2002 Oldsmobile Alero Owner's Manual
Year:
2002
Make:
Oldsmobile
Model:
Alero
Rating:
Table of Contents
- 2002 Oldsmobile Alero Owner's Manual
1
Copyright General Motors Corp. 2001
2
For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual:
3
How to Use this Manual
4
Safety Warnings and Symbols
4
Vehicle Damage Warnings
5
Vehicle Symbols
5
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
7
Seats and Seat Controls
8
Manual Seats
8
Power Lift Seat (If Equipped)
9
Six-Way Power Seat Controls (If Equipped)
10
Manual Lumbar Support (If Equipped)
10
Reclining Front Seatbacks
10
Head Restraints
12
Seatback Latches (Two-Door Models)
12
Easy Entry Seat (Two-Door Models)
13
Rear Seats
13
Folding the Rear Seatback (Option)
13
Safety Belts: They're for Everyone
14
Why Safety Belts Work
15
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts --and the Answers
18
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
19
Adults
19
Driver Position
20
Lap-Shoulder Belt
20
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (Four-Door Models)
22
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
27
Right Front Passenger Position
28
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
28
How the Air Bag System Works
30
Where are the air bags?
30
When should an air bag inflate?
31
What makes an air bag inflate?
32
How does an air bag restrain?
32
What will you see after an air bag inflates?
32
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
34
Rear Seat Passengers
34
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions
34
Lap-Shoulder Belt
34
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults
37
Center Passenger Position
40
Lap Belt
40
Children
41
Infants and Young Children
41
Restraint Systems for Children
45
Where to Put the Restraint
48
Top Strap
48
Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System)
50
Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System
52
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position
53
Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position
55
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
56
Older Children
59
Safety Belt Extender
62
Checking Your Restraint Systems
62
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
62
Section 2 Features and Controls
63
Windows
64
Manual Windows
65
Power Windows (If Equipped)
65
Auto-Down Switch
65
Lock-Out Switch (Four-Door Models)
65
Keys
66
Door Locks
68
Power Door Locks
69
Programmable Automatic Door Locks
69
Customizing the Automatic Door Locks
70
Delayed Locking
71
Rear Door Security Locks (Four-Door Models)
72
Anti-Lockout Protection
73
Leaving Your Vehicle
73
Remote Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)
73
Operation
74
Programmable Horn Chirp
75
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle
75
Battery Replacement
76
Trunk
77
Remote Trunk Release
78
Remote Trunk Release Lockout
78
Trunk Release Handle
79
Trap-Resistant Trunk Kit
79
Theft
80
Key in the Ignition
80
Parking at Night
80
Parking Lots
80
Passlock
81
New Vehicle \Break-In\
81
Ignition Positions
82
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
83
Starting Your Engine
83
Automatic Transaxle
83
Manual Transaxle
83
Starting Your 2.2L L4 ECOTEC_ Engine
84
Starting Your 3400 V6 Engine
85
Engine Coolant Heater (Option)
86
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
87
Automatic Transaxle Operation
88
Manual Transaxle Operation
92
Shift Speeds
93
Up-Shift Light (Manual Transaxle) (If Equipped)
93
Parking Brake
94
Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only)
95
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Only)
96
Torque Lock (Automatic Transaxle)
96
Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only)
97
Parking Your Vehicle/Key Removal (Manual Transaxle Models Only)
97
Parking Over Things That Burn
98
Engine Exhaust
98
Running Your Engine While You' re Parked (Automatic Transaxle)
99
Horn
99
Tilt Wheel
100
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
100
Turn and Lane-Change Signals
101
Turn Signal On Chime
101
Lamps On Reminder
101
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
102
Flash-to-Pass
102
Windshield Wipers
102
Windshield Washer
103
Cruise Control
104
Setting Cruise Control
105
Resuming a Set Speed
105
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control
106
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control
106
Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control
106
Using Cruise Control on Hills
107
Ending Out of Cruise Control
107
Erasing the Cruise Speed Memory
107
Exterior Lamps
107
Daytime Running Lamps
108
Automatic Light Control (ALC)
109
Headlamps Dim to Park
109
Delayed Headlamps
110
Fog Lamps (If Equipped)
110
Interior Lamps
110
Instrument Panel Brightness Control
110
Illuminated Entry/Exit System
111
Mirror Reading Lamps (If Equipped)
111
Three-Position Dome Lamp
111
Trunk Lamp
111
Battery Saver
112
Mirrors
112
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror
112
Manual Remote Control Mirror
112
Power Remote Control Mirrors (If Equipped)
113
Convex Outside Mirror
113
Storage Compartments
114
Glove Box
114
Center Console Storage Area
114
Rear Seat Cupholders
114
Convenience Net (If Equipped)
114
Ashtray and Cigarette Lighter (If Equipped)
115
Sun Visors
115
Visor Vanity Mirror
115
Accessory Power Outlet
116
Sunroof (Option)
117
The Instrument Panel --Your Information System
118
Instrument Panel Cluster
120
Speedometer and Odometer
121
Trip Odometer
121
Tachometer
121
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
122
Safety Belt Reminder Light
122
Air Bag Readiness Light
123
Charging System Indicator Light
124
Up-Shift Light (Manual Transaxle) (If Equipped)
124
Brake System Warning Light
124
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
126
Enhanced Traction System Warning Light
126
Enhanced Traction System Active Light
127
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
128
Low Coolant Warning Light
128
Low Tire Pressure Light (If Equipped)
129
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light in the United States or Check Engine Light in Canada)
130
If the Light Is Flashing
132
If the Light Is On Steady
132
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
133
Oil Pressure Light
134
Low Oil Light (If Equipped)
135
Change Oil Light
135
Security Light
136
Cruise Light
136
Low Washer Light
136
Service Vehicle Soon Light
137
Fuel Gage
137
Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
138
Comfort Controls
139
Climate Control System with Air Conditioning
139
Fan Knob
139
Temperature Knob
139
Mode Knob
139
Mode Buttons
140
Air Conditioning
140
Heating
141
Defogging and Defrosting Windows
141
Rear Window Defogger
142
Ventilation System
142
Ventilation Tips
143
Audio Systems
144
Setting the Clock
144
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player with Programmable Equalization and Radio Data System (RDS)
144
Playing the Radio
144
Finding a Station
145
Setting Preset Stations
146
Setting the Tone (Bass/ Treble)
146
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
147
Using RDS
147
Finding a PTY Preset Station
148
Setting PTY Preset Stations
149
RDS Messages
149
Playing a Compact Disc
150
Compact Disc Errors
151
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player with Programmable Equalization and Radio Data System (RDS) (If Equipped)
152
Playing the Radio
152
Finding a Station
152
Setting Preset Stations
153
Setting the Tone (Bass/Treble)
153
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade)
154
Using RDS
154
Finding a PTY Preset Station
155
Setting PTY Preset Stations
156
RDS Messages
156
Playing a Cassette Tape
157
Cassette Tape Messages
159
Playing a Compact Disc
159
Compact Disc Messages
161
Theft-Deterrent Feature
161
Understanding Radio Reception
161
AM
161
FM Stereo
162
Tips About Your Audio System
162
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
163
Care of Your Compact Discs
164
Care of Your Compact Disc Player
164
Backglass Antenna
165
Chime Level Adjustment
165
Section 4 Your Driving and the Road
166
Defensive Driving
167
Drunken Driving
168
Control of a Vehicle
171
Braking
171
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
172
Using Anti-Lock
174
Braking in Emergencies
174
Enhanced Traction System (ETS)
174
Steering
176
Power Steering
176
Variable Effort Steering (If Equipped)
176
Steering Tips
176
Driving on Curves
176
Steering in Emergencies
177
Off-Road Recovery
178
Passing
178
Loss of Control
180
Skidding
180
Driving at Night
181
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
182
Hydroplaning
183
Driving Through Deep Standing Water
184
Driving Through Flowing Water
184
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
184
City Driving
185
Freeway Driving
186
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
187
Highway Hypnosis
188
Hill and Mountain Roads
189
Winter Driving
190
Driving on Snow or Ice
191
If You' re Caught in a Blizzard
193
Recreational Vehicle Towing
195
Dinghy Towing
196
Dolly Towing
198
Loading Your Vehicle
199
Towing a Trailer
201
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
202
Weight of the Trailer
202
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
203
Total Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires
203
Hitches
204
Safety Chains
204
Trailer Brakes
204
Driving with a Trailer
205
Following Distance
205
Passing
205
Backing Up
205
Making Turns
206
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
206
Driving On Grades
207
Parking on Hills
207
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill
208
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
208
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
208
Section 5 Problems on the Road
209
Hazard Warning Flashers
210
Other Warning Devices
210
Jump Starting
211
Towing Your Vehicle
216
Engine Overheating
217
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
217
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
218
Cooling System
219
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank
221
If a Tire Goes Flat
226
Changing a Flat Tire
226
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
227
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
229
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools
234
Storing the Spare Tire and Tools
235
Compact Spare Tire
236
If You' re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow
237
Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
237
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care
238
Service
239
Doing Your Own Service Work
239
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle
240
Fuel
240
Gasoline Octane
240
Gasoline Specifications
241
California Fuel
241
Additives
241
Fuels in Foreign Countries
242
Filling Your Tank
243
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
245
Checking Things Under the Hood
246
Hood Release
246
Engine Compartment Overview
248
Engine Oil
250
Checking Engine Oil
250
When to Add Engine Oil
252
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
253
Engine Oil Additives
255
When to Change Engine Oil (GM Oil Life System_)
255
How to Reset the Change Oil Light
256
What to Do with Used Oil
256
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
257
Automatic Transaxle Fluid
259
Manual Transaxle Fluid
260
Hydraulic Clutch
260
When to Check and What to Use
260
How to Check and Add Fluid
260
Engine Coolant
261
What to Use
262
Checking Coolant
263
Adding Coolant
264
Power Steering Fluid
265
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
265
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
265
What to Use
265
Windshield Washer Fluid
265
What to Use
265
Adding Washer Fluid
266
Brakes
267
Brake Fluid
267
What to Add
268
Brake Wear
269
Brake Pedal Travel
269
Brake Adjustment
269
Replacing Brake System Parts
270
Battery
270
Vehicle Storage
270
Bulb Replacement
271
Halogen Bulbs
271
Headlamps
271
Headlamp Aiming
272
Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps
274
Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp
274
Rear Turn Signal and Stop/Taillamps
275
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
276
Tires
277
Inflation -- Tire Pressure
278
When to Check
278
How to Check
278
Tire Pressure Monitor System (If Equipped)
279
Tire Inspection and Rotation
281
When It's Time for New Tires
282
Buying New Tires
283
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
284
Treadwear
284
Traction -- AA, A, B, C
284
Temperature -- A, B, C
285
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
285
Wheel Replacement
285
Used Replacement Wheels
286
Tire Chains
287
Appearance Care
288
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
288
Cleaning of Fabric/Carpet
289
Using Cleaner on Fabric
289
Special Fabric Cleaning Problems
290
Cleaning Vinyl
290
Cleaning Leather
290
Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel
291
Cleaning Interior Plastic Components
291
Care of Safety Belts
291
Cleaning Glass Surfaces
291
Cleaning the Outside of the Windshield and Wiper Blades
292
Weatherstrips
292
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
292
Washing Your Vehicle
292
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
293
Finish Care
293
Cleaning Aluminum Wheels (If Equipped)
294
Cleaning Tires
294
Sheet Metal Damage
294
Finish Damage
295
Underbody Maintenance
295
Chemical Paint Spotting
295
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
296
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
297
Engine Identification
297
Service Parts Identification Label
297
Electrical System
298
Add-On Electrical Equipment
298
Windshield Wipers
298
Power Windows
298
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
298
Instrument Panel Fuse Blocks
298
Instrument Panel Fuse Block -- Driver's Side
299
Instrument Panel Fuse Block -- Passenger' s Side
300
Engine Compartment Fuse Block
301
Replacement Bulbs
303
Capacities and Specifications
303
Capacities
304
Engine Specifications
304
Wheel Nut Torque
304
Air Conditioning Refrigerant Capacity
305
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
305
Section 7 Maintenance Schedule
306
Introduction
307
Your Vehicle and the Environment
307
Maintenance Requirements
307
How This Section is Organized
308
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services
309
Using Your Maintenance Schedule
309
Scheduled Maintenance
310
Footnotes
310
Scheduled Maintenance
311
Engine Oil Scheduled Maintenance
311
Scheduled Maintenance
314
Part B: Owner Checks and Services
319
At Each Fuel Fill
319
Engine Oil Level Check
319
Engine Coolant Level Check
319
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
319
At Least Once a Month
319
Tire Inflation Check
319
Cassette Deck Service
319
At Least Twice a Year
320
Restraint System Check
320
Wiper Blade Check
320
Weatherstrip Lubrication
320
Manual Transaxle Check
320
Automatic Transaxle Inspection
320
Hydraulic Clutch System Check
320
At Least Once a Year
320
Key Lock Cylinders Service
320
Body Lubrication Service
320
Starter Switch Check
321
Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock Control System Check
321
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check
322
Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Mechanism Check
322
Underbody Flushing Service
322
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections
323
Steering, Suspension and Front Drive Axle Boot and Seal Inspection
323
Exhaust System Inspection
323
Fuel System Inspection
324
Engine Cooling System Inspection
324
Throttle System Inspection
324
Brake System Inspection
324
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
325
Part E: Maintenance Record
327
Section 8 Customer Assistance Information
332
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
333
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users
335
Customer Assistance Offices
335
United States
335
Canada
336
All Overseas Locations
336
Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/ Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U. S. Virgin Islands)
336
GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities
336
Oldsmobile Roadside Assistance Program Features and Benefits
337
Security While You Travel
337
Canadian Roadside Assistance
338
Courtesy Transportation
339
Plan Ahead When Possible
339
Transportation Options
339
Shuttle Service
339
Public Transportation or Fuel Reimbursement
340
Courtesy Rental Vehicle
340
Additional Program Information
340
Warranty Information
341
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
341
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT
342
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS
342
SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION
343
Service Manuals
343
Transmission, Transaxle, Transfer Case Unit Repair Manual
343
Service Bulletins
343
Owner's Information
343
Current and Past Model Order Forms
343
2002 Oldsmobile Alero Overview
Introduction
The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero is a compact car that blends style, performance, and comfort, embodying the essence of the early 2000s American automotive design. With its sporty stance and sleek exterior, the Alero appeals to a wide range of drivers, from daily commuters to those searching for a spirited driving experience. As one of the final models produced by Oldsmobile, the Alero offers a nostalgic glimpse into the brand’s legacy, featuring a modern yet classic approach to both aesthetics and functionality.
Powertrains
The 2002 Alero is available with two powertrain options, starting with a spirited 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 140 horsepower, delivering impressive fuel efficiency suitable for city driving. For those seeking a bit more power, the Alero offers a 3.4-liter V6 engine that generates 170 horsepower, ensuring a thrilling driving experience without sacrificing reliability. Both engine options come with a standard five-speed manual transmission, while a four-speed automatic is available for added convenience.
Trims
The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero is offered in three main trims: the base model, the GLS, and the sporty GLS V6. The base model provides essential features and a budget-friendly option, while the GLS trim enriches the experience with added conveniences such as power windows and alloy wheels. The GLS V6 elevates the performance and luxury with enhanced engine power, leather seating, and upgraded audio systems, catering to drivers who desire a little more from their compact sedan.
Features
Standard features on the 2002 Alero include air conditioning, cruise control, and a compact disc player, making every journey enjoyable. Higher trims introduce enhancements such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, an anti-lock braking system, and a premium sound system, providing comfort and entertainment for all passengers. Additionally, the vehicle's spacious interior and trunk space offer practicality for everyday use.
Owner's Manual
The 2002 Oldsmobile Alero owner's manual is an essential guide for any Alero driver, providing comprehensive information on vehicle operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It outlines key features, recommended service intervals, and safety tips, ensuring that owners can fully maximize their driving experience and maintain the vehicle's longevity. From understanding dashboard symbols to routine maintenance schedules, this manual serves as a valuable resource, enhancing the overall ownership experience.
User manual download
The Oldsmobile Alero owner manual for the 2002 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2002 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.
Posted by, John Mana
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