towing SATURN L-SERIES 2004 Owner's Manual

When You Are Ready to Leave After
Parking on a Hill
1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down
while you:
start your 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
Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re
pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more
information. Things that are especially important in
trailer operation are automatic transaxle uid (do not
overll), engine oil, axle lubricant, drive belt, cooling
system and brake system. Each of these is covered in
this manual, and the Index will help you nd them
quickly. If you’re trailering, it’s a good idea to review this
information before you start your trip.
Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts
are tight.
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
Your cooling system may temporarily overheat during
severe operating conditions. SeeEngine Overheating on
page 5-26.
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Automatic Transaxle Fluid
It is not necessary to check the transaxle uid level. A
transaxle uid leak is the only reason for uid loss.
If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to retailer’s service
department and have it repaired as soon as possible.
You may also have your uid level checked by your
retailer or service center when you have your oil
changed.
Change both the uid and lter every 50,000 miles
(83 000 km) 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 you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, the uid and lter do not require changing.
Notice:Use of automatic transaxle uid labeled
other than DEXRON
®-III may damage your vehicle,
and the damages may not be covered by your
warranty. Always use DEXRON
®-III labeled automatic
transaxle uid.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is lled with
DEX-COOL®engine coolant. This coolant is designed
to remain in your vehicle for ve years or 100,000 miles
(166 000 km), whichever occurs rst, if you add only
DEX-COOL
®extended life coolant.
The following explains your cooling system and how to
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem
with engine overheating, seeEngine Overheating on
page 5-26.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL
®coolant will:
Give freezing protection down to−34°F (−37°C).
Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
Protect against rust and corrosion.
Help keep the proper engine temperature.
Let the warning lights and gages work as they
should.
Notice:Using coolant other than DEX-COOL
®may
cause premature engine, heater core or radiator
corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may
require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km)
or 24 months, whichever occurs rst. Any repairs
would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL
®(silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
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When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation
pattern shown here.
Don’t include the compact spare tire in your tire rotation.
If you are towing your Saturn vehicle with all four
wheels on the ground, the transaxle and tire
maintenance should be scheduled by mileage
accumulated through both driving and towing, not to
driven (odometer) mileage. Tire wear will reect actual
“rolling” mileage and may be greater than expected
for the current odometer mileage.
After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and
rear ination pressures as shown on the Tire-Loading
Information label. Make certain that all wheel bolts
are properly tightened. See “Wheel Bolt Torque” under
Capacities and Specications on page 5-98.
{CAUTION:
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to
which it is fastened, can make wheel bolts
become loose after a time. The wheel could
come off and cause an accident. When you
change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from
places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle.
In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a
paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a
scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to
get all the rust or dirt off. See “Changing a Flat
Tire” in the Index.
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(c)Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if
they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect
all pipes, ttings and clamps; replace with genuine
Saturn 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, door hinges and
latches, hood hinges and latches, glove box hinges,
sunroof (if equipped) 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)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 transaxle uid and lter 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 you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, the uid and lter do not require changing.
(i)Drain, ush and rell cooling system. See Engine
Coolant on page 5-23 for what to use. Inspect hoses.
Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and ller neck.
Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap.
(j)A uid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and
the uid level checked. Add uid if needed.
(k)Or every 12 months, whichever occurs rst. If you
drive regularly under dusty conditions, the lter may
require replacement more often.
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Customer Assistance Information
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY)
Users....................................................... 7-5
Customer Satisfaction Procedure..................... 7-2
GM Mobility Program for Persons with
Disabilities................................................ 7-5
Reporting Safety Defects to Saturn................7-10
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian
Government............................................7-10
Reporting Safety Defects to the United States
Government.............................................. 7-9
Roadside Assistance Program......................... 7-6
Service Publications Ordering Information........7-10
D
Daytime Running Lamps..................................3-13
Daytime Running Lamps Indicator Light.............3-39
Defensive Driving............................................. 4-2
Defogging and Defrosting.........................3-19, 3-23
Delayed Locking.............................................2-10
Dinghy Towing................................................4-33
Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature.................3-71
Doing Your Own Service Work........................... 5-4
Dolly Towing..................................................4-34
Dome Lamp...................................................3-15
Door
Delayed Locking..........................................2-10
Locks.......................................................... 2-9Door (cont.)
Power Door Locks.......................................2-10
Programmable Automatic Door Locks.............2-11
Rear Door Security Locks.............................2-11
Driver
Position, Safety Belt.....................................1-16
Seat Height Adjuster...................................... 1-3
Six-Way Power Seat...................................... 1-4
Driving
At Night.....................................................4-15
City...........................................................4-20
Defensive..................................................... 4-2
Drunken....................................................... 4-2
Freeway.....................................................4-21
Hill and Mountain Roads..............................4-24
In Rain and on Wet Roads...........................4-17
Winter........................................................4-26
Driving on Grades...........................................4-45
Driving on Snow or Ice....................................4-27
Driving Through Deep Standing Water...............4-19
Driving Through Flowing Water.........................4-19
Driving with a Trailer.......................................4-44
DVD
Rear Seat Entertainment System...................3-59
DVD Display Error Messages...........................3-67
DVD Distortion...............................................3-68
DVD Radio....................................................3-62
DVD Radio Error Messages.............................3-68
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E
Electrical System
Add-On Equipment......................................5-91
Fuses and Circuit Breakers...........................5-92
Power Windows and Other Power Options......5-92
Windshield Wiper Fuses...............................5-91
Emergency Trunk Release Handle (Sedan).........2-15
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance
Programs...................................................3-36
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter.........................................5-20
Battery.......................................................5-39
Change Engine Oil Light...............................3-38
Check and Service Engine Soon Light............3-34
Coolant......................................................5-23
Coolant Heater............................................2-22
Coolant Temperature Gage...........................3-33
Coolant Temperature Warning Light................3-32
Drive Belt Routing.......................................6-14
Engine Compartment Overview......................5-12
Exhaust.....................................................2-31
Oil .............................................................5-16
Overheating................................................5-26
Reduced Power Light...................................3-38
Starting......................................................2-21
Engine Compartment Fuse Block......................5-95
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing..................4-46
Engine Oil Additives........................................5-18
Entry Lighting.................................................3-15Event Data Recorders (EDR)............................. 7-8
Express-Down Window....................................2-17
Extender, Safety Belt.......................................1-35
Exterior Lamps...............................................3-13
F
Filter
Engine Air Cleaner......................................5-20
Finding a Station............................3-42, 3-45, 3-50
Finish Care....................................................5-86
Finish Damage...............................................5-88
Fixed Mast Antenna........................................3-73
Flash-to-Pass................................................... 3-7
Flat Tire........................................................5-69
Flat Tire, Changing.........................................5-70
Floor Console Fuse Blocks...............................5-92
Fluid
Automatic Transaxle.....................................5-23
Power Steering...........................................5-34
Windshield Washer......................................5-35
FM ...............................................................3-71
Fog Lamps....................................................3-14
Folding Rear Seat............................................ 1-8
Following Distance..........................................4-44
Fuel............................................................... 5-5
Additives...................................................... 5-7
California Fuel.............................................. 5-6
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Light (cont.)
Malfunction Indicator....................................3-34
Oil Pressure...............................................3-37
Reduced Engine Power................................3-38
Safety Belt Reminder...................................3-28
Security.....................................................3-38
Service Vehicle Soon...................................3-39
TCS Warning Light......................................3-32
Traction Control System (TCS) Warning..........3-32
Trunk Ajar..................................................3-39
Load Floor Storage Box...................................2-42
Loading Your Vehicle.......................................4-34
Lockout Protection..........................................2-12
Locks
Delayed Locking..........................................2-10
Door........................................................... 2-9
Leaving Your Vehicle....................................2-12
Lockout Protection.......................................2-12
Power Door................................................2-10
Programmable Automatic Door Locks.............2-11
Rear Door Security Locks.............................2-11
Loss of Control...............................................4-14
Low Coolant Warning Light..............................3-33
Low Fuel Warning Light...................................3-40
Low Washer Fluid Warning Light.......................3-39
Lumbar
Manual Controls............................................ 1-4M
Maintenance Schedule
Additional Required Services........................... 6-6
At Each Fuel Fill........................................... 6-9
At Least Once a Month.................................. 6-9
At Least Once a Year..................................6-10
Introduction.................................................. 6-2
Maintenance Footnotes.................................. 6-7
Maintenance Record....................................6-15
Maintenance Requirements............................. 6-2
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts.........6-13
Owner Checks and Services........................... 6-9
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.............6-12
Scheduled Maintenance................................. 6-4
Using Your................................................... 6-2
Your Vehicle and the Environment................... 6-2
Maintenance When Trailer Towing.....................4-46
Making Turns.................................................4-44
Malfunction Indicator Light................................3-34
Manual Lumbar Controls.................................... 1-4
Manual Operation...........................................3-22
Manual Seats................................................... 1-3
Manual Windows............................................2-17
Map Lamps....................................................3-15
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle............... 2-7
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Playing the Radio...........................3-42, 3-45, 3-50
Playing the Single CD Player...........................3-54
Playing the Six–Disc CD Player........................3-56
Power............................................................. 1-4
Accessory Outlets........................................3-16
Door Locks.................................................2-10
Electrical System.........................................5-92
Reduced Engine Light..................................3-38
Steering Fluid.............................................5-34
Windows....................................................2-17
Power Steering...............................................4-10
Programmable Automatic Door Locks.................2-11
Q
Questions and Answers About Safety Belts.........1-15
R
Radios..........................................................3-41
AM-FM Radio.............................................3-42
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player................3-72
Care of Your CD and DVD Player..................3-73
Care of Your CDs and DVDs........................3-73
Radio with Cassette and CD.........................3-50
Radio with CD............................................3-45
Setting the Time..........................................3-41
Theft-Deterrent............................................3-69
Understanding Reception..............................3-71Rear Door Security Locks................................2-11
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides......................1-33
Rear Seat Entertainment System.......................3-59
Rear Seat Outside Passenger
Positions (Wagon).......................................1-28
Rear Seat Passenger Positions (Sedan).............1-25
Rear Seat Passengers, Safety Belts..................1-25
Rear Window Defogger............................3-20, 3-23
Rear Window Wiper/Washer (Wagon).................. 3-9
Rearview Mirror, Automatic Dimming with
Compass and Temperature Display................2-36
Rearview Mirror, Automatic Dimming with OnStar
®,
Compass and Temperature Display..................2-34
Rearview Mirror with OnStar
®...........................2-33
Rearview Mirrors.............................................2-33
Reclining Seatbacks.......................................... 1-5
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants.................6-12
Recreational Vehicle Towing.............................4-32
Reduced Engine Power Light............................3-38
Remote Control..............................................3-64
Remote Keyless Entry System............................ 2-4
Remote Keyless Entry System, Operation............ 2-5
Removing the Cargo Cover..............................2-44
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the
Spare Tire..................................................5-74
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools (Sedan).......5-71
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools (Wagon)......5-72
Removing the Wheel.......................................5-74
Replacement Bulbs.........................................5-52
Replacing Brake System Parts..........................5-39
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Buying New Tires........................................5-64
Chains.......................................................5-68
Changing a Flat Tire....................................5-70
Compact Spare Tire.....................................5-81
If a Tire Goes Flat.......................................5-69
Ination - Tire Pressure................................5-61
Inspection and Rotation................................5-62
Uniform Tire Quality Grading.........................5-65
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance.................5-67
Wheel Replacement.....................................5-67
When It Is Time for New Tires......................5-64
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater....................2-22
Top Strap......................................................1-46
Top Strap Anchor Location...............................1-47
Torque Lock...................................................2-29
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires..................4-42
Towing
Recreational Vehicle.....................................4-32
Towing a Trailer..........................................4-40
Your Vehicle...............................................4-32
Traction
Control System (TCS).................................... 4-9
Control System Warning Light.......................3-32
Trailer Brakes.................................................4-43
Transaxle
Fluid, Automatic...........................................5-23
Transaxle Operation, Automatic.........................2-23
Trap-Resistant Trunk Kit...................................2-15
Trunk Ajar Light..............................................3-39
Trunk (Sedan)................................................2-13Trunk/Liftgate.................................................2-13
Turn and Lane-Change Signals.......................... 3-6
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever........................... 3-6
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer..................4-45
U
Understanding Radio Reception........................3-71
Uniform Tire Quality Grading............................5-65
Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a
Power Loss................................................3-70
Used Replacement Wheels..............................5-68
Using Cleaner on Fabric..................................5-83
Using the Recovery Hook................................4-31
V
Vehicle
Control........................................................ 4-5
Damage Warnings........................................... iv
Loading......................................................4-34
Service Soon Light......................................3-39
Symbols......................................................... iv
Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data
Recorders.................................................... 7-8
Vehicle Identication
Number (VIN).............................................5-90
Service Parts Identication Label...................5-91
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