Starting and Operating Chevrolet Equinox
New Vehicle Break-In
Ignition Positions
Starting the Engine
Stop/Start System
Winter Cover
Engine Heater
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
Shifting Into Park
Shifting out of Park
Parking over Things That Burn
Extended Parking
Starting and Operating Chevrolet Equinox
New Vehicle Break-In.
Caution.
The vehicle does not need an elaborate break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines:.
● Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or slow, for the first.
80. 0 km (500 mi). Do not make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to brake or slow the vehicle.
● Avoid making hard stops for the first.
30. 0 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.
● Do not tow a trailer during break-in.
See Trailer Towing for the trailer towing capabilities of the vehicle and more information.
Following break-in, engine speed and load can be gradually increased.
On new vehicles, the various mechanical and electrical systems experience a “break-in” period during the first 6 400 km (4,000 mi) of routine driving. As the vehicle is driven, the mechanical systems adjust to provide optimal fuel economy and transmission shift performance.
Electrical systems will adapt and calibrate during the break-in period. A one-time occurrence of clicks and similar vehicle noises is normal during this process.
Normal driving charges the vehicle’s battery to achieve the best operation of the vehicle, including fuel economy and the Stop/Start System. See Stop/Start System.
Ignition Positions.
The vehicle has an electronic keyless ignition with pushbutton start.
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter must be in the vehicle for the system to operate. If the pushbutton start is not working, the vehicle may be near a strong radio antenna signal causing interference to the Keyless Access system. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation.
Stopping the Engine/Off (No Indicator Lights).
When the vehicle is stopped, press ENGINE.
START/STOP once to turn the engine off.
To shift out of P (Park), the vehicle must be on and the brake pedal must be applied.
If the vehicle is in P (Park), the ignition will turn off, and Retained Accessory Power.
(RAP) will remain active. See Retained Accessory Power (RAP) .
If the vehicle is not in P (Park), the ignition will return to ACC/ACCESSORY and display the message SHIFT TO PARK in the Driver.
Information Center (DIC). When the vehicle is shifted into P (Park), the ignition system will turn off.
The vehicle may have an electric steering column lock. The lock is activated when the vehicle is turned off and either front door is opened. A sound may be heard as the lock actuates or releases. The steering column lock may not release with the wheels turned off center. If this happens, the vehicle may not start. Move the steering wheel from left to right while attempting to start the vehicle. If this does not work, the vehicle needs service.
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.
If the vehicle must be turned off in an emergency:.
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.
3. Come to a complete stop. Shift to.
P (Park) and turn the ignition off.
4. Set the electric parking brake. See Electric Parking Brake.
⚠ 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 turned off while driving, press and hold ENGINE START/STOP for longer than two seconds, or press twice in five seconds.
ACC/ACCESSORY (Amber Indicator Light).
This mode allows you to use some electrical accessories when the engine is off.
With the ignition off, pressing the button one time without the brake pedal applied will place the ignition system in ACC/ACCESSORY.
The ignition will switch from ACC/ACCESSORY to OFF after five minutes to prevent battery rundown.
ON/RUN/START (Green Indicator Light).
This mode is for driving and starting. With the ignition off and the brake pedal applied, pressing the button once will place the ignition system in ON/RUN/START. Once engine cranking begins, release the button.
Engine cranking will continue until the engine starts. See Starting the Engine.
The ignition will then remain in ON/RUN.
Service Mode.
This power mode is available for service and diagnostics, and to verify the proper operation of the malfunction indicator lamp as may be required for emission inspection purposes. With the vehicle off and the brake pedal not applied, pressing and holding the button for more than five seconds will place the vehicle in Service Mode. The instruments and audio systems will operate as they do in ON/RUN, but the vehicle will not be able to be driven. The engine will not start in.
Service Mode. Press the button again to turn the vehicle off.
Starting the Engine.
Move the shift lever to P (Park) or N (Neutral). To restart the engine when the vehicle is already moving, use N (Neutral) only.
Caution.
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.
Caution.
If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Any resulting damage would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Engine Starting Procedure.
1. With the Keyless Access system, the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter must be in the vehicle. Press ENGINE START/STOP with the brake pedal applied. When the engine begins cranking, let go of the button.
The idle speed will go down as the engine gets warm. Do not race the engine immediately after starting it.
If the RKE transmitter is not in the vehicle, if there is interference, or if the.
RKE battery is low, a Driver Information.
Center (DIC) will display a message. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation.
Caution.
Cranking the engine for long periods of time, by trying to start the engine immediately after cranking has ended, can overheat and damage the cranking motor, and drain the battery. Wait at least 15 seconds between each try, to let the cranking motor cool down.
2. If the engine does not start after five to.
10. seconds, especially in very cold weather (below −18 °C or 0 °F), 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 press ENGINE START/STOP. Wait at least.
15. seconds between each try, to allow the cranking motor to cool down. When the engine starts, release the accelerator.
If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine. 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.
Stop/Start System.
This vehicle has a Stop/Start system to shut off the engine to help conserve fuel. It has components designed for the increased number of starts.
⚠ Warning.
The automatic engine Stop/Start feature causes the engine to shut off while the vehicle is still on. Do not exit the vehicle before shifting to P (Park). The vehicle may restart and move unexpectedly.
Always shift to P (Park), and then turn the ignition off before exiting the vehicle.
Auto Engine Stop/Start.
When the brakes are applied and the vehicle is at a complete stop, the engine may turn off. When stopped, the tachometer displays AUTO STOP. See Tachometer. When the brake pedal is released or the accelerator pedal is pressed, the engine will restart.
To maintain vehicle performance, other conditions may cause the engine to automatically restart before the brake pedal is released.
Auto Stops may not occur and/or auto restarts may occur because:.
● The climate control settings require the engine to be running to cool or heat the vehicle interior.
● The vehicle battery needs to charge.
● The vehicle battery has recently been disconnected.
● Minimum vehicle speed has not been reached since the last Auto Stop.
● The accelerator pedal is pressed.
● The engine or transmission is not at the required operating temperature.
● The outside temperature is not in the required operating range.
● The vehicle is shifted out of D (Drive).
● Certain driver modes have been selected.
● The vehicle is on a steep hill or grade.
● The driver door has been opened or driver seat belt has been unbuckled.
● The hood has been opened.
● The Auto Stop has reached the maximum allowed time.
Auto Stop Disable Switch.
The automatic engine Stop/Start feature can be disabled and enabled by pressing h.
Auto Stop/Start is enabled each time you start the vehicle.
When thehindicator is illuminated, the system is enabled.
Winter Cover.
If equipped, the winter cover can be used to enhance heater performance in extremely cold conditions below −0 °C (32 °F). The winter cover installs over the grille and restricts airflow to the engine compartment.
Usage Guidelines.
The winter cover should only be used while operating the vehicle in extremely cold temperatures or in heavy snow for extended periods. In these temperatures, the vehicle does not need a large amount of air to properly cool the engine. When more airflow is required to cool the vehicle, the winter cover should not be used. The following usage guidelines will allow adequate airflow for proper radiator and air cooler performance:.
● Do not use the winter cover if towing a trailer. The vehicle may overheat if the radiator is covered while towing.
● Do not modify the cover. The winter cover does not cover some sections of the front of the vehicle to provide enough airflow.
● Keep the underside of the winter cover as clean as possible. Remove monthly or as necessary and clean away dust and debris.
● Do not use the winter cover above −0 °C (32 °F).
Use only a mild soap to clean. Do not use harsh soap, strong detergents, or vinyl protectant/sealant type products as they may damage the special finish. Allow the winter cover to dry completely before reinstalling.
Installation Instructions.
When first trying to fit the cover, it may appear to be undersized but will stretch during installation to ensure a tight fit. The initial installation of the cover is best performed when the winter cover is warm.
1. Center grille cover and make sure that it is positioned correctly.
2. Push plastic hooks back to engage grille slats.
3. If equipped with license plate bracket pull it toward the front of the vehicle and install the cover behind the bottom edge of the bracket.
4. Repeat for all hooks to fully engage cover to grille.
5. Make sure all clips remain engaged during installation. Cover should be stretched to a tight fit when properly installed.
Engine Heater.
⚠ Warning.
Do not plug in the engine block heater while the vehicle is parked in a garage or under a carport. Property damage or personal injury may result. Always park the vehicle in a clear open area away from buildings or structures.
The engine heater, if available, can help in cold weather conditions at or below.
−18 °C (0 °F) for easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Plug in the engine heater at least four hours before starting the vehicle. An internal thermostat in the plug end of the cord will prevent engine coolant heater operation at temperatures above −18 °C (0 °F).
To Use the Engine Heater.
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Remove the heater cord from the rear compartment.
3. Check the heater cord for damage. If it is damaged, do not use it. See your dealer for a replacement. Inspect the cord for damage yearly.
4. Plug the cord into the receptacle in the front fascia.
5. Plug the other end of the cord into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
⚠ Warning.
Improper use of the heater cord or an extension cord can damage the cord and may result in overheating and fire.
● Plug the cord into a three-prong electrical utility receptacle that is protected by a ground fault detection function. An ungrounded outlet could cause an electric shock.
● Use a weatherproof, heavy-duty,.
15. amp-rated extension cord if needed.
Failure to use the recommended extension cord in good operating condition, or using a damaged heater or extension cord, could make it overheat and cause a fire, property damage, electric shock, and injury.
● Do not operate the vehicle with the heater cord permanently attached to the vehicle. Possible heater cord and thermostat damage could occur.
● While in use, do not let the heater cord touch vehicle parts or sharp edges. Never close the hood on the heater cord.
● Before starting the vehicle, unplug the cord, reattach the cover to the plug, and securely fasten the cord. Keep the cord away from any moving parts.
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).
When the ignition is turned from on to off, the following features (if equipped) will continue to function for up to 10 minutes, or until the driver door is opened. These features will also work when the ignition is in RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY:.
● Infotainment System.
● Power Windows (during RAP this functionality will be lost when any door is opened).
● Sunroof (during RAP this functionality will be lost when any door is opened).
● Auxiliary Power Outlet.
● Audio System.
● OnStar System.
Shifting Into Park.
⚠ 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. If you are pulling a trailer, see Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips.
To shift into P (Park):.
1. Hold the brake pedal down and set the parking brake. See Electric Parking Brake for more information.
2. Hold the button on the shift lever and push the lever toward the front of the vehicle into P (Park).
3. Turn the ignition off.
Leaving the Vehicle with the Engine Running.
⚠ Warning.
It can be dangerous to leave the vehicle with the engine running. It could overheat and catch fire.
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. 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. If you are towing a trailer, see Driving Characteristics and Towing Tips.
If you have to leave the vehicle with the engine running, the vehicle must be in.
P (Park) and the parking brake set.
Release the button and check that the shift lever cannot be moved out of P (Park).
Torque Lock.
Torque lock is when the weight of the vehicle puts too much force on the parking pawl in the transmission. This happens when parking on a hill and shifting the transmission into P (Park) is not done properly and then it is difficult to shift out of P (Park). To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into P (Park). To find out how, see “Shifting Into Park” listed previously.
If torque lock does occur, the vehicle may need to be pushed uphill by another vehicle to relieve the parking pawl pressure, so you can shift out of P (Park).
Shifting out of Park.
To shift out of P (Park):.
1. Apply the brake pedal.
2. Turn the ignition on.
3. Press the shift lever button.
4. Move the shift lever.
If you still are 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.
If you still cannot move the shift lever from P (Park), see your dealer for service.
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.
Extended Parking.
It is best not to park with the vehicle running. If the vehicle is left running, be sure it will not move and there is adequate ventilation.
See Shifting Into Park and Engine Exhaust.
If the vehicle is left parked and running with the RKE transmitter outside the vehicle, it will continue to run for up to 15 minutes.
If the vehicle is left parked and running with the RKE transmitter inside the vehicle, it will continue to run for up to 30 minutes.
The vehicle could turn off sooner if it is parked on a hill, due to lack of available fuel.
The timer will reset if the vehicle is taken out of P (Park) while it is running.
