steering CHEVROLET SSR 2004 1.G Owner's Guide

Press inward on the tabs located on the outboard
sides of the remote positive (+) terminal cover
and pull outward to access the terminal.
The remote negative (−) terminal is located near the
power steering uid reservoir. It is marked
“GND (−).” SeeEngine Compartment Overview on
page 5-12for more information on location.
You will not see the battery of your vehicle under
the hood. It is located on the rear underside of
the vehicle. You will not need to access the battery
for jump starting. The remote positive (+) terminal
is for that purpose.
{CAUTION:
An electric fan can start up even when the
engine is not running and can injure you.
Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.
{CAUTION:
Using a match near a battery can cause battery
gas to explode. People have been hurt doing
this, and some have been blinded. Use a
ashlight if you need more light.
Be sure the battery has enough water. You do
not need to add water to the ACDelco
®battery
installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery
has ller caps, be sure the right amount of
uid is there. If it is low, add water to take care
of that rst. If you do not, explosive gas could
be present.
Battery uid contains acid that can burn you.
Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it
in your eyes or on your skin, ush the place
with water and get medical help immediately.
5-39

(C) Aspect Ratio:A two-digit number that indicates the
tire height-to-width measurements. For example, if
the tire size aspect ratio is 75, as shown in item C, of
the illustration, it would mean that the tire’s sidewall is
75 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:The service description
indicates the load range and speed rating of a tire.
The load index can range from 1 to 279. 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.
Cold Ination 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 5-58.
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 motor vehicle safety
standards. The DOT code includes the Tire Identication
Number (TIN), an alphanumeric designator which can
also identify the tire manufacturer, production plant,
brand and date of production.
5-55

If a Tire Goes Flat
Your vehicle has no spare tire, no tire changing
equipment and no place to store a tire.
It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving,
especially if you maintain your tires properly. See
Tires on page 5-51. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much
more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should
ever have a “blow out” here are a few tips about what to
expect and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the at tire will create a drag that
pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the
accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel rmly.
Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to
a stop well out of the traffic lane.
A rear blow out, particularly on a curve, acts much like
a skid and may require the same correction you’d
use in a skid. In any rear blow out, remove your foot
from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control
by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may
be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Gently
brake to a stop, well off the road if possible.If a tire goes at, avoid further tire and wheel damage by
driving slowly to a level place and stopping. Then do this:
1. Turn on the hazard warning ashers.
2. Set the parking brake rmly.
3. Put the shift lever in PARK (P).
4. Turn off the engine.
5. Inspect the at tire.
If the tire has been separated from the wheel or has
damaged sidewalls or large tears that allow rapid
air loss, call a tire repair facility. SeeRoadside
Assistance Program on page 7-6.
If the at tire is due to a slow leak caused by a nail or
other similar road hazard, the tire inator kit may
be used to repair the damaged tire temporarily. The kit
uses a liquid tire sealant to seal small punctures in
the tread area of the tire. The at tire is then inated to
at least 26 psi (179 kPa) and driven to evenly distribute
the tire sealant. The tire pressure is checked after
driving for a maximum of 10 minutes to see if the
slow leak has been stopped. If the tire pressure is
19 psi (131 kPa) or more, inate the tire up to the
standard operating pressure as shown on the tire and
loading information label found on center pillar near the
door latch or on the rear edge of the driver’s door.
SeeInation - Tire Pressure on page 5-58.
5-66

Scheduled Maintenance
Service MaintenanceIMaintenanceII
Change engine oil and lter. Reset oil life system. SeeEngine Oil on
page 5-13.An Emission Control Service.••
Visually check for any leaks or damage.See footnote (g).••
Inspect engine air cleaner lter. If necessary, replace lter. SeeEngine Air
Cleaner/Filter on page 5-19.An Emission Control Service. See footnote †.••
Check tire ination pressures and tire wear. SeeTires on page 5-51.••
Inspect brake system.See footnote (a).••
Check engine coolant and windshield washer uid levels and add uid as
needed.••
Perform any needed additional services. See “Additional Required Services” in
this section.••
Inspect suspension and steering components.See footnote (b).•
Inspect engine cooling system.See footnote (c).•
Inspect wiper blades.See footnote (d).•
Inspect restraint system components.See footnote (e).•
Lubricate body components.See footnote (f).•
Check transmission uid level and add uid as needed.•
6-5

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, 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 or
signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines and
hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
chang, etc.
(c)Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if
they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect
all pipes, ttings and clamps; replace with genuine
GM 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)Visually inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking.
Replace blade inserts that appear worn or damaged
or that streak or miss areas of the windshield.
(e)Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages
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 look for any opened or broken air bag
coverings, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air
bag system does not need regular maintenance.)
(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders, all body door and
fuel door hinges, latches and locks, including glove box
and console doors, hood assembly, secondary latch,
pivots, spring anchor, release pawl and any moving seat
hardware. Lubricate the hood safety lever pivot and
prop rod pivot. 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.
6-8

Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identied below by name, part
number or specication may be obtained from your
dealer.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Engine OilEngine oil which meets GM
Standard GM6094M and displays
the American Petroleum Institute
Certied for Gasoline Engines
starburst symbol. GM Goodwrench
oil meets all the requirements for
your vehicle. To determine the
proper viscosity for your vehicle’s
engine, seeEngine Oil on
page 5-13.
Engine Coolant50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only
DEX-COOL
®Coolant. SeeEngine
Coolant on page 5-23.
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Hydraulic Brake
SystemDelco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT-3 brake uid.
Windshield
Washer SolventGM 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
®-III Automatic
Transmission Fluid.
Key Lock
CylindersMulti-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube
(GM Part No. U.S. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
6-13

In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English)
or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Communication Centre, 163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Service Publications Ordering
Information
Service Manuals
Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair
information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension,
brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $120.00
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer
Case Unit Repair Manual
This manual provides information on unit repair service
procedures, adjustments, and specications for GM
transmissions, transaxles, and transfer cases.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $50.00
Service Bulletins
Service Bulletins give technical service information
needed to knowledgeably service General Motors cars
and trucks. Each bulletin contains instructions to
assist in the diagnosis and service of your vehicle.
In Canada, information pertaining to Product Service
Bulletins can be obtained by contacting your General
Motors dealer or by calling 1-800-GM-DRIVE
(1-800-463-7483).
Owner’s Information
Owner publications are written specically for owners
and intended to provide basic operational information
about the vehicle. The owner’s manual will include
the Maintenance Schedule for all models.
In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner’s Manual, and
Warranty Booklet.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00
Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only.
RETAIL SELL PRICE: $25.00
7-13

A
Accessing the Tire Inator Kit...........................5-68
Accessory Power Outlets.................................3-17
Adding Washer Fluid.......................................5-32
Additional Program Information.........................7-10
Additives, Fuel................................................. 5-6
Add-On Electrical Equipment............................5-83
Add-On Equipment..........................................4-38
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)......3-64, 3-74
Air Bag
Off Light.....................................................3-28
Readiness Light..........................................3-26
Air Bag Systems.............................................1-42
Air Bag Off Switch.......................................1-51
How Does an Air Bag Restrain?....................1-48
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle.........1-55
What Makes an Air Bag Inate?....................1-48
What Will You See After an Air Bag Inates?......1-49
When Should an Air Bag Inate?...................1-47
Where Are the Air Bags?..............................1-45
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine.................................5-19
Air Compressor..............................................5-69
Airbag Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM)....7-10
AM ...............................................................3-87
Antenna, Integrated Windshield.........................3-87
Anti-lock Brake System..................................... 4-7
Anti-Lock Brake, System Warning Light..............3-31Appearance Care............................................5-74
Care of Safety Belts....................................5-77
Chemical Paint Spotting...............................5-80
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle................5-74
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle..............5-77
Finish Damage............................................5-80
Sheet Metal Damage...................................5-80
Underbody Maintenance...............................5-80
Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials................5-81
Weatherstrips..............................................5-77
Ashtrays........................................................3-18
Audio System(s).............................................3-61
Audio Steering Wheel Controls......................3-86
Care of Your CD Player...............................3-87
Care of Your CDs........................................3-87
Integrated Windshield Antenna.......................3-87
Radio with CD............................................3-62
Radio with Six-Disc CD................................3-71
Setting the Time..........................................3-61
Theft-Deterrent Feature................................3-85
Understanding Radio Reception.....................3-87
Automatic Headlamp System............................3-13
Automatic Transmission
Fluid..........................................................5-20
Operation...................................................2-16
Auxiliary Gage Package...................................3-41
1

Finish Care....................................................5-78
Finish Damage...............................................5-80
Flash-to-Pass................................................... 3-7
Flat Tire........................................................5-66
Flip Hall Switch Fault......................................3-50
Floor Tracks...................................................2-35
Fluid
Automatic Transmission................................5-20
Power Steering...........................................5-31
Windshield Washer......................................5-31
FM ...............................................................3-87
Fog Lamps....................................................3-14
Following Distance..........................................4-48
Front Map Lamps...........................................3-16
Front Turn and Parking Lamps.........................5-45
Fuel............................................................... 5-4
Additives...................................................... 5-6
California Fuel.............................................. 5-5
Filling a Portable Fuel Container..................... 5-9
Filling Your Tank........................................... 5-7
Fuels in Foreign Countries.............................. 5-6
Gage.........................................................3-40
Gasoline Octane........................................... 5-5
Gasoline Specications.................................. 5-5
Fuel Information..............................................3-46Fuel Level Low...............................................3-51
Fuses
Fuses and Circuit Breakers...........................5-84
Windshield Wiper.........................................5-83
G
Gage
Check Gages Warning Light..........................3-39
Engine Coolant Temperature.........................3-32
Fuel..........................................................3-40
Oil Pressure...............................................3-36
Speedometer..............................................3-25
Tachometer.................................................3-25
Gage, Auxiliary Package..................................3-41
Garage Door Opener.......................................2-26
Gasoline
Octane........................................................ 5-5
Specications............................................... 5-5
Gate Operator and Canadian Programming........2-29
Glove Box.....................................................2-30
GM Mobility Program for Persons with
Disabilities.................................................... 7-6
6

H
Hazard Warning Flashers................................... 3-3
Hdr (Header) Latch Switch Fault.......................3-51
Headlamp
Aiming.......................................................5-43
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer.................... 3-6
Headlamps....................................................5-44
Bulb Replacement.......................................5-43
Electrical System.........................................5-83
Front Turn Signal, Sidemarker
and Parking Lamps..................................5-45
Halogen Bulbs............................................5-44
Heated Seats................................................... 1-3
Highbeam On Light.........................................3-39
Highway Hypnosis...........................................4-24
Hill and Mountain Roads..................................4-24
Hitches..........................................................4-43
HomeLink
®Transmitter....................................2-26
HomeLink®Transmitter, Programming................2-27
Hood
Checking Things Under................................5-10
Release.....................................................5-10
Horn............................................................... 3-4
How to Add Automatic Transmission Fluid..........5-23
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank......5-30
How to Check................................................5-59
How to Check Lubricant...................................5-43How to Check Power Steering Fluid..................5-31
How to Check the Automatic Transmission Fluid.....5-21
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter.......5-19
How to Use This Manual...................................... ii
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly...................1-12
Hydroplaning..................................................4-19
I
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine..........5-27
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine...............5-26
If the Light is Flashing.....................................3-34
If the Light Is On Steady.................................3-34
If You Are Caught in a Blizzard.........................4-29
If You Are Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow.......4-31
If You Decide To Pull A Trailer..........................4-40
Ignition Positions.............................................2-14
Infants and Young Children, Restraints...............1-24
Ination - Tire Pressure...................................5-58
Inator Kit, Tire...............................................5-67
Instrument Panel
Cluster.......................................................3-24
Overview..................................................... 3-2
Storage Area..............................................2-30
Instrument Panel Brightness.............................3-15
Integrated Windshield Antenna..........................3-87
Interior Lamps................................................3-15
7