Chevrolet 2012 Sonic Owners Manual Owner's

2015-10-23

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Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

2012 Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual M
In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-3
Vehicle Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
Performance and
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Keys, Doors, and
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Keys and Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Vehicle Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Exterior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Interior Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Seats and Restraints . . . . . . . . . 3-1
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Child Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-32

Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storage Compartments . . . . . . . . 4-1
Luggage/Load Locations . . . . . . . 4-1
Additional Storage Features . . . 4-2

Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Instruments and Controls . . . . 5-1
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Information Displays . . . . . . . . . . 5-23
Vehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27
Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . . 5-27

Driving and Operating . . . . . . . . 9-1
Driving Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Starting and Operating . . . . . . . 9-15
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Automatic Transmission . . . . . . 9-24
Manual Transmission . . . . . . . . . 9-26
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Ride Control Systems . . . . . . . . 9-29
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39
Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-40

Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Lighting Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Infotainment System . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19

Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 10-2
Vehicle Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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2012 Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual M
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . 10-80
Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 11-3
Special Application
Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8
Additional Maintenance
and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9
Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . 11-12
Maintenance Records . . . . . . . 11-15

Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Vehicle Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Customer Information . . . . . . . 13-1
Customer Information . . . . . . . . 13-1
Reporting Safety Defects . . . . 13-13
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
OnStar Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
OnStar Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
OnStar Additional
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1

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Introduction

The names, logos, emblems,
slogans, vehicle model names, and
vehicle body designs appearing in
this manual including, but not limited
to, GM, the GM logo, CHEVROLET,
the CHEVROLET Emblem, and
SONIC are trademarks and/or
service marks of General Motors
LLC, its subsidiaries, affiliates,
or licensors.

Litho in U.S.A.
Part No. 20897861 B Second Printing

This manual describes features that
may or may not be on your specific
vehicle either because they are
options that you did not purchase or
due to changes subsequent to the
printing of this owner manual.
Please refer to the purchase
documentation relating to your
specific vehicle to confirm each of
the features found on your vehicle.
For vehicles first sold in Canada,
substitute the name “General
Motors of Canada Limited” for
Chevrolet Motor Division wherever
it appears in this manual.

iii

Canadian Vehicle Owners
Propriétaires Canadiens
A French language copy of this
manual can be obtained from your
dealer or from:
On peut obtenir un exemplaire de
ce guide en français auprès du
concessionnaire ou à l'adresse
suivante:
Helm, Incorporated
Attention: Customer Service
47911 Halyard Drive
Plymouth, MI 48170

Keep this manual in the vehicle for
quick reference.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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Introduction

Using this Manual
To quickly locate information about
the vehicle, use the Index in the
back of the manual. It is an
alphabetical list of what is in the
manual and the page number where
it can be found.

Danger, Warnings, and
Cautions
Warning messages found on vehicle
labels and in this manual describe
hazards and what to do to avoid or
reduce them.

{ WARNING
These mean there is something
that could hurt you or other
people.
Notice: This means there is
something that could result in
property or vehicle damage. This
would not be covered by the
vehicle's warranty.

The vehicle has components and
labels that use symbols instead of
text. Symbols are shown along with
the text describing the operation or
information relating to a specific
component, control, message,
gauge, or indicator.

M : This symbol is shown when
you need to see your owner manual
for additional instructions or
information.
* : This symbol is shown when
you need to see a service manual
for additional instructions or
information.

Danger indicates a hazard with a
high level of risk which will result in
serious injury or death.
Warning or Caution indicates a
hazard that could result in injury or
death.

Symbols

A circle with a slash through it is a
safety symbol which means “Do
Not,” “Do not do this,” or “Do not let
this happen.”

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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Introduction
Vehicle Symbol Chart
Here are some additional symbols
that may be found on the vehicle
and what they mean. For more
information on the symbol, refer to
the Index.

9 : Airbag Readiness Light
! : Antilock Brake System (ABS)
% : Audio® Steering Wheel Controls

or OnStar

$ : Brake System Warning Light
" : Charging System
I : Cruise Control
B : Engine Coolant Temperature
O : Exterior Lamps
# : Fog Lamps

. : Fuel Gauge
+ : Fuses
3 : Headlamp High/Low-Beam
Changer

j : LATCH System Child
Restraints
* : Malfunction Indicator Lamp
: : Oil Pressure
} : Power
/ : Remote Vehicle Start
> : Safety Belt Reminders
7 : Tire Pressure Monitor
d : Traction Control/StabiliTrak®
M : Windshield Washer Fluid

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Introduction

2 NOTES

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In Brief

In Brief
Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2

Initial Drive Information
Initial Drive Information . . . . . . . . 1-3
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Trunk Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-7
Second Row Seats . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
Head Restraint Adjustment . . . . 1-9
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9

Passenger Sensing System . . . 1-9
Mirror Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Steering Wheel
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Interior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-11
Exterior Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
Windshield Wiper/Washer . . . . 1-12
Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

Vehicle Features
Radio(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Portable Audio Devices . . . . . .
Bluetooth® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering Wheel Controls . . . . .
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Driver Information
Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1-15
1-16
1-16
1-16
1-17
1-17
1-18
1-18
1-18

1-1

Performance and Maintenance
Traction Control
System (TCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
StabiliTrak® System . . . . . . . . . 1-19
Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . 1-20
Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . . 1-20
Hood Release . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Driving for Better Fuel
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

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1-2

In Brief

Instrument Panel

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In Brief
A. Air Vents on page 8‑3.

M. Cruise Control on page 9‑33.

B. Exterior Lamp Controls on
page 6‑1.

N. Steering Wheel Adjustment on
page 5‑2.

C. Instrument Panel Illumination
Control on page 6‑5.

O. Steering Wheel Controls on
page 5‑2.

D. Turn and Lane-Change Lever.
See Turn and Lane-Change
Signals on page 6‑4.

E. Instrument Cluster on page 5‑8.
F.

Horn on page 5‑2.

G. Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 5‑3.
H. Display Screen.
I.

Infotainment on page 7‑1.

Storage. See Instrument Panel
Storage on page 4‑1.

K. Hood Release. See Hood on
page 10‑4.
L.

Data Link Connector (DLC)
(Out of View). See Malfunction
Indicator Lamp on page 5‑13.

Ignition Switch. See Ignition
Positions on page 9‑15.

1-3

Initial Drive
Information
This section provides a brief
overview about some of the
important features that may or may
not be on your specific vehicle.

Q. Central Locking System on
page 2‑7.

For more detailed information, refer
to each of the features which can be
found later in this owner manual.

R. Climate Control Systems on
page 8‑1.

Starting the Engine

S. Shift Lever. See Automatic
Transmission on page 9‑24
(If Equipped) or Manual
Transmission on page 9‑26
(If Equipped).
T.

Hazard Warning Flashers on
page 6‑4.

U. Passenger Sensing System on
page 3‑26.

The vehicle has a
Computer-Controlled Cranking
System. It assists in starting the
engine and protects components.
If the ignition key is turned to
START and then released when the
engine begins cranking, the engine
will continue cranking for a few
seconds or until the engine starts.
If the engine does not start and
the key is held in START, cranking
will be stopped after 15 seconds
to prevent damage. To prevent
gear damage, cranking is not
allowed if the engine is running.

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1-4

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In Brief

Engine cranking can be stopped by
turning the ignition key to ACC/
ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF. See
Starting the Engine on page 9‑17.

Press K to unlock the driver door or
all doors.
Press

Q to lock all doors.

Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System

Lock and unlock feedback can be
personalized. See Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑27.

The RKE transmitter will work up to
20 m (65 ft) away from the vehicle.

Press

V to open the trunk.
Press and release 7 to locate the

vehicle.
Press and hold 7 for at least
two seconds to sound the panic
alarm.
Press 7 again to cancel the panic
alarm.
See Keys on page 2‑2 and Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation on page 2‑3.
RKE without Remote Start Shown
Press the key release button to
extend the key blade. The key can
be used for the ignition and all
locks.

Remote Vehicle Start
For vehicles with this feature, the
engine can be started from outside
the vehicle.

Starting the Vehicle
1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the
vehicle.
2. Press and release

3. Immediately after completing
Step 2, press and hold / until
the turn signal lamps flash, or for
about two seconds if the vehicle
is not in view.
When the engine starts, the parking
lamps will turn on and remain on as
long as the engine is running. The
doors will be locked and the climate
control system may come on.
The engine will continue to run for
10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a
10-minute time extension. Remote
start can be extended only once.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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In Brief
Canceling a Remote Start

Door Locks

To cancel a remote start, do one of
the following:

To lock or unlock the doors from
outside the vehicle:

Aim the RKE transmitter at the
vehicle and press and hold /
until the parking lamps turn off.

Use the key in the driver door to
lock all doors or unlock the
driver door only.

Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.

Turn the vehicle on and then off.

Press Q or K on the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
See Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System Operation on
page 2‑3.

See Remote Vehicle Start on
page 2‑4.

1-5

To lock or unlock the doors from
inside the vehicle:
.

Press Q or K on the central
locking switch.

Pull the door handle. Pulling the
door handle again unlatches
the door.

Use the lock knob on the top of
the door panel.

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1-6

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In Brief

Trunk Release

For more information see:
.

Door Locks on page 2‑6.

Central Locking System on
page 2‑7.

To lock or unlock the trunk from the
outside, press Q or K on the RKE
transmitter. See Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) System Operation on
page 2‑3.

Liftgate
To lock or unlock the liftgate from
the outside, press Q or K on the
RKE transmitter. See Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation on page 2‑3.
To lock or unlock the liftgate from
the inside, press Q or K on the
central locking switch located on the
center stack.

To lock or unlock the trunk from the
inside, press Q or K on the central
locking switch located on the center
stack.
To open the liftgate from outside of
the vehicle:
.

Press K on the RKE transmitter,
then use the touch pad.

Press V on the
RKE transmitter.

See Liftgate (Hatchback) on
page 2‑10.

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In Brief

Windows
Manual Windows

1-7

Accessory Power (RAP) is active.
See Retained Accessory Power
(RAP) on page 9‑19.

Use the window crank to open and
close each window.

See Power Windows on page 2‑15.

See Manual Windows on page 2‑14.

Seat Adjustment

Power Windows

Manual Seats

Push the switch down to open the
window. Pull the front of the switch
up to close it.

To adjust a manual seat:

To open the trunk from outside of
the vehicle:
.

Press K on the RKE transmitter,
then use the touch pad.

Press V on the
RKE transmitter.

See Trunk (Sedan) on page 2‑8 and
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation on page 2‑3.

The switches work when the
vehicle is in ON/RUN or ACC/
ACCESSORY, or when Retained

1. Pull the handle at the front of
the seat.
2. Slide the seat to the desired
position and release the handle.

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1-8

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In Brief

3. Try to move the seat back and
forth to be sure it is locked in
place.

Reclining Seatbacks

See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4.

2. Move the seatback to the
desired position, and then
release the lever to lock the
seatback in place.

Seat Height Adjuster

3. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked in place.
To return the seatback to the upright
position:
1. Lift the lever fully without
applying pressure to the
seatback, and the seatback will
return to the upright position.
To recline a manual seatback:
1. Lift the lever.

If available, move the lever up or
down to manually raise or lower
the seat.
See Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4.

If necessary, move the safety
belt out of the way to access the
lever.

2. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked.
See Reclining Seatbacks on
page 3‑5.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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In Brief

Second Row Seats

Safety Belts

The rear seatbacks can be folded
down to increase cargo space.

1-9

Passenger Sensing
System

See Rear Seats on page 3‑8.

Head Restraint
Adjustment
Do not drive until the head restraints
for all occupants are installed and
adjusted properly.
To achieve a comfortable seating
position, change the seatback
recline angle as little as necessary
while keeping the seat and the head
restraint height in the proper
position.
See Head Restraints on page 3‑2
and Seat Adjustment on page 3‑4.

United States

Refer to the following sections for
important information on how to use
safety belts properly.
.

Safety Belts on page 3‑10.

How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly on page 3‑11.

Lap-Shoulder Belt on page 3‑12.

Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Children (LATCH System) on
page 3‑39.

Canada
The passenger sensing system
turns off the front outboard
passenger frontal airbag under
certain conditions. No other airbag
is affected by the passenger
sensing system. See Passenger
Sensing System on page 3‑26.

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1-10

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In Brief

The passenger airbag status
indicator will be visible on the
instrument panel when the vehicle is
started. See Passenger Airbag
Status Indicator on page 5‑11.

Power Outside Mirrors

Hold the inside rearview mirror in
the center to move it for a clearer
view behind your vehicle. Adjust the
mirror to avoid glare from the
headlamps behind you. Push the
tab forward for daytime use and pull
it for nighttime use.

Mirror Adjustment
Exterior Mirrors

See Manual Rearview Mirror on
page 2‑14.

Manual Outside Mirrors

For vehicles with power outside
mirrors:
1. Select the mirror by moving the
selector switch to L for the driver
side or R for the passenger side.
2. Use the control knob to move
the mirror in the desired
direction.
Move the control up, down, or side
to side to adjust the mirror.
See Manual Mirrors on page 2‑13.

Interior Mirror

See Power Mirrors on page 2‑13.

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In Brief

Steering Wheel
Adjustment

Interior Lighting

1-11

Reading Lamps

Dome Lamps

For vehicles with front reading
lamps, they are located in the
overhead console.
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Pull the lever down.
2. Move the steering wheel up,
down, forward, and backward.
3. Pull the lever up to lock the
steering wheel in place.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while driving.

The dome lamp controls are located
in the headliner above the rear
seats.

9 : Press to turn the lamps off,
even when a door is open.
H : Press to turn the lamps on
automatically when a door is
opened.
R:

Press to turn on the dome lamps.

# or $ : Press to turn each lamp
on or off.
For more information about interior
lighting, see Instrument Panel
Illumination Control on page 6‑5 or
Courtesy Lamps on page 6‑5.

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1-12

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In Brief

Exterior Lighting

The exterior lamps control is located
on the instrument panel to the
outboard side of the steering
column.

Briefly turn to this position to
turn the automatic light control off or
on again.
AUTO: Turns the headlamps on
automatically at normal brightness,
together with the parking lamps,
taillamps, license plate lamps,
sidemarker lamps, and instrument
panel lights.

; : Turns on the parking lamps,
taillamps, license plate lamps,
sidemarker lamps, and instrument
panel lights.
5 : Turns on the headlamps,
parking lamps, taillamps, license
plate lamps, sidemarker lamps, and
instrument panel lights. A warning
chime sounds if the driver door is
opened when the ignition switch is
off and the headlamps are on.

Windshield Wiper/Washer

Sedan

# : For vehicles with fog lamps,
press to turn the lamps on or off.
For more information, see:
.

Exterior Lamp Controls on
page 6‑1.

Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
on page 6‑2.

Fog Lamps on page 6‑4.

Hatchback
The windshield wiper/washer lever
is located on the right side of the
steering column.
Move the lever to one of the
following positions:
HI: Use for fast wipes.
LO: Use for slow wipes.

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In Brief

Climate Controls

For vehicles with these climate
control systems, the heating,
cooling, and ventilation can be
controlled for the vehicle.

G. Recirculation

1-13

Rear Window Defogger

Hatchback Shown, Sedan Similar
INT: Move the lever up to INT for
intermittent wipes, then turn
the x INT band up for more
frequent wipes or down for less
frequent wipes.
OFF: Use to turn the wipers off.

8 : For a single wipe, briefly move
the wiper lever down. For several
wipes, hold the wiper lever down.
nL:

Pull the windshield wiper
lever toward you to spray windshield
washer fluid and activate the wipers.
See Windshield Wiper/Washer on
page 5‑3. For vehicles with a rear
window wiper/washer, see Rear
Window Wiper/Washer on page 5‑4.

Climate Control System with
Heater Only
Climate Control System with
Heater and Air Conditioning
A. Temperature Control
B. Fan Control

A. Temperature Control
B. Fan Control
C. Air Delivery Mode Control
D. Rear Window Defogger

C. Air Delivery Mode Control

E. Recirculation

D. Driver and Passenger Heated
Seats

See Climate Control Systems on
page 8‑1.

E. Air Conditioning

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

1-14

Black plate (14,1)

In Brief

Transmission

Manual Transmission

Automatic Transmission

Up‐Shift Light

Manual Mode
This position allows you to change
gears similar to a manual
transmission. To use this feature:
1. Move the shift lever from
D (Drive) rearward to
M (Manual Mode).
2. Press the + (plus) end of the
button on the side of the
shift lever to upshift, or push
the − (minus) end of the button
to downshift.
See Manual Mode on page 9‑25.

Vehicles equipped with a manual
transmission may have an up-shift
light. This light indicates when to
shift to the next higher gear for
better fuel economy.
For the best fuel economy,
accelerate slowly and shift when
the light comes on, if weather, road,
and traffic conditions allow.
It is normal for the light to go on
and off if the accelerator position
changes quickly. Ignore the light
during downshifts.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (15,1)

In Brief
Reverse Lockout

Vehicle Features
Radio(s)
O /VOL: Press to turn the system
on or off.
Turn to increase or decrease the
volume.
When the system is on, press and
release to mute the system. Press
and release again to turn the sound
back on.

The manual transmission is
equipped with a lock ring to
prevent shifting into R (Reverse). To
shift into R (Reverse), press down
the clutch pedal, lift up the ring
on the shift lever, and shift into
R (Reverse). Let up on the clutch
pedal slowly while pressing the
accelerator pedal.
See Manual Transmission on
page 9‑26.

RADIO/BAND: Press to choose FM,
AM, or XM™ (if equipped).
SEEK

¨:

Radio: Seeks the next station.

CD: Select the next track or fast
forwards within a track.

Radio: Seeks the previous
station.

CD: Select the previous track or
rewinds within a track.

1-15

MENU/TUNE: Turn to navigate the
available menus. Turn to search for
stations.
CD/AUX: Press to play a CD when
listening to the radio.
For more information about these
and other radio features, see
Operation on page 7‑5.

Storing a Favorite Station
Stations from all bands can be
stored in any order in the favorite
pages.
Up to six stations can be stored in
each favorite page and the number
of available favorite pages can
be set.
Storing Stations
To store the station to a position in
the list, press the corresponding
button 1 to 6 until a beep is heard.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

1-16

Black plate (16,1)

In Brief

Retrieving Stations
Press the FAV 1-2-3 button to open
a favorite page or to switch to
another favorite page. Briefly press
one of the 1 to 6 buttons to retrieve
the station.
See “Storing a Favorite Station”
under AM-FM Radio on page 7‑9.

Satellite Radio
XM is a satellite radio service based
in the 48 contiguous United States
and 10 Canadian provinces. XM
satellite radio has a wide variety of
programming and commercial-free
music, coast to coast, and in
digital-quality sound.

A fee is required to receive the XM
service.
For more information, refer to:
.

www.xmradio.com or call
1-800-929-2100 (U.S.)

www.xmradio.ca or call
1-877-438-9677 (Canada)

See “XM Satellite Radio Service”
under Satellite Radio on page 7‑11.

Portable Audio Devices
Some vehicles have a 3.5 mm
(1/8 in) auxiliary input and a USB
port located in the storage area to
the right of the infotainment system.
External devices such as iPods®,
laptop computers, MP3 players, CD
changers, and USB storage devices
may be connected, depending on
the audio system.
See Auxiliary Devices on page 7‑16.

Bluetooth®
The Bluetooth system allows users
with a Bluetooth-enabled cell phone
to make and receive hands-free
calls using the vehicle audio system
and controls.
The Bluetooth-enabled cell phone
must be paired with the in-vehicle
Bluetooth system before it can be
used in the vehicle. Not all phones
will support all functions.
See Bluetooth (Voice Recognition)
on page 7‑25 or Bluetooth
(Overview) on page 7‑19 or
Bluetooth (Infotainment Controls) on
page 7‑21.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (17,1)

In Brief

Steering Wheel Controls

$ / i : Press to reject an
incoming call, or end a current
call. Press to silence the vehicle
speakers while using the
infotainment system. Press
again to turn the sound on.

1-17

Cruise Control

For vehicles with OnStar or
Bluetooth systems, press to
reject an incoming call, or end a
current call.

_ SRC ^ : Press to select an audio
source.
Some audio steering wheel controls
could differ depending on the
vehicle's options. Some audio
steering wheel controls can be
adjusted at the steering wheel.

b/g:

Press to interact with the
available Bluetooth or OnStar
systems.

Toggle up or down to select the next
or previous favorite radio station or
CD/MP3 track.
+ x −: Press + or − to increase or
decrease the volume.
See Steering Wheel Controls on
page 5‑2.

5 : Press to turn the cruise control
system on and off.
RES/+: Move the thumbwheel up to
resume a previously set speed or to
accelerate.
SET/−: Move the thumbwheel down
to set a speed or to make the
vehicle decelerate.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

1-18

Black plate (18,1)

In Brief

w x : Use the thumbwheel to

Press to disengage cruise
control without erasing the set
speed from memory.

See Cruise Control on page 9‑33.

C. MENU: Press to display the DIC
menu items. This button is also
used to return to or exit the last
screen displayed on the DIC.

Driver Information
Center (DIC)
The DIC display is in the instrument
panel cluster. It shows the status of
many vehicle systems. The controls
for the DIC are located on the turn
signal lever.

See Driver Information Center (DIC)
on page 5‑23.

Power Outlets
The accessory power outlets can be
used to plug in electrical equipment,
such as a cell phone or MP3 player.
The vehicle has an accessory
power outlet located in front of the
cupholders on the center floor
console.

A. SET/CLR: Press to set or clear
the menu item when it is
displayed.

Sunroof

scroll through the items in
each menu.

See Power Outlets on page 5‑5.

On vehicles with this feature, the
sunroof only operates when the
ignition is turned to ON/RUN or
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is
active.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (19,1)

In Brief
Open/Close: To open the sunroof,
press and hold the rear of the
switch. To close the sunroof, press
and hold the front of the switch.
Vent: Press and hold the front of
the switch to vent the sunroof.
Manually close the sunshade.
The sunroof will not operate if the
vehicle has an electrical failure.
See Sunroof on page 2‑17.

Performance and
Maintenance
Traction Control
System (TCS)
The Traction Control System (TCS)
limits wheel spin. The system is on
when the vehicle is started.
.

To turn off traction control, press
and release the TCS/StabiliTrak
button g located on the center
console. The Traction Off
light i illuminates.
Press and release the TCS/
StabiliTrak button g again to turn
traction control back on.

See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 9‑29.

1-19

StabiliTrak® System
The StabiliTrak system assists with
directional control of the vehicle in
difficult driving conditions. The
system is on when the vehicle is
started.
.

To turn off both traction
control and StabiliTrak, press
and hold the TCS/StabiliTrak
button g until the Traction Off
light i and the StabiliTrak Off
light g illuminate.

Press the TCS/StabiliTrak
button g again to turn on both
systems.

See StabiliTrak® System on
page 9‑31.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

1-20

Black plate (20,1)

In Brief

Tire Pressure Monitor
This vehicle may have a Tire
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).

The TPMS warning light alerts you
to a significant loss in pressure of
one of the vehicle's tires. If the
warning light comes on, stop as
soon as possible and inflate the
tires to the recommended pressure
shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10. The warning
light will remain on until the tire
pressure is corrected.

During cooler conditions, the low tire
pressure warning light may appear
when the vehicle is first started and
then turn off. This may be an early
indicator that the tire pressures are
getting low and the tires need to be
inflated to the proper pressure.
The TPMS does not replace normal
monthly tire maintenance. It is the
driver’s responsibility to maintain
correct tire pressures.
See Tire Pressure Monitor System
on page 10‑46.

Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit
This vehicle may come with a spare
tire and tire changing equipment or
a tire sealant and compressor kit.
The kit can be used to temporarily
seal small punctures in the tread
area of the tire. See Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit on page 10‑59.

If the vehicle came with a spare tire
and tire changing equipment, see If
a Tire Goes Flat on page 10‑57.

Engine Oil Life System
The engine oil life system calculates
engine oil life based on vehicle use
and displays the Code 82 DIC
message when it is necessary to
change the engine oil and filter.
Remember, the oil life display must
be reset after each oil change.
It will not reset itself. Also, be
careful not to reset the oil life
display accidentally at any time
other than when the oil has just
been changed. It cannot be reset
accurately until the next oil change.
To reset the engine oil life system
press the SET/CLR button while the
oil life display is active.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (21,1)

In Brief
Resetting the Oil Life System
1. Using the DIC MENU button and
thumbwheel, scroll until you
reach Remaining Oil Life on
the DIC.
2. Press the SET/CLR button to
reset the oil life at 100%. When
prompted, use the thumbwheel
to highlight YES or NO. Press
the SET/CLEAR button to
confirm.
Be careful not to reset the oil life
display accidentally at any time
other than after the oil is changed.
It cannot be reset accurately.
See Engine Oil Life System on
page 10‑12.

Hood Release

2. Go the front of the vehicle and
move the secondary hood
release lever to the right side of
the vehicle.
3. Lift the hood and release the
hood prop from its retainer,
located in front of the engine
compartment. Securely place the
hood prop into the slot on the
underside of the hood.
See Hood on page 10‑4.

Driving for Better Fuel
Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel
mileage. Here are some driving
tips to get the best fuel economy
possible.
.

Avoid fast starts and accelerate
smoothly.

Brake gradually and avoid
abrupt stops.

To open the hood:
1. Pull the hood release handle
inside the vehicle. It is located
on the lower left side of the
instrument panel.

1-21

Avoid idling the engine for long
periods of time.

When road and weather
conditions are appropriate, use
cruise control.

Always follow posted speed
limits or drive more slowly when
conditions require.

Keep vehicle tires properly
inflated.

Combine several trips into a
single trip.

Replace the vehicle's tires with
the same TPC Spec number
molded into the tire's sidewall
near the size.

Follow recommended scheduled
maintenance.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

1-22

Black plate (22,1)

In Brief

Roadside Assistance
Program
U.S.: 1-800-243-8872
TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438
Canada: 1-800-268-6800
As the owner of a new Chevrolet,
you are automatically enrolled in the
Roadside Assistance program.
See Roadside Assistance Program
on page 13‑5.
Roadside Assistance and OnStar
If you have an active OnStar
subscription, press the Q button
and the current GPS location will be
sent to an OnStar advisor who will
assess your problem, contact
Roadside Assistance, and relay
your exact location to get the help
you need.

Online Owner Center

OnStar®

The Online Owner Center is a
complimentary service that includes
online service reminders, vehicle
maintenance tips, online owner
manual, special privileges,
and more.

If equipped, this vehicle has a
comprehensive, in-vehicle system
that can connect to a live Advisor
for Emergency, Security, Navigation,
Connection, and Diagnostic
Services. See OnStar Overview on
page 14‑1.

Sign up today at:
U.S.: chevrolet.com (click on
“Owners,” then “Manage My
Chevrolet/Owners Login”)
Canada: chevroletowner.ca

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Keys, Doors, and
Windows

Doors

Interior Mirrors

Trunk (Sedan) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Liftgate (Hatchback) . . . . . . . . . 2-10

Vehicle Security
Keys and Locks
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation . . . . . . . . . . .
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . .
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Central Locking System . . . . . . .
Door Ajar Reminder . . . . . . . . . . .
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . .
Safety Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2-2
2-3
2-3
2-4
2-6
2-7
2-7
2-7
2-7
2-8

Vehicle Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti-theft Alarm System . . . . . .
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Immobilizer Operation . . . . . . . .

2-11
2-11
2-11
2-11

Exterior Mirrors
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2-1

Manual Rearview Mirror . . . . . . 2-14

Windows
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Windows . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2-14
2-14
2-15
2-16

Roof
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17

2-12
2-13
2-13
2-13
2-13

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-2

Black plate (2,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Keys and Locks
Keys

{ WARNING
Leaving children in a vehicle with
the ignition key is dangerous for
many reasons. Children or others
could be badly injured or even
killed. They could operate the
power windows or other controls
or even make the vehicle move.
The windows will function with the
keys in the ignition and children
could be seriously injured or killed
if caught in the path of a closing
window. Do not leave the keys in
a vehicle with children.

The key that is part of the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter can
be used for the ignition and all
locks.

Press the button on the RKE
transmitter to extend the key. Press
the button and the key blade to
retract the key.
See your dealer if a new key is
needed.
Notice: If the keys get locked in
the vehicle, it may have to be
damaged to get them out. Always
carry a spare key.
If you are locked out of the vehicle,
see Roadside Assistance Program
on page 13‑5.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2-3

Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System

Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System Operation

indicate locking; see “Remote
Lock Feedback” under Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑27.

See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑16 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.

The RKE transmitter will work up to
20 m (65 ft) away from the vehicle.

If any door is open when Q is
pressed, all doors lock. These
settings can be modified. See
“Unlocked Door Anti Lock Out”
under Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑27.

Other conditions can affect the
performance of the transmitter. See
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System on page 2‑3.

If there is a decrease in the RKE
operating range:
.

Check the distance. The
transmitter may be too far from
the vehicle.

Check the location. Other
vehicles or objects may be
blocking the signal.

Check the transmitter's battery.
See “Battery Replacement” later
in this section.

If the transmitter is still not
working correctly, see your
dealer or a qualified technician
for service.

Pressing Q may also arm the
theft-deterrent system. See
Anti-theft Alarm System on
page 2‑11.

RKE without Remote Start Shown
The following buttons are on the
transmitter:

Q (Lock):

Press to lock all doors.
The turn signal indicators may flash
and/or the horn may sound to

K (Unlock): Press to unlock the
driver door or all doors; see
“Remote Door Unlock” under
Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑27. The turn signal
indicators flash to indicate unlocking
has occurred. For more information
see “Remote Unlock Feedback”
under Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑27. Pressing K may also
disarm the theft-deterrent system.
See Anti-theft Alarm System on
page 2‑11.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-4

Black plate (4,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

V (Remote Trunk Release):
Press to open the trunk.

Programming Transmitters to
the Vehicle

7 (Vehicle Locator/Panic
Alarm): Press and release one
time to locate the vehicle. The
exterior lamps flash and the horn
chirps. Press and hold 7 for at least
two seconds to sound the panic
alarm. The horn sounds and the
turn signals flash until 7 is pressed
again, or the key is placed in the
ignition and turned to ON/RUN.

Only RKE transmitters programmed
to this vehicle will work. If a
transmitter is lost or stolen, a
replacement can be purchased and
programmed through your dealer.
When the replacement transmitter
is programmed to this vehicle, all
remaining transmitters must also be
reprogrammed. Any lost or stolen
transmitters will no longer work
once the new transmitter is
programmed. See your dealer to
have new transmitters programmed.

/ (Remote Vehicle Start):

For
vehicles with this feature, press Q
and then press and hold / within
five seconds to start the engine from
outside the vehicle using the RKE
transmitter. See Remote Vehicle
Start on page 2‑4.
The buttons on the keys are
disabled when there is a key in the
ignition.

Battery Replacement
The battery is not rechargeable. To
replace the battery:
1. Push the button on the
transmitter to extend the key.
2. Remove the battery cover by
prying with a finger.
3. Remove the old battery.

4. Insert the new battery, positive
side facing up. Replace with a
CR2032 or equivalent battery.
5. Snap the battery cover back on
to the transmitter.

Remote Vehicle Start
The vehicle may have this feature
that allows you to start the engine
from outside the vehicle.

/ (Remote Vehicle Start):
This button will be on the RKE
transmitter if the vehicle has remote
start.
The climate control will default to
the last used heating or cooling
mode. If the vehicle has heated
seats, they may come on during a
remote start. See Heated Front
Seats on page 3‑7.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (5,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows
Laws in some local communities
may restrict the use of remote
starters. For example, some laws
require a person using remote
start to have the vehicle in view.
Check local regulations for any
requirements.
Other conditions can affect the
performance of the transmitter. See
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System on page 2‑3.

When the engine starts, the parking
lamps will turn on and remain on as
long as the engine is running. The
doors will be locked and the climate
control system may come on.
The engine will continue to run for
10 minutes. Repeat the steps for a
10-minute time extension. Remote
start can be extended only once.
Insert the key and turn it to ON/RUN
before driving.

Starting the Vehicle

Extending Engine Run Time

To start the engine using the remote
start feature:

For a 10-minute extension, repeat
Steps 1–3 while the engine is still
running. The remote start can be
extended once.

1. Aim the RKE transmitter at the
vehicle.
2. Press and release

3. Immediately after completing
Step 2, press and hold / until
the turn signal lamps flash, or for
about two seconds if the vehicle
is not in view.

When the remote start is extended,
the second 10 minutes will start
immediately.
For example, if the engine has
been running for five minutes, and
10 minutes are added, the engine
will run for a total of 15 minutes.

2-5

A maximum of two remote starts,
or a single start with an extension,
are allowed between ignition cycles.
After this, the vehicle's ignition
switch must be turned to ON/RUN
and then back to LOCK/OFF using
the key, before the remote start
procedure can be used again.
Canceling a Remote Start
To cancel a remote start, do one of
the following:
.

Aim the RKE transmitter at the
vehicle and press and hold /
until the parking lamps turn off.

Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.

Turn the vehicle on and then off.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-6

Black plate (6,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Conditions in Which Remote Start
Will Not Work

Door Locks

{ WARNING

The remote vehicle start feature will
not operate if:
.

The key is in the ignition.

The hood is not closed.

The hazard warning flashers
are on.

The malfunction indicator lamp
is on.

The engine coolant temperature
is too high.

The oil pressure is low.

Two remote vehicle starts, or a
single remote start with an
extension, have already
been used.

The vehicle is not in P (Park).

WARNING (Continued)
injuries or even death from
heat stroke. Always lock the
vehicle whenever leaving it.

Unlocked doors can be
dangerous.
.

Passengers, especially
children, can easily open
the doors and fall out of a
moving vehicle. When a door
is locked, the handle will not
open it. The chance of being
thrown out of the vehicle in
a crash is increased if the
doors are not locked. So, all
passengers should wear
safety belts properly and the
doors should be locked
whenever the vehicle is
driven.
Young children who get into
unlocked vehicles may be
unable to get out. A child can
be overcome by extreme heat
and can suffer permanent
(Continued)

Outsiders can easily enter
through an unlocked door
when you slow down or stop
the vehicle. Locking the doors
can help prevent this from
happening.

To lock or unlock the doors from
outside the vehicle:
.

Use the key in the driver door to
lock all doors or unlock the
driver door only.

Press Q or K on the Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
See Remote Keyless Entry
(RKE) System Operation on
page 2‑3.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Central Locking System
This system allows for the doors
and liftgate/trunk to be locked and
unlocked from the RKE transmitter
or the central locking switch located
on the center stack.
The system can be programed. See
Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑27.

Door Ajar Reminder
To lock or unlock the doors from
inside the vehicle:
.

Press Q or K on the central
locking switch.

Pull the door handle. Pulling the
door handle again unlatches
the door.

Use the lock knob on the top of
the door panel.

If one of the doors, the trunk, or the
liftgate is not closed properly while
the ignition is on, the door ajar light
on the instrument panel comes on
and stays on until the doors are
closed.

2-7

Delayed Locking
Pressing Q on the central locking
switch or on the RKE transmitter
when this feature is on will delay
the locking of the doors until
five seconds after the last door is
closed. Three chimes will signal
that delayed locking is in use. See
Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑27.

Automatic Door Locks
The vehicle is programmed so that
when the doors are closed, the
ignition is on, and the shift lever is
moved out of P (Park) for automatic
transmissions, or when the vehicle
speed is above 13 km/h (8 mph) for
manual transmissions, the doors
and the trunk/liftgate will lock.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-8

Black plate (8,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

To unlock the doors and the trunk/
liftgate:

K on the center stack.

Press

For vehicles with an automatic
transmission, shift the
transmission into P (Park).

For vehicle with a manual
transmission, remove the key
from the ignition.

Safety Locks

Doors

The rear door safety locks prevent
passengers from opening the rear
doors from inside the vehicle.

Trunk (Sedan)

{ WARNING
Exhaust gases can enter the
vehicle if it is driven with the
liftgate, trunk/hatch open, or with
any objects that pass through
the seal between the body
and the trunk/hatch or liftgate.
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide (CO) which cannot be
seen or smelled. It can cause
unconsciousness and even death.

This feature can be programmed.
See Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑27.

Press { to activate the safety locks
on the rear doors. An indicator light
comes on when activated.
Press { again to deactivate the
safety locks.

If the vehicle must be driven with
the liftgate or trunk/hatch open:
.

Close all of the windows.

Fully open the air outlets on
or under the instrument
panel.
(Continued)

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

when securing items in the trunk
as it could damage the handle.
The emergency trunk release
handle is only intended to aid a
person trapped in a latched trunk,
enabling them to open the trunk
from the inside.

WARNING (Continued)
.

Adjust the climate control
system to a setting that
brings in only outside air and
set the fan speed to the
highest setting. See “Climate
Control Systems” in the
Index.

If the vehicle is equipped with
a power liftgate, disable the
power liftgate function.

For more information about
carbon monoxide, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑22.
To lock or unlock the trunk from the
outside, press Q or K on the RKE
transmitter. See Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) System Operation on
page 2‑3.
To lock or unlock the trunk from the
inside, press Q or K on the central
locking switch located on the center
stack.

2-9

To open the trunk from outside of
the vehicle:
.

Press K on the RKE transmitter,
then use the touch pad.

Press V on the
RKE transmitter.

See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation on page 2‑3.

Emergency Trunk Release
Handle
Notice: Do not use the
emergency trunk release handle
as a tie-down or anchor point

There is a glow-in-the-dark
emergency trunk release handle on
the underside of the trunk lid. This
handle will glow following exposure
to light. Pull the release handle
down to open the trunk from the
inside.

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2-10

Black plate (10,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Liftgate (Hatchback)

Close all of the windows.

Fully open the air outlets on
or under the instrument
panel.
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
.

Adjust the climate control
system to a setting that
brings in only outside air
and set the fan speed to the
highest setting. See “Climate
Control Systems” in the
Index.

If the vehicle is equipped with
a power liftgate, disable the
power liftgate function.

For more information about
carbon monoxide, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑22.
To lock or unlock the liftgate from
outside the vehicle, press Q or K
on the RKE transmitter. See Remote
Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operation on page 2‑3.
To lock or unlock the liftgate from
the inside, press Q or K on the
central locking switch located on the
center stack.

To open the liftgate from outside of
the vehicle:
.

Press K on the RKE transmitter,
then use the touch pad.

Press V on the
RKE transmitter.

See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation on page 2‑3.
When closing the liftgate, close from
the center to ensure that it fully
latches.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (11,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Immobilizer Operation

Vehicle Security

Disarming the System

This vehicle has theft-deterrent
features; however, they do not make
it impossible to steal.

To disarm the system press
the RKE transmitter.

Anti-theft Alarm System

If there is an attempt to open the
doors, trunk, liftgate, or hood
without first pressing K on the
transmitter or unlocking the driver
door with the key, the system alarm
will be activated. The exterior lamps
will flash and the horn will sound for
about 30 seconds.

This vehicle has an anti-theft alarm
system.

Arming the System
To arm the system, close all of the
windows and doors and then either:

Q on the RKE transmitter.

Press

Lock the vehicle using the key in
the driver door.

The alarm arms after about
30 seconds.
The security light, located in the
center of the instrument panel, will
flash slowly.
Press Q again and the system arms
immediately.

2-11

K on

Turning off the System Alarm

To turn off the system alarm
press Q or K on the RKE
transmitter.

Immobilizer
See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑16 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.

This vehicle has a passive
theft-deterrent system.
The system does not have to be
manually armed or disarmed.
The vehicle is automatically
immobilized when the key is
removed from the ignition.
The system is automatically
disarmed when the vehicle is
started with the correct key. The key
uses a transponder that matches an
immobilizer control unit in the
vehicle and automatically disarms
the system. Only an authorized key
starts the vehicle. The vehicle may
not start if the key is damaged.

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2-12

Black plate (12,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

The security light, located in the
instrument panel cluster, comes on
if there is a problem with arming or
disarming the theft-deterrent
system.
When trying to start the vehicle, the
security light comes on briefly when
the ignition is turned on.
If the engine does not start and the
security light stays on, there is a
problem with the system. Turn the
ignition off and try again.

If the engine still does not start, and
the key appears to be undamaged
or the light continues to stay on, try
another ignition key. If the engine
does not start with the other key, the
vehicle needs service. If the vehicle
does start, the first key may be
damaged. See your dealer who can
service the theft-deterrent system
and have a new key made.
Do not leave the key or device
that disarms or deactivates the
theft-deterrent system in the vehicle.

Exterior Mirrors
Convex Mirrors

{ WARNING
A convex mirror can make things,
like other vehicles, look farther
away than they really are. If you
cut too sharply into the right lane,
you could hit a vehicle on the
right. Check the inside mirror or
glance over your shoulder before
changing lanes.
The passenger side mirror is convex
shaped. A convex mirror's surface is
curved so more can be seen from
the driver seat.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (13,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Manual Mirrors

Power Mirrors

2-13

Folding Mirrors
Manual Folding Mirrors
The vehicle has manual folding
mirrors. These mirrors can be folded
inward to prevent damage when
going through an automatic car
wash. To fold, pull the mirror toward
the vehicle. Push the mirror outward
to return it to the original position.

Heated Mirrors
For vehicles with this feature:
Move the control up, down, or side
to side to adjust the mirror.

For vehicles with power outside
mirrors:

See Folding Mirrors on page 2‑13.

1. Select the mirror by moving the
selector switch to L for the driver
side or R for the passenger side.
2. Use the control knob to move
the mirror in the desired
direction.
See Folding Mirrors on page 2‑13.

1 (Rear Window Defogger):
Press to heat the mirrors. See
“Rear Window and Outside Mirror
Defogger” under Climate Control
Systems on page 8‑1.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-14

Black plate (14,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Interior Mirrors
Manual Rearview Mirror
Hold the inside rearview mirror in
the center to move it for a clearer
view behind your vehicle. Adjust the
mirror to avoid glare from the
headlamps behind you. Push the
tab forward for daytime use and pull
it for nighttime use.
Vehicles with OnStar® have three
control buttons at the bottom of the
mirror. See your dealer for more
information about OnStar and how
to subscribe to it. See OnStar
Overview on page 14‑1.

Windows

{ WARNING
Leaving children, helpless adults,
or pets in a vehicle with the
windows closed is dangerous.
They can be overcome by
the extreme heat and suffer
permanent injuries or even death
from heat stroke. Never leave a
child, a helpless adult, or a pet
alone in a vehicle, especially with
the windows closed in warm or
hot weather.

The vehicle aerodynamics are
designed to improve fuel economy
performance. This may result in a
pulsing sound when a window is
partially open. To reduce the sound,
open another window or the sunroof
(if equipped).

Manual Windows
If equipped, use the window crank
to open and close each window.
The rear windows do not open fully.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (15,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Power Windows

Express Window Operation

{ WARNING
Leaving children in a vehicle with
the keys is dangerous for many
reasons. Children or others could
be badly injured or even killed.
They could operate the power
windows or other controls or even
make the vehicle move. The
windows will function and they
could be seriously injured or killed
if caught in the path of a closing
window. Do not leave keys in a
vehicle with children.
When there are children in the
rear seat use the window lockout
button to prevent unintentional
operation of the windows.

2-15

If equipped, push the switch down
to open the window. Pull the front of
the switch up to close it.
The switches work when the
vehicle is in ON/RUN or ACC/
ACCESSORY, or when Retained
Accessory Power (RAP) is active.
See Retained Accessory Power
(RAP) on page 9‑19.

Windows with an express-down or
express-up feature allow the window
to be lowered or raised without
holding the switch. The driver
window has express-down and
express-up. Pull a window switch up
or push it down all the way, release
it, and the window goes up or down
automatically. Stop the window by
pushing or pulling the switch in the
same direction a second time or
briefly operating the switch to the
first detent in either direction.

Safety Function
If any object is in the path of the
window when the express-up
feature is active, the window will
stop and auto-reverse to a preset
position. Weather conditions may
cause the window to auto-reverse.
The window switch may be held up
to the second position to close the
window. The window will return
to normal operation once the
obstruction or condition is removed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-16

Black plate (16,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Safety Function Override

Window Lockout

If the battery on the vehicle has
been recharged or disconnected,
or is not working, the windows will
need to be reprogrammed for the
express-up feature to work. Before
reprogramming, replace or recharge
the vehicle's battery.

To block out glare, swing down the
sun visors. You can also remove
them from the center mount and
swing them to the side.

Visor Vanity Mirror
Vanity mirrors are on the back of the
sun visors. Swing down the sun
visor and open the cover.

To program the driver window:
1. With the ignition in ACC/
ACCESSORY or ON/RUN,
or when RAP is active, close all
doors.
2. Press and hold the power
window switch until the window
is fully open.

This feature prevents the rear
passenger windows from operating,
except from the driver position.

3. Pull the power window switch up
until the window is fully closed.

Press o to disable the rear window
switches.

4. Continue holding the switch up
for approximately two seconds
after the window is completely
closed.

Press o again to return to normal
window operation.

The window is now reprogrammed.

Sun Visors

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (17,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

Roof
Sunroof

Open/Close: To open the sunroof,
press and hold the rear of the
switch. To close the sunroof, press
and hold the front of the switch.
Vent: Press and hold the front of
the switch to vent the sunroof.
Manually close the sunshade.
The sunroof will not operate if the
vehicle has an electrical failure.

On vehicles with this feature, the
sunroof only operates when the
ignition is turned to ON/RUN or
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is
active.

Dirt and debris may collect on the
sunroof seal or in the track. This
could cause an issue with sunroof
operation or noise. It could also plug
the water drainage system.

2-17

Periodically open the sunroof and
remove any obstacles or loose
debris. Wipe the sunroof seal and
roof sealing area using a clean
cloth, mild soap, and water. Do not
remove grease from the sunroof.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

2-18

Black plate (18,1)

Keys, Doors, and Windows

2 NOTES

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

Seats and Restraints

Seats and
Restraints

Safety System Check . . . . . . . . 3-17
Safety Belt Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
Replacing Safety Belt System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-18

Airbag System

Head Restraints
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

Front Seats
Seat Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . .
Front Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . .

3-4
3-5
3-6
3-7

Rear Seats
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Safety Belts
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
Safety Belt Use During
Pregnancy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Safety Belt Extender . . . . . . . . . 3-17

Airbag System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . 3-21
When Should an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
How Does an Airbag
Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
What Will You See after an
Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-24
Passenger Sensing
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-26
Servicing the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30
Adding Equipment to the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle . . . 3-30
Airbag System Check . . . . . . . . 3-31
Replacing Airbag System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . 3-31

3-1

Child Restraints
Older Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Infants and Young
Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child Restraint Systems . . . . .
Where to Put the Restraint . . .
Lower Anchors and Tethers
for Children (LATCH
System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing LATCH System
Parts After a Crash . . . . . . . . .
Securing Child Restraints
(Rear Seat) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Securing Child Restraints
(Front Outboard
Passenger Seat) . . . . . . . . . . .

3-32
3-34
3-36
3-38
3-39
3-45
3-45
3-48

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-2

Black plate (2,1)

Seats and Restraints

Head Restraints

{ WARNING
With head restraints that are not
installed and adjusted properly,
there is a greater chance that
occupants will suffer a neck/
spinal injury in a crash. Do not
drive until the head restraints for
all occupants are installed and
adjusted properly.

Front Seats
The front seats have adjustable
head restraints in the outboard
seating positions.

Adjust the head restraint so that the
top of the restraint is at the same
height as the top of the occupant's
head. This position reduces the
chances of a neck injury in a crash.

The height of the head restraint can
be adjusted. Pull the head restraint
up to raise it. Try to move the head
restraint to make sure that it is
locked in place.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

Seats and Restraints

3-3

To lower the head restraint, press
the button, located on the top of the
seatback, and push the head
restraint down. Try to move the
head restraint after the button is
released to make sure that it is
locked in place.

The front seat outboard head
restraints are not designed to be
removed.

Rear outboard head restraints are
not designed to be removed.

Rear Seats
The vehicle's rear seats have
adjustable head restraints in the
outboard seating positions.

The height of the head restraint can
be adjusted. Pull the head restraint
up to raise it. Try to move the head
restraint to make sure that it is
locked in place.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-4

Black plate (4,1)

Seats and Restraints
Seat Height Adjuster

Front Seats
Seat Adjustment
Manual Seats

{ WARNING
You can lose control of the
vehicle if you try to adjust a driver
seat while the vehicle is moving.
The sudden movement could
startle and confuse you, or make
you push a pedal when you do
not want to. Adjust the driver seat
only when the vehicle is not
moving.

To adjust a manual seat:
1. Pull the handle at the front of
the seat.
2. Slide the seat to the desired
position and release the handle.
3. Try to move the seat back and
forth to be sure it is locked in
place.

If available, move the lever up or
down to manually raise or lower
the seat.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (5,1)

Seats and Restraints

Reclining Seatbacks

3-5

2. Move the seatback to the
desired position, and then
release the lever to lock the
seatback in place.

{ WARNING
If either seatback is not locked, it
could move forward in a sudden
stop or crash. That could cause
injury to the person sitting there.
Always push and pull on the
seatbacks to be sure they are
locked.

3. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked in place.
To return the seatback to the upright
position:

To recline a manual seatback:
1. Lift the lever.
If necessary, move the safety
belt out of the way to access the
lever.

1. Lift the lever fully without
applying pressure to the
seatback, and the seatback will
return to the upright position.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-6

Black plate (6,1)

Seats and Restraints

2. Push and pull on the seatback to
make sure it is locked.

{ WARNING
Sitting in a reclined position when
the vehicle is in motion can be
dangerous. Even when buckled
up, the safety belts cannot do
their job.

WARNING (Continued)
For proper protection when the
vehicle is in motion, have the
seatback upright. Then sit well
back in the seat and wear the
safety belt properly.

The shoulder belt will not be
against your body. Instead, it will
be in front of you. In a crash, you
could go into it, receiving neck or
other injuries.
The lap belt could go up over
your abdomen. The belt forces
would be there, not at your pelvic
bones. This could cause serious
internal injuries.
(Continued)

Front Seat Armrest

There is an armrest on the inboard
side of the driver seat. To raise or
lower the armrest, push up or pull
down on the armrest.

Do not have a seatback reclined if
the vehicle is moving.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

Seats and Restraints

Heated Front Seats

Remote Start Heated Seats
When it is cold outside, the
heated seats can be turned on
automatically during a remote
vehicle start. The heated seats will
be canceled when the ignition is
turned on. Press the control to use
the heated seats after the vehicle is
started.

{ WARNING
If you cannot feel temperature
change or pain to the skin, the
seat heater may cause burns
even at low temperatures. To
reduce the risk of burns, people
with such a condition should use
care when using the seat heater,
especially for long periods of
time. Do not place anything on
the seat that insulates against
heat, such as a blanket, cushion,
cover, or similar item. This
may cause the seat heater to
overheat. An overheated seat
heater may cause a burn or may
damage the seat.

3-7

The heated seat indicator lights do
not turn on during a remote start.
On vehicles with heated front seats,
the controls are on the climate
control system. To operate, the
engine must be running.
Press M or L to heat the driver or
passenger seat. The indicator light
on the control turns on when this
feature is on. Press the control
again to turn this feature off.
The passenger seat may take
longer to heat up.

The temperature performance of an
unoccupied seat may be reduced.
This is normal.
See Remote Vehicle Start on
page 2‑4.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-8

Black plate (8,1)

Seats and Restraints

Rear Seats

To fold the seatback down:

Folding the Seatback
Either side of the seatback can be
folded down for more cargo space.
Fold a seatback only when the
vehicle is not moving.
Notice: Folding a rear seat with
the safety belts still fastened may
cause damage to the seat or the
safety belts. Always unbuckle the
safety belts and return them to
their normal stowed position
before folding a rear seat.

Sedan Shown, Hatchback Similar
1. Make sure the safety belt is in
the retainer hook.

2. Reach under the belt and pull
the lever on top of the seatback
to unlock the seatback.
A tab near the seatback lever
raises when the seatback is
unlocked.
3. Fold the seatback down.
Repeat Steps 1–3 for the other
seatback, if desired.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

Seats and Restraints
Raising the Seatback

{ WARNING
A safety belt that is improperly
routed, not properly attached,
or twisted will not provide the
protection needed in a crash. The
person wearing the belt could be
seriously injured. After raising the
rear seatback, always check to be
sure that the safety belts are
properly routed and attached, and
are not twisted.
To raise a seatback:
1. Lift the seatback up and push
it rearward to lock it in place.
Make sure the safety belt is in
the retainer hook and is not
twisted or caught in the
seatback.

3-9

A tab near the seatback lever
retracts when the seatback is
locked in place.
The center rear safety belt
may lock when you raise the
seatback. If this happens, let the
belt go back all the way and
start again.
2. Push and pull the top of the
seatback to be sure it is locked
into position.
3. Repeat Steps 1 and 2 for the
other seatback, if necessary.
When the seat is not in use, it
should be kept in the upright, locked
position.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-10

Black plate (10,1)

Seats and Restraints

Safety Belts
This section of the manual
describes how to use safety belts
properly. It also describes some
things not to do with safety belts.

{ WARNING
Do not let anyone ride where
a safety belt cannot be worn
properly. In a crash, if you or your
passenger(s) are not wearing
safety belts, injuries can be much
worse than if you are wearing
safety belts. You can be seriously
injured or killed by hitting things
inside the vehicle harder or by
being ejected from the vehicle.
In addition, anyone who is not
buckled up can strike other
passengers in the vehicle.
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)

Why Safety Belts Work

It is extremely dangerous to
ride in a cargo area, inside or
outside of a vehicle. In a collision,
passengers riding in these areas
are more likely to be seriously
injured or killed. Do not allow
passengers to ride in any area of
the vehicle that is not equipped
with seats and safety belts.
Always wear a safety belt, and
check that all passenger(s) are
restrained properly too.
This vehicle has indicators as a
reminder to buckle the safety belts.
See Safety Belt Reminders on
page 5‑10.

When riding in a vehicle, you travel
as fast as the vehicle does. If the
vehicle stops suddenly, you keep
going until something stops you.
It could be the windshield, the
instrument panel, or the safety belts!

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (11,1)

Seats and Restraints
When you wear a safety belt, you
and the vehicle slow down together.
There is more time to stop because
you stop over a longer distance and,
when worn properly, your strongest
bones take the forces from the
safety belts. That is why wearing
safety belts makes such good
sense.

Questions and Answers About
Safety Belts
Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle
after a crash if I am wearing a
safety belt?
A: You could be — whether you are
wearing a safety belt or not.
Your chance of being conscious
during and after a crash, so you
can unbuckle and get out, is
much greater if you are belted.

3-11

Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why
should I have to wear safety
belts?

How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly

A: Airbags are supplemental
systems only; so they work with
safety belts — not instead of
them. Whether or not an airbag
is provided, all occupants still
have to buckle up to get the
most protection.
Also, in nearly all states and in
all Canadian provinces, the law
requires wearing safety belts.

This section is only for people of
adult size.
There are special things to know
about safety belts and children. And
there are different rules for smaller
children and infants. If a child will be
riding in the vehicle, see Older
Children on page 3‑32 or Infants
and Young Children on page 3‑34.
Follow those rules for everyone's
protection.
It is very important for all occupants
to buckle up. Statistics show that
unbelted people are hurt more often
in crashes than those who are
wearing safety belts.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-12

Black plate (12,1)

Seats and Restraints

There are important things to know
about wearing a safety belt properly.

would apply force on your
abdomen. This could cause
serious or even fatal injuries.
.

Wear the shoulder belt over the
shoulder and across the chest.
These parts of the body are best
able to take belt restraining
forces. The shoulder belt locks if
there is a sudden stop or crash.

{ WARNING
.

Sit up straight and always keep
your feet on the floor in front
of you.
Always use the correct buckle
for your seating position.
Wear the lap part of the belt
low and snug on the hips, just
touching the thighs. In a crash,
this applies force to the strong
pelvic bones and you would be
less likely to slide under the lap
belt. If you slid under it, the belt

Lap-Shoulder Belt
All seating positions in the vehicle
have a lap-shoulder belt.
The following instructions explain
how to wear a lap-shoulder belt
properly.
1. Adjust the seat, if the seat is
adjustable, so you can sit up
straight. To see how, see “Seats”
in the Index.

You can be seriously injured,
or even killed, by not wearing
your safety belt properly.
.

Never allow the lap or
shoulder belt to become
loose or twisted.

Never wear the shoulder belt
under both arms or behind
your back.

Never route the lap or
shoulder belt over an
armrest.

2. Pick up the latch plate and pull
the belt across you. Do not let it
get twisted.

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The lap-shoulder belt may lock if
you pull the belt across you very
quickly. If this happens, let the
belt go back slightly to unlock it.
Then pull the belt across you
more slowly.
If the shoulder portion of a
passenger belt is pulled out all
the way, the child restraint
locking feature may be engaged.
If this happens, let the belt go
back all the way and start again.

3. Push the latch plate into the
buckle until it clicks.

3-13

If the latch plate will not go fully
into the buckle, check if the
correct buckle is being used.
Pull up on the latch plate to
make sure it is secure. If the belt
is not long enough, see Safety
Belt Extender on page 3‑17.
Position the release button on
the buckle so that the safety belt
could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.
4. If equipped with a shoulder belt
height adjuster, move it to the
height that is right for you. See
“Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster”
in this section for instructions
on use and important safety
information.

5. To make the lap part tight, pull
up on the shoulder belt.
It may be necessary to pull
stitching on the safety belt
through the latch plate to fully
tighten the lap belt on smaller
occupants.

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Adjust the height so the shoulder
portion of the belt is on the shoulder
and not falling off of it. The belt
should be close to, but not
contacting, the neck. Improper
shoulder belt height adjustment
could reduce the effectiveness of
the safety belt in a crash. See How
to Wear Safety Belts Properly on
page 3‑11.

To unlatch the belt, push the button
on the buckle. The belt should
return to its stowed position.
Before a door is closed, be sure the
belt is out of the way. If a door is
slammed against a safety belt,
damage can occur to both the
safety belt and the vehicle.

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster
The vehicle has a shoulder belt
height adjuster for the driver and
right front passenger seating
positions.

To move it down, press the release
button (A) and move the height
adjuster to the desired position.

After the adjuster is set to the
desired position, try to move it down
without pressing the release button
to make sure it has locked into
position.

Safety Belt Pretensioners
This vehicle may have safety belt
pretensioners for front outboard
occupants. Although the safety belt
pretensioners cannot be seen, they
are part of the safety belt assembly.
They can help tighten the safety
belts during the early stages of a
moderate to severe frontal, near
frontal, side, or rear crash if the
threshold conditions for pretensioner
activation are met.
Pretensioners, if equipped, work
only once. If the pretensioners
activate in a crash, the
pretensioners and probably other
new parts of the vehicle's safety belt
system will need to be replaced.
See Replacing Safety Belt System
Parts after a Crash on page 3‑18.

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Rear Safety Belt Comfort
Guides
Rear safety belt comfort guides
may provide added safety belt
comfort for older children who have
outgrown booster seats and for
some adults. When installed on a
shoulder belt, the comfort guide
positions the shoulder belt away
from the neck and head.
Safety belt comfort guides are
available through your dealer.

3-15

2. Attach the adjustable comfort
guide to the anchor loop by
threading the hook through
the loop.

To install the adjustable comfort
guide to the seatback and the
safety belt:

3. Place the guide over the belt,
and insert the two edges of the
belt into the slots of the guide.

1. Locate the anchor loop on the
rear outboard seatback, near
the top.

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6. Adjust the guide so the shoulder
portion of the belt is on the
shoulder and not falling off of it.
The belt should be close to,
but not contacting, the neck.
Improper comfort guide
adjustment could reduce the
effectiveness of the safety belt in
a crash.

{ WARNING
4. Be sure that the belt is not
twisted and it lies flat. The
elastic cord must be under the
belt and the guide on top.
5. The elastic cord on the comfort
guide is adjustable. You can
make it longer or shorter by
squeezing both ends of the
plastic adjuster and pulling on
the elastic cord or the guide.

A safety belt that is not properly
worn may not provide the
protection needed in a crash. The
person wearing the belt could be
seriously injured. The shoulder
belt should go over the shoulder
and across the chest. These parts
of the body are best able to take
belt restraining forces.

7. Buckle and position the safety
belt as described previously in
this section. Make sure that
the shoulder belt crosses the
shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort
guide, squeeze the belt edges
together so that the safety belt
can be removed from the guide.
Un-hook the guide from the loop
on the seat. Store the guide in a
convenient place like the glove box
for the next time it is needed.

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Safety Belt Use During
Pregnancy
Safety belts work for everyone,
including pregnant women. Like all
occupants, they are more likely to
be seriously injured if they do not
wear safety belts.

The best way to protect the fetus is
to protect the mother. When a safety
belt is worn properly, it is more likely
that the fetus will not be hurt in a
crash. For pregnant women, as for
anyone, the key to making safety
belts effective is wearing them
properly.

Safety Belt Extender
If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten
around you, you should use it.

A pregnant woman should wear a
lap-shoulder belt, and the lap
portion should be worn as low as
possible, below the rounding,
throughout the pregnancy.

But if a safety belt is not long
enough, your dealer will order you
an extender. When you go in to
order it, take the heaviest coat you
will wear, so the extender will be
long enough for you. To help avoid
personal injury, do not let someone
else use it, and use it only for the
seat it is made to fit. The extender
has been designed for adults. Never
use it for securing child seats. To
wear it, attach it to the regular safety
belt. For more information, see the
instruction sheet that comes with
the extender.

3-17

Safety System Check
Now and then, check that the safety
belt reminder light, safety belts,
buckles, latch plates, retractors, and
anchorages are all working properly.
Look for any other loose or
damaged safety belt system parts
that might keep a safety belt system
from doing its job. See your dealer
to have it repaired. Torn or frayed
safety belts may not protect you in
a crash. They can rip apart under
impact forces. If a belt is torn or
frayed, get a new one right away.
Make sure the safety belt reminder
light is working. See Safety Belt
Reminders on page 5‑10.
Keep safety belts clean and dry.
See Safety Belt Care on page 3‑18.

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Safety Belt Care
Keep belts clean and dry.

{ WARNING
Do not bleach or dye safety belts.
It may severely weaken them. In
a crash, they might not be able to
provide adequate protection.
Clean safety belts only with mild
soap and lukewarm water.

Replacing Safety Belt
System Parts after a
Crash

{ WARNING
A crash can damage the safety
belt system in the vehicle.
A damaged safety belt system
may not properly protect the
person using it, resulting in
serious injury or even death in a
crash. To help make sure the
safety belt systems are working
properly after a crash, have them
inspected and any necessary
replacements made as soon as
possible.

After a minor crash, replacement of
safety belts may not be necessary.
But the safety belt assemblies that
were used during any crash may
have been stressed or damaged.
See your dealer to have the safety
belt assemblies inspected or
replaced.
New parts and repairs may be
necessary even if the safety belt
system was not being used at the
time of the crash.
Have the safety belt pretensioners,
if equipped, checked if the vehicle
has been in a crash, or if the airbag
readiness light stays on after you
start the vehicle or while you are
driving. See Airbag Readiness Light
on page 5‑11.

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Airbag System

The vehicle has the following
airbags except where noted below:
.

A frontal airbag for the driver.

A frontal airbag for the front
outboard passenger.

A knee airbag for the driver.

A knee airbag for the front
outboard passenger.

A roof-rail airbag for the front
outboard passenger and the
passenger seated directly
behind the front outboard
passenger.

The vehicle may have the following
airbags on models sold in Canada:
.

A knee airbag for the driver.

A knee airbag for the front
outboard passenger.

A seat-mounted side impact
airbag for the driver.

Seat-mounted side impact
airbags for the second row
outboard passengers.

A seat-mounted side impact
airbag for the front outboard
passenger.

All vehicle airbags have the word
AIRBAG on the trim or on a label
near the deployment opening.

Seat-mounted side impact
airbags for the second row
outboard passengers.

A roof-rail airbag for the driver
and the passenger seated
directly behind the driver.

For frontal airbags, the word
AIRBAG is on the center of the
steering wheel for the driver and on
the instrument panel for the front
outboard passenger.

3-19

For knee airbags, the word AIRBAG
is on the lower part of the
instrument panel.
For seat-mounted side impact
airbags, the word AIRBAG is on the
side of the seatback closest to
the door.
For roof-rail airbags, the word
AIRBAG is on the ceiling or trim.
Airbags are designed to supplement
the protection provided by safety
belts. Even though today's airbags
are also designed to help reduce
the risk of injury from the force of an
inflating bag, all airbags must inflate
very quickly to do their job.

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Here are the most important things
to know about the airbag system:

{ WARNING
You can be severely injured or
killed in a crash if you are not
wearing your safety belt, even
with airbags. Airbags are
designed to work with safety
belts, not replace them. Also,
airbags are not designed to inflate
in every crash. In some crashes
safety belts are the only restraint.
See When Should an Airbag
Inflate? on page 3‑23.
Wearing your safety belt during a
crash helps reduce the chance of
hitting things inside the vehicle or
being ejected from it. Airbags are
“supplemental restraints” to the
safety belts. Everyone in the
vehicle should wear a safety belt
properly, whether or not there is
an airbag for that person.

{ WARNING

Because airbags inflate with great
force and faster than the blink
of an eye, anyone who is up
against, or very close to any
airbag when it inflates can be
seriously injured or killed. Do not
sit unnecessarily close to any
airbag, as you would be if sitting
on the edge of the seat or leaning
forward. Safety belts help keep
you in position before and during
a crash. Always wear a safety
belt, even with airbags. The driver
should sit as far back as possible
while still maintaining control of
the vehicle.

Children who are up against,
or very close to, any airbag
when it inflates can be seriously
injured or killed. Airbags plus
lap-shoulder belts offer protection
for adults and older children, but
not for young children and infants.
Neither the vehicle's safety belt
system nor its airbag system is
designed for them. Young
children and infants need the
protection that a child restraint
system can provide. Always
secure children properly in the
vehicle. To read how, see Older
Children on page 3‑32 or Infants
and Young Children on
page 3‑34.

Occupants should not lean on or
sleep against the door or side
windows in seating positions with
seat-mounted side impact airbags
and/or roof-rail airbags.

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3-21

Where Are the Airbags?

There is an airbag readiness light
on the instrument panel cluster,
which shows the airbag symbol. The
system checks the airbag electrical
system for malfunctions. The light
tells you if there is an electrical
problem. See Airbag Readiness
Light on page 5‑11 for more
information.

The driver frontal airbag is in the
center of the steering wheel.
The front outboard passenger
frontal airbag is in the passenger
side instrument panel.

The driver knee airbag, if equipped,
is below the steering column. The
front outboard passenger knee
airbag, if equipped, is below the
glove box.

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{ WARNING

Driver Side Shown, Passenger
Side Similar
The seat-mounted side impact
airbags for the driver and front
outboard passenger are in the side
of the seatbacks closest to the door.
The roof-rail airbags for the driver,
right front passenger, and second
row outboard passengers are in the
ceiling above the side windows.

Rear Seat Driver Side Shown,
Passenger Side Similar
If the vehicle has second row
seat‐mounted side impact airbags,
they are in the sides of the rear
seatback closest to the door.

If something is between an
occupant and an airbag, the
airbag might not inflate properly
or it might force the object into
that person causing severe injury
or even death. The path of an
inflating airbag must be kept
clear. Do not put anything
between an occupant and an
airbag, and do not attach or put
anything on the steering wheel
hub or on or near any other
airbag covering.
Do not use seat accessories that
block the inflation path of a
seat-mounted side impact airbag.
Never secure anything to the roof
of a vehicle with roof-rail airbags
by routing a rope or tie‐down
through any door or window
opening. If you do, the path of an
inflating roof-rail airbag will be
blocked.

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3-23

When Should an Airbag
Inflate?

whether the object is fixed or
moving, rigid or deformable, narrow
or wide.

inflate at a level less than full
deployment. For more severe frontal
impacts, full deployment occurs.

Frontal airbags are designed to
inflate in moderate to severe frontal
or near frontal crashes to help
reduce the potential for severe
injuries, mainly to the driver's or
front outboard passenger's head
and chest. However, they are only
designed to inflate if the impact
exceeds a predetermined
deployment threshold. Deployment
thresholds are used to predict how
severe a crash is likely to be in time
for the airbags to inflate and help
restrain the occupants.

Thresholds can also vary with
specific vehicle design.

The vehicle has seat-mounted side
impact airbags for the driver and
front passenger. The vehicle may
have seat-mounted side impact
airbags for the second row outboard
passengers. The vehicle has
roof-rail airbags. See Airbag System
on page 3‑19. Seat-mounted side
impact airbags, if equipped, and
roof-rail airbags are intended to
inflate in moderate to severe side
crashes depending on the location
of the impact. In addition, these
roof‐rail airbags are intended to
inflate during a rollover or in a
severe frontal impact. Seat-mounted
side impact airbags, if equipped,
and roof-rail airbags will inflate if the
crash severity is above the system's
designed threshold level. The
threshold level can vary with
specific vehicle design.

Whether the frontal airbags will or
should inflate is not based primarily
on how fast the vehicle is traveling.
It depends on what is hit, the
direction of the impact, and how
quickly the vehicle slows down.
Frontal airbags may inflate at
different crash speeds depending on
whether the vehicle hits an object
straight on or at an angle, and

Frontal airbags are not intended to
inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear
impacts, or in many side impacts.
In addition, the vehicle has
dual-stage frontal airbags.
Dual-stage airbags adjust the
restraint according to crash severity.
Frontal knee airbags, if equipped,
are designed to inflate in
moderate to severe frontal or near
frontal impacts that exceed a
predetermined deployment
threshold.
The vehicle has electronic frontal
sensors, which help the sensing
system distinguish between a
moderate frontal impact and a more
severe frontal impact. For moderate
frontal impacts, dual-stage airbags

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Roof‐rail airbags are not
intended to inflate in rear impacts.
A seat-mounted side impact airbag,
if equipped, is intended to inflate on
the side of the vehicle that is struck.
Both roof‐rail airbags will inflate
when either side of the vehicle is
struck or if the sensing system
predicts that the vehicle is about to
roll over on its side, or in a severe
frontal impact.
In any particular crash, no one can
say whether an airbag should have
inflated simply because of the
vehicle damage or repair costs.

What Makes an Airbag
Inflate?
In a deployment event, the sensing
system sends an electrical signal
triggering a release of gas from the
inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the
airbag causing the bag to break out
of the cover. The inflator, the airbag,
and related hardware are all part of
the airbag module.

For airbag location, see Where Are
the Airbags? on page 3‑21.

How Does an Airbag
Restrain?
In moderate to severe frontal or
near frontal collisions, even belted
occupants can contact the steering
wheel or the instrument panel. In
moderate to severe side collisions,
even belted occupants can contact
the inside of the vehicle.
Airbags supplement the protection
provided by safety belts by
distributing the force of the
impact more evenly over the
occupant's body.
Rollover capable roof‐rail airbags
are designed to help contain the
head and chest of occupants in the
outboard seating positions in the
first and second rows. The rollover
capable roof‐rail airbags are
designed to help reduce the risk of
full or partial ejection in rollover
events, although no system can
prevent all such ejections.

But airbags would not help in
many types of collisions, primarily
because the occupant's motion is
not toward those airbags. See When
Should an Airbag Inflate? on
page 3‑23 for more information.
Airbags should never be regarded
as anything more than a supplement
to safety belts.

What Will You See after
an Airbag Inflates?
After the frontal airbags and
seat-mounted side impact airbags
inflate, they quickly deflate, so
quickly that some people may not
even realize an airbag inflated.
Roof-rail airbags may still be at least
partially inflated for some time after
they inflate. Some components of
the airbag module may be hot for
several minutes. For location of the
airbags, see Where Are the
Airbags? on page 3‑21.
The parts of the airbag that come
into contact with you may be warm,
but not too hot to touch. There may

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be some smoke and dust coming
from the vents in the deflated
airbags. Airbag inflation does not
prevent the driver from seeing out of
the windshield or being able to steer
the vehicle, nor does it prevent
people from leaving the vehicle.

{ WARNING
When an airbag inflates, there
may be dust in the air. This dust
could cause breathing problems
for people with a history of
asthma or other breathing trouble.
To avoid this, everyone in the
vehicle should get out as soon as
it is safe to do so. If you have
breathing problems but cannot
get out of the vehicle after an
airbag inflates, then get fresh air
by opening a window or a door.
If you experience breathing
problems following an airbag
deployment, you should seek
medical attention.

The vehicle has a feature that may
automatically unlock the doors, turn
on the interior lamps, turn on the
hazard warning flashers, and shut
off the fuel system after the airbags
inflate. You can lock the doors, turn
off the interior lamps, and turn off
the hazard warning flashers by
using the controls for those
features.

In many crashes severe enough to
inflate the airbag, windshields are
broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may
also occur from the front outboard
passenger airbag.
.

Airbags are designed to inflate
only once. After an airbag
inflates, you will need some new
parts for the airbag system.
If you do not get them, the
airbag system will not be there
to help protect you in another
crash. A new system will include
airbag modules and possibly
other parts. The service manual
for the vehicle covers the need
to replace other parts.

The vehicle has a crash sensing
and diagnostic module which
records information after a
crash. See Vehicle Data
Recording and Privacy on
page 13‑14 and Event Data
Recorders on page 13‑14.

{ WARNING
A crash severe enough to inflate
the airbags may have also
damaged important functions in
the vehicle, such as the fuel
system, brake and steering
systems, etc. Even if the vehicle
appears to be drivable after a
moderate crash, there may be
concealed damage that could
make it difficult to safely operate
the vehicle.
Use caution if you should attempt
to restart the engine after a crash
has occurred.

3-25

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Let only qualified technicians
work on the airbag systems.
Improper service can mean that
an airbag system will not work
properly. See your dealer for
service.

Passenger Sensing
System
The vehicle has a passenger
sensing system for the front
outboard passenger position. The
passenger airbag status indicator
will light on the instrument panel
when the vehicle is started.

United States

Canada
The words ON and OFF, or the
symbol for on and off, will be visible
during the system check. check.
If you use remote start, if equipped,
to start the vehicle, you may not see
the system check. When the system
check is complete, either the word
ON or OFF, or the symbol for on or
off, will be visible. See Passenger
Airbag Status Indicator on
page 5‑11.
The passenger sensing system
turns off the front outboard
passenger frontal airbag under
certain conditions. No other airbag
is affected by the passenger
sensing system.

The passenger sensing system
works with sensors that are part of
the front outboard passenger seat.
The sensors are designed to detect
the presence of a properly seated
occupant and determine if the front
outboard passenger frontal airbag
should be allowed to inflate or not.
According to accident statistics,
children are safer when properly
secured in a rear seat in the correct
child restraint for their weight
and size.
We recommend that children be
secured in a rear seat, including:
an infant or a child riding in a
rear-facing child restraint; a child
riding in a forward-facing child seat;
an older child riding in a booster
seat; and children, who are large
enough, using safety belts.
Never put a rear-facing child seat in
the front. This is because the risk to
the rear-facing child is so great,
if the airbag inflates.

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{ WARNING

WARNING (Continued)

A child in a rear-facing child
restraint can be seriously injured
or killed if the passenger frontal
airbag inflates. This is because
the back of the rear-facing child
restraint would be very close to
the inflating airbag. A child in a
forward-facing child restraint can
be seriously injured or killed if the
passenger frontal airbag inflates
and the passenger seat is in a
forward position.

Secure rear-facing child restraints
in a rear seat, even if the
airbag is off. If you secure a
forward-facing child restraint in
the front outboard passenger
seat, always move the seat as far
back as it will go. It is better to
secure the child restraint in a
rear seat.

Even if the passenger sensing
system has turned off the
passenger frontal airbag, no
system is fail-safe. No one can
guarantee that an airbag will not
inflate under some unusual
circumstance, even though the
airbag is off.
(Continued)

The passenger sensing system
is designed to turn off the front
outboard passenger frontal airbag if:
.

The front outboard passenger
seat is unoccupied.

The system determines that an
infant is present in a rear-facing
infant seat.

The system determines that a
small child is present in a child
restraint.

3-27

The system determines that a
small child is present in a
booster seat.

A front outboard passenger
takes his/her weight off of the
seat for a period of time.

The front outboard passenger
seat is occupied by a smaller
person, such as a child who has
outgrown child restraints.

There is a critical problem
with the airbag system or the
passenger sensing system.

When the passenger sensing
system has turned off the front
outboard passenger frontal airbag,
the off indicator will light and stay lit
as a reminder that the airbag is off.
See Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator on page 5‑11.

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The passenger sensing system
is designed to turn on the front
outboard passenger frontal airbag
anytime the system senses that
a person of adult size is sitting
properly in the front outboard
passenger seat. When the
passenger sensing system has
allowed the airbag to be enabled,
the on indicator will light and stay lit
as a reminder that the airbag is
active.
For some children who have
outgrown child restraints, and for
very small adults, the passenger
sensing system may or may not turn
off the front outboard passenger
frontal airbag, depending upon
the person's seating posture
and body build. Everyone in the
vehicle who has outgrown child
restraints should wear a safety belt
properly — whether or not there is
an airbag for that person.

{ WARNING
If the airbag readiness light ever
comes on and stays on, it means
that something may be wrong
with the airbag system. To help
avoid injury to yourself or others,
have the vehicle serviced right
away. See Airbag Readiness
Light on page 5‑11 for more
information, including important
safety information.

If the On Indicator Is Lit for a
Child Restraint
If a child restraint has been installed
and the on indicator is lit:
1. Turn the vehicle off.
2. Remove the child restraint from
the vehicle.
3. Remove any additional items
from the seat such as blankets,
cushions, seat covers, seat
heaters, or seat massagers.

4. Reinstall the child restraint
following the directions
provided by the child restraint
manufacturer and refer to
Securing Child Restraints (Front
Outboard Passenger Seat) on
page 3‑48 or Securing Child
Restraints (Rear Seat) on
page 3‑45.
5. If, after reinstalling the child
restraint and restarting the
vehicle, the on indicator is still lit,
turn the vehicle off. Then slightly
recline the vehicle seatback
and adjust the seat cushion,
if adjustable, to make sure that
the vehicle seatback is not
pushing the child restraint into
the seat cushion. Also make
sure the child restraint is not
trapped under the vehicle head
restraint. If this happens, adjust
the head restraint. See Head
Restraints on page 3‑2.
6. Restart the vehicle.

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If the on indicator is still lit, secure
the child in the child restraint in a
rear seat position in the vehicle, and
check with your dealer.

Use the following steps to allow the
system to detect that person and
enable the front outboard passenger
frontal airbag:

If the Off Indicator Is Lit for an
Adult-Size Occupant

1. Turn the vehicle off.
2. Remove any additional material
from the seat, such as blankets,
cushions, seat covers, seat
heaters, or seat massagers.
3. Place the seatback in the fully
upright position.
4. Have the person sit upright in
the seat, centered on the seat
cushion, with legs comfortably
extended.

If a person of adult size is sitting in
the front outboard passenger seat,
but the off indicator is lit, it could
be because that person is not
sitting properly in the seat.

5. Restart the vehicle and have the
person remain in this position for
two to three minutes after the on
indicator is lit.

3-29

Additional Factors Affecting
System Operation
Safety belts help keep the
passenger in position on the
seat during vehicle maneuvers
and braking, which helps the
passenger sensing system maintain
the passenger airbag status.
See “Safety Belts” and “Child
Restraints” in the Index for
additional information about the
importance of proper restraint use.
A thick layer of additional
material, such as a blanket or
cushion, or aftermarket equipment
such as seat covers, seat heaters,
and seat massagers can affect
how well the passenger sensing
system operates. We recommend
that you not use seat covers or
other aftermarket equipment
except when approved by
GM for your specific vehicle.

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Seats and Restraints

See Adding Equipment to the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
page 3‑30 for more information
about modifications that can affect
how the system operates.

{ WARNING
Stowing of articles under the
passenger seat or between the
passenger seat cushion and
seatback may interfere with the
proper operation of the passenger
sensing system.

Servicing the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
Airbags affect how the vehicle
should be serviced. There are parts
of the airbag system in several
places around the vehicle. Your
dealer and the service manual have
information about servicing the
vehicle and the airbag system. To
purchase a service manual, see
Service Publications Ordering
Information on page 13‑12.

{ WARNING
For up to 10 seconds after the
vehicle is turned off and the
battery is disconnected, an airbag
can still inflate during improper
service. You can be injured if you
are close to an airbag when it
inflates. Avoid yellow connectors.
They are probably part of the
airbag system. Be sure to follow
proper service procedures, and
make sure the person performing
work for you is qualified to do so.

Adding Equipment to the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
Adding accessories that change the
vehicle's frame, bumper system,
height, front end or side sheet
metal, may keep the airbag
system from working properly. The
operation of the airbag system can
also be affected by changing or
moving any parts of the front seats,
safety belts, the airbag sensing and

diagnostic module, steering wheel,
instrument panel, roof-rail airbag
modules, ceiling headliner or pillar
garnish trim, front sensors, side
impact sensors, or airbag wiring.
Your dealer and the service manual
have information about the location
of the airbag sensors, sensing and
diagnostic module, and airbag
wiring.
In addition, the vehicle has a
passenger sensing system for the
front outboard passenger position,
which includes sensors that are
part of the passenger seat. The
passenger sensing system may not
operate properly if the original seat
trim is replaced with non-GM
covers, upholstery or trim, or with
GM covers, upholstery or trim
designed for a different vehicle.
Any object, such as an aftermarket
seat heater or a comfort enhancing
pad or device, installed under
or on top of the seat fabric, could
also interfere with the operation
of the passenger sensing system.

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Seats and Restraints
This could either prevent proper
deployment of the passenger
airbag(s) or prevent the passenger
sensing system from properly
turning off the passenger airbag(s).
See Passenger Sensing System on
page 3‑26.
The vehicle has rollover roof‐rail
airbags, see Different Size Tires
and Wheels on page 10‑54 for
additional important information.
If you have to modify your vehicle
because you have a disability and
have questions about whether the
modifications will affect the vehicle's
airbag system, or if you have
questions about whether the airbag
system will be affected if the vehicle
is modified for any other reason,
call Customer Assistance. See
Customer Assistance Offices on
page 13‑3.

Airbag System Check
The airbag system does not need
regularly scheduled maintenance or
replacement. Make sure the airbag

readiness light is working. See
Airbag Readiness Light on
page 5‑11.
Notice: If an airbag covering is
damaged, opened, or broken, the
airbag may not work properly. Do
not open or break the airbag
coverings. If there are any
opened or broken airbag covers,
have the airbag covering and/or
airbag module replaced. For the
location of the airbags, see
Where Are the Airbags? on
page 3‑21. See your dealer for
service.

Replacing Airbag System
Parts after a Crash

{ WARNING
A crash can damage the
airbag systems in the vehicle.
A damaged airbag system may
not work properly and may not
protect you and your
(Continued)

3-31

WARNING (Continued)
passenger(s) in a crash, resulting
in serious injury or even death.
To help make sure the airbag
systems are working properly
after a crash, have them
inspected and any necessary
replacements made as soon as
possible.
If an airbag inflates, you will need to
replace airbag system parts. See
your dealer for service.
If the airbag readiness light stays on
after the vehicle is started or comes
on when you are driving, the airbag
system may not work properly. Have
the vehicle serviced right away.
See Airbag Readiness Light on
page 5‑11.

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Seats and Restraints

Child Restraints
Older Children

The manufacturer's instructions that
come with the booster seat, state
the weight and height limitations for
that booster. Use a booster seat
with a lap-shoulder belt until the
child passes the below fit test:
.

Sit all the way back on the seat.
Do the knees bend at the seat
edge? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

Buckle the lap-shoulder belt.
Does the shoulder belt rest on
the shoulder? If yes, continue.
If no, then return to the
booster seat.

Does the lap belt fit low and
snug on the hips, touching the
thighs? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

Can proper safety belt fit be
maintained for the length of the
trip? If yes, continue. If no,
return to the booster seat.

Older children who have outgrown
booster seats should wear the
vehicle's safety belts.

Q: What is the proper way to
wear safety belts?
A: An older child should wear a
lap-shoulder belt and get the
additional restraint a shoulder
belt can provide. The shoulder
belt should not cross the face or
neck. The lap belt should fit
snugly below the hips, just
touching the top of the thighs.
This applies belt force to the
child's pelvic bones in a crash.
It should never be worn over the
abdomen, which could cause
severe or even fatal internal
injuries in a crash.
According to accident statistics,
children and infants are safer
when properly restrained in a child
restraint system or infant restraint
system secured in a rear seating
position.

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In a crash, children who are not
buckled up can strike other people
who are buckled up, or can be
thrown out of the vehicle. Older
children need to use safety belts
properly.

WARNING (Continued)
belt. The belt force would then be
applied right on the abdomen.
That could cause serious or fatal
injuries. The shoulder belt should
go over the shoulder and across
the chest.

{ WARNING
Never allow more than one child
to wear the same safety belt. The
safety belt cannot properly spread
the impact forces. In a crash, they
can be crushed together and
seriously injured. A safety belt
must be used by only one person
at a time.

3-33

{ WARNING
Never allow a child to wear the
safety belt with the shoulder belt
behind their back. A child can be
seriously injured by not wearing
the lap-shoulder belt properly. In a
crash, the child would not be
restrained by the shoulder belt.
The child could move too far
forward increasing the chance of
head and neck injury. The child
might also slide under the lap
(Continued)

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Seats and Restraints

Infants and Young
Children
Everyone in a vehicle needs
protection! This includes infants and
all other children. Neither the
distance traveled nor the age and
size of the traveler changes the
need, for everyone, to use safety
restraints. In fact, the law in every
state in the United States and in
every Canadian province says
children up to some age must be
restrained while in a vehicle.

{ WARNING
Children can be seriously injured
or strangled if a shoulder belt is
wrapped around their neck and
the safety belt continues to
tighten. Never leave children
unattended in a vehicle and never
allow children to play with the
safety belts.

Airbags plus lap‐shoulder belts offer
protection for adults and older
children, but not for young children
and infants. Neither the vehicle's
safety belt system nor its airbag
system is designed for them. Every
time infants and young children ride
in vehicles, they should have the
protection provided by appropriate
child restraints.
Children who are not restrained
properly can strike other people,
or can be thrown out of the vehicle.

{ WARNING
Never hold an infant or a child
while riding in a vehicle. Due to
crash forces, an infant or a child
will become so heavy it is not
possible to hold it during a crash.
For example, in a crash at only
40 km/h (25 mph), a 5.5 kg (12 lb)
infant will suddenly become a
110 kg (240 lb) force on a person's
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
arms. An infant should be
secured in an appropriate
restraint.

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Seats and Restraints

{ WARNING
Children who are up against,
or very close to, any airbag when
it inflates can be seriously injured
or killed. Never put a rear-facing
child restraint in the right front
seat. Secure a rear-facing child
restraint in a rear seat. It is also
better to secure a forward-facing
child restraint in a rear seat. If you
must secure a forward-facing
child restraint in the right front
seat, always move the front
passenger seat as far back as it
will go.

Q: What are the different types of
add-on child restraints?
A: Add-on child restraints, which
are purchased by the vehicle
owner, are available in four basic
types. Selection of a particular
restraint should take into
consideration not only the child's
weight, height, and age but also
whether or not the restraint will
be compatible with the motor
vehicle in which it will be used.
For most basic types of child
restraints, there are many
different models available. When
purchasing a child restraint, be

3-35

sure it is designed to be used
in a motor vehicle. If it is, the
restraint will have a label saying
that it meets federal motor
vehicle safety standards.
The restraint manufacturer's
instructions that come with the
restraint state the weight and
height limitations for a particular
child restraint. In addition, there
are many kinds of restraints
available for children with
special needs.

{ WARNING
To reduce the risk of neck and
head injury during a crash,
infants need complete support.
In a crash, if an infant is in a
rear-facing child restraint, the
crash forces can be distributed
across the strongest part of an
infant's body, the back and
shoulders. Infants should always
be secured in rear-facing child
restraints.

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Seats and Restraints

{ WARNING
A young child's hip bones are still
so small that the vehicle's regular
safety belt may not remain low on
the hip bones, as it should.
Instead, it may settle up around
the child's abdomen. In a crash,
the belt would apply force on a
body area that is unprotected by
any bony structure. This alone
could cause serious or fatal
injuries. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injuries during a
crash, young children should
always be secured in appropriate
child restraints.

Child Restraint Systems

Forward-Facing Child Seat
Rear-Facing Infant Seat
A rear-facing infant seat provides
restraint with the seating surface
against the back of the infant.
The harness system holds the infant
in place and, in a crash, acts to
keep the infant positioned in the
restraint.

A forward-facing child seat provides
restraint for the child's body with the
harness.

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Seats and Restraints
Securing an Add-On Child
Restraint in the Vehicle

{ WARNING

Booster Seats
A booster seat is a child restraint
designed to improve the fit of the
vehicle's safety belt system.
A booster seat can also help a child
to see out the window.

A child can be seriously injured
or killed in a crash if the child
restraint is not properly secured
in the vehicle. Secure the child
restraint properly in the vehicle
using the vehicle safety belt or
LATCH system, following the
instructions that came with that
child restraint and the instructions
in this manual.
To help reduce the chance of injury,
the child restraint must be secured
in the vehicle. Child restraint
systems must be secured in vehicle
seats by lap belts or the lap belt
portion of a lap-shoulder belt, or by
the LATCH system. See Lower
Anchors and Tethers for Children
(LATCH System) on page 3‑39 for
more information. Children can be

3-37

endangered in a crash if the child
restraint is not properly secured in
the vehicle.
When securing an add-on child
restraint, refer to the instructions
that come with the restraint which
may be on the restraint itself or in a
booklet, or both, and to this manual.
The child restraint instructions are
important, so if they are not
available, obtain a replacement
copy from the manufacturer.
Keep in mind that an unsecured
child restraint can move around in a
collision or sudden stop and injure
people in the vehicle. Be sure to
properly secure any child restraint in
the vehicle— even when no child is
in it.
In some areas, Certified Child
Passenger Safety Technicians
(CPSTs) are available to inspect
and demonstrate how to correctly
use and install child restraints.

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Seats and Restraints

In the U.S., refer to the
National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration (NHTSA) website
to locate the nearest child safety
seat inspection station. For CPST
availability in Canada, check with
Transport Canada or the Provincial
Ministry of Transportation office.

Securing the Child within the
Child Restraint

{ WARNING
A child can be seriously injured or
killed in a crash if the child is not
properly secured in the child
restraint. Secure the child
properly following the instructions
that came with that child restraint.

Where to Put the
Restraint
According to accident statistics,
children and infants are safer
when properly restrained in a child

restraint system or infant restraint
system secured in a rear seating
position.
We recommend that children and
child restraints be secured in a rear
seat, including: an infant or a child
riding in a rear-facing child restraint;
a child riding in a forward-facing
child seat; an older child riding in a
booster seat; and children, who are
large enough, using safety belts.
A label on your sun visor
says,“Never put a rear-facing
child seat in the front.” This is
because the risk to the rear-facing
child is so great, if the airbag
deploys.

{ WARNING
A child in a rear-facing child
restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right front
passenger airbag inflates. This
is because the back of the
rear-facing child restraint would
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
be very close to the inflating
airbag. A child in a forward-facing
child restraint can be seriously
injured or killed if the right front
passenger airbag inflates and the
passenger seat is in a forward
position.
Even if the passenger sensing
system has turned off the right
front passenger frontal airbag, no
system is fail-safe. No one can
guarantee that an airbag will not
deploy under some unusual
circumstance, even though it is
turned off.
Secure rear-facing child
restraints in a rear seat, even if
the airbag is off. If you secure a
forward-facing child restraint in
the right front seat, always move
the front passenger seat as far
(Continued)

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Seats and Restraints
WARNING (Continued)
back as it will go. It is better to
secure the child restraint in a
rear seat.
See Passenger Sensing System
on page 3‑26 for additional
information.
When securing a child restraint in a
rear seating position, study the
instructions that came with your
child restraint to make sure it is
compatible with this vehicle.
Child restraints and booster seats
vary considerably in size, and some
may fit in certain seating positions
better than others. Always make
sure the child restraint is properly
secured.
Depending on where you place the
child restraint and the size of the
child restraint, you may not be able
to access adjacent safety belt
assemblies or LATCH anchors for
additional passengers or child

restraints. Adjacent seating
positions should not be used if the
child restraint prevents access to or
interferes with the routing of the
safety belt.
Wherever you install a child
restraint, be sure to secure the
child restraint properly.
Keep in mind that an unsecured
child restraint can move around in a
collision or sudden stop and injure
people in the vehicle. Be sure to
properly secure any child restraint in
your vehicle — even when no child
is in it.

Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children
(LATCH System)
The LATCH system holds a child
restraint during driving or in a crash.
This system is designed to make
installation of a child restraint easier.
The LATCH system uses anchors in

3-39

the vehicle and attachments on the
child restraint that are made for use
with the LATCH system.
Make sure that a LATCH-compatible
child restraint is properly installed
using the anchors, or use the
vehicle's safety belts to secure the
restraint, following the instructions
that came with that restraint, and
also the instructions in this manual.
When installing a child restraint with
a top tether, you must also use
either the lower anchors or the
safety belts to properly secure the
child restraint. A child restraint must
never be installed using only the top
tether and anchor.
In order to use the LATCH system
in your vehicle, you need a
child restraint that has LATCH
attachments. The child restraint
manufacturer will provide you with
instructions on how to use the child
restraint and its attachments. The
following explains how to attach
a child restraint with these
attachments in your vehicle.

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Seats and Restraints

Not all vehicle seating positions or
child restraints have lower anchors
and attachments or top tether
anchors and attachments.

Top Tether Anchor

Lower Anchors

Lower anchors (A) are metal bars
built into the vehicle. There are
two lower anchors for each
LATCH seating position that will
accommodate a child restraint with
lower attachments (B).

A top tether (A, C) anchors the
top of the child restraint to the
vehicle. A top tether anchor is built
into the vehicle. The top tether
attachment (B) on the child restraint
connects to the top tether anchor in
the vehicle in order to reduce the
forward movement and rotation of
the child restraint during driving or in
a crash.

Your child restraint may have
a single tether (A) or a dual
tether (C). Either will have a
single attachment (B) to secure
the top tether to the anchor.
Some child restraints that have a
top tether are designed for use with
or without the top tether being
attached. Others require the top
tether always to be attached. In
Canada, the law requires that
forward-facing child restraints have
a top tether, and that the tether be
attached. Be sure to read and follow
the instructions for your child
restraint.

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Seats and Restraints

3-41

Lower Anchor and Top Tether
Anchor Locations

To assist in locating the lower
anchors, each seating position with
lower anchors has two labels, near
the crease between the seatback
and the seat cushion.
Sedan

I (Top Tether Anchor):

Seating
positions with top tether anchors.

H (Lower Anchor): Seating
positions with two lower anchors.

To assist in locating the top tether
anchors, the top tether anchor
symbol is on the cover for sedan
models or near the anchors on
hatchback models.

For sedan models, the top tether
anchors are under the covers
behind the rear seat on the filler
panel. Pull open the cover to access
the top tether anchors. Be sure to
use an anchor on the same side of
the vehicle as the seating position
where the child restraint will be
placed.

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Seats and Restraints
the instructions that come with the
child restraint say that the top tether
must be attached.
According to accident statistics,
children and infants are safer when
properly restrained in a child
restraint system or infant restraint
system secured in a rear seating
position. See Where to Put the
Restraint on page 3‑38 for
additional information.
Hatchback

For hatchback models, the top
tether anchors are on the back of
the rear seatbacks. Remove the
cargo cover before installing the top
tether. The cargo cover should
remain off while the top tether is in
use. Be sure to use an anchor on
the same side of the vehicle as the
seating position where the child
restraint will be placed.
Do not secure a child restraint in a
position without a top tether anchor
if a national or local law requires
that the top tether be attached, or if

Securing a Child Restraint
Designed for the LATCH
System

{ WARNING
If a LATCH-type child restraint is
not attached to anchors, the child
restraint will not be able to protect
the child correctly. In a crash, the
child could be seriously injured or
killed. Install a LATCH-type child
restraint properly using the
anchors, or use the vehicle safety
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
belts to secure the restraint,
following the instructions that
came with the child restraint and
the instructions in this manual.

{ WARNING
Do not attach more than one child
restraint to a single anchor.
Attaching more than one child
restraint to a single anchor could
cause the anchor or attachment
to come loose or even break
during a crash. A child or others
could be injured. To reduce the
risk of serious or fatal injuries
during a crash, attach only one
child restraint per anchor.

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Seats and Restraints

{ WARNING
Children can be seriously injured
or strangled if a shoulder belt is
wrapped around their neck and
the safety belt continues to
tighten. Buckle any unused safety
belts behind the child restraint so
children cannot reach them. Pull
the shoulder belt all the way out
of the retractor to set the lock,
if the vehicle has one, after the
child restraint has been installed.
Notice: Do not let the LATCH
attachments rub against the
vehicle’s safety belts. This may
damage these parts. If necessary,
move buckled safety belts to
avoid rubbing the LATCH
attachments.

Do not fold the empty rear seat
with a safety belt buckled. This
could damage the safety belt or
the seat. Unbuckle and return the
safety belt to its stowed position,
before folding the seat.
1. Attach and tighten the lower
attachments to the lower
anchors. If the child restraint
does not have lower
attachments or the desired
seating position does not have
lower anchors, secure the child
restraint with the top tether and
the safety belts. Refer to your
child restraint manufacturer
instructions and the instructions
in this manual.
1.1. Find the lower anchors
for the desired seating
position.
1.2. Put the child restraint on
the seat.

3-43

1.3. Attach and tighten the lower
attachments on the child
restraint to the lower
anchors.
2. If the child restraint manufacturer
recommends that the top tether
be attached, attach and tighten
the top tether to the top tether
anchor, if equipped. Refer to the
child restraint instructions and
the following steps:
2.1. Find the top tether anchor.
2.2. Open the cover,
if equipped, to access the
top tether anchors.
2.3. For hatchback models,
remove the cargo cover
before installing the top
tether. The cargo cover
should remain off while the
top tether is in use.

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Seats and Restraints

2.4. Route and tighten the top
tether according to your
child restraint instructions
and the following
instructions:

If the position you
are using does not
have a headrest or
head restraint and
you are using a
single tether, route
the tether over the
seatback.

If the position you
are using does not
have a headrest or
head restraint and
you are using a dual
tether, route the
tether over the
seatback.

If the position you
are using has an
adjustable headrest
or head restraint and
you are using a
single tether, raise
the headrest or head
restraint and route
the tether under the
headrest or head
restraint and in
between the
headrest or head
restraint posts.

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Seats and Restraints
and forth. There should be no
more than 2.5 cm (1 in) of
movement for proper installation.

Replacing LATCH System
Parts After a Crash

{ WARNING
.

If the position you
are using has an
adjustable headrest
or head restraint and
you are using a dual
tether, raise the
headrest or head
restraint and route
the tether under the
headrest or head
restraint and around
the headrest or head
restraint posts.

3. Before placing a child in the
child restraint, make sure it is
securely held in place. To check,
grasp the child restraint at the
LATCH path and attempt to
move it side to side and back

A crash can damage the
LATCH system in the vehicle.
A damaged LATCH system may
not properly secure the child
restraint, resulting in serious
injury or even death in a crash.
To help make sure the LATCH
system is working properly after a
crash, see your dealer to have
the system inspected and any
necessary replacements made as
soon as possible.
If the vehicle has the LATCH system
and it was being used during a
crash, new LATCH system parts
may be needed.

3-45

New parts and repairs may be
necessary even if the LATCH
system was not being used at the
time of the crash.

Securing Child Restraints
(Rear Seat)
When securing a child restraint in
a rear seating position, study the
instructions that came with the
child restraint to make sure it is
compatible with this vehicle.
If the child restraint has the LATCH
system, see Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children (LATCH
System) on page 3‑39 for how and
where to install the child restraint
using LATCH. If a child restraint is
secured in the vehicle using a
safety belt and it uses a top tether,
see Lower Anchors and Tethers for
Children (LATCH System) on
page 3‑39 for top tether anchor
locations.

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Seats and Restraints

Do not secure a child seat in a
position without a top tether anchor
if a national or local law requires
that the top tether be anchored, or if
the instructions that come with the
child restraint say that the top strap
must be anchored.
In Canada, the law requires that
forward-facing child restraints have
a top tether, and that the tether be
attached.
If the child restraint does not have
the LATCH system, you will be
using the safety belt to secure the
child restraint in this position.
Be sure to follow the instructions
that came with the child restraint.
Secure the child in the child restraint
when and as the instructions say.

If more than one child restraint
needs to be installed in the rear
seat, be sure to read Where to Put
the Restraint on page 3‑38.
1. Put the child restraint on
the seat.
2. Pick up the latch plate, and run
the lap and shoulder portions of
the vehicle safety belt through or
around the restraint. The child
restraint instructions will show
you how.

3. Push the latch plate into the
buckle until it clicks.
Position the release button on
the buckle so that the safety belt
could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (47,1)

Seats and Restraints

3-47

6. If the child restraint has a top
tether, follow the child restraint
manufacturer's instructions
regarding the use of the top
tether. See Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children (LATCH
System) on page 3‑39 for more
information.

4. Pull the shoulder belt all the way
out of the retractor to set the
lock. When the retractor lock is
set, the belt can be tightened but
not pulled out of the retractor.

5. To tighten the belt, push down
on the child restraint, pull the
shoulder portion of the belt to
tighten the lap portion of the belt,
and feed the shoulder belt back
into the retractor. When installing
a forward-facing child restraint, it
may be helpful to use your knee
to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.
Try to pull the belt out of the
retractor to make sure the
retractor is locked. If the
retractor is not locked, repeat
Steps 4 and 5.

7. Before placing a child in the
child restraint, make sure it is
securely held in place. To check,
grasp the child restraint at the
safety belt path and attempt to
move it side to side and back
and forth. When the child
restraint is properly installed,
there should be no more than
2.5 cm (1 in) of movement.
To remove the child restraint,
unbuckle the vehicle safety belt and
let it return to the stowed position.
If the top tether is attached to a top
tether anchor, disconnect it.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

3-48

Black plate (48,1)

Seats and Restraints

Securing Child Restraints
(Front Outboard
Passenger Seat)
This vehicle has airbags. A rear
seat is a safer place to secure a
forward-facing child restraint. See
Where to Put the Restraint on
page 3‑38.
In addition, the vehicle has a
passenger sensing system which
is designed to turn off the front
outboard passenger frontal airbag
under certain conditions. See
Passenger Sensing System on
page 3‑26 and Passenger Airbag
Status Indicator on page 5‑11 for
more information on this, including
important safety information.
Never put a rear-facing child seat in
the front. This is because the risk to
the rear-facing child is so great,
if the airbag deploys.

{ WARNING

WARNING (Continued)

If the child restraint has the LATCH
system, see Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children (LATCH
System) on page 3‑39 for how to
install your child restraint using
LATCH. If a child restraint is secured
using a safety belt and it uses a top
tether, see Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children (LATCH
System) on page 3‑39 for top tether
anchor locations.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (49,1)

Seats and Restraints
Do not secure a child seat in a
position without a top tether anchor
if a national or local law requires
that the top tether be anchored, or if
the instructions that come with the
child restraint say that the top strap
must be anchored.
In Canada, the law requires that
forward-facing child restraints have
a top tether, and that the tether be
attached.

2. Put the child restraint on
the seat.
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run
the lap and shoulder portions of
the vehicle's safety belt through
or around the restraint. The child
restraint instructions will show
you how.

You will be using the lap-shoulder
belt to secure the child restraint in
this position. Follow the instructions
that came with the child restraint.

4. Push the latch plate into the
buckle until it clicks.
Position the release button on
the buckle so that the safety belt
could be quickly unbuckled if
necessary.

1. Move the seat as far back as it
will go before securing the
forward-facing child restraint.
When the passenger sensing
system has turned off the front
outboard passenger frontal
airbag, the off indicator on the
passenger airbag status
indicator should light and stay lit
when you start the vehicle. See
Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator on page 5‑11.

3-49

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the
belt if needed.

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3-50

Black plate (50,1)

Seats and Restraints
7. Before placing a child in the
child restraint, make sure it is
securely held in place. To check,
grasp the child restraint at the
safety belt path and attempt to
move it side to side and back
and forth. When the child
restraint is properly installed,
there should be no more than
2.5 cm (1 in) of movement.

5. Pull the shoulder belt all the way
out of the retractor to set the
lock. When the retractor lock is
set, the belt can be tightened but
not pulled out of the retractor.

6. To tighten the belt, push down
on the child restraint, pull the
shoulder portion of the belt to
tighten the lap portion of the belt,
and feed the shoulder belt back
into the retractor. When installing
a forward-facing child restraint, it
may be helpful to use your knee
to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.
Try to pull the belt out of the
retractor to make sure the
retractor is locked. If the
retractor is not locked, repeat
Steps 5 and 6.

If the airbag is off, the off indicator
in the passenger airbag status
indicator will come on and stay on
when the vehicle is started.
If a child restraint has been installed
and the off symbol is not lit, see “If
the On Indicator Is Lit for a Child
Restraint” under Passenger Sensing
System on page 3‑26 for more
information.
To remove the child restraint,
unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt
and let it go back all the way.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

Storage

Storage
Storage Compartments
Instrument Panel Storage . . . . . 4-1
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Storage
Compartments

Luggage/Load
Locations

Instrument Panel Storage

Load Compartment
(Hatchback)

4-1

The load compartment cover can be
used to conceal objects under it or
removed and placed on the bottom
of the load compartment to carry
larger loads.

Luggage/Load Locations
Load Compartment
(Hatchback) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Additional Storage Features
Cargo Cover (Hatchback) . . . . . 4-2

To remove the load compartment
cover:
1. Lift up on the load compartment
cover and pull out.
Lift up on the lever to open.
If equipped, the storage area may
have an auxiliary input jack and
USB port inside.

Glove Box
Lift up on the glove box lever to
open it.

2. Store the load compartment
cover on the bottom of the load
compartment.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

4-2

Black plate (2,1)

Storage

To install the load compartment
cover:
1. Align the front sides of the load
compartment cover into the slots
on both sides at the front of the
load compartment.
2. Lower the load compartment
cover onto the lip around the
load compartment.

Additional Storage
Features
Cargo Cover (Hatchback)

{ WARNING
An unsecured cargo cover could
strike people in a sudden stop or
turn, or in a crash. Store the
cargo cover securely or remove it
from the vehicle.

The cargo cover can be used to
cover items in the rear of the
vehicle.
To remove the cargo cover:
1. Remove both of the cords from
the hooks at the top of the
liftgate.
2. Push up on the underside of the
cargo cover at both pins at the
front sides of the cargo cover.
To install the cargo cover:
1. Align the clips on the underside
of the cargo cover over the pins
on both sides of the cargo area
and push down.
2. Reconnect both of the cords to
the hooks at the top of the
liftgate.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

Instruments and Controls

Instruments and
Controls
Controls
Steering Wheel Adjustment . . . 5-2
Steering Wheel Controls . . . . . . 5-2
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Windshield Wiper/Washer . . . . . 5-3
Rear Window Wiper/
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Power Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7

Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . .
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5-7
5-8
5-9
5-9
5-9

Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Fuel Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . 5-10
Airbag Readiness Light . . . . . . 5-11
Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Charging System Light . . . . . . 5-12
Malfunction
Indicator Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-13
Service Vehicle Soon
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Owner Manual Indicator . . . . . 5-15
Code Set Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Brake System Warning
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
Antilock Brake System (ABS)
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-16
Up-Shift Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Speed Sensitive Power
Steering (SSPS) Warning
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Traction Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
StabiliTrak® OFF Light . . . . . . . 5-18
Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light . . . . 5-18

5-1

Engine Coolant Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19
Tire Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . 5-19
Engine Oil Pressure Light . . . . 5-20
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . 5-20
Immobilizer Light . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Reduced Engine Power
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Daytime Running Lamps
(DRL) Indicator Light . . . . . . . 5-22
Front Fog Lamp Light . . . . . . . . 5-22
Lamps On Reminder . . . . . . . . . 5-22
Cruise Control Light . . . . . . . . . 5-22
Door Ajar Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-23

Information Displays
Driver Information
Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-23

Vehicle Messages
Vehicle Messages . . . . . . . . . . . 5-27

Vehicle Personalization
Vehicle Personalization . . . . . . 5-27

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

5-2

Black plate (2,1)

Instruments and Controls

Controls

Steering Wheel Controls

Steering Wheel
Adjustment

$ / i (Mute/End Call): Press to
reject an incoming call, or end a
current call. Press to silence the
vehicle speakers while using the
infotainment system. Press again to
turn the sound on.
For vehicles with OnStar or
Bluetooth systems, press to
reject an incoming call, or end a
current call.

_ SRC ^ (Source): Press to select
an audio source.
Some audio controls can be
adjusted at the steering wheel.
To adjust the steering wheel:
1. Pull the lever down.
2. Move the steering wheel up,
down, forward, and backward.
3. Pull the lever up to lock the
steering wheel in place.
Do not adjust the steering wheel
while driving.

b / g (Push to Talk): For vehicles
with Bluetooth or OnStar, press to
interact with those systems. See
Bluetooth (Voice Recognition) on
page 7‑25 or Bluetooth (Overview)
on page 7‑19 or Bluetooth
(Infotainment Controls) on
page 7‑21 or OnStar Overview on
page 14‑1.

Use to scroll up or down to select
the next or previous favorite radio
station or CD/MP3 track.
+ x − (Volume): Press + or − to
increase or decrease the volume.

Horn
Press a on the steering wheel pad
to sound the horn.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

Instruments and Controls

Windshield Wiper/Washer

long the windshield washer had
been activated. See Washer Fluid
on page 10‑20 for information on
filling the windshield washer fluid
reservoir.
Hatchback Shown, Sedan Similar

Sedan

5-3

INT: (Intermittent Wipes): Move
the lever up to INT for intermittent
wipes, then turn the x INT band
up for more frequent wipes or down
for less frequent wipes.

{ WARNING
In freezing weather, do not use
the washer until the windshield
is warmed. Otherwise the
washer fluid can form ice on the
windshield, blocking your vision.

OFF: Use to turn the wipers off.
Hatchback
The windshield wiper/washer lever
is located on the right side of the
steering column.
Move the lever to one of the
following positions:
HI: Use for fast wipes.
LO: Use for slow wipes.

8 (Mist):

For a single wipe, briefly
move the wiper lever down. For
several wipes, hold the wiper
lever down.

n L (Windshield Washer): Pull
the windshield wiper lever toward
you to spray windshield washer
fluid and activate the wipers. The
wipers will continue until the lever is
released or the maximum wash time
is reached. When the windshield
wiper lever is released, additional
wipes may occur depending on how

Clear snow and ice from the wiper
blades before using them. If frozen
to the windshield, carefully loosen or
thaw them. Damaged wiper blades
should be replaced. See Wiper
Blade Replacement on page 10‑26.
Heavy snow or ice can overload the
wiper motor. A circuit breaker will
stop the motor until it cools down.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

5-4

Black plate (4,1)

Instruments and Controls

Rear Window Wiper/
Washer
For vehicles with the rear wiper/
washer, the controls are on the end
of the windshield wiper lever.

= (Rear Washer):

Push the
windshield wiper lever forward to
spray washer fluid on the rear
window. The lever returns to its
starting position when released.
The windshield washer reservoir is
used for the windshield and the rear
window. Check the fluid level in the
reservoir if either washer is not
working. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑20.

Compass
ON: Press the upper portion of the
button for continuous rear window
wipes.
OFF: The rear wiper turns off when
the button is returned to the middle
position.
INT (Intermittent Rear Wipes):
Press the lower portion of the button
to set a delay between wipes.

The vehicle may have a compass
display in the Driver Information
Center (DIC). The compass receives
its heading and other information
from the Global Positioning
System (GPS) antenna, StabiliTrak,
and vehicle speed information.

Avoid covering the GPS antenna,
located on the roof, for long periods
of time with objects that may
interfere with the antenna's ability
to receive a satellite signal. The
compass system is designed to
operate for a certain number of
miles or degrees of turn before
needing a signal from the GPS
satellites. When the compass
display shows CAL, drive the
vehicle for a short distance in an
open area where it can receive a
GPS signal. The compass system
will automatically determine when
the GPS signal is restored and
provide a heading again.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (5,1)

Instruments and Controls

Clock
The infotainment system controls
are used to access the time and
date settings through the menu
system. See Operation on page 7‑5
for information about how to use the
menu system.

5. Press the MENU/TUNE knob to
select the next value.

Setting the Clock

6. To save the time or date
and return to the Time and
Date Settings menu, press
the / BACK button at any time
or press the MENU/TUNE knob
after adjusting the minutes
or year.

To set the time and date:

To set the 12/24 hour format:

1. Press the TP (Time Program)
button or H (depending on
radio).

2. Select Time and Date Settings.

3. Select Set Time or Set Date.

3. Highlight Set Time Format.

4. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
adjust the highlighted value.

4. Press the MENU/TUNE knob to
select the 12 hour or 24 hour
display format.

5-5

To set the month and day format:
1. Press the TP (Time Program)
button or H (depending on
radio).
2. Select Time and Date Settings.
3. Highlight Set Date Format.
4. Press the MENU/TUNE knob to
select MM/DD/YYYY (month/
day/year), or DD/MM/YYYY
(day/month/year), or YYYY/
MM/DD (year/month/day).

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

5-6

Black plate (6,1)

Instruments and Controls

Remove the cover to access and
replace when not in use.

{ WARNING
Power is always supplied to the
outlets. Do not leave electrical
equipment plugged in when the
vehicle is not in use because the
vehicle could catch fire and cause
injury or death.
Notice: Leaving electrical
equipment plugged in for an
extended period of time while
the vehicle is off will drain the
battery. Always unplug electrical
equipment when not in use and
do not plug in equipment that
exceeds the maximum 20 ampere
rating.

Certain accessory power plugs
may not be compatible with the
accessory power outlet and could
overload vehicle or adapter fuses.
If a problem is experienced, see
your dealer.
When adding electrical equipment,
be sure to follow the proper
installation instructions included
with the equipment. See Add-On
Electrical Equipment on page 9‑40.
Notice: Hanging heavy
equipment from the power outlet
can cause damage not covered
by the vehicle warranty. The
power outlets are designed for
accessory power plugs only, such
as cell phone charge cords.

Cigarette Lighter
For vehicles with a cigarette lighter,
it is located in the center floor
console.
The ignition must be turned to ACC/
ACCESSORY or ON/RUN.
To activate the cigarette lighter,
push it into the heating element and
let go. When the lighter is ready it
will pop back out.
Notice: Holding a cigarette lighter
in while it is heating does not let
the lighter back away from the
heating element when it is hot.
Damage from overheating can
occur to the lighter or heating
element, or a fuse could be
blown. Do not hold a cigarette
lighter in while it is heating.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

Instruments and Controls

Ashtrays
The vehicle may have a removable
ashtray.
The removable ashtray can be
placed in the front cupholders. To
open the removable ashtray, lift the
lid of the ashtray. After using, close
the lid.
Notice: If papers, pins, or other
flammable items are put in the
ashtray, hot cigarettes or other
smoking materials could ignite
them and possibly damage the
vehicle. Never put flammable
items in the ashtray.

5-7

Warning Lights,
Gauges, and
Indicators

Gauges can indicate when there
could be a problem with a vehicle
function. Often gauges and warning
lights work together to indicate a
problem with the vehicle.

Warning lights and gauges can
signal that something is wrong
before it becomes serious enough
to cause an expensive repair or
replacement. Paying attention to the
warning lights and gauges could
prevent injury.

When one of the warning lights
comes on and stays on while
driving, or when one of the gauges
shows there may be a problem,
check the section that explains what
to do. Follow this manual's advice.
Waiting to do repairs can be costly
and even dangerous.

Warning lights come on when there
could be a problem with a vehicle
function. Some warning lights come
on briefly when the engine is started
to indicate they are working.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

5-8

Black plate (8,1)

Instruments and Controls

Instrument Cluster

United States Manual Transmission Shown, Canada Similar

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

Instruments and Controls

Speedometer

Trip Odometer

5-9

Fuel Gauge

The speedometer shows the
vehicle's speed in either kilometers
per hour (km/h) or miles per
hour (mph).

Odometer
The trip odometer measures the
distance the vehicle has been
driven since the function was last
reset.

The odometer shows how far the
vehicle has been driven, in either
kilometers or miles.

To reset the trip odometer to zero,
press and hold the reset button on
the lower right of the tachometer.
The reset button resets only the trip
odometer that is being displayed.

Tachometer
The tachometer displays the
engine speed in revolutions per
minute (rpm).

The fuel gauge indicates about how
much fuel is left when the ignition is
turned to ON/RUN.
When the tank nears empty, the
low fuel warning light will come on.
There is still a little fuel left, but the
vehicle's fuel tank should be filled
soon. See Low Fuel Warning Light
on page 5‑20 for more information.
An arrow on the fuel gauge
indicates on which side of the
vehicle the fuel door is located.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

5-10

Instruments and Controls

Here are four things that some
owners ask about. None of these
show a problem with the fuel gauge:
.

Black plate (10,1)

At the service station, the gas
pump shuts off before the gauge
reads full.
It takes a little more or less
fuel to fill up than the gauge
indicated. For example, the
gauge may have indicated the
tank was half full, but it actually
took a little more or less than
half the tank's capacity to fill
the tank.
The indicator moves a little when
turning a corner or speeding up.
The gauge goes back to empty
when the ignition is turned off.

Safety Belt Reminders
Driver Safety Belt Reminder
Light

Passenger Safety Belt
Reminder Light

There is a driver safety belt
reminder light on the instrument
panel cluster.

When the vehicle is started, this
light flashes and a chime may come
on to remind the driver to fasten
their safety belt. Then the light stays
on solid until the belt is buckled.
This cycle may continue several
times if the driver remains or
becomes unbuckled while the
vehicle is moving.
If the driver safety belt is buckled,
neither the light nor the chime
comes on.

When the vehicle is started, this
light flashes and a chime may come
on to remind front passengers to
fasten their safety belt. Then the
light stays on solid until the belt is
buckled.
See Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator on page 5‑11.
This cycle continues several times
if the front passenger remains or
becomes unbuckled while the
vehicle is moving.
If the front passenger safety belt is
buckled, neither the chime nor the
light comes on.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (11,1)

Instruments and Controls
The front passenger safety belt
reminder light and chime may turn
on if an object is put on the seat
such as a briefcase, handbag,
grocery bag, laptop, or other
electronic device. To turn off the
reminder light and/or chime, remove
the object from the seat or buckle
the safety belt.

Airbag Readiness Light
There is an airbag readiness light
on the instrument panel cluster,
which shows the airbag symbol.
The system checks the airbag's
electrical system for malfunctions.
The light tells if there is an electrical
problem. The system check includes
the airbag sensor(s), passenger
sensing system, the pretensioners,
the airbag modules, the wiring, and
the crash sensing and diagnostic
module. For more information on the
airbag system, see Airbag System
on page 3‑19.

5-11

{ WARNING

This light comes on when the
vehicle is started, and it will flash for
a few seconds. When the light goes
out this indicates the system is
functioning properly.
If the airbag readiness light stays
on or comes on while driving, the
airbag system may not work
properly. Have the vehicle serviced
right away.

If the airbag readiness light stays
on after the vehicle is started or
comes on while driving, it means
the airbag system might not be
working properly. The airbags in
the vehicle might not inflate in a
crash, or they could even inflate
without a crash. To help avoid
injury, have the vehicle serviced
right away.

Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator
The vehicle has a passenger
sensing system. See Passenger
Sensing System on page 3‑26 for
important safety information. The
instrument panel has a passenger
airbag status indicator.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

5-12

Black plate (12,1)

Instruments and Controls
If the word ON or the on symbol is
lit on the passenger airbag status
indicator, it means that the front
outboard passenger frontal airbag is
allowed to inflate.
United States

Canada
When the vehicle is started, the
passenger airbag status indicator
will light ON and OFF, or the symbol
for on and off, for several seconds
as a system check. If you use
remote start, if equipped, to start the
vehicle, you may not see the system
check. Then, after several seconds,
the status indicator will light either
ON or OFF, or the on or off symbol
to let you know the status of the
front outboard passenger frontal
airbag.

If the word OFF or the off symbol is
lit on the passenger airbag status
indicator, it means that the
passenger sensing system has
turned off the front outboard
passenger frontal airbag.
If, after several seconds, both status
indicator lights remain on, or if there
are no lights at all, there may be a
problem with the lights or the
passenger sensing system. See
your dealer for service.

WARNING (Continued)
away. See Airbag Readiness
Light on page 5‑11 for more
information, including important
safety information.

Charging System Light

This light will come on briefly when
the ignition is turned on, and the
engine is not running, as a check to
show it is working.
It should go out when the engine is
started. If it stays on, or comes on
while driving, there may be a
problem with the electrical charging
system. Have it checked by your
dealer. Driving while this light is on
could drain the battery. If a short

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Instruments and Controls
distance must be driven with the
light on, turn off all accessories,
such as the radio and air conditioner
to help reduce the drain on the
battery.

Malfunction
Indicator Lamp
A computer system called OBD II
(On-Board Diagnostics-Second
Generation) monitors the operation
of the vehicle to ensure emissions
are at acceptable levels, to produce
a cleaner environment. This light
comes on when the vehicle is
placed in ON/RUN, as a check to
show it is working. If it does not,
have the vehicle serviced by your
dealer. See Ignition Positions on
page 9‑15 for more information.

If the malfunction indicator lamp
comes on and stays on while the
engine is running, this indicates that
there is an OBD II problem and
service is required.
Malfunctions often are indicated by
the system before any problem is
apparent. Being aware of the light
can prevent more serious damage
to the vehicle. This system assists
the service technician in correctly
diagnosing any malfunction.
Notice: If the vehicle is
continually driven with this light
on, the emission controls might
not work as well, the vehicle fuel
economy might not be as good,
and the engine might not run as
smoothly. This could lead to
costly repairs that might not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

5-13

Notice: Modifications made to the
engine, transmission, exhaust,
intake, or fuel system of the
vehicle or the replacement
of the original tires with other
than those of the same Tire
Performance Criteria (TPC) can
affect the vehicle's emission
controls and can cause this light
to come on. Modifications to
these systems could lead to
costly repairs not covered by
the vehicle warranty. This could
also result in a failure to pass a
required Emission Inspection/
Maintenance test. See
Accessories and Modifications on
page 10‑3.
This light comes on during a
malfunction in one of two ways:
Light Flashing: A misfire condition
has been detected. A misfire
increases vehicle emissions and
could damage the emission control
system on the vehicle. Diagnosis
and service might be required.

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5-14

Instruments and Controls

To prevent more serious damage to
the vehicle:
.

Reduce vehicle speed.

Avoid hard accelerations.

Avoid steep uphill grades.

If the light continues to flash, stop
and park the vehicle. Turn the
vehicle off, wait at least 10 seconds,
and restart the engine. If the light is
still flashing, follow the previous
steps and see your dealer for
service as soon as possible.
Light On Steady: An emission
control system malfunction has
been detected on the vehicle.
Diagnosis and service might be
required.
The following may correct an
emission system malfunction:
.

Black plate (14,1)

Check that the fuel cap is fully
installed. See Filling the Tank on
page 9‑37. The diagnostic
system can determine if the
fuel cap has been left off or
improperly installed. A loose or
missing fuel cap allows fuel to

evaporate into the atmosphere.
A few driving trips with the cap
properly installed should turn the
light off.
.

Check that good quality fuel is
used. Poor fuel quality causes
the engine not to run as
efficiently as designed and may
cause stalling after start-up,
stalling when the vehicle is
changed into gear, misfiring,
hesitation on acceleration,
or stumbling on acceleration.
These conditions might go away
once the engine is warmed up.

diagnostic tools to fix any
mechanical or electrical problems
that might have developed.

Emissions Inspection and
Maintenance Programs
Some local governments may
have programs to inspect the
on-vehicle emission control
equipment. For the inspection,
the emission system test equipment
is connected to the vehicle’s Data
Link Connector (DLC).

If one or more of these conditions
occurs, change the fuel brand used.
It will require at least one full tank of
the proper fuel to turn the light off.
See Recommended Fuel on
page 9‑35.
If none of the above have made the
light turn off, your dealer can check
the vehicle. The dealer has the
proper test equipment and

The DLC is under the instrument
panel to the left of the steering
wheel. See your dealer if assistance
is needed.

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Instruments and Controls
The vehicle may not pass
inspection if:
.

The malfunction indicator lamp is
on with the engine running, or if
the light does not come on when
the ignition is turned to ON/RUN
while the engine is off. See
your dealer for assistance in
verifying proper operation of the
malfunction indicator lamp.
The OBD II (On-Board
Diagnostics) system determines
that critical emission control
systems have not been
completely diagnosed. The
vehicle would be considered not
ready for inspection. This can
happen if the 12-volt battery has
recently been replaced or run
down. The diagnostic system is
designed to evaluate critical
emission control systems during
normal driving. This can take
several days of routine driving.

If this has been done and the
vehicle still does not pass the
inspection for lack of OBD II
system readiness, your dealer
can prepare the vehicle for
inspection.

Service Vehicle Soon
Light

Owner Manual Indicator

This symbol is shown when you
need to see the owner manual
for additional instructions or
information.

Code Set Indicator
For vehicles with this light, it comes
on if a condition exists that may
require the vehicle to be taken in for
service.
If the light comes on, take the
vehicle to your dealer for service as
soon as possible.

5-15

This indicator displays with a
number when a code is set.

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5-16

Black plate (16,1)

Instruments and Controls

Brake System Warning
Light
The vehicle brake system consists
of two hydraulic circuits. If one
circuit is not working, the remaining
circuit can still work to stop the
vehicle. For normal braking
performance, both circuits need to
be working
If the warning light comes on, there
is a brake problem. Have the brake
system inspected right away.

{ WARNING
The brake system might not be
working properly if the brake
system warning light is on.
Driving with the brake system
warning light on can lead to a
crash. If the light is still on after
the vehicle has been pulled off
the road and carefully stopped,
have the vehicle towed for
service.

on, have the vehicle towed for
service. See Towing the Vehicle on
page 10‑77.

Metric

English

Antilock Brake System
(ABS) Warning Light

This light should come on briefly
when the ignition is turned to ON.
If it does not come on then, have it
fixed so it will be ready to warn if
there is a problem.
When the ignition is on, the brake
system warning light will also come
on when the parking brake is set.
The light will stay on if the parking
brake does not fully release. If it
stays on after the parking brake is
fully released, it means there is a
brake problem.
If the light comes on while driving,
carefully pull off the road and stop.
The pedal may be harder to push or
may go closer to the floor. It may
take longer to stop. If the light is still

For vehicles with the Antilock Brake
System (ABS), this light comes on
briefly when the engine is started.
If the light stays on, turn the ignition
to LOCK/OFF or if the light comes
on, stop as soon as possible and
turn the ignition off. Then start the
engine again to reset the system.
If the light still stays on, or comes
on again while driving, the vehicle
needs service. See your dealer.

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Instruments and Controls
If the regular brake system warning
light is not on, the brakes will still
work, but the antilock brakes will not
work. If the regular brake system
warning light is also on, the antilock
brakes will not work and there is a
problem with the regular brakes.
See Brake System Warning Light on
page 5‑16.
The ABS warning light will come on
briefly when the ignition is turned to
ON/RUN. This is normal. If the light
does not come on then, have it fixed
so it will be ready to warn if there is
a problem.

Up-Shift Light

For manual transmission vehicles,
there is an up-shift light that comes
on in the lower DIC area. It shows
when to shift to the next higher gear
for best fuel economy.
See Manual Transmission on
page 9‑26.

5-17

Speed Sensitive Power
Steering (SSPS) Warning
Light

This light comes on briefly when the
engine is started.
If this warning light comes on after
the vehicle ignition is started or
while driving, the speed sensitive
power steering may not be working.
See your dealer for service.

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5-18

Black plate (18,1)

Instruments and Controls

Traction Off Light

This light comes on briefly while
starting the engine. If it does not,
have the vehicle serviced by your
dealer. If the system is working
normally, the indicator light then
turns off.
The traction off light comes on when
the Traction Control System (TCS)
has been turned off by pressing and
releasing the TCS/StabiliTrak
button.
This light and the StabiliTrak OFF
light come on when StabiliTrak is
turned off.
If the TCS is off, wheel spin is not
limited. Adjust driving accordingly.

See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 9‑29 and StabiliTrak®
System on page 9‑31.

StabiliTrak® OFF Light

Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light

This light comes on briefly while
starting the engine. If it does not,
have the vehicle serviced by your
dealer.
This light comes on when the
StabiliTrak system is turned off.
If StabiliTrak is off, the Traction
Control System (TCS) is also off.
If the TCS is off, the system does
not assist in controlling the vehicle.
Turn on the TCS and the StabiliTrak
systems and the warning light
turns off.

The StabiliTrak or Traction Control
System (TCS) indicator/warning
light comes on briefly when the
engine is started.
If the light does not come on, have
the vehicle serviced by your dealer.
If the system is working normally,
the indicator light turns off.
If the light is on and not flashing, the
TCS, and potentially the StabiliTrak
system have been disabled. A DIC
message may display. Check the
DIC messages to determine which

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Instruments and Controls
feature(s) is no longer functioning
and whether the vehicle requires
service.
If the indicator/warning light is on
and flashing, the TCS and/or the
StabiliTrak system is actively
working.
See StabiliTrak® System on
page 9‑31 and Traction Control
System (TCS) on page 9‑29.

Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning
Light

If it does not, have the vehicle
serviced by the dealer. If the system
is working normally the indicator
light goes off.
Notice: Driving with the engine
coolant temperature warning light
on could cause the vehicle to
overheat. See Engine Overheating
on page 10‑19. The vehicle's
engine could be damaged, and it
might not be covered by the
vehicle warranty. Never drive with
the engine coolant temperature
warning light on.
The engine coolant temperature
warning light comes on when the
engine has overheated.
If this happens pull over and turn off
the engine as soon as possible. See
Engine Overheating on page 10‑19.

This light comes on briefly while
starting the vehicle.

5-19

Tire Pressure Light

For vehicles with the Tire Pressure
Monitor System (TPMS), this light
comes on briefly when the engine
is started. It provides information
about tire pressures and the TPMS.
When the Light Is On Steady
This indicates that one or more of
the tires are significantly
underinflated.
Stop as soon as possible, and
inflate the tires to the pressure value
shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire Pressure
on page 10‑44.

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5-20

Black plate (20,1)

Instruments and Controls

When the Light Flashes First and
Then Is On Steady
If the light flashes for about a minute
and then stays on, there may be a
problem with the TPMS. If the
problem is not corrected, the light
will come on at every ignition
cycle. See Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation on page 10‑47.

Engine Oil Pressure Light

covered by the vehicle warranty.
Check the oil level as soon as
possible. Add oil if required,
but if the oil level is within the
operating range and the oil
pressure is still low, have the
vehicle serviced. Always follow
the maintenance schedule for
changing engine oil.

Notice: Lack of proper engine oil
maintenance can damage the
engine. Driving with the engine
oil low can also damage the
engine. The repairs would not be

If the vehicle comes to a hard
stop, the light may come on for a
moment. This is normal.

Low Fuel Warning Light

If the vehicle has low engine oil
pressure, this light will stay on after
the engine is started, or come on
while driving.
This indicates that the engine is not
receiving enough oil. The engine
could be low on oil, or could have
some other oil problem. Have it
fixed immediately by your dealer.

The oil pressure light should come
on briefly as the engine is started.
If it does not come on, have the
vehicle serviced by your dealer.

ignition on, there may be a
problem with the fuse or bulb.
Have it fixed right away.

The oil pressure light could also
come on in other situations:
.

When the ignition is on but the
engine is not running, the light
will come on as a test to show it
is working. The light will go out
when the ignition is turned on.
If it does not come on with the

This light comes on for a few
seconds when the ignition is turned
on as a check to indicate it is
working. If it does not come on,
have it fixed.
This light comes on when the
vehicle is low on fuel.
The low fuel warning light comes
on when there are approximately
6.0 L (1.7 gal) of fuel remaining in
the tank.

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Black plate (21,1)

Instruments and Controls
To turn the light off, add fuel to the
fuel tank. See Filling the Tank on
page 9‑37.

Reduced Engine Power
Light

The vehicle can be driven at a
reduced speed when the reduced
engine power light is on but
acceleration and speed might be
reduced. The performance could
be reduced until the next time the
vehicle is driven. If this light stays
on, see your dealer as soon as
possible for diagnosis and repair.

The reduced engine power light
should come on briefly as the
engine is started. If it does not come
on have the vehicle serviced by
your dealer.

High-Beam On Light

Immobilizer Light

The immobilizer light should come
on briefly as the engine is started.
If it does not come on, have the
vehicle serviced by your dealer.
If the system is working normally,
the indicator light turns off.
If the light stays on and the engine
does not start, there could be a
problem with the immobilizer
system. See Immobilizer Operation
on page 2‑11.

5-21

This light, along with the service
engine soon light, displays when
a noticeable reduction in the
vehicle's performance occurs. Stop
the vehicle and turn off the ignition.
Wait for 10 seconds and restart the
vehicle. This might correct the
condition.

This light comes on when the
high-beam headlamps are in use.
See Headlamp High/Low-Beam
Changer on page 6‑2.

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5-22

Black plate (22,1)

Instruments and Controls

Daytime Running Lamps
(DRL) Indicator Light

The light goes out when the fog
lamps are turned off. See Fog
Lamps on page 6‑4 for more
information.

Cruise Control Light

Lamps On Reminder
The cruise control light is white
when the cruise control is on and
ready, and turns green when the
cruise control is set and active.

This light turns on whenever the
Daytime Running Lamps are in use.
See Daytime Running Lamps (DRL)
on page 6‑2.

Front Fog Lamp Light

For vehicles with fog lamps, this
light comes on when the fog lamps
are on.

The lamps on reminder light comes
on when the exterior lamps are in
use. See Exterior Lamp Controls on
page 6‑1.

The light turns off when the cruise
control is turned off. See Cruise
Control on page 9‑33.

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Black plate (23,1)

Instruments and Controls

Door Ajar Light

Information Displays

5-23

DIC Buttons

Driver Information
Center (DIC)

This light comes on when a door is
open or not securely latched. Before
driving, check that all doors are
properly closed.

The DIC displays information
about your vehicle. It also displays
warning messages if a system
problem is detected. See Vehicle
Messages on page 5‑27. All
messages appear in the DIC
display located in the center of the
instrument panel cluster.

DIC Operation and Displays
The DIC has different displays
which can be accessed by using
the DIC buttons on the turn signal
lever on the left side of the steering
wheel. The DIC displays trip, fuel,
and warning messages if a system
problem is detected.

A. SET/CLR: Press to set or clear
the menu item displayed.
B.

w x (Thumbwheel): Use to
scroll through the menus.

C. MENU: Press to display the DIC
menu. This button is also used
to return to or exit the last
screen displayed on the DIC.

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5-24

Black plate (24,1)

Instruments and Controls

DIC Menu Items

Trip

Press MENU on the turn signal
lever until the DIC menu displays.
Use w x to scroll through the
menu items. Not all items are
available on every vehicle. The
following is a list of all possible
menu items:

This displays the current distance
traveled, in either kilometers (km) or
miles (mi), from the last reset for the
trip odometer. See Trip Odometer
on page 5‑9 for information on
resetting the trip odometer.

Average Speed
English

Trip

Average Speed

Fuel Range

Average Fuel Economy

Timer

Remaining Oil Life

Units

Language

Tire Learn

This display shows the average
speed. To reset the average
speed to zero, press and hold the
SET/CLR button while the average
speed is displayed.

Metric

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Black plate (25,1)

Instruments and Controls
Fuel Range

Average Fuel Economy

5-25

To reset the average fuel economy,
press and hold the SET/CLR button
while the average fuel economy is
displayed.
Timer

Metric Shown, English Similar

Metric

This displays the approximate
distance the vehicle can be driven
without refueling. The fuel range
estimate is based on an average of
the vehicle's fuel economy over
recent driving history and the
amount of fuel remaining in the
fuel tank.
English
This display shows the
approximate average liters per
100 kilometers (L/100 km) or miles
per gallon (mpg). This number is
calculated based on the number of
L/100 km (mpg) recorded since the
last time this menu item was reset.

This display can be used as a timer.
To start the timer, press SET/CLR
while the timer is displayed. The
display will show the amount of time
that has passed since the timer was
last reset, not including time the
ignition is off. The timer will record
up to 99:59 hours, after which the
display will return to zero. To stop
the timer, press SET/CLR briefly
while the timer is displayed. To reset
the timer to zero, press and hold
SET/CLR.

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5-26

Black plate (26,1)

Instruments and Controls

Remaining Oil Life
Press MENU to show the remaining
oil life display. This display shows
an estimate of the oil's remaining
useful life. If 99 : % is displayed,
that means 99% of the current oil
life remains.
When the remaining oil life is low,
the Code 82 message will appear
on the display. The oil should be
changed as soon as possible.
See Engine Oil on page 10‑9. In
addition to the engine oil life system
monitoring the oil life, additional
maintenance is recommended in
the Maintenance Schedule. See
Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3.

Remember, the oil life display must
be reset after each oil change.
It will not reset itself. Also, be
careful not to reset the oil life
display accidentally at any time
other than when the oil has just
been changed. It cannot be reset
accurately until the next oil change.
To reset the engine oil life system,
press the SET/CLR button while the
oil life display is active. See Engine
Oil Life System on page 10‑12.

Language

Units

Press MENU to show the tire learn
display. This display allows for
matching of the TPMS sensors. See
Tire Pressure Monitor System on
page 10‑46 and Tire Pressure
Monitor Operation on page 10‑47.

Press MENU to show the unit
display. Press SET/CLR and
move w x to change units when
UNIT SET is displayed. Press
SET/CLR to confirm the setting. You
will have to select 1, 2, or 3 for the
unit display. 1 is Imperial units, 2 is
US units, and 3 is metric units. This
will change the displays on the
cluster and DIC to the type of
measurements you select.

Press MENU to show the language
display. Press SET/CLR and
move w x to change the language
of the displays when LANG SET
is displayed. You will have to
select 1 or 2 for the language
display. 1 is Alphabet and 2 is
Arabic Numeral. Press SET/CLR to
confirm the setting.
Tire Learn

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Instruments and Controls

Vehicle Messages
DIC messages display when the
status of the vehicle has changed
and action may be needed to
correct the condition. Multiple
messages appear one after another.
Press any of the DIC buttons on the
turn signal lever to acknowledge
and clear them from the display.
More urgent messages cannot
be cleared from the DIC display.
All messages should be taken
seriously. Clearing messages will
not correct the problem.
Vehicle messages appear as code
numbers.
15: Center High Mounted Brake
Lamp Failure
16: Service Brake Lamps
18: Left Low Beam Failure

20: Right Low Beam Failure
21: Left Front Position Lamp
Failure
22: Right Front Position Lamp
Failure
23: Reversing Lamp Failure
24: License Plate Lamp Failure
25: Left Front Turn Indicator Failure
26: Left Rear Turn Indicator Failure
27: Right Front Turn Indicator
Failure
28: Right Rear Turn Indicator
Failure
82: Change Engine Oil Soon
84: Engine Power Is Reduced
89: Service Vehicle Soon

5-27

Vehicle
Personalization
The audio system controls are
used to access the personalization
menus for customizing vehicle
features.
CONFIG (Configuration): Press
to access the Configuration
Settings menu.
MENU/TUNE: Turn to scroll
through the menus. Press to enter
the menus and select the menu
items.

/ BACK:

Press to exit or move
backward in a menu.
Entering the Personalization
Menus
1. Press CONFIG to access the
Configuration Settings menu.
2. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
highlight Vehicle Settings.
3. Press MENU/TUNE to select the
Vehicle Settings menu.

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5-28

Black plate (28,1)

Instruments and Controls

The following list of menu items may
be available:
.

Comfort and Convenience

Climate and Air Quality

Language

Lighting

Power Door Locks

Remote Lock, Unlock, Start

Return to Factory Settings

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
highlight the menu. Press MENU/
TUNE to select it. Each of the
menus is detailed in the following
information.

Comfort and Convenience
Select the Comfort and
Convenience menu and the
following will be displayed:
.

Chime Volume

Auto Wipe in Reverse Gear

Chime Volume

Language

This allows selection of the chime
volume level.

Select the Language menu and the
following will be displayed:

Press MENU/TUNE when Chime
Volume is highlighted. Turn the
MENU/TUNE knob to select Normal
or High. Press MENU/TUNE to
confirm and go back to the
last menu.

English

French

Spanish

Auto Wipe in Reverse Gear
When on and the vehicle on, this
feature will turn the rear wipers
on when the vehicle is placed in
R (Reverse) when the front wipers
are on.
Press MENU/TUNE when
Auto Wipe in Reverse Gear is
highlighted. Turn the MENU/TUNE
knob to select On or Off. Press
MENU/TUNE to confirm and go
back to the last menu.

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
select the language. Press MENU/
TUNE to confirm and go back to the
last menu.

Exterior Lighting
Select the Lighting menu and the
following will be displayed:
.

Exterior Vehicle Locator Lights

Exit Lighting

Exterior Vehicle Locator Lights
This allows selection of whether the
exterior lamps will turn on when
unlocking the vehicle.

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Instruments and Controls
Press MENU/TUNE when
Exterior Vehicle Locator Lights is
highlighted. Turn the MENU/TUNE
knob to select On or Off. Press
MENU/TUNE to confirm and go
back to the last menu.
Exit Lighting
Press MENU/TUNE when Exit
Lighting is highlighted. Turn the
MENU/TUNE knob to select Off,
30 Seconds, 1 Minute, or 2 Minutes.
Press MENU/TUNE to confirm and
go back to the last menu.

Power Door Locks
Select Power Door Locks and the
following will be displayed:
.

Auto Door Unlock

Unlock Door Anti Lock Out

Delayed Door Lock

5-29

Auto Door Unlock

Delayed Door Lock

This allows selection of which of the
doors will automatically unlock when
the vehicle is shifted into P (Park) or
the key is removed.

When on, this feature will delay
the locking of the doors until
five seconds after the last door is
closed. Three chimes will signal
that delayed locking is in use.
Pressing either Q or K on the
RKE transmitter twice will override
the delayed locking feature and
immediately lock all of the doors.

Press MENU/TUNE when Auto
Door Unlock is highlighted. Turn the
MENU/TUNE knob to select All
Doors, Driver Door, or Off. Press
MENU/TUNE to confirm and go
back to the last menu.
Unlock Door Anti Lock Out
When on, this feature will keep the
driver door from locking when the
door is open. If off is selected, the
Unlock Door Anti Lock Out menu
will be available and the door will
lock as programmed through
this menu.
Press MENU/TUNE when Unlock
Door Anti Lock Out is highlighted.
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
select On or Off. Press MENU/
TUNE to confirm and go back to the
last menu.

Press MENU/TUNE when Delayed
Door Lock is highlighted. Turn the
MENU/TUNE knob to select On or
Off. Press MENU/TUNE to confirm
and go back to the last menu.

Remote Lock, Unlock, Start
Select Remote Lock, Unlock, Start
and the following will be displayed:
.

Remote Unlock Feedback

Remote Lock Feedback

Remote Door Unlock

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5-30

Black plate (30,1)

Instruments and Controls

Remote Unlock Feedback

Remote Door Unlock

Return to Factory Settings

When on, the exterior lamps will
flash when unlocking the vehicle
with the RKE transmitter.

This allows selection of which doors
will unlock when pressing K on the
RKE transmitter.

Press MENU/TUNE when Remote
Unlock Feedback is highlighted.
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
select On or Off. Press MENU/
TUNE to confirm and go back to the
last menu.

Press MENU/TUNE when Remote
Door Unlock is highlighted. Turn the
MENU/TUNE knob to select All
Doors or Driver Door Only. When
set to Driver Door Only, the driver
door will unlock the first time K is
pressed and all doors will unlock
when K is pressed a second time.
When set to All Doors, all of the
doors will unlock at the first press
of K. Press MENU/TUNE to confirm
and go back to the last menu.

Select Return to Factory Settings
to return all of the vehicle
personalization to the default
settings. Turn the MENU/TUNE
knob to select Yes or No. Press
MENU/TUNE to confirm and go
back to the last menu.

Remote Lock Feedback
This allows selection of what type of
feedback is given when locking the
vehicle with the RKE transmitter.
Press MENU/TUNE when Remote
Lock Feedback is highlighted. Turn
the MENU/TUNE knob to select
Lights and Horn, Lights Only, Horn
Only, or Off. Press MENU/TUNE
to confirm and go back to the
last menu.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

Lighting

Lighting
Exterior Lighting
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . 6-1
Headlamp High/Low-Beam
Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Automatic Headlamp
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . 6-4
Turn and Lane-Change
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4

Interior Lighting
Instrument Panel Illumination
Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Courtesy Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6-5
6-5
6-6
6-6

Lighting Features
Battery Load Management . . . . 6-6
Battery Power Protection . . . . . . 6-7

6-1

Exterior Lighting

The exterior lamps control has
four positions:

Exterior Lamp Controls

O (Off): Briefly turn to this position
to turn the automatic light control off
or on again.
AUTO (Automatic): Turns the
headlamps on automatically at
normal brightness, together with the
following:

The exterior lamps control is located
on the instrument panel to the
outboard side of the steering
column.
It controls the following systems:
.

Headlamps

Taillamps

.
.

Parking Lamps
License Plate Lamps

Instrument Panel Lights

Fog Lamps

Parking Lamps

Taillamps

License Plate Lamps

Instrument Panel Lights

Sidemarker Lamps

; (Parking Lamps):

Turns the
parking lamps on together with the
following:

Taillamps

License Plate Lamps

Instrument Panel Lights

Sidemarker Lamps

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

6-2

Black plate (2,1)

Lighting

5 (Headlamps): Turns the
headlamps on together with the
lamps listed below. A warning chime
sounds if the driver door is opened
when the ignition switch is off and
the headlamps are on.
.

Parking Lamps

Taillamps

License Plate Lamps

Instrument Panel Lights

Sidemarker Lamps

# (Front Fog Lamps): For
vehicles with fog lamps, press to
turn the lamps on or off.
See Fog Lamps on page 6‑4.

Headlamp High/
Low-Beam Changer

Flash-to-Pass
To flash the high beams, pull the
turn signal/lane change lever all the
way toward you. Then release it.

Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL)
3 (Headlamp High/Low‐Beam
Changer): Push the turn signal/
lane change lever away from you to
turn the high beams on.

Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can
make it easier for others to see the
front of your vehicle during the day.
Fully functional daytime running
lamps are required on all vehicles
first sold in Canada.

Push the lever again or pull the
lever toward you to return to low
beams.

When the lights are on, ; will be
lit. See Lamps On Reminder on
page 5‑22.
This indicator light turns on in the
instrument panel cluster when the
DRL are on.
This indicator light turns on in the
instrument panel cluster when the
high‐beam headlamps are on.

A light sensor on top of the
instrument panel makes the DRL
work, so be sure it is not covered.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

Lighting
The DRL system makes the
low‐beam headlamps come on
at a reduced brightness when the
following conditions are met:
.

The ignition is in the
ON/RUN mode.

The exterior lamps control is
in AUTO.

The engine is running.

When the DRL are on, only the low‐
beam headlamps, at a reduced level
of brightness, will be on. The
taillamps, sidemarker, instrument
panel, and other lamps will not
be on.
The headlamps automatically
change from DRL to the regular
headlamps depending on the
darkness of the surroundings. The
other lamps that come on with the
headlamps will also come on.

6-3

When it is bright enough outside,
the headlamps go off and the DRL
come on.
To turn the DRL lamps off or on
again, turn the exterior lamps
control to the off position and then
release. For vehicles first sold in
Canada, the DRL lamps cannot be
turned off.

Automatic Headlamp
System
When it is dark enough outside and
the exterior lamps control is in the
automatic position, the headlamps
come on automatically. See Exterior
Lamp Controls on page 6‑1.

The vehicle has a light sensor
located on top of the instrument
panel. Make sure it is not covered,
or the headlamps will be on when
they are not needed.
The system may also turn on the
headlamps when driving through a
parking garage or tunnel.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

6-4

Black plate (4,1)

Lighting

Hazard Warning Flashers

Turn and Lane-Change
Signals

If after signaling a turn or lane
change the arrow flashes rapidly or
does not come on, a signal bulb
may be burned out. Replace any
burned out bulbs. If the bulb is not
burned out, check the fuse. See
Fuses and Circuit Breakers on
page 10‑33 or Bulb Replacement on
page 10‑28 for more information.

Fog Lamps

| (Hazard Warning Flasher):
Press and momentarily hold this
button located on the center stack
above the climate control system, to
make the front and rear turn signal
lamps flash on and off. This warns
others that you are having trouble.
Press and momentarily hold again
to turn the flashers off.

An arrow on the instrument panel
cluster will flash in the direction of
the turn or lane change.
Move the lever all the way up or
down to signal a turn.
Raise or lower the lever until the
arrow starts to flash to signal a lane
change. The turn signal flashes
three times.
The lever returns to its starting
position when it is released.

For vehicles with front fog lamps,
the button is located on the
outboard side of the instrument
panel.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (5,1)

Lighting
The ignition must be on to turn on
the fog lamps.

Interior Lighting

# (Fog Lamps):

Instrument Panel
Illumination Control

Press to turn the
fog lamps on or off. An indicator
light on the instrument panel cluster
comes on when the fog lamps
are on.

D (Instrument Panel
Brightness): Move the
thumbwheel up or down and hold,
to brighten or dim the instrument
panel controls and infotainment
display screen.

Courtesy Lamps

The fog lamps come on together
with the parking lamps.

The courtesy lamps come on
automatically when any door is
opened and the dome lamp is in the
DOOR position.

If the high‐beam headlamps are
turned on, the fog lamps will turn off.
If the high‐beam headlamps are
turned off, the fog lamps will turn
back on again.
Some localities have laws that
require the headlamps to be on
along with the fog lamps.

6-5

This feature controls the brightness
of the instrument panel controls and
infotainment display screen. The
thumbwheel is located to the left
of the steering column on the
instrument panel.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

6-6

Black plate (6,1)

Lighting

Dome Lamps

Reading Lamps

Lighting Features
Battery Load
Management
The vehicle has Electric Power
Management (EPM) that estimates
the battery's temperature and state
of charge. It then adjusts the voltage
for best performance and extended
life of the battery.

For vehicles with front reading
lamps, they are located in the
overhead console.
The dome lamp controls are located
in the headliner above the rear
seats.

9 (Dome Lamp Override): Press
to turn the lamps off, even when a
door is open.
H (Door): Press to turn the lamps
on automatically when a door is
opened.
R (On):
lamps.

Press to turn on the dome

# or $ : Press to turn each lamp
on or off.

When the battery's state of charge
is low, the voltage is raised slightly
to quickly bring the charge back up.
When the state of charge is high,
the voltage is lowered slightly to
prevent overcharging. If the vehicle
has a voltmeter gauge or a voltage
display on the Driver Information
Center (DIC), you may see the
voltage move up or down. This is
normal. If there is a problem, an
alert will be displayed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

Lighting
The battery can be discharged at
idle if the electrical loads are very
high. This is true for all vehicles.
This is because the generator
(alternator) may not be spinning fast
enough at idle to produce all the
power needed for very high
electrical loads.
A high electrical load occurs when
several of the following are on,
such as: headlamps, high beams,
fog lamps, rear window defogger,
climate control fan at high speed,
heated seats, engine cooling fans,
trailer loads, and loads plugged into
accessory power outlets.

EPM works to prevent excessive
discharge of the battery. It does this
by balancing the generator's output
and the vehicle's electrical needs.
It can increase engine idle speed to
generate more power, whenever
needed. It can temporarily reduce
the power demands of some
accessories.
Normally, these actions occur in
steps or levels, without being
noticeable. In rare cases at the
highest levels of corrective action,
this action may be noticeable to the
driver.

6-7

Battery Power Protection
The battery saver feature is
designed to protect the vehicle's
battery.
If some interior lamps are left on
and the ignition is turned off, the
battery rundown protection system
automatically turns the lamp off after
some time.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

6-8

Black plate (8,1)

Lighting

2 NOTES

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

Infotainment System

Infotainment
System

Audio Players
CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
Auxiliary Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16
Bluetooth Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19

Phone

Introduction
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . .
Overview (AM-FM Radio) . . . . .
Overview (Radio with
CD/USB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7-1
7-2
7-2
7-4
7-5

Bluetooth (Overview) . . . . . . . . 7-19
Bluetooth (Infotainment
Controls) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21
Bluetooth (Voice
Recognition) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25

Introduction
Infotainment
Determine which radio the vehicle
has and read the following pages to
become familiar with its features.

{ WARNING
Taking your eyes off the road for
extended periods could cause a
crash resulting in injury or death
to you or others. Do not give
extended attention to infotainment
tasks while driving.

Radio
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
Fixed Mast Antenna . . . . . . . . . 7-13
Satellite Radio Antenna . . . . . . 7-13

7-1

This system provides access to
many audio and non-audio listings.
To minimize taking your eyes off the
road while driving, do the following
while the vehicle is parked:
.

Become familiar with the
operation and controls of the
audio system.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

7-2
.

Infotainment System

Set up the tone, speaker
adjustments, and preset radio
stations.

See Defensive Driving on page 9‑3.
Notice: Contact your dealer
before adding any equipment.
Adding audio or communication
equipment could interfere with
the operation of the engine, radio,
or other systems, and could
damage them. Follow federal
rules covering mobile radio and
telephone equipment.

Theft-Deterrent Feature
The theft-deterrent feature works by
learning a portion of the Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN) to
the infotainment system. The
infotainment system does not
operate if it is stolen or moved to a
different vehicle.

Overview (AM-FM Radio)

Black plate (2,1)

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

Infotainment System
A. FAV 1-2-3 (Favorites)
.

Radio: Opens the
favorites list.

O /VOL (Power/Volume)
.

Turns the system on or off
and adjusts the volume.

MENU/TUNE
.

Radio: Manually selects
radio stations.

CD: Selects tracks.

G. RADIO/BAND
.

C. Buttons 1−6
.

D. SEEK
.

Radio: Seeks the next
station.

CD: Selects the next track
or fast forwards within a
track.

Radio: Saves and selects
favorite stations.

CD: Selects the previous
track or rewinds within a
track.

Selects the radio when
listening to a different
audio source.

/ BACK

5 / > (Phone Mute)
.

Opens the Phone
main menu.

Mutes the audio system.

TONE
.

Opens the Tone menu.

M. INFO (Information)
.

Radio: Shows available
information about the
current station.

CD: Shows available
information about the
current track.

Menu: Moves one
level back.

Character Input: Deletes
the last character.

N. CONFIG (Configuration)

Selects external audio
source.

O. AUX Port

AUX
.

Radio: Seeks the previous
station.

Changes the band while
listening to the radio.

H (Clock Menu)
.

Opens the Clock menu.

7-3

Opens the
Configuration menu.
3.5 mm (1/8 in) connection
for external devices.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

7-4

Black plate (4,1)

Infotainment System

Overview (Radio with CD/USB)

O /VOL (Power/Volume)
.

Turns the system on or off
and adjusts the volume.

Z (Eject)
.

Removes a disc from the
CD slot.

C. Buttons 1−6
.

Radio: Saves and selects
favorite stations.

D. AUX Port
.

3.5 mm (1/8 in) connection
for external devices.

E. MENU/TUNE

Radio: Manually selects
radio stations.

CD: Selects tracks.

FAV 1-2-3 (Favorites)
.

Radio: Opens the
favorites list.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (5,1)

Infotainment System
G. INFO (Information)
.

Radio: Shows available
information about the
current station.
CD: Shows available
information about the
current track.

H. CD Slot
I.

SEEK

Radio: Seeks the next
station.

CD: Selects the next track
or fast forwards within a
track.

RADIO/BAND
.

Changes the band while
listening to the radio.

Selects the radio when
listening to a different
audio source.

H (Clock Menu)
.

Opens the Clock menu.

N. TONE
.

Opens the Tone menu.

O. CONFIG (Configuration)
.

Opens the
Configuration menu.

/ BACK

Radio: Seeks the previous
station.

Menu: Moves one
level back.

CD: Selects the previous
track or rewinds within a
track.

Character Input: Deletes
the last character.

K. CD/AUX
.

Selects the CD player or
an external audio source.

5 / > (Phone/Mute)
.

Opens the Phone menu.

Mutes the audio system.

7-5

Operation
Controls
The infotainment system is
operated by using the pushbuttons,
multifunction knobs, menus shown
on the display, and steering wheel
controls, if equipped.

Turning the System On or Off

O /VOL (Power/Volume): Press to
turn the system on and off.
Automatic Switch-Off
If the infotainment system is on after
the ignition is turned off, the system
will turn off automatically after
10 minutes.

Volume Control

O /VOL (Power/Volume): Turn to
adjust the volume.
5 / > (Phone/Mute): For vehicles
with OnStar, press and hold 5 / >
to mute the infotainment system.
Press and hold 5 / > again, or turn
the O /VOL knob to cancel mute.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

7-6

Black plate (6,1)

Infotainment System

For vehicles without OnStar,
press 5 / > to mute the
infotainment system. Press 5 / >
again, or turn the O /VOL knob to
cancel mute.

MENU/TUNE Button:
Press to:
.

Select or activate the highlighted
menu option.

Confirm a set value.

Menu System

Turn a system setting on or off.

Controls

/ BACK:

The MENU/TUNE knob, MENU/
TUNE button, and / BACK button
are used to navigate the menu
system.

Press to:

MENU/TUNE Knob:
Turn to:
.

Enter the menu system.

Highlight a menu option.

Select a value.

Selecting a Menu Option

Exit a menu.

Return from a submenu screen
to the previous menu screen.

Delete the last character in a
sequence.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
move the highlighted bar.
2. Press the MENU/TUNE button to
select the highlighted option.
Submenus

An arrow on the right-hand edge of
the menu indicates that it has a
submenu with other options.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

Infotainment System
Activating a Setting

Audio Settings
The audio settings can be set for
each radio band and each audio
player source.

Adjusting the Treble, Midrange,
and Bass

To quickly reset an audio setting
value to 0:
1. Press the TONE button.
1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
highlight the setting.
2. Press the MENU/TUNE button to
activate the setting.
Entering a Character Sequence

2. Select the audio setting.
3. Press and hold the MENU/TUNE
button until the value changes
to 0.
Press the / BACK button to go
back to the Tone Settings menu.

1. Press the TONE button.
2. Select Treble, Midrange,
or Bass.
3. Turn the MENU/TUNE
knob to select the value
between -12 and +12.
Press the / BACK button to go
back to the Tone Settings menu.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
highlight the setting.
2. Press the MENU/TUNE button to
select the character.

7-7

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

7-8

Black plate (8,1)

Infotainment System

Adjusting the Fader and Balance

System Settings

Auto Volume

1. Press the TONE button.

Configuring the Number of
Favorite Pages

The auto volume feature
automatically adjusts the radio
volume to compensate for road and
wind noise as the vehicle speeds up
or slows down, so that the volume
level is consistent.

2. Select Fader or Balance.
3. Turn the MENU/TUNE
knob to select the value
between -15 and +15.
Press the / BACK button to go
back to the Tone Settings menu.
Adjusting the EQ (Equalizer)

The level of volume compensation
can be selected, or the auto volume
feature can be turned off.

For vehicles with an equalizer:

To configure the number of available
favorite pages:

1. Press the TONE button.

1. Press the MENU/TUNE button.

2. Select EQ.

2. Select FM menu.

3. Select the setting for Pop, Rock,
Classical, Talk, or Country.

3. Select Favorites list.

Press the / BACK button to go
back to the Tone Settings menu.

4. Select the number of available
favorite pages.
5. Press the / BACK button to go
back to the System
Configuration menu.

1. Press the MENU/TUNE button.
2. Select Radio Settings.
3. Select Auto volume control.
4. Select the setting.
5. Press the / BACK button
to go back to the System
Configuration menu.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

Infotainment System

Radio

FAV 1-2-3: Press to open the
favorites list and select the
favorites page.

7-9

Selecting a Band

Control Buttons

1−6: Press to select preset
stations.

Press the RADIO/BAND button to
choose AM, FM, or XM, if equipped.
The last station that was playing
starts playing again.

The buttons used to control the
radio are:

RDS (Radio Data System)

Selecting a Station

The radio may have RDS. The RDS
feature is available for use only on
FM stations that broadcast RDS
information. This feature only works
when the information from the radio
station is available. In rare cases,
a radio station could broadcast
incorrect information that causes the
radio features to work improperly.
If this happens, contact the radio
station.

Seek Tuning

AM-FM Radio

P /VOL: Press to turn the radio on
and off.
RADIO/BAND: Press to choose
between AM, FM, and XM,
if equipped.
MENU/TUNE Knob: Turn to
navigate the available menus. Turn
to search for stations.
INFO: Press to display additional
information that may be available for
the current song.
SEEK ¨ : Press to search for the
next station.

Press to search for the
previous station.

While the radio is tuned to an
FM-RDS station, the station name
or call letters display.

Radio Menus

If the radio station is not known:
Briefly press SEEK ¨ or © SEEK to
automatically search for the next
available station. If a station is not
found, the radio switches to a more
sensitive search level. If a station
still is not found, the frequency that
was last active begins to play.
If the radio station is known:
Press and hold SEEK ¨ or © SEEK
until the station on the display is
reached, then release the button.

Radio menus are available for AM
and FM.

Favorites List

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to open
the main radio menu for that band.

2. Select Favorites List.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.
3. Select the station.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

7-10

Black plate (10,1)

Infotainment System

Station Lists
1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.
2. Select AM or FM Station List. All
receivable stations in the current
reception area are displayed. If a
station list has not been created,
an automatic station search
is done.

3. Select the programming type.
A list of stations that transmit
programming of the selected
type displays.
4. Select the station.
The category lists are updated
when the station lists are
updated.

Storing a Station as a Favorite
Stations from all bands can be
stored in any order in the favorite
pages.
Up to six stations can be stored in
each favorite page and the number
of available favorite pages can
be set.

3. The first station in the list
will play.

Updating Station and Category
Lists

Category Lists

If stations stored in the station list
can no longer be received:

To store the station to a position in
the list, press the corresponding
button 1 to 6 until a beep is heard.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.

Retrieving Stations

2. Select Update AM or FM Station
List, if the stations stored in
the station list are no longer
received. A station search will be
completed and the first station in
the updated list will play.

Press the FAV 1-2-3 button to open
a favorite page or to switch to
another favorite page. Briefly press
one of the 1 to 6 buttons to retrieve
the station.

Most stations that broadcast an
RDS program type code specify the
type of programming transmitted.
Some stations change the program
type code depending on the
content. The system stores the RDS
stations sorted by program type in
the FM category list.
To search for a programming type
determined by station:
1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.
2. Select FM category list. A list of
all available programming types
displays.

To cancel the station search, press
the MENU/TUNE button.

Storing Stations

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (11,1)

Infotainment System

Satellite Radio

Storing an XM Channel

XM Satelite Radio Service

Drivers are encouraged to set up
XM channel favorites while the
vehicle is not moving. Tune to
favorite stations using the
pushbuttons, favorites button, and
steering wheel controls. See
Defensive Driving on page 9‑3.

XM is a satellite radio service based
in the 48 contiguous United States
and 10 Canadian provinces. XM
Satellite Radio has a wide variety of
programming and commercial-free
music, coast to coast, and in
digital-quality sound. A service
fee is required to receive the XM
service. For more information,
contact XM at www.xmradio.com
or 1-800-929-2100 in the U.S.,
and www.xmradio.ca or
1-877-438-9677 in Canada.

SEEK ¨ : Press to seek the next
XM channel.

A maximum of 36 stations can be
programmed as favorites using the
six pushbuttons positioned below
the radio station frequency labels
and by using the radio favorites
page button (FAV 1-2-3 button).
Press the FAV 1-2-3 button to go
through up to six pages of favorites,
each having six favorite stations
available per page. Each page
of favorites can contain any
combination of AM, FM, or XM
channels. To store an XM channel
as a favorite:

1. Tune in the desired channel.

MENU/TUNE: Turn to go to the
next XM channel.

2. Press and release the
FAV 1-2-3 button to display
the page where the channel is to
be stored.

Finding a Channel
BAND: Press to choose XM. The
display will show the selection.

Press to seek the
previous XM channel.

7-11

3. Press and hold one of the
six numbered pushbuttons until
a beep sounds. When the
pushbutton is pressed and
released, the channel that was
set will return.
4. Repeat Steps 1−3 for each XM
channel to be stored as a
favorite.
To set up the number of favorites
pages:
1. Press and hold FAV 1-2-3 until
the radio setup menu displays.
2. Select the desired number of
favorites pages by pressing the
pushbutton located below the
displayed page numbers.
3. Press FAV 1-2-3 to return to
the original main radio screen
showing the radio frequency
tabs and to begin the process of
programming favorites for the
chosen number of numbered
pages.

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7-12

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Infotainment System

XM Radio Messages
UPDATING: The encryption code
in the receiver is being updated, and
no action is required. This process
should take no longer than
30 seconds.
NO SIGNAL: The system is
functioning correctly, but the vehicle
is in a location that is blocking the
XM signal. When the vehicle is
moved into an open area, the signal
should return.
LOADING: The audio system is
acquiring and processing audio and
text data. No action is needed. This
message should disappear shortly.
OFF AIR: This channel is not
currently in service. Tune in to
another channel.
CH UNAVAILABLE: This
previously assigned channel is no
longer assigned. Tune to another
station. If this station was one of the
presets, choose another station for
that preset button.

RADIO ID: If tuned to channel 0,
this message alternates with the XM
Radio eight-digit radio ID label. This
label is needed to activate the
service.
CHECK XM TUNER: If this
message does not clear within a
short period of time, the receiver
could have a fault. Consult with your
dealer.

Radio Reception
Frequency interference and static
can occur during normal radio
reception if items such as cell phone
chargers, vehicle convenience
accessories, and external electronic
devices are plugged into the
accessory power outlet. If there is
interference or static, unplug the
item from the accessory power
outlet.

AM
The range for most AM stations is
greater than for FM, especially at
night. The longer range can cause
station frequencies to interfere
with each other. For better radio
reception, most AM radio stations
boost the power levels during the
day, and then reduce these levels
during the night. Static can also
occur when things like storms and
power lines interfere with radio
reception. When this happens, try
reducing the treble on the radio.

FM Stereo
FM signals only reach about 16 to
65 km (10 to 40 mi). Although the
radio has a built-in electronic circuit
that automatically works to reduce
interference, some static can occur,
especially around tall buildings or
hills, causing the sound to fade in
and out.

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Infotainment System
XM Satellite Radio Service

Fixed Mast Antenna

XM Satellite Radio Service gives
digital radio reception from coast to
coast in the 48 contiguous United
States, and in Canada. Just as
with FM, tall buildings or hills can
interfere with satellite radio signals,
causing the sound to fade in and
out. In addition, traveling or standing
under heavy foliage, bridges,
garages, or tunnels may cause loss
of the XM signal for a period of time.

Vehicles without OnStar have a
fixed mast antenna that can
withstand most car washes
without being damaged. If the
mast should ever become slightly
bent, straighten it out by hand. If the
mast is badly bent, replace it.

Cellular Phone Usage
Cellular phone usage may cause
interference with the vehicle's radio.
This interference may occur when
making or receiving phone calls,
charging the phone's battery,
or simply having the phone on. This
interference causes an increased
level of static while listening to the
radio. If static is received while
listening to the radio, unplug the
cellular phone and turn it off.

Check occasionally to make sure
the mast is still tightened to the
antenna base located on the roof of
the vehicle. If tightening is required,
tighten by hand.

Satellite Radio Antenna
The XM Satellite Radio antenna is
located on the roof of the vehicle.
Keep the antenna clear of
obstructions for clear radio
reception.
If the vehicle has a sunroof, the
performance of the XM system
(if equipped) may be affected if the
sunroof is open.

7-13

Audio Players
CD Player
The CD player can play audio CDs
and MP3 CDs.
The CD player will not play
8 cm (3 in) CDs.
Care of CDs
Sound quality can be reduced due
to disc quality, recording method,
quality of the music recorded, and
how the disc has been handled.
Handle discs carefully and store
them in their original cases or other
protective cases away from direct
sunlight and dust. If the bottom
surface of a disc is damaged, the
disc may not play properly or at all.
Do not touch the bottom surface of
a disc while handling it; this could
damage the surface. Pick up discs
by grasping the outer edges or the
edge of the hole and the outer edge.

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7-14

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Infotainment System

If the bottom surface of a disc is
dirty, take a soft, lint‐free cloth,
or dampen a clean, soft cloth in a
mild neutral detergent solution
mixed with water, and clean it. Wipe
the disc from the center to the
outer edge.
Care of the CD Player
Do not add a label to a disc, as it
could get caught in the CD player.
If a label is needed, label the
top of the recorded disc with a
marking pen.
Do not use disc lens cleaners
because they could contaminate the
lens of the disc optics and damage
the CD player.

Notice: If a label is added to a
CD, more than one CD is inserted
into the slot at a time, or an
attempt is made to play scratched
or damaged CDs, the CD player
could be damaged. While using
the CD player, use only CDs in
good condition without any label,
load one CD at a time, and keep
the CD player and the loading slot
free of foreign materials, liquids,
and debris.

Control Buttons
The buttons used to control the CD
player are:

INFO: Press to display additional
information about the current track
that may be available.
MENU/TUNE: Turn to select tracks.
Turn to enter the menu. Press to
select the menu.

Z (Eject):

Press to eject the disc.

Inserting a CD
With the printed side facing up,
insert a disc into the CD slot until it
is drawn in.

Removing a CD
Press

CD/AUX: Press to use the CD
player.

The disc is pushed out of the
CD slot.

SEEK ¨ or © SEEK: Press to
select tracks or to fast forward or
rewind within a track.

If the disc is not removed after it is
ejected, it is pulled back in after a
few seconds.

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Infotainment System
Playing a CD or MP3 CD

Fast Forward and Rewind

Tracks can be searched by:

Press the CD/AUX button. If there
is a disc in the player, it begins
playing.

Press and hold SEEK ¨ or © SEEK
to fast forward or rewind within the
current track.

Playlists

Artists

Information about the disc and
current track is shown on the
display depending on the data
stored.

Albums

Selecting an MP3 Track

Song Titles

Using the control buttons:

Genres

Folder View

Selecting a CD Track
Using the control buttons:
.

Press SEEK ¨ or © SEEK to
select the next or previous track.
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.

Press SEEK ¨ or © SEEK to
select the next or previous track.

Using the CD Menu:

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.

2. Select Playlists/Folders.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.

7-15

To search for tracks:
1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.
2. Select Search.

Using the CD Menu:

3. Select the playlist or folder.

3. Select: Playlists, Artists,
Albums, Song Titles, Genres,
or Folder View.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.

4. Select the track.

2. Select Tracks List.

Searching for MP3 Tracks

3. Select the track.

The search feature may take some
time to display the information after
reading the disc due to the amount
of information stored on the disc.
FM automatically plays while the
disc is being read.

Playing Tracks in Random Order
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Shuffle Songs to On.

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7-16

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Infotainment System

Auxiliary Devices

Adjusting the Volume

The optional AUX input allows
portable devices to connect to the
vehicle using the 3.5 mm (1/8 in)
input jack or the USB port. The AUX
input jack, if equipped, is located in
the storage area to the right of the
infotainment system. A second AUX
input is located on the front of the
infotainment system. See Overview
(AM-FM Radio) on page 7‑2 or
Overview (Radio with CD/USB) on
page 7‑4.

Turn the O /VOL knob to adjust the
volume of the infotainment system
after the volume level has been set
on the portable audio device.

Portable devices are controlled by
using the menu system described in
Operation on page 7‑5.

USB Port
For vehicles with a USB port, the
following devices may be connected
and controlled by the infotainment
system:
.

iPods

PlaysForSure Devices (PFDs)

B. USB Port

USB Drives

3.5 mm Jack

Zunes™

Connect a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) cable to
the auxiliary input jack to use a
portable audio player.

Not all iPods, PFDs, USB Drives,
and Zunes are compatible with the
infotainment system.

A. 3.5 mm (1/8 in) Auxiliary
Input Jack

Playback of an audio device that is
connected to the 3.5 mm (1/8 in)
jack can only be controlled using
the controls on the device.

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Infotainment System
Connecting and Controlling
an iPod®

7-17

3. Select: Playlists, Artists, Albums,
Song Titles, Podcasts, Genres,
Audiobooks, or Composers.

Connecting and Controlling a
PlaysForSure Device (PFD)
or Zune™

4. Select the track.

Connecting a PFD or Zune

Connecting an iPod

Shuffle

Connect the iPod to the USB port.

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Shuffle Songs (Random) to On or
Off, then press the / BACK button
to return to the main screen.

Connect the PFD or Zune to the
USB port.

Not all iPods can be controlled by
the infotainment system.

Searching for a Track
Tracks can be searched for by:
.
.
.
.
.
.

Playlists
Artists
Albums
Song Titles
Podcasts
Genres

Audiobooks

Composers

To search for tracks:
1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.
2. Select Search.

Searching for a Track
Tracks can be searched for by:
.

Playlists

Artists

Off: Plays tracks in the current
folder in sequential order.

Albums

Song Titles

Repeat

Podcasts

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Repeat to On or Off, then press the
/ BACK button to return to the main
screen.

Genres

To search for tracks:

On: Repeats the current track.

2. Select Search.

Off: Playback starts from the
beginning of the current track after
the last track finishes.

3. Select: Playlists, Artists, Albums,
Song Titles, Podcasts,
or Genres.

On: Plays tracks in the current
folder in random order.

1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.

4. Select the track.

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7-18

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Infotainment System

Shuffle Functionality
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Shuffle Songs (Random) to On
or Off.
On: Plays current tracks in random
order.
Off: Plays current tracks in
sequential order.
Repeat Functionality
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Repeat to On or Off.
Repeat On: Repeats the current
track.
Repeat Off: Playback starts from
the beginning of the current track
after the last track finishes.

Connecting and Controlling a
USB Drive
The infotainment system can only
play back .mp3 and .wma files from
a USB drive.
Only the first 2,500 songs are
recognized on the device.

When a device is not supported, the
message “No supported data found.
You can safely disconnect the
device” appears.
Connecting a USB Drive
Connect the USB drive to the
USB port.
Searching for a Track
It is normal for the search feature to
take some time to display the
information after reading the device
due to the amount of information
stored.
Files that do not have any meta
data stored in the ID3 tag display as
Unknown.
Tracks can be searched for by:

*This only displays if a playlist is
found on the device.
To search for tracks:
1. Turn the MENU/TUNE knob.
2. Select Search.
3. Select: Playlists, Artists, Albums,
Song Titles, Genres,
or Folder View.
4. Select the track.
Shuffle Functionality
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Shuffle Songs (Random) to On
or Off.
On: Plays current tracks in random
order.

Playlists*

Off: Plays current tracks in
sequential order.

Artists

Repeat Functionality

Albums

Song Titles

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob and set
Repeat to On or Off.

Genres

Folder View

Repeat On: Repeats the current
track.

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Infotainment System
Repeat Off: Playback starts from
the beginning of the current track
after the last track finishes.

Bluetooth Audio
Streaming Audio
If equipped, music may be played
from a paired Bluetooth. See
Bluetooth (Voice Recognition) on
page 7‑25 or Bluetooth (Overview)
on page 7‑19 or Bluetooth
(Infotainment Controls) on
page 7‑21 for help pairing a device.
The music can be controlled by
controls on the device.
To play music via Bluetooth:
1. Power on the device, pair, and
connect the device. The device
will displayed “GM Audio
Source.”
2. Once paired, press CD or
CD/AUX to select Bluetooth
Audio.
3. Press the play button on the
device to begin playback.

When selecting Bluetooth audio, the
radio may not be able to launch the
audio player on the connected
device to start playing. When the
vehicle is not moving, choose the
phone to begin playback.
All devices launch audio differently.
When selecting Bluetooth audio as
a source, the radio may show as
paused on the screen. Press play
on the device to begin playback.
Some phones support sending
Bluetooth music information to
display on the radio. When the radio
receives this information, it will
check to see if any album art is
available and display it. For more
information about your phone and
supported Bluetooth features, see
www.gm.com/bluetooth.

7-19

Phone
Bluetooth (Overview)
For vehicles equipped with
Bluetooth capability, the system can
interact with many cell phones,
allowing:
.

Placement and receipt of calls in
a hands-free mode.

Sharing of the cell phone’s
address book or contact list with
the vehicle.

To minimize driver distraction,
before driving, and with the vehicle
parked:
.

Become familiar with the
features of the cell phone.
Organize the phone book and
contact lists clearly and delete
duplicate or rarely used entries.
If possible, program speed dial
or other shortcuts.

Review the controls and
operation of the infotainment
system.

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7-20

Infotainment System

Pair cell phone(s) to the vehicle.
The system may not work with
all cell phones. See “Pairing” in
this section.

If the cell phone has voice
dialing capability, learn to use
that feature to access the
address book or contact list.
See “Voice Pass-Thru” in this
section.

Black plate (20,1)

See “Storing and Deleting Phone
Numbers” in this section.

{ WARNING
When using a cell phone, it can
be distracting to look too long or
too often at the screen of the
phone or the infotainment
(navigation) system. Taking
your eyes off the road too long or
too often could cause a crash
resulting in injury or death. Focus
your attention on driving.

Vehicles with a Bluetooth system
can use a Bluetooth-capable cell
phone with a Hands-Free Profile
to make and receive phone calls.
The infotainment system and voice
recognition are used to control
the system. The system can be
used while in ON/RUN or ACC/
ACCESSORY. The range of the
Bluetooth system can be up to 9.1 m
(30 ft). Not all phones support all
functions and not all phones work
with the Bluetooth system. See
www.gm.com/bluetooth for more
information about compatible
phones.

Bluetooth Controls
Use the buttons located on the
infotainment system and the
steering wheel to operate the
Bluetooth system.
Steering Wheel Controls

b / g (Push to Talk): Press to
answer incoming calls, confirm
system information, and start voice
recognition.

$ / i (Mute/End Call): Press to
end a call, reject a call, or cancel an
operation.
Infotainment System Controls
If equipped, the infotainment
system allows certain controls to be
selected on the infotainment display.
For information about how to
navigate the menu system using the
infotainment controls, see Operation
on page 7‑5.

5 / > (Phone): Press to enter the
Phone main menu.
Voice Recognition
The voice recognition system uses
commands to control the system
and dial phone numbers.
Noise: The system may not
recognize voice commands if there
is too much background noise. Do
not point the center air vents directly
upward.

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Infotainment System
When to Speak: A tone sounds to
indicate that the system is ready for
a voice command. Wait for the tone
and then speak.
How to Speak: Speak clearly in a
calm and natural voice.

Audio System
When using the Bluetooth system,
sound comes through the vehicle's
front audio system speakers and
overrides the audio system. Use
the O /VOL knob during a call to
change the volume level. The
adjusted volume level remains in
memory for later calls. The system
maintains a minimum volume level.

Other Information
The Bluetooth® word mark and
logos are owned by the Bluetooth®
SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks
by General Motors is under license.
Other trademarks and trade names
are those of their respective owners.

See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑16 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.

7-21

Pairing Information
.

A Bluetooth phone with MP3
capability can be paired
separately to the vehicle as a
phone and an MP3 player at the
same time. This requires the
device to be paired two times;
once as a “hands-free” device
and once as an MP3 device.

For information about how to
navigate the menu system using the
infotainment controls, see Operation
on page 7‑5.

Up to five cell phones can be
paired to the Bluetooth system.

The pairing process is disabled
when the vehicle is moving.

Pairing

Pairing only needs to be
completed once, unless the
pairing information on the cell
phone changes or the cell phone
is deleted from the system.

Only one paired cell phone can
be connected to the Bluetooth
system at a time.

Bluetooth (Infotainment
Controls)

A Bluetooth-enabled cell phone
must be paired to the Bluetooth
system and then connected to the
vehicle before it can be used. See
your cell phone manufacturer's user
guide for Bluetooth functions before
pairing the cell phone. If a Bluetooth
phone is not connected, calls will be
made using OnStar Hands-Free
Calling, if available. See OnStar
Overview on page 14‑1.

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7-22
.

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Infotainment System

If multiple paired cell phones are
within range of the system, the
system connects to the first
available paired cell phone in the
order that they were first paired
to the system. To link to a
different paired phone, see
“Linking to a Different Phone”
later in this section.

Pairing a Phone as a Hands-Free
Device
1. Press the CONFIG button.
2. Select Phone Settings or
Bluetooth Settings.
3. Select Bluetooth.
4. Select Pair Device
(Hands-Free). A four-digit
Personal Identification Number
(PIN) appears on the display.
The PIN is used is Step 6.
5. Start the pairing process on the
cell phone to be paired to the
vehicle. See the cell phone
manufacturer's user guide for
information on this process.

6. Locate the device named “Your
Vehicle” in the list on the cell
phone. Follow the instructions
on the cell phone to enter the
PIN provided in Step 4. After the
PIN is successfully entered, the
system prompts you to provide a
name for the paired cell phone.
This name will be used to
indicate which phones are
paired and connected to the
vehicle. The system responds
with “ has been
successfully paired” after the
pairing process is complete.
7. Repeat Steps 1−6 to pair
additional phones.
Listing All Paired and Connected
Phones
1. Press the CONFIG button.
2. Select Phone Settings or
Bluetooth Settings.
3. Select Bluetooth.
4. Select Device List.

Deleting a Paired Phone
1. Press the CONFIG button.
2. Select Phone Settings or
Bluetooth Settings.
3. Select Bluetooth.
4. Select Device List.
5. Select the phone to delete and
follow the on-screen prompts.
Linking to a Different Phone
To link to a different phone, the new
phone must be in the vehicle and
available to be connected to the
Bluetooth system before the
process is started.
1. Press the CONFIG button.
2. Select Phone Settings or
Bluetooth Settings.
3. Select Bluetooth.
4. Select Device List.

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Infotainment System
5. Select the new phone to link
to and follow the on-screen
prompts.
If delete is selected, the
highlighted phone will be
deleted.

Making a Call Using
Phone Book
For cell phones that support the
phone book feature, the Bluetooth
system can use the contacts stored
on your cell phone to make calls.
See your cell phone's owner's guide
or contact your wireless provider to
find out if this feature is supported
by your phone.
When a cell phone supports the
phone book feature, the Phone
Book and Call Lists menus are
automatically available.
The Phone Book menu allows you
to access the phone book stored in
the cell phone to make a call.

The Call Lists menu allows you to
access the phone numbers from the
Incoming Calls, Outgoing Calls, and
Missed Calls menus on your cell
phone to make a call.
To make a call using the Phone
Book menu:
1. Press 5 / > once or twice
(depending on the radio).
2. Select Phone Book.
3. Search through the list by
selecting the letter group the
phone book entry begins with,
or press the MENU/TUNE button
to scroll through the entire
list of names/numbers in the
phone book.
4. Select the name or number you
want to call.
To make a call using the Call
Lists menu:
1. Press 5 / > once or twice
(depending on the radio).
2. Select Call Lists.

7-23

3. Select the Incoming Calls,
Outgoing Calls, or Missed
Calls list.
4. Select the name or number you
want to call.

Making a Call
To make a call:
1. Press 5 / > once or twice
(depending on the radio).
2. Enter the character sequence.
See “Entering a Character
Sequence” in Operation on
page 7‑5.
3. Select Call to start dialing the
number.

Accepting or Declining a Call
When an incoming call is received,
the infotainment system mutes and
a ring tone is heard in the vehicle.
Accepting a Call
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
“Answer” and press the MENU/
TUNE knob to accept the call.

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Infotainment System

Declining a Call

Conference Calling

Ending a Call

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
“Decline” and press the MENU/
TUNE knob to decline the call.

Conference calling and three-way
calling must be supported on the
Bluetooth phone and enabled by the
wireless service carrier to work.

Turn or press the MENU/TUNE
knob and select Hang Up.

To start a conference while in a
current call:

To Mute a Call

Call Waiting
Call waiting must be supported on
the Bluetooth phone and enabled by
the wireless service carrier to work.
Accepting a Call
Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
“Answer” and press the MENU/
TUNE knob to accept the call.

1. Turn or press the MENU/
TUNE knob.
2. Select Enter Number.

Declining a Call

3. Enter the character sequence
then select Call. See “Entering
a Character Sequence” in
Operation on page 7‑5.

Turn the MENU/TUNE knob to
“Decline” and press the MENU/
TUNE knob to decline the call.

4. After the call has been placed,
turn or press the MENU/TUNE
knob and choose Merge Calls.

Switching Between Calls (Call
Waiting Calls Only)

5. To add more callers to the
conference call, repeat
Steps 1−4. The number of
callers that can be added is
limited by your wireless service
carrier.

To switch between calls:
1. Turn or press the MENU/
TUNE knob.
2. Select Switch Call from
the menu.

Muting a Call
Turn or press the MENU/TUNE
knob and select Mute Call.
To Cancel Mute
Turn or press the MENU/TUNE
knob and select Mute Call.

Dual Tone Multi-Frequency
(DTMF) Tones
The in-vehicle Bluetooth system can
send numbers during a call. This is
used when calling a menu-driven
phone system.
1. Turn or press the MENU/TUNE
knob and select Enter Number.
2. Enter the character sequence.
See “Entering a Character
Sequence” in Operation on
page 7‑5.

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Infotainment System

Bluetooth (Voice
Recognition)

Pairing Information
.

A Bluetooth phone with MP3
capability can be paired to the
vehicle as a phone and an MP3
player at the same time.

Up to five cell phones can be
paired to the Bluetooth system.

The pairing process is disabled
when the vehicle is moving.

Pairing only needs to be
completed once, unless the
pairing information on the cell
phone changes or the cell phone
is deleted from the system.

Using Voice Recognition
To use voice recognition, press
the b / g button located on the
steering wheel. Use the commands
below for the various voice features.
For additional information, say
"Help" while you are in a voice
recognition menu.

Pairing
A Bluetooth-enabled cell phone
must be paired to the Bluetooth
system and then connected to the
vehicle before it can be used. See
your cell phone manufacturer's user
guide for Bluetooth functions before
pairing the cell phone. If a Bluetooth
phone is not connected, calls will be
made using OnStar Hands-Free
Calling, if available. See OnStar
Overview on page 14‑1.

Only one paired cell phone can
be connected to the Bluetooth
system at a time.
If multiple paired cell phones are
within range of the system, the
system connects to the first
available paired cell phone in the
order that they were first paired
to the system. To link to a
different paired phone, see
“Connecting to a Different
Phone” later in this section.

7-25

Pairing a Phone
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Bluetooth.” This command
can be skipped.
3. Say “Pair.” The system responds
with instructions and a four-digit
Personal Identification Number
(PIN). The PIN is used in Step 5.
4. Start the pairing process on the
cell phone that you want to pair.
For help with this process, see
your cell phone manufacturer's
user guide.
5. Locate the device named “Your
Vehicle” in the list on the cell
phone. Follow the instructions
on the cell phone to enter the
PIN provided in Step 3. After the
PIN is successfully entered, the
system prompts you to provide a
name for the paired cell phone.

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7-26

Black plate (26,1)

Infotainment System

This name will be used to
indicate which phones are
paired and connected to the
vehicle. The system responds
with “ has been
successfully paired” after the
pairing process is complete.
6. Repeat Steps 1−5 to pair
additional phones.

Deleting a Paired Phone

2. Say “Bluetooth.”

If the phone name you want to
delete is unknown, see “Listing All
Paired and Connected Phones.”

3. Say “Change phone.”

1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Bluetooth.”

Listing All Paired and Connected
Phones

3. Say “Delete.” The system asks
for which phone to delete.

The system can list all cell phones
paired to it. If a paired cell phone is
also connected to the vehicle, the
system responds with “is connected”
after that phone name.

4. Say the name of the phone you
want to delete.

1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Bluetooth.”
3. Say “List.”

Connecting to a Different Phone
To connect to a different cell phone,
the Bluetooth system looks for the
next available cell phone in the
order in which all available cell
phones were paired. Depending
on which cell phone you want to
connect to, you may have to use
this command several times.
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.

If another cell phone is
found, the response will be
“ is now
connected.”

If another cell phone is not
found, the original phone
remains connected.

Storing and Deleting Phone
Numbers
The system can store up to
30 phone numbers as name tags
in the Hands-Free Directory that is
shared between the Bluetooth and
OnStar systems.
The following commands are used
to delete and store phone numbers.
Store: This command will store a
phone number, or a group of
numbers as a name tag.
Digit Store: This command allows
a phone number to be stored as a
name tag by entering the digits one
at a time.

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Infotainment System
Delete: This command is used to
delete individual name tags.
Delete All Name Tags: This
command deletes all stored name
tags in the Hands-Free Calling
Directory and the Destinations
Directory.
Using the “Store” Command
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Store.”
3. Say the phone number or group
of numbers you want to store all
at once with no pauses, then
follow the directions given by the
system to save a name tag for
this number.
Using the “Digit Store” Command
If an unwanted number is
recognized by the system, say
“Clear” at any time to clear the last
number.

To hear all of the numbers
recognized by the system, say
“Verify” at any time.

7-27

Using the “Delete All Name Tags”
Command

1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.

This command deletes all stored
name tags in the Hands-Free
Calling Directory and the
Destinations Directory.

2. Say “Digit Store.”

To delete all name tags:

3. Say each digit, one at a time,
that you want to store. After
each digit is entered, the system
repeats back the digit it heard
followed by a tone. After the
last digit has been entered, say
“Store,” and then follow the
directions given by the system to
save a name tag for this number.

1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.

Using the “Delete” Command
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Delete.”
3. Say the name tag you want to
delete.

2. Say “Delete all name tags.”

Listing Stored Numbers
The list command will list all stored
numbers and name tags.
Using the “List” Command
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Directory.”
3. Say “Hands-Free Calling.”
4. Say “List.”

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7-28

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Infotainment System

Making a Call

Using the “Digit Dial” Command

Calls can be made using the
following commands.

The digit dial command allows a
phone number to be dialed by
entering the digits one at a time.
After each digit is entered, the
system repeats back the digit it
heard followed by a tone.

Dial or Call: The dial or
call command can be used
interchangeably to dial a phone
number or a stored name tag.
Digit Dial: This command allows
a phone number to be dialed by
entering the digits one at a time.
Re-dial: This command is used to
dial the last number used on the cell
phone.
Using the “Dial” or “Call”
Command
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Dial” or “Call.”
3. Say the entire number without
pausing or say the name tag.
Once connected, the person called
will be heard through the audio
speakers.

If an unwanted number is
recognized by the system, say
“Clear” at any time to clear the last
number.
To hear all of the numbers
recognized by the system, say
“Verify” at any time.
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Digit Dial.”
3. Say each digit, one at a time,
that you want to dial. After each
digit is entered, the system
repeats back the digit it heard
followed by a tone. After the
last digit has been entered,
say “Dial.”

Once connected, the person called
will be heard through the audio
speakers.
Using the “Re-dial” Command
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. After the tone, say “Re-dial.” The
system dials the last number
called from the connected cell
phone.
Once connected, the person called
will be heard through the audio
speakers.

Receiving a Call
When an incoming call is received,
the audio system mutes and a ring
tone is heard in the vehicle.
.
.

b / g to answer the call.
Press $ / i to ignore a call.
Press

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Infotainment System
Call Waiting
Call waiting must be supported on
the cell phone and enabled by the
wireless service carrier.
.

Press b / g to answer an
incoming call when another call
is active. The original call is
placed on hold.
Press b / g again to return to
the original call.
To ignore the incoming call, no
action is required.
Press $ / i to disconnect the
current call and switch to the call
on hold.

Three-Way Calling
Three-way calling must be
supported on the cell phone and
enabled by the wireless service
carrier.
1. While on a call, press
2. Say “Three-way call.”

b / g.

3. Use the dial or call command to
dial the number of the third party
to be called.
4. Once the call is connected,
press b / g to link all callers
together.

Ending a Call
Press

$ / i to end a call.

Muting a Call
During a call, all sounds from inside
the vehicle can be muted so that the
person on the other end of the call
cannot hear them.
To mute a call, press b /
then say “Mute Call.”

g , and

To cancel mute, press b /
then say “Un-mute Call.”

g , and

Transferring a Call
Audio can be transferred between
the Bluetooth system and the cell
phone.

7-29

The cell phone must be paired
and connected with the Bluetooth
system before a call can be
transferred. The connection process
can take up to two minutes after the
ignition is turned to ON/RUN.
To Transfer Audio from the
Bluetooth System to a Cell Phone
During a call with the audio in the
vehicle:
1. Press

b / g.

2. Say “Transfer Call.”
To Transfer Audio to the Bluetooth
System from a Cell Phone
During a call with the audio on the
cell phone, press b / g. The audio
transfers to the vehicle. If the audio
does not transfer to the vehicle,
use the audio transfer feature on the
cell phone. See the cell phone
manufacturer's user guide.

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7-30

Black plate (30,1)

Infotainment System

Voice Pass-Thru
Voice pass-thru allows access to
the voice recognition commands on
the cell phone. See the cell phone
manufacturer's user guide to see if
the cell phone supports this feature.
To access contacts stored in the cell
phone:
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Bluetooth.” This command
can be skipped.
3. Say “Voice.” The system
responds “OK, accessing
.”
The cell phone's normal prompt
messages will go through their cycle
according to the phone's operating
instructions.

Dual Tone Multi-Frequency
(DTMF) Tones
The Bluetooth system can send
numbers and the numbers stored as
name tags during a call. You can
use this feature when calling a
menu-driven phone system.
Account numbers can also be
stored for use.
Sending a Number or Name Tag
During a Call
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Dial.”
3. Say the number or name tag
to send.

Clearing the System
Unless information is deleted out of
the in-vehicle Bluetooth system, it
will be retained indefinitely. This
includes all saved name tags in
the phone book and phone pairing
information. For information on
how to delete this information, see
the previous sections on deleting
a paired phone and deleting
name tags.

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Climate Controls

Climate Control
Systems

Climate Control Systems

For vehicles with these climate
control systems, the heating,
cooling, and ventilation can be
controlled for the vehicle.

Climate Control Systems . . . . . . 8-1

Air Vents
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

8-1

E. Air Conditioning
F.

Rear Window Defogger

G. Recirculation

Maintenance
Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Passenger Compartment Air
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4

Climate Control System with
Heater Only
A. Temperature Control
Climate Control System with
Heater and Air Conditioning
A. Temperature Control
B. Fan Control
C. Air Delivery Mode Control
D. Driver and Passenger Heated
Seats

B. Fan Control
C. Air Delivery Mode Control
D. Rear Window Defogger
E. Recirculation

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8-2

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Climate Controls

Temperature Control: Turn
clockwise or counterclockwise to
increase or decrease the
temperature.

W (Defog): This mode clears the
windows of fog or moisture. Air is
directed to the floor, windshield, and
side window outlets.

A (Fan Control):

Turn clockwise
or counterclockwise to increase or
decrease the fan speed. Turning the
fan control to 0 turns the fan off. The
fan must be turned on to run the air
conditioning compressor.

1 (Defrost): This mode clears
the windshield of fog or frost more
quickly. Air is directed to the
windshield and side window outlets.

Air Delivery Mode Control: Turn
clockwise or counterclockwise to
change the current airflow mode.

# (Air Conditioning):

Select from the following air delivery
modes:

Y (Vent): Air is directed to the
instrument panel outlets.
\ (Bi-Level):

Air is divided
between the instrument panel and
floor outlets.

[ (Floor):

Air is directed to the
floor outlets, with some air directed
to the rear outlets.

Do not drive the vehicle until all
windows are clear.
For
vehicles with air conditioning,
follow these steps to use the
system. Turn A to the desired
speed. The air conditioning does not
operate when the fan control knob is
in the off position. Press # to turn
the air conditioning on and off.
When # is pressed, an indicator
light comes on to show that the air
conditioning is on.

For quick cool down on hot days, do
the following:
1. Open the windows to let hot air
escape.

M.
Press #.

2. Press
3.

4. Select the coolest temperature.
5. Select the highest

A speed.

Using these settings together for
long periods of time may cause the
air inside the vehicle to become too
dry. To prevent this from happening,
after the air in the vehicle has
cooled, turn the recirculation
mode off.

M (Recirculation): This mode
recirculates and helps to quickly
cool the air inside the vehicle. It can
be used to prevent outside air and
odors from entering the vehicle.

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Climate Controls
Press the button to turn the
recirculation mode on. An indicator
light comes on to show that the
recirculation is on. Press the button
again to return to outside air mode.
Using the recirculation mode for
extended periods may cause the
windows to fog. If this happens,
select the defrost mode.

M / L Heated Seats
(If Equipped): Press to heat the
driver or passenger seat. See
Heated Front Seats on page 3‑7.
Rear Window and Outside
Mirror Defogger

1 (Rear Window Defogger):
Press to turn the rear window and
outside mirror defogger on or off. An
indicator light comes on to show
that the feature is on.

8-3

The rear window defogger turns off
after about 10 minutes. It can also
be turned off by pressing 1 again
or by turning the ignition to ACC/
ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF.
If turned on again it runs for about
five minutes before turning off.

Air Vents

For vehicles with heated outside
rearview mirrors, they turn on with
the rear window defogger and help
to clear fog or frost from the surface
of the mirror. See Heated Mirrors on
page 2‑13.

Turn the knobs on the side air vents
counterclockwise or clockwise to
open or close off the airflow.

Notice: Do not use anything
sharp on the inside of the rear
window. If you do, you could
cut or damage the warming grid,
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Do not attach a temporary vehicle
license, tape, a decal, or anything
similar to the defogger grid.

Use the air vents located in the
center and on the side of the
instrument panel to direct the
airflow. Move the slats on the center
air vents to direct airflow.

Operation Tips
.

Clear away any ice, snow,
or leaves from the air inlets at
the base of the windshield that
may block the flow of air into the
vehicle.

Use of non-GM approved hood
deflectors may adversely affect
the performance of the system.

Keep the path under the front
seats clear of objects to help
circulate the air inside the
vehicle more effectively.

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8-4

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Climate Controls

Maintenance
Air Intake
Clear away any ice, snow, or leaves
from the air intake at the base of the
windshield that can block the flow of
air into the vehicle.

Passenger Compartment
Air Filter
The filter removes dust, pollen, and
other airborne irritants from outside
air that is pulled into the vehicle.
The filter should be replaced as part
of routine scheduled maintenance.
See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3. To find out what type of
filter to use, see Maintenance
Replacement Parts on page 11‑14.

1. Open the glove box completely
and pull it to remove.
2. Remove the filter cover by
unscrewing both sides of the
cover.

3. Install the new air filter.
4. Reinstall the air filter cover and
glove box in reverse order.
See your dealer if additional
assistance is needed.

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Driving and Operating

Driving and
Operating
Driving Information
Driving for Better Fuel
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Drunk Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Driving on Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . 9-7
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
If the Vehicle Is Stuck . . . . . . . . . 9-9
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . 9-10

Starting and Operating
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . .
Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . .
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

9-15
9-15
9-17
9-18

Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Shifting Into Park (Automatic
Transmission) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-20
Shifting out of Park (Automatic
Transmission) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-21
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Parking over Things
That Burn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22

Engine Exhaust
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Running the Vehicle While
Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23

Automatic Transmission
Automatic Transmission . . . . . 9-24
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25

Manual Transmission
Manual Transmission . . . . . . . . 9-26

Brakes
Antilock Brake
System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Parking Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-29

9-1

Ride Control Systems
Traction Control
System (TCS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-29
StabiliTrak® System . . . . . . . . . 9-31

Cruise Control
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33

Fuel
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Recommended Fuel . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Gasoline Specifications . . . . . . 9-36
California Fuel
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36
Fuels in Foreign Countries . . . 9-36
Fuel Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-37
Filling a Portable Fuel
Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39

Towing
General Towing
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-39

Conversions and Add-Ons
Add-On Electrical
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40

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9-2

Driving and Operating

Driving Information
Driving for Better Fuel
Economy
Driving habits can affect fuel
mileage. Here are some driving
tips to get the best fuel economy
possible.
.

Avoid fast starts and accelerate
smoothly.

Brake gradually and avoid
abrupt stops.

Avoid idling the engine for long
periods of time.

When road and weather
conditions are appropriate, use
cruise control.

Black plate (2,1)

Always follow posted speed
limits or drive more slowly when
conditions require.

Keep vehicle tires properly
inflated.

Combine several trips into a
single trip.

Replace the vehicle's tires with
the same TPC Spec number
molded into the tire's sidewall
near the size.

Watch the road. Do not
read, take notes, or look up
information on phones or other
electronic devices.

Follow recommended scheduled
maintenance.

Designate a front seat
passenger to handle potential
distractions.

Become familiar with vehicle
features before driving, such
as programming favorite radio
stations and adjusting climate
control and seat settings.
Program all trip information into
any navigation device prior to
driving.

Wait until the vehicle is parked
to retrieve items that have fallen
to the floor.

Stop or park the vehicle to tend
to children.

Keep pets in an appropriate
carrier or restraint.

Avoid stressful conversations
while driving, whether with a
passenger or on a cell phone.

Distracted Driving
Distraction comes in many forms
and can take your focus from the
task of driving. Exercise good
judgment and do not let other
activities divert your attention
away from the road. Many local
governments have enacted laws
regarding driver distraction. Become
familiar with the local laws in
your area.
To avoid distracted driving, always
keep your eyes on the road, hands
on the wheel, and mind on the drive.
.

Do not use a phone in
demanding driving situations.
Use a hands-free method to
place or receive necessary
phone calls.

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Driving and Operating
careless and make mistakes.
Anticipate what they might do
and be ready.

{ WARNING
Taking your eyes off the road too
long or too often could cause a
crash resulting in injury or death.
Focus your attention on driving.
Refer to the infotainment section
for more information on using that
system, including pairing and using
a cell phone.
If equipped, refer to the navigation
manual for information on that
system, including pairing and using
a cell phone.

Defensive Driving
Defensive driving means “always
expect the unexpected.” The first
step in driving defensively is to wear
the safety belt. See Safety Belts on
page 3‑10.
.

Assume that other road users
(pedestrians, bicyclists, and
other drivers) are going to be

Allow enough following distance
between you and the driver in
front of you.

Focus on the task of driving.

Drunk Driving
Death and injury associated with
drinking and driving is a global
tragedy.

{ WARNING
Drinking and then driving is
very dangerous. Your reflexes,
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.
(Continued)

9-3

WARNING (Continued)
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
Braking, steering, and accelerating
are important factors in helping to
control a vehicle while driving.

Braking
Braking action involves perception
time and reaction time. Deciding
to push the brake pedal is
perception time. Actually doing
it is reaction time.
Average driver reaction time is
about three-quarters of a second.
In that time, a vehicle moving at
100 km/h (60 mph) travels 20 m
(66 ft), which could be a lot of
distance in an emergency.

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9-4

Driving and Operating

Helpful braking tips to keep in mind
include:
.

Black plate (4,1)

Keep enough distance between
you and the vehicle in front
of you.

Avoid needless heavy braking.

Keep pace with traffic.

If the engine ever stops while the
vehicle is being driven, brake
normally but do not pump the
brakes. Doing so could make the
pedal harder to push down. If the
engine stops, there will be some
power brake assist but it will be
used when the brake is applied.
Once the power assist is used up, it
can take longer to stop and the
brake pedal will be harder to push.

Steering

If power steering assist is lost due
to a system malfunction, the vehicle
can be steered, but may require
increased effort.
If the steering wheel is turned in
either direction several times until it
stops, or it is held until it is stopped
for an extended time, power
steering assist should return shortly
after a few normal steering
movements.
See specific vehicle steering
messages under Vehicle Messages
on page 5‑27.
See your dealer if there is a
problem.
.

Take curves at a reasonable
speed.

Reduce speed before entering a
curve, while the front wheels are
straight.

Adjust speed so you can drive
through the curve. Maintain a
reasonable, steady speed.

Wait until out of the curve before
accelerating gently into the
straightaway.

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 stopped in the lane, or a
child darts out from between parked
cars and stops right in front of you.
These problems can be avoided by
braking — if you can stop in time.
If you cannot fully stop, follow these
suggestions:
.

Quickly apply the brakes to
remove as much speed as
possible from a collision.

Steer around the problem, to
the left or right depending on
available space.

Straighten the wheel once you
have avoided the object.

Curve Tips

Electric Power Steering
Your vehicle has electric power
steering. It does not have power
steering fluid. Regular maintenance
is not required.

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Driving and Operating

Off-Road Recovery

2. Turn the steering wheel about
one-eighth of a turn, until the
right front tire contacts the
pavement edge.
3. Then turn the steering wheel to
go straight down the roadway.

Loss of Control

Defensive drivers avoid most skids
by taking reasonable care suited to
existing conditions, and by not
overdriving those conditions. But
skids are always possible.
If the vehicle starts to slide, follow
these suggestions:
.

Ease your foot off the
accelerator pedal and quickly
steer the way you want the
vehicle to go. The vehicle may
straighten out. Be ready for a
second skid if it occurs.

Slow down and adjust your
driving according to weather
conditions. Stopping distance
can be longer and vehicle
control can be affected when
traction is reduced by water,
snow, ice, gravel, or other
material on the road. Learn to
recognize warning clues — such
as enough water, ice, or packed
snow on the road to make a
mirrored surface — and slow
down when you have any doubt.

Skidding
There are three types of skids that
correspond to the vehicle's three
control systems:
The vehicle's right wheels can drop
off the edge of a road onto the
shoulder while driving. Follow
these tips:
1. Ease off the accelerator and
then, if there is nothing in the
way, steer the vehicle so that it
straddles the edge of the
pavement.

Braking Skid — wheels are not
rolling.

Steering or Cornering
Skid — too much speed or
steering in a curve causes tires
to slip and lose cornering force.

Acceleration Skid — too much
throttle causes the driving
wheels to spin.

9-5

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9-6
.

Black plate (6,1)

Driving and Operating

Try to avoid sudden steering,
acceleration, or braking,
including reducing vehicle speed
by shifting to a lower gear. Any
sudden changes could cause
the tires to slide.

Remember: Antilock brakes help
avoid only the braking skid.

Driving on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can reduce
vehicle traction and affect your
ability to stop and accelerate.
Always drive slower in these types
of driving conditions and avoid
driving through large puddles and
deep‐standing or flowing water.

{ WARNING
Wet brakes can cause crashes.
They might not work as well in a
quick stop and could cause
pulling to one side. You could
lose control of the vehicle.
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
After driving through a large
puddle of water or a car/vehicle
wash, lightly apply the brake
pedal until the brakes work
normally.
Flowing or rushing water creates
strong forces. Driving through
flowing water could cause the
vehicle to be carried away. If this
happens, you and other vehicle
occupants could drown. Do not
ignore police warnings and be
very cautious about trying to drive
through flowing water.

Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is dangerous. Water
can build up under the vehicle's
tires so they actually ride on the
water. This can happen if the road
is wet enough and you are going
fast enough. When the vehicle is
hydroplaning, it has little or no
contact with the road.

There is no hard and fast rule about
hydroplaning. The best advice is to
slow down when the road is wet.

Other Rainy Weather Tips
Besides slowing down, other wet
weather driving tips include:
.

Allow extra following distance.

Pass with caution.

Keep windshield wiping
equipment in good shape.

Keep the windshield washer fluid
reservoir filled.

Have good tires with proper
tread depth. See Tires on
page 10‑38.

Turn off cruise control.

Highway Hypnosis
Always be alert and pay attention
to your surroundings while driving.
If you become tired or sleepy, find
a safe place to park the vehicle
and rest.

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Black plate (7,1)

Driving and Operating
Other driving tips include:
.

Keep the vehicle well ventilated.

Keep the interior
temperature cool.

Keep your eyes moving — scan
the road ahead and to the sides.

Check the rearview mirror and
vehicle instruments often.

Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or through
mountains is different than driving
on flat or rolling terrain. Tips for
driving in these conditions include:
.

Keep the vehicle serviced and in
good shape.

Check all fluid levels and brakes,
tires, cooling system, and
transmission.

Shift to a lower gear when going
down steep or long hills.

{ WARNING
If you do not shift down, the
brakes could get so hot that they
would not work well. You would
then have poor braking or even
none going down a hill. You could
crash. Shift down to let the engine
assist the brakes on a steep
downhill slope.

{ WARNING
Coasting downhill in N (Neutral)
or with the ignition off is
dangerous. The brakes will have
to do all the work of slowing down
and they could get so hot that
they would not work well. You
would then have poor braking or
even none going down a hill. You
could crash. Always have the
engine running and the vehicle in
gear when going downhill.

9-7

Stay in your own lane. Do not
swing wide or cut across the
center of the road. Drive at
speeds that let you stay in your
own lane.

Be alert on top of hills.
Something could be in your lane
(stalled car, accident).

Pay attention to special road
signs (falling rocks area, winding
roads, long grades, passing or
no-passing zones) and take
appropriate action.

Winter Driving
Driving on Snow or Ice
Drive carefully when there is snow
or ice between the tires and the
road, creating less traction or grip.
Wet ice can occur at about 0°C
(32°F) when freezing rain begins to
fall, resulting in even less traction.
Avoid driving on wet ice or in
freezing rain until roads can be
treated with salt or sand.

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9-8

Black plate (8,1)

Driving and Operating

Drive with caution, whatever the
condition. Accelerate gently so
traction is not lost. Accelerating too
quickly causes the wheels to spin
and makes the surface under the
tires slick, so there is even less
traction.

when the surrounding roads are
clear. Avoid sudden steering
maneuvers and braking while
on ice.

Try not to break the fragile traction.
If you accelerate too fast, the drive
wheels will spin and polish the
surface under the tires even more.

Blizzard Conditions

The Antilock Brake System (ABS)
on page 9‑28 improves vehicle
stability during hard stops on
slippery roads, but apply the brakes
sooner than when on dry pavement.
Allow greater following distance on
any slippery road and watch for
slippery spots. Icy patches can
occur on otherwise clear roads in
shaded areas. The surface of a
curve or an overpass can remain icy

Turn off cruise control on slippery
surfaces.
Being stuck in snow can be a
serious situation. Stay with the
vehicle unless there is help nearby.
If possible, use the Roadside
Assistance Program on page 13‑5.
To get help and keep everyone in
the vehicle safe:
.

Turn on the hazard warning
flashers.

Tie a red cloth to an outside
mirror.

{ WARNING
Snow can trap engine exhaust
under the vehicle. This may
cause exhaust gases to get
inside. Engine exhaust contains
carbon monoxide (CO) which
cannot be seen or smelled. It can
cause unconsciousness and even
death.
If the vehicle is stuck in the snow:
.

Clear away snow from around
the base of your vehicle,
especially any that is blocking
the exhaust pipe.

Check again from time to
time to be sure snow does
not collect there.

Open a window about 5 cm
(2 in) on the side of the
vehicle that is away from the
wind to bring in fresh air.
(Continued)

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Black plate (9,1)

Driving and Operating
WARNING (Continued)
.

Fully open the air outlets on
or under the instrument
panel.

Adjust the climate control
system to a setting that
circulates the air inside the
vehicle and set the fan speed
to the highest setting. See
“Climate Control Systems” in
the Index.

For more information about
carbon monoxide, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑22.
Run the engine for short periods
only as needed to keep warm, but
be careful.

To save fuel, run the engine for only
short periods as needed to warm
the vehicle and then shut the engine
off and close the window most of
the way to save heat. Repeat this
until help arrives but only when you
feel really uncomfortable from the
cold. Moving about to keep warm
also helps.
If it takes some time for help to
arrive, now and then when you run
the engine, push the accelerator
pedal slightly so the engine runs
faster than the idle speed. This
keeps the battery charged to restart
the vehicle and to signal for help
with the headlamps. Do this as little
as possible to save fuel.

If the Vehicle Is Stuck
Slowly and cautiously spin the
wheels to free the vehicle when
stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow.

9-9

If stuck too severely for the traction
system to free the vehicle, turn the
traction system off and use the
rocking method.

{ WARNING
If the vehicle's tires spin at high
speed, they can explode, and you
or others could be injured. The
vehicle can overheat, causing an
engine compartment fire or other
damage. Spin the wheels as little
as possible and avoid going
above 56 km/h (35 mph).
For information about using tire
chains on the vehicle, see Tire
Chains on page 10‑57.

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9-10

Black plate (10,1)

Driving and Operating

Rocking the Vehicle to Get
it Out
Turn the steering wheel left and
right to clear the area around the
front wheels. Turn off any traction
system. Shift back and forth
between R (Reverse) and a forward
gear, or with a manual transmission,
between 1 (First) or 2 (Second) and
R (Reverse), spinning the wheels
as little as possible. To prevent
transmission wear, wait until the
wheels stop spinning before shifting
gears. Release the accelerator
pedal while shifting, and press
lightly on the accelerator pedal
when the transmission is in gear.
Slowly spinning the wheels in the
forward and reverse directions
causes a rocking motion that could
free the vehicle. If that does not get
the vehicle out after a few tries, it
might need to be towed out. If the
vehicle does need to be towed out,
see Towing the Vehicle on
page 10‑77.

Vehicle Load Limits
It is very important to know how
much weight the vehicle can
carry. This weight is called the
vehicle capacity weight and
includes the weight of all
occupants, cargo and all
nonfactory‐installed options.
Two labels on the vehicle
show how much weight it may
properly carry, the Tire and
Loading Information label and
the Certification label.

WARNING (Continued)
vehicle handles. This could
cause loss of control and a
crash. Overloading can also
shorten the life of the vehicle.
Tire and Loading Information
Label

Label Example

A vehicle-specific Tire and
Loading Information label is
attached to the vehicle's center

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Black plate (11,1)

Driving and Operating
pillar (B-pillar). The Tire and
Loading Information label shows
the number of occupant seating
positions (A), and the maximum
vehicle capacity weight (B) in
kilograms and pounds.
The Tire and Loading
Information label also shows
the tire size of the original
equipment tires (C) and the
recommended cold tire inflation
pressures (D). For more
information on tires and inflation
see Tires on page 10‑38 and
Tire Pressure on page 10‑44.
There is also important loading
information on the Certification
label. It tells you the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
and the Gross Axle Weight
Rating (GAWR) for the front and
rear axle. See “Certification
Label” later in this section.

Steps for Determining Correct
Load Limit
1. Locate the statement

“The combined weight of
occupants and cargo should
never exceed XXX kg or
XXX lbs” on your vehicle's
placard.
2. Determine the combined

weight of the driver and
passengers that will be riding
in your vehicle.
3. Subtract the combined

weight of the driver and
passengers from XXX kg
or XXX lbs.
4. The resulting figure equals

the available amount of cargo
and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX”
amount equals 1400 lbs
and there will be five 150 lb
passengers in your vehicle,
the amount of available cargo

9-11

and luggage load capacity
is 650 lbs (1400 − 750
(5 x 150) = 650 lbs).
5. Determine the combined

weight of luggage and cargo
being loaded on the vehicle.
That weight may not safely
exceed the available cargo
and luggage load capacity
calculated in Step 4.
6. If your vehicle will be towing

a trailer, the load from your
trailer will be transferred to
your vehicle. Consult this
manual to determine how this
reduces the available cargo
and luggage load capacity of
your vehicle.
This vehicle is neither designed
nor intended to tow a trailer.

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9-12

Black plate (12,1)

Driving and Operating

Example 1
A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for

Example 1 = 453 kg
(1,000 lbs).

Example 2
A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for

Example 2 = 453 kg
(1,000 lbs).

Example 3
A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for

Example 3 = 453 kg
(1,000 lbs).

B. Subtract Occupant Weight

@ 68 kg (150 lbs) × 2 =
136 kg (300 lbs).

@ 68 kg (150 lbs) × 5 =
340 kg (750 lbs).

@ 91 kg (200 lbs) × 5 =
453 kg (1,000 lbs).

C. Available Occupant and

Cargo Weight = 317 kg
(700 lbs).

C. Available Cargo Weight =

113 kg (250 lbs).

C. Available Cargo Weight =

0 kg (0 lbs).

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Black plate (13,1)

Driving and Operating
Refer to the vehicle's Tire and
Loading Information label for
specific information about the
vehicle's capacity weight and
seating positions. The combined
weight of the driver, passengers,
and cargo should never exceed
the vehicle's capacity weight.

Certification Label

Label Example

A vehicle-specific Certification
label is attached to the
vehicle's center pillar (B-pillar).

9-13

The label tells the gross weight
capacity of the vehicle, called
the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR). The GVWR includes
the weight of the vehicle, all
occupants, fuel, and cargo.
Never exceed the GVWR for
the vehicle, or the Gross Axle
Weight Rating (GAWR) for either
the front or rear axle.

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9-14

Black plate (14,1)

Driving and Operating

And, if there is a heavy load, it
should be spread out. See
“Steps for Determining Correct
Load Limit” earlier in this
section.

{ WARNING
Do not load the vehicle any
heavier than the Gross
Vehicle Weight Rating
(GVWR), or either the
maximum front or rear Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR).
This can cause systems to
break and change the way the
vehicle handles. This could
cause loss of control and a
crash. Overloading can also
shorten the life of the vehicle.

If you put things inside the
vehicle — like suitcases,
tools, packages, or anything
else — they will go as fast as the
vehicle goes. If you have to stop
or turn quickly, or if there is a
crash, they will keep going.

{ WARNING
Things inside the vehicle can
strike and injure people in a
sudden stop or turn, or in a
crash.
.

Put things in the cargo
area of the vehicle. In the
cargo area, put them as
far forward as possible.
Try to spread the weight
evenly.
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
.

Never stack heavier
things, like suitcases,
inside the vehicle so that
some of them are above
the tops of the seats.

Do not leave an
unsecured child restraint
in the vehicle.

Secure loose items in the
vehicle.

Do not leave a seat folded
down unless needed.

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Black plate (15,1)

Driving and Operating

Starting and
Operating

Following break‐in, engine speed
and load can be gradually
increased.

New Vehicle Break-In

Ignition Positions

Notice: The vehicle does not
need an elaborate break-in. But it
will perform better in the long run
if you follow these guidelines:
.

A (STOPPING THE ENGINE/
LOCK/OFF): When the vehicle is
stopped, turn the ignition switch to
LOCK/OFF to turn the engine off.
This position locks the steering
wheel, ignition, and transmission.
Do not turn the engine off when the
vehicle is moving. This will cause a
loss of power assist in the brake
and steering systems and disable
the airbags.

Do not drive at any one
constant speed, fast or slow,
for the first 805 km (500 mi).
Do not make full-throttle
starts. Avoid downshifting to
brake or slow the vehicle.
Avoid making hard stops for
the first 322 km (200 mi) or
so. During this time the new
brake linings are not yet
broken in. Hard stops with
new linings can mean
premature wear and earlier
replacement. Follow this
breaking-in guideline every
time you get new brake
linings.

9-15

If the vehicle must be shut off in an
emergency:

The ignition switch has four different
positions.
To shift out of P (Park), the ignition
must be in ON/RUN and the regular
brake pedal applied.

1. Brake using a firm and steady
pressure. Do not pump the
brakes repeatedly. This may
deplete power assist, requiring
increased brake pedal force.
2. Shift the vehicle to N (Neutral).
This can be done while the
vehicle is moving. After shifting
to N (Neutral), firmly apply the
brakes and steer the vehicle to a
safe location.

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9-16

Black plate (16,1)

Driving and Operating

3. Come to a complete stop. Shift
to P (Park) with an automatic
transmission, or Neutral with a
manual transmission. Turn the
ignition to LOCK/OFF.
4. Set the parking brake. See
Parking Brake on page 9‑29.

{ WARNING
Turning off the vehicle while
moving may cause loss of power
assist in the brake and steering
systems and disable the airbags.
While driving, only shut the
vehicle off in an emergency.
If the vehicle cannot be pulled
over, and must be shut off while
driving, turn the ignition to ACC/
ACCESSORY.
Notice: Using a tool to force the
key to turn in the ignition could
cause damage to the switch or
break the key. Use the correct
key, make sure it is all the way in,

and turn it only with your hand.
If the key cannot be turned by
hand, see your dealer.
B (ACC/ACCESSORY): This is
the position in which you can
operate things like the radio and
the windshield wipers when the
engine is off.
C (ON/RUN): This position can
be used to operate the electrical
accessories and to display some
instrument panel cluster warning
and indicator lights. This position
can also be used for service and
diagnostics, and to verify the proper
operation of the malfunction
indicator lamp as may be required
for emission inspection purposes.
The switch stays in this position
when the engine is running.
If you leave the key in the ACC/
ACCESSORY or ON/RUN position
with the engine off, the battery could
be drained. You may not be able to
start the vehicle if the battery is
allowed to drain for an extended
period of time.

D (START): This is the position that
starts the engine. When the engine
starts, release the key. The ignition
switch returns to ON/RUN for
driving.
A warning tone will sound when the
driver door is opened, the ignition is
in ACC/ACCESSORY or LOCK/
OFF, and the key is in the ignition.

Key Lock Release

Vehicles with an automatic
transmission are equipped with an
electronic key lock release system.

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Black plate (17,1)

Driving and Operating
This system is to prevent ignition
key removal unless the shift lever is
in P (Park).
The key lock release will not work if
the battery is charged less than
9-volts, or uncharged. Try charging
or jump starting the battery. See
Jump Starting on page 10‑74.
If charging or jump starting the
battery does not work, there is a
manual key lock release. Locate the
hole below the ignition lock. Insert a
tool or key into the opening. Locate
the lever, and press it toward the
driver while removing the key from
the ignition.

Starting the Engine
Automatic Transmission
Move the shift lever to P (Park) or
N (Neutral). The engine will not start
in any other position. To restart the
engine when the vehicle is already
moving, use N (Neutral) only.

Notice: Do not try to shift to
P (Park) if the vehicle is moving.
If you do, you could damage the
transmission. Shift to P (Park)
only when the vehicle is stopped.

Manual Transmission
The shift lever should be in Neutral
and the parking brake engaged.
Hold the clutch pedal to the floor
and start the engine. The vehicle
will not start if the clutch pedal is not
all the way down.

Starting Procedure
1. With your foot off the accelerator
pedal, turn the ignition to START.
When the engine cranks, let go
of the key. The idle speed will go
down as the engine gets warm.
The vehicle has a
Computer‐Controlled
Cranking System. It assists in
starting the engine and protects
components. If the ignition key
is turned to START and then
released when the engine

9-17

begins cranking, the engine
will continue cranking for a
few seconds or until the engine
starts. If the engine does not
start and the key is held in
START, cranking will be stopped
after 15 seconds to prevent
damage. To prevent gear
damage, cranking is not allowed
if the engine is running. Engine
cranking can be stopped by
turning the ignition key to ACC/
ACCESSORY or LOCK/OFF.
Notice: Holding the key in START
for longer than 15 seconds at a
time will cause the battery to be
drained much sooner. And the
excessive heat can damage
the starter motor. Wait about
15 seconds between each try to
help avoid draining the battery or
damaging the starter.
2. If the engine does not start, wait
about 15 seconds and try again.
Wait about 15 seconds between
each try.

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9-18

Black plate (18,1)

Driving and Operating

When the engine has run about
10 seconds to warm up, the
vehicle is ready to be driven. Do
not run the engine at high speed
when it is cold.
If the weather is below freezing
(0°C or 32°F), let the engine run
for a few minutes to warm up.
3. If the engine still will not start,
or starts but then stops, it could
be flooded with too much
gasoline. Try pushing the
accelerator pedal all the way to
the floor and holding it there as
you hold the key in START for
about three seconds. If the
vehicle starts briefly but then

stops again, do the same thing,
but this time keep the pedal
down for five or six seconds.
This clears the extra gasoline
from the engine.
Notice: The engine is designed to
work with the electronics in the
vehicle. If electrical parts or
accessories are added, you
could change the way the engine
operates. Before adding electrical
equipment, check with your
dealer. If you do not, the engine
might not perform properly. Any
resulting damage would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

Engine Heater
The engine heater can provide
easier starting and better fuel
economy during engine warm-up
in cold weather conditions at or
below −18°C (0°F). Vehicles with an
engine heater should be plugged in
at least four hours before starting.
1. Turn off the engine.

2. Open the hood and unwrap the
electrical cord. The cord is
located in the driver side of the
engine compartment, near the
battery. It is shipped from the

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Black plate (19,1)

Driving and Operating
factory with a tie holding it in
place. Use care in removing
the tie so that the cord is not
damaged.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded
110-volt AC outlet.

{ WARNING
Plugging the cord into an
ungrounded outlet could cause an
electrical shock. Also, the wrong
kind of extension cord could
overheat and cause a fire. You
could be seriously injured. Plug
the cord into a properly grounded
three-prong 110-volt AC outlet.
If the cord will not reach, use a
heavy-duty three-prong extension
cord rated for at least 15 amps.

4. Before starting the engine, be
sure to unplug and store the
cord as it was before to keep it
away from moving engine parts.
If you do not it could be
damaged.
The length of time the heater should
remain plugged in depends on
several factors. Ask a dealer in the
area where you will be parking the
vehicle for the best advice on this.

Retained Accessory
Power (RAP)
These vehicle accessories may be
used for up to 10 minutes after the
engine is turned off:
.

Audio System

Power Windows

Sunroof

9-19

The power windows and sunroof
will continue to work for up to
10 minutes or until any door is
opened.
The radio will work when the key is
in ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY.
Once the key is turned from ON/
RUN to LOCK/OFF, the radio will
continue to work for 10 minutes after
the last input (button press, knob
turn) to the radio is detected.
It is possible to turn the radio back
on at any time after it has timed out
using the Power knob. The radio will
be functional for 10 minutes after the
last input (button press, knob turn)
to the radio is detected.

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9-20

Black plate (20,1)

Driving and Operating

Shifting Into Park
(Automatic Transmission)

{ WARNING
It can be dangerous to get out of
the vehicle if the shift lever is not
fully in P (Park) with the parking
brake firmly set. The vehicle can
roll. If you have left the engine
running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be
injured. To be sure the vehicle will
not move, even when you are on
fairly level ground, use the steps
that follow.
1. Hold the brake pedal down and
set the parking brake. See
Parking Brake on page 9‑29 for
more information.
2. Move the shift lever into P (Park)
by pressing the button on the
shift lever and pushing the lever
all the way toward the front of
the vehicle.

3. Turn the ignition key to
LOCK/OFF.
4. Remove the key and take it with
you. If you can leave the vehicle
with the ignition key in your
hand, the vehicle is in P (Park).

Leaving the Vehicle with the
Engine Running (Automatic
Transmission)

{ WARNING
It can be dangerous to leave the
vehicle with the engine running.
The vehicle could move suddenly
if the shift lever is not fully in
P (Park) with the parking brake
firmly set. And, if you leave the
vehicle with the engine running, it
could overheat and even catch
fire. You or others could be
injured. Do not leave the vehicle
with the engine running.

If you have to leave the vehicle with
the engine running, be sure the
vehicle is in P (Park) and the
parking brake is firmly set before
you leave it. After you have moved
the shift lever into P (Park), hold the
brake pedal down. Then see if you
can move the shift lever away from
P (Park) without first pushing the
button on the shift lever. If you can,
it means that the shift lever was not
fully locked into P (Park).

Torque Lock (Automatic
Transmission)
If you are parking on a hill and
you do not shift your transmission
into P (Park) properly, the weight
of the vehicle may put too much
force on the parking pawl in the
transmission. You may find it difficult
to pull the shift lever out of P (Park).

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Black plate (21,1)

Driving and Operating
This is called “torque lock.”
To prevent torque lock, set the
parking brake and then shift into
P (Park) properly before you leave
the driver seat. To find out how,
see “Shifting Into Park (Automatic
Transmission)” in this section.

Shifting out of Park
(Automatic Transmission)

To shift out of P (Park):

This vehicle is equipped with a shift
lock control. The shift lock control is
designed to:

2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN.

When you are ready to drive, move
the shift lever out of P (Park) before
you release the parking brake.
If torque lock does occur, you may
need to have another vehicle push
yours a little uphill to take some of
the pressure from the parking pawl
in the transmission, so you can pull
the shift lever out of P (Park).

9-21

Prevent ignition key removal
unless the shift lever is in
P (Park) with the shift lever
button fully released.
Prevent movement of the shift
lever out of P (Park) unless the
ignition is in ON/RUN and the
brake pedal is applied.

The shift lock control is always
functional except in the case of an
uncharged or low voltage (less than
9‐volt) battery.
If the vehicle has an uncharged
battery or a battery with low voltage,
try charging or jump starting the
battery. See Jump Starting on
page 10‑74.

1. Apply the brake pedal.
3. Press the shift lever button.
4. Move the shift lever to the
desired position.
If still unable to shift out of P (Park):
1. Fully release the shift lever
button.
2. Hold the brake pedal down and
press the shift lever button
again.
3. Move the shift lever to the
desired position.
If you still cannot move the shift
lever from P (Park), consult your
dealer or a professional towing
service.
The doors may lock when shifting
from P (Park). See Automatic Door
Locks on page 2‑7.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-22

Black plate (22,1)

Driving and Operating

Parking
If the vehicle has a manual
transmission, before getting out of
the vehicle, move the shift lever into
R (Reverse) if parking on a downhill
slope. On a level surface or an
uphill slope, use 1 (First) gear.
Firmly apply the parking brake. Turn
the wheels toward the curb for a
downhill slope, or away from the
curb for an uphill slope. Once the
shift lever has been placed into gear
with the clutch pedal pressed in,
turn the ignition key to LOCK/OFF,
remove the key, and release the
clutch.

Parking over Things
That Burn

{ WARNING
Things that can burn could touch
hot exhaust parts under the
vehicle and ignite. Do not park
over papers, leaves, dry grass,
or other things that can burn.

Engine Exhaust

{ WARNING
Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide (CO) which cannot be
seen or smelled. Exposure to CO
can cause unconsciousness and
even death.
Exhaust may enter the vehicle if:
.

The vehicle idles in areas
with poor ventilation (parking
garages, tunnels, deep snow
that may block underbody
airflow or tail pipes).

The exhaust smells or
sounds strange or different.

The exhaust system leaks
due to corrosion or damage.

The vehicle exhaust system
has been modified, damaged
or improperly repaired.
(Continued)

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (23,1)

Driving and Operating
WARNING (Continued)
.

There are holes or openings
in the vehicle body from
damage or aftermarket
modifications that are not
completely sealed.

If unusual fumes are detected or
if it is suspected that exhaust is
coming into the vehicle:
.

Drive it only with the windows
completely down.

Have the vehicle repaired
immediately.

Never park the vehicle with the
engine running in an enclosed
area such as a garage or a
building that has no fresh air
ventilation.

Running the Vehicle
While Parked
It is better not to park with the
engine running. But if you ever have
to, here are some things to know.

{ WARNING
Idling a vehicle in an enclosed
area with poor ventilation is
dangerous. Engine exhaust may
enter the vehicle. Engine exhaust
contains carbon monoxide (CO)
which cannot be seen or smelled.
It can cause unconsciousness
and even death. Never run the
engine in an enclosed area that
has no fresh air ventilation. For
more information, see Engine
Exhaust on page 9‑22.

9-23

{ WARNING
It can be dangerous to get out
of the vehicle if the automatic
transmission shift lever is not fully
in P (Park) with the parking brake
firmly set. The vehicle can roll. Do
not leave the vehicle when the
engine is running unless you
have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can
move suddenly. You or others
could be injured. To be sure the
vehicle will not move, even when
it is on fairly level ground, always
set the parking brake and move
the automatic transmission shift
lever to P (Park), or the manual
transmission shift lever to Neutral.
Follow the proper steps to be
sure the vehicle will not move.
If the vehicle has an automatic
transmission, see Shifting Into Park
(Automatic Transmission) on
page 9‑20.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-24

Black plate (24,1)

Driving and Operating

Automatic
Transmission

P (Park): This position locks the
front wheels. It is the best position
to use when you start the engine
because the vehicle cannot move
easily.

{ WARNING
It is dangerous to get out of the
vehicle if the shift lever is not fully
in P (Park) with the parking brake
firmly set. The vehicle can roll.
Do not leave the vehicle when the
engine is running unless you
have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can
move suddenly. You or others
could be injured. To be sure the
vehicle will not move, even when
you are on fairly level ground,
always set the parking brake and
move the shift lever to P (Park).
See Shifting Into Park (Automatic
Transmission) on page 9‑20.
Make sure the shift lever is fully in
P (Park) before starting the engine.
The vehicle has a shift lock control.
You must fully apply the brake pedal
then press the shift lever button
before you can shift from P (Park)
while the ignition key is in ON/RUN.

If you cannot shift out of P (Park),
ease pressure on the shift lever
and push the shift lever all the
way into P (Park) as you maintain
brake application. Then move the
shift lever into another gear. See
Shifting out of Park (Automatic
Transmission) on page 9‑21.
R (Reverse): Use this gear to
back up.
Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse)
while the vehicle is moving
forward could damage the
transmission. The repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Shift to R (Reverse) only
after the vehicle is stopped.
To rock the vehicle back and forth to
get out of snow, ice, or sand without
damaging the transmission, see If
the Vehicle Is Stuck on page 9‑9.
N (Neutral): In this position, the
engine does not connect with the
wheels. To restart the engine when
the vehicle is already moving, use

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (25,1)

Driving and Operating
N (Neutral) only. Also, use
N (Neutral) when the vehicle is
being towed.

{ WARNING
Shifting into a drive gear while the
engine is running at high speed is
dangerous. Unless your foot is
firmly on the brake pedal, the
vehicle could move very rapidly.
You could lose control and hit
people or objects. Do not shift
into a drive gear while the engine
is running at high speed.
Notice: Shifting out of P (Park)
or N (Neutral) with the engine
running at high speed may
damage the transmission. The
repairs would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Be sure the
engine is not running at high
speed when shifting the vehicle.

D (Drive): This position is for
normal driving. It provides the best
fuel economy. If you need more
power for passing, and you are:
.

Going less than 56 km/h
(35 mph), push the accelerator
pedal about halfway down.

Going about 56 km/h (35 mph) or
more, push the accelerator all
the way down.

9-25

When coming to a stop in the
manual position, the vehicle
will automatically shift into
1 (First) gear.

M (Manual Mode): This position,
allows you to change gears similar
to a manual transmission. If the
vehicle has this feature, see
“Manual Mode” following.

Manual Mode
To use this feature:
1. Move the shift lever from
D (Drive) rearward to
M (Manual Mode).
While driving in manual mode,
the transmission will remain
in the driver selected gear.

2. Press the + (plus) end of the
button on the side of the
shift lever to upshift, or push
the − (minus) end of the button
to downshift.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-26

Driving and Operating

The Driver Information Center (DIC)
in the instrument cluster will change
from the currently displayed
message to the letter “M,” for
Manual position, and a number
indicating the requested gear.

Manual Transmission

The transmission will only allow
you to shift into gears appropriate
for the vehicle speed and engine
revolutions per minute (rpm):

The transmission will not
automatically shift to the next
higher gear if the vehicle speed
or engine rpm is too low.
The transmission will not allow
shifting to the next lower gear if
the vehicle speed or engine rpm
is too high.

1 (First): Press the clutch pedal
and shift into 1 (First). Then, slowly
let up on the clutch pedal as you
press the accelerator pedal.
You can shift into 1 (First) when
going less than 32 km/h (20 mph).
If you have come to a complete stop
and it is hard to shift into 1 (First),
put the shift lever in Neutral and let
up on the clutch. Press the clutch
pedal back down. Then shift into
1 (First).

While using manual mode, the
transmission will have firmer shifting
and sportier performance. You can
use this for sport driving or when
climbing hills to stay in gear longer
or to downshift for more power or
engine braking.

Black plate (26,1)

The vehicle may be equipped with
a five‐speed or six‐speed manual
transmission.
Notice: Shifting the vehicle
initially into any gear other
than 1 (First) or R (Reverse) can
damage the clutch. Shift the
manual transmission in the
proper sequence, and time the
gear shifting with the accelerator
to avoid revving the engine and
damaging the clutch.

2 (Second): Press the clutch pedal
as you let up on the accelerator
pedal and shift into 2 (Second).
Then, slowly let up on the clutch
pedal as you press the accelerator
pedal.
3 (Third), 4 (Fourth), 5 (Fifth),
and 6 (Sixth): Shift into 3 (Third),
4 (Fourth), 5 (Fifth), and 6 (Sixth)
(if equipped) the same way as for
2 (Second). Slowly let up on the
clutch pedal as you press the
accelerator pedal.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (27,1)

Driving and Operating
To stop, let up on the accelerator
pedal and press the brake pedal.
Just before the vehicle stops, press
the clutch pedal and the brake
pedal, and shift to Neutral.
Neutral: Use this position when
you start or idle the engine.

Notice: Shifting to R (Reverse)
while the vehicle is moving
forward could damage the
transmission. The repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Shift to R (Reverse) only
after the vehicle is stopped.

Shift Speeds

{ WARNING
If you skip a gear when you
downshift, you could lose control
of the vehicle. You could injure
yourself or others. Do not shift
down more than one gear at a
time when you downshift.

R (Reverse): To back up, press
down the clutch pedal, lift up the
ring on the shift lever, and shift into
R (Reverse). Let up on the clutch
pedal slowly while pressing the
accelerator pedal.

9-27

Up‐Shift Light

Vehicles equipped with a manual
transmission may have an up-shift
light. This light indicates when to
shift to the next higher gear for
better fuel economy.
For the best fuel economy,
accelerate slowly and shift when the
light comes on, and if the weather,
road, and traffic conditions allow.
It is normal for the light to go on
and off if the accelerator position
changes quickly. Ignore the light
during downshifts.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-28

Black plate (28,1)

Driving and Operating

Brakes
Antilock Brake
System (ABS)
This vehicle has the Antilock Brake
System (ABS), an advanced
electronic braking system that helps
prevent a braking skid.
When the engine is started and the
vehicle begins to drive away, ABS
checks itself. A momentary motor or
clicking noise might be heard while
this test is going on, and it might
even be noticed that the brake
pedal moves a little. This is normal.

If there is a problem with ABS, this
warning light stays on. See Antilock
Brake System (ABS) Warning Light
on page 5‑16.

If driving safely on a wet road and
it becomes necessary to slam on
the brakes and continue braking
to avoid a sudden obstacle, a
computer senses that the wheels
are slowing down. If one of the
wheels is about to stop rolling, the
computer will separately work the
brakes at each wheel.
ABS can change the brake pressure
to each wheel, as required, faster
than any driver could. This can help
the driver steer around the obstacle
while braking hard.
As the brakes are applied, the
computer keeps receiving updates
on wheel speed and controls
braking pressure accordingly.
Remember: ABS does not change
the time needed to get a foot up to
the brake pedal or always decrease
stopping distance. If you get too
close to the vehicle in front of you,
there will not be enough time to
apply the brakes if that vehicle

suddenly slows or stops. Always
leave enough room up ahead to
stop, even with ABS.

Using ABS
Do not pump the brakes. Just hold
the brake pedal down firmly and let
ABS work. You might hear the ABS
pump or motor operating and feel
the brake pedal pulsate, but this is
normal.

Braking in Emergencies
ABS allows the driver to steer and
brake at the same time. In many
emergencies, steering can help
more than even the very best
braking.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (29,1)

Driving and Operating

Parking Brake

To release the parking brake, hold
the brake pedal down. Pull the
parking brake lever up until you can
press the release button. Hold the
release button in as you move the
brake lever all the way down.
Notice: Driving with the parking
brake on can overheat the brake
system and cause premature
wear or damage to brake system
parts. Make sure that the parking
brake is fully released and the
brake warning light is off before
driving.

To set the parking brake, hold the
brake pedal down and pull up on the
parking brake lever. If the ignition is
on, the brake system warning light
will come on. See Brake System
Warning Light on page 5‑16.

9-29

Ride Control Systems
Traction Control
System (TCS)
The vehicle has a Traction Control
System (TCS) that limits wheel spin.
On a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the
system operates if it senses that
one or both of the front wheels
are spinning or beginning to lose
traction. When this happens,
the system brakes the spinning
wheel(s), and/or reduces engine
power to limit wheel spin.
The system may be heard or felt
while it is working, but this is
normal.

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9-30

Black plate (30,1)

Driving and Operating

TCS is on whenever the vehicle
is started. To limit wheel spin,
especially in slippery road
conditions, the system should
always be left on. But, TCS can be
turned off if needed.

If d comes on and stays on, reset
the system:
1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Turn the engine off and wait
15 seconds.
3. Start the engine.
If d still comes on and stays on at a
speed above 20 km/h (13 mph), see
your dealer for service.

TCS/StabiliTrak Light

d flashes to indicate that the
traction control system is active.
If there is a problem detected with
TCS, a message may be displayed
on the Driver Information Center
(DIC). See Vehicle Messages on
page 5‑27. When this message is
displayed and d comes on and
stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive
but the system is not operational.
Driving should be adjusted
accordingly.

A chime may also sound when the
light comes on steady.

TCS/StabiliTrak Button

Notice: Do not repeatedly brake
or accelerate heavily when TCS is
off. The vehicle's driveline could
be damaged.
TCS Off Light
TCS can be turned off by pressing
and releasing the TCS/StabiliTrak
button g. When TCS is turned off,
the TCS Off light i comes on and
the system will not limit wheel spin.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (31,1)

Driving and Operating
Driving should be adjusted
accordingly. Press and release
the TCS/StabiliTrak button again to
turn the system back on.
It may be necessary to turn the
system off if the vehicle gets stuck
in sand, mud, or snow and rocking
the vehicle is required. See If the
Vehicle Is Stuck on page 9‑9. See
Winter Driving on page 9‑7 for
information on using TCS when
driving in snowy or icy conditions.
If cruise control is being used when
TCS activates, cruise control will
automatically disengage. Press the
appropriate cruise control button to
reengage when road conditions
allow. See Cruise Control on
page 9‑33.
Adding accessories can affect the
vehicle performance. See
Accessories and Modifications on
page 10‑3.

9-31

StabiliTrak® System
The vehicle has a vehicle stability
enhancement system called
StabiliTrak. It is an advanced
computer controlled system that
assists with directional control of the
vehicle in difficult driving conditions.
StabiliTrak activates when the
computer senses a difference
between the intended path, and
the direction the vehicle is actually
traveling. StabiliTrak selectively
applies braking pressure at any one
of the vehicle's brakes to help steer
the vehicle in the intended direction.
StabiliTrak is on automatically
whenever the vehicle is started. To
assist with directional control of the
vehicle, the system should always
be left on.

TCS/StabiliTrak Light
When the stability control system
activates, d flashes on the
instrument panel. This also occurs
when traction control is activated.
A noise may be heard or vibration
may be felt in the brake pedal. This
is normal. Continue to steer the
vehicle in the intended direction.
If there is a problem detected with
StabiliTrak, a message is displayed
on the Driver Information Center
(DIC). See Vehicle Messages on
page 5‑27. When this message is
displayed and/or d comes on and
stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive
but the system is not operational.
Driving should be adjusted
accordingly.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-32

Black plate (32,1)

Driving and Operating

If d comes on and stays on, reset
the system:

the Traction Off light i and the
StabiliTrak Off light g come on in the
instrument panel. When StabiliTrak
is turned off, the system will not
assist with directional control of the
vehicle or limit wheel spin. Driving
should be adjusted accordingly.
Press and release the TCS/
StabiliTrak button again to turn the
system back on.

1. Stop the vehicle.
2. Turn the engine off and wait
15 seconds.
3. Start the engine.
If d still comes on and stays on at a
speed above 20 km/h (13 mph), see
your dealer for service.
TCS/StabiliTrak Button

StabiliTrak Off
Light

TCS Off Light

StabiliTrak can be turned off if
needed by pressing and holding
the TCS/StabiliTrak button g until

If cruise control is being used when
StabiliTrak activates, cruise control
will automatically disengage. Press
the appropriate cruise control button
to reengage when road conditions
allow. See Cruise Control on
page 9‑33.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (33,1)

Driving and Operating

Cruise Control
For vehicles with cruise control, the
vehicle can maintain a speed of
about 40 km/h (25 mph) or more
without keeping your foot on the
accelerator. Cruise control does not
work at speeds below 40 km/h
(25 mph).
If the brakes are applied, the cruise
control shuts off.
If the vehicle's Traction Control
System (TCS) or StabiliTrak system
begins to limit wheel spin while
using cruise control, the cruise
control will automatically disengage.
See Traction Control System (TCS)
on page 9‑29 or StabiliTrak® System
on page 9‑31. When road conditions
allow you to safely use it again,
the cruise control can be turned
back on.

9-33

{ WARNING
Cruise control can be dangerous
where you cannot drive safely at
a steady speed. So, do not use
the 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.

1 (On/Off): Press to turn the
cruise control system on and off.
RES/+ (Resume/Accelerate):
Move the thumbwheel up to resume
a previously set speed or to
accelerate.
SET/− (Set/Coast): Move the
thumbwheel down to set a speed or
to make the vehicle decelerate.

* (Cancel):

Press to disengage
cruise control without erasing the
set speed from memory.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-34

Driving and Operating

Setting Cruise Control
If 1 is on when not in use, it could
get bumped and go into cruise when
not desired. Keep 1 off when cruise
control is not being used.
To set cruise control:
1. Press

Black plate (34,1)

briefly. The vehicle returns to the
speed selected previously and stays
there.
Increasing Speed While Using
Cruise Control
If the cruise control system is
already activated:
.

Move the thumbwheel up toward
RES/+ and hold it until the
desired speed is reached, then
release it.

To increase the speed in small
amounts, move the thumbwheel
up toward RES/+ briefly and
then release it. Each time this is
done, the vehicle goes about
1.6 km/h (1 mph) faster.

2. Get to the speed desired.
3. Move the thumbwheel down to
SET/‐ and release it.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator
pedal.
Resuming a Set Speed
If the cruise control is set at a
desired speed and then the brakes
or clutch for manual transmissions
are applied, the cruise control is
disengaged without erasing the set
speed from memory.
Once the vehicle reaches about
40 km/h (25 mph) or more, move
the thumbwheel up toward RES/+

Reducing Speed While Using
Cruise Control
If the cruise control system is
already activated:
.

Move the thumbwheel toward
SET/− and hold until the desired
lower speed is reached, then
release it.

To slow down in small amounts,
move the thumbwheel toward
SET/− briefly. Each time this is
done, the vehicle goes about
1.6 km/h (1 mph) slower.

Passing Another Vehicle While
Using Cruise Control
Use the accelerator pedal to
increase the vehicle speed. When
you take your foot off the pedal, the
vehicle slows down to the previous
set cruise control speed.
Using Cruise Control on Hills
How well cruise control works on
hills depends on the vehicle speed,
load, and the steepness of the
hills. When going up steep hills,
you might have to step on the
accelerator pedal to maintain
the vehicle speed. When going
downhill, you might have to brake or
shift to a lower gear to maintain the
vehicle speed. When the brakes
are applied, cruise control is
disengaged.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (35,1)

Driving and Operating
Ending Cruise Control
There are three ways to end cruise
control:
.

To disengage cruise control,
step lightly on the brake pedal or
clutch for manual transmission.

Press

To turn off cruise control,
press 5 on the steering wheel.

* on the steering wheel.

Erasing Speed Memory
The cruise control set speed is
erased from memory if the 5 button
is pressed or if the ignition is
turned off.

9-35

Fuel
Use of the recommended fuel is
an important part of the proper
maintenance of this vehicle. To help
keep the engine clean and maintain
optimum vehicle performance, we
recommend the use of gasoline
advertised as TOP TIER Detergent
Gasoline.
Look for the TOP TIER label on the
fuel pump to ensure gasoline meets
enhanced detergency standards
developed by auto companies. A list
of marketers providing TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline can be found at
www.toptiergas.com.

Recommended Fuel
Use regular unleaded gasoline with
a posted octane rating of 87 or
higher. If the octane rating is less
than 87, an audible knocking noise,
commonly referred to as spark
knock, might be heard when driving.
If this occurs, use a gasoline rated
at 87 octane or higher as soon as
possible. If heavy knocking is heard
when using gasoline rated at
87 octane or higher, the engine
needs service.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-36

Black plate (36,1)

Driving and Operating

Gasoline Specifications
At a minimum, gasoline should
meet ASTM specification D 4814
in the United States or CAN/
CGSB‐3.5 or 3.511 in Canada.
Some gasolines contain an
octane-enhancing additive called
methylcyclopentadienyl manganese
tricarbonyl (MMT). We recommend
against the use of gasolines
containing MMT. See Fuel Additives
on page 9‑36 for additional
information.

California Fuel
Requirements
If the vehicle is certified to meet
California Emissions Standards, it is
designed to operate on fuels that
meet California specifications. See
the underhood emission control
label. If this fuel is not available in
states adopting California Emissions
Standards, the vehicle will operate
satisfactorily on fuels meeting
federal specifications, but emission
control system performance might

be affected. The malfunction
indicator lamp could turn on and the
vehicle might fail a smog‐check test.
See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
page 5‑13. If this occurs, return to
your authorized dealer for diagnosis.
If it is determined that the condition
is caused by the type of fuel used,
repairs might not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.

Fuels in Foreign
Countries
Never use leaded gasoline or any
other fuel not recommended in the
previous text on fuel. Costly repairs
caused by use of improper fuel
would not be covered by the vehicle
warranty.
To check the fuel availability, ask an
auto club, or contact a major oil
company that does business in the
country where you will be driving.

Fuel Additives
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines
in the United States are now
required to contain additives that
help prevent engine and fuel system
deposits from forming, allowing the
emission control system to work
properly. In most cases, nothing
should have to be added to the fuel.
However, some gasolines contain
only the minimum amount of
additive required to meet U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency
regulations. To help keep fuel
injectors and intake valves clean
and avoid problems due to dirty
injectors or valves, look for gasoline
that is advertised as TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline. Look for the
TOP TIER label on the fuel pump to
ensure gasoline meets enhanced
detergency standards developed
by the auto companies. A list of
marketers providing TOP TIER
Detergent Gasoline can be found at
www.toptiergas.com.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (37,1)

Driving and Operating
For customers who do not use TOP
TIER Detergent Gasoline regularly,
one bottle of GM Fuel System
Treatment PLUS, added to the fuel
tank at every engine oil change,
can help clean deposits from fuel
injectors and intake valves. GM Fuel
System Treatment PLUS is the only
gasoline additive recommended by
General Motors. It is available at
your dealer.
Gasolines containing oxygenates,
such as ethers and ethanol, and
reformulated gasolines might be
available in your area. We
recommend that you use these
gasolines, if they comply with the
specifications described earlier.
However, E85 (85% ethanol) and
other fuels containing more than
15% ethanol must not be used in
vehicles that were not designed for
those fuels.

Notice: This vehicle was not
designed for fuel that contains
methanol. Do not use fuel
containing methanol. It can
corrode metal parts in the fuel
system and also damage plastic
and rubber parts. That damage
would not be covered under the
vehicle warranty.
Some gasolines that are
not reformulated for low
emissions can contain an
octane-enhancing additive called
methylcyclopentadienyl manganese
tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant
where you buy gasoline whether the
fuel contains MMT. We recommend
against the use of such gasolines.
Fuels containing MMT can reduce
spark plug life and affect emission
control system performance. The
malfunction indicator lamp might
turn on. If this occurs, return to your
dealer for service.

9-37

Filling the Tank

{ WARNING
Fuel vapor burns violently and a
fuel fire can cause bad injuries.
To help avoid injuries to you and
others, read and follow all the
instructions on the fuel pump
island. Turn off the engine when
refueling. Do not smoke near fuel
or when refueling the vehicle. Do
not use cellular phones. Keep
sparks, flames, and smoking
materials away from fuel. Do not
leave the fuel pump unattended
when refueling the vehicle. This is
against the law in some places.
Do not re-enter the vehicle while
pumping fuel. Keep children away
from the fuel pump; never let
children pump fuel.
The tethered fuel cap is located
behind a hinged fuel door on the
passenger side of the vehicle.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-38

Black plate (38,1)

Driving and Operating

To remove the fuel cap, turn it
slowly counterclockwise. The fuel
cap has a spring in it; if the cap is
released too soon, it will spring back
to the right.

{ WARNING
Fuel can spray out on you if you
open the fuel cap too quickly.
If you spill fuel and then
something ignites it, you could be
badly burned. This spray can
happen if the tank is nearly full,
and is more likely in hot weather.
Open the fuel cap slowly and wait
for any hiss noise to stop. Then
unscrew the cap all the way.

Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not
top off or overfill the tank. Wait a
few seconds after you have finished
pumping before removing the
nozzle. Clean fuel from painted
surfaces as soon as possible. See
“Washing the Vehicle” in Exterior
Care on page 10‑80.
When replacing the fuel cap, turn
it clockwise until it clicks. Make
sure the cap is fully installed. The
diagnostic system can determine if
the fuel cap has been left off or
improperly installed. This would
allow fuel to evaporate into the
atmosphere. See Malfunction
Indicator Lamp on page 5‑13.

{ WARNING
If a fire starts while you are
refueling, do not remove the
nozzle. Shut off the flow of fuel
by shutting off the pump or by
notifying the station attendant.
Leave the area immediately.
Notice: If a new fuel cap is
needed, be sure to get the right
type of cap from your dealer. The
wrong type of fuel cap might not
fit properly, might cause the
malfunction indicator lamp to
light, and could damage the fuel
tank and emissions system. See
Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
page 5‑13.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (39,1)

Driving and Operating

Filling a Portable Fuel
Container

WARNING (Continued)
.

{ WARNING
Never fill a portable fuel container
while it is in the vehicle. Static
electricity discharge from the
container can ignite the fuel
vapor. You can be badly burned
and the vehicle damaged if this
occurs. To help avoid injury to you
and others:
.

Dispense fuel only into
approved containers.

Do not fill a container while
it is inside a vehicle, in a
vehicle's trunk, pickup bed,
or on any surface other than
the ground.
(Continued)

Bring the fill nozzle in contact
with the inside of the fill
opening before operating the
nozzle. Contact should be
maintained until the filling is
complete.

Do not smoke while
pumping fuel.

Do not use a cellular phone
while pumping fuel.

9-39

Towing
General Towing
Information
The vehicle is neither designed nor
intended to tow a trailer.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

9-40

Driving and Operating

Conversions and
Add-Ons
Add-On Electrical
Equipment
Notice: Do not add anything
electrical to the vehicle unless
you check with your dealer first.
Some electrical equipment can
damage the vehicle and the
damage would not be covered by
the vehicle's warranty. Some
add-on electrical equipment can
keep other components from
working as they should.

Add-on equipment can drain the
vehicle's 12‐volt battery, even if the
vehicle is not operating.
The vehicle has an airbag system.
Before attempting to add anything
electrical to the vehicle, see
Servicing the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle on page 3‑30 and Adding
Equipment to the Airbag-Equipped
Vehicle on page 3‑30.

Black plate (40,1)

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Black plate (1,1)

Vehicle Care

Vehicle Care
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . .
California Proposition
65 Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
California Perchlorate
Materials Requirements . . . .
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10-2
10-2
10-3
10-3

Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own
Service Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Engine Compartment
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6
Engine Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-9
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-12
Automatic Transmission
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Manual Transmission
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Hydraulic Clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . 10-13
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Engine Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Engine Overheating . . . . . . . . 10-19

Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Brake Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-23
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . 10-24
Automatic Transmission Shift
Lock Control Function
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Ignition Transmission Lock
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-25
Park Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . 10-25
Wiper Blade
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-26

Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . 10-27

Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and Back-Up
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
License Plate Lamp . . . . . . . . 10-31
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . 10-32

10-1

Electrical System
Electrical System
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine Compartment Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10-32
10-33
10-33
10-36

Wheels and Tires
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38
Tire Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . 10-38
Tire Designations . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41
Tire Terminology and
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44
Tire Pressure Monitor
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46
Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-47
Tire Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Tire Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52
Different Size Tires and
Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54

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10-2

Black plate (2,1)

Vehicle Care

Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . 10-56
Tire Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Storing the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . 10-66
Tire Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . 10-73

Jump Starting
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74

Towing
Towing the Vehicle . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Recreational Vehicle
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77

Appearance Care
Exterior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-80
Interior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-86

General Information
For service and parts needs, visit
your dealer. You will receive
genuine GM parts and GM-trained
and supported service people.
Genuine GM parts have one of
these marks:

California Proposition
65 Warning
Most motor vehicles, including this
one, contain and/or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and birth defects or
other reproductive harm. Engine
exhaust, many parts and systems,
many fluids, and some component
wear by-products contain and/or
emit these chemicals.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

Vehicle Care

California Perchlorate
Materials Requirements

Accessories and
Modifications

Certain types of automotive
applications, such as airbag
initiators, safety belt pretensioners,
and lithium batteries contained in
Remote Keyless Entry transmitters,
may contain perchlorate materials.
Special handling may be necessary.
For additional information, see
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
perchlorate.

Adding non‐dealer accessories or
making modifications to the vehicle
can affect vehicle performance and
safety, including such things as
airbags, braking, stability, ride and
handling, emissions systems,
aerodynamics, durability, and
electronic systems like antilock
brakes, traction control, and stability
control. These accessories or
modifications could even cause
malfunction or damage not covered
by the vehicle warranty.

10-3

Damage to vehicle components
resulting from modifications or the
installation or use of non‐GM
certified parts, including control
module or software modifications, is
not covered under the terms of the
vehicle warranty and may affect
remaining warranty coverage for
affected parts.
GM Accessories are designed to
complement and function with other
systems on the vehicle. See your
dealer to accessorize the vehicle
using genuine GM Accessories
installed by a dealer technician.
Also, see Adding Equipment to the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
page 3‑30.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-4

Black plate (4,1)

Vehicle Care

Vehicle Checks
Doing Your Own
Service Work

{ WARNING
It can be dangerous to work on
your vehicle if you do not have
the proper knowledge, service
manual, tools, or parts. Always
follow owner manual procedures
and consult the service manual
for your vehicle before doing any
service work.

If doing some of your own service
work, use the proper service
manual. It tells you much more
about how to service the vehicle
than this manual can. To order the
proper service manual, see Service
Publications Ordering Information
on page 13‑12.

Hood
To open the hood:

This vehicle has an airbag system.
Before attempting to do your own
service work, see Servicing the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
page 3‑30.
Keep a record with all parts receipts
and list the mileage and the date of
any service work performed. See
Maintenance Records on
page 11‑15.

1. Pull the hood release handle
inside the vehicle. It is located
on the lower left side of the
instrument panel.

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Black plate (5,1)

Vehicle Care

10-5

To close the hood:
1. Before closing the hood, be sure
all filler caps are on properly.
Then, lift the hood to relieve
pressure on the hood prop.
Remove the hood prop from
the slot in the underside of the
hood and return the prop to its
retainer. The prop rod must click
into place when returning it to
the retainer to prevent hood
damage.
2. Go to the front of the vehicle
and move the secondary hood
release lever toward the right
side of the vehicle.

3. Lift the hood and release the
hood prop from its retainer,
located in front of the engine
compartment. Securely place the
hood prop into the slot on the
underside of the hood.

2. Lower the hood 30 cm (12 in)
above the vehicle and release
it so it fully latches. Check to
make sure the hood is closed
and repeat the process if
necessary.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-6

Black plate (6,1)

Vehicle Care

Engine Compartment Overview

1.4L L4 Engine

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

Vehicle Care
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on
page 10‑13.

D. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.

B. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.

E. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap. See Cooling
System on page 10‑15.

C. Engine Electric Cooling Fan
(Out of View). See Cooling
System on page 10‑15.

Brake/Clutch Fluid Reservoir.
See Brakes on page 10‑21 and
Hydraulic Clutch on page 10‑13.

10-7

G. Battery on page 10‑23.
H. Windshield Washer Fluid
Reservoir. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑20.
I.

Engine Compartment Fuse
Block on page 10‑33.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-8

Black plate (8,1)

Vehicle Care

1.8L L4 Engine

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

Vehicle Care
A. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on
page 10‑13.
B. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.
C. Engine Electric Cooling Fan
(Out of View). See Cooling
System on page 10‑15.
D. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9.
E. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap. See Cooling
System on page 10‑15.
F.

Brake/Clutch Fluid Reservoir.
See Brakes on page 10‑21 and
Hydraulic Clutch on page 10‑13.

G. Battery on page 10‑23.
H. Engine Compartment Fuse
Block on page 10‑33.
I.

Windshield Washer Fluid
Reservoir. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑20.

Engine Oil
To ensure proper engine
performance and long life, careful
attention must be paid to engine
oil. Following these simple, but
important steps will help protect
your investment:
.

Always use engine oil approved
to the proper specification and of
the proper viscosity grade. See
“Selecting the Right Engine Oil”
in this section.

Check the engine oil level
regularly and maintain the
proper oil level. See “Checking
Engine Oil” and “When to Add
Engine Oil” in this section.

10-9

Change the engine oil at the
appropriate time. See Engine Oil
Life System on page 10‑12.

Always dispose of engine oil
properly. See “What to Do with
Used Oil” in this section.

If the engine oil pressure light
comes on, check the engine oil level
right away. The oil pressure light is
on the instrument panel cluster.
See Engine Oil Pressure Light on
page 5‑20. Check the engine oil
level regularly; this is an added
reminder.

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10-10

Black plate (10,1)

Vehicle Care

Checking Engine Oil
It is a good idea to check the engine
oil level at each fuel fill. In order to
get an accurate reading, the oil
must be warm and the vehicle must
be on level ground. The engine oil
dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See
Engine Compartment Overview on
page 10‑6 for the location of the
engine oil dipstick.
1. If the engine has been running
recently, turn off the engine and
allow several minutes for the oil
to drain back into the oil pan.
Checking the oil level too soon
after engine shutoff will not
provide an accurate oil level
reading.
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it
with a paper towel or cloth, then
push it back in all the way.
Remove it again, keeping the tip
down, and check the level.

When to Add Engine Oil

If the oil is below the MIN
(minimum) mark on the dipstick,
add 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended
oil and then recheck the level. See
“Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in
this section for an explanation of
what kind of oil to use. For engine
oil crankcase capacity, see
Capacities and Specifications on
page 12‑2.
Notice: Do not add too much oil.
Oil levels above or below the
acceptable operating range
shown on the dipstick are harmful
to the engine. If you find that
you have an oil level above the

operating range, i.e., the engine
has so much oil that the oil level
gets above the upper mark that
shows the proper operating
range, the engine could be
damaged. You should drain out
the excess oil or limit driving of
the vehicle and seek a service
professional to remove the
excess amount of oil.
See Engine Compartment Overview
on page 10‑6 for the location of the
engine oil fill cap.
Add enough oil to put the level
somewhere in the proper operating
range. Push the dipstick all the way
back in when through.

Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Selecting the right engine oil
depends on both the proper oil
specification and viscosity grade.
See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑12.

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Black plate (11,1)

Vehicle Care
Specification

Viscosity Grade

Use and ask for licensed engine
oils with the dexos1® approved
certification mark. Engine oils
meeting the requirements for the
vehicle should have the dexos1
approved certification mark. This
certification mark indicates that
the oil has been approved to the
dexos1 specification.

SAE 5W‐30 is the best viscosity
grade for the vehicle. Do not use
other viscosity grade oils such as
SAE 10W‐30, 10W‐40, or 20W‐50.

Notice: Failure to use the
recommended engine oil or
equivalent can result in engine
damage not covered by the
vehicle warranty. Check with your
dealer or service provider on
whether the oil is approved to the
dexos1 specification.

If in an area of extreme cold, where
the temperature falls below −20°F
(−29°C), an SAE 0W‐30 oil should
be used. An oil of this viscosity
grade will provide easier cold
starting for the engine at extremely
low temperatures. When selecting
an oil of the appropriate viscosity
grade, always select an oil that
meets the dexos1 specification or
equivalent. See “Specification” for
more information.

Engine Oil Additives/Engine
Oil Flushes
Do not add anything to the oil. The
recommended oils with the dexos
specification and displaying the
dexos certification mark are all that
is needed for good performance and
engine protection.

10-11

Engine oil system flushes are not
recommended and could cause
engine damage not covered by the
vehicle warranty.

What to Do with Used Oil
Used engine oil contains certain
elements that can be unhealthy for
your skin and could even cause
cancer. Do not let used oil stay on
your skin for very long. Clean your
skin and nails with soap and water,
or a good hand cleaner. Wash or
properly dispose of clothing or rags
containing used engine oil. See the
manufacturer's warnings about the
use and disposal of oil products.
Used oil can be a threat to the
environment. If you change your
own oil, be sure to drain all the oil
from the filter before disposal. Never
dispose of oil by putting it in the
trash or pouring it on the ground,
into sewers, or into streams or
bodies of water. Recycle it by taking
it to a place that collects used oil.

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10-12

Black plate (12,1)

Vehicle Care

Engine Oil Life System
When to Change Engine Oil
This vehicle has a computer system
that indicates when to change the
engine oil and filter. This is based
on a combination of factors which
include engine revolutions, engine
temperature, and miles driven.
Based on driving conditions, the
mileage at which an oil change is
indicated can vary considerably. For
the oil life system to work properly,
the system must be reset every time
the oil is changed.
When the system has calculated
that oil life has been diminished, it
indicates that an oil change is
necessary. A Code 82 (change
engine oil soon) DIC message
comes on. See Vehicle Messages
on page 5‑27. Change the oil as
soon as possible within the next
1 000 km (600 mi). It is possible that,
if driving under the best conditions,
the oil life system might indicate that
an oil change is not necessary for
up to a year. The engine oil and

filter must be changed at least once
a year and, at this time, the system
must be reset. Your dealer has
trained service people who will
perform this work and reset the
system. It is also important to check
the oil regularly over the course of
an oil drain interval and keep it at
the proper level.
If the system is ever reset
accidentally, the oil must be
changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi)
since the last oil change.
Remember to reset the oil life
system whenever the oil is changed.

2. Press the SET/CLR button to
reset the oil life at 100%. When
prompted, use the thumbwheel
to highlight YES or NO. Press
the SET/CLEAR button to
confirm.
Be careful not to reset the oil life
display accidentally at any time
other than after the oil is changed.
It cannot be reset accurately.
If the Code 82 DIC message comes
back on when the vehicle is started,
the engine oil life system has not
reset. Repeat the procedure.

How to Reset the Engine Oil
Life System

Automatic Transmission
Fluid

Reset the system whenever the
engine oil is changed so that the
system can calculate the next
engine oil change. To reset the
system:

How to Check Automatic
Transmission Fluid

1. Using the DIC MENU button
and thumbwheel, scroll until you
reach Remaining Oil Life on
the DIC.

It is not necessary to check
the transmission fluid level.
A transmission fluid leak is the
only reason for fluid loss. If a leak
occurs, take the vehicle to your
dealer and have it repaired as soon
as possible.

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Black plate (13,1)

Vehicle Care
There is a special procedure for
checking and changing the
transmission fluid. Because this
procedure is difficult, you should
have this done at your dealer.
Change the fluid and filter at the
intervals listed in Maintenance
Schedule on page 11‑3, and be
sure to use the fluid listed in
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑12.

Manual Transmission
Fluid
It is not necessary to check the
manual transmission fluid level.
A transmission fluid leak is the
only reason for fluid loss. If a leak
occurs, take the vehicle to your
dealer and have it repaired as soon
as possible. See Recommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 11‑12
for the proper fluid to use.

Hydraulic Clutch
For vehicles with a manual
transmission, it is not necessary to
regularly check brake/clutch fluid
unless there is a leak suspected.
Adding fluid will not correct a leak.
A fluid loss in this system could
indicate a problem. Have the
system inspected and repaired.

When to Check and What
to Use
The common hydraulic clutch and
brake master cylinder fluid reservoir
is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as
indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Engine Compartment Overview on
page 10‑6 for reservoir location.

How to Check and Add Fluid
Visually check the brake/clutch fluid
reservoir to make sure the fluid level
is at the MIN (minimum) line on the
side of the reservoir. The brake/
hydraulic clutch fluid system should
be closed and sealed.

10-13

Do not remove the cap to check
the fluid level or to top‐off the fluid
level. Remove the cap only when
necessary to add the proper fluid
until the level reaches the MIN line.

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
The engine air cleaner/filter is
located in the engine compartment
on the passenger side of the
vehicle. See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 10‑6 for more
information on location.

When to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter
Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the
scheduled maintenance intervals.
See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3 for more information.
If you are driving in dusty/dirty
conditions, inspect the filter at each
engine oil change.

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10-14

Black plate (14,1)

Vehicle Care

How to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter

{ WARNING

To inspect the engine air cleaner/
filter, remove the filter from the
vehicle and lightly shake the filter to
release loose dust and dirt. If the
filter remains covered with dirt, a
new filter is required.

Operating the engine with the air
cleaner/filter off can cause you or
others to be burned. The air
cleaner not only cleans the air; it
helps to stop flames if the engine
backfires. Use caution when
working on the engine and do not
drive with the air cleaner/filter off.

To inspect or replace the air cleaner/
filter:
1.8L L4 Engine
1. Remove the two screws, tilt the
cover, and slide it out of the
assembly.
2. Inspect or replace the engine air
cleaner/filter.
3. Lower the cover, slide it into the
assembly, then secure with the
two screws.
1.4L L4 Engine

See Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3 for replacement intervals.

Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is
off, dirt can easily get into the
engine, which could damage it.
Always have the air cleaner/filter
in place when you are driving.

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Black plate (15,1)

Vehicle Care

Cooling System

{ WARNING

The cooling system allows the
engine to maintain the correct
working temperature.

Heater and radiator hoses, and
other engine parts, can be very
hot. Do not touch them. If you do,
you can be burned.

1.8L L4 Engine
A. Engine Electric Cooling Fan
(Out of View)
1.4L L4 Engine
A. Engine Electric Cooling Fan
(Out of View)
B. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap

10-15

B. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and
Pressure Cap

{ WARNING
An electric engine cooling fan
under the hood can start up even
when the engine is not running
and can cause injury. Keep
hands, clothing, and tools away
from any underhood electric fan.

Do not run the engine if there is a
leak. If you run the engine, it
could lose all coolant. That could
cause an engine fire, and you
could be burned. Get any leak
fixed before you drive the vehicle.
Notice: Using coolant other than
DEX‐COOL® can cause premature
engine, heater core, or radiator
corrosion. In addition, the engine
coolant may require changing
sooner, at the first maintenance
service after each 30,000 miles
(50 000 km) or 24 months,
whichever occurs first. Any
repairs would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Always use
DEX‐COOL® (silicate‐free) coolant
in the vehicle.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-16

Black plate (16,1)

Vehicle Care

Engine Coolant

WARNING (Continued)

The cooling system in the vehicle
is filled with DEX-COOL engine
coolant. This coolant is designed to
remain in the vehicle for 5 years or
240 000 km (150,000 mi), whichever
occurs first.
The following explains the cooling
system and how to check and add
coolant when it is low. If there is a
problem with engine overheating,
see Engine Overheating on
page 10‑19.

What to Use

mixture, the engine could get too
hot but you would not get the
overheat warning. The engine
could catch fire and you or
others could be burned. Use a
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and DEX-COOL coolant.
Use a 50/50 mixture of clean
drinkable water and DEX-COOL
coolant. This mixture:
.

Gives freezing protection down
to −37°C (−34°F), outside
temperature.

Gives boiling protection up to
129°C (265°F), engine
temperature.

Protects against rust and
corrosion.

Will not damage aluminum parts.

Helps keep the proper engine
temperature.

Notice: If an improper coolant
mixture is used, the engine could
overheat and be badly damaged.
The repair cost would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Too much water in the mixture
can freeze and crack the engine,
radiator, heater core, and other
parts.
Never dispose of engine coolant by
putting it in the trash, pouring it on
the ground, or into sewers, streams,
or bodies of water. Have the
coolant changed by an authorized
service center, familiar with legal
requirements regarding used
coolant disposal. This will help
protect the environment and your
health.

Checking Coolant
The vehicle must be on a level
surface when checking the coolant
level.
It is normal to see coolant moving in
the upper coolant hose return line
when the engine is running.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (17,1)

Vehicle Care
Check to see if coolant is visible in
the coolant surge tank. If the coolant
inside the coolant surge tank is
boiling, do not do anything else until
it cools down.
If coolant is visible but the coolant
level is not at or above the mark
pointed to, add a 50/50 mixture
of clean drinkable water and
DEX-COOL coolant.
Be sure the cooling system is cool
before this is done.
If no coolant is visible in the coolant
surge tank, add coolant as follows:

How to Add Coolant to the
Coolant Surge Tank
Notice: This vehicle has a
specific coolant fill procedure.
Failure to follow this procedure
could cause the engine to
overheat and be severely
damaged.
If no problem is found, check to see
if coolant is visible in the coolant
surge tank. If coolant is visible
but the coolant level is not at the

indicated level mark, add a
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and DEX-COOL coolant at
the coolant surge tank, but be sure
the cooling system, including the
coolant surge tank pressure cap, is
cool before you do it.

{ WARNING
Steam and scalding liquids from a
hot cooling system can blow out
and burn you badly. They are
under pressure, and if you turn
the coolant surge tank pressure
cap — even a little — they can
come out at high speed. Never
turn the cap when the cooling
system, including the coolant
surge tank pressure cap, is hot.
Wait for the cooling system and
coolant surge tank pressure cap
to cool if you ever have to turn
the pressure cap.

10-17

{ WARNING
Adding only plain water or some
other liquid to the cooling system
can be dangerous. Plain water
and other liquids, can boil before
the proper coolant mixture will.
The coolant warning system is set
for the proper coolant mixture.
With plain water or the wrong
mixture, the engine could get too
hot but you would not get the
overheat warning. The engine
could catch fire and you or
others could be burned. Use a
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and DEX-COOL coolant.
Notice: In cold weather, water
can freeze and crack the engine,
radiator, heater core and other
parts. Use the recommended
coolant and the proper coolant
mixture.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-18

Black plate (18,1)

Vehicle Care

{ WARNING
You can be burned if you spill
coolant on hot engine parts.
Coolant contains ethylene glycol
and it will burn if the engine parts
are hot enough. Do not spill
coolant on a hot engine.

Turn the pressure cap slowly
counterclockwise about
one-quarter of a turn. If you
hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.
This will allow any pressure
still left to be vented out the
discharge hose.
2. Keep turning the pressure cap
slowly and remove it.

By this time, the coolant level
inside the coolant surge tank
may be lower. If the level is
lower, add more of the proper
DEX-COOL coolant mixture to
the coolant surge tank until the
level reaches the indicated
level mark.
5. Replace the pressure cap. Be
sure the pressure cap is
hand-tight.

1.4L Engine Shown, 1.8L Engine
Similar
1. Remove the coolant surge tank
pressure cap when the cooling
system, including the coolant
surge tank pressure cap and
upper radiator hose, is no
longer hot.

4. With the coolant surge tank
pressure cap off, start the
engine and let it run until you
can feel the upper radiator hose
getting hot. Watch out for the
engine cooling fan.

3. Fill the coolant surge tank with
the proper DEX-COOL coolant
mixture to the indicated
level mark.

Check the level in the coolant
surge tank when the cooling system
has cooled down. If the coolant is
not at the proper level, repeat
Steps 1–3 and reinstall the pressure
cap. If the coolant still is not at the
proper level when the system cools
down again, see your dealer.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (19,1)

Vehicle Care

Engine Overheating
The vehicle has an indicator to warn
of the engine overheating.
If the decision is made not to lift the
hood when this warning appears,
get service help right away. See
Roadside Assistance Program on
page 13‑5.
If the decision is made to lift the
hood, make sure the vehicle is
parked on a level surface.
Then check to see if the engine
cooling fan is running. If the engine
is overheating, the fan should be
running. If it is not, do not continue
to run the engine. Have the vehicle
serviced.
Notice: Engine damage from
running the engine without
coolant is not covered by the
warranty.
Notice: If the engine catches fire
because of being driven with no
coolant, the vehicle can be badly

damaged. The costly repairs
would not be covered by the
vehicle warranty.

If Steam Is Coming from the
Engine Compartment

{ WARNING
Steam from an overheated engine
can burn you badly, even if you
just open the hood. Stay away
from the engine if you see or hear
steam coming from it. Just turn it
off and get everyone away from
the vehicle until it cools down.
Wait until there is no sign of
steam or coolant before you open
the hood.
If you keep driving when the
engine is overheated, the liquids
in it can catch fire. You or others
could be badly burned. Stop the
engine if it overheats, and get out
of the vehicle until the engine
is cool.

10-19

If No Steam Is Coming from
the Engine Compartment
If an engine overheat warning is
displayed but no steam can be seen
or heard, the problem may not be
too serious. Sometimes the engine
can get a little too hot when the
vehicle:
.

Climbs a long hill on a hot day.

Stops after high-speed driving.

Idles for long periods in traffic.

If the overheat warning is displayed
with no sign of steam:
1. Turn the air conditioning off.
2. Turn the heater on to the highest
temperature and to the highest
fan speed. Open the windows as
necessary.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-20

Black plate (20,1)

Vehicle Care

3. In heavy traffic, let the engine
idle in N (Neutral) for an
automatic transmission
or Neutral for a manual
transmission while stopped.
If it is safe to do so, pull off
the road, shift to P (Park) or
N (Neutral) for an automatic
transmission or Neutral for a
manual transmission, and let the
engine idle.
If the overheat warning no longer
displays, the vehicle can be driven.
Continue to drive the vehicle slowly
for about 10 minutes. Keep a safe
vehicle distance from the vehicle in
front. If the warning does not come
back on, continue to drive normally.
If the warning continues, pull over,
stop, and park the vehicle
right away.
If there is no sign of steam, idle the
engine for three minutes while
parked. If the warning is still
displayed, turn off the engine until it
cools down.

Washer Fluid
What to Use
When the vehicle needs windshield
washer fluid, be sure to read the
manufacturer's instructions before
use. If operating the vehicle in an
area where the temperature may
fall below freezing, use a fluid that
has sufficient protection against
freezing.

Adding Washer Fluid

Open the cap with the washer
symbol on it. Add washer fluid
until the tank is full. See Engine
Compartment Overview on
page 10‑6 for reservoir location.

Notice
.

When using concentrated
washer fluid, follow the
manufacturer's instructions
for adding water.

Do not mix water with
ready-to-use washer fluid.
Water can cause the solution
to freeze and damage the
washer fluid tank and other
parts of the washer system.

Fill the washer fluid tank only
three-quarters full when it is
very cold. This allows for
fluid expansion if freezing
occurs, which could
damage the tank if it is
completely full.

Do not use engine coolant
(antifreeze) in the windshield
washer. It can damage the
windshield washer system
and paint.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (21,1)

Vehicle Care

Brakes
This vehicle has front disc brakes
and could have rear drum brakes or
rear disc brakes.

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

Disc brake pads have built-in wear
indicators that make a high-pitched
warning sound when the brake pads
are worn and new pads are needed.
The sound can come and go or be
heard all the time the vehicle is
moving, except when applying the
brake pedal firmly.

Properly torqued wheel nuts are
necessary to help prevent brake
pulsation. When tires are rotated,
inspect brake pads for wear and
evenly tighten wheel nuts in the
proper sequence to torque
specifications in Capacities and
Specifications on page 12‑2.

{ WARNING
The brake wear warning sound
means that soon the brakes will
not work well. That could lead to
a crash. When the brake wear
warning sound is heard, have the
vehicle serviced.
Notice: Continuing to drive with
worn-out brake pads could result
in costly brake repair.

If the vehicle has rear drum brakes,
they do not have wear indicators,
but if a rear brake rubbing noise is
heard, have the rear brake linings
inspected immediately. Rear brake
drums should be removed and
inspected each time the tires are
removed for rotation or changing.
Drum brakes have an inspection
hole to inspect lining wear during
scheduled maintenance. When the
front brake pads are replaced, have
the rear brakes inspected, too.

10-21

Brake linings should always be
replaced as complete axle sets.

Brake Pedal Travel
See your dealer if the brake pedal
does not return to normal height,
or if there is a rapid increase in
pedal travel. This could be a sign
that brake service might be
required.

Brake Adjustment
Every moderate brake stop, the disc
brakes adjust for wear. If rarely
making moderate or heavier brake
stops, the brakes might not adjust
correctly. Very carefully making a
few moderate brake stops about
every 1 600 km (1,000 miles) will
adjust the brakes properly.
If the vehicle has rear drum brakes
and the brake pedal goes down
farther than normal, the rear drum
brakes might need adjustment.
Adjust them by backing up and
firmly applying the brakes a few
times.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-22

Black plate (22,1)

Vehicle Care

Replacing Brake System Parts
The braking system on a vehicle is
complex. Its many parts have to be
of top quality and work well together
if the vehicle is to have really good
braking. The vehicle was designed
and tested with top-quality brake
parts. When parts of the braking
system are replaced, be sure to get
new, approved replacement parts.
If this is not done, the brakes might
not work properly. For example,
installing disc brake pads that are
wrong for the vehicle, can change
the balance between the front and
rear brakes— for the worse. The
braking performance expected can
change in many other ways if the
wrong replacement brake parts are
installed.

Brake Fluid

The brake/clutch master cylinder
reservoir is filled with DOT 3 brake
fluid as indicated on the reservoir
cap. See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 10‑6 for the
location of the reservoir.
There are only two reasons why the
fluid level in the reservoir might
go down:
.

The fluid level goes down
because of normal brake lining
wear. When new linings are
installed, the fluid level goes
back up.

A fluid leak in the brake/clutch
hydraulic system can also cause
a low fluid level. Have the brake/
clutch hydraulic system fixed,

since a leak means that sooner
or later the brakes and/or clutch
will not work well.
Do not top off the brake/clutch fluid.
Adding fluid does not correct a leak.
If fluid is added when the linings are
worn, there will be too much fluid
when new brake linings are
installed. Add or remove brake fluid,
as necessary, only when work is
done on the brake/clutch hydraulic
system.

{ WARNING
If too much brake fluid is added, it
can spill on the engine and burn,
if the engine is hot enough. You
or others could be burned, and
the vehicle could be damaged.
Add brake fluid only when work is
done on the brake/clutch
hydraulic system.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (23,1)

Vehicle Care
When the brake/clutch fluid falls to a
low level, the brake warning light
comes on. See Brake System
Warning Light on page 5‑16.

Notice
.

What to Add
Use only new DOT 3 brake fluid
from a sealed container. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑12.
Always clean the brake/clutch fluid
reservoir cap and the area around
the cap before removing it. This
helps keep dirt from entering the
reservoir.

{ WARNING
With the wrong kind of fluid in the
brake/clutch hydraulic system, the
brakes might not work well. This
could cause a crash. Always use
the proper brake/clutch fluid.

Using the wrong fluid can
badly damage brake/clutch
hydraulic system parts. For
example, just a few drops of
mineral-based oil, such as
engine oil, in the brake
hydraulic system can
damage brake hydraulic
system parts so badly that
they will have to be replaced.
Do not let someone put in
the wrong kind of fluid.
If brake fluid is spilled on the
vehicle's painted surfaces,
the paint finish can be
damaged. Be careful not to
spill brake fluid on the
vehicle. If you do, wash it off
immediately.

10-23

{ WARNING
Battery posts, terminals, and
related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds, chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

Vehicle Storage

{ WARNING
Batteries have acid that can burn
you and gas that can explode.
You can be badly hurt if you are
not careful. See Jump Starting on
page 10‑74 for tips on working
around a battery without
getting hurt.

Battery
Refer to the replacement number
shown on the original battery label
when a new battery is needed. See
Engine Compartment Overview on
page 10‑6 for battery location.

Infrequent Usage: Remove the
black, negative (−) cable from the
battery to keep the battery from
running down.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-24

Black plate (24,1)

Vehicle Care

Extended Storage: Remove the
black, negative (−) cable from the
battery or use a battery trickle
charger.

Starter Switch Check

{ WARNING
When you are doing this
inspection, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be
injured.
1. Before starting this check, be
sure there is enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking
brake and the regular brake.
See Parking Brake on
page 9‑29.
Do not use the accelerator
pedal, and be ready to turn off
the engine immediately if it
starts.

3. For automatic transmission
vehicles, try to start the engine
in each gear. The vehicle should
start only in P (Park) or
N (Neutral). If the vehicle starts
in any other position, contact
your dealer for service.
For manual transmission
vehicles, put the shift lever in
Neutral, push the clutch pedal
down halfway, and try to start
the engine. The vehicle should
start only when the clutch pedal
is pushed down all the way to
the floor. If the vehicle starts
when the clutch pedal is not
pushed all the way down,
contact your dealer for service.

Automatic Transmission
Shift Lock Control
Function Check

{ WARNING
When you are doing this
inspection, the vehicle could
move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be
injured.
1. Before starting this check, be
sure there is enough room
around the vehicle. It should be
parked on a level surface.
2. Firmly apply the parking brake.
See Parking Brake on
page 9‑29.
Be ready to apply the regular
brake immediately if the vehicle
begins to move.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (25,1)

Vehicle Care
3. With the engine off, turn the
ignition on, but do not start the
engine. Without applying the
regular brake, try to move the
shift lever out of P (Park) with
normal effort. If the shift lever
moves out of P (Park), contact
your dealer for service.

Ignition Transmission
Lock Check
While parked, and with the parking
brake set, try to turn the ignition to
LOCK/OFF in each shift lever
position.
.

For automatic transmission
vehicles, the ignition should turn
to LOCK/OFF only when the
shift lever is in P (Park).
For manual transmission
vehicles, the ignition should turn
to LOCK/OFF only when the
shift lever is in neutral.

On all vehicles, the ignition key
should come out only in LOCK/OFF.
Contact your dealer if service is
required.

Park on a fairly steep hill, with the
vehicle facing downhill. Keeping
your foot on the regular brake, set
the parking brake.
.

To check the parking brake's
holding ability: With the engine
running and the transmission in
N (Neutral), slowly remove foot
pressure from the regular brake
pedal. Do this until the vehicle is
held by the parking brake only.

To check the P (Park)
mechanism's holding ability:
With the engine running, shift
to P (Park). Then release the
parking brake followed by the
regular brake.

Park Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check

{ WARNING
When you are doing this check,
the vehicle could begin to move.
You or others could be injured
and property could be damaged.
Make sure there is room in front
of the vehicle in case it begins to
roll. Be ready to apply the regular
brake at once should the vehicle
begin to move.

10-25

Contact your dealer if service is
required.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-26

Black plate (26,1)

Vehicle Care

Wiper Blade Replacement
Front Wiper Blade
Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be
inspected for wear or cracking. See
the Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3 for more information.
Replacement blades come in
different types and are removed
in different ways. For proper
windshield wiper blade length
and type, see Maintenance
Replacement Parts on page 11‑14.
Notice: Allowing the wiper arm to
touch the windshield when no
wiper blade is installed could
damage the windshield. Any
damage that occurs would not be
covered by your warranty. Do not
allow the wiper arm to touch the
windshield.

To replace the windshield wiper
blade:
1. Pull the windshield wiper
assembly away from the
windshield.
3. Install the new blade onto the
arm and make sure the tabs are
fully set in the locked position.
4. Repeat the steps for the other
wiper.
2. Squeeze the tabs on each side
of the wiper blade assembly and
slide the assembly off the end of
the wiper arm.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (27,1)

Vehicle Care
Rear Wiper Blade Replacement

10-27

Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp aim has been preset at
the factory and should need no
further adjustment.
However, if the vehicle is damaged
in a crash, the headlamp aim may
be affected. Aim adjustment to the
low-beam headlamps may be
necessary if oncoming drivers flash
their high-beam headlamps at you
(for vertical aim).

1. Pull the wiper arm a short
distance away from the
glass (A).
2. Pull the blade out from
the arm (B).
It may require extra effort to
remove the old blade.

3. Once the blade pin disengages
from the wiper arm, remove the
wiper blade by sliding the pin out
of the guide hole.
4. Reverse the steps to install the
new blade.

If the headlamps need to be
re-aimed, it is recommended that
the vehicle be taken to a dealer for
service.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-28

Black plate (28,1)

Vehicle Care

Bulb Replacement
For the proper type of replacement
bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on
page 10‑32.

Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal and Parking
Lamps

1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10‑4.
2. For the driver side bulb only,
remove the windshield washer
bottle filler neck by turning it
one-quarter turn
counterclockwise and pulling it
straight up and out of the bottle.

For any bulb‐changing procedure
not listed in this section, contact
your dealer.

Halogen Bulbs

{ WARNING
Halogen bulbs have pressurized
gas inside and can burst if you
drop or scratch the bulb. You or
others could be injured. Be sure
to read and follow the instructions
on the bulb package.

High-Beam Headlamp/
Low-Beam Headlamp

Passenger Side Shown, Driver
Side Similar
A. High-Beam Headlamp
B. Low-Beam Headlamp
C. Parking/Turn Signal Lamps

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (29,1)

Vehicle Care
5. Disconnect the wiring harness
connector from the bulb.
6. Install the new bulb in the
headlamp assembly by turning
clockwise.

10-29

Parking/Turn Signal Lamp
1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10‑4.

7. Reconnect the wiring harness
connector.
8. Install the headlamp bulb access
cover.

3. Remove the headlamp bulb
access cover.
4. Turn the bulb counterclockwise
and pull straight back.

9. For the driver side bulb,
replace the windshield washer
bottle filler neck by turning it
one-quarter turn clockwise into
the bottle.
2. Remove the parking/turn signal
lamp bulb socket from the
headlamp assembly by turning
counterclockwise.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-30

Black plate (30,1)

Vehicle Care

3. Remove the bulb from the bulb
socket by pulling it straight out.
4. Install the new bulb in the bulb
socket.

Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and Back-Up
Lamps

5. Install the bulb socket into the
headlamp assembly by turning
clockwise.

2. Remove the two screws that
secure the taillamp assembly.

Sedan Taillamp Shown, Hatchback
Taillamp Similar
A. Back-Up Lamp
B. Turn Signal Lamp
C. Stop Lamp/Taillamp
D. Sidemarker Lamp
1. Open the trunk.

3. Remove the taillamp assembly
by pulling it straight back until
the two posts disengage from
the grommets.
4. Remove the bulb socket from
the taillamp assembly by turning
it counterclockwise.
5. Remove the bulb by pulling it
straight out.
6. Install a new bulb into the bulb
socket.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (31,1)

Vehicle Care

10-31

7. Install the bulb socket into the
taillamp assembly by turning it
clockwise.

3. Turn the bulb socket (A)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the lamp assembly (C).

8. Install the taillamp assembly and
tighten the two screws.

4. Pull the bulb (B) straight out of
the bulb socket (A).

License Plate Lamp
Bulb Assembly
A. Bulb Socket
B. Bulb
C. Lamp Assembly
To replace one of these bulbs:
1. Push the left end of the lamp
assembly toward the right.

Lamp Assembly

2. Turn the lamp assembly down to
remove it from the fascia.

5. Push the replacement bulb
straight into the bulb socket and
turn the bulb socket clockwise to
install it into the lamp assembly.
6. Turn the lamp assembly into the
fascia engaging the clip side
first.
7. Push on the lamp side opposite
the clip until the lamp assembly
snaps into place.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-32

Black plate (32,1)

Vehicle Care

Replacement Bulbs
Exterior Lamp
Back-Up Lamp

Electrical System

Bulb
Number
921

Front Parking/Turn
Signal Lamp

7444NA

High‐Beam
Headlamp

9005LL

License Plate Lamp

W5W LL

Low‐Beam
Headlamp
Rear
Sidemarker Lamp
Rear Turn
Signal Lamp
Stop Lamp/Taillamp

H11
194LL

Electrical System
Overload
The vehicle has fuses and circuit
breakers to protect against an
electrical system overload.
When the current electrical load is
too heavy, the circuit breaker opens
and closes, protecting the circuit
until the current load returns to
normal or the problem is fixed.
This greatly reduces the chance of
circuit overload and fire caused by
electrical problems.

4157NAK

Fuses and circuit breakers protect
power devices in the vehicle.

7444LL

Replace a bad fuse with a new one
of the identical size and rating.

For replacement bulbs not listed
here, contact your dealer.

If there is a problem on the road
and a fuse needs to be replaced,
the same amperage fuse can be
borrowed. Choose some feature of
the vehicle that is not needed to use
and replace it as soon as possible.

Headlamp Wiring
An electrical overload may cause
the lamps to go on and off, or in
some cases to remain off. Have
the headlamp wiring checked right
away if the lamps go on and off or
remain off.

Windshield Wipers
If the wiper motor overheats due to
heavy snow or ice, the windshield
wipers will stop until the motor cools
and will then restart.
Although the circuit is protected
from electrical overload, overload
due to heavy snow or ice may
cause wiper linkage damage.
Always clear ice and heavy snow
from the windshield before using the
windshield wipers.
If the overload is caused by an
electrical problem and not snow or
ice, be sure to get it fixed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (33,1)

Vehicle Care

Fuses and Circuit
Breakers

Engine Compartment
Fuse Block

The wiring circuits in the vehicle are
protected from short circuits by a
combination of fuses, circuit
breakers, and fusible thermal links.
This greatly reduces the chance of
fires caused by electrical problems.

Notice: Spilling liquid on any
electrical component on the
vehicle may damage it. Always
keep the covers on any electrical
component.
To access the fuses, press the clips
together, and lift the cover. To
reinstall the cover, push the cover
until it is secure.

Look at the silver-colored band
inside the fuse. If the band is broken
or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure
you replace a bad fuse with a new
one of the identical size and rating.
Fuses of the same amperage can
be temporarily borrowed from
another fuse location, if a fuse goes
out. Replace the fuse as soon as
you can.

10-33

The engine compartment fuse block
is located on the driver side of the
vehicle, near the battery.

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10-34

Black plate (34,1)

Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses

The vehicle may not be equipped
with all of the fuses, relays, and
features shown.

Usage

Mini Fuses

Usage

Antilock Brake
System Valve

Fuel System
Control Module 1

Sunroof

Flex Fuel

Not Used

Washer

Rear Wiper

Fuel Pump (1.8L)

Regulated Voltage
Control

Antilock Brake
System Fluid

Engine Control
Module/
Transmission
Control Module

Automatic
Occupant
Sensing/ROS

Fuel System
Control Module 2

Not Used

Outside Rearview
Mirror

Engine Control
Module 1

Not Used

Coil

Rear Window
Defogger

Engine Control
Module 4

Not Used

Engine Control
Module 3

Heated Outside
Rearview Mirror

Heated Front Seat

Engine Control
Module 2

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (35,1)

Vehicle Care
Mini Fuses
26

Usage
Injector

Engine Control
Module

Air Conditioning
Compressor Clutch

Transmission
Control Module

Horn

Front Fog Lamps

Left High Beam

Right High Beam

SPARE
J-Case
Fuses

J-Case
Fuses
5

Not Used

Cooling Fan K5

Cooling Fan K4

EVP

Start

Front Wiper

Blower

Run/Crank IEC

Usage

RLY 8

Cooling Fan
K3 Relay (1.8L),
Cooling Fan K3
High Current
Relay (1.4L)

RLY 9

Powertrain Relay

RLY 10

Start High Current
Relay

Usage

RLY 1

Front Wiper
Control Relay

RLY 11

Air Conditioning
Compressor Clutch
Relay

RLY 2

Front Wiper Speed
Relay

RLY 12

High-Beam Relay

RLY 13

RLY 3

Rear Window
Defogger Relay

Cooling Fan K1
Relay

RLY 4

Run/Crank Relay

RLY 5

Not Used

RLY 6

Fuel Pump
Relay (1.8L)

RLY 7

Cooling Fan K2
Relay (1.4L)

Usage

Relays

Spare

Antilock Brake
System Pump

Usage

10-35

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10-36

Black plate (36,1)

Vehicle Care

Instrument Panel Fuse
Block

Number

The instrument panel fuse block is
located on the underside of the
driver side instrument panel.
Notice: Spilling liquid on any
electrical component on the
vehicle may damage it. Always
keep the covers on any electrical
component.
The vehicle may not be equipped
with all of the fuses, relays, and
features shown.

Usage

DLIS

Data Link
Connector

Airbag

Liftgate

Spare

Body Control
Module

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Vehicle Care
Number

Usage

Body Control
Module

Instrument Panel
Cluster

OnStar

Ultrasonic Rear
Park Assist

Driver Information
Center

Audio

Trailer

VLBS

CHEVYSTAR

Heating,
Ventilation, Air
Conditioning

Number

Usage

Number

10-37

Usage

HDLP ALC

Cigarette Lighter

Clutch

Spare

Instrument Panel
Cluster/Automatic
Occupant Sensing

Rear Power
Windows

Airbag Run/Crank

Front Power
Windows

Run Relay

RAP/ACCY

Liftgate Release

DC/DC Converter

Trailer Run/Crank

Clock Spring

Driver Power
Window

PTC2

Heating,
Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning

PTC1

Battery Connector

Spare

Sunroof

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-38

Black plate (38,1)

Vehicle Care

Wheels and Tires
Tires

WARNING (Continued)
.

Every new GM vehicle has
high-quality tires made by a
leading tire manufacturer.
See the warranty manual for
information regarding the tire
warranty and where to get
service. For additional
information refer to the tire
manufacturer.

{ WARNING
.

Poorly maintained and
improperly used tires are
dangerous.
Overloading the tires can
cause overheating as a result
of too much flexing. There
could be a blowout and a
serious crash. See Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.
(Continued)

Underinflated tires pose the
same danger as overloaded
tires. The resulting crash
could cause serious injury.
Check all tires frequently to
maintain the recommended
pressure. Tire pressure
should be checked when the
tires are cold.
Overinflated tires are more
likely to be cut, punctured,
or broken by a sudden
impact— such as when
hitting a pothole. Keep tires at
the recommended pressure.

Worn or old tires can cause a
crash. If the tread is badly
worn, replace them.

Replace any tires that have
been damaged by impacts
with potholes, curbs, etc.
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
.

Improperly repaired tires can
cause a crash. Only the
dealer or an authorized tire
service center should repair,
replace, dismount, and mount
the tires.

Do not spin the tires in
excess of 56 km/h (35 mph)
on slippery surfaces such
as snow, mud, ice, etc.
Excessive spinning may
cause the tires to explode.

Tire Sidewall Labeling
Useful information about a
tire is molded into its sidewall.
The examples show a typical
passenger vehicle tire and a
compact spare tire sidewall.

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Black plate (39,1)

Vehicle Care
(B) TPC Spec (Tire
Performance Criteria
Specification): Original
equipment tires designed to
GM's specific tire performance
criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall.
GM's TPC specifications meet
or exceed all federal safety
guidelines.
Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire Example

(A) Tire Size: The tire size is
a combination of letters and
numbers used to define a
particular tire's width, height,
aspect ratio, construction type,
and service description. See the
“Tire Size” illustration later in this
section for more detail.

(C) DOT (Department of
Transportation): The
Department of Transportation
(DOT) code indicates that
the tire is in compliance
with the U.S. Department of
Transportation Motor Vehicle
Safety Standards.
(D) Tire Identification Number
(TIN): The letters and numbers
following the DOT (Department
of Transportation) code are
the Tire Identification Number
(TIN). The TIN shows the
manufacturer and plant code,

10-39

tire size, and date the tire was
manufactured. The TIN is
molded onto both sides of the
tire, although only one side may
have the date of manufacture.
(E) Tire Ply Material : The type
of cord and number of plies in
the sidewall and under the tread.
(F) Uniform Tire Quality
Grading (UTQG): Tire
manufacturers are required to
grade tires based on three
performance factors: treadwear,
traction, and temperature
resistance. For more information
see Uniform Tire Quality
Grading on page 10‑54.
(G) Maximum Cold Inflation
Load Limit: Maximum load
that can be carried and the
maximum pressure needed to
support that load.

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10-40

Black plate (40,1)

Vehicle Care
has a compact spare tire,
see Compact Spare Tire on
page 10‑73 and If a Tire Goes
Flat on page 10‑57.

Compact Spare Tire Example

(A) Tire Ply Material: The type
of cord and number of plies in
the sidewall and under the tread.
(B) Temporary Use Only: The
compact spare tire or temporary
use tire has a tread life of
approximately 5 000 km
(3,000 mi) and should not be
driven at speeds over 105 km/h
(65 mph). The compact spare
tire is for emergency use when
a regular road tire has lost air
and gone flat. If the vehicle

(C) Tire Identification Number
(TIN): The letters and numbers
following the DOT (Department
of Transportation) code are
the Tire Identification Number
(TIN). The TIN shows the
manufacturer and plant code,
tire size, and date the tire was
manufactured. The TIN is
molded onto both sides of the
tire, although only one side may
have the date of manufacture.
(D) Maximum Cold Inflation
Load Limit: Maximum load
that can be carried and the
maximum pressure needed to
support that load.
(E) Tire Inflation: The
temporary use tire or compact
spare tire should be inflated to
420 kPa (60 psi). For more

information on tire pressure and
inflation see Tire Pressure on
page 10‑44.
(F) Tire Size: A combination of
letters and numbers define a
tire's width, height, aspect ratio,
construction type, and service
description. The letter T as the
first character in the tire size
means the tire is for temporary
use only.
(G) TPC Spec (Tire
Performance Criteria
Specification): Original
equipment tires designed to
GM's specific tire performance
criteria have a TPC specification
code molded onto the sidewall.
GM's TPC specifications meet
or exceed all federal safety
guidelines.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (41,1)

Vehicle Care

Tire Designations
Tire Size
The following is an example of a
typical passenger vehicle
tire size.

(A) Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire:
The United States version of a
metric tire sizing system. The
letter P as the first character in
the tire size means a passenger
vehicle tire engineered to
standards set by the U.S. Tire
and Rim Association.
(B) Tire Width: The three‐digit
number indicates the tire section
width in millimeters from
sidewall to sidewall.

(C) Aspect Ratio: A two‐digit
number that indicates the tire
height‐to‐width measurements.
For example, if the tire size
aspect ratio is 60, as shown in
item C of the illustration, it would
mean that the tire's sidewall is
60 percent as high as it is wide.
(D) Construction Code: A
letter code is used to indicate
the type of ply construction in
the tire. The letter R means
radial ply construction; the
letter D means diagonal or
bias ply construction; and the
letter B means belted‐bias ply
construction.
(E) Rim Diameter : Diameter of
the wheel in inches.
(F) Service Description: These
characters represent the load
index and speed rating of the
tire. The load index represents
the load carrying capacity a tire

10-41

is certified to carry. The speed
rating is the maximum speed a
tire is certified to carry a load.

Tire Terminology and
Definitions
Air Pressure: The amount of
air inside the tire pressing
outward on each square inch
of the tire. Air pressure is
expressed in kPa (kilopascal)
or psi (pounds per square inch).
Accessory Weight: The
combined weight of optional
accessories. Some examples
of optional accessories are
automatic transmission, power
steering, power brakes, power
windows, power seats, and air
conditioning.
Aspect Ratio: The relationship
of a tire's height to its width.

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10-42

Black plate (42,1)

Vehicle Care

Belt: A rubber coated layer of
cords that is located between
the plies and the tread. Cords
may be made from steel or other
reinforcing materials.
Bead: The tire bead contains
steel wires wrapped by steel
cords that hold the tire onto
the rim.
Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire
in which the plies are laid at
alternate angles less than
90 degrees to the centerline of
the tread.
Cold Tire Pressure: The
amount of air pressure in a tire,
measured in kPa (kilopascal)
or psi (pounds per square inch)
before a tire has built up heat
from driving. See Tire Pressure
on page 10‑44.

Curb Weight: The weight of a
motor vehicle with standard and
optional equipment including the
maximum capacity of fuel, oil,
and coolant, but without
passengers and cargo.
DOT Markings: A code molded
into the sidewall of a tire
signifying that the tire is in
compliance with the U.S.
Department of Transportation
(DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety
Standards. The DOT code
includes the Tire Identification
Number (TIN), an alphanumeric
designator which can also
identify the tire manufacturer,
production plant, brand, and
date of production.
GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑10.

GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight
Rating for the front axle. See
Vehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight
Rating for the rear axle. See
Vehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.
Intended Outboard Sidewall :
The side of an asymmetrical tire,
that must always face outward
when mounted on a vehicle.
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric
unit for air pressure.
Light Truck (LT‐Metric) Tire: A
tire used on light duty trucks and
some multipurpose passenger
vehicles.
Load Index: An assigned
number ranging from 1 to 279
that corresponds to the load
carrying capacity of a tire.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (43,1)

Vehicle Care
Maximum Inflation Pressure:
The maximum air pressure to
which a cold tire can be inflated.
The maximum air pressure is
molded onto the sidewall.
Maximum Load Rating: The
load rating for a tire at the
maximum permissible inflation
pressure for that tire.
Maximum Loaded Vehicle
Weight: The sum of curb
weight, accessory weight,
vehicle capacity weight, and
production options weight.
Normal Occupant Weight: The
number of occupants a vehicle
is designed to seat multiplied by
68 kg (150 lbs). See Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.
Occupant Distribution :
Designated seating positions.

Outward Facing Sidewall: The
side of an asymmetrical tire that
has a particular side that faces
outward when mounted on a
vehicle. The side of the tire
that contains a whitewall,
bears white lettering, or bears
manufacturer, brand, and/or
model name molding that is
higher or deeper than the same
moldings on the other sidewall
of the tire.
Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A
tire used on passenger cars
and some light duty trucks and
multipurpose vehicles.
Recommended Inflation
Pressure: Vehicle
manufacturer's recommended
tire inflation pressure as shown
on the tire placard. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑44 and
Vehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.

10-43

Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic
tire in which the ply cords that
extend to the beads are laid at
90 degrees to the centerline of
the tread.
Rim: A metal support for a tire
and upon which the tire beads
are seated.
Sidewall: The portion of a tire
between the tread and the bead.
Speed Rating: An
alphanumeric code assigned to
a tire indicating the maximum
speed at which a tire can
operate.
Traction: The friction between
the tire and the road surface.
The amount of grip provided.
Tread: The portion of a tire
that comes into contact with
the road.

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10-44

Black plate (44,1)

Vehicle Care

Treadwear Indicators: Narrow
bands, sometimes called wear
bars, that show across the tread
of a tire when only 1.6 mm
(1/16 in) of tread remains. See
When It Is Time for New Tires
on page 10‑51.
UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality
Grading Standards): A tire
information system that provides
consumers with ratings for
a tire's traction, temperature,
and treadwear. Ratings
are determined by tire
manufacturers using
government testing procedures.
The ratings are molded into
the sidewall of the tire. See
Uniform Tire Quality Grading on
page 10‑54.

Vehicle Capacity Weight:
The number of designated
seating positions multiplied by
68 kg (150 lbs) plus the rated
cargo load. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10.
Vehicle Maximum Load on the
Tire: Load on an individual tire
due to curb weight, accessory
weight, occupant weight, and
cargo weight.
Vehicle Placard: A label
permanently attached to a
vehicle showing the vehicle
capacity weight and the
original equipment tire size
and recommended inflation
pressure. See “Tire and Loading
Information Label” under Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.

Tire Pressure
Tires need the correct amount
of air pressure to operate
effectively.
Notice: Neither tire
underinflation nor
overinflation is good.
Underinflated tires, or tires
that do not have enough air,
can result in:
.

Tire overloading and
overheating which could
lead to a blowout.

Premature or
irregular wear.

Poor handling.

Reduced fuel economy.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (45,1)

Vehicle Care
Overinflated tires, or tires
that have too much air, can
result in:
.

Unusual wear.

Poor handling.

Rough ride.

Needless damage from
road hazards.

The Tire and Loading
Information label on the
vehicle indicates the original
equipment tires and the correct
cold tire inflation pressures. The
recommended pressure is the
minimum air pressure needed to
support the vehicle's maximum
load carrying capacity.
For additional information
regarding how much weight
the vehicle can carry, and an
example of the Tire and Loading
Information label, see Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑10.

How the vehicle is loaded
affects vehicle handling and ride
comfort. Never load the vehicle
with more weight than it was
designed to carry.
When to Check
Check the tires once a month or
more. Do not forget the compact
spare tire, if the vehicle has one.
The cold compact spare should
be at 420 kPa (60 psi). See
Compact Spare Tire on
page 10‑73.
How to Check
Use a good quality pocket-type
gauge to check tire pressure.
Proper tire inflation cannot be
determined by looking at the tire.
Check the tire inflation pressure
when the tires are cold, meaning
the vehicle has not been driven
for at least three hours or no
more than 1.6 km (1 mi).

10-45

Remove the valve cap from the
tire valve stem. Press the tire
gauge firmly onto the valve to
get a pressure measurement.
If the cold tire inflation pressure
matches the recommended
pressure on the Tire and
Loading Information label, no
further adjustment is necessary.
If the inflation pressure is low,
add air until the recommended
pressure is reached. If the
inflation pressure is high, press
on the metal stem in the center
of the tire valve to release air.
Recheck the tire pressure with
the tire gauge.
Return the valve caps on the
valve stems to prevent leaks
and keep out dirt and moisture.

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10-46

Black plate (46,1)

Vehicle Care

Tire Pressure Monitor
System

pressure telltale when one or
more of your tires is significantly
under‐inflated.

The Tire Pressure Monitor System
(TPMS) uses radio and sensor
technology to check tire pressure
levels. The TPMS sensors monitor
the air pressure in your tires and
transmit tire pressure readings to a
receiver located in the vehicle.

Accordingly, when the low tire
pressure telltale illuminates, you
should stop and check your tires as
soon as possible, and inflate them
to the proper pressure. Driving on
a significantly under‐inflated tire
causes the tire to overheat and can
lead to tire failure. Under‐inflation
also reduces fuel efficiency and tire
tread life, and may affect the
vehicle's handling and stopping
ability.

Each tire, including the spare (if
provided), should be checked
monthly when cold and inflated to
the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the
vehicle placard or tire inflation
pressure label. (If your vehicle has
tires of a different size than the size
indicated on the vehicle placard or
tire inflation pressure label, you
should determine the proper tire
inflation pressure for those tires.)
As an added safety feature, your
vehicle has been equipped with a
tire pressure monitoring system
(TPMS) that illuminates a low tire

Please note that the TPMS is
not a substitute for proper tire
maintenance, and it is the driver's
responsibility to maintain correct tire
pressure, even if under‐inflation has
not reached the level to trigger
illumination of the TPMS low tire
pressure telltale.
Your vehicle has also been
equipped with a TPMS malfunction
indicator to indicate when the
system is not operating properly.

The TPMS malfunction indicator is
combined with the low tire pressure
telltale. When the system detects a
malfunction, the telltale will flash for
approximately one minute and then
remain continuously illuminated.
This sequence will continue upon
subsequent vehicle start‐ups as
long as the malfunction exists.
When the malfunction indicator is
illuminated, the system may not be
able to detect or signal low tire
pressure as intended. TPMS
malfunctions may occur for a variety
of reasons, including the installation
of replacement or alternate tires or
wheels on the vehicle that prevent
the TPMS from functioning properly.
Always check the TPMS malfunction
telltale after replacing one or more
tires or wheels on your vehicle to
ensure that the replacement or
alternate tires and wheels allow
the TPMS to continue to function
properly.
See Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation on page 10‑47 for
additional information.

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Black plate (47,1)

Vehicle Care
Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and
with Industry Canada
Standards
See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑16 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
Rules and with Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.

Tire Pressure Monitor
Operation
This vehicle may have a Tire
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
The TPMS is designed to warn the
driver when a low tire pressure
condition exists. TPMS sensors are
mounted onto each tire and wheel
assembly, excluding the spare tire
and wheel assembly. The TPMS
sensors monitor the air pressure
in the tires and transmit the tire
pressure readings to a receiver
located in the vehicle.

When a low tire pressure condition
is detected, the TPMS illuminates
the low tire pressure warning light
located on the instrument cluster.
If the warning light comes on, stop
as soon as possible and inflate the
tires to the recommended pressure
shown on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10.
The low tire pressure warning light
comes on at each ignition cycle until
the tires are inflated to the correct
inflation pressure.

10-47

The low tire pressure warning light
may come on in cool weather when
the vehicle is first started, and then
turn off as the vehicle is driven. This
could be an early indicator that the
air pressure is getting low and must
be inflated to the proper pressure.
A Tire and Loading Information
label shows the size of the original
equipment tires and the correct
inflation pressure for the tires when
they are cold. See Vehicle Load
Limits on page 9‑10, for an example
of the Tire and Loading Information
label and its location. Also see Tire
Pressure on page 10‑44.

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10-48

Black plate (48,1)

Vehicle Care

The TPMS can warn about a
low tire pressure condition but it
does not replace normal tire
maintenance. See Tire Inspection
on page 10‑50, Tire Rotation on
page 10‑50 and Tires on
page 10‑38.
Notice: Tire sealant materials are
not all the same. A non-approved
tire sealant could damage the
TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor
damage caused by using an
incorrect tire sealant is not
covered by the vehicle
warranty. Always use only the
GM-approved tire sealant
available through your dealer or
included in the vehicle.
Factory-installed Tire Inflator Kits
use a GM-approved liquid tire
sealant. Using non-approved tire
sealants could damage the TPMS
sensors. See Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit on page 10‑59 for
information regarding the inflator kit
materials and instructions.

TPMS Malfunction Light
The TPMS will not function properly
if one or more of the TPMS sensors
are missing or inoperable. When the
system detects a malfunction, the
low tire warning light flashes for
about one minute and then stays on
for the remainder of the ignition
cycle. The malfunction light comes
on at each ignition cycle until the
problem is corrected. Some of the
conditions that can cause this to
come on are:
.

One of the road tires has been
replaced with the spare tire.
The spare tire does not have a
TPMS sensor. The malfunction
light should go off after the road
tire is replaced and the sensor
matching process is performed
successfully. See "TPMS Sensor
Matching Process" later in this
section.

The TPMS sensor matching
process was not done or
not completed successfully
after rotating the tires. The
malfunction light should go off
after successfully completing
the sensor matching process.
See "TPMS Sensor Matching
Process" later in this section.

One or more TPMS sensors
are missing or damaged. The
malfunction light should go off
when the TPMS sensors are
installed and the sensor
matching process is performed
successfully. See your dealer for
service.

Replacement tires or wheels do
not match the original equipment
tires or wheels. Tires and wheels
other than those recommended
could prevent the TPMS from
functioning properly. See Buying
New Tires on page 10‑52.

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Black plate (49,1)

Vehicle Care
.

Operating electronic devices or
being near facilities using radio
wave frequencies similar to the
TPMS could cause the TPMS
sensors to malfunction.

If the TPMS is not functioning
properly, it cannot detect or signal a
low tire condition. See your dealer
for service if the TPMS malfunction
light comes on and stays on.

TPMS Sensor Matching
Process
Each TPMS sensor has a unique
identification code. The identification
code needs to be matched to a new
tire/wheel position after rotating the
tires or replacing one or more of the
TPMS sensors. The TPMS sensor
matching process should also be
performed after replacing a spare
tire with a road tire containing the
TPMS sensor. The malfunction light
should go off at the next ignition
cycle. The sensors are matched to
the tire/wheel positions, using a
TPMS relearn tool, in the following

order: driver side front tire,
passenger side front tire, passenger
side rear tire, and driver side rear.
See your dealer for service or to
purchase a relearn tool.
There are two minutes to match
the first tire/wheel position, and
five minutes overall to match all
four tire/wheel positions. If it takes
longer, the matching process stops
and must be restarted.
The TPMS sensor matching
process is:
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with
the engine off.
3. Use the MENU button to select
the Vehicle Information menu in
the Driver Information
Center (DIC).
4. Use the thumbwheel to scroll to
the Tire Pressure Learn menu
item screen.

10-49

5. Press and hold the SET/CLR
button to begin the sensor
matching process.
6. The horn sounds twice to signal
the receiver is in relearn mode
and the TIRE LEARN message
displays on the DIC screen.
7. Start with the driver side
front tire.
8. Place the relearn tool against
the tire sidewall, near the valve
stem. Then press the button to
activate the TPMS sensor.
A horn chirp confirms that the
sensor identification code has
been matched to this tire and
wheel position.
9. Proceed to the passenger side
front tire, and repeat the
procedure in Step 8.
10. Proceed to the passenger side
rear tire, and repeat the
procedure in Step 8.

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10-50

Black plate (50,1)

Vehicle Care

11. Proceed to the driver side rear
tire, and repeat the procedure
in Step 8. The horn sounds
two times to indicate the
sensor identification code has
been matched to the driver
side rear tire, and the TPMS
sensor matching process is
no longer active. The TIRE
LEARN message on the DIC
display screen goes off.

Replace the tire if:
.

The indicators at three or
more places around the tire
can be seen.

There is cord or fabric
showing through the tire's
rubber.

12. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
13. Set all four tires to the
recommended air pressure
level as indicated on the Tire
and Loading Information label.

Tire Inspection
We recommend that the tires,
including the spare tire, if the
vehicle has one, be inspected
for signs of wear or damage at
least once a month.

The tread or sidewall is
cracked, cut, or snagged
deep enough to show cord or
fabric.

The tire has a bump, bulge,
or split.

The tire has a puncture, cut,
or other damage that cannot
be repaired well because of
the size or location of the
damage.

Tire Rotation
Tires should be rotated every
12 000 km (7,500 mi). See
Maintenance Schedule on
page 11‑3.
Tires are rotated to achieve a
uniform wear for all tires. The
first rotation is the most
important.
Any time unusual wear is
noticed, rotate the tires as soon
as possible and check the wheel
alignment. Also check for
damaged tires or wheels. See
When It Is Time for New Tires
on page 10‑51 and Wheel
Replacement on page 10‑56.

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Black plate (51,1)

Vehicle Care
Reset the Tire Pressure Monitor
System. See Tire Pressure
Monitor Operation on
page 10‑47.
Check that all wheel nuts are
properly tightened. See “Wheel
Nut Torque” under Capacities
and Specifications on
page 12‑2.
Use this rotation pattern when
rotating the tires.
Do not include the compact
spare tire in the tire rotation.
Adjust the front and rear tires
to the recommended inflation
pressure on the Tire and
Loading Information label after
the tires have been rotated. See
Tire Pressure on page 10‑44
and Vehicle Load Limits on
page 9‑10.

{ WARNING
Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the
parts to which it is fastened, can
make wheel nuts become loose
after time. The wheel could come
off and cause an accident. When
changing a wheel, remove any
rust or dirt from places where the
wheel attaches to the vehicle. In
an emergency, a cloth or a paper
towel can be used; however, use
a scraper or wire brush later to
remove all rust or dirt.

10-51

Lightly coat the center of the
wheel hub with wheel bearing
grease after a wheel change or
tire rotation to prevent corrosion
or rust build-up. Do not get
grease on the flat wheel
mounting surface or on the
wheel nuts or bolts.

When It Is Time for New
Tires
Factors such as maintenance,
temperatures, driving speeds,
vehicle loading, and road conditions
affect the wear rate of the tires.

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10-52

Black plate (52,1)

Vehicle Care
to be replaced due to wear before
they may need to be replaced
due to age. Consult the tire
manufacturer for more information
on when tires should be replaced.

Vehicle Storage

Treadwear indicators are one way to
tell when it is time for new tires.
Treadwear indicators appear when
the tires have only 1.6 mm (1/16 in)
or less of tread remaining. See Tire
Inspection on page 10‑50 and Tire
Rotation on page 10‑50 for more
information.
The rubber in tires ages over time.
This also applies for the spare tire,
if the vehicle has one, even if it is
never used. Multiple conditions
including temperatures, loading
conditions, and inflation pressure
maintenance affect how fast aging
takes place. Tires will typically need

Tires age when stored normally
mounted on a parked vehicle. Park
a vehicle that will be stored for at
least a month in a cool, dry, clean
area away from direct sunlight to
slow aging. This area should be
free of grease, gasoline, or other
substances that can deteriorate
rubber.
Parking for an extended period can
cause flat spots on the tires that
may result in vibrations while
driving. When storing a vehicle for
at least a month, remove the tires or
raise the vehicle to reduce the
weight from the tires.

Buying New Tires
GM has developed and matched
specific tires for the vehicle. The
original equipment tires installed
were designed to meet General
Motors Tire Performance
Criteria Specification (TPC
Spec) system rating. When
replacement tires are needed,
GM strongly recommends
buying tires with the same TPC
Spec rating.
GM's exclusive TPC Spec
system considers over a
dozen critical specifications that
impact the overall performance
of the vehicle, including brake
system performance, ride and
handling, traction control, and
tire pressure monitoring
performance. GM's TPC Spec
number is molded onto the tire's
sidewall near the tire size. If the
tires have an all‐season tread
design, the TPC Spec number

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Black plate (53,1)

Vehicle Care
will be followed by MS for mud
and snow. See Tire Sidewall
Labeling on page 10‑38 for
additional information.
GM recommends replacing
all the tires at the same time.
Uniform tread depth on all
tires will help to maintain the
performance of the vehicle.
Braking and handling
performance may be adversely
affected if all the tires are not
replaced at the same time. See
Tire Inspection on page 10‑50
and Tire Rotation on page 10‑50
for information on proper tire
rotation.

{ WARNING

10-53

{ WARNING

Tires could explode during
improper service. Attempting
to mount or dismount a tire
could cause injury or death.
Only your dealer or authorized
tire service center should
mount or dismount the tires.

Using bias-ply tires on the
vehicle may cause the wheel
rim flanges to develop cracks
after many miles of driving.
A tire and/or wheel could fail
suddenly and cause a crash.
Use only radial-ply tires with
the wheels on the vehicle.

{ WARNING

If the vehicle tires must be
replaced with a tire that does not
have a TPC Spec number, make
sure they are the same size,
load range, speed rating, and
construction (radial) as the
original tires.

Mixing tires of different sizes,
brands, or types may cause
loss of control of the vehicle,
resulting in a crash or other
vehicle damage. Use the
correct size, brand, and type
of tires on all wheels.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-54

Black plate (54,1)

Vehicle Care

Vehicles that have a tire
pressure monitoring system
could give an inaccurate
low‐pressure warning if non‐TPC
Spec rated tires are installed.
See Tire Pressure Monitor
System on page 10‑46.
The Tire and Loading
Information label indicates the
original equipment tires on the
vehicle. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑10 for the label
location and more information
about the Tire and Loading
Information label.

Different Size Tires and
Wheels
If wheels or tires are installed that
are a different size than the original
equipment wheels and tires, vehicle
performance, including its braking,
ride and handling characteristics,
stability, and resistance to rollover

may be affected. If the vehicle has
electronic systems such as antilock
brakes, rollover airbags, traction
control, and electronic stability
control, the performance of these
systems can also be affected.

{ WARNING
If different sized wheels are used,
there may not be an acceptable
level of performance and safety
if tires not recommended for
those wheels are selected. This
increases the chance of a crash
and serious injury. Only use GM
specific wheel and tire systems
developed for the vehicle, and
have them properly installed by a
GM certified technician.
See Buying New Tires on
page 10‑52 and Accessories and
Modifications on page 10‑3.

Uniform Tire Quality
Grading
Quality grades can be found
where applicable on the tire
sidewall between tread shoulder
and maximum section width. For
example:
Treadwear 200 Traction AA
Temperature A
The following information relates
to the system developed by the
United States National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA), which grades tires
by treadwear, traction, and
temperature performance.
This applies only to vehicles
sold in the United States. The
grades are molded on the
sidewalls of most passenger car
tires. The Uniform Tire Quality
Grading (UTQG) system does
not apply to deep tread, winter
tires, compact spare tires, tires

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Black plate (55,1)

Vehicle Care
with nominal rim diameters of
10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm),
or to some limited-production
tires.
While the tires available on
General Motors passenger cars
and light trucks may vary with
respect to these grades, they
must also conform to federal
safety requirements and
additional General Motors Tire
Performance Criteria (TPC)
standards.
All Passenger Car Tires Must
Conform to Federal Safety
Requirements In Addition To
These Grades.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a
comparative rating based on the
wear rate of the tire when tested
under controlled conditions on
a specified government test
course. For example, a tire

graded 150 would wear one
and a half (1½) times as well
on the government course as a
tire graded 100. The relative
performance of tires depends
upon the actual conditions of
their use, however, and may
depart significantly from the
norm due to variations in
driving habits, service practices
and differences in road
characteristics and climate.
Traction – AA, A, B, C
The traction grades, from
highest to lowest, are AA, A, B,
and C. Those grades represent
the tire's ability to stop on wet
pavement as measured under
controlled conditions on
specified government test
surfaces of asphalt and
concrete. A tire marked C may
have poor traction performance.

10-55

Warning: The traction grade
assigned to this tire is based on
straight-ahead braking traction
tests, and does not include
acceleration, cornering,
hydroplaning, or peak traction
characteristics.
Temperature – A, B, C
The temperature grades
are A (the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire's resistance
to the generation of heat and
its ability to dissipate heat
when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor
laboratory test wheel. Sustained
high temperature can cause
the material of the tire to
degenerate and reduce tire
life, and excessive temperature
can lead to sudden tire failure.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-56

Black plate (56,1)

Vehicle Care

The grade C corresponds to a
level of performance which all
passenger car tires must meet
under the Federal Motor Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of
performance on the laboratory
test wheel than the minimum
required by law. Warning: The
temperature grade for this tire is
established for a tire that is
properly inflated and not
overloaded. Excessive speed,
underinflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in
combination, can cause heat
buildup and possible tire failure.

Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance
The tires and wheels were aligned
and balanced at the factory to
provide the longest tire life and best
overall performance. Adjustments to
wheel alignment and tire balancing
will not be necessary on a regular

basis. However, check the
alignment if there is unusual tire
wear or if the vehicle is pulling to
one side or the other. If the vehicle
vibrates when driving on a smooth
road, the tires and wheels might
need to be rebalanced. See your
dealer for proper diagnosis.

Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent,
cracked, or badly rusted or
corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming
loose, the wheel, wheel bolts, and
wheel nuts should be replaced.
If the wheel leaks air, replace it.
Some aluminum wheels can be
repaired. See your dealer if any of
these conditions exist.
Your dealer will know the kind of
wheel that is needed.
Each new wheel should have the
same load-carrying capacity,
diameter, width, offset, and be
mounted the same way as the one it
replaces.

Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel
nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor
System (TPMS) sensors with new
GM original equipment parts.

{ WARNING
Using the wrong replacement
wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel
nuts can be dangerous. It could
affect the braking and handling of
the vehicle. Tires can lose air,
and cause loss of control, causing
a crash. Always use the correct
wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel
nuts for replacement.
Notice: The wrong wheel can
also cause problems with bearing
life, brake cooling, speedometer
or odometer calibration,
headlamp aim, bumper height,
vehicle ground clearance, and tire
or tire chain clearance to the
body and chassis.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (57,1)

Vehicle Care
Used Replacement Wheels

{ WARNING
Replacing a wheel with a used
one is dangerous. How it has
been used or how far it has been
driven may be unknown. It could
fail suddenly and cause a crash.
When replacing wheels, use a
new GM original equipment
wheel.

Tire Chains

{ WARNING
Do not use tire chains. There is
not enough clearance. Tire chains
used on a vehicle without the
proper amount of clearance can
cause damage to the brakes,
suspension, or other vehicle
(Continued)

WARNING (Continued)
parts. The area damaged by the
tire chains could cause loss of
control and a crash.
Use another type of traction
device only if its manufacturer
recommends it for the vehicle's
tire size combination and
road conditions. Follow that
manufacturer's instructions. To
avoid vehicle damage, drive
slow and readjust or remove the
traction device if it contacts the
vehicle. Do not spin the wheels.
If traction devices are used, install
them on the front tires.

10-57

If a Tire Goes Flat
It is unusual for a tire to blow out
while driving, especially if the tires
are maintained properly. See Tires
on page 10‑38. If air goes out of a
tire, it is much more likely to leak
out slowly. But if there is ever a
blowout, here are a few tips about
what to expect and what to do:
If a front tire fails, the flat tire
creates a drag that pulls the vehicle
toward that side. Take your foot off
the accelerator pedal and grip the
steering wheel firmly. Steer to
maintain lane position, and then
gently brake to a stop, well off the
road, if possible.

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10-58

Black plate (58,1)

Vehicle Care

A rear blowout, particularly on a
curve, acts much like a skid and
may require the same correction as
used in a skid. Stop pressing the
accelerator pedal and steer to
straighten the vehicle. It may be
very bumpy and noisy. Gently
brake to a stop, well off the road,
if possible.

{ WARNING
Driving on a flat tire will cause
permanent damage to the tire.
Re-inflating a tire after it has
been driven on while severely
underinflated or flat may cause a
blowout and a serious crash.
Never attempt to re-inflate a tire
that has been driven on while
severely underinflated or flat.
Have your dealer or an authorized
tire service center repair or
replace the flat tire as soon as
possible.

{ WARNING
Lifting a vehicle and getting
under it to do maintenance or
repairs is dangerous without the
appropriate safety equipment and
training. If a jack is provided with
the vehicle, it is designed only for
changing a flat tire. If it is used for
anything else, you or others could
be badly injured or killed if the
vehicle slips off the jack. If a jack
is provided with the vehicle, only
use it for changing a flat tire.
If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place, well off the road,
if possible. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.

{ WARNING
Changing a tire can be
dangerous. The vehicle can slip
off the jack and roll over or fall
causing injury or death. Find a
level place to change the tire. To
help prevent the vehicle from
moving:
1. Set the parking brake firmly.
2. Put an automatic
transmission in P (Park) or a
manual transmission in
1 (First) or R (Reverse).
3. Turn off the engine and do
not restart while the vehicle
is raised.
4. Do not allow passengers to
remain in the vehicle.
5. Place wheel blocks on
both sides of the tire at the
opposite corner of the tire
being changed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (59,1)

Vehicle Care
This vehicle may come with a jack
and spare tire or a tire sealant and
compressor kit. To use the jacking
equipment to change a spare tire
safely, follow the instructions
below. Then see Tire Changing on
page 10‑67. To use the tire sealant
and compressor kit, see Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
page 10‑59.
When the vehicle has a flat tire (B),
use the following example as a
guide to assist you in the placement
of wheel blocks (A).

A. Wheel Block
B. Flat Tire

The following information explains
how to repair or change a tire.

Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit

10-59

{ WARNING
Overinflating a tire could cause
the tire to rupture and you or
others could be injured. Be sure
to read and follow the tire sealant
and compressor kit instructions
and inflate the tire to its
recommended pressure. Do not
exceed the recommended
pressure.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-60

Black plate (60,1)

Vehicle Care

{ WARNING
Storing the tire sealant and
compressor kit or other
equipment in the passenger
compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or
collision, loose equipment could
strike someone. Store the tire
sealant and compressor kit in its
original location.

If the tire has been separated from
the wheel, has damaged sidewalls,
or has a large puncture, the tire is
too severely damaged for the tire
sealant and compressor kit to be
effective. See Roadside Assistance
Program on page 13‑5.

D. Tire Sealant Canister
E. On/Off Button
F.

Slot on Top of Compressor

G. Pressure Deflation Button
H. Pressure Gauge

Read and follow all of the tire
sealant and compressor kit
instructions.
The kit includes:

If this vehicle has a tire sealant
and compressor kit, there may not
be a spare tire or tire changing
equipment, and on some vehicles
there may not be a place to store
a tire.
The tire sealant and compressor
can be used to temporarily seal
punctures up to 6 mm (0.25 in) in
the tread area of the tire. It can
also be used to inflate an
underinflated tire.

Power Plug

Air Only Hose

Tire Sealant
A. Sealant Canister Inlet Valve
B. Sealant/Air Hose
C. Base of Sealant Canister

Read and follow the safe handling
instructions on the label adhered to
the tire sealant canister (D).

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (61,1)

Vehicle Care
Check the tire sealant expiration
date on the tire sealant canister.
The tire sealant canister (D) should
be replaced before its expiration
date. Replacement tire sealant
canisters are available at your local
dealer.
There is only enough sealant to seal
one tire. After usage, the tire sealant
canister must be replaced.

Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit to Temporarily
Seal and Inflate a
Punctured Tire
When using the tire sealant and
compressor kit during cold
temperatures, warm the kit in a
heated environment for five minutes.
This will help to inflate the tire
faster.

10-61

If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.
See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑57 for other important
safety warnings.
Do not remove any objects that
have penetrated the tire.
1. Remove the tire sealant
canister (D) and compressor
from its storage location. See
Storing the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit on page 10‑66.
2. Remove the air only hose (J)
and the power plug (I) from the
bottom of the compressor.
3. Place the compressor on the
ground near the flat tire.

4. Attach the air only hose (J) to
the sealant canister inlet
valve (A) by turning it clockwise
until tight.

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10-62

Black plate (62,1)

Vehicle Care
If the vehicle only has a cigarette
lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug
cord in the door or window.
9. Start the vehicle. The vehicle
must be running while using the
air compressor.
10. Press the on/off button (E) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit on.

5. Slide the base of the tire sealant
canister (C) into the slot on the
top of the compressor (F) to hold
it upright.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.
6. Remove the valve stem cap
from the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.

7. Attach the sealant/air hose (B) to
the tire valve stem by turning it
clockwise until tight.
8. Plug the power plug (I) into the
accessory power outlet in the
vehicle. Unplug all items from
other accessory power outlets.
See Power Outlets on page 5‑5.
If the vehicle has an accessory
power outlet, do not use the
cigarette lighter.

The compressor will inject
sealant and air into the tire.
The pressure gauge (H) will
initially show a high pressure
while the compressor pushes
the sealant into the tire. Once
the sealant is completely
dispersed into the tire, the
pressure will quickly drop and
start to rise again as the tire
inflates with air only.

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Black plate (63,1)

Vehicle Care
11. Inflate the tire to the
recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure
gauge (H). The recommended
inflation pressure can be found
on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑44.
The pressure gauge (H) may
read higher than the actual tire
pressure while the compressor
is on. Turn the compressor off
to get an accurate pressure
reading. The compressor may
be turned on/off until the
correct pressure is reached.
Notice: If the recommended
pressure cannot be reached after
approximately 25 minutes, the
vehicle should not be driven
farther. The tire is too severely
damaged and the tire sealant and
compressor kit cannot inflate the
tire. Remove the power plug from
the accessory power outlet and
unscrew the inflating hose from

10-63

the tire valve. See Roadside
Assistance Program on
page 13‑5.

16. Remove the tire sealant
canister (D) from the slot on
top of the compressor (F).

12. Press the on/off button (E) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit off.

17. Turn the air only hose (J)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the tire sealant canister
inlet valve (A).

The tire is not sealed and
will continue to leak air
until the vehicle is driven
and the sealant is distributed
in the tire. Therefore,
Steps 13 through 21 must
be done immediately after
Step 12.

18. Turn the sealant/air hose (B)
clockwise onto the sealant
canister inlet valve (A) to
prevent sealant leakage.
19. Return the air only hose (J)
and power plug (I) back to their
original storage location.

Be careful while handling the
tire sealant and compressor kit
as it could be warm after
usage.
13. Unplug the power plug (I) from
the accessory power outlet in
the vehicle.
14. Turn the sealant/air hose (B)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the tire valve stem.
15. Replace the tire valve
stem cap.

20. If the flat tire was able to
inflate to the recommended
inflation pressure, remove the
maximum speed label from the
sealant canister and place it in
a highly visible location.

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10-64

Black plate (64,1)

Vehicle Care

Do not exceed the speed on
this label until the damaged tire
is repaired or replaced.
21. Return the equipment to its
original storage location in the
vehicle.
22. Immediately drive the vehicle
8 km (5 mi) to distribute the
sealant in the tire.
23. Stop at a safe location and
check the tire pressure. Refer
to Steps 1 through 10 under
“Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit without
Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not
Punctured).”
If the tire pressure has fallen
more than 68 kPa (10 psi)
below the recommended
inflation pressure, stop driving
the vehicle. The tire is too
severely damaged and the tire
sealant cannot seal the tire.
See Roadside Assistance
Program on page 13‑5.

If the tire pressure has not
dropped more than 68 kPa
(10 psi) from the recommended
inflation pressure, inflate the
tire to the recommended
inflation pressure.

Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit without
Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not
Punctured)
The kit includes:

24. Wipe off any sealant from the
wheel, tire, or vehicle.
25. Dispose of the used tire
sealant canister (D) at a local
dealer or in accordance with
local state codes and practices.
26. Replace it with a new canister
available from your dealer.
27. After temporarily sealing a tire
using the tire sealant and
compressor kit, take the
vehicle to an authorized dealer
within 161 km (100 mi) of
driving to have the tire repaired
or replaced.

A. Sealant Canister Inlet Valve
B. Sealant/Air Hose
C. Base of Sealant Canister
D. Tire Sealant Canister
E. On/Off Button

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Black plate (65,1)

Vehicle Care
F.

Slot on Top of Compressor

G. Pressure Deflation Button
H. Pressure Gauge

See If a Tire Goes Flat on
page 10‑57 for other important
safety warnings.
1. Remove the compressor from its
storage location. See Storing the
Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit
on page 10‑66.
2. Remove the air only hose (J)
and the power plug (I) from the
bottom of the compressor.
3. Place the compressor on the
ground near the flat tire.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.

Power Plug

Air Only Hose

If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
and wheel damage by driving slowly
to a level place. Turn on the hazard
warning flashers. See Hazard
Warning Flashers on page 6‑4.

4. Remove the valve stem cap
from the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.
5. Attach the air only hose (J) to
the tire valve stem by turning it
clockwise until tight.
6. Plug the power plug (I) into the
accessory power outlet in the
vehicle. Unplug all items from
other accessory power outlets.

10-65

See Power Outlets on page 5‑5.
If the vehicle has an accessory
power outlet, do not use the
cigarette lighter.
If the vehicle only has a cigarette
lighter, use the cigarette lighter.
Do not pinch the power plug
cord in the door or window.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle
must be running while using the
air compressor.
8. Press the on/off button (E) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit on.
The compressor will inflate the
tire with air only.
9. Inflate the tire to the
recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure
gauge (H). The recommended
inflation pressure can be found
on the Tire and Loading
Information label. See Tire
Pressure on page 10‑44.

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10-66

Black plate (66,1)

Vehicle Care

The pressure gauge (H) may
read higher than the actual tire
pressure while the compressor is
on. Turn the compressor off to
get an accurate pressure
reading. The compressor may
be turned on/off until the correct
pressure is reached.
Notice: If the recommended
pressure cannot be reached after
approximately 25 minutes, the
vehicle should not be driven
farther. The tire is too severely
damaged and the tire sealant and
compressor kit cannot inflate the
tire. Remove the power plug from
the accessory power outlet and
unscrew the inflating hose from
the tire valve. See Roadside
Assistance Program on
page 13‑5.
10. Press the on/off button (E) to
turn the tire sealant and
compressor kit off.
Be careful while handling the
compressor as it could be
warm after usage.

11. Unplug the power plug (I) from
the accessory power outlet in
the vehicle.

Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit

12. Turn the air only hose (J)
counterclockwise to remove it
from the tire valve stem.

The tire sealant and compressor kit
is located in the rear storage area.
1. Lift the trim cover.

13. Replace the tire valve
stem cap.
14. Return the air only hose (J)
and power plug (I) back to their
original storage location.
15. Return the equipment to its
original storage location in the
vehicle.
The tire sealant and compressor kit
has accessory adapters located in a
compartment on the bottom of its
housing that can be used to inflate
air mattresses, balls, etc.

2. Remove the tire sealant
canister (A) and the
compressor (B).

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (67,1)

Vehicle Care

10-67

To store the tire sealant canister and
compressor:
1. Attach the sealant/air hose to
the sealant canister inlet valve.
2. Return the sealant canister and
the compressor to their original
storage location.

Tire Changing
Removing the Spare Tire and
Tools
The compact spare tire and tools
are located in the storage
compartment in the rear of the
vehicle.
To access the spare tire and tools:
1. Open the trunk or liftgate. See
Trunk (Sedan) on page 2‑8 or
Liftgate (Hatchback) on
page 2‑10.
2. Lift the trim cover.

3. Turn the retainer
counterclockwise and remove it
from the compact spare.
4. Remove the compact spare tire.
See Compact Spare Tire on
page 10‑73 for more information.

A. Extension
B. Jack
C. Wheel Wrench
D. Strap
5. The jack and tools are stored
below the spare tire. Remove
them from their container and
place them near the tire being
changed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-68

Black plate (68,1)

Vehicle Care

Removing the Flat Tire and
Installing the Spare Tire
1. Do a safety check before
proceeding. See If a Tire Goes
Flat on page 10‑57.

3. Turn the wheel nuts
counterclockwise to loosen
them. Do not remove them yet.

2. Remove the wheel cover, if the
vehicle has one, to reach the
wheel bolts.

4. Place the jack at the position
marked with a half circle.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (69,1)

Vehicle Care
6. Turn the wheel wrench
clockwise until the lift head is
firmly contacting the proper
lifting point nearest the flat tire.

{ WARNING

5. Insert the jack handle into the
jack and the wheel wrench onto
the end of the jack handle.

Getting under a vehicle when it is
lifted on a jack is dangerous.
If the vehicle slips off the jack,
you could be badly injured or
killed. Never get under a vehicle
when it is supported only by
a jack.

10-69

{ WARNING
Raising the vehicle with the
jack improperly positioned can
damage the vehicle and even
make the vehicle fall. To help
avoid personal injury and vehicle
damage, be sure to fit the jack lift
head into the proper location
before raising the vehicle.
7. Turn the wheel wrench
clockwise to raise the vehicle.
Raise the vehicle far enough off
the ground so there is enough
room for the compact spare tire
to fit underneath the wheel well.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-70

Black plate (70,1)

Vehicle Care

8. Turn the wheel nuts
counterclockwise to
remove them.

{ WARNING
Never use oil or grease on bolts
or nuts because the nuts might
come loose. The vehicle's wheel
could fall off, causing a crash.

9. Remove the flat tire.

12. Reinstall the wheel nuts.
Tighten each nut by hand until
the wheel is held against
the hub.
10. Remove any rust or dirt from
the wheel bolts, mounting
surfaces, and spare wheel.
11. Place the compact spare tire
on the wheel-mounting surface.

13. Lower the vehicle by
turning the wheel wrench
counterclockwise. Lower the
jack completely.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (71,1)

Vehicle Care

{ WARNING
Wheel nuts that are improperly or
incorrectly tightened can cause
the wheels to become loose or
come off. The wheel nuts should
be tightened with a torque wrench
to the proper torque specification
after replacing. Follow the torque
specification supplied by the
aftermarket manufacturer when
using accessory locking wheel
nuts. See Capacities and
Specifications on page 12‑2 for
original equipment wheel nut
torque specifications.

10-71

Notice: Improperly tightened
wheel nuts can lead to brake
pulsation and rotor damage. To
avoid expensive brake repairs,
evenly tighten the wheel nuts in
the proper sequence and to the
proper torque specification. See
Capacities and Specifications on
page 12‑2 for the wheel nut
torque specification.

14. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in
a crisscross sequence, as
shown.
Notice: Wheel covers will not fit
on the vehicle's compact spare.
If you try to put a wheel cover on
the compact spare, the cover or
the spare could be damaged.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-72

Black plate (72,1)

Vehicle Care

Storing a Flat or Spare Tire
and Tools

{ WARNING
Storing a jack, a tire, or other
equipment in the passenger
compartment of the vehicle could
cause injury. In a sudden stop or
collision, loose equipment could
strike someone. Store all these in
the proper place.

If the vehicle is a sedan the flat
tire should be against the back
of the rear seats.
If the vehicle is a hatchback the
flat tire should be against the
back of the trunk.

Sedan

Storing the Flat Tire and Tools
1. Return the jack and tools to their
original storage location.
2. Replace the trim cover.
3. Place the flat tire, lying flat, in
the rear storage compartment.

4. Attach one end of the strap to a
cargo tie-down in the rear of the
vehicle.

Hatchback
5. Route the strap through the
wheel, as shown.
6. Attach the other end of the strap
to the other cargo tie-down in
the rear of the vehicle.
7. Tighten the strap.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (73,1)

Vehicle Care
Storing the Compact Spare Tire
and Tools
Reverse the instructions for
removing the spare tire and tools to
store the compact spare tire.
The compact spare tire is for
temporary use only. Replace the
compact spare tire with a full-size
tire as soon as you can. See
Compact Spare Tire on page 10‑73.

Compact Spare Tire

{ WARNING
Driving with more than one
compact spare tire at a time could
result in loss of braking and
handling. This could lead to a
crash and you or others could be
injured. Use only one compact
spare tire at a time.

If this vehicle has a compact spare
tire, it was fully inflated when the
vehicle was new; however, it can
lose air after a time. Check the
inflation pressure regularly. It should
be 420 kPa (60 psi).
Stop as soon as possible and
check that the spare tire is correctly
inflated after installing the spare on
the vehicle. The compact spare is
designed to perform well at speeds
up to 105 km/h (65 mph) for
distances up to 5 000 km (3,000 mi),
so a trip can be completed and the
full-size tire repaired or replaced
when possible. However, the
compact spare tire will last longer
and be in good shape if it is
replaced as soon as possible.

10-73

Notice: When the compact spare
is installed, do not take the
vehicle through an automatic
car wash with guide rails. The
compact spare can get caught on
the rails which can damage the
tire, wheel, and other parts of the
vehicle.
Do not use the compact spare on
other vehicles.
Do not mix the compact spare tire or
wheel with other wheels or tires.
They will not fit. Keep the spare tire
and its wheel together.
Notice: Tire chains will not fit the
compact spare. Using them can
damage the vehicle and can
damage the chains too. Do not
use tire chains on the compact
spare.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-74

Black plate (74,1)

Vehicle Care

Jump Starting
For more information about the
vehicle battery, see Battery on
page 10‑23.
If the battery has run down, try to
use another vehicle and some
jumper cables to start your vehicle.
Be sure to use the following steps to
do it safely.

{

Notice: Ignoring these steps
could result in costly damage to
the vehicle that would not be
covered by the warranty.
Trying to start the vehicle by
pushing or pulling it will not
work, and it could damage the
vehicle.

Batteries can hurt you. They can
be dangerous because:
They contain acid that can
burn you.

They contain gas that can
explode or ignite.

They contain enough
electricity to burn you.

If you do not follow these steps
exactly, some or all of these
things can hurt you.

The positive jump start connection
is under a trim cover. Open the
cover door to expose the terminal.
1. Check the other vehicle. It must
have a 12-volt battery with a
negative ground system.
Notice: Only use a vehicle that
has a 12-volt system with a
negative ground for jump
starting. If the other vehicle does
not have a 12-volt system with a
negative ground, both vehicles
can be damaged.

WARNING

The jump start positive post (B) and
negative post (D) are on the battery
on the driver side of the vehicle.

2. Position the two vehicles so that
they are not touching.

The jump start positive post (A) and
negative post (C) are on the battery
of the vehicle providing the jump
start.

3. Set the parking brake firmly and
put the shift lever in P (Park)
with an automatic transmission,
or Neutral with a manual
transmission. See Shifting Into
Park (Automatic Transmission)
on page 9‑20 with an automatic

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (75,1)

Vehicle Care
transmission, or Parking on
page 9‑22 with a manual
transmission.
Notice: If any accessories are left
on or plugged in during the jump
starting procedure, they could
be damaged. The repairs would
not be covered by the vehicle
warranty. Whenever possible,
turn off or unplug all accessories
on either vehicle when jump
starting the vehicle.
4. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF.
Turn off all lights and
accessories in both vehicles,
except the hazard warning
flashers if needed.

{ WARNING
An electric fan can start up even
when the engine is not running
and can injure you. Keep hands,
clothing and tools away from any
underhood electric fan.

{ WARNING
Using a match near a battery can
cause battery gas to explode.
People have been hurt doing this,
and some have been blinded.
Use a flashlight if you need more
light.

10-75

{ WARNING
Fans or other moving engine
parts can injure you badly. Keep
your hands away from moving
parts once the engine is running.

Be sure the battery has enough
water. You do not need to add
water to the battery installed in
your new vehicle. But if a battery
has filler caps, be sure the right
amount of fluid is there. If it is low,
add water to take care of that
first. If you do not, explosive gas
could be present.
Battery fluid contains acid that
can burn you. Do not get it on
you. If you accidentally get it in
your eyes or on your skin, flush
the place with water and get
medical help immediately.

5. Connect one end of the red
positive (+) cable to the
positive (+) terminal (B) on the
discharged battery.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-76

Black plate (76,1)

Vehicle Care

6. Connect the other end of the
red positive (+) cable to the
positive (+) terminal of the good
battery (A).
7. Connect one end of the black
negative (–) cable to the
negative (–) terminal of the good
battery (C).

Always connect and remove the
jumper cables in the correct
order, making sure that the
cables do not touch each other or
other metal.

3. Disconnect the red positive (+)
cable from the vehicle with the
good battery.

9. Start the engine in the vehicle
with the good battery and run
the engine at idle speed for at
least four minutes.

Notice: If the jumper cables are
connected or removed in the
wrong order, electrical shorting
may occur and damage the
vehicle. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

1. Disconnect the black
negative (−) cable from the
vehicle that had the dead
battery.
2. Disconnect the black
negative (−) cable from the
vehicle with the good battery.

8. Connect the other end of the
black negative (–) cable to the
negative (–) terminal (D) on the
discharged battery.

10. Try to start the vehicle that
had the dead battery. If it will
not start after a few tries, it
probably needs service.

To disconnect the jumper cables
from both vehicles:

4. Disconnect the red positive (+)
cable from the other vehicle.
Jumper Cable Removal
A. Good Battery or Remote
Positive (+) and Remote
Negative (–) Terminals
B. Dead Battery Positive (+) and
Negative (–) Terminals

5. Return the cover over the
positive (+) terminal to the
original position.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (77,1)

Vehicle Care

Towing
Towing the Vehicle
Notice: To avoid damage, the
disabled vehicle should be
towed with all four wheels off
the ground. Care must be taken
with vehicles that have low
ground clearance and/or special
equipment. Always flatbed on a
car carrier.
Consult your dealer or a
professional towing service if the
disabled vehicle must be towed.
See Roadside Assistance Program
on page 13‑5.
To tow the vehicle behind another
vehicle for recreational purposes,
such as behind a motor home, see
“Recreational Vehicle Towing” in this
section.

Recreational Vehicle
Towing
Recreational vehicle towing means
towing the vehicle behind another
vehicle, such as a motor home.
The two most common types of
recreational vehicle towing are
known as dinghy towing and dolly
towing. Dinghy towing is towing the
vehicle with all four wheels on the
ground. Dolly towing is towing the
vehicle with two wheels on the
ground and two wheels up on a
device known as a dolly.

10-77

Here are some important things to
consider before recreational vehicle
towing:
.

What is the towing capacity
of the towing vehicle? Be
sure to read the tow
vehicle manufacturer's
recommendations.

What is the distance that will be
traveled? Some vehicles have
restrictions on how far and how
long they can tow.

Is the proper towing equipment
going to be used? See your
dealer or trailering professional
for additional advice and
equipment recommendations.

Is the vehicle ready to be
towed? Just as preparing the
vehicle for a long trip, make sure
the vehicle is prepared to be
towed.

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10-78

Black plate (78,1)

Vehicle Care

Dinghy Towing
When dinghy towing a vehicle with
an automatic transmission, the
vehicle should be run at the
beginning of each day and at each
RV fuel stop for about five minutes.
This will ensure proper lubrication of
transmission components.

2. Shift the automatic transmission
to P (Park) or a manual
transmission into 1 (First) gear
and turn the ignition to
LOCK/OFF.

Notice: If 105 km/h (65 mph) is
exceeded while towing the
vehicle, it could be damaged.
Never exceed 105 km/h (65 mph)
while towing the vehicle.

3. Set the parking brake.
4. To prevent the battery from
draining while the vehicle is
being towed, remove the
following fuse from the
instrument panel fuse block:
(DLIS). See Instrument Panel
Fuse Block on page 10‑36 for
more information.
5. Turn the ignition to ACC/
ACCESSORY.
6. Shift the automatic transmission
to N (Neutral) or a manual
transmission to Neutral.
7. Release the parking brake.

To dinghy tow the vehicle from the
front with all four wheels on the
ground:
1. Position the vehicle to tow and
then secure it to the towing
vehicle.

Remember to reinstall the DLIS fuse
once the destination has been
reached.

Notice: Towing the vehicle from
the rear could damage it. Also,
repairs would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Never have
the vehicle towed from the rear.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (79,1)

Vehicle Care
Dolly Towing from the Front

2. Drive the front wheels onto the
dolly.

10-79

Dolly Towing from the Rear

3. Put an automatic transmission
in P (Park) or a manual
transmission into 1 (First) gear.
4. Set the parking brake and
remove the key.
5. Clamp the steering wheel in a
straight-ahead position with a
clamping device designed for
towing.
6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly.
The vehicle can be towed from the
front using a dolly. To tow the
vehicle using a dolly, follow these
steps:
1. Attach the dolly to the tow
vehicle following the dolly
manufacturer's instructions.

7. Release the parking brake.

Notice: Towing the vehicle from
the rear with the front wheels
on the ground could cause
transmission damage. Do not tow
the vehicle from the rear with the
front wheels on the ground.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-80

Black plate (80,1)

Vehicle Care

Appearance Care
Exterior Care
Washing the Vehicle
To preserve the vehicle's finish,
wash it often and out of direct
sunlight.
Notice: Do not use petroleum
based, acidic, or abrasive
cleaning agents as they can
damage the vehicle's paint,
metal, or plastic parts. If damage
occurs, it would not be covered
by the vehicle's warranty.
Approved cleaning products can
be obtained from your dealer.
Follow all manufacturer
directions regarding correct
product usage, necessary safety
precautions, and appropriate
disposal of any vehicle care
product.

Notice: Avoid using high
pressure washes closer than
30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the
vehicle. Use of power washers
exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi)
can result in damage or removal
of paint and decals.
Rinse the vehicle well, before
washing and after, to remove all
cleaning agents completely. If they
are allowed to dry on the surface,
they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water
spotting.

Finish Care
Application of aftermarket clearcoat
sealant/wax materials is not
recommended. If painted surfaces
are damaged, see your dealer to
have the damage assessed and
repaired. Foreign materials such as
calcium chloride and other salts, ice
melting agents, road oil and tar, tree
sap, bird droppings, chemicals from
industrial chimneys, etc., can
damage the vehicle's finish if they
remain on painted surfaces. Wash
the vehicle as soon as possible.
If necessary, use non-abrasive
cleaners that are marked safe for
painted surfaces to remove foreign
matter.
Occasional hand waxing or mild
polishing should be done to remove
residue from the paint finish. See
your dealer for approved cleaning
products.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (81,1)

Vehicle Care
Do not apply waxes or polishes to
uncoated plastic, vinyl, rubber,
decals, simulated wood, or flat paint
as damage can occur.
Notice: Machine compounding
or aggressive polishing on a
basecoat/clearcoat paint finish
may damage it. Use only
non-abrasive waxes and polishes
that are made for a basecoat/
clearcoat paint finish on the
vehicle.
To keep the paint finish looking
new, keep the vehicle garaged or
covered whenever possible.
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal
Parts
Regularly clean bright metal parts
with water or chrome polish on
chrome or stainless steel trim,
if necessary.

For aluminum, never use auto or
chrome polish, steam, or caustic
soap to clean. A coating of wax,
rubbed to high polish, is
recommended for all bright metal
parts.

Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield
with glass cleaner.
Clean rubber blades using lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
thoroughly when cleaning the
blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and
a buildup of vehicle wash/wax
treatments may cause wiper
streaking.
Replace the wiper blades if they
are worn or damaged. Damage
can be caused by extreme dusty
conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun,
snow and ice.

10-81

Weatherstrips
Apply silicone grease on
weatherstrips to make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak. See Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 11‑12

Tires
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to
clean the tires.
Notice: Using petroleum-based
tire dressing products on the
vehicle may damage the paint
finish and/or tires. When applying
a tire dressing, always wipe off
any overspray from all painted
surfaces on the vehicle.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-82

Black plate (82,1)

Vehicle Care

Wheels and Trim — Aluminum
or Chrome
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild
soap and water to clean the wheels.
After rinsing thoroughly with clean
water, dry with a soft, clean towel.
A wax may then be applied.
Keep the wheels clean using a soft,
clean cloth with mild soap and
water. Rinse with clean water. After
rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft,
clean towel. A wax may then be
applied.
Notice: Chrome wheels and other
chrome trim may be damaged if
the vehicle is not washed after
driving on roads that have been
sprayed with magnesium,
calcium, or sodium chloride.
These chlorides are used on
roads for conditions such as
ice and dust. Always wash the
chrome with soap and water after
exposure.

Notice: To avoid surface damage,
do not use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes,
cleaners, brushes, or cleaners
that contain acid on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels. Use only
approved cleaners. Also, never
drive a vehicle with aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels through an
automatic car wash that uses
silicone carbide tire cleaning
brushes. Damage could occur
and the repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

Steering, Suspension, and
Chassis Components
Visually inspect front and rear
suspension and steering system for
damaged, loose, or missing parts or
signs of wear. Inspect hoses for
proper hook-up, binding, leaks,
cracks, chafing, etc. Visually check
constant velocity joints, rubber
boots, and axle seals for leaks.

Body Component Lubrication
Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
steel fuel door hinge unless the
components are plastic. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips
with a clean cloth will make them
last longer, seal better, and not stick
or squeak.

Underbody Maintenance
Use plain water to flush dirt and
debris from the vehicle's underbody.
Your dealer or an underbody car
washing system can do this. If not
removed, rust and corrosion can
develop.

Sheet Metal Damage
If the vehicle is damaged and
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body
repair shop applies anti-corrosion
material to parts repaired or
replaced to restore corrosion
protection.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (83,1)

Vehicle Care
Original manufacturer replacement
parts will provide the corrosion
protection while maintaining the
vehicle warranty.

Finish Damage
Quickly repair minor chips and
scratches with touch-up materials
available from your dealer to avoid
corrosion. Larger areas of finish
damage can be corrected in your
dealer's body and paint shop.

Chemical Paint Spotting
Airborne pollutants can fall upon
and attack painted vehicle surfaces
causing blotchy, ring-shaped
discolorations, and small, irregular
dark spots etched into the paint
surface.

Interior Care
To prevent dirt particle abrasions,
regularly clean the vehicle's interior.
Immediately remove any soils. Note
that newspapers or dark garments
that can transfer color to home
furnishings can also permanently
transfer color to the vehicle's
interior.
Use a soft bristle brush to remove
dust from knobs and crevices on the
instrument cluster. Using a mild
soap solution, immediately remove
hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect
repellant from all interior surfaces or
permanent damage may result.
Your dealer may have products for
cleaning the interior. Use cleaners
specifically designed for the
surfaces being cleaned to prevent
permanent damage. To prevent
overspray, apply all cleaners directly
to the cleaning cloth. Cleaners
should be removed quickly. Never
allow cleaners to remain on the
surface being cleaned for extended
periods of time.

10-83

Cleaners may contain solvents that
can become concentrated in the
interior. Before using cleaners, read
and adhere to all safety instructions
on the label. While cleaning the
interior, maintain adequate
ventilation by opening the doors and
windows.
To prevent damage, do not clean
the interior using the following
cleaners or techniques:
.

Never use a razor or any other
sharp object to remove a soil
from any interior surface.

Never use a brush with stiff
bristles.

Never rub any surface
aggressively or with excessive
pressure.

Do not use laundry detergents
or dishwashing soaps with
degreasers. For liquid cleaners,
use approximately 20 drops
per 3.78L (1 gal) of water.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

10-84

Vehicle Care

A concentrated soap solution will
leave a residue that creates
streaks and attracts dirt. Do not
use solutions that contain strong
or caustic soap.
.

Black plate (84,1)

Do not heavily saturate the
upholstery when cleaning.
Do not use solvents or cleaners
containing solvents.

Interior Glass
To clean, use a terry cloth fabric
dampened with water. Wipe droplets
left behind with a clean dry cloth.
Commercial glass cleaners may be
used, if necessary, after cleaning
the interior glass with plain water.
Notice: To prevent scratching,
never use abrasive cleaners on
automotive glass. Abrasive
cleaners or aggressive cleaning
may damage the rear window
defogger.

Fabric/Carpet
Start by vacuuming the surface
using a soft brush attachment. If a
rotating brush attachment is being
used during vacuuming, only use it
on the floor carpet. Before cleaning,
gently remove as much of the soil
as possible using one of the
following techniques:
.

Gently blot liquids with a paper
towel. Continue blotting until no
more soil can be removed.
For solid soils, remove as much
as possible prior to vacuuming.

To clean:
1. Saturate a clean lint-free
colorfast cloth with water or
club soda. Microfiber cloth is
recommended to prevent lint
transfer to the fabric or carpet.
2. Remove excess moisture by
gently wringing until water does
not drip from the cleaning cloth.

3. Start on the outside edge of the
soil and gently rub toward the
center. Rotate the cleaning cloth
to a clean area frequently to
prevent forcing the soil in to the
fabric.
4. Continue gently rubbing the
soiled area until there is no
longer any color transfer from
the soil to the cleaning cloth.
5. If the soil is not completely
removed, use a mild soap
solution followed by only club
soda or plain water.
If the soil is not completely
removed, it may be necessary to
use a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small
hidden area for colorfastness before
using a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. If ring
formation occurs, clean the entire
fabric or carpet.
Following the cleaning process, a
paper towel can be used to blot
excess moisture.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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Vehicle Care
Instrument Panel, Leather,
Vinyl, & Other Plastic Surfaces
Use a soft microfiber cloth
dampened with water to remove
dust and loose dirt. For a more
thorough cleaning, use a soft
microfiber cloth dampened with a
mild soap solution.
Notice: Soaking or saturating
leather, especially perforated
leather, as well as other interior
surfaces, may cause permanent
damage. Wipe excess moisture
from these surfaces after
cleaning and allow them to dry
naturally. Never use heat, steam,
spot lifters or spot removers. Do
not use cleaners that contain
silicone or wax-based products.
Cleaners containing these
solvents can permanently change
the appearance and feel of leather
or soft trim and are not
recommended.

Do not use cleaners that increase
gloss, especially on the instrument
panel. Reflected glare can decrease
visibility through the windshield
under certain conditions.
Notice: Use of air fresheners may
cause permanent damage to
plastics and painted surfaces.
If an air freshener comes in
contact with any plastic or
painted surface in the vehicle,
blot immediately and clean with a
soft cloth dampened with a mild
soap solution. Damage caused
by air fresheners would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.

10-85

Care of Safety Belts
Keep belts clean and dry.

{ WARNING
Do not bleach or dye safety belts.
It may severely weaken them. In
a crash, they might not be able to
provide adequate protection.
Clean safety belts only with mild
soap and lukewarm water.

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10-86

Black plate (86,1)

Vehicle Care

Floor Mats

{ WARNING
If a floor mat is the wrong size
or is not properly installed, it
can interfere with the pedals.
Interference with the pedals can
cause unintended acceleration
and/or increased stopping
distance which can cause a crash
and injury. Make sure the floor
mat does not interfere with the
pedals.

Use the following guidelines for
proper floor mat usage:
.

The original equipment floor
mats were designed for your
vehicle. If the floor mats need
replacing, it is recommended
that GM certified floor mats be
purchased. Non-GM floor mats
may not fit properly and may
interfere with the pedals. Always
check that the floor mats do not
interfere with the pedals.

Use the floor mat with the
correct side up. Do not turn
it over.

Do not place anything on top of
the driver side floor mat.

Use only a single floor mat on
the driver side.

Do not place one floor mat on
top of another.

Removing and Replacing the
Floor Mats
Pull up on the rear of the floor mat
to unlock each retainer and remove.

Reinstall by lining up the floor mat
retainer openings over the carpet
retainers and snap into position.
Make sure the floor mat is properly
secured in place.
Verify the floor mat does not
interfere with the pedals.

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Service and Maintenance

Service and
Maintenance
General Information
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1

Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 11-3

Special Application Services
Special Application
Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8

Additional Maintenance
and Care
Additional Maintenance
and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-9

Recommended Fluids,
Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
Maintenance Replacement
Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-14

Maintenance Records
Maintenance Records . . . . . . 11-15

General Information
Your vehicle is an important
investment. This section describes
the required maintenance for the
vehicle. Follow this schedule to
help protect against major repair
expenses resulting from neglect or
inadequate maintenance. It may
also help to maintain the value of
the vehicle if it is sold. It is the
responsibility of the owner to have
all required maintenance performed.
Your dealer has trained technicians
who can perform required
maintenance using genuine
replacement parts. They have
up‐to‐date tools and equipment for
fast and accurate diagnostics. Many
dealers have extended evening
and Saturday hours, courtesy
transportation, and online
scheduling to assist with service
needs.
Your dealer recognizes the
importance of providing
competitively priced maintenance
and repair services. With trained

11-1

technicians, the dealer is the place
for routine maintenance such as
oil changes and tire rotations and
additional maintenance items like
tires, brakes, batteries, and wiper
blades.
Notice: Damage caused by
improper maintenance can lead
to costly repairs and may not be
covered by the vehicle warranty.
Maintenance intervals, checks,
inspections, recommended fluids,
and lubricants are important to
keep the vehicle in good working
condition.
The Tire Rotation and Required
Services are the responsibility of the
vehicle owner. It is recommended
to have your dealer perform these
services every 12 000 km/7,500 mi.
Proper vehicle maintenance helps to
keep the vehicle in good working
condition, improves fuel economy,
and reduces vehicle emissions.

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11-2

Service and Maintenance

Because of the way people use
vehicles, maintenance needs
vary. There may need to be more
frequent checks and services.
The Additional Required
Services ‐ Normal are for
vehicles that:
.

Black plate (2,1)

Carry passengers and cargo
within recommended limits on
the Tire and Loading Information
label. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑10.
Are driven on reasonable road
surfaces within legal driving
limits.
Use the recommended fuel.
See Recommended Fuel on
page 9‑35.

Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services ‐ Normal chart.

The Additional Required
Services ‐ Severe are for vehicles
that are:
.

Mainly driven in heavy city traffic
in hot weather.

Mainly driven in hilly or
mountainous terrain.

Frequently towing a trailer.

Used for high speed or
competitive driving.

Used for taxi, police, or delivery
service.

Refer to the information in the
Maintenance Schedule Additional
Required Services ‐ Severe chart.

{ WARNING
Performing maintenance work
can be dangerous and can
cause serious injury. Perform
maintenance work only if the
required information, proper tools,
and equipment are available.
If they are not, see your dealer to
have a trained technician do the
work. See Doing Your Own
Service Work on page 10‑4.

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Service and Maintenance

Maintenance
Schedule
Owner Checks and Services
At Each Fuel Stop
.

Check the engine oil level. See
Engine Oil on page 10‑9.

Once a Month
.

Check the tire inflation
pressures. See Tire Pressure on
page 10‑44.

Inspect the tires for wear. See
Tire Inspection on page 10‑50.

Check the windshield washer
fluid level. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑20.

Engine Oil Change
When the Code 82 DIC message
displays, have the engine oil and
filter changed within the next
1 000 km/600 mi. If driven under the
best conditions, the engine oil life
system might not indicate the need
for vehicle service for more than a

year. The engine oil and filter must
be changed at least once a year
and the oil life system must be
reset. Your trained dealer technician
can perform this work. If the engine
oil life system is reset accidentally,
service the vehicle within 5 000 km/
3,000 mi since the last service.
Reset the oil life system when the
oil is changed. See Engine Oil Life
System on page 10‑12.

Tire Rotation and Required
Services Every 12 000 km/
7,500 mi
Rotate the tires, if recommended
for the vehicle, and perform the
following services. See Tire
Rotation on page 10‑50.
.

Check engine oil level and oil
life percentage. If needed,
change engine oil and filter, and
reset oil life system. See Engine
Oil on page 10‑9 and Engine Oil
Life System on page 10‑12.

11-3

Check engine coolant level. See
Engine Coolant on page 10‑16.

Check windshield washer fluid
level. See Washer Fluid on
page 10‑20.

Visually inspect windshield
wiper blades for wear, cracking,
or contamination. See Exterior
Care on page 10‑80. Replace
worn or damaged wiper blades.
See Wiper Blade Replacement
on page 10‑26.

Check tire inflation pressures.
See Tire Pressure on
page 10‑44.

Inspect tire wear. See Tire
Inspection on page 10‑50.

Visually check for fluid leaks.

Inspect engine air cleaner filter.
See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on
page 10‑13.

Inspect brake system.

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11-4
.

Black plate (4,1)

Service and Maintenance

Visually inspect steering,
suspension, and chassis
components for damaged, loose,
or missing parts or signs of
wear. See Exterior Care on
page 10‑80.
Check restraint system
components. See Safety System
Check on page 3‑17.

Visually inspect fuel system for
damage or leaks.

Visually inspect exhaust system
and nearby heat shields for
loose or damaged parts.

Lubricate body components. See
Exterior Care on page 10‑80.

Check starter switch. See Starter
Switch Check on page 10‑24.

Check automatic transmission
shift lock control function. See
Automatic Transmission Shift
Lock Control Function Check on
page 10‑24.

Check ignition transmission lock.
See Ignition Transmission Lock
Check on page 10‑25.
Check parking brake and
automatic transmission park
mechanism. See Park Brake and
P (Park) Mechanism Check on
page 10‑25.

Check accelerator pedal for
damage, high effort, or binding.
Replace if needed.

Visually inspect gas strut for
signs of wear, cracks, or other
damage. Check the hold open
ability of the strut. See your
dealer if service is required.

Inspect sunroof track and seal,
if equipped. See Sunroof on
page 2‑17.

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Service and Maintenance

11-5

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

11-6

Black plate (6,1)

Service and Maintenance

Footnotes — Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services — Normal
a) Or every two years, whichever
comes first. More frequent
replacement may be needed if the
vehicle is driven in areas with heavy
traffic, areas with poor air quality,
or areas with high dust levels.
Replacement may also be needed
if there is a reduction in airflow,
excessive window fogging, or odors.

b) Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook‐up,
routing, and condition. Check that
the purge valve, if the vehicle has
one, works properly. Replace as
needed.
c) Or every four years, whichever
comes first.
d) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first.

e) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System on
page 10‑15.
f) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.

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Service and Maintenance

11-7

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11-8

Black plate (8,1)

Service and Maintenance

Footnotes — Maintenance
Schedule Additional Required
Services — Severe
a) Or every two years, whichever
comes first.
b) Check all fuel and vapor lines
and hoses for proper hook‐up,
routing, and condition. Check that
the purge valve, if the vehicle has
one, works properly. Replace as
needed.

c) Or every four years, whichever
comes first.
d) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first.

Special Application
Services
.

Severe Commercial Use
Vehicles Only: Lubricate chassis
components every 5 000 km/
3,000 mi.

Have underbody flushing service
performed once a year.

e) Or every five years, whichever
comes first. See Cooling System on
page 10‑15.
f) Or every 10 years, whichever
comes first. Inspect for fraying,
excessive cracking, or damage;
replace, if needed.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

Service and Maintenance

11-9

Additional
Maintenance
and Care

Battery

Brakes

The battery supplies power to
start the engine and operate any
additional electrical accessories.

Brakes stop the vehicle and are
crucial to safe driving.

Your vehicle is an important
investment and caring for it
properly may help to avoid
future costly repairs. To maintain
vehicle performance, additional
maintenance services may be
required. It is recommended
that your dealer perform these
services — their trained dealer
technicians know your vehicle best.
Your dealer can also perform a
thorough assessment with a
multi‐point inspection to recommend
when your vehicle may need
attention. The following list is
intended to explain the services
and conditions to look for that may
indicate services are required.

To avoid break‐down or failure
to start the vehicle, maintain a
battery with full cranking power.

Trained dealer technicians have
the diagnostic equipment to test
the battery and ensure that the
connections and cables are
corrosion‐free.

Belts
.

Belts may need replacing if
they squeak or show signs of
cracking or splitting.

Trained dealer technicians
can inspect the belts and
recommend replacement when
necessary.

Signs of brake wear may include
chirping, grinding, or squealing
noises, or difficulty stopping.

Trained dealer technicians have
access to tools and equipment
to inspect the brakes and
recommend quality parts
engineered for the vehicle.

Fluids
Proper fluid levels and approved
fluids protect the vehicle’s
systems and components. See
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑12 for GM
approved fluids.
.

Engine oil and windshield
washer fluid levels should be
checked at every fuel fill.

Instrument cluster lights may
come on to indicate that fluids
may be low and need to be
filled.

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11-10

Black plate (10,1)

Service and Maintenance

Hoses

Shocks and Struts

Tires

Hoses transport fluids and should
be regularly inspected to ensure
that there are no cracks or leaks.
With a multi‐point inspection, your
dealer can inspect the hoses and
advise if replacement is needed.

Shocks and struts help aid in
control for a smoother ride.

Tires need to be properly inflated,
rotated, and balanced. Maintaining
the tires can save money, fuel, and
can reduce the risk of tire failure.

Lamps
Properly working headlamps,
taillamps, and brake lamps are
important to see and be seen on
the road.
.

Signs that the headlamps need
attention include dimming, failure
to light, cracking, or damage.
The brake lamps need to be
checked periodically to ensure
that they light when braking.

With a multi‐point inspection,
your dealer can check the lamps
and note any concerns.

Signs of wear may include
steering wheel vibration,
bounce/sway while braking,
longer stopping distance,
or uneven tire wear.
As part of the multi‐point
inspection, trained dealer
technicians can visually inspect
the shocks and struts for
signs of leaking, blown seals,
or damage, and can advise
when service is needed.

Signs that the tires need to be
replaced include three or more
visible treadwear indicators; cord
or fabric showing through the
rubber; cracks or cuts in the
tread or sidewall; or a bulge or
split in the tire.

Trained dealer technicians can
inspect and recommend the
right tires. Your dealer can also
provide tire/wheel balancing
services to ensure smooth
vehicle operation at all speeds.
Your dealer sells and services
name brand tires.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (11,1)

Service and Maintenance

11-11

Vehicle Care

Windshield

Wiper Blades

To help keep the vehicle looking
like new, vehicle care products are
available from your dealer. For
information on how to clean and
protect the vehicle’s interior and
exterior, see Interior Care on
page 10‑83 and Exterior Care on
page 10‑80.

For safety, appearance, and the
best viewing, keep the windshield
clean and clear.

Wiper blades need to be cleaned
and kept in good condition to
provide a clear view.

Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is critical for
ensuring that the tires deliver
optimal wear and performance.
.

Signs that the alignment may
need to be adjusted include
pulling, improper vehicle
handling, or unusual tire wear.

Your dealer has the required
equipment to ensure proper
wheel alignment.

Signs of damage include
scratches, cracks, and chips.

Trained dealer technicians can
inspect the windshield and
recommend proper replacement
if needed.

Signs of wear include streaking,
skipping across the windshield,
and worn or split rubber.

Trained dealer technicians can
check the wiper blades and
replace them when needed.

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11-12

Black plate (12,1)

Service and Maintenance

Recommended Fluids, Lubricants, and Parts
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.
Usage
Engine Oil
Engine Coolant
Hydraulic Brake/Clutch System
Windshield Washer
Automatic Transmission
Manual Transmission

Fluid/Lubricant
Use only engine oil licensed to the dexos1 specfication, or equivalent, of
the proper SAE viscosity grade. ACDelco dexos1 Synthetic Blend is
recommended. See Engine Oil on page 10‑9.
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and use only DEX-COOL Coolant.
See Engine Coolant on page 10‑16
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 88863461, in
Canada 88863462).
Automotive windshield washer fluid that meets regional freeze protection
requirements.
DEXRON®-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
See your dealer.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (13,1)

Service and Maintenance
Usage
Key Lock Cylinders

Fluid/Lubricant
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).

Manual Transmission Shift Linkage

Chassis Lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985, in Canada 88901242) or
lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.

Chassis Lubrication

Chassis Lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985, in Canada 88901242) or
lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.

Hood Latch Assembly, Secondary
Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor, and
Release Pawl
Hood and Door Hinges
Weatherstrip Conditioning

11-13

Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. 12346293, in Canada 992723)
or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI #2, Category LB or GC-LB.
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in
Canada 10953474).
Weatherstrip Lubricant (GM Part No. 3634770, in Canada 10953518) or
Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579, in Canada 992887).

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

11-14

Black plate (14,1)

Service and Maintenance

Maintenance Replacement Parts
Replacement parts identified below by name, part number, or specification can be obtained from your dealer.

Maintenance Replacement Parts
Part

GM Part Number

ACDelco Part Number

Engine Air Cleaner/Filter

96950990

—

Engine Oil Filter

93185674

PF2257G

Passenger Compartment Air Filter

13271190

CF181

Spark Plugs

55580961

41–120

Driver Side – 65.0 cm (25.6 in)

95228809

—

Passenger Side – 38.0 cm (15.0 in)

95228810

—

Rear – 26.5 cm (10.4 in)

95016702

—

Wiper Blades

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Service and Maintenance

11-15

Maintenance Records
After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the
type of services performed in the boxes provided. Retain all maintenance receipts.
Date

Odometer
Reading

Serviced By

Services Performed

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11-16

Date

Black plate (16,1)

Service and Maintenance
Odometer
Reading

Serviced By

Services Performed

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Black plate (17,1)

Service and Maintenance

Date

Odometer
Reading

Serviced By

Services Performed

11-17

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11-18

Date

Black plate (18,1)

Service and Maintenance
Odometer
Reading

Serviced By

Services Performed

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Technical Data

Vehicle Identification

Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN)

Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Service Parts Identification
Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1

Vehicle Data
Capacities and
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Engine Drive Belt Routing . . . 12-3

12-1

Engine Identification
The eighth character in the VIN
is the engine code. This code
identifies the vehicle's engine,
specifications, and replacement
parts. See “Engine Specifications”
under Capacities and Specifications
on page 12‑2 for the vehicle's
engine code.

Service Parts
Identification Label
This label, in the spare tire well
in the trunk, has the following
information:

This legal identifier is in the front
corner of the instrument panel, on
the left side of the vehicle. It can be
seen through the windshield from
outside. The VIN also appears on
the Vehicle Certification and Service
Parts labels and certificates of title
and registration.

Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).

Model designation.

Paint information.

Production options and special
equipment.

Do not remove this label from the
vehicle.

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12-2

Black plate (2,1)

Technical Data

Vehicle Data
Capacities and Specifications
The following approximate capacities are given in metric and English conversions. See Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants on page 11‑12 for more information.
Application

Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a

Capacities
Metric

English

For the air conditioning system refrigerant charge
amount, see the refrigerant label located under the
hood. See your dealer for more information.

Cooling System
1.4L L4

6.5 L

6.9 qt

1.8L L4

6.0 L

6.3 qt

1.4L L4

4.0 L

4.2 qt

1.8L L4

4.5 L

4.8 qt

46.0 L

12.2 gal

140 Y

100 lb ft

Engine Oil with Filter

Fuel Tank
Wheel Nut Torque

All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this
manual. Recheck fluid level after filling.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

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Technical Data

12-3

Engine Specifications
VIN Code

Transmission

Spark Plug Gap

1.4L L4

Engine

Manual

0.7 mm (0.028 in)

1.8L L4

Automatic and Manual

0.7 mm (0.028 in)

Engine Drive Belt Routing

1.4L L4 Engine

1.8L L4 Engine (with Air
Conditioning)

1.8L L4 Engine (without Air
Conditioning)

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12-4

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Technical Data

2 NOTES

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Customer Information

Customer
Information
Customer Information
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1
Customer Assistance
Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-3
Customer Assistance for Text
Telephone (TTY) Users . . . . . 13-4
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . 13-4
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Scheduling Service
Appointments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-7
Courtesy Transportation
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8
Collision Damage Repair . . . . 13-9
Service Publications
Ordering Information . . . . . . 13-12

Reporting Safety Defects
Reporting Safety Defects to
the United States
Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Reporting Safety Defects to
the Canadian
Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Reporting Safety Defects to
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14

Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy
Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . 13-14
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-15
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . 13-15
Radio Frequency
Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16

13-1

Customer Information
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure
Your satisfaction and goodwill are
important to your dealer and to
Chevrolet. Normally, any concerns
with the sales transaction or the
operation of the vehicle will be
resolved by your dealer's sales or
service departments. Sometimes,
however, despite the best intentions
of all concerned, misunderstandings
can occur. If your concern has not
been resolved to your satisfaction,
the following steps should be taken:
STEP ONE: Discuss your concern
with a member of dealership
management. Normally, concerns
can be quickly resolved at that level.
If the matter has already been
reviewed with the sales, service,
or parts manager, contact the owner
of your dealership or the general
manager.

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13-2

Customer Information

STEP TWO: If after contacting a
member of dealership management,
it appears your concern cannot be
resolved by your dealership without
further help, in the U.S., call the
Chevrolet Customer Assistance
Center at 1-800-222-1020. In
Canada, call General Motors of
Canada Customer Care Centre
at 1-800-263-3777 (English),
or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
We encourage you to call the
toll-free number in order to give your
inquiry prompt attention. Have the
following information available to
give the Customer Assistance
representative:
.

Black plate (2,1)

Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN). This is available
from the vehicle registration or
title, or the plate at the top left of
the instrument panel and visible
through the windshield.

Dealership name and location.

Vehicle delivery date and
present mileage.

When contacting Chevrolet,
remember that your concern will
likely be resolved at a dealer's
facility. That is why we suggest
following Step One first.

40 days. If you do not agree with the
decision given in your case, you
may reject it and proceed with any
other venue for relief available
to you.

STEP THREE — U.S. Owners:
Both General Motors and your
dealer are committed to making
sure you are completely satisfied
with the new vehicle. However,
if you continue to remain unsatisfied
after following the procedure
outlined in Steps One and Two, you
can file with the Better Business
Bureau (BBB) Auto Line® Program
to enforce your rights.

You may contact the BBB Auto
Line Program using the toll-free
telephone number or write them at
the following address:

The BBB Auto Line Program is an
out-of-court program administered
by the Council of Better Business
Bureaus to settle automotive
disputes regarding vehicle repairs or
the interpretation of the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty. Although you may
be required to resort to this informal
dispute resolution program prior to
filing a court action, use of the
program is free of charge and your
case will generally be heard within

BBB Auto Line Program
Council of Better Business
Bureaus, Inc.
4200 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 800
Arlington, VA 22203-1838
Telephone: 1-800-955-5100
www.dr.bbb.org/goauto
This program is available in all
50 states and the District of
Columbia. Eligibility is limited by
vehicle age, mileage, and other
factors. General Motors reserves
the right to change eligibility
limitations and/or discontinue its
participation in this program.

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Customer Information
STEP THREE — Canadian
Owners: In the event that you do
not feel your concerns have been
addressed after following the
procedure outlined in Steps One
and Two, General Motors of Canada
Limited wants you to be aware
of its participation in a no-charge
Mediation/Arbitration Program.
General Motors of Canada Limited
has committed to binding arbitration
of owner disputes involving
factory-related vehicle service
claims. The program provides for
the review of the facts involved by
an impartial third party arbiter, and
may include an informal hearing
before the arbiter. The program is
designed so that the entire dispute
settlement process, from the time
you file your complaint to the final
decision, should be completed in
about 70 days. We believe our
impartial program offers advantages
over courts in most jurisdictions
because it is informal, quick, and
free of charge.

For further information concerning
eligibility in the Canadian Motor
Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP),
call toll-free 1-800-207-0685, or call
the General Motors Customer Care
Centre, 1-800-263-3777 (English),
1-800-263-7854 (French),
or write to:

Customer Assistance
Offices

The Mediation/Arbitration Program
c/o Customer Care Centre
General Motors of Canada Limited
Mail Code: CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

United States

The inquiry should be accompanied
by the Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).

13-3

Chevrolet encourages customers
to call the toll-free number for
assistance. However, if a customer
wishes to write or e-mail Chevrolet,
the letter should be addressed to:
Chevrolet Motor Division
Chevrolet Customer
Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33170
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
www.Chevrolet.com
1-800-222-1020
1-800-833-2438 (For Text
Telephone Devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance:
1-800-243-8872
From Puerto Rico:
1-800-496-9992 (English)
1-800-496-9993 (Spanish)
From U.S. Virgin Islands:
1-800-496-9994

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13-4

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Customer Information

Canada
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Care Centre, Mail Code:
CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
www.gm.ca
1-800-263-3777 (English)
1-800-263-7854 (French)
1-800-263-3830 (For Text
Telephone devices (TTYs))
Roadside Assistance:
1-800-268-6800

Overseas
Please contact the local General
Motors Business Unit.

Mexico, Central America, and
Caribbean Islands/Countries
(Except Puerto Rico and U.S.
Virgin Islands)
General Motors de Mexico, S. de
R.L. de C.V.
Customer Assistance Center
Av. Ejercito Nacional #843
Col. Granada
C.P. 11520, Mexico, D.F.
01-800-466-0800
Long Distance: 011-52-53 29 0800

Customer Assistance for
Text Telephone (TTY)
Users
To assist customers who are deaf,
hard of hearing, or speech-impaired
and who use Text Telephones
(TTYs), Chevrolet has TTY
equipment available at its Customer
Assistance Center. Any TTY
user in the U.S. can communicate
with Chevrolet by dialing:
1-800-833-2438. TTY users in
Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.

Online Owner Center
Manage your vehicle (U.S.)
at chevrolet.com. Click on
“Owners,” then “Manage My
Chevrolet/Owners Login.”
Information and services
customized for your specific
vehicle — all in one convenient
place.
.

Digital owner manual, warranty
information, and more.

Storage for online service and
maintenance records.

Chevrolet dealer locator for
service nationwide.

Exclusive privileges and offers.

Recall notices for your specific
vehicle.

OnStar and GM Cardmember
Services Earnings summaries.

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Customer Information
Other Helpful Links

Chevrolet — www.chevrolet.com
Chevrolet Merchandise —
www.chevymall.com

Retrieve your favorite articles,
quizzes, tips and multimedia
galleries organized into the
Features and Auto Care
Sections.

Help Center — www.chevrolet.com/
pages/mds/helpcenter/faq.do

Download the owner manual for
your vehicle, quickly and easily.

FAQ

Find the
Chevrolet-recommended
maintenance services for your
vehicle.

Chevrolet Owner Centre
(Canada) chevroletowner.ca
Take a trip to the Chevrolet Owner
Centre:
.

Chat live with online help
representatives.

Use the Vehicle Tools section.

Access third party enthusiast
sites and social media networks.

Locate owner resources such as
lease-end, financing, and
warranty information.

GM Mobility
Reimbursement Program

13-5

required for the vehicle, such as
hand controls or a wheelchair/
scooter lift for the vehicle.
For more information on the limited
offer, visit www.gmmobility.com or
call the GM Mobility Assistance
Center at 1-800-323-9935. Text
Telephone (TTY) users, call
1-800-833-9935.
General Motors of Canada also
has a Mobility Program. Call
1-800-GM-DRIVE (463-7483)
for details. TTY users call
1-800-263-3830.

Roadside Assistance
Program
For U.S.‐purchased vehicles, call
1‐800‐243‐8872; (Text Telephone
(TTY): 1‐888‐889‐2438).
This program is available to
qualified applicants for cost
reimbursement of eligible
aftermarket adaptive equipment

For Canadian‐purchased vehicles,
call 1-800-268-6800.
Service is available 24 hours a day,
365 days a year.

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13-6

Customer Information

Calling for Assistance
When calling Roadside Assistance,
have the following information
ready:
.

Your name, home address, and
home telephone number.

Telephone number of your
location.

Location of the vehicle.

Model, year, color, and license
plate number of the vehicle.

Odometer reading, Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), and
delivery date of the vehicle.

Black plate (6,1)

Description of the problem.

Roadside Assistance is not a part of
the New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Chevrolet and General Motors of
Canada Limited reserve the right to
make any changes or discontinue
the Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification.
Chevrolet and General Motors of
Canada Limited reserve the right to
limit services or payment to an
owner or driver if they decide the
claims are made too often, or the
same type of claim is made many
times.

In the U.S., anyone driving the
vehicle is covered. In Canada, a
person driving the vehicle without
permission from the owner is not
covered.

Emergency Tow from a Public
Road or Highway: Tow to the
nearest Chevrolet dealer for
warranty service, or if the vehicle
was in a crash and cannot be
driven. Assistance is also given
when the vehicle is stuck in the
sand, mud, or snow.

Flat Tire Change: Service to
change a flat tire with the spare
tire. The spare tire, if equipped,
must be in good condition and
properly inflated. It is the owner's
responsibility for the repair or
replacement of the tire if it is not
covered by the warranty.

Battery Jump Start: Service to
jump start a dead battery.

Services Provided
.

Coverage
Services are provided up to
5 years/160 000 km (100,000 mi),
whichever comes first.

Emergency Fuel Delivery:
Delivery of enough fuel for the
vehicle to get to the nearest
service station.
Lock‐Out Service: Service to
unlock the vehicle if you are
locked out. A remote unlock may
be available if you have OnStar.
For security reasons, the driver
must present identification
before this service is given.

Services Not Included in
Roadside Assistance
.

Impound towing caused by
violation of any laws.

Legal fines.

Mounting, dismounting,
or changing of snow tires,
chains, or other traction devices.

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Customer Information
.

Towing or services for vehicles
driven on a non-public road or
highway.

General Motors of
Canada Limited requires
pre-authorization, original
detailed receipts, and a copy
of the repair orders. Once
authorization has been received,
the Roadside Assistance advisor
will help to make arrangements
and explain how to receive
payment.

Services Specific to
Canadian-Purchased Vehicles
.

Fuel Delivery: Reimbursement
is approximately $5 Canadian.
Diesel fuel delivery may be
restricted. Propane and other
fuels are not provided through
this service.

Lock-Out Service: Vehicle
registration is required.

Trip Routing Service: Detailed
maps of North America are
provided when requested either
with the most direct route or the
most scenic route. There is a
limit of six requests per year.
Additional travel information is
also available. Allow three
weeks for delivery.

Trip Interruption Benefits and
Assistance: Must be over
250 kilometers from where your
trip was started to qualify.

Alternative Service: If
assistance cannot be provided
right away, the Roadside
Assistance advisor may
give permission to get local
emergency road service.
You will receive payment,
up to $100, after sending the
original receipt to Roadside
Assistance. Mechanical failures
may be covered, however any
cost for parts and labor for
repairs not covered by the
warranty are the owner
responsibility.

13-7

Scheduling Service
Appointments
When the vehicle requires warranty
service, contact your dealer and
request an appointment. By
scheduling a service appointment
and advising the service consultant
of your transportation needs, your
dealer can help minimize your
inconvenience.
If the vehicle cannot be scheduled
into the service department
immediately, keep driving it until
it can be scheduled for service,
unless, of course, the problem is
safety related. If it is, please call
your dealership, let them know this,
and ask for instructions.
If your dealer requests you to bring
the vehicle for service, you are
urged to do so as early in the
work day as possible to allow for
same-day repair.

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13-8

Black plate (8,1)

Customer Information

Courtesy Transportation
Program
To enhance your ownership
experience, we and our participating
dealers are proud to offer Courtesy
Transportation, a customer support
program for vehicles with the
Bumper-to-Bumper (Base Warranty
Coverage period in Canada),
extended powertrain, and/or
hybrid-specific warranties in both
the U.S. and Canada.
Several Courtesy Transportation
options are available to assist in
reducing inconvenience when
warranty repairs are required.
Courtesy Transportation is not a
part of the New Vehicle Limited
Warranty. A separate booklet
entitled “Limited Warranty and
Owner Assistance Information”
furnished with each new vehicle
provides detailed warranty coverage
information.

Transportation Options
Warranty service can generally be
completed while you wait. However,
if you are unable to wait, GM helps
to minimize inconvenience by
providing several transportation
options. Depending on the
circumstances, your dealer can
offer one of the following:
Shuttle Service
Shuttle service is the preferred
means of offering Courtesy
Transportation. Dealers may provide
shuttle service to get you to your
destination with minimal interruption
of your daily schedule. This includes
one-way or round-trip shuttle service
within reasonable time and distance
parameters of your dealer's area.
Public Transportation or Fuel
Reimbursement
If the vehicle requires overnight
warranty repairs, and public
transportation is used instead of
your dealer's shuttle service, the
expense must be supported by

original receipts and can only
be up to the maximum amount
allowed by GM for shuttle service.
In addition, for U.S. customers,
should you arrange transportation
through a friend or relative, limited
reimbursement for reasonable fuel
expenses may be available. Claim
amounts should reflect actual
costs and be supported by original
receipts. See your dealer for
information regarding the allowance
amounts for reimbursement of fuel
or other transportation costs.
Courtesy Rental Vehicle
Your dealer may arrange to provide
you with a courtesy rental vehicle or
reimburse you for a rental vehicle
that you obtain if the vehicle is kept
for an overnight warranty repair.
Rental reimbursement will be limited
and must be supported by original
receipts. This requires that you sign
and complete a rental agreement
and meet state/provincial, local, and
rental vehicle provider requirements.

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Black plate (9,1)

Customer Information
Requirements vary and may
include minimum age requirements,
insurance coverage, credit card,
etc. You are responsible for fuel
usage charges and may also be
responsible for taxes, levies, usage
fees, excessive mileage, or rental
usage beyond the completion of the
repair.
It may not be possible to provide a
like vehicle as a courtesy rental.

Additional Program
Information
All program options, such as shuttle
service, may not be available at
every dealer. Please contact your
dealer for specific information
about availability. All Courtesy
Transportation arrangements will be
administered by appropriate dealer
personnel.

General Motors reserves the right
to unilaterally modify, change,
or discontinue Courtesy
Transportation at any time and to
resolve all questions of claim
eligibility pursuant to the terms and
conditions described herein at its
sole discretion.

Collision Damage Repair
If the vehicle is involved in a
collision and it is damaged, have
the damage repaired by a qualified
technician using the proper
equipment and quality replacement
parts. Poorly performed collision
repairs diminish the vehicle resale
value, and safety performance can
be compromised in subsequent
collisions.

Collision Parts
Genuine GM Collision parts are
new parts made with the same
materials and construction methods
as the parts with which the vehicle
was originally built. Genuine GM
Collision parts are the best choice to

13-9

ensure that the vehicle's designed
appearance, durability, and safety
are preserved. The use of Genuine
GM parts can help maintain the GM
New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
Recycled original equipment parts
may also be used for repair. These
parts are typically removed from
vehicles that were total losses in
prior crashes. In most cases, the
parts being recycled are from
undamaged sections of the vehicle.
A recycled original equipment GM
part may be an acceptable choice
to maintain the vehicle's originally
designed appearance and safety
performance; however, the history of
these parts is not known. Such parts
are not covered by the GM New
Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any
related failures are not covered by
that warranty.
Aftermarket collision parts are also
available. These are made by
companies other than GM and may
not have been tested for the vehicle.

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13-10

Black plate (10,1)

Customer Information

As a result, these parts may fit
poorly, exhibit premature durability/
corrosion problems, and may not
perform properly in subsequent
collisions. Aftermarket parts are not
covered by the GM New Vehicle
Limited Warranty, and any vehicle
failure related to such parts is not
covered by that warranty.

Repair Facility
GM also recommends that you
choose a collision repair facility that
meets your needs before you ever
need collision repairs. Your dealer
may have a collision repair center
with GM-trained technicians and
state‐of‐the‐art equipment, or be
able to recommend a collision
repair center that has GM-trained
technicians and comparable
equipment.

Insuring the Vehicle
Protect your investment in the GM
vehicle with comprehensive and
collision insurance coverage.
There are significant differences in
the quality of coverage afforded by
various insurance policy terms.
Many insurance policies provide
reduced protection to the GM
vehicle by limiting compensation
for damage repairs by using
aftermarket collision parts. Some
insurance companies will not
specify aftermarket collision parts.
When purchasing insurance, we
recommend that you ensure that the
vehicle will be repaired with GM
original equipment collision parts.
If such insurance coverage is
not available from your current
insurance carrier, consider switching
to another insurance carrier.

If the vehicle is leased, the leasing
company may require you to have
insurance that ensures repairs with
Genuine GM Original Equipment
Manufacturer (OEM) parts or
Genuine Manufacturer replacement
parts. Read the lease carefully, as
you may be charged at the end of
the lease for poor quality repairs.

If a Crash Occurs
If there has been an injury, call
emergency services for help. Do not
leave the scene of a crash until all
matters have been taken care of.
Move the vehicle only if its position
puts you in danger, or you are
instructed to move it by a police
officer.
Give only the necessary information
to police and other parties involved
in the crash.
For emergency towing see
Roadside Assistance Program on
page 13‑5.

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Black plate (11,1)

Customer Information
Gather the following information:
.

Driver name, address, and
telephone number.

Driver license number.

Owner name, address, and
telephone number.

Vehicle license plate number.

Vehicle make, model, and
model year.

Vehicle Identification
Number (VIN).

Insurance company and policy
number.

General description of the
damage to the other vehicle.

Choose a reputable repair facility
that uses quality replacement parts.
See “Collision Parts” earlier in this
section.

If the airbag has inflated, see What
Will You See after an Airbag
Inflates? on page 3‑24.

Managing the Vehicle Damage
Repair Process
In the event that the vehicle requires
damage repairs, GM recommends
that you take an active role in its
repair. If you have a pre-determined
repair facility of choice, take the
vehicle there, or have it towed
there. Specify to the facility that any
required replacement collision parts
be original equipment parts, either
new Genuine GM parts or recycled
original GM parts. Remember,
recycled parts will not be covered
by the GM vehicle warranty.

13-11

Insurance pays the bill for the repair,
but you must live with the repair.
Depending on your policy limits,
your insurance company may
initially value the repair using
aftermarket parts. Discuss this with
the repair professional, and insist
on Genuine GM parts. Remember,
if the vehicle is leased, you may
be obligated to have the vehicle
repaired with Genuine GM parts,
even if your insurance coverage
does not pay the full cost.
If another party's insurance
company is paying for the repairs,
you are not obligated to accept a
repair valuation based on that
insurance company's collision
policy repair limits, as you have no
contractual limits with that company.
In such cases, you can have control
of the repair and parts choices as
long as the cost stays within
reasonable limits.

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13-12

Black plate (12,1)

Customer Information

Service Publications
Ordering Information
Service Manuals
Service Manuals have the diagnosis
and repair information on the
engines, transmission, axle,
suspension, brakes, electrical,
steering, body, etc.

Service Bulletins
Service Bulletins give additional
technical service information
needed to knowledgeably service
General Motors cars and trucks.
Each bulletin contains instructions
to assist in the diagnosis and
service of the vehicle.

Owner Information

Current and Past Models

Owner publications are written
specifically for owners and
intended to provide basic
operational information about the
vehicle. The Owner Manual includes
the Maintenance Schedule for all
models.

Technical Service Bulletins and
Manuals are available for current
and past model GM vehicles.

In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio,
Owner Manual, and Warranty
Booklet.
RETAIL SELL PRICE:
$35.00 (U.S.) plus handling and
shipping fees.
Without Portfolio: Owner
Manual only.
RETAIL SELL PRICE:
$25.00 (U.S.) plus handling and
shipping fees.

ORDER TOLL FREE:
1-800-551-4123 Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM Eastern Time
For Credit Card Orders Only
(VISA-MasterCard-Discover), visit
Helm, Inc. at: www.helminc.com.
Or write to:
Helm, Incorporated
Attention: Customer Service
47911 Halyard Drive
Plymouth, MI 48170
Prices are subject to change
without notice and without incurring
obligation. Allow ample time for
delivery.
All listed prices are quoted in U.S.
funds. Make checks payable in U.S.
funds.

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Black plate (13,1)

Customer Information

Reporting Safety
Defects
Reporting Safety Defects
to the United States
Government
If you believe that your vehicle
has a defect which could cause
a crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately
inform the National Highway
Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA) in addition to notifying
General Motors.
If NHTSA receives similar
complaints, it may open an
investigation, and if it finds
that a safety defect exists in a
group of vehicles, it may order
a recall and remedy campaign.

13-13

However, NHTSA cannot
become involved in individual
problems between you, your
dealer, or General Motors.

Reporting Safety Defects
to the Canadian
Government

To contact NHTSA, you may
call the Vehicle Safety Hotline
toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or
write to:

If you live in Canada, and you
believe that the vehicle has a safety
defect, notify Transport Canada
immediately, and notify General
Motors of Canada Limited.
Call Transport Canada at
1-800-333-0510 or write to:

Administrator, NHTSA
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590

Transport Canada
Road Safety Branch
80 rue Noel
Gatineau, QC J8Z 0A1

You can also obtain other
information about motor
vehicle safety from
http://www.safercar.gov.

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13-14

Black plate (14,1)

Customer Information

Reporting Safety Defects
to General Motors
In addition to notifying NHTSA (or
Transport Canada) in a situation like
this, notify General Motors.
Call 1-800-222-1020, or write:
Chevrolet Motor Division
Chevrolet Customer
Assistance Center
P.O. Box 33170
Detroit, MI 48232-5170
In Canada, call 1-800-263-3777
(English) or 1-800-263-7854
(French), or write:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Care Centre,
Mail Code: CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

Vehicle Data
Recording and
Privacy
This GM vehicle has a number of
sophisticated computers that record
information about the vehicle’s
performance and how it is driven.
For example, the vehicle uses
computer modules to monitor and
control engine and transmission
performance, to monitor the
conditions for airbag deployment
and deploy airbags in a crash, and,
if so equipped, to provide antilock
braking to help the driver control the
vehicle. These modules may store
data to help your dealer technician
service the vehicle. Some modules
may also store data about how you
operate the vehicle, such as rate of
fuel consumption or average speed.
These modules may also retain the
owner’s personal preferences, such
as radio presets, seat positions, and
temperature settings.

Event Data Recorders
This vehicle has an Event Data
Recorder (EDR). The main purpose
of an EDR is to record, in certain
crash or near crash-like situations,
such as an airbag deployment or
hitting a road obstacle, data that
will assist in understanding how a
vehicle's systems performed. The
EDR is designed to record data
related to vehicle dynamics and
safety systems for a short period of
time, typically 30 seconds or less.
The EDR in this vehicle is designed
to record such data as:
.

How various systems in the
vehicle were operating.

Whether or not the driver and
passenger safety belts were
buckled/fastened.

How far, if at all, the driver was
pressing the accelerator and/or
brake pedal.

How fast the vehicle was
traveling.

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Black plate (15,1)

Customer Information
This data can help provide a better
understanding of the circumstances
in which crashes and injuries occur.
Important: EDR data is recorded
by the vehicle only if a non-trivial
crash situation occurs; no data is
recorded by the EDR under normal
driving conditions and no personal
data (e.g., name, gender, age,
and crash location) is recorded.
However, other parties, such as
law enforcement, could combine
the EDR data with the type of
personally identifying data routinely
acquired during a crash
investigation.
To read data recorded by an EDR,
special equipment is required, and
access to the vehicle or the EDR is
needed. In addition to the vehicle
manufacturer, other parties, such as
law enforcement, that have the
special equipment, can read the
information if they have access to
the vehicle or the EDR.

GM will not access this data or
share it with others except: with the
consent of the vehicle owner or,
if the vehicle is leased, with the
consent of the lessee; in response
to an official request by police or
similar government office; as part of
GM's defense of litigation through
the discovery process; or, as
required by law. Data that GM
collects or receives may also be
used for GM research needs or may
be made available to others for
research purposes, where a need is
shown and the data is not tied to a
specific vehicle or vehicle owner.

OnStar®
If the vehicle is equipped with an
active OnStar system, that system
may also record data in crash or
near crash-like situations. The
OnStar Terms and Conditions
provides information on data
collection and use and is available

13-15

at www.onstar.com (U.S.) or
www.onstar.ca (Canada), or by
pressing the Q button and
speaking to an advisor. See
OnStar Overview on page 14‑1.

Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID)
RFID technology is used in some
vehicles for functions such as tire
pressure monitoring and ignition
system security, as well as in
connection with conveniences
such as key fobs for remote door
locking/unlocking and starting, and
in-vehicle transmitters for garage
door openers. RFID technology in
GM vehicles does not use or record
personal information or link with any
other GM system containing
personal information.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

13-16

Customer Information

Radio Frequency
Statement
This vehicle has systems that
operate on a radio frequency that
comply with Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and with Industry Canada
Standards RSS‐GEN/210/220/310.
Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
1. The device may not cause
harmful interference.
2. The device must accept any
interference received, including
interference that may cause
undesired operation of the
device.
Changes or modifications to any of
these systems by other than an
authorized service facility could void
authorization to use this equipment.

Black plate (16,1)

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (1,1)

OnStar

OnStar Overview

OnStar Overview
OnStar Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1

OnStar Services
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14-2
14-2
14-2
14-4
14-5

OnStar Additional Information
OnStar Additional
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5

Solid Green: System is ready.

Flashing Green: On a call.

Red: Indicates a problem.

Push Q or call 1‐888‐4‐ONSTAR
(1‐888‐466‐7827) to speak to an
Advisor.

Push

14-1

X to:

Make a call, end a call,
or answer an incoming call.

Give OnStar Hands-Free Calling
voice commands.

Give OnStar Turn-by-Turn
Navigation voice commands.
Requires the available Directions
and Connections service plan.

Push Q to connect to a live
Advisor to:
.

Verify account information or
update contact information.

Get driving directions. Requires
the available Directions and
Connections service plan.

Receive On-Demand
Diagnostics for a check on the
vehicle’s key operating systems.

Receive Roadside Assistance.

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14-2

Black plate (2,1)

OnStar

Push ] to get a priority connection
to an Emergency Advisor available
24/7 to:
.

Get help for an emergency.

Be a Good Samaritan or
respond to an AMBER Alert.

Get crisis assistance and
evacuation routes.

OnStar Services

Navigation

Emergency

OnStar navigation requires the
Directions and Connections
service plan.

With Automatic Crash Response,
the built-in system can automatically
connect to help in a crash even if
you cannot ask for it.
Push ] to connect to an
Emergency Advisor. GPS
technology is used to identify the
vehicle location and can provide
critical information to emergency
personnel. The Advisor is also
trained to offer critical assistance in
emergency situations.

Security
OnStar provides services like Stolen
Vehicle Assistance, Remote Ignition
Block, and Roadside Assistance,
if the vehicle is equipped with these
services. OnStar can unlock the
vehicle doors remotely, if it is
equipped with automatic door locks,
and can help police locate the
vehicle if it is stolen.

Push Q to receive directions or
have them sent to the vehicle
navigation screen. Destinations
can also be forwarded to the
vehicle from Google Maps™ or
MapQuest.com. The OnStar
mapping database is continuously
updated. Visit www.onstar.com for
coverage maps.

Turn-by-Turn Navigation
1. Push Q to connect to a live
Advisor.
2. Request directions.
3. Directions are downloaded to the
vehicle.
4. Follow the voice-guided
commands.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (3,1)

OnStar
Using Voice Commands
During a Planned Route
Cancel Route
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
Say “Cancel route.” System
responds: “Would you like to
cancel route directions to your
destination?”
2. Say “Yes.” System responds:
“OK, route canceled.”
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Route Preview
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Route Preview.” System
responds with the next three
maneuvers.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.

Repeat
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Repeat.” System responds
with the last direction given, then
responds with “OnStar ready,”
then a tone.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.
Get My Destination
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready,” then a tone.
2. Say “Get my destination.”
System responds with miles to
the destination, then responds
with “OnStar ready,” then a tone.
3. Say “Goodbye.” Exits voice
commands.

14-3

Other Navigation Services
Available from OnStar
OnStar eNav: Allows subscribers
to send destinations from Google
Maps and MapQuest.com to
their Turn-by-Turn Navigation or
screen-based navigation system.
When ready, the directions will be
downloaded to the vehicle.
Destination Download: Push Q,
then request the Advisor to
download directions to the
navigation system in the vehicle.
After the call ends, push the “Go”
button on the navigation screen to
begin driving directions.
Destinations can also be
downloaded on the go. For
information about eNav,
Destination Download, and
coverage maps visit
www.onstar.com.

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14-4

Black plate (4,1)

OnStar

Connections

End a Call

OnStar Hands-Free Calling allows
calls to be made and received from
the vehicle. The vehicle can also
be controlled from a cell phone
through the OnStar RemoteLink
mobile app. See www.onstar.com
for coverage maps.

Push X. System responds: “Call
ended.”

Hands-Free Calling

Store a Name Tag for Speed
Dialing
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”

1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”

2. Say “Store.” System responds:
“Please say the number you
would like to store.”

2. Say “Dial.” System responds:
“Please say the name or number
to call.”

3. Say the entire number without
pausing. System responds:
“Please say the name tag.”

3. Say the entire number without
pausing, including a “1” and the
area code. System responds:
“OK calling.”

4. Pick a name tag. “System
responds: ”About to store . Does that sound OK?”

Retrieve My Number
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “My Number.” System
responds: “Your OnStar
Hands-Free Calling number is.”

5. Say “Yes” or “No” to try again.
System responds: “OK, storing
.”

Place a Call Using a Stored
Number
1. Push X. System responds:
“OnStar ready.”
2. Say “Call .” System
responds: “OK, calling
.”

Verify Minutes and Expiration
Push X and say “minutes” then
“verify” to check how many minutes
remain and their expiration date.

OnStar Mobile App
With an iPhone® or
Android™-based mobile device,
an OnStar RemoteLink mobile app
can be downloaded. The vehicle
can be remote started, if equipped,
or the doors can be unlocked from
anywhere there is cell phone
service. It can also check the fuel
level, tire pressure, and oil life.
It can connect to an OnStar Advisor
anytime. For OnStar mobile app
compatibility or further information,
see www.onstar.com.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (5,1)

OnStar

Diagnostics
OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics will
perform a vehicle check every
month. It will check the engine,
transmission, antilock brakes, and
major vehicle systems. It also
checks the tire pressures, if the
vehicle is equipped with the Tire
Pressure Monitoring System. If a
diagnostics check is needed
between e-mails, push Q, and an
Advisor can run a check.

OnStar Additional
Information
Transferring Service
Push Q to request account transfer
eligibility information. The Advisor
can assist in canceling or removing
account information. If OnStar
receives information that vehicle
ownership has changed, OnStar
may send a voice message to the
vehicle, requesting updated account
information.

Reactivation for Subsequent
Owners
Push Q and follow the prompts to
speak to an Advisor as soon as
possible after acquiring the vehicle.
The Advisor will update vehicle
records and will explain the OnStar
service offers and options available.

14-5

How OnStar Service Works
Automatic Crash Response,
Emergency Services, Crisis Assist,
Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle
Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock,
Roadside Assistance, Turn-by-Turn
Navigation, and Hands-Free Calling
are available on most vehicles. Not
all OnStar services are available
everywhere or on all vehicles. For
more information, a full description
of OnStar services, system
limitations, and OnStar terms and
conditions, see www.onstar.com
(U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada);
contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR
(1‐888‐466‐7827) or TTY
1‐877‐248‐2080; or push Q to
speak with an Advisor. OnStar
services require a vehicle electrical
system, wireless service, and GPS
satellite technologies to be available
and operating for features to
function properly. These systems
may not operate if the battery is
discharged or disconnected.

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14-6

Black plate (6,1)

OnStar

OnStar service cannot work unless
your vehicle is in a place where
OnStar has an agreement with a
wireless service provider for service
in that area, and the wireless
service provider has coverage,
network capacity, reception, and
technology compatible with OnStar’s
service. Service involving location
information about the vehicle cannot
work unless GPS signals are
available, unobstructed, and
compatible with the OnStar
hardware. OnStar service may not
work if the OnStar equipment is not
properly installed or it has not been
properly maintained. If equipment
or software is added, connected,
or modified, OnStar service may
not work. Other problems beyond
OnStar’s control may prevent
service such as hills, tall buildings,
tunnels, weather, electrical system
design and architecture of the
vehicle, damage to the vehicle in a
crash, or wireless phone network
congestion or jamming.

See Radio Frequency Statement on
page 13‑16 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC)
rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.

Services for People with
Disabilities
Advisors provide services to help
subscribers with physical disabilities
and medical conditions.
Push

Q for help with:

Locating a gas station with an
attendant to pump gas.

Finding a hotel, restaurant, etc.,
that meets accessibility needs.

Providing directions to the
closest hospital or pharmacy in
urgent situations.

TTY Users
OnStar has the ability to
communicate to the deaf,
hard‐of‐hearing, or speech‐impaired
customers while in the vehicle. The

available dealer‐installed TTY
system can provide in-vehicle
access to all of the OnStar services,
except Virtual Advisor and OnStar
Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation.

Onstar.com
The website provides access to
account information, manages the
OnStar subscription, and allows
viewing of videos of each service.
Get subscription plan pricing
and sign up for OnStar Vehicle
Diagnostics. Click on the “My
Account” tab on the home page.

OnStar Personal Identification
Number (PIN)
A PIN is needed to access some of
the OnStar services, like Remote
Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle
Assistance. You will be prompted
to change the PIN the first time
when speaking with an Advisor. To
change the OnStar PIN, call OnStar
and provide the Advisor with the
current number.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

OnStar
Warranty
OnStar equipment may be
warranted as part of the new-vehicle
limited warranty. The manufacturer
of the vehicle furnishes detailed
warranty information.

Global Positioning
System (GPS)
.

Languages
The vehicle can be programmed
to respond in French or Spanish.
Push Q and ask an Advisor.
Advisors can speak French or
Spanish.

Potential Issues
Some OnStar services are disabled
after five days. OnStar cannot
perform Remote Door Unlock or
Stolen Vehicle Assistance after the
vehicle has been off continuously
for five days. After five days, OnStar
can contact Roadside Assistance
and a locksmith to help gain access
to the vehicle.

Obstruction of the GPS can
occur in a large city with tall
buildings; in parking garages;
around airports; in tunnels,
underpasses, or parking
garages; or in an area with very
dense trees. If GPS signals are
not available, the OnStar system
should still operate to call
OnStar. However, OnStar could
have difficulty identifying the
exact location.
In emergency situations, OnStar
can use the last stored GPS
location to send to emergency
responders.
A temporary loss of GPS can
cause loss of the ability to send
a Turn-by-Turn Navigation route.
The Advisor may give a verbal
route or may ask for a call back
after the vehicle is driven into an
open area.

14-7

Cellular and GPS Antennas
Avoid placing items over or near the
antenna to prevent blocking cellular
and GPS signal reception. Cellular
reception is required for OnStar to
send remote signals to the vehicle.

Unable to Connect to OnStar
Message
If there is limited cellular coverage
or the cellular network has reached
maximum capacity, this message
may come on. Push Q to try the
call again or try again after driving a
few miles into another cellular area.

Vehicle and Power Issues
OnStar services require a vehicle
electrical system, wireless service,
and GPS satellite technologies to be
available and operating for features
to function properly. These systems
may not operate if the battery is
discharged or disconnected.

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

14-8

OnStar

Add-on Electrical Equipment
The OnStar system is integrated
into the electrical architecture of the
vehicle. Do not add any electrical
equipment. See Add-On Electrical
Equipment on page 9‑40. Added
electrical equipment may interfere
with the operation of the OnStar
system and cause it to not operate.

Privacy
The complete OnStar Privacy
Statement may be found at
www.onstar.com. Privacy-sensitive
users of wireless communications
are cautioned that the privacy of any
information sent via wireless cellular
communications cannot be assured.
Third parties may unlawfully
intercept or access transmissions
and private communications without
consent.

Black plate (8,1)

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Black plate (1,1)

INDEX

A
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-3
Accessory Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Add-On Electrical
Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Additional Information,
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Air Cleaner/Filter, Engine . . . . . 10-13
Air Filter, Passenger
Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Air Intake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Air Vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Airbag System
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-31
How Does an Airbag
Restrain? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24
Passenger Sensing
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-26
What Makes an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24

Airbag System (cont'd)
What Will You See after an
Airbag Inflates? . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-24
When Should an Airbag
Inflate? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-23
Where Are the Airbags? . . . . . .3-21
Airbags
Adding Equipment to the
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-30
Passenger Status Indicator . . . 5-11
Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Servicing Airbag-Equipped
Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-30
System Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-19
Alarm System
Anti-theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Antenna
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-13
Anti-theft
Alarm System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

i-1

Antilock Brake
System (ABS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-28
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Appearance Care
Exterior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-80
Interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Armrest
Front Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Assistance Program,
Roadside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Audio
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-19
Audio Players . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
CD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-13
Audio System
Fixed Mast Antenna . . . . . . . . . .7-13
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-12
Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . . . 7-2

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i-2

Black plate (2,1)

INDEX

Automatic
Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24
Transmission Fluid . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Automatic Transmission
Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-25
Shift Lock Control
Function Check . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Auxiliary
Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-16

B
Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-23
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74
Load Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Power Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7
Blade Replacement, Wiper . . . 10-26
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . . 7-19, 7-21, 7-25
Bluetooth Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-19

Brake
System Warning Light . . . . . . . .5-16
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-21
Antilock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-28
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-29
Braking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Break-In, New Vehicle . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
License Plate Lamps . . . . . . . 10-31
Taillamps, Turn Signal,
Stoplamps, and
Back-up Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52

C
Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
California
Fuel Requirements . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Perchlorate Materials
Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Canadian Vehicle Owners . . . . . . . . iii
Capacities and
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Carbon Monoxide
Engine Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-22
Liftgate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Winter Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Cargo
Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Cautions, Danger, and
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-13
Central Locking System . . . . . . . . 2-7

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Black plate (3,1)

INDEX
Chains, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Charging System Light . . . . . . . . 5-12
Check
Engine Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Ignition
Transmission Lock . . . . . . . . 10-25
Child Restraints
Infants and Young
Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-34
Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . .3-39
Older Children . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-32
Securing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45, 3-48
Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-36
Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Cleaning
Exterior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-80
Interior Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-83
Climate Control Systems . . . . . . . 8-1
Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-1
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Cluster, Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Clutch, Hydraulic . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Code Set Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15
Collision Damage Repair . . . . . . 13-9
Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Load . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Compass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Compressor Kit, Tire
Sealant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Connections, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . 14-4
Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Convex Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-12
Coolant
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Engine Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Courtesy Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Courtesy Transportation
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8
Cover
Cargo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

i-3

Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-33
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Customer Assistance . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
Offices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-3
Text Telephone (TTY)
Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13-4
Customer Information
Service Publications
Ordering Information . . . . . . 13-12
Customer Satisfaction
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-1

D
Damage Repair, Collision . . . . . . 13-9
Danger, Warnings, and
Cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Data Recorders, Event . . . . . . . 13-14
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Indicator Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Defensive Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Devices, Auxiliary . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-16

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

i-4

Black plate (4,1)

INDEX

Diagnostics, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Distracted Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Dome Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Door
Ajar Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Ajar Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Central Locking System . . . . . . . 2-7
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Drive Belt Routing, Engine . . . . . 12-3
Driver Information
Center (DIC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-23
Driving
Better Fuel Economy . . . . . . . . . . 9-2
Defensive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Drunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
For Better Fuel Economy . . . . .1-21
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . 9-7
If the Vehicle is Stuck . . . . . . . . . . 9-9
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Off-Road Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Vehicle Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Wet Roads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Winter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7

E
Electrical Equipment,
Add-On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-40
Electrical System
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36
Overload . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Emergency, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Engine
Air Cleaner/Filter . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Check and Service Engine
Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Compartment Overview . . . . . . .10-6
Coolant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-16
Coolant Temperature
Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Cooling System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-15
Drive Belt Routing . . . . . . . . . . . .12-3
Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-22
Heater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-18
Oil Life System . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Overheating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-19

Engine (cont'd)
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Reduced Power Light . . . . . . . . .5-21
Running While Parked . . . . . . . .9-23
Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3, 9-17
Event Data Recorders . . . . . . . . 13-14
Extender, Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Exterior Lamp Controls . . . . . . . . . 6-1

F
Filter,
Engine Air Cleaner . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Flashers, Hazard Warning . . . . . . 6-4
Flat Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67
Floor Mats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-86
Fluid
Automatic Transmission . . . . 10-12
Brakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-22
Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20
Fog Lamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Folding Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Front Fog Lamp
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22

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Black plate (5,1)

INDEX
Front Seat Armrest . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6
Front Seats
Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-35
Additives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Economy Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-21
Economy, Driving for Better . . . . 9-2
Filling a Portable Fuel
Container . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Filling the Tank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-37
Foreign Countries . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Gasoline Specifications . . . . . . .9-36
Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . .5-20
Recommended . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-35
Requirements, California . . . . .9-36
Fuses
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Fuses and Circuit
Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-33
Instrument Panel Fuse
Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-36

G
Gasoline
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-36
Gauges
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Warning Lights and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
General Information
Service and Maintenance . . . . . 11-1
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-2
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
GM Mobility Reimbursement
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5

H
Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . 6-4
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2

i-5

Headlamps
Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-27
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Daytime Running Lamps
(DRL) Indicator Light . . . . . . . .5-22
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . .5-21
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2
Lamps On Reminder . . . . . . . . .5-22
Heated Front Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Heated Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13
Heater
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-18
Heating and Air Conditioning . . . 8-1
High-Beam On Light . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Highway Hypnosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Hill and Mountain Roads . . . . . . . . 9-7
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-4
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Hydraulic Clutch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13

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i-6

Black plate (6,1)

INDEX

Ignition Positions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-15
Ignition Transmission Lock
Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-25
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Indicator
Code Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Owner Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Infants and Young Children,
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-34
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
Instrument Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-8
Instrument Panel
Storage Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii

Labeling, Tire Sidewall . . . . . . . . 10-38
Lamps
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5
Daytime Running (DRL) . . . . . . . 6-2
Dome . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Exterior Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Headlamps, Front Turn
Signal, and Parking
Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-28
License Plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-31
Malfunction Indicator . . . . . . . . .5-13
On Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
LATCH System
Replacing Parts after a
Crash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-45
LATCH, Lower Anchors and
Tethers for Children . . . . . . . . . . 3-39
Liftgate
Carbon Monoxide . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-10
Lighter, Cigarette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Lighting
Illumination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-5

J
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-74

K
Keyless Entry
Remote (RKE) System . . . . . . . . 2-3
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2

Lights
Airbag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Antilock Brake System
(ABS) Warning . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Brake System Warning . . . . . . .5-16
Charging System . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Daytime Running
Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
Door Ajar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-23
Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning . . . . . . .5-19
Engine Oil Pressure . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-2
Front Fog Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-22
High-Beam On . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
High/Low Beam Changer . . . . . . 6-2
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-21
Low Fuel Warning . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Reduced Engine Power . . . . . .5-21
Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . .5-10
Service Vehicle Soon . . . . . . . . .5-15
Speed Sensitive Power
Steering (SSPS) Warning . . .5-17
StabiliTrak® OFF . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (7,1)

INDEX
Lights (cont'd)
Traction Control System
(TCS)/StabiliTrak® . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Traction Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Up-Shift . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-17
Load Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Locks
Automatic Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Central Locking System . . . . . . . 2-7
Delayed Locking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7
Door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Loss of Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5
Low Fuel Warning Light . . . . . . . . 5-20
Lower Anchors and Tethers
for Children (LATCH
System) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-39

M
Maintenance
Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15
Maintenance Schedule
Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-12
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . 5-13
Manual Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-13

Manual Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-25
Manual Transmission . . . . . . . . . . 9-26
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Manual Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Messages
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Mirrors
Convex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-12
Folding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Heated . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Manual Rearview . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Monitor System, Tire
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-46

N
Navigation
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . 9-15

O
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Off-Road
Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-5

i-7

Oil
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-9
Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-12
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-20
Older Children, Restraints . . . . . 3-32
Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
OnStar®
Additional Information . . . . . . . .14-5
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-4
Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-5
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-1
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
System, In Brief . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-22
Operation, Infotainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-5
Ordering
Service Publications . . . . . . . . 13-12
Outlets
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Overheating, Engine . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Overview, Infotainment
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2, 7-4
Overview, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Owner Manual Indicator . . . . . . . 5-15

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

i-8

Black plate (8,1)

INDEX

P
Park
Shifting Into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20
Shifting Out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-21
Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-22
Brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-29
Brake and P (Park)
Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . 10-25
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . .9-22
Passenger Airbag Status
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
Passenger Compartment Air
Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-4
Passenger Sensing System . . . 3-26
Perchlorate Materials
Requirements, California . . . . . 10-3
Personalization
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Phone
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . 7-19, 7-21, 7-25
Power
Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-13
Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5
Protection, Battery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

Power (cont'd)
Reduced Engine Light . . . . . . . .5-21
Retained Accessory (RAP) . . .9-19
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15
Pregnancy, Using Safety
Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Privacy
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . 13-15
Program
Courtesy Transportation . . . . . .13-8
Proposition 65 Warning,
California . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-2

R
Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) . . . . . . . . 13-15
Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
Radios
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9
Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-12
Satellite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-6
Rear Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8

Rear Window Washer/Wiper . . . . 5-4
Rearview Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
Recommended
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-35
Recommended Fluids and
Lubricants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
Records
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-15
Recreational Vehicle
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Reduced Engine Power
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-21
Reimbursement Program,
GM Mobility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Remote Vehicle Start . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Replacement Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . 10-32
Replacement Parts
Airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-31
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-14
Replacing Airbag System . . . . . . 3-31

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (9,1)

INDEX
Replacing LATCH System
Parts after a Crash . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45
Replacing Safety Belt
System Parts after a Crash . . . 3-18
Reporting Safety Defects
Canadian Government . . . . . . 13-13
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Restraints
Where to Put . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-38
Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-19
Roads
Driving, Wet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Roadside Assistance
Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-5
Roof
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-17
Rotation, Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Routing, Engine Drive Belt . . . . . 12-3
Running the Vehicle While
Parked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-23

S
Safety Belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-18
Extender . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-17
How to Wear Safety Belts
Properly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Lap-Shoulder Belt . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12
Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-10
Replacing after a Crash . . . . . .3-18
Use During Pregnancy . . . . . . . .3-17
Safety Defects Reporting
Canadian Government . . . . . . 13-13
General Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-14
U.S. Government . . . . . . . . . . . 13-13
Safety Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Safety System Check . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
Scheduling Appointments . . . . . . 13-7
Sealant Kit, Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Seats
Adjustment, Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
Heated Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Rear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
Reclining Seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

i-9

Securing Child
Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-45, 3-48
Security
OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Service
Accessories and
Modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-3
Doing Your Own Work . . . . . . . .10-4
Engine Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-13
Maintenance Records . . . . . . .11-15
Maintenance, General
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-1
Parts Identification Label . . . . .12-1
Publications Ordering
Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-12
Scheduling Appointments . . . . .13-7
Vehicle Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Servicing the Airbag . . . . . . . . . . . 3-30
Shift Lock Control Function
Check, Automatic
Transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Shifting
Into Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20
Out of Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-21

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

i-10

Black plate (10,1)

INDEX

Signals, Turn and
Lane-Change . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Spare Tire
Compact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Specifications and
Capacities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Speed Sensitive Power
Steering (SSPS) Warning
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Speedometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
StabiliTrak
OFF Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-31
Start Vehicle, Remote . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Starter Switch Check . . . . . . . . . 10-24
Starting the Engine . . . . . . . 1-3, 9-17
Steering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-4
Wheel Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Wheel Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Storage
Load Compartment . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1

Storage Areas
Cargo Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Glove Box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Instrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . 10-66
Stuck Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-9
Sun Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-17
Symbols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
System
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1

T
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Taillamps
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30
Text Telephone (TTY) Users . . . 13-4
Theft-Deterrent Systems . . . . . . . 2-11
Immobilizer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-5

Tires
Buying New Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-52
Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Changing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-67
Compact Spare . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Designations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
If a Tire Goes Flat . . . . . . . . . . 10-57
Inflation Monitor System . . . . 10-47
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-19
Pressure Monitor System . . . 10-46
Rotation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-50
Sealant and
Compressor Kit . . . . . . . . . . . 10-59
Sealant and Compressor
Kit, Storing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-66
Sidewall Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . 10-38
Terminology and
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-41
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

Black plate (11,1)

INDEX
Tires (cont'd)
Wheel Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
Wheel Replacement . . . . . . . . 10-56
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
Towing
General Information . . . . . . . . . .9-39
Recreational Vehicle . . . . . . . . 10-77
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Traction
Control System (TCS) . . . . . . . .9-29
Control System (TCS)/
StabiliTrak® Light . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Off Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-18
Transmission
Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24
Fluid, Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-12
Fluid, Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Transportation Program,
Courtesy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-8
Trip Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9

Trunk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Turn and Lane-Change
Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Turn Signal
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-30

U
Uniform Tire Quality
Grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Up-Shift Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-17
Using This Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv

V
Vehicle
Canadian Owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .iii
Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-3
Identification
Number (VIN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-1
Load Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-10
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27
Personalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-27

i-11

Vehicle (cont'd)
Remote Start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Service Soon Light . . . . . . . . . . .5-15
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-77
Vehicle Care
Storing the Tire Sealant
and Compressor Kit . . . . . . . 10-66
Tire Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-44
Ventilation, Air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3
Visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-16

W
Warning
Brake System Light . . . . . . . . . . .5-16
Warning Lights, Gauges, and
Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iv
Cautions and Danger . . . . . . . . . . . .iv
Hazard Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-4
Washer Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-20

Chevrolet Sonic Owner Manual - 2012 - CRC - 11/9/11

i-12

INDEX

Wheels
Alignment and Tire
Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
Different Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-54
Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-56
When It Is Time for New
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-51
Where to Put the Restraint . . . . 3-38
Windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-14
Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-14
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-15
Windshield
Wiper/Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
Winter
Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-7
Wiper Blade Replacement . . . . 10-26
Wipers
Rear Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4

Black plate (12,1)

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