traction control SATURN VUE 2006 Owners Manual

Instrument Panel Overview...............................3-4
Hazard Warning Flashers................................3-6
Horn .............................................................3-6
Tilt Wheel.....................................................3-6
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever.........................3-7
Turn and Lane-Change Signals........................3-7
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer..................3-8
Flash-to-Pass.................................................3-8
Windshield Wipers..........................................3-8
Windshield Washer.........................................3-9
Rear Window Wiper/Washer...........................3-10
Cruise Control..............................................3-10
Headlamps..................................................3-13
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).......................3-14
Automatic Headlamp System..........................3-15
Fog Lamps ..................................................3-15
Interior Lamps..............................................3-16
Instrument Panel Brightness...........................3-16
Dome Lamp .................................................3-16
Entry Lighting...............................................3-16
Map Lamps .................................................3-17
Footwell Lamps............................................3-17
Battery Run-Down Protection..........................3-17
Accessory Power Outlet(s).............................3-17
Cigarette Lighter...........................................3-18Climate Controls............................................3-19
Climate Control System.................................3-19
Outlet Adjustment.........................................3-22
Passenger Compartment Air Filter...................3-22
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators............3-24
Instrument Panel Cluster................................3-25
Speedometer and Odometer...........................3-26
Trip Odometer..............................................3-26
Tachometer.................................................3-26
Safety Belt Reminder Light.............................3-27
Passenger Safety Belt Reminder Light.............3-27
Airbag Readiness Light..................................3-28
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator...................3-29
Battery Warning Light....................................3-31
Up-Shift Light...............................................3-32
Brake System Warning Light..........................3-32
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light.............3-33
Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light...........................................3-34
Low Traction Light........................................3-35
Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light...........................................3-35
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage..................3-36
Low Coolant Warning Light............................3-36
Section 3 Instrument Panel
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The main components of the instrument panel are the following:
A. Air Outlets. SeeClimate Control System
on page 3-19.
B. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. SeeTurn
Signal/Multifunction Lever on page 3-7.
C. Cruise Control Buttons. SeeCruise Control
on page 3-10.
D. Horn. SeeHorn on page 3-6.
E. Instrument Panel Cluster. SeeInstrument Panel
Cluster on page 3-25.
F. Audio Steering Wheel Controls. SeeAudio Steering
Wheel Controls on page 3-79.
G. Windshield Wiper Lever. SeeWindshield Wipers
on page 3-8.
H. Instrument Panel Brightness Control. SeeInstrument
Panel Brightness on page 3-16.
I. Hazard Warning Flasher Button. SeeHazard
Warning Flashers on page 3-6.
J. Passenger Air Bag Status Indicator. SeePassenger
Airbag Status Indicator on page 3-29.K. Fog Lamp Button (If Equipped) or Traction Control
System Button (If Equipped). SeeFog Lamps
on page 3-15orTraction Control System (TCS)
on page 4-10.
L. Audio System. SeeAudio System(s) on page 3-44.
M. Hood Release. SeeHood Release on page 5-11.
N. Power Mirror Control. SeeOutside Power Mirrors
on page 2-31.
O. Power Window Switches. SeePower Windows
on page 2-13.
P. Automatic Transaxle Shift Lever. SeeAutomatic
Transaxle Operation on page 2-19.
Q. Heated Seats Buttons or Footwell Lamps
(If Equipped). SeeHeated Seats on page 1-4or
Footwell Lamps on page 3-17.
R. Climate Control. SeeClimate Control System
on page 3-19.
S. Glove Box. SeeGlove Box on page 2-34.
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Rear Window Wiper/Washer
The band on the wiper lever with the smaller arrow
operates the rear wiper/washer.
9(Off):Turn the band to this position to turn off
the rear wiper.
Z(Rear Wiper):Turn the band with the smaller
arrow to this position to turn on the rear wiper. To set
for a shorter or longer delay between wipes, turn
the other band with the larger arrow pointing to the
numbers (1, 2, or 3). Select 3 for the most frequent
movement; select 1 for the least frequent. The band
with the arrow pointing to the numbers (1, 2, or 3)
will affect both the front and rear wipers if they are
on at the same time.
Y(Wash):Turn and hold the band in this position
to spray washer uid on the rear window. The rear wiper
will also come on. Release the band when enough
uid has been sprayed on the window. The rear wiper
will run a few additional times after you release it.
The rear window washer uses the same uid bottle as
the windshield washer. However, the rear window
washer will run out of uid before the windshield washer.
If you can wash your windshield but not your rear
window, check the uid level.
Cruise Control
With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of
about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping
your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on
long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds
below 25 mph (40 km/h).
{CAUTION:
Cruise control can be dangerous where you
cannot drive safely at a steady speed. So, do
not use your cruise control on winding roads
or in heavy traffic.
Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery
roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire
traction can cause excessive wheel slip, and
you could lose control. Do not use cruise
control on slippery roads.
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If the light remains on after resetting the system or
comes on again while driving, your vehicle needs
service. If the ABS light is on, but the regular brake
system warning light is not on, you do not have anti-lock
brakes, but you still have regular brakes. Have your
vehicle serviced right away. If both brake lights are
on, you do not have anti-lock brakes, and there’s
a problem with your regular brakes as well. Have your
vehicle towed for service. SeeTowing Your Vehicle
on page 4-48.
The anti-lock brake system warning light should come
on briey when you turn the ignition key to RUN.
If the light does not come on then, have it xed so
it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light
Your vehicle may have a
traction control system
warning light. The traction
control system warning
light may come on for the
following reasons:
For vehicles equipped with the 2.2L L4 engine, turn
the system off by pressing the traction control button
located on the instrument panel above the audio
system. The warning light will come on and stay on.
To turn the system back on, press the button again.
The warning light should go off. SeeTraction Control
System (TCS) on page 4-10for more information.
For vehicles equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine,
the traction control system will be turned off when
the shift lever is in REVERSE (R) or LOW (L).
The traction control system warning light will be
displayed on the instrument panel. The traction
control system can be activated again by selecting
DRIVE (D) or INTERMEDIATE (I).
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If there is an engine-related and brake system
problem that is specically related to traction control,
the traction control system will turn off and the
warning light will come on.
If the traction control system warning light comes on
and stays on for an extended period of time when the
system is turned on, your vehicle needs service.
Low Traction Light
If your vehicle has the
Traction Control System
(TCS), this light will
come on when the system
is limiting wheel spin.
You may feel or hear the system working, but this
is normal. The roads may be slippery if this light
comes on. Adjust your driving accordingly.
The light will stay on for a few seconds after the
system stops limiting wheel spin. This light should
also come on for a few seconds when you start your
vehicle. If it does not, have your vehicle serviced.
Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light
The engine coolant
temperature warning light
will come on when the
engine has overheated.
If this happens you should pull over and seeEngine
Overheating on page 5-30for more information.
Notice:Driving with the engine coolant temperature
warning light on could cause your vehicle to
overheat. SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-30.
Your vehicle could be damaged, and it might not be
covered by your warranty. Never drive with the
engine coolant temperature warning light on.
This light will come on and ash when the temperature
of the automatic transmission uid is too high. If this
happens you should pull over, shift into PARK (P) and
let the engine idle until the light goes out.
This light will also come on briey when starting your
vehicle. If it does not, have your vehicle serviced.
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Low Fuel Warning Light
The light next to the fuel
gage will come on briey
when you are starting
the engine.
This light also comes on when the fuel tank is low
on fuel. When you add fuel the light should go off.
If it doesn’t, have your vehicle serviced.
Audio System(s)
Determine which radio your vehicle has and then read the
pages following to familiarize yourself with its features.
Driving without distraction is a necessity for a safer
driving experience. SeeDefensive Driving on page 4-3.
By taking a few moments to read this manual and
get familiar with your vehicle’s audio system, you can
use it with less effort, as well as take advantage of
its features. While your vehicle is parked, set up your
audio system by presetting your favorite radio stations,
setting the tone and adjusting the speakers. Then,
when driving conditions permit, you can tune to your
favorite stations using the presets and steering
wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
{CAUTION:
This system provides you with a far greater
access to audio stations and song listings.
Giving extended attention to entertainment
tasks while driving can cause a crash and you
or others can be injured or killed. Always keep
your eyes on the road and your mind on the
drive — avoid engaging in extended searching
while driving.
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Keeping your mind on the drive is important for safe
driving. For more information, seeDefensive Driving
on page 4-3.
Here are some ways in which you can help avoid
distraction while driving.
While your vehicle is parked:
Familiarize yourself with all of its controls.
Familiarize yourself with its operation.
Set up your audio system by presetting your
favorite radio stations, setting the tone, and
adjusting the speakers. Then, when driving
conditions permit, you can tune to your favorite
radio stations using the presets and steering
wheel controls if the vehicle has them.
Notice:Before adding any sound equipment to
your vehicle, such as an audio system, CD player,
CB radio, mobile telephone, or two-way radio, make
sure that it can be added by checking with your
retailer. Also, check federal rules covering mobile
radio and telephone units. If sound equipment
can be added, it is very important to do it properly.Added sound equipment may interfere with the
operation of your vehicle’s engine, radio, or other
systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’s
systems may interfere with the operation of sound
equipment that has been added.
Notice:The chime signals related to safety belts,
parking brake, and other functions of your vehicle
operate through the radio/entertainment system.
If that equipment is replaced or additional equipment
is added to your vehicle, the chimes may not
work. Make sure that replacement or additional
equipment is compatible with your vehicle before
installing it. SeeAccessories and Modifications
on page 5-3.
Notice:Getting suntan lotion, hand lotion, or
hand cleaner on the radio, will soften the paint,
and the paint will eventually begin to peel. Repairs
will not be covered by your vehicle’s warranty.
Try not to get suntan lotion, hand lotion, or hand
cleaner on the radio. If you do, wipe the lotion
or cleaner off immediately.
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Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle..........4-2
Driver Behavior..............................................4-2
Driving Environment........................................4-2
Vehicle Design...............................................4-3
Defensive Driving...........................................4-3
Drunken Driving.............................................4-4
Control of a Vehicle........................................4-6
Braking.........................................................4-7
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS).........................4-8
Braking in Emergencies.................................4-10
Traction Control System (TCS).......................4-10
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) System.......................4-11
Steering......................................................4-11
Off-Road Recovery.......................................4-14
Passing.......................................................4-14
Loss of Control.............................................4-15
Off-Road Driving...........................................4-17
Driving at Night............................................4-30Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads..................4-31
City Driving..................................................4-33
Freeway Driving...........................................4-34
Before Leaving on a Long Trip.......................4-35
Highway Hypnosis........................................4-35
Hill and Mountain Roads................................4-36
Winter Driving..............................................4-38
If Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand, Mud,
Ice, or Snow.............................................4-42
Rocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out.................4-42
Recovery Hook.............................................4-43
Loading Your Vehicle....................................4-44
Towing..........................................................4-48
Towing Your Vehicle.....................................4-48
Recreational Vehicle Towing...........................4-48
Towing a Trailer...........................................4-52
Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle
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There is something else about drinking and driving
that many people do not know. Medical research
shows that alcohol in a person’s system can make
crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain,
spinal cord, or heart. This means that when anyone
who has been drinking — driver or passenger — is
in a crash, that person’s chance of being killed or
permanently disabled is higher than if the person
had not been drinking.
{CAUTION:
Drinking and then driving is very dangerous.
Your reexes, perceptions, attentiveness,
and judgment can be affected by even a
small amount of alcohol. You can have a
serious — or even fatal — collision if you drive
after drinking. Please do not drink and drive
or ride with a driver who has been drinking.
Ride home in a cab; or if you are with a group,
designate a driver who will not drink.
Control of a Vehicle
You have three systems that make your vehicle go
where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the
steering, and the accelerator. All three systems have
to do their work at the places where the tires meet
the road.
Sometimes, as when you are driving on snow or ice,
it is easy to ask more of those control systems than
the tires and road can provide. That means you can
lose control of your vehicle. SeeTraction Control
System (TCS) on page 4-10.
Adding non-Saturn accessories can affect your
vehicle’s performance. SeeAccessories and
Modications on page 5-3.
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Braking in Emergencies
At some time, nearly every driver gets into a situation
that requires hard braking.
If you have ABS, you can steer and brake at the same
time. However, if you do not have ABS, your rst
reaction — to hit the brake pedal hard and hold it
down — may be the wrong thing to do. Your wheels can
stop rolling. Once they do, the vehicle cannot respond
to your steering. Momentum will carry it in whatever
direction it was headed when the wheels stopped rolling.
That could be off the road, into the very thing you
were trying to avoid, or into traffic.
If you do not have ABS, use a “squeeze” braking
technique. This will give you maximum braking while
maintaining steering control. You can do this by pushing
on the brake pedal with steadily increasing pressure.
In an emergency, you will probably want to squeeze
the brakes hard without locking the wheels. If you hear
or feel the wheels sliding, ease off the brake pedal.
This will help you retain steering control. If you do
have ABS, it is different. SeeAnti-Lock Brake System
(ABS) on page 4-8.
In many emergencies, steering can help you more
than even the very best braking.
Traction Control System (TCS)
Your vehicle may have a traction control system that
limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery
road conditions. The system operates only if it senses
that one or both of the front wheels are spinning or
beginning to lose traction. When this happens,
the system reduces engine power to limit wheel spin.
This light will come on
when your traction control
system is limiting wheel
spin. SeeLow Traction
Light on page 3-35. You
may feel or hear the system
working, but this is normal.
The traction control system automatically comes on
whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel
spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should
always leave the system on. But you can turn the
traction control system off if you ever need to. You
should turn the system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck
in sand, mud, ice or snow and rocking the vehicle is
required. SeeRocking Your Vehicle to Get It Out
on page 4-42andIf Your Vehicle is Stuck in Sand,
Mud, Ice, or Snow on page 4-42for more information.
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