Restraint Systems:
Detailed information on safety belts (proper use, special considerations for pregnancy), airbags (warnings and limitations), child restraint systems (LATCH, proper placement), and comfort guides.
Vehicle Controls:
Covers operation of windows, door locks, remote keyless entry (if equipped), trunk release, theft deterrent systems (Passlock, Content Theft-Deterrent), vehicle customization, ignition positions, starting procedures, parking brake, shifting (automatic transaxle), tilt wheel, turn signals, exterior and interior lighting, mirrors.
Comfort And Audio:
Explains operation of climate control systems (dual zone comfortemp, A/C, heating, ventilation, defogging/defrosting), rear window defogger, and various audio systems (AM/FM stereo with cassette, CD player, RDS, automatic tone control, steering wheel controls).
Driving And Road Safety:
Provides guidance on defensive driving, controlling the vehicle (braking, traction control for V6), driving in various conditions (rain, night, city, freeway), highway hypnosis, hill driving, winter driving, and recreational towing (vehicle towing, trailer towing, loading).
Troubleshooting And Emergencies:
Covers on-road problems such as hazard warning flashers, jump starting, towing procedures, engine overheating, cooling system, flat tire procedures (changing, compact spare), and getting unstuck (sand, mud, ice, snow).
Maintenance And Care:
Details service information, fuel requirements (including foreign countries, portable containers), under-hood checks (engine oil, air filters, coolant, power steering fluid, washer fluid), brake system, battery, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement, tire care, and interior/exterior appearance care.
Maintenance Schedule:
Outlines scheduled maintenance services, owner checks and services, periodic maintenance inspections, recommended fluids and lubricants, and provides a section for maintaining a maintenance record.
Safety Procedures:
Proper wearing of safety belts, child restraint installation and use, safe operation of airbags, safe starting and parking procedures, and emergency procedures.
Operational Procedures:
Starting the engine, shifting gears, operating windows and locks, using the remote keyless entry, accessing the trunk, operating lights and mirrors, and using comfort and audio controls.
Maintenance Procedures:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, power steering, washer fluid), replacing bulbs and wiper blades, tire pressure checks, and general vehicle cleaning and appearance care.
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Guidance for common on-road issues like jump-starting, changing a flat tire, dealing with an overheating engine, and what to do when stuck.
Depth:
Owner-focused with emphasis on safe operation, basic maintenance, feature utilization, and simple troubleshooting. It does not delve into in-depth mechanical repair procedures but provides essential owner information.
Audio Systems:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette, optional AM/FM stereo with CD player, both with Radio Data System (RDS) and Automatic Tone Control. Steering wheel audio controls were optional.
Features:
Traction control (on applicable models), ABS.
Onstar:
OnStar system available as an option, providing communication and emergency services.
Remote Keyless Entry:
Available, allows locking/unlocking doors and trunk release remotely.
Homelink:
HomeLink transmitter available as an option for garage door and gate operation.
Driver Information Center:
Optional Driver Information Center (DIC) provides trip information, fuel economy, and vehicle status messages.
Oil Change:
Refer to the maintenance schedule for specific intervals based on driving conditions (e.g., every 3,000-7,500 miles or as indicated by the oil life monitor system).
Tire Rotation:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles.
Transmission Fluid:
Check as per maintenance schedule, often at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals for fluid change. Refer to manual for specific type and procedure.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (API Certified).
Engine Coolant:
Dex-Cool (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant. GM Part Number 12346390 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or Dexron VI when available and specified for the transmission). GM Part Number 88900721 or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid (e.g., GM Part Number 12345866) or equivalent Dexron ATF (check manual for exact specification).
Common Problems 2002 Impala:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3800 V6), power steering pump noise/leaks, transmission issues (slipping, torque converter problems), ignition coil failures, window regulator failures, heater core leaks, fuel pump failures.
