Chevrolet PRIZM 1996 Owner's Manual

997

Seats and Seat Controls This part tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining front seatbacks, head restraints

Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the h

Lamps on Reminder If you turn the ignition to LOCK or ACC and leave the lamps on, you’ll hear a tone when you open the driver’s door. Dayt

Interior Lamps Dome Lamp Instrument Panel Brightness Control L This knob controls the brightness of your instrument panel lights. Turn the knob

Reading Lamp I If you have a sunroof, you have a reading lamp near the sunroof switch. Press the switch to turn the lamp on and press it aga

Outside Manual Adjust Mirrors Adjust these mirrors by hand so that you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfor

Storage Compartments Glove Box To open the glove box door, squeeze the buttons. Always keep the glove box door closed while driving. Door Sto

Console St0 ! Area " A small storage area is in the console between the seats. If there is a cover, lift it up to access the storage a

To use the lighter, push the lighter in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself. If the engine is not runni

Sunroof (Option) I \\ I II I If you have a sunroof, you can tilt or open it. To tilt the sunroof, press the switch marked UP. Press the o

If the sunroof will not close, follow these instructions: 1. Remove the cover screw (use a cross-recess screwdriver) and take off the sunroof

To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Push on the se

Instrument Panel 2-42

A. Side Window Defogger Vent B. Electric Mirror Control C. Brightness Control D. Hood Release E. Turn SignaVMultifunction Lever E T Wheel Lever G.

Standard Cluster Your instrument cluster is de; ned to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re

Optional Cluster If you have the optional cluster, your instrument panel gives you additional information. This cluster includes a tachometer

Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odomete

Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to ON or START, a buzzer will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their saf

Charging System Light This light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, but the engine is not running, as a check to show yo

/1\ CAUTION: r- I Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning

’ A CAUTION: I Your regular Ldke system may not be working properly if the anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing. Driving with

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Standard Cluster Optional Cluster This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves in

up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against y

NOTICE: If you keep driving your’vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel econ

If the Light Is On Steady Have you recently changed brands of fuel? You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering

Engine Oil Pressure Light If you have a problem with your oil, this light may stay on after you start your engine or come on when you are

Overdrive Off Light OD OFF If you have an automatic transaxle with OVERDRIVE, this light appears on your instrument cluster. The light will com

Fuel Gage Standard Cluster Optional Cluster Your fuel gage shows about how much fuel is in your tank. The fuel gage works only when the ignit

Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered wi

Comfort Controls With this system, you can control the heating and ventilation in your Geo. If you have the air conditioning option, you ca

Air Intake Lever a RECIRCULATE: Choose this position to recirculate the inside air through the comfort control system. &h CIRCULATE: Choose

Bi-Level You may want to use bi-level heating on cool, but sunny days. This setting directs outside air toward your body and warmer air

Ventilation Tips 0 0 0 0 Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and def

To fold either seatback down: . .. 1. Push the button on the top of the seatback while you pull down on the seatback. (Repeat the procedure

I NOTICE: Don’t use a razor blade or something else sharp on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage the wa

AM-FM Stereo (If Equipped) Playing the Radio ON-VOL: This knob turns the system on and off and controls the volume. To increase volume and turn

Setting the Tone BASS: Turn the control behind the TREB knob clockwise to increase bass. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease bass. TREB: T

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press the right or le

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn this control behind the FADE knob to move the sound between the right and left speakers. The middle p

MTL: Your bias is set automatically. MTL will appear on your display when a metal or chrome tape is inserted. RCLFROG: Press this button to

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM, FM1 or FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press the right or left arrow t

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn this control behind the FADE knob to move the sound between the right and left speakers. The middle

MTL: Your bias is set automatically. MTL will appear on the display when a metal or chrome tape is inserted. RCL: Press this button to

PRV (4): Press this button to go to the start of a current track. If you hold the button, or press it more than once, the player will conti

Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things yo

4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until ---- shows on the display. 5. Press the SEEK right or left arrow, or the TUNE

Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss If power is disrupted to the radio while in the SEC mode, the unit will not work and L

To help avoid hearing loss or damage: Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably a

Cleaning may be done with a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner ca

fi NOTES 3-20

Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also i

P Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device i

Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of

Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same bod

The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll b

Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.) In most states and Canadian p

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

Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traf

Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam o

Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you ge

Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but i

Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck st

Off-Road Recovery You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re drivi

Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces y

Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration)

Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by alcohol

I .. . Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. 1-8

Night Vision No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may re

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left,

Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your br

Hydroplaning Driving Through Deep Standing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actua

lity Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other

Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest of all roads.

Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in your “blind” spot. Once

Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it hi

If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and

Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency s

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... or the instrument panel . . . 1-9

Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there

Remember, unless you have anti-lock, if you brake so hard that your wheels stop rolling, you’ll just slide. Brake so your wheels always keep

Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket arou

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the

MFG. BY NEW UNITED MOTOR MANUFACTURING INC. THE DATE OF MANUFACT’ PASS CAR BA416932 The other label is the Certification label, found on t

-I Things you put inside your vehiche can strwe and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. Put things in the trunk of your vehi

NOTICE: Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a tra

0 0 Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 kdh) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This

A B If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you

Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer

~ or the safety belts! ~ ~ With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. ~ You get more time to stop. You stop over more

Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This

firn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Chec

When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: 0 Start your engine

Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. 5-2 5-3 5-7 5-13 Hazard Warning Flash

Hazard Warning Flashers ... Press the button to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers

Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehic

2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it

I CAUTION: (Continued) I Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you. Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your ski

9. The other end of the negative (-) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the

Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a Chevrolet/Geo dealer or a professional towing service tow your Geo. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Ind

&: If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? A: You may be an excellent driver, but if

A velAe can fall from a car carrier if it isn’t adequately secured. This can cause a collision, serious personal injury and vehicle damage. Th

Front Towing NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipment or fascia damage will occur. Use wheel-lift or carcarrier equipment. Additional ramping m

Attach T-hook chains to the slots in the frame brackets, just ahead of the front wheels, on both sides. Attach a separate safety chain

Rear Towing L; I Attach T-hook chains to slots in the bottom of the floor pan, just ahead of the rear wheels, on both sides. I NOTICE: Do not t

NOTICE: (Continued) Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment. Use safety chai

Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage or the warning light about a hot engine on your Geo instrument panel. If Steam Is C

If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. So

When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 1. Coolant Recovery Tank 2. Radiator Pressure Cap 3. Electric Engine Fan

The coolant level should at or above FULL. be If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at FULL, add a 50/50 mixtu

..

Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driv.er has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear

CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engin

' A CAUTION: I Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you tur

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap

3. Fill the radiator with the proper coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to FULL. 5

6. 7. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fans. By this ti

If a Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires pr

The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. .. I The equipment you'll need is in the trunk. 5-24

Move the carpet from the top of the spare tire cover. To remove the cover over the spare, turn the knob counterclockwise until the cover be

". . ... 7 -\ -- 7 Ir k I Attach the jack handle to the jack. Turn the jack handle to the right to raise the lift head. Remove the whee

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire I 1. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet. 2.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long en

3. Position the jack and raise the jack lift head until it fits firmly into the notches closest to the flat tire. (Under the vehicle near e

I A CAUTION: 4. Raise the vehicle by rotating the jack handle clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room

6. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. A CAUTION: F br dirt on the wheel, or on thc arts to which

7. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against th

9. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-cross sequence as shown. Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools A CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle

Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the

If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. The metho

Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. Th

Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your Geo. This section begins with service and fuel inf

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. Pull t

Service Your Geo dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service

Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may

Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbon

Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to

Remote Fuel Door Release Lever 1 The fuel door release lever is near the floor to the left of the driver's seat. , , i j.. .,: L The c

If you get gasoline on yaurself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fu

Checking Things Under the Hood Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the release handle inside the vehicle. It's on the bottom p

Lift the hood, release the hood prop from its retainer and put the hood prop into the slot in the hood. /!\ CAUTION: An electric fan under th

When you open the hood on a 1.6L (Code 6) or a 1.8L (Code 8) engine with anti-lock brakes, you'll see: Vehicle equipped with anti-lock

A. Windshield Washer Reservoir B. Engine Compartment Fuse Blocks C. Engine Oil Dipstick D. Oil Fill Cap E. Power Steering Reservoir E Radiator P

@ What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. You can be seriously hu

Engine Oil If the engine oil pressure light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. F

Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keepin

.. The engine oil fill cap is located near the back of the engine compartment, on the . .- passenger’s side. Just fill it enough to put the le

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE

I RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS I FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AWD COW STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED

Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Geo dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Chan

Air Cleaner To check or replace the filter: The air cleaner and filter are on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. 1. Release the f

’ A CAUTIOP’ Operating me engine with the air cleaner otr can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops

How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Geo dealership Service Department

Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 1. 2. 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The flu

&: What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place. A CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in th

Manual Transaxle Fluid How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids

Check the fluid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transaxle is cool enough for you to rest

When to Check and What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often you should check the fluid level in your clutch mast

What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half coolant that meets GM Specification 1825-M, which won’t da

Checking Coolant When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at LOW, or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level s

Radiator Pressure Cap NOTICE: Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant l

How To Check Power Steering Fluid Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. The

Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you

If you have anti-lock brakes, your windshield washer fluid tank looks like this. Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer

So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are

@ What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. You can be seriously

NOTICE: 0 0 Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in yo

Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something

Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well

Bulb Replacement See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to check the size and type of bulb you need to use. Halogen Bulbs A CAUTION: Halogen bu

3. Reach behind the headlamp assembly and find the lock ring assembly. 4. 5. 6. 7. Turn the lock ring assembly counterclockwise. (It does

Front Sidemarker Lamps Front Turn Signal Lamps 1. 2. 3. 4. Remove the screw near the top outside of the headlamp assembly. Remove the sidemar

4. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull it out. 5. Push the bulb in, turn it counterclockwise and pull 6. T verse the steps with

3. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull the bulb straight out. 4. Reverse the steps with a new bulb. Rear Combination Lamps The co

I 4. Remove the nut from the stud near the rear corner of the trunk. 5. Remove the rear combination lamp assembly. There is a snap-in connect

Back-up Lamps 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Open the trunk. Remove the trim on the trunk lid (if your vehicle is so equipped). Remove the screw from the

What's wrong with this? A: The belt is twisted across the body. b I A CAUTION: I You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In

x- -: (Continued) I 0 0 0 Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check

When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa). How to Check Use a g

I A 1 When It’s Time for New Tires /!\ CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become l

Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. Make sure the replacements are

Treadwear Temperature -- A, B, C: The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under control

Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest

r I Used Replacement Wheels I L I A CAUTION: I I Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how

Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them o

Using Foam-vpe Cleaner on Fabric 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. Always clean a whole trim

Special Cleaning Problems Greasy or Oily Stains Stains caused by grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe polish, coffee with cream, chewing gum

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt

Cleaning Leather Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap or saddle soap and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Then, let the

Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner (GM Part No. 1050427) or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove n

Cleaning the Outside of Your Geo The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of color, gloss retention and durability. Washing

Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from i

Finish Damage Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly a

Appc mce Care Materials Ch; IGT NUMBER I SIZE I Du,CR1rTION I USAGE I I 994954 I 23 in. x 25 in. I Polishing Cloth - Wax Treated I Exterior Polish

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) PLANT This is the legal identifier for your Geo. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the i

Headlamps Fuses and Circuit Breakers The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go

Driver’s Side Instrument Panel Fuse Block 1. Not Used Your fuse block is beneath the instrument panel on the driver’s ’side near the door.

Engine Compartment Fuse Block Most of your fuses are in the fuse block. Some are in two electrical centers in your engine compartment. These el

The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’

Engine Compartment Fusemelay Block 2 1. CDS 2. ACMG 3. AC FAN NO. 3: Air Conditioner Fan Relay #3 4. AC FAN NO. 2: Air Conditioner Fan Relay

Passenger’s Side Kick Panel c1 1. A/C: Air Conditioning System 2. 40 A: Air Conditioning System There is one fuse located underneath the car

Replacement Bulbs Back-up ... 1156 Headlamp (High Beam) ... 9005GM Part No . 94853786 or equivalent Headlamp

Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Filter ... GM Part No. 94853522 Battery ... 35-60 Engine Oil Filter ... GM P

. 97.1 inches (2 465 mm) Vehicle Dimensions Wheelbase . . Tread Front ... 57.5 inches (1 460 mm) Rear ... 57.1 inches (

Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your Geo. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety,

I IMPORTANT: I KEEP ENGINE OIL AT THE PROPER LEVEL AND CHANGE AS RECOMMENDED I Protection Plan I Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The

How This Section is Organized The remainder of this section is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows what to hav

Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintc --Ice Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good worki

Maintenance Schedule Short TriplCity Definition Follow the Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule if any one of these conditions is true for your v

A CAUTION: Air bags inflate wmn great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously inj

Maintenance Schedule I Short TriplCity Intervals I Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Valve Clearance Inspection, adjust if necessary (or every 48

Maintenance Schedule Every 7,500 Miles (12 500 km): Engine Oil and Filter Change (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). Chassis Lubrication

I Short nip/City Maintenance Schedule I The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An E

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 9,000 Miles (15 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional i

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) (Continued) - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional in

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 27,000 Miles (45 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emis

GefB The 1997 Geo Prizrn Owner’s Manual 1-1 2-1 3-1 4- 1 5- 1 6-1 7-1 8-1 9-1 Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use

How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. Where are the air bags? Th

I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule I ~~ 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) (Continued) 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Ind

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 33,000 Miles (55 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Em

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 36,000 Miles (60 000 km) (Continued) 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for

I Short nip/City Maintenance Schedule I 42,000 Miles (70 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emi

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first).

I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule I 48,000 Miles (80 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An E

Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emis

[ Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additiona

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule1 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An E

miTrip/City Maintenance Schedule I 0 Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 24 months, whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in th

If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag may not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. Th

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 63,000 Miles (105 000 k-- ' 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs firs

I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule I 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additiona

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 72,000 Miles (120 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Em

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 78,000 Miles (130 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 81,000 Miles (135 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An E

I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) (Con-_’_-_--_-. 9 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspect,,n and Rotation” in the I

Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emis

1 Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) (Continued) Change manual transaxle fluid every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) only if

I Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 93,000 Miles (155 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An

How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering

)Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule I 96,000 Miles (160 000 km) (Continued) 0 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index fo

Lung Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 mil

I Long Tripmighway Mainten e Schedule I 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emi

., , I LVI~ hip/Highway Maintenance Schedule I 22,500 Miles (37 500 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).

1 Long TripMighway Pm-:-Cenance Schedule I -’ 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) (1 ued) 17 Inspect fuel tank, cap, cap gasket and lines for damage or leaks

I Long TripP-9w-1 Maintenance Schedult: - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, po

1 Long Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule I 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).

I L--- ’I.ipRighwr=r IVqintenance SPedule 1 - 52,500 Mill : (87 500 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first

1 Lung Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule I 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) (Continued) 0 Replace air cleaner filter (or every 24 months, whichever oc

I Long Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule I vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: . - In heavy city traffic where the o

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occ

I Long Tripmighway Maintenance Sched.ule I - ~~ 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs

I Long Trip/I’:-r,hway Maintenance-Schedule I 82,500 Miler , ‘137 500 k 1) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs fir

I Long Tripmighway Maintenance Schedule I 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) (Continued) 0 Inspect engine accessory drive belts (or 12 months since last

~~ Long TripHighway Maintenance Schedule I - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or If you do not use your v

Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed below are owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to hel

At Least Twice a Year Wiper Blade Check Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade inserts that appear worn or damaged or that

At Least Once a Year Startc- ‘- *’ h (- ~ eck Key Lock Cylinders Service Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant specified in

3. On automatic transaxle vehicles, try to start the engine in each gear. The starter should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the

Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Mechanism Check A CAUTION: I When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. Yo

Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for

A CAUTION: For up to two minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper

Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obta

USAGE Manual Transaxle Shift Linkage Clutch Linkage Pivot Points Floor Shift Linkage Chassis Lubrication FLUIDLUBRICANT Chassis lubricant (GM Part

1 __ E: Maintenance Record Att the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in

Maintenance Record 7-59

Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE MAINTENANCE PERFORMED SERVICED BY READING 7-60

1 Section 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact ChevroletlGeo if you need assistance. This section also

Customer Satisfaction Procedure Chevrolet/Geo dealers have the facilities, trained technicians and up-to-date information to promptly addr

STEP TWO -- If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help,

For prompt assistance, please have the following information available to give the Customer Assistance Representative: e 0 e e e Your name,

ChevroletJGeo Roadside Assistance Program n To enhance Chevrolet/Geo’s strong commitment to customer satisfaction, Chevrolet/Geo is excited to

Lap-Shoulder Belt 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don

ROADSIDE Courtesy Rvl Care PROVIDES: 0 Roadside Basic Care services (as outlined above) 0 FREE Non-Warranty Towing (to the closest dealer 0 FRE

For prompt assistance when calling, please have the following available to give to the advisor: 0 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) 0 Li

Courtesy Transportation includes: 0 0 0 0 0 0 One way shuttle ride for any warranty repair completed during the same day. Up to $30 maximu

GM Participation in an Alternative Dispute Resolution Program This program is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Cana

We prefer you utilize the Customer Satisfaction Procedure before you resort to AUTO LINE, but you may contact the BBB at any time. The

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle has a safety defect, you sh

1997 CHEVROLET/GEO SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehic

& NOTES 8-14

Gem Section 9 Index Air Bag ... 1-20 How Does it Restrain ... 1-24 How it Works ...

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the str

Brakes. Anti-Lock ... 4-7 Braking ... 4-6 Braking in Emergencies ...

Compact Disc Care ... ... 3-19 Compact Spare Tire ... 5-34 Console Storage Area ...

Electrical Equipment. Adding ... 2- 12. 3. 18 Electrical System ... 6-58 Engine ...

GAWR ... 4-30 Gear Positions. Manual Transaxle ... 2- 16 Glove Box ...

Labels Certification ... ... 4-30 Service Parts Identification ... 6-58 Tire-Loading Information ...

Manual Transaxle ... 2-1 1. 2.16 Fluid ... 6-22 Operation ...

Radiator ... ... 5-20 Radiator Pressure Cap ... 5-20 . 6-27 Radio Reception ...

How to Wear Properly ... 1 . 1 1 Incorrect Usage ... 1.15.1.56. 1.57 Lap Belt ...

Steam ... 5-13 Steering ... 4- 10 In Emergencies ...

Total Weight on Tires ... 4-34 Towing ... 4-31 Turnsignals ... 4

Lap Belt To unlawh the belt, just push the button on the buckle. Center Passenger Position I When you sit in the center seating position, y

Service Station Checkpoints TIRES P6-41 HOOD PROP SECONDARY HOOD RELEASE P6-8 I I I I \ ENGINE COOLANT RECOVERY TANK P5-17 BATTERY P5-3.6-34 REMOTE F

ml ENVIRONMENTAL

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap par

I I ' A CAUTION: I 1 Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn't weigh much -- until a crash. During a cras

I; 1 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, CHEVROLET, the CHEVROLET Emblem, GEO, the GEO Emblem and the name PRIZM are registered trademarks

Built-in Child Restraint (Option) If your vehicle has this option, there’s a built-in child restraint in the right rear seat position. Th

With this built-in child restraint, you can adjust the height of the harness. Depending on the seated height of the child, you can route it

Q; What if the top of my child’s shoulders is above the highest pair of slots? A: A child whose shoulders are above the highest slots

2. Fold the top half of the seatback down. 3. Lower the child restraint cushion. Make sure the top half of the seatback is folded under

4. Add slack to the harness. To do this, pull the harness release strap (C) firmly. At the same time, pull both sides of the harness (D) thr

6. Pull down the seatback part of the pad (E). 7. Select one side of the harness. Feed some harness slack back into the slot. When moving th

8. Move the harness out of the slot and all the way up to the angled slot position. You may have to squeeze and turn the harness sl

10. Route the harness through the correct slot. You may have to squeeze and turn the harness slightly to route it through the slot. 11. Pull on

Securing a Child in the Built-in Child Restraint Now that the harness is adjusted to the correct height for your child, you’re ready to

1. Before placing the child on the child restraint cushion, add slack to the harness. Pull the harness release strap (C) firmly. At the same

How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you d

5. Push both latch plates (F) into the buckle until it clicks. Be sure the buckle is free of any foreign objects that may prevent you fro

dia CAUTION: An unfastened shoulder harness clip won’t help keep the harness in place on the child’s shoulders. If the harness isn’t on the child’

8. Adjust the position of the harness on the child’s shoulders by moving the clip up or down along the harness. On each side of the har

Storing the Built-in Child Restraint Always properly store the built-in child restraint before using the vehicle’s lap-shoulder belt i

3. 4. 5. Fold the child restraint cushion up into the seatback. Make sure the harness adjustment strap is folded up in the seatback. Attac

Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front sea

Top Strap Canadian law requires that child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat.

5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. I 6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder b

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position You’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the

Vehicle Damage Warnings In the notice area, we tell you about something that can h i But the notice will tell you what to do to help

5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had t

Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why: ~ A CAUTION: A child

6. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 7. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder bel

Larger Children 1 ’- Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child shou

A CAUTION: Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two c

A CAUTION: ,. . Never do this.‘ Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new safety belts or built-in child restraint parts? Aft

& NOTES 1-60

Gem Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Geo, and information on start

Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. For example, these symbols are used on an original battery: POSSI

Keys A CAUTION: Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be

1 One key is used for the ignition, the doors and all When a new Prizm is delivered, the dealer removes the metal plate from the key ring

Door Locks r L Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked,

Power Door Locks (Option) Rear Door Security Locks Push the power door lock switch on the driver’s door to lock or unlock all the doors at o

To use one of these locks: 1. Turn the knob so the bar points up and down. 2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thing to the other rear door

Trunk Trunk Lock Release I A CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle.

Remote Trunk Lock Release Pull the lever on the floor near the driver’s door to open the trunk lid from inside your vehicle. Theft Vehicl

1 Yew Vehicle L6Break-In” .. NOTICE: Your modern Geo doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you foll

If you have an automatic transaxle, the ignition switch can’t be turned to LOCK unless the shift lever is in the PARK (P) position. ACC (

Starting Your Engine Automatic Transaxle Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that

b NOTES vi

2. If it doesn’t start in three seconds, wait about 15 seconds and try again to start the engine by turning the ignition key to START.

Automatic Transaxle Operation There are several different positions for your shift lever. PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best pos

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Geo has a brake-transaxle shifl interlock. You have to fu

DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: Going less than about 27 mph (43 km/h), push your a

Overdrive (Option) If your automatic transaxle has OVERDRIVE, you can use it for better fuel economy. After starting your engine, always p

Keep your feet off the clutch pedal unless operating the clutch. Avoid excessive use of the clutch in a half-engaged condition, otherwise th

Manual Transaxle Recommended Shift Speeds Parking Brake lt02 2to3 3to4 4to5 or2to1 or3to2 Or4tO3 or5to4 ENGINE 1.6L (CODE 6) (24) 15 25 40 45 15 23

To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can press the release button. Hold th

Shifting Into PARK (P) (AutAwPic Tr-caxle PnWs Only) A CAUTION: 1 It can be da~ - us to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Mod 91s Only) L It ca )e dangerous to ,,ave your VLJU~ w 1 the engine

Gem Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Geo and how to use your safety belts proper

Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don't park over

Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transaxle) It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are

. Vindows Manual Windows Use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (Option) With power windows, switches on the

Tilt Wheel (Option) 'hrn SignaYMultifunction Lever The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: Turn Signal and Lane

’krn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positio

Windshield Wipermasher Lever The lever on the right side of the steering column controls the windshield wipers and washer. Move the lever to th

Windshield Washer Cruise Control Press the button on the end of the lever to spray washer fluid on the windshield. The spray will continue

I A CAUTION: I can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traff‘ic. slippery roads. On su

3. Push the lever down to SETlCOAST and release it . Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: 0 Use the accelerator pedal to get to the hig