuels in Foreign Countries........................ 296
Filling the Tank......................................... 297
Filling a Portable Fuel Container............... 299
Checking Things Under the Hood.............. 300
Hood Release........................................... 300
Engine Compartment Overview.................. 302
Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine).................... 303
Engine Oil Life System
(Gasoline Engine).................................. 306
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter............................ 308
Automatic Transmission Fluid.................... 309
Engine Coolant.......................................... 312Radiator Pressure Cap.............................. 315
Engine Overheating................................... 315
Cooling System......................................... 317
Engine Fan Noise..................................... 323
Power Steering Fluid................................. 323
Windshield Washer Fluid........................... 324
Brakes...................................................... 325
Battery...................................................... 329
Jump Starting............................................ 330
All-Wheel Drive........................................... 336
Rear Axle.................................................... 337
Front Axle................................................... 338
Noise Control System................................. 338
Tampering with Noise Control System
Prohibited.............................................. 338
Bulb Replacement....................................... 340
Halogen Bulbs........................................... 340
Headlamps................................................ 340
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker and
Parking Lamps....................................... 342
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) ... 342
Taillamps................................................... 343
Replacement Bulbs................................... 344
Section 5 Service and Appearance Care
287

A. Battery. SeeBattery on page 329.
B. Radiator Pressure Cap. SeeRadiator Pressure
Cap on page 315.
C. Coolant Recovery Tank. SeeCooling System
on page 317.
D. Automatic Transmission Fluid Dipstick. See
“Checking the Fluid Level” underAutomatic
Transmission Fluid on page 309.
E. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine
Oil” underEngine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on
page 303.
F. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil”
underEngine Oil (Gasoline Engine) on
page 303.
G. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. SeeEngine
Air Cleaner/Filter on page 308.
H. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. SeePower
Steering Fluid on page 323.
I. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake
Fluid” underBrakes on page 325.
J. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See
“Adding Washer Fluid” underWindshield
Washer Fluid on page 324.Engine Oil (Gasoline Engine)
If your vehicle has a diesel engine, see “Engine
Oil” in the DURAMAX®Diesel Engine Supplement.
Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine oil every time
you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading,
the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be
on level ground.
The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop.
SeeEngine Compartment Overview on page 302
for the location of the engine oil dipstick.
1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several
minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you
do not do this, the oil dipstick might not
show the actual level.
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper
towel or cloth, then push it back in all the
way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down,
and check the level.
303

Engine Fan Noise
Your vehicle has a clutched engine cooling fan.
When the clutch is engaged, the fan spins faster
to provide more air to cool the engine. In most
everyday driving conditions, the fan is spinning
slower and the clutch is not fully engaged.
This improves fuel economy and reduces fan
noise. Under heavy vehicle loading, trailer towing,
and/or high outside temperatures, the fan speed
increases as the clutch more fully engages,
so you may hear an increase in fan noise.
This is normal and should not be mistaken as the
transmission slipping or making extra shifts. It
is merely the cooling system functioning properly.
The fan will slow down when additional cooling
is not required and the clutch partially disengages.
You may also hear this fan noise when you
start the engine. It will go away as the fan
clutch partially disengages.
Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid
reservoir is located in
the engine compartment
on the driver’s side of
the vehicle. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview
on page 302for
reservoir 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.
323

How to Check Power Steering Fluid
To check the power steering fluid, do the following:
1. Turn the key off and let the engine
compartment cool down.
2. Wipe the cap and the top of the
reservoir clean.
3. Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick
with a clean rag.
4. Replace the cap and completely tighten it.
5. Then remove the cap again and look at
the fluid level on the dipstick.
The level should be at the COLD FILL mark.
If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring
the level up to the mark.
To prevent contamination of brake fluid, never
check or fill the power steering reservoir with
the brake master cylinder cover off.
What to Use
To determine what kind of fluid to use, see
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 415.
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.
Adding Washer Fluid
Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it.
Add washer fluid
until the tank is full. See
Engine Compartment
Overview on page 302
for reservoir location.
324

Tire Terminology and Denitions
Air Pressure:The amount of air inside the tire
pressing outward on each square inch of the
tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds
per square inch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa).
Accessory Weight:This means the combined
weight of optional accessories. Some examples of
optional accessories are, automatic transmission,
power steering, power brakes, power windows,
power seats, and air conditioning.
Aspect Ratio:The relationship of a tire’s height
to its width.
Belt:A rubber coated layer of cords that is
located between the plies and the tread. Cords
may be made from steel or other reinforcing
materials.
Bead:The tire bead contains steel wires wrapped
by steel cords that hold the tire onto the rim.
Bias Ply Tire:A pneumatic tire in which the plies
are laid at alternate angles less than 90 degrees
to the centerline of the tread.Cold Tire Pressure:The amount of air pressure in
a tire, measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or
kilopascals (kPa) before a tire has built up heat
from driving. SeeInation - Tire Pressure on
page 354.
Curb Weight:This means the weight of a motor
vehicle with standard and optional equipment
including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and
coolant, but without passengers and cargo.
DOT Markings:A code molded into the sidewall
of a tire signifying that the tire is in compliance
with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
motor vehicle safety standards. The DOT code
includes the Tire Identification Number (TIN),
an alphanumeric designator which can also identify
the tire manufacturer, production plant, brand,
and date of production.
GVWR:Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. See
Loading Your Vehicle on page 261.
GAWR FRT:Gross Axle Weight Rating for the
front axle. SeeLoading Your Vehicle on page 261.
351

Additional Required Services (cont’d)
Service and Miles (Kilometers)25,000
(40 000)50,000
(80 000)75,000
(120 000)100,000
(160 000)125,000
(200 000)150,000
(240 000)
Inspect engine accessory drive belt.
An Emission Control Service.
See footnote (n).•
Inspect evaporative control system.
An Emission Control Service.
See footnotes † and (k).•••
Maintenance Footnotes
(Gasoline Engine)
This maintenance section applies to vehicles with
a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel
engine, see the maintenance schedule section in
the DURAMAX
®Diesel Engine Supplement.
†The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or
the California Air Resources Board has determined
that the failure to perform this maintenance item
will not nullify the emission warranty or limit
recall liability prior to the completion of the
vehicle’s useful life. We, however, urge that all
recommended maintenance services be performed
at the indicated intervals and the maintenance
be recorded.#Lubricate the front suspension, kingpin bushings,
steering linkage, and rear driveline center splines.
(a)Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for
proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chang,
etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors
for surface condition. Inspect other brake
parts, including calipers, parking brake, etc.
(b)Visually inspect front and rear suspension and
steering system for damaged, loose, or missing
parts, signs of wear, or lack of lubrication. Inspect
power steering lines and hoses for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chang, etc.
409

Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants
This maintenance section applies to vehicles with
a gasoline engine. If your vehicle has a diesel
engine, see the maintenance schedule section in
the DURAMAX
®Diesel Engine Supplement.
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name,
part number, or specification can be obtained
from your dealer/retailer.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Engine OilEngine oil which meets GM
Standard GM6094M and displays
the American Petroleum Institute
Certified for Gasoline Engines
starburst symbol. To determine the
proper viscosity for your vehicle’s
engine, seeEngine Oil (Gasoline
Engine) on page 303.
Engine Coolant50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only DEX-COOL
®
Coolant. SeeEngine Coolant
on page 312.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Hydraulic Brake
SystemDelco
®Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.
Windshield
WasherGM Optikleen
®Washer Solvent.
Parking Brake
Cable GuidesChassis Lubricant
(GM Part No. U.S. 12377985, in
Canada 88901242) or lubricant
meeting requirements of NLGI #2,
Category LB or GC-LB.
Power Steering
SystemGM Power Steering Fluid
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021184,
in Canada 89021186).
Automatic
TransmissionDEXRON
®-VI Automatic
Transmission Fluid.
Key Lock
CylindersMulti-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241,
in Canada 10953474).
415