air conditioning CHEVROLET IMPALA 2008 9.G Owners Manual

Remote Vehicle Start
Your vehicle may have a remote starting feature that
allows you to start the engine from outside the vehicle.
It may also start the vehicle’s heating or air conditioning
systems and rear window defogger. When the remote
start system is active and the vehicle has an automatic
climate control system, it will automatically regulate the
inside temperature. Normal operation of these systems
will return after the ignition key is turned to ON/RUN.
Laws in some communities may restrict the use of
remote starters. For example, some laws may require a
person using remote start to have the vehicle in view
when doing so. Check local regulations for any
requirements on remote starting of vehicles.
Do not use the remote start feature if your vehicle is low
on fuel. Your vehicle may run out of fuel.
Your Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter with the
remote start button provides an increased range of
operation. However, the range may be less while the
vehicle is running. As a result, you may need to
be closer to your vehicle to turn it off, than you were
to turn it on.
There are other conditions which can affect the
performance of the transmitter, seeRemote Keyless
Entry (RKE) System on page 2-4.
/(Remote Start):This button will be on the RKE
transmitter if you have remote start.
To start the vehicle using the remote start feature:
1. Aim the transmitter at the vehicle.
2. Press and release the transmitter’s lock button,
then immediately press and hold the transmitter’s
remote start button for about four seconds or
until the vehicle’s turn signal lamps ash.
The doors will lock.
When the vehicle starts, the parking lamps turn on
and remain on while the engine is running.
The remote start feature provides two separate starts
per ignition cycle, each with 10 minutes of engine
running time, or one start with a time extension. The rst
start must expire or be canceled to get two separate
10 minute starts.
If it is the rst remote start since the vehicle has been
driven, repeat the previous steps, while the engine is
still running, to extend the engine running time by
10 minutes from the time you repeat the steps for
remote starting. The remote start running time can be
extended one time and only after the rst remote start.
After entering the vehicle during a remote start,
insert and turn the key to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle.
2-8

6(Floor):This mode directs most of the air to the
oor outlets, with some of the air directed to the
windshield and side window outlets. In this mode,
the system automatically selects Outside Air.
The right knob can also be used to select defog or
defrost mode. For more information, see “Defogging
and Defrosting” later in this section.
By positioning the right knob between two modes,
a combination of those two modes is selected.
The air conditioning compressor will operate unless the
outside temperature is 40°F (4°C) or below.
9(Fan):Turn the left knob clockwise or
counterclockwise to increase or decrease the fan speed.
If the airow seems low when the fan is at the highest
setting, the passenger compartment air lter may
need to be replaced. For more information, see
Passenger Compartment Air Filter on page 3-26and
Scheduled Maintenance on page 6-4.
:(Outside Air):Press this button to turn on outside
air. When this mode is on, outside air will circulate
throughout your vehicle. When the button is pressed,
an indicator light comes on to show that it is on.
?(Recirculation):Press this button to turn on the
recirculation mode. When the button is pressed, an
indicator light comes on to show that it is on.
This mode keeps outside air from entering the vehicle.
It can be used to prevent outside air and odors from
entering the vehicle. Recirculation may also help heat or
cool the air inside the vehicle more quickly once the
temperature inside the vehicle is equal to or better than
the outside temperature. The recirculation mode
cannot be used with outside air, oor, defrost, or
defogging modes.
Temperature Control:Turn the thumbwheels up or
down to increase or decrease the temperature on
the driver’s side or the passenger side of the vehicle for
the dual zone system. Turn the center knob clockwise
or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the
temperature for the single zone system.
#(Air Conditioning):Press this button to turn the air
conditioning system on or off. When A/C is pressed,
an indicator light comes on to let you know that the air
conditioning is on. The indicator light ashes
three times and turns off when outside conditions affect
air conditioning operation. This is normal.
3-23

On hot days, open the windows to let hot inside air
escape; then close them. This helps to reduce the time
it takes for the vehicle to cool down. It also helps the
system to operate more efficiently.
For quick cool down on hot days, do the following:
1. Select the vent mode.
2. Select A/C.
3. Select the coolest temperature for both zones.
4. Select the highest fan speeds.
5. When the coolest temperature is selected in the
A/C mode, the system automatically goes into the
recirculation mode to improve cooling. Press the
Outside Air or Recirculation button to turn off
the automatic recirculation. This feature stays off
until the climate control system is powered on again
or the vehicle has been turned off and on again.
Using these settings together for long periods of time
may cause the air inside the vehicle to become too dry.
To prevent this from happening, after the air inside
the vehicle has cooled, turn the recirculation mode off.
The air conditioning system removes moisture from
the air, so you may sometimes notice a small amount of
water dripping underneath your vehicle while idling or
after turning off the engine. This is normal.Defogging and Defrosting
Fog on the inside of the windows is a result of high
humidity (moisture) condensing on the cool window
glass. This can be minimized if the climate control
system is used properly. There are two modes to clear
fog or frost from your windshield. Use the defog
mode to clear the windows of fog or moisture and warm
the passengers. Use the defrost mode to remove fog
or frost from the windshield more quickly.
Do not drive the vehicle until all the windows are clear.
Turn the right knob clockwise to select the defog or
defrost mode.
-(Defog):This mode directs air equally to the
windshield and the oor outlets. When defog is selected,
the system turns off recirculation and runs the air
conditioning compressor unless the outside temperature
is below 40°F (4°C).
0(Defrost):This mode directs most of the air to the
windshield with some air to the side window vents and
the oor vents. When defrost is selected, the system
automatically forces outside air into the vehicle. The air
conditioning compressor will run automatically in this
setting, unless the outside temperature is below
40°F (4°C).
3-24

CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
This message displays when the pressure in one or
more of the vehicle’s tires needs to be checked.
This message also displays LEFT FRONT, RIGHT
FRONT, LEFT REAR, or RIGHT REAR to indicate which
tire needs to be checked. You can receive more than
one tire pressure message at a time. To read the other
messages that may have been sent at the same
time, press the set/reset button. If a tire pressure
message appears on the DIC, stop as soon as you can.
Have the tire pressures checked and set to those
shown on the Tire Loading Information label. SeeTires
on page 5-54,Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-21,
andInflation - Tire Pressure on page 5-61. The DIC also
shows the tire pressure values. SeeDIC Operation
and Displays on page 3-44. If the tire pressure is low,
the low tire pressure warning light comes on. See
Tire Pressure Light on page 3-38.
DRIVER DOOR OPEN
This message displays when the driver door is not
closed properly. Make sure that the door is closed
completely.
ENGINE HOT A/C (Air Conditioning) OFF
This message displays when the engine coolant
becomes hotter than the normal operating temperature.
To avoid added strain on a hot engine, the air
conditioning compressor is automatically turned off.
When the coolant temperature returns to normal, the A/C
operation automatically resumes. You can continue to
drive your vehicle. If this message continues to appear,
have the system repaired by your dealer/retailer as soon
as possible to avoid compressor damage.
ENGINE OVERHEATED IDLE ENGINE
Notice:If you drive your vehicle while the engine
is overheating, severe engine damage may occur.
If an overheat warning appears on the instrument
panel cluster and/or DIC, stop the vehicle as soon as
possible. Do not increase the engine speed above
normal idling speed. SeeEngine Overheating
on page 5-29for more information.
This message displays when the engine coolant
temperature is too hot. Stop and allow the vehicle to
idle until it cools down.
3-53

SERVICE A/C (Air Conditioning)
SYSTEM
This message displays when the electronic sensors that
control the air conditioning and heating systems are
no longer working. Have the climate control system
serviced by your dealer/retailer if you notice a drop in
heating and air conditioning efficiency.
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 3-31for more information.
SERVICE BATTERY CHARGING
SYSTEM
This message displays when there is a problem with the
generator and battery charging systems. Driving with
this problem could drain the battery. Turn off all
unnecessary accessories. Stop and turn off the vehicle
as soon as it is safe to do so. Have the electrical
system checked by your dealer/retailer immediately.
SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM
This message displays when service is required on the
brake system. Have the brake system serviced by
your dealer/retailer as soon as possible. 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 3-34.
SERVICE POWER STEERING
This message displays when a problem is detected with
the power steering system. When this message is
displayed, you may notice that the effort required to
steer the vehicle increases or feels heavier, but you will
still be able to steer the vehicle. Have your vehicle
serviced by your dealer/retailer immediately.
SERVICE STABILITRAK
If your vehicle has Electronic Stability Control (ESC),
this message displays if there has been a problem
detected with ESC. The ESC/TCS light also appears on
the instrument panel cluster. SeeElectronic Stability
Control on page 4-7for 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.
3-56

(C) Aspect Ratio:A two-digit number that
indicates the tire height-to-width measurements.
For example, if the tire size aspect ratio is 60,
as shown in item C of the illustration, it would
mean that the tire’s sidewall is 60 percent as high
as it is wide.
(D) Construction Code
:A letter code is used to
indicate the type of ply construction in the tire.
The letter R means radial ply construction;
the letter D means diagonal or bias ply
construction; and the letter B means belted-bias
ply construction.
(E) Rim Diameter
:Diameter of the wheel in
inches.
(F) Service Description
:These characters
represent the load range and speed rating of the
tire. The load index represents the load carry
capacity a tire is certied to carry. The load index
can range from 1 to 279. The speed rating is
the maximum speed a tire is certied to carry a
load. Speed ratings range from A to Z.
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.
5-58

Fuses Usage
BATT 3 Battery 3
WSW Windshield Wiper
HTD MIR Heated Mirror
BATT 1 Battery 1
ABS MTR2 Antilock Brake System Motor 2
AIR PUMP Air Pump
BATT 2 Battery 2
INT LIGHTS Interior Lamps
INT LTS/
PNL DIMInterior Lamps, Instrument Panel
Dimmer
A/C CMPRSR Air Conditioning Compressor
AIR SOL AIR (Air Injection Reactor) Solenoid
AUX PWR Auxiliary Power
BCM Body Control Module
CHMSL/
BCK-UPCenter High-Mounted Stoplamp,
Back-up Lamps
DISPLAY Display
ETC/ECMElectronic Throttle Control,
Engine Control Module
INJ 1 Injector 1
EMISSIONS 1 Emissions 1
INJ 2 Injector 2
EMISSIONS 2 Emissions 2Fuses Usage
RT SPOT Right Spot
LT SPOT Left Spot
HDLP MDL Headlamp Module
DRL 2 Daytime Running Lamps 2
FAN 2 Cooling Fan 2
FUEL/PUMP Fuel Pump
WPR Wiper
LT LO BEAM Driver Side Low-Beam
RT LO BEAM Passenger Side Low-Beam
LT HI BEAM Driver Side High-Beam
RT HI BEAM Passenger Side High-Beam
Relay Usage
STRTR Starter
REAR DEFOG Rear Defogger
FAN 1 Cooling Fan 1
FAN 2 Cooling Fan 2
A/C CMPRSR Air Conditioning Compressor
FAN 3 Cooling Fan 3
FUEL/PUMP Fuel Pump
PWR/TRN Powertrain
5-102

Capacities and Specications
The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. SeeRecommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 6-12for more information.
ApplicationCapacities
English Metric
Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134aFor the air conditioning system refrigerant charge
amount, see the refrigerant caution label located
under the hood. See your dealer/retailer for more
information.
Automatic Transmission* 7.4 qt 7.0 L
*When draining/replacing converter, more uid may be needed.
Cooling System Including Reservoir
3.5L V6, 3.5L V6 Flexible Fuel, 3.9L V6 Flexible
Fuel Engines10.1 qt 9.6 L
5.3L V8 Engine 13.3 qt 12.6 L
Engine Oil with Filter
3.5L V6, 3.5L V6 Flexible Fuel and 3.9L V6 Flexible
Fuel Engines4.0 qt 3.8 L
5.3L V8 Engine 6.0 qt 5.7 L
5-103

Maintenance Footnotes
†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.
(a)Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, 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 or
signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines and hoses
for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
(c)Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if they
are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes,
fittings, and clamps; replace with genuine parts as
needed. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test
of the cooling system and pressure cap and cleaning the
outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser is
recommended at least once a year.(d)Inspect wiper blades for wear, cracking, or
contamination. Clean the windshield and wiper blades,
if contaminated. Replace wiper blades that are worn
or damaged. See Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
on page 5-52 and Windshield and Wiper Blades on
page 5-95 for more information.
(e)Make sure the safety belt reminder light and safety
belt assemblies are working properly. Look for any
other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you
see anything that might keep a safety belt system
from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or
frayed safety belts replaced. Also see Checking
the Restraint Systems on page 1-68.
(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders. Lubricate all hinges
and latches, including those for the body doors,
hood, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release
pawl, rear compartment, glove box door, console door,
and any folding seat hardware. More frequent
lubrication may be required when exposed to a corrosive
environment. Applying silicone grease on weatherstrips
with a clean cloth will make them last longer, seal
better, and not stick or squeak.
(g)If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, the
filter may require replacement more often.
6-7

A
Accessories and Modications............................ 5-3
Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle.......................................................1-67
Additives, Fuel................................................. 5-7
Add-On Electrical Equipment............................5-98
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine.................................5-22
Air Conditioning..............................................3-22
Airbag
Passenger Status Indicator...........................3-32
Readiness Light..........................................3-31
Airbag System................................................1-54
What Will You See After an Airbag Inates?........1-60
When Should an Airbag Inate?....................1-59
Where Are the Airbags?...............................1-57
Airbag Systems
Adding Equipment to Your
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle............................1-67
How Does an Airbag Restrain?......................1-60
Passenger Sensing System...........................1-62
Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle..........1-66
What Makes an Airbag Inate?......................1-60
Antenna, Backglass.........................................3-88
Antenna, XM™ Satellite Radio
Antenna System..........................................3-88
Antilock Brake System (ABS)............................. 4-4
Antilock Brake, System Warning Light................3-35Appearance Care
Aluminum Wheels........................................5-95
Care of Safety Belts....................................5-93
Chemical Paint Spotting...............................5-96
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses....................5-94
Fabric/Carpet..............................................5-91
Finish Care.................................................5-94
Finish Damage............................................5-96
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic
Surfaces.................................................5-92
Interior Cleaning..........................................5-90
Leather......................................................5-92
Sheet Metal Damage...................................5-96
Tires
..........................................................5-96
Underbody Maintenance...............................5-96
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials................5-97
Washing Your Vehicle...................................5-93
Weatherstrips..............................................5-93
Windshield and Wiper Blades........................5-95
Appointments, Scheduling Service....................... 7-9
Ashtray.........................................................3-21
Audio System.................................................3-66
Audio Steering Wheel Controls......................3-86
Backglass Antenna......................................3-88
Radio Reception..........................................3-87
Setting the Time..........................................3-67
Theft-Deterrent Feature................................3-85
XM™ Satellite Radio Antenna System............3-88
1