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Oldsmobile 2004 Alero User Manual

Oldsmobile 2004 Alero
360 pages
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Seats and Restraint Systems
........................... 1-1
Front Seats
............................................... 1-2
Rear Seats
............................................... 1-8
Safety Belts
.............................................. 1-9
Child Restraints
....................................... 1-32
Supplemental Restraint
System (SRS)
...................................... 1-54
Restraint System Check
............................ 1-60
Features and Controls
..................................... 2-1
Keys
........................................................ 2-2
Doors and Locks
....................................... 2-7
Windows
................................................. 2-14
Theft-Deterrent Systems
............................ 2-16
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
........... 2-16
Mirrors
.................................................... 2-33
Storage Areas
......................................... 2-34
Sunroof
.................................................. 2-35
Instrument Panel
............................................. 3-1
Instrument Panel Overview
.......................... 3-2
Climate Controls
...................................... 3-19
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
......... 3-23
Audio System(s)
....................................... 3-39
Driving Your Vehicle
....................................... 4-1
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle
..... 4-2
Towing
................................................... 4-31
Service and Appearance Care
.......................... 5-1
Service
..................................................... 5-3
Fuel
......................................................... 5-4
Checking Things Under the Hood
................. 5-9
Headlamp Aiming
..................................... 5-48
Bulb Replacement
.................................... 5-50
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
......... 5-53
Tires
...................................................... 5-54
Appearance Care
..................................... 5-81
Vehicle Identification
................................. 5-89
Electrical System
...................................... 5-89
Capacities and Specifications
..................... 5-95
Maintenance Schedule
..................................... 6-1
Maintenance Schedule
................................ 6-2
Customer Assistance Information
.................... 7-1
Customer Assistance Information
.................. 7-2
Reporting Safety Defects
........................... 7-11
Index
................................................................ 1
2004 Oldsmobile Alero Owner Manual M

Table of Contents

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Oldsmobile 2004 Alero Specifications

General IconGeneral
BrandOldsmobile
Model2004 Alero
CategoryAutomobile
LanguageEnglish

Summary

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Front Seats

Details manual seat adjustments, including sliding the seat forward/rearward and adjusting height.

Manual Seats

Explains how to adjust manual seats using the release bar to unlock and slide the seat.

Six-Way Power Driver Seat

Describes how to operate the power seat control for forward, backward, and cushion adjustments.

Rear Seats

Provides information on rear seat operation, including folding the seatback and safety belt usage.

Safety Belts

Comprehensive guide to safety belt usage, importance, and proper wearing techniques for all occupants.

Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone

Emphasizes the importance of wearing safety belts properly for everyone in the vehicle.

Why Safety Belts Work

Explains the physics behind how safety belts work to protect occupants in a crash.

Questions and Answers About Safety Belts

Addresses common questions about safety belt use, including entrapment and air bag interaction.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Provides guidance on proper safety belt usage for adults, emphasizing correct positioning and awareness of child restraints.

Driver Position

Describes the driver's restraint system and how to wear the lap-shoulder belt correctly.

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster

Explains how to adjust the shoulder belt height for proper positioning and comfort.

Right Front Passenger Position

Explains how to wear the right front passenger's safety belt properly, similar to the driver's belt.

Rear Seat Passengers

Emphasizes the importance of rear seat passengers buckling up for safety and to prevent injury to others.

Lap-Shoulder Belt

Details how to properly wear a lap-shoulder belt for rear seat positions next to the windows.

Center Rear Passenger Position

Describes the lap belt for the center rear seating position and how to adjust its length.

Lap Belt

Explains the operation of the center rear lap belt, including length adjustment and buckling.

Child Restraints

Comprehensive guide to child restraint systems, including older children and infants/young children.

Older Children

Advises that older children should wear vehicle safety belts, preferably in rear seat positions.

Infants and Young Children

Emphasizes the need for appropriate restraints for infants and young children due to their developing bodies.

Child Restraint Systems

Illustrates and describes different types of infant restraints: car beds and rear-facing infant seats.

Where to Put the Restraint

Recommends securing child restraints in rear seats due to safety, especially for rear-facing restraints.

Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System)

Describes the LATCH system, its anchors, and how restraints attach to secure children.

Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System

Provides step-by-step instructions for installing a child restraint using the LATCH system.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

Explains how to secure a child restraint using the LATCH system or vehicle safety belts.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position

Details how to secure a child restraint in the center rear seat using the LATCH system or lap belt.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position

Warns against placing rear-facing restraints in the front seat due to airbag risk and advises moving the seat back.

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)

Explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system, its components, and safety precautions.

Restraint System Check

Instructions for checking safety belt systems, buckles, retractors, anchorages for proper function and damage.

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash

Advises on inspecting and replacing restraint system parts after a crash due to potential damage and serious injury risk.

Section 2 Features and Controls

Doors and Locks

Discusses door lock functions, security features, and the importance of locking doors for safety.

Door Locks

Discusses the dangers of unlocked doors and the importance of locking them for passenger and vehicle security.

Starting and Operating Your Vehicle

Covers essential procedures for starting and operating the vehicle, including new vehicle break-in.

Ignition Positions

Describes the four ignition switch positions (OFF, ACCESSORY, ON, START) and their functions.

Starting Your Engine

Covers general procedures for starting the engine, including automatic and manual transaxle variations.

Automatic Transaxle

Details starting procedures for automatic transaxle vehicles, requiring the shift lever in PARK or NEUTRAL.

Automatic Transaxle Operation

Explains the operation of the automatic transaxle, detailing the shift lever positions and their functions.

Manual Transaxle Operation

Explains the shift pattern, clutch operation, and procedures for shifting through gears and using reverse.

Shifting Into Park (P)

Provides steps for shifting into PARK (P) for automatic transaxles, including brake and ignition switch operation.

Shifting Out of Park (P)

Details the procedure for shifting out of PARK (P), including shift lock control system and brake application.

Section 3 Instrument Panel

Instrument Panel Overview

Provides a diagram identifying the main components of the instrument panel with labels A through T.

Turn and Lane-Change Signals

Explains the two positions for signaling turns or lane changes and how the lever returns automatically.

Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer

Describes how to change headlamps between high and low beams using the turn signal/multifunction lever.

Windshield Wiper Lever

Details how to operate the windshield wipers and washers, including intermittent and speed settings.

Cruise Control

Describes the cruise control feature, its buttons, and conditions under which it turns off.

Setting Cruise Control

Provides step-by-step instructions for setting cruise control, including pressing ON/OFF and SET buttons.

Ending Cruise Control

Lists five ways to turn off cruise control: brake, CANCEL button, RES ACCL/CST SET, ON/OFF button, clutch pedal.

Automatic Headlamp System

Describes the automatic headlamp system that turns headlamps on/off based on ambient light conditions.

Climate Controls

Covers the climate control system for managing heating, cooling, and ventilation within the vehicle.

Climate Control System

Explains how to control heating, cooling, and ventilation for the vehicle's interior.

Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators

Explains the purpose of warning lights and gages in signaling vehicle problems and the importance of paying attention.

Instrument Panel Cluster

Provides an overview of the instrument panel cluster, explaining its function in displaying vehicle status.

Speedometer and Odometer

Explains the speedometer for speed display (mph/km/h) and the odometer for distance driven (miles/kilometers).

Tachometer

Explains the tachometer's function in showing engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm) and cautions about the shaded area.

Safety Belt Reminder Light

Describes the safety belt reminder light and chime that alerts occupants to fasten their safety belts.

Air Bag Readiness Light

Explains the air bag readiness light, its symbol, and what it indicates about the air bag system's electrical status.

Charging System Light

Details the charging system light, its function when ignition is on, and what it signifies when engine is running.

Brake System Warning Light

Explains the brake system warning light, its function when ignition is on, with parking brake, and for brake problems.

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

Describes the ABS warning light, its normal operation during startup, and what it means if it stays on.

Enhanced Traction System Warning Light

Explains the ETS warning light, its reasons for coming on, and implications for wheel spin limitation.

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

Explains the engine coolant temperature gauge, the red area, and what it signifies when the engine is too hot.

Low Coolant Warning Light

Describes the low coolant warning light and chime, indicating low coolant level or potential overheating.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp

Explains the Malfunction Indicator Lamp ('Service Engine Soon'/'Check Engine') and its role in monitoring emission systems.

Oil Pressure Light

Explains the oil pressure light, indicating low oil pressure, and the immediate need for service.

Change Engine Oil Light

Describes the CHANGE OIL light, its function as a bulb check, and when it indicates an oil change is needed.

Low Washer Fluid Warning Light

Describes the low washer fluid warning light and chime, indicating a low reservoir level.

Service Vehicle Soon Light

Explains the Service Vehicle Soon light, which comes on briefly at ignition ON or if a problem is detected.

Fuel Gage

Explains how the fuel gauge indicates fuel level, when the indicator nears empty, and common owner questions.

Audio System(s)

Guides the user through understanding and operating the vehicle's audio system, including radio and CD features.

Radio with CD (Base Level)

Details how to play the radio, adjust volume, and use the RCL knob for station frequency and time display.

Radio with CD (Up Level)

Describes the Up Level radio with CD, including Radio Data System (RDS) features and XM™ Satellite Radio.

Playing a CD

Details how to insert and play a CD, activate EQ settings, and the behavior when the ignition or radio is off.

Radio with Cassette and CD

Describes the radio with cassette and CD player, including RDS features and XM™ Satellite Radio Service.

Playing the Radio

Explains how to play the radio, adjust volume, use SCV, and recall station frequency or time.

Finding a Station

Details how to find radio stations using BAND, TUNE knob, and SEEK/SCAN arrows.

Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle

Defensive Driving

Emphasizes driving defensively by expecting the unexpected and concentrating on the driving task.

Drunken Driving

Highlights the dangers of drinking and driving, its impact on judgment, coordination, vision, and attentiveness.

Control of a Vehicle

Explains the three systems (brakes, steering, accelerator) that control vehicle movement and the importance of tire traction.

Braking

Details braking action, perception time, reaction time, and the importance of avoiding heavy braking.

Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)

Explains that ABS is an advanced electronic braking system to help prevent braking skids.

Enhanced Traction System (ETS)

Describes the ETS that limits wheel spin in slippery conditions by reducing engine power or upshifting.

Steering

Covers steering principles, including power steering, driving on curves, and emergency steering techniques.

Driving on Curves

Emphasizes the importance of taking curves at reasonable speeds and managing speed for control.

Steering in Emergencies

Explains that steering can be more effective than braking in emergencies and how to execute evasive action.

Loss of Control

Reviews how loss of control occurs when control systems exceed tire traction, especially on slippery surfaces.

Skidding

Explains the three types of skids (braking, steering, acceleration) and how to avoid or correct them.

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

Discusses challenges of driving in rain and on wet roads, including reduced traction and visibility.

Hydroplaning

Explains the danger of hydroplaning, how it occurs due to water under tires, and factors contributing to it.

Driving on Snow or Ice

Provides advice for driving on snow or ice, emphasizing caution, slowing down, and using Enhanced Traction System.

If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

Provides methods for freeing a stuck vehicle, including the 'rocking' technique, with cautions about wheel spin.

Towing Your Vehicle

Advises consulting a dealer or towing service for disabled vehicle towing and recreational towing information.

Loading Your Vehicle

Emphasizes the importance of knowing vehicle capacity weight and not exceeding GVWR or GAWR limits.

Towing a Trailer

Warns about the risks of towing a trailer without correct equipment and proper driving, and advises dealer consultation.

Driving with a Trailer

Provides essential advice for driving with a trailer, including getting to know the rig and checking components.

Passing

Explains the increased passing distance required when towing a trailer and the need to go further before returning to lane.

Section 5 Service and Appearance Care

Doing Your Own Service Work

Guides on performing your own service work, recommending proper service manuals and cautioning about safety.

Gasoline Octane

Recommends using regular unleaded gasoline with 87 octane or higher, and explains the effects of lower octane.

Checking Things Under the Hood

Provides cautions about underhood electric fans and hot engine parts that can cause injury or fire.

Engine Oil

Covers engine oil checking, adding, type, and change indicators, emphasizing proper maintenance.

Checking Engine Oil

Explains how to check engine oil level by using the dipstick, ensuring the engine is warm and vehicle is level.

When to Add Engine Oil

Describes when to add engine oil based on dipstick readings (MIN mark or cross-hatched area) and cautions against overfilling.

What Kind of Engine Oil to Use

Recommends using oil meeting GM Standard GM6094M and specifies SAE 5W-30 viscosity as best for the vehicle.

When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil Life System)

Explains the GM Oil Life System for indicating oil changes based on engine conditions, not just mileage.

How to Reset the CHANGE OIL Light

Provides instructions for resetting the CHANGE OIL light using the accelerator pedal after an oil change.

Engine Coolant

Explains the DEX-COOL® engine coolant, its properties, and the importance of using the correct mixture.

What to Use

Recommends a 50/50 mixture of clean water and DEX-COOL® coolant, warning against plain water use.

Brakes

Covers brake fluid, its function, checking levels, and cautions regarding spills and incorrect fluid types.

Brake Fluid

Explains that brake fluid is DOT-3 and its level should only be adjusted during brake system work.

Brake Wear

Describes brake wear indicators, sounds, and cautions about continuing to drive with worn brake pads.

Jump Starting

Offers instructions for safely jump-starting a vehicle with a dead battery using jumper cables.

Tires

Covers tire maintenance, including quality, safety, sidewall labeling, and replacement.

CAUTION:

Warns that poorly maintained or improperly used tires are dangerous, leading to overheating or accidents.

Inflation - Tire Pressure

Explains correct tire inflation pressures, checks, and the dangers of under or overinflation.

If a Tire Goes Flat

Provides advice on handling a tire blowout or slow leak, including steering, braking, and stopping procedures.

Changing a Flat Tire

Explains how to safely change a flat tire by driving slowly to a level place and turning on hazard flashers.

Section 6 Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Schedule

Provides an introduction to the maintenance schedule and requirements, emphasizing importance for vehicle condition.

Maintenance Requirements

States that maintenance intervals, checks, and parts are necessary for good working condition; damage from neglect may void warranty.

Scheduled Maintenance

Explains how the CHANGE OIL light indicates required service and outlines Maintenance I and Maintenance II schedules.

Engine Oil Level Check

Explains how to check engine oil level and add proper oil if necessary.

Section 7 Customer Assistance Information

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