Your vehicle may have this feature. In very cold weather, 0°C (-18°F) or colder, the engine coolant heater can provide easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At temperatures above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not required.

1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. On the 2.2L L4 ECOTEC™ engine, the engine coolant heater cord is located in front of the coolant surge tank on the passenger's side. On the 3400 V6 engine, the engine coolant heater cord is located near the engine air cleaner/filter. See Engine Compartment Overview for more information on location.
3. Plug the cord into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.

Caution: 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 don't, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your dealer in the area where you'll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.