power steering Oldsmobile Silhouette 1999 Owner's Manuals

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LOCK (B): This is the only position in which you can
remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition
and transaxle.
OFF (C): This position unlocks the steering wheel,
ignition and transaxle, but does not send electrical
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 off and
the key is in the ignition.
RUN (D): This is an on position to which the switch
returns after you start your engine and release the
switch. The switch stays in RUN when the engine is
running. But even when the engine is not running, you
can use RUN to operate your electrical power
accessories, and to display some instrument panel
warning lights.START (E): This position starts the engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will
return to RUN for normal driving.
Note that even if the engine is not running,
ACCESSORY and RUN are positions that allow you to
operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio.
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. But 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.

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The main components of the instrument panel are:
A. Side Vents
B. Front Vents
C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
D. Hazard Warning Flashers Switch
E. Instrument Panel Cluster
F. Center Vents
G. Audio System
H. Side Vents
I. Lamp Switch
J. Hood Release
K. Steering Wheel Touch Controls (Option)
L. HornM. Ignition Switch
N. Steering Wheel Touch Controls (Option)
O. Climate Controls
P. Rear Fan Controls (Option)
Q. Accessory Power Outlet
R. Storage Bin
S. Remote CD Player (Option)
T. Instrument Panel Switchbank
U. Ashtray and Cigarette Lighter
V. Glove Box
W. Front Vents
X. Instrument Panel Fuse Block

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3-24
To unlock a secured radio, see ªUnlocking the
Theft
-Deterrent Feature After a Power Lossº earlier in
this section.
Audio Steering Wheel Controls
(If Equipped)
If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain
radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel.
VOL: Press the up or down arrow to increase or
decrease volume.PLAY: Press this button to play a loaded cassette tape or
compact disc when the radio is playing.
MUTE: Press this button to silence the system.
Press it again to turn on the sound. This button may be
used when listening to the radio, a cassette tape or a
compact disc.
SEEK: Press the up arrow to tune to a higher radio
station and the down arrow to tune to a lower radio
station. The sound will mute while seeking. When
playing a cassette tape or compact disc, press SEEK to
hear the next selection.
AM
-FM: Press this button to choose AM or FM.
PRESET: Press this button to play a station you have
programmed on the radio preset buttons.

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4-11 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.
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.
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-
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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
-7 Filling a Portable Fuel Container
6
-8 Checking Things Under the Hood
6
-11 Engine Oil
6
-15 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
6
-16 Passenger Compartment Air Filter
Replacement
6
-18 Automatic Transaxle Fluid
6
-21 Radiator Pressure Cap
6
-21 Thermostat
6
-21 Engine Coolant
6
-25 Power Steering Fluid
6
-26 Windshield Washer Fluid
6
-27 Brakes
6
-30 Battery6
-31 Bulb Replacement
6
-38 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
6
-39 Tires
6
-47 Appearance Care
6
-47 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
6
-51 Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
6
-53 Underbody Maintenance
6
-53 Chemical Paint Spotting
6
-54 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
6
-55 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
6
-56 Electrical System
6
-63 Replacement Bulbs
6
-63 Capacities and Specifications
6
-64 Air Conditioning Refrigerants
6
-65 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

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6-10
When you lift the hood, you'll see these items:
A. Underhood Fuse and
Relay Center
B. Remote Positive (+) Terminal
C. Windshield Washer
Fluid ReservoirD. Radiator Pressure Cap
E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir
F. Engine Oil Fill Location
G. Engine Oil DipstickH. Transaxle Fluid Dipstick
I. Brake Master Cylinder
J. Air Cleaner
K. Engine Coolant Reservoir

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Power Steering Fluid
The power steering fluid reservoir is located to the right
of the windshield washer fluid reservoir, at the back of
the engine compartment.
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.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
When the engine compartment is cool, 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.
When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be
at the ªHº mark. When it's cold, the level should be at
the ªCº mark. If the fluid is at the ADD mark, you
should add fluid.
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.

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6-58
Circuit
BreakersUsage
HEADLAMP DRL Control Module, Headlamp and
Instrument Panel Dimmer Switch
PWR WDO Front Power Windows
PWR SEAT/PSD 6
-Way Power Seat(s) and Rear
Side Door Actuator Motor
FRT HVAC/HI
BLWRBlower Motor Hi Speed
Relay ModuleFuses Usage
SWC
BACKLIGHTSteering Wheel Radio Control
Switches (Illumination)
ELEC PRNDL Instrument Cluster to
PRNDL Indicators
PWR MIRROR Power Remote Control
Mirror Switch
CRUISE Cruise Control Module, Switch
and Release Switch
PWR QTR
VENTInterior Lamps and Multifunction
Switch (Power Vent Switch)
FRT
WPR/WSHRWindshield Wiper/Washer Motor
and Switch
PASS KEY PASS
-Key III System
PWR LOCK Body Control Module (BCM)
HTD MIRROR Heated Mirrors
RH T/LP Not Used
RR FOG LP Not Used
CIGAR/DLC Cigarette Lighter and Data Link
Connector (DLC)
T/SIG Turn Signal Switch
RR HVAC Rear Blower Motor, Rear
Heater
-A/C Control, Temperature
Door Actuator (Rear)

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7-34
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.
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.
Brake System Inspection
Inspect the complete system. 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. Also inspect drum brake linings
for wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including
drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.
Check parking brake adjustment. You may need to have
your brakes inspected more often if your driving habits
or conditions result in frequent braking.

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7-35
Part D: Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants
NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name,
part number or specification may be obtained from
your dealer.
USAGE
FLUID/LUBRICANT
Engine OilEngine Oil with the American
Petroleum Institute Certified For
Gasoline Engines ªStarburstº
symbol of the proper viscosity. To
determine the preferred viscosity
for your vehicle's engine, see
ªEngine Oilº in the Index.
Engine Coolant50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only GM
Goodwrench

DEX-COOL
or
Havoline
DEX-COOL

Coolant. See ªEngine Coolantº in
the Index.
USAGEFLUID/LUBRICANT
Hydraulic Brake
SystemDelco Supreme 11
Brake Fluid
(GM Part No. 12377967 or
equivalent DOT
-3 Brake Fluid).
Windshield
Washer SolventGM Optikleen
Washer Solvent
(GM Part No. 1051515) or
equivalent.
Parking Brake
Cable GuidesChassis Lubricant (GM Part
No. 12377985 or equivalent) or
lubricant meeting requirements of
NLGI # 2, Category LB or
GC
-LB.
Power Steering
SystemGM Power Steering Fluid (GM
Part No. 1052884
- 1 pint,
1050017
- 1 quart, or equivalent).
Automatic
TransaxleDEXRON
-III Automatic
Transmission Fluid.
Key Lock
CylindersMulti-Purpose Lubricant,
Superlube
(GM Part
No. 12346241 or equivalent).