towing SATURN AURA 2009 Owner's Manual

Leaving After Parking on a Hill
1. Apply and hold the brake pedal while you:
start the engine,
shift into a gear, and
release the parking brake.
2. Let up on the brake pedal.
3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks.
4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the
chocks.
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
The vehicle needs service more often when pulling a
trailer. SeeScheduled Maintenance on page 6-4for more
information. Things that are especially important in traileroperation are automatic transmission uid, engine oil,
belts, cooling system and brake system. It is a good idea
to inspect these before and during the trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts
are tight.
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
The cooling system may temporarily overheat during
severe operating conditions. SeeEngine Overheating
on page 5-27.
Changing a Tire When Trailer Towing
If the vehicle gets a at tire while towing a trailer,
be sure to secure the trailer and disconnect it from
the vehicle before changing the tire.
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Keep a record with all parts receipts and list the
mileage and the date of any service work performed.
SeeMaintenance Record on page 6-15.
Adding Equipment to the Outside of
the Vehicle
Things added to the outside of the vehicle can affect the
airow around it. This can cause wind noise and can
affect fuel economy and windshield washer performance.
Check with your dealer/retailer before adding equipment
to the outside of the vehicle.
Fuel
Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of
the proper maintenance of this vehicle. To help keep the
engine clean and maintain optimum vehicle performance,
we recommend the use of gasoline advertised as
TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline.
The 8th digit of the Vehicle Identication Number (VIN)
shows the code letter or number that identies the
vehicle’s engine. The VIN is at the top left of the
instrument panel. SeeVehicle Identification
Number (VIN) on page 5-89.
Gasoline Octane
If the vehicle has the 2.4L L4 engine (VIN Code B), use
regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating
of 87 or higher. If the octane rating is less than 87, you
might notice an audible knocking noise when you drive,
commonly referred to as spark knock. If this occurs, use a
gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible.
If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and
you hear heavy knocking, the engine needs service.
If the vehicle has the 3.6L V6 engine (VIN Code 7),
use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane
rating of 87 or higher. For best performance or trailer
towing, you could choose to use middle grade 89 octane
unleaded gasoline. If the octane rating is less than 87,
you might notice an audible knocking noise when you
drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. If this occurs,
use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as
possible. If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or
higher and you hear heavy knocking, the engine needs
service.
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Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
This emergency operating mode allows your vehicle to
be driven to a safe place in an emergency situation.
If an overheated engine condition exists, an overheat
protection mode which alternates ring groups of
cylinders helps prevent engine damage. In this mode,
you will notice a signicant loss in power and engine
performance. The temperature gage will indicate
an overheat condition exists. Driving extended miles
(km) and/or towing a trailer in the overheat protection
mode should be avoided.
Notice:After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage,
allow the engine to cool before attempting any
repair. The engine oil will be severely degraded.
Repair the cause of coolant loss, change the oil
and reset the oil life system. SeeEngine Oil
on page 5-15.
Power Steering Fluid
SeeEngine Compartment
Overview on page 5-12for
reservoir location.
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
Power steering uid is used in all vehicles with
V6 engines. Vehicles with the 4-cylinder engine
have electric power steering and do not use power
steering uid.
It is not necessary to regularly check power steering
uid unless a leak is suspected in the system, or
an unusual noise is heard. A uid loss in this system
could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected
and repaired.
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(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 1-72.
(f)Lubricate all key lock cylinders, door hinges and
latches, hood hinges and latches, and trunk lid hinges
and latches. 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)Check 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 or cruise
control cables.
(h)Change automatic transmission fluid and filter if the
vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these
conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.
When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.(i)Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service can
be complex; you should have your dealer/retailer perform
this service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-23 for what to
use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure
cap, and filler neck. Pressure test the cooling system and
pressure cap.
(j)A fluid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and
the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.
(k)If driving regularly under dusty conditions, inspect
the filter at each engine oil change.
(l)Change automatic transmission fluid if the vehicle is
mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.
When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.
If the vehicle is not used under any of these conditions,
the fluid does not require changing.
(m)Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or
obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
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Services Provided
Emergency Fuel Delivery:Delivery of enough fuel
for the vehicle to get to the nearest service station.
Lock-Out Service:Service is provided to unlock the
vehicle if you are locked out. A remote unlock may
be available if you have OnStar
®. For security
reasons, the driver must present identication
before this service is given.
Emergency Tow From a Public Road or Highway:
Tow to the nearest Saturn retailer for warranty
service, or if the vehicle was in a crash and cannot
be driven. Assistance is also given when the vehicle
is stuck in sand, mud, or snow.
Flat Tire Change:Service is provided to change a
at tire with the spare tire. The spare tire, if equipped,
must be in good condition and properly inated.
It is the owner’s responsibility for the repair or
replacement of the tire if it is not covered by the
warranty.
Battery Jump Start:Service is provided to jump
start a dead battery.
Trip Interruption Benets and Assistance:If your
trip is interrupted due to a warranty failure, incidental
expenses may be reimbursed during the 5 years/
100,000 miles (160 000 km) Powertrain warranty
period. Items considered are hotel, meals, and
rental car.
Services Not Included in Roadside
Assistance
Impound towing caused by violation of any laws.
Legal nes.
Mounting, dismounting or changing of snow tires,
chains, or other traction devices.
Towing or services for vehicles driven on a
non-public road or highway.
Services Specic to Canadian
Purchased Vehicles
Fuel delivery:Reimbursement is approximately
$5 Canadian. Diesel fuel delivery may be restricted.
Propane and other fuels are not provided through
this service.
Lock-Out Service:Vehicle registration is required.
Trip Routing Service:Detailed maps of North
America are provided when requested either with
the most direct route or the most scenic route. There
is a limit of six requests per year. Additional travel
information is also available. Allow three weeks for
delivery.
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If a Crash Occurs
Here is what to do if you are involved in a crash.
Check to make sure that you are all right. If you
are uninjured, make sure that no one else in your
vehicle, or the other vehicle, is injured.
If there has been an injury, call emergency services
for help. Do not leave the scene of a crash until all
matters have been taken care of. Move your vehicle
only if its position puts you in danger or you are
instructed to move it by a police officer.
Give only the necessary and requested information
to police and other parties involved in the crash.
Do not discuss your personal condition, mental frame
of mind, or anything unrelated to the crash. This will
help guard against post-crash legal action.
If you need roadside assistance, call GM Roadside
Assistance. SeeRoadside Assistance Program on
page 7-7for more information.
If your vehicle cannot be driven, know where the
towing service will be taking it. Get a card from the
tow truck operator or write down the driver’s name,
the service’s name, and the phone number.
Remove any valuables from your vehicle before it is
towed away. Make sure this includes your insurance
information and registration if you keep these items
in your vehicle.
Gather the important information you will need from
the other driver. Things like name, address, phone
number, driver’s license number, vehicle license
plate, vehicle make, model and model year, Vehicle
Identication Number (VIN), insurance company and
policy number, and a general description of the
damage to the other vehicle.
If possible, call your insurance company from the
scene of the crash. They will walk you through the
information they will need. If they ask for a police
report, phone or go to the police department
headquarters the next day and you can get a copy of
the report for a nominal fee. In some states/provinces
with “no fault” insurance laws, a report may not be
necessary. This is especially true if there are no
injuries and both vehicles are driveable.
Choose a reputable collision repair facility for your
vehicle. Whether you select a dealer/retailer or a
private collision repair facility to x the damage,
make sure you are comfortable with them.
Remember, you will have to feel comfortable with
their work for a long time.
Once you have an estimate, read it carefully and
make sure you understand what work will be
performed on your vehicle. If you have a question,
ask for an explanation. Reputable shops welcome
this opportunity.
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R
Radio Frequency Identication (RFID), Privacy....7-18
Radio(s)........................................................3-57
Radios
Reception...................................................3-91
Setting the Clock.........................................3-56
Theft-Deterrent............................................3-89
Range Adjustment, Headlamps........................... 1-7
Reading Lamps..............................................3-16
Rear Door Security Locks................................2-12
Rear Seat Audio (RSA) System........................3-86
Rear Seat Entertainment System
Rear Seat Audio (RSA)................................3-86
Rearview Mirror, Automatic Dimming..................2-35
Rearview Mirrors.............................................2-35
Reclining Seatbacks.......................................... 1-4
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.................6-12
Recreational Vehicle Towing.............................4-26
Reimbursement Program, GM Mobility................. 7-6
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System.................. 2-4
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System, Operation . . . 2-5
Remote Vehicle Start........................................ 2-7Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the
Spare Tire..................................................5-71
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools...................5-69
Replacement Bulbs.........................................5-44
Replacement Parts, Maintenance......................6-13
Reporting Safety Defects to Saturn....................7-15
Reporting Safety Defects to the
Canadian Government..................................7-15
Reporting Safety Defects to the
U.S. Government.........................................7-14
Restraint System Check
Checking the Restraint Systems....................1-72
Replacing Restraint System Parts
After a Crash..........................................1-73
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)......................2-23
Ride Control Systems....................................... 4-6
Electronic Stability (ESC)................................ 4-6
Roadside Assistance Program............................ 7-7
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get it Out....................4-21
Roof
Sunroof......................................................2-49
Running the Vehicle While Parked.....................
2-34
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Towing
Recreational Vehicle.....................................4-26
Towing a Trailer..........................................4-30
Your Vehicle...............................................4-26
Traction
Control System (TCS).................................... 4-8
Traction Control System...................................3-34
Transmission
Fluid, Automatic...........................................5-22
Transmission Operation, Automatic....................2-26
Transportation, Courtesy..................................7-10
Trip Odometer................................................3-29
Trunk............................................................2-13
Turn and Lane-Change Signals.......................... 3-7
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever........................... 3-7
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading............................5-63
Universal Home Remote System.......................2-41
Operation...................................................2-42
V
Vehicle
Control........................................................ 4-3
Loading......................................................4-21
Running While Parked..................................2-34
Symbols......................................................... iii
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy..................7-16
Vehicle Data Recording,
Radio Frequency (RFID)...............................7-18
Vehicle Identication
Number (VIN).............................................5-89
Service Parts Identication Label...................5-89
Vehicle Personalization
DIC ...........................................................3-50
Vehicle, Remote Start....................................... 2-7
Ventilation Adjustment......................................3-26
Visors...........................................................2-17
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