GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Automatic Transmission

Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine will not start in any other position -- that is a safety feature. To restart when you are already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) 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. Your vehicle will not start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that is a safety feature.

  1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. Then, let go of the key; the engine will start automatically. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it. Operate the engine and transmission gently until the oil warms up and lubricates all moving parts.
  2. Your vehicle has a Computer-Controlled Cranking System. This feature assists in starting the engine and protects the electrical system. If the ignition key is turned to the START position, and then released when the engine begins cranking, the engine will continue cranking until the vehicle starts or until it exceeds the maximum cranking time allowed, approximately 15 seconds to prevent cranking motor damage. To prevent starter-motor gear damage, this system also prevents cranking if the engine is already running. The engine cranking can be stopped by turning the ignition switch to the ACCESSORY or OFF position.

  3. If your engine will not start, or starts but then stops, it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you turn the key to START. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing.

Notice: The engine is designed to work with the electronics in the vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer/retailer. If you do not, the engine might not perform properly. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.