Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2012 Chevrolet Volt
2012 Chevrolet Volt
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-36 Service and Maintenance . . . 11-1 Customer Information . . . . . . . 13-1
Object Detection Systems . . . . 9-38 General Information . . . . . . . . . . 11-1 Customer Information . . . . . . . . 13-1
Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-44 Maintenance Schedule . . . . . . . 11-3 Reporting Safety Defects . . . . 13-13
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-53 Special Application Vehicle Data Recording and
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-58 Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8 Privacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-15
Conversions and Add-Ons . . . 9-58 Additional Maintenance
and Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-8 OnStar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Vehicle Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-1 Recommended Fluids, OnStar Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
General Information . . . . . . . . . . 10-2 Lubricants, and Parts . . . . . . 11-12 OnStar Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2
Vehicle Checks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6 Maintenance Records . . . . . . . 11-14 OnStar Additional
Headlamp Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . 10-26 Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-5
Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . 10-26 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-1 Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . i-1
Electrical System . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-30 Vehicle Identification . . . . . . . . . 12-1
Wheels and Tires . . . . . . . . . . . 10-40 Vehicle Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Jump Starting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-68
Towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-73
Appearance Care . . . . . . . . . . . 10-78
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
Introduction iii
Litho in U.S.A.
©
Part No. 20819515 A First Printing 2011 General Motors LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
iv Introduction
Introduction v
vi Introduction
2 NOTES
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
In Brief 1-1
1-2 In Brief
Instrument Panel
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
In Brief 1-3
A. Air Vents on page 8‑8. H. Light Sensor. See Daytime R. Leaf Button. See Center Stack
B. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever. Running Lamps (DRL) on Display on page 5‑29.
See Turn and Lane-Change page 6‑2. S. DRIVE MODE Button. See
Signals on page 6‑3. I. Instrument Panel Storage on Driver Selected Operating
Exterior Lamp Controls on page 4‑1. Modes on page 9‑22.
page 6‑1. J. Automatic Climate Control T. Power Button on page 9‑16.
Pedestrian Friendly Alert on System on page 8‑1. U. Shift Lever. See Electric Drive
page 5‑7. K. Driver Information Center (DIC) Unit on page 9‑28.
C. Instrument Cluster on Controls. See Driver Information V. Infotainment on page 7‑1.
page 5‑10. Center (DIC) on page 5‑43.
Navigation System. See the
Driver Information Center (DIC) L. Instrument Panel Illumination separate navigation system
Display. See Driver Information Control on page 6‑4. manual.
Center (DIC) on page 5‑43. M. Data Link Connector (DLC) (Out W. Electric Parking Brake on
D. Windshield Wiper/Washer on of View). See Malfunction page 9‑30.
page 5‑7. Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19.
X. Power Door Locks on
E. Heated Front Seats on page 3‑7 N. Cruise Control on page 9‑36. page 2‑11.
(If Equipped). O. Steering Wheel Adjustment on Y. Hazard Warning Flashers on
F. Center Stack Display on page 5‑6. page 6‑3.
page 5‑29. P. Horn on page 5‑7.
G. Charging Status Indicator. See Q. Steering Wheel Controls on
Charging Status Feedback on page 5‑6 (If Equipped).
page 9‑47.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
1-4 In Brief
In Brief 1-5
1-6 In Brief
To lock the doors, press the lock/ The Keyless Access can be Power Door Locks
unlock button if: programmed to unlock all doors
. More than five seconds have on the first lock/unlock press from
passed. the driver door. See Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑53.
. The lock/unlock button was used
to unlock all doors. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE):
The RKE transmitter must be within
. All doors are closed. 60 m (195 ft) of the vehicle.
To unlock all doors from the K: Press to unlock.
passenger door, press the lock/
unlock button on the door handle. Q: Press to lock.
To lock the doors, press the lock/ See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
unlock button if: System Operation on page 2‑2.
. The lock/unlock button was used Key: To unlock or lock the door,
turn the key left or right. The power door lock switches are
to unlock all doors. on the center stack.
Inside the vehicle: Use the door
. All doors are closed.
lock knob, the door handle, or the K: Press to unlock.
power door switch. See Door Locks Q: Press to lock.
on page 2‑10. See Power Door Locks on
page 2‑11.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
In Brief 1-7
1-8 In Brief
In Brief 1-9
1-10 In Brief
Press the button once for the Press the touch screen M AUTO Head Restraint
highest setting. With each press of
or L AUTO button. The button color Adjustment
the button, the heated seat will
change to the next lower setting, will change to green when this Do not drive until the head restraints
and then the off setting. Three lights feature is on.
for all occupants are installed and
indicate the highest setting and one When the vehicle is on, this feature adjusted properly.
light the lowest. will automatically activate the To achieve a comfortable seating
See Heated Front Seats on heated seats at the level required by
position, change the seatback
page 3‑7 for more information. the vehicle's interior temperature.
recline angle as little as necessary
The active high, medium, low, or off while keeping the seat and the
Auto Heated Seats heated seat level will be indicated head restraint height in the proper
by the manual heated seat button
position.
lights on the center stack. Use the
touch screen buttons or the manual For more information see Head
heated seat buttons on the center Restraints on page 3‑2 and Seat
stack to turn auto heated seats off. Adjustment on page 3‑4.
See Heated Front Seats on
page 3‑7 for more information.
The heated seats can also be
programmed to come on during
a remote start. See Vehicle
Personalization on page 5‑53 for
more information.
If available, the controls can be
accessed while the vehicle is on by
pressing the CLIMATE button on the
center stack.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
In Brief 1-11
1-12 In Brief
In Brief 1-13
1-14 In Brief
In Brief 1-15
Heating, cooling, and ventilation can be controlled by using the climate F. Rear Window Defogger
control buttons and the climate touch screen. G. Manual Fan Control
1-16 In Brief
In Brief 1-17
Vehicle Features Storing a Favorite Station knob or press the Time screen
button to display other options
Stations from all bands can be
within that feature.
Radio(s) stored in the favorite lists in any
order. Up to six stations can be 2. Press + or − to increase or
VOL/ O : Press to turn the system stored in each favorite page and the decrease the Hours and Minutes
on and off. Turn to increase or number of available favorite pages displayed on the clock.
decrease the volume. can be set. 12/24 HR Format: Press the 12 HR
SOURCE: Press to choose To store the station to a position in screen button for standard time;
between FM, AM, or XM™, the list, press the corresponding press the 24 HR screen button for
if equipped. numeric button 1 to 6 until a beep is military time.
TUNE/MENU: Turn to select radio heard. Day + or Day −: Press the Day +
stations. Press to select a menu. See “Storing a Station as a or Day − display buttons to increase
Favorite” in AM-FM Radio on or decrease the day.
r SEEK: Press to seek the
previous station or track. page 7‑7 for more information. Display: Press Display to turn the
Setting the Clock display of the time on the screen on
SEEK [ : Press to seek the next or off.
station or track. Adjusting the Time
See Clock on page 5‑42 for more
INFO: Press to show available The clock is in the center stack information.
information about the current station display.
or track.
To set the time:
See Overview on page 7‑2 for more
information about these and other 1. Press the CONFIG button to
radio features. enter the menu options. Turn the
TUNE/MENU knob to scroll
through the available setup
features. Press the TUNE/MENU
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
1-18 In Brief
In Brief 1-19
1-20 In Brief
In Brief 1-21
Charging While the charge cord is plugged one second and release to open
into the vehicle, the vehicle cannot the charge port door. The charge
The high voltage battery can be be driven. port door can also be opened
charged using a household using the RKE transmitter. See
electrical outlet. There are three Charging Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
ways to program how the vehicle System Operation on page 2‑2.
Start Charge
is charged. See Charging on
page 5‑31 for more information. In cold weather conditions, ice
may form around the charge port
This section explains the process door. The charge port door may
for charging the high voltage battery. not open on the first attempt.
Do not allow the vehicle to remain in Remove ice from the area and
temperature extremes for long repeat attempting to open the
periods without being driven or charge port door.
plugged in. It is recommended that
the vehicle be plugged in when
temperatures are below 0°C (32°F)
and above 32°C (90°F) to maximize
high voltage battery life.
The charging system may run fans
and pumps that result in sounds 1. The charge port door release
from the vehicle while it is turned button is on the driver door inner
off. Additional unexpected clicking trim panel. With the vehicle in
sounds may be caused by the P (Park), press the button for
electrical devices used while
charging.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (22,1)
1-22 In Brief
indicators are both green. See feature, see “Charge Cord Theft
Charge Cord on page 9‑50 for Alert” in Vehicle Personalization
more information. on page 5‑53.
End Charge
1. Unlock the vehicle with the RKE
transmitter to disarm the charge
cord theft alert.
In Brief 1-23
1-24 In Brief
In Brief 1-25
1-26 In Brief
Tire Pressure Monitor indicator that the tire pressures are Engine Oil Life System
getting low and the tires need to be
This vehicle may have a Tire inflated to the proper pressure. The engine oil life system calculates
Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). engine oil life based on vehicle use
The TPMS does not replace normal and displays the CHANGE ENGINE
monthly tire maintenance. It is the OIL SOON message when it is time
driver’s responsibility to maintain to change the engine oil and filter.
correct tire pressures. The oil life system should be reset
See Tire Pressure Monitor System to 100% only following an oil
on page 10‑47. change.
Resetting the Oil Life System
The TPMS warning light alerts you Tire Sealant and
1. Use the SELECT knob to select
to a significant loss in pressure of Compressor Kit OIL LIFE on the DIC menu.
one of the vehicle's tires. If the
warning light comes on, stop as This vehicle may have a tire sealant 2. Press SELECT to start the OIL
soon as possible and inflate the and compressor kit that can be used LIFE reset procedure.
tires to the recommended pressure to seal small punctures in the tread
area of the tire. Significant sidewall 3. The DIC menu will display “Are
shown on the Tire and Loading
damage will require the tire to be you sure that you want to reset?”
Information label. See Vehicle Load
replaced. Use SELECT to choose YES to
Limits on page 9‑11. The warning
reset oil life or NO to exit and
light will remain on until the tire See Tire Sealant and Compressor return to the previous menu.
pressure is corrected. Kit on page 10‑60 for complete
During cooler conditions, the low tire operating information.
pressure warning light may appear
when the vehicle is first started and
then turn off. This may be an early
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (27,1)
In Brief 1-27
4. If YES is selected, the DIC menu Aggressive braking is indicated Drive Mode and PRNDL Selection
will display RESET OIL LIFE for when the ball turns yellow and Use Normal Mode when possible.
a short time and then 100% OIL travels below the center of the
LIFE will be displayed when OIL gauge. Sport Mode provides more
LIFE is successfully reset. responsive acceleration than
Acceleration/Braking/Coasting Normal Mode but can reduce
See Engine Oil Life System on efficiency.
page 10‑12. Avoid unnecessary rapid
accelerations and decelerations. Use Mountain Mode prior to
Driving for Better Energy Electric range is maximized at climbing long, steep grades in
80 km/h (50 mph) and below. Higher mountainous areas. Be sure to
Efficiency speeds use more energy and can engage Mountain Mode before
Use the following tips to help significantly reduce electric range. starting to climb. Mountain Mode
maximize energy efficiency and reduces electric range and power
Use cruise control when but may be needed to maintain
range. appropriate. speeds above 96 km/h (60 mph)
Driving Style Plan ahead for decelerations and when climbing grades of 5% or
Efficiency Gauge (Instrument coast whenever possible. For greater.
Cluster) example, do not rush to traffic Use L (Low) in heavy stop‐and‐go
signals. traffic or when traveling downhill.
The ball indicator should be kept
green and in the center of the Do not shift to N (Neutral) to coast. L (Low) requires less brake pedal
gauge. The vehicle recovers energy while application and provides a
coasting and braking in D (Drive) controlled, efficient way to slow the
Inefficient acceleration is indicated or L (Low). vehicle down.
when the ball turns yellow and
travels above the center of the
gauge.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (28,1)
1-28 In Brief
In Brief 1-29
1-30 In Brief
2 NOTES
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
Windows on page 2‑18. This feature sounds and the turn signals flash for
can be disabled by a service 30 seconds. Press again to cancel
technician. the panic alarm.
Q (Lock): Press to lock all doors. B (Remote Start): Press Q and
The hazard warning lamps will flash then press and hold B within
once and the anti-theft alarm system five seconds to start the vehicle's
will be armed. See Anti-theft Alarm heating or air conditioning systems
System on page 2‑14. and rear window defogger from
If the driver door is open when Q is outside the vehicle using the RKE
pressed, all doors lock and then transmitter. See Remote Start on
the driver door will unlock if the page 2‑7 for more information.
Unlocked Door Anti Lock Out The auto heated seats, if equipped,
K (Unlock): Press once to unlock feature is enabled through the can be programmed to come on
the driver door. Press a second time vehicle personalization. See when the vehicle is remotely
within five seconds to unlock all “Unlocked Door Anti Lock Out” started. See Vehicle Personalization
doors. under Vehicle Personalization on on page 5‑53 for more information.
page 5‑53 for more information. Also see “Auto Heated Seats” under
The hazard warning lamps will This may vary based on vehicle Heated Front Seats on page 3‑7.
flash twice each time the button is personalization.
pressed and the anti-theft alarm A (Charge Port Door): Press to
system will be disarmed. See 7 (Panic Alarm): Press and open the charge port door. See
Anti-theft Alarm System on release one time to locate the Plug-In Charging on page 9‑44 for
page 2‑14. vehicle. The exterior lamps flash more information.
and the horn chirps three times.
On some models, pressing and Press and hold for three seconds to
holding K will open all of the sound the panic alarm. The horn
vehicle's windows. See Power
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
If there are no currently recognized 3. Repeat Step 2 two more times. 5. Press and hold the POWER O
transmitters available, follow this After the third time, all previously button for two seconds. When
procedure to program up to five known transmitters will no longer the transmitter is programmed,
transmitters. This procedure will work with the vehicle. Remaining the DIC will show that it is ready
take approximately 30 minutes to transmitters can be programmed to program the next transmitter.
complete. The vehicle must be off during the next steps.
and all of the transmitters must be in 6. Remove the transmitter from the
The DIC display should now
the vehicle. transmitter slot and press K on
show READY FOR
1. Insert the vehicle key of the REMOTE #1. the transmitter.
transmitter into the key lock To program additional
cylinder on the outside of the transmitters, repeat Steps 4
driver door and turn the key to through 6.
the unlock position five times
When all additional transmitters
within 10 seconds.
are programmed, press and
The Driver Information Center hold the POWER O button
(DIC) displays REMOTE LEARN for 10 seconds to exit
PENDING, PLEASE WAIT. programming mode.
2. Wait for 10 minutes until the
DIC displays PRESS START
Starting the Vehicle with a Low
BUTTON TO LEARN and then Transmitter Battery
press the POWER O button on If the transmitter battery is weak,
the center stack. the DIC may display NO REMOTE
4. Remove the rubber mat in DETECTED when you try to start
The DIC display will again show the instrument panel storage. the vehicle. The REPLACE
REMOTE LEARN PENDING, Extend the key blade on the new BATTERY IN REMOTE KEY
PLEASE WAIT. transmitter and insert the key message may also be displayed at
blade into the transmitter slot. this time.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
Remote start will automatically shut Extending the Time Conditions in Which Remote
off after 10 minutes unless a time Start May Not Work
To extend the time of the first
extension is done.
remote start, repeat the steps for Conditions in which a remote start
While the remote start is active, the activating remote start. Remote start may not occur include:
parking lamps will turn on and can only be extended one time
remain on.
. An open hood.
between driving.
After entering the vehicle during a
. Vehicle propulsion system
Canceling Remote Start fault conditions, including an
remote start, press the POWER O emission control system
To cancel a remote start, do any of
button on the center stack with the malfunction.
the following:
brake pedal applied to operate as
normal. . Aim the RKE transmitter at the . High voltage battery fault
vehicle and press and hold B conditions.
The remote start can be initiated
two separate times between until the parking lamps turn off. A second remote start or extension
driving. For each remote start, the . Turn on the hazard warning will not occur if the fuel level is low.
passenger compartment will be flashers. During a remote start, conditions in
heated or cooled for 10 minutes. which a remote start may be
. Press the POWER O button on canceled include:
the center stack, with the brake
pedal applied, then press the
. Vehicle propulsion system or
high voltage battery fault
POWER O button again to turn
conditions.
the vehicle off.
. Low engine oil pressure.
. Engine coolant temperature that
is too high.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (10,1)
To unlock all doors from the Inside the vehicle: Pull up or push Delayed Locking
passenger door, press the lock/ down on the door lock knob. Pull
unlock button on the door handle. once on the door handle to unlock This vehicle may have a delayed
the door and a second time to open locking feature. If delayed locking is
To lock the doors, press the lock/ enabled, a chime will sound to
unlock button if: the door. Push the power door lock
switch. See Power Door Locks on indicate a door or hatch is open
. The lock/unlock button was used page 2‑11. when the doors are locked with the
to unlock all doors. power door lock switch. The doors
Power Door Locks will automatically lock and the
. All doors are closed. theft-deterrent system will arm
The Keyless Access can be after all doors are closed and
programmed to unlock all doors on five seconds have passed. Press
the first lock/unlock press from the the lock button again to make the
driver door. See Vehicle doors lock immediately. Press the
Personalization on page 5‑53. unlock switch to cancel the delayed
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE): lock operation. To enable this
The RKE transmitter must be within feature, see “Power Door Locks”
60 m (195 ft) of the vehicle. in Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑53. To arm and disarm the
K: Press to unlock. theft-deterrent system, see Anti-theft
Q: Press to lock. Alarm System on page 2‑14.
See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
System Operation on page 2‑2. The power door lock switches are
Key: To unlock or lock the door, on the center stack.
turn the key left or right. K (Unlock): Press to unlock the
doors.
Q (Lock): Press to lock the doors.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
Remote Keyless Entry (RKE): Vehicle Security Pressing Q on the RKE transmitter
The RKE transmitter must be within a second time will bypass the
60 m (195 ft) of the vehicle. Unlock This vehicle has theft-deterrent 30-second delay and immediately
the doors with the RKE transmitter, features; however, they do not make arm the system.
then press the button on the it impossible to steal.
underside of the hatch and lift up. Disarming the System
Anti-theft Alarm System To disarm the system, press K on
This vehicle has an anti-theft alarm the RKE transmitter, or if the vehicle
system. has the keyless access system,
approach the vehicle with the RKE
Arming the System transmitter.
To arm the system, close all of the
windows and doors and then: Turning off the System Alarm
If there is an attempt to open the
. Press Q on the RKE transmitter. doors, hatch, or hood without first
. Or, lock the vehicle using the pressing K on the RKE transmitter,
power door lock switch in the the system alarm will be activated.
center stack if Unlocked Door The exterior lamps will flash and
Anti Lock Out is turned off. See the horn will sound for about
Use the inside pull handle to lower
“Unlocked Door Anti Lock Out” 30 seconds.
and close the hatch.
under Vehicle Personalization on
Always close the hatch before page 5‑53 for more information.
driving. Do not press the button
The alarm automatically arms after
while closing the hatch; it will
about 30 seconds.
unlatch again.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
To turn off the system alarm: Immobilizer the system. Only a correct
transmitter can be used to turn
. Press K on the RKE transmitter. See Radio Frequency Statement on the vehicle on.
. Or, start the vehicle by pressing page 13‑16 for information
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
POWER O on the center stack Communications Commission (FCC)
with the brake pedal applied rules and Industry Canada
and the RKE transmitter in the Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.
vehicle.
Charge Cord Theft Alert Immobilizer Operation
To arm or disarm the charge cord This vehicle has a passive The security light in the instrument
theft alert, lock or unlock the vehicle theft-deterrent system. The system cluster comes on if there is a
with the RKE transmitter. does not have to be manually problem with arming or disarming
armed or disarmed. the theft-deterrent system.
If there is an attempt to remove the
charge cord while the vehicle is The vehicle is automatically When trying to start the vehicle, the
locked, the system alarm will be immobilized when the vehicle is security light comes on briefly when
activated. To turn off the system turned off. the vehicle is turned on.
alarm, press K on the RKE The system is automatically If the vehicle does not start and the
transmitter. disarmed when the vehicle is security light stays on, there is a
started with a valid RKE transmitter problem with the system. Attempt to
This feature may be disabled
in the vehicle. The RKE transmitter turn the vehicle off and try it again.
through the vehicle personalization.
uses electronic coding that matches Do not leave the RKE transmitter in
See “Charge Cord Theft Alert”
an immobilizer control unit in the the vehicle.
under Vehicle Personalization on
vehicle and automatically disarms
page 5‑53.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
The rear window lockout switch is Pull the sun visor down to block
on the driver door. This feature glare. Detach the sun visor from the
prevents the rear passenger center mount to pivot to the side
windows from operating, except window, or to extend along the rod,
from the driver position. if available.
Press o { to activate the rear
window lockout switch. The LED
light (A) comes on when activated.
Press o { again to deactivate the
lockout switch.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
Head Restraints
{ WARNING
With head restraints that are not
installed and adjusted properly,
there is a greater chance that
occupants will suffer a neck/
spinal injury in a crash. Do not
drive until the head restraints for
all occupants are installed and
adjusted properly.
Adjust the head restraint so that the To raise or lower the head restraint,
top of the restraint is at the same press the button located on the side
Front Seats height as the top of the occupant's of the head restraint and pull up or
The vehicle's front seats have head. This position reduces the push the head restraint down and
adjustable head restraints in the chance of a neck injury in a crash. release the button.
outboard seating positions.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
Pull and push on the head restraint To lower the head restraint, press
after the button is released to make the button, located on the top of
sure that it is locked in place. the seatback, and push the head
The front seat outboard head restraint down. Try to move the
restraints are not designed to be head restraint after the button is
removed. released to make sure that it is
locked in place.
Rear Seats If you are installing a child restraint
The vehicle's rear seats have in the rear seat, see “Securing a
adjustable head restraints in the Child Restraint Designed for the
outboard seating positions. LATCH System” under Lower
Anchors and Tethers for Children
The height of the head restraint can (LATCH System) on page 3‑41.
be adjusted. Pull the head restraint
up to raise it. Try to move the head
restraint to make sure that it is
locked in place.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
Seat Adjustment
{ WARNING
You can lose control of the
vehicle if you try to adjust a
manual driver seat while the To adjust the seat position:
vehicle is moving. The sudden
movement could startle and 1. Pull the handle at the front of the
seat cushion to unlock it. Move the lever up or down to raise
confuse you, or make you push a or lower the seat.
pedal when you do not want to. 2. Move the seat forward or
Adjust the driver seat only when rearward and release the
the vehicle is not moving. handle.
3. Try to move the seat back and
forth to be sure it is locked in
place.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
{ WARNING
If you cannot feel temperature
change or pain to the skin, the
seat heater may cause burns
even at low temperatures. To
reduce the risk of burns, people
with such a condition should use
care when using the seat heater,
especially for long periods of
time. Do not place anything on Navigation System Shown, Base
the seat that insulates against System Similar
heat, such as a blanket, cushion, If available, the controls are on the If available, the controls can be
cover, or similar item. This center stack. To operate, the vehicle accessed while the vehicle is on by
may cause the seat heater to must be on. pressing the CLIMATE button on the
overheat. An overheated seat center stack.
Press M or L to heat the driver
heater may cause a burn or may Press the touch screen M AUTO
or passenger seat cushion and
damage the seat.
seatback. or L AUTO button. The button color
Press the button once for the will change to green when this
highest setting. With each press feature is on.
of the button, the heated seat will When the vehicle is on, this feature
change to the next lower setting, will automatically activate the
and then the off setting. Three lights heated seats at the level required by
indicate the highest setting and one the vehicle's interior temperature.
light the lowest.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
The active high, medium, low, or off and enabled, the heated seats will Rear Seats
heated seat level will be indicated be canceled when the vehicle is
by the manual heated seat button turned on. If the vehicle has auto Folding the Seatback
lights on the center stack. Use the heated seats and the feature is
touch screen buttons or the manual
heated seat buttons on the center
enabled, the seat heating level will
automatically change to the level
{ WARNING
stack to turn auto heated seats off. required by the vehicle's interior If either seatback is not locked, it
If the passenger seat is unoccupied, temperature when the vehicle is could move forward in a sudden
the auto heated seats feature will turned on. stop or crash. That could cause
not activate that seat. The indicator lights on the heated injury to the person sitting there.
The auto heated seats feature seat buttons do not turn on during a Always push and pull on the
can be programmed to always be remote start. seatbacks to be sure they are
enabled when the vehicle is on. The temperature performance of an locked.
See Vehicle Personalization on unoccupied seat may be reduced.
page 5‑53 for more information. This is normal.
Remote Start Heated Seats The heated seats will not turn on
during a remote start unless the
When it is cold outside, the heated heated seats feature is enabled in
seats can be programmed to turn the vehicle personalization menu.
on automatically during a remote See Vehicle Personalization on
vehicle start. Unless the auto page 5‑53 for more information.
heated seats feature is available
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
Raising the Seatback To raise the seatback: The safety belt should not
cross the seatback locking
Notice: Damage to the safety belt
mechanism (A) when raising the
or seatback locking mechanism
seatback.
can occur if the safety belt is
caught between the rear seatback 2. Raise the seatback and push it
and the seatback locking rearward to lock it into place.
mechanism. The safety belt must A tab near the seatback release
be out of the way when the rear lever retracts when the seatback
seat is raised to the upright, is locked.
locked position. If the safety belt
is damaged, see your dealer and 3. Push and pull the top of the
have it replaced. seatback to be sure it is locked
into position.
4. Return the safety belt to the
A. Seatback Locking Mechanism safety belt guide after raising the
B. Safety Belt Storage Clip seatback.
1. Make sure the safety belt is in Keep the seat in the upright, locked
the storage clip (B) before position when not in use.
raising the seatback.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
When you wear a safety belt, you Q: If my vehicle has airbags, why It is very important for all occupants
and the vehicle slow down together. should I have to wear safety to buckle up. Statistics show that
There is more time to stop because belts? unbelted people are hurt more often
you stop over a longer distance and, A: Airbags are supplemental in crashes than those who are
when worn properly, your strongest systems only; so they work with wearing safety belts.
bones take the forces from the safety belts — not instead of There are important things to know
safety belts. That is why wearing them. Whether or not an airbag about wearing a safety belt properly.
safety belts makes such good is provided, all occupants still
sense. have to buckle up to get the
Questions and Answers About most protection.
Safety Belts Also, in nearly all states and in
all Canadian provinces, the law
Q: Will I be trapped in the vehicle
requires wearing safety belts.
after a crash if I am wearing a
safety belt? How to Wear Safety Belts
A: You could be — whether you Properly
are wearing a safety belt or not.
Your chance of being conscious This section is only for people of
during and after a crash, so you adult size.
can unbuckle and get out, is There are special things to know
much greater if you are belted.
. Sit up straight and always keep
about safety belts and children. And your feet on the floor in front
there are different rules for smaller of you.
children and infants. If a child will
. Always use the correct buckle
be riding in the vehicle, see Older
Children on page 3‑32 or Infants for your seating position.
and Young Children on page 3‑35.
Follow those rules for everyone's
protection.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (13,1)
4. Push the latch plate into the 5. To make the lap part tight, pull To unlatch the belt, push the button
buckle until it clicks. up on the shoulder belt. on the buckle. The belt should
Pull up on the latch plate to It may be necessary to pull return to its stowed position.
make sure it is secure. If the belt stitching on the safety belt Before a door is closed, be sure the
is not long enough, see Safety through the latch plate to fully safety belt is out of the way. If a
Belt Extender on page 3‑17. tighten the lap belt on smaller door is slammed against a safety
Position the release button on occupants. belt, damage can occur to both the
the buckle so that the safety belt safety belt and the vehicle.
could be quickly unbuckled if Safety Belt Pretensioners
necessary.
This vehicle has safety belt
pretensioners for front outboard
occupants. Although the safety belt
pretensioners cannot be seen, they
are part of the safety belt assembly.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
They can help tighten the safety properly adjusted, the comfort guide
belts during the early stages of a positions the belt away from the
moderate to severe frontal, near neck and head.
frontal, or rear crash if the threshold There is one guide, if equipped, for
conditions for pretensioner each outside passenger position in
activation are met. the rear seat. When using a comfort
And, if the vehicle has side impact guide, remove the safety belt from
airbags, safety belt pretensioners the seat‐mounted guide before
can help tighten the safety belts in a using the comfort guide. To install a
side crash or a rollover event. comfort guide to the safety belt:
Pretensioners work only once. If the
pretensioners activate in a crash,
they need to be replaced, and other 2. Place the guide over the belt,
new parts for the vehicle's safety and insert the two edges of the
belt system may be required. See belt into the slots of the guide.
Replacing Safety Belt System Parts
after a Crash on page 3‑18.
Rear Safety Belt Comfort
Guides
This vehicle may have rear safety
belt comfort guides. If not, they are
available through your dealer. The
guides may provide added safety 1. Remove the guide from its
belt comfort for older children who storage clip on the interior body
have outgrown booster seats and trim next to the rear seat.
for some adults. When installed and
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
{ WARNING
A safety belt that is not properly
worn may not provide the
protection needed in a crash. The
person wearing the belt could be
seriously injured. The shoulder
belt should go over the shoulder
and across the chest. These parts
of the body are best able to take
belt restraining forces.
3. The belt should not be twisted 4. Buckle and position the safety
and it should lie flat. The elastic belt as described previously in
cord must be under the belt and this section. Make sure that
the guide on top. the shoulder belt crosses the
shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort
guide, squeeze the belt edges
together so that the safety belt can
be removed from the guide. Slide
the guide back into its storage clip
located on the interior body trim
next to the side of the seatback.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (17,1)
Safety Belt Use During The best way to protect the fetus is Safety System Check
to protect the mother. When a safety
Pregnancy belt is worn properly, it is more likely Now and then, check that the safety
Safety belts work for everyone, that the fetus will not be hurt in a belt reminder light, safety belts,
including pregnant women. Like all crash. For pregnant women, as for buckles, latch plates, retractors,
occupants, they are more likely to anyone, the key to making safety and anchorages are all working
be seriously injured if they do not belts effective is wearing them properly. Look for any other loose or
wear safety belts. properly. damaged safety belt system parts
that might keep a safety belt system
Safety Belt Extender from doing its job. See your dealer
to have it repaired. Torn or frayed
If the vehicle's safety belt will fasten safety belts may not protect you in a
around you, you should use it. crash. They can rip apart under
But if a safety belt is not long impact forces. If a belt is torn or
enough, your dealer will order you frayed, get a new one right away.
an extender. When you go in to Make sure the safety belt reminder
order it, take the heaviest coat you light is working. See Safety Belt
will wear, so the extender will be Reminders on page 5‑16 for more
long enough for you. To help avoid information.
personal injury, do not let someone
Keep safety belts clean and dry.
else use it, and use it only for the
See Safety Belt Care on page 3‑18.
seat it is made to fit. The extender
A pregnant woman should wear a has been designed for adults. Never
lap-shoulder belt, and the lap use it for securing child seats. To
portion should be worn as low as wear it, attach it to the regular safety
possible, below the rounding, belt. For more information, see the
throughout the pregnancy. instruction sheet that comes with
the extender.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
Safety Belt Care Replacing Safety Belt After a minor crash, replacement of
safety belts may not be necessary.
Keep belts clean and dry. System Parts after a But the safety belt assemblies that
Crash were used during any crash may
{ WARNING have been stressed or damaged.
{ WARNING { WARNING
Because airbags inflate with great Children who are up against,
force and faster than the blink or very close to, any airbag
of an eye, anyone who is up when it inflates can be seriously
against, or very close to any injured or killed. Airbags plus
There is an airbag readiness light
airbag when it inflates can be lap-shoulder belts offer protection
on the instrument cluster, which
seriously injured or killed. Do not for adults and older children, but
shows the airbag symbol. The
sit unnecessarily close to any not for young children and infants. system checks the airbag electrical
airbag, as you would be if sitting Neither the vehicle's safety belt system for malfunctions. The light
on the edge of the seat or leaning system nor its airbag system tells you if there is an electrical
forward. Safety belts help keep is designed for them. Young problem. See Airbag Readiness
you in position before and during children and infants need the Light on page 5‑17 for more
a crash. Always wear a safety protection that a child restraint information.
belt, even with airbags. The driver system can provide. Always
should sit as far back as possible secure children properly in the
while still maintaining control of vehicle. To read how, see Older
the vehicle. Children on page 3‑32 or Infants
Occupants should not lean on or and Young Children on
sleep against the door or side page 3‑35.
windows in seating positions with
seat-mounted side impact airbags
and/or roof-rail airbags.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (21,1)
The driver knee airbag is below the Driver Side Shown, Passenger
steering column. The front outboard Side Similar
The driver frontal airbag is in the passenger knee airbag is below the The driver and front outboard
center of the steering wheel. glove box. passenger seat-mounted side
impact airbags are in the side of the
The front outboard passenger
seatbacks closest to the door.
frontal airbag is in the passenger
side instrument panel.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (22,1)
whether the object is fixed or frontal or near frontal impacts of the vehicle is struck or the
moving, rigid or deformable, narrow that exceed a predetermined sensing system predicts that the
or wide. deployment threshold. vehicle is about to roll over on its
Thresholds can also vary with The vehicle has seat-mounted side side, or in a severe frontal impact.
specific vehicle design. impact airbags and roof-rail airbags. In any particular crash, no one can
Frontal airbags are not intended to See Airbag System on page 3‑19. say whether an airbag should have
inflate during vehicle rollovers, rear Seat-mounted side impact and inflated simply because of the
impacts, or in many side impacts. roof-rail airbags are intended to vehicle damage or repair costs.
inflate in moderate to severe side
In addition the vehicle has crashes. In addition, these roof‐rail What Makes an Airbag
dual‐stage frontal airbags. airbags are intended to inflate
Dual‐stage airbags adjust the during a rollover or in a severe
Inflate?
restraint according to crash severity. frontal impact. Seat-mounted side In a deployment event, the sensing
The vehicle has electronic frontal impact and roof-rail airbags will system sends an electrical signal
sensors, which help the sensing inflate if the crash severity is above triggering a release of gas from the
system distinguish between a the system's designed threshold inflator. Gas from the inflator fills the
moderate frontal impact and a more level. The threshold level can vary airbag causing the bag to break out
severe frontal impact. For moderate with specific vehicle design. of the cover. The inflator, the airbag,
frontal impacts, dual-stage airbags and related hardware are all part of
Roof-rail airbags are not intended
inflate at a level less than full the airbag module.
to inflate in rear impacts. A
deployment. For more severe frontal seat‐mounted side impact airbag is For airbag location, see Where Are
impacts, full deployment occurs. intended to inflate on the side of the the Airbags? on page 3‑21.
Frontal knee airbags are vehicle that is struck. Both roof‐rail
single‐stage airbags and designed airbags will inflate when either side
to inflate in moderate to severe
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (24,1)
How Does an Airbag But airbags would not help in The parts of the airbag that come
many types of collisions, primarily into contact with you may be warm,
Restrain? because the occupant's motion is but not too hot to touch. There may
In moderate to severe frontal or not toward those airbags. See When be some smoke and dust coming
near frontal collisions, even belted Should an Airbag Inflate? on from the vents in the deflated
occupants can contact the steering page 3‑22 for more information. airbags. Airbag inflation does not
wheel or the instrument panel. In Airbags should never be regarded prevent the driver from seeing out of
moderate to severe side collisions, as anything more than a supplement the windshield or being able to steer
even belted occupants can contact to safety belts. the vehicle, nor does it prevent
the inside of the vehicle. people from leaving the vehicle.
Airbags supplement the protection What Will You See after
provided by safety belts by an Airbag Inflates? { WARNING
distributing the force of the
impact more evenly over the After the frontal airbags and When an airbag inflates, there
occupant's body. seat-mounted side impact airbags may be dust in the air. This dust
inflate, they quickly deflate, so could cause breathing problems
Rollover capable roof‐rail airbags for people with a history of
quickly that some people may not
are designed to help contain the asthma or other breathing trouble.
even realize an airbag inflated.
head and chest of occupants in the To avoid this, everyone in the
Roof-rail airbags may still be at least
outboard seating positions in the
partially inflated for some time after vehicle should get out as soon as
first and second rows. The rollover
they inflate. Some components of it is safe to do so. If you have
capable roof‐rail airbags are
the airbag module may be hot for breathing problems but cannot
designed to help reduce the risk of
several minutes. For location of the get out of the vehicle after an
full or partial ejection in rollover
airbags, see Where Are the airbag inflates, then get fresh air
events, although no system can
Airbags? on page 3‑21. by opening a window or a door.
prevent all such ejections.
If you experience breathing
(Continued)
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (25,1)
Passenger Sensing word ON or OFF, or the symbol for We recommend that children be
on and off will be visible. See secured in a rear seat, including:
System Passenger Airbag Status Indicator an infant or a child riding in a
The vehicle has a passenger on page 5‑18. rear-facing child restraint; a child
sensing system for the front The passenger sensing system riding in a forward-facing child seat;
outboard passenger position. The turns off the front outboard an older child riding in a booster
passenger airbag status indicator passenger frontal airbag and knee seat; and children, who are large
will light on the overhead console airbag, under certain conditions. enough, using safety belts.
when the vehicle is started. No other airbag is affected by the Never put a rear-facing child seat in
passenger sensing system. the front. This is because the risk
The passenger sensing system to the rear-facing child is so great,
works with sensors that are part of if the airbag inflates.
the front outboard passenger seat.
The sensors are designed to detect { WARNING
the presence of a properly seated
United States occupant and determine if the front A child in a rear-facing child
outboard passenger frontal airbag restraint can be seriously injured
and knee airbag should be allowed or killed if the passenger frontal
to inflate or not. airbag inflates. This is because
the back of the rear-facing child
According to accident statistics,
restraint would be very close to
children are safer when properly
the inflating airbag. A child in a
secured in a rear seat in a correct
child restraint for their weight forward-facing child restraint can
Canada be seriously injured or killed if the
and size.
The words ON and OFF or the (Continued)
symbol for on and off will be visible
during the system check. When the
system check is complete, either the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (27,1)
Everyone in the vehicle who If the On Indicator Is Lit for a 5. If, after reinstalling the child
has outgrown child restraints Child Restraint restraint and restarting the
should wear a safety belt vehicle, the on indicator is still lit,
properly — whether or not there is If a child restraint has been installed turn the vehicle off. Then slightly
an airbag for that person. and the on indicator is lit: recline the vehicle seatback
1. Turn the vehicle off. and adjust the seat cushion,
{ WARNING 2. Remove the child restraint from
if adjustable, to make sure that
the vehicle seatback is not
the vehicle.
If the airbag readiness light ever pushing the child restraint into
comes on and stays on, it means 3. Remove any additional items the seat cushion.
that something may be wrong from the seat such as blankets,
Also make sure the child
with the airbag system. To help cushions, seat covers, seat
restraint is not trapped under
avoid injury to yourself or others, heaters, or seat massagers.
the vehicle head restraint. If this
have the vehicle serviced right 4. Reinstall the child restraint happens, adjust the head
away. See Airbag Readiness following the directions restraint. See Head Restraints
Light on page 5‑17 for more provided by the child restraint on page 3‑2.
information, including important manufacturer and refer to
6. Restart the vehicle.
safety information. Securing Child Restraints (Rear
Seat) on page 3‑48 or Securing The passenger sensing system
Child Restraints (Front may or may not turn off the
Passenger Seat) on page 3‑50. airbags for a child in a child
restraint depending upon the
child's seating posture and body
build. It is better to secure a
child restraint in a rear seat.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (29,1)
If the Off Indicator Is Lit for an Use the following steps to allow the Additional Factors Affecting
Adult-Size Occupant system to detect that person and System Operation
enable the front outboard passenger
frontal airbag and knee airbag: Safety belts help keep the
passenger in position on the seat
1. Turn the vehicle off. during vehicle maneuvers and
2. Remove any additional material braking, which helps the passenger
from the seat, such as blankets, sensing system maintain the
cushions, seat covers, seat passenger airbag status. See
heaters, or seat massagers. “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints”
in the Index for additional
3. Place the seatback in the fully information about the importance of
upright position. proper restraint use.
4. Have the person sit upright in A thick layer of additional material,
the seat, centered on the seat such as a blanket or cushion,
cushion, with legs comfortably or aftermarket equipment such
If a person of adult size is sitting extended. as seat covers, seat heaters, and
in the front outboard passenger 5. Restart the vehicle and have the seat massagers can affect how well
seat, but the off indicator is lit, it person remain in this position for the passenger sensing system
could be because that person two to three minutes after the on operates. We recommend that
is not sitting properly in the seat. indicator is lit. you not use seat covers or other
aftermarket equipment except when
approved by GM for your specific
vehicle. See Adding Equipment to
the Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
page 3‑31 for more information
about modifications that can affect
how the system operates.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (30,1)
A wet seat can affect the occupy the seat. See Airbag dealer and the service manual have
performance of the passenger Readiness Light on page 5‑17 for information about servicing the
sensing system. Here is how: important safety information. vehicle and the airbag system. To
. The passenger sensing system The on indicator may be lit if an purchase a service manual, see
may turn off the passenger object, such as a briefcase, Service Publications Ordering
frontal airbag and passenger handbag, grocery bag, laptop, Information on page 13‑12.
knee airbag when liquid is or other electronic device, is put on
soaked into the seat. If this an unoccupied seat. If this is not { WARNING
happens, the off indicator will be desired, remove the object from
lit, and the airbag readiness light the seat. For up to 10 seconds after the
on the instrument panel will also vehicle is turned off and the
12‐volt battery is disconnected,
be lit. { WARNING an airbag can still inflate during
. Liquid pooled on the seat that improper service. You can be
has not soaked in may make it Stowing of articles under the
passenger seat or between the injured if you are close to an
more likely that the passenger
passenger seat cushion and airbag when it inflates. Avoid
sensing system will turn on the
passenger frontal airbag and seatback may interfere with the yellow connectors. They are
passenger knee airbag while a proper operation of the passenger probably part of the airbag
child restraint or child occupant sensing system. system. Be sure to follow proper
is on the seat. If the passenger service procedures, and make
frontal airbag and passenger sure the person performing work
knee airbag are turned on, the Servicing the for you is qualified to do so.
on indicator will be lit. Airbag-Equipped Vehicle
If the passenger seat gets wet, dry Airbags affect how the vehicle
the seat immediately. If the airbag should be serviced. There are parts
readiness light is lit, do not install a of the airbag system in several
child restraint or allow anyone to places around the vehicle. Your
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (31,1)
Adding Equipment to the outboard passenger seat. The vehicle's airbag system, or if you
passenger sensing system may have questions about whether the
Airbag-Equipped Vehicle not operate properly if the original airbag system will be affected if the
Adding accessories that change the seat trim is replaced with non-GM vehicle is modified for any other
vehicle's frame, bumper system, covers, upholstery, or trim; or with reason, call Customer Assistance.
height, front end, or side sheet GM covers, upholstery, or trim See Customer Assistance Offices
metal may keep the airbag system designed for a different vehicle. on page 13‑3.
from working properly. Any object, such as an aftermarket
The operation of the airbag system
seat heater or a comfort-enhancing Airbag System Check
pad or device, installed under or on
can also be affected by changing or The airbag system does not need
top of the seat fabric, could also
moving any parts of the front seats, regularly scheduled maintenance or
interfere with the operation of the
safety belts, airbag sensing and replacement. Make sure the airbag
passenger sensing system. This
diagnostic module, steering wheel, readiness light is working. See
could either prevent proper
instrument panel, roof-rail airbag Airbag Readiness Light on
deployment of the passenger
modules, ceiling or pillar garnish page 5‑17 for more information.
airbag(s) or prevent the passenger
trim, overhead console, front
sensing system from properly Notice: If an airbag covering is
sensors, side impact sensors,
turning off the passenger airbag(s). damaged, opened, or broken, the
rollover sensor module, or airbag
See Passenger Sensing System on airbag may not work properly.
wiring.
page 3‑26. Do not open or break the airbag
Your dealer and the service manual coverings. If there are any
If the vehicle has rollover roof‐rail
have information about the location opened or broken airbag covers,
airbags, see Different Size Tires
of the airbag sensors, sensing and have the airbag covering and/or
and Wheels on page 10‑55 for
diagnostic module, and airbag airbag module replaced. For the
additional important information.
wiring. location of the airbags, see
If your vehicle needs to be modified Where Are the Airbags? on
In addition, the vehicle has a
because you have a disability and page 3‑21. See your dealer for
passenger sensing system that
you have questions about whether service.
includes sensors as part of the front
the modifications will affect the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (32,1)
{ WARNING { WARNING
Never do this.
Children can be seriously injured
or strangled if a shoulder belt is Never hold an infant or a child
wrapped around their neck and while riding in a vehicle. Due to
the safety belt continues to crash forces, an infant or a child
tighten. Never leave children will become so heavy it is not
unattended in a vehicle and never possible to hold it during a crash.
allow children to play with the For example, in a crash at only
safety belts. 40 km/h (25 mph), a 5.5 kg (12 lb)
infant will suddenly become a
(Continued)
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (36,1)
WARNING (Continued)
Child Restraint Systems
distributed across the strongest
part of an infant's body, the back
and shoulders. Infants should
always be secured in rear-facing
child restraints.
{ WARNING
A young child's hip bones are still (B) Forward-Facing Child Seat
so small that the vehicle's regular A forward-facing child seat (B)
(A) Rear‐Facing Infant Seat
safety belt may not remain low provides restraint for the child's
on the hip bones, as it should. A rear-facing infant seat (A) body with the harness.
Instead, it may settle up around provides restraint with the seating
the child's abdomen. In a crash, surface against the back of the
the belt would apply force on a infant.
body area that is unprotected by The harness system holds the infant
any bony structure. This alone in place and, in a crash, acts to
could cause serious or fatal keep the infant positioned in the
injuries. To reduce the risk of restraint.
serious or fatal injuries during a
crash, young children should
always be secured in appropriate
child restraints.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (38,1)
In some areas, Certified Child Securing the Child within the Where to Put the
Passenger Safety Technicians Child Restraint
(CPSTs) are available to inspect
Restraint
and demonstrate how to correctly
use and install child restraints.
{ WARNING According to accident statistics,
children and infants are safer when
In the U.S., refer to the A child can be seriously injured or properly restrained in a child
National Highway Traffic Safety killed in a crash if the child is not restraint system or infant restraint
Administration (NHTSA) website to properly secured in the child system secured in a rear seating
locate the nearest child safety restraint. Secure the child position.
seat inspection station. For CPST
properly following the instructions We recommend that children and
availability in Canada, check with
that came with that child restraint. child restraints be secured in a rear
Transport Canada or the Provincial
seat, including: an infant or a child
Ministry of Transportation office.
riding in a rear-facing child restraint;
a child riding in a forward-facing
child seat; an older child riding in a
booster seat; and children, who are
large enough, using safety belts.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (40,1)
A label on the sun visor says, Child restraints and booster seats
“Never put a rear-facing child WARNING (Continued) vary considerably in size, and some
restraint in the front.” This is may fit in certain seating positions
because the risk to the rear-facing guarantee that an airbag will not better than others. Always make
child is so great, if the airbag deploy under some unusual sure the child restraint is properly
deploys. circumstance, even though the secured.
airbag(s) are turned off.
Depending on where you place the
{ WARNING Secure rear-facing child restraints child restraint and the size of the
in a rear seat, even if the child restraint, you may not be able
A child in a rear-facing child airbag(s) are off. If you secure a to access adjacent safety belt
restraint can be seriously forward-facing child restraint in assemblies or LATCH anchors for
injured or killed if the right front the right front seat, always move additional passengers or child
passenger airbag inflates. the front passenger seat as far restraints. Adjacent seating
This is because the back of the back as it will go. It is better to positions should not be used if the
rear-facing child restraint would secure the child restraint in a child restraint prevents access to or
be very close to the inflating rear seat. interferes with the routing of the
airbag. A child in a forward-facing safety belt.
child restraint can be seriously See Passenger Sensing System
on page 3‑26 for additional Wherever a child restraint is
injured or killed if the right front installed, be sure to secure the
passenger airbag inflates and the information.
child restraint properly.
passenger seat is in a forward
position. When securing a child restraint in a Keep in mind that an unsecured
rear seating position, study the child restraint can move around in a
Even if the passenger sensing collision or sudden stop and injure
instructions that came with the
system has turned off the right people in the vehicle. Be sure to
child restraint to make sure it is
front passenger airbag(s), no compatible with this vehicle. properly secure any child restraint in
system is fail-safe. No one can the vehicle — even when no child is
(Continued) in it.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (41,1)
Lower Anchors and When installing a child restraint with Lower Anchors
a top tether, you must also use
Tethers for Children either the lower anchors or the
(LATCH System) safety belts to properly secure the
The LATCH system holds a child child restraint. A child restraint must
restraint during driving or in a crash. never be attached using only the top
This system is designed to make tether and anchor.
installation of a child restraint easier. In order to use the LATCH system
The LATCH system uses anchors in in your vehicle, you need a
the vehicle and attachments on the child restraint that has LATCH
child restraint that are made for use attachments. The child restraint
with the LATCH system. manufacturer will provide you with Lower anchors (A) are metal bars
instructions on how to use the child built into the vehicle. There are
Make sure that a LATCH-compatible
restraint and its attachments. The two lower anchors for each
child restraint is properly installed
following explains how to attach LATCH seating position that will
using the anchors, or use the
a child restraint with these accommodate a child restraint with
vehicle's safety belts to secure the
attachments in the vehicle. lower attachments (B).
restraint, following the instructions
that came with that restraint, and Not all vehicle seating positions or
also the instructions in this manual. child restraints have lower anchors
and attachments or top tether
anchors and attachments.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (42,1)
Top Tether Anchor The child restraint may have Lower Anchor and Top Tether
a single tether (A) or a dual Anchor Locations
tether (C). Either will have a
single attachment (B) to secure
the top tether to the anchor.
Some child restraints that have a
top tether are designed for use
with or without the top tether being
attached. Others require the top
tether always to be attached.
Be sure to read and follow the
A top tether (A, C) anchors the instructions for the child restraint.
top of the child restraint to the In Canada, the law requires that
vehicle. A top tether anchor is built forward-facing child restraints have
into the vehicle. The top tether a top tether, and that the tether be
attachment (B) on the child restraint Rear Seat
attached. Be sure to read and follow
connects to the top tether anchor in the instructions for your child I (Top Tether Anchor): Seating
the vehicle in order to reduce the restraint. positions with top tether anchors.
forward movement and rotation of
the child restraint during driving or in
H (Lower Anchor): Seating
positions with two lower anchors.
a crash.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (43,1)
New parts and repairs may be Do not secure a child seat in a may be removed. See “Head
necessary even if the LATCH position without a top tether anchor Restraint Removal and
system was not being used at the if a national or local law requires Reinstallation” under Lower
time of the crash. that the top tether be anchored, or if Anchors and Tethers for
the instructions that come with the Children (LATCH System) on
Securing Child Restraints child restraint say that the top strap page 3‑41.
must be anchored.
(Rear Seat) 2. Remove the safety belt from the
If the child restraint does not have guide on the seatback by sliding
When securing a child restraint in a
the LATCH system, you will be the webbing through the opening
rear seating position, study the
using the safety belt to secure the on the guide. Do not secure the
instructions that came with the
child restraint in this position. Be child restraint with the safety belt
child restraint to make sure it is
sure to follow the instructions that routed through the guide.
compatible with this vehicle.
came with the child restraint. Secure 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run
If the child restraint has the LATCH the child in the child restraint when the lap and shoulder portions of
system, see Lower Anchors and and as the instructions say. the vehicle's safety belt through
Tethers for Children (LATCH
If more than one child restraint or around the restraint. The child
System) on page 3‑41 for how and
needs to be installed in the rear restraint instructions will show
where to install the child restraint
seat, be sure to read Where to Put you how.
using LATCH. If a child restraint is
the Restraint on page 3‑39.
secured in the vehicle using a
safety belt and it uses a top tether, 1. Put the child restraint on
see Lower Anchors and Tethers for the seat.
Children (LATCH System) on If the head restraint interferes
page 3‑41 for top tether anchor with the proper installation of the
locations. child restraint, the head restraint
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (49,1)
4. Push the latch plate into the 5. Pull the shoulder belt all the way 6. To tighten the belt, push down
buckle until it clicks. out of the retractor to set the on the child restraint, pull the
Position the release button on lock. When the retractor lock is shoulder portion of the belt to
the buckle so that the safety belt set, the belt can be tightened but tighten the lap portion of the belt,
could be quickly unbuckled if not pulled out of the retractor. and feed the shoulder belt back
necessary. into the retractor. When installing
a forward-facing child restraint,
it may be helpful to use your
knee to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.
Try to pull the belt out of the
retractor to make sure the
retractor is locked. If the
retractor is not locked, repeat
Steps 5 and 6.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (50,1)
7. If the child restraint has a top and Tethers for Children (LATCH on page 5‑18 for more information,
tether, follow the child restraint System) on page 3‑41 for additional including important safety
manufacturer's instructions information on installing the head information.
regarding the use of the top restraint properly. A label on the sun visor says,
tether. See Lower Anchors and If the seat has a safety belt guide, “Never put a rear-facing child seat
Tethers for Children (LATCH return the safety belt into the guide in the front.” This is because the risk
System) on page 3‑41 for more on the seatback by sliding the to the rear-facing child is so great,
information. webbing through the opening on the if the airbag deploys.
8. Before placing a child in the guide.
child restraint, make sure it is { WARNING
securely held in place. To check, Securing Child Restraints
grasp the child restraint at the A child in a rear-facing child
safety belt path and attempt to
(Front Passenger Seat)
restraint can be seriously
move it side to side and back This vehicle has airbags. A rear injured or killed if the right
and forth. When the child seat is a safer place to secure a front passenger airbag inflates.
restraint is properly installed, forward-facing child restraint. See This is because the back of the
there should be no more than Where to Put the Restraint on rear-facing child restraint would
2.5 cm (1 in) of movement. page 3‑39. be very close to the inflating
To remove the child restraint, In addition, the vehicle has a airbag. A child in a forward-facing
unbuckle the vehicle safety belt passenger sensing system which is child restraint can be seriously
and let it return to the stowed designed to turn off the right front injured or killed if the right front
position. If the top tether is passenger frontal airbag and passenger airbag inflates and the
attached to a top tether anchor, passenger knee airbag under passenger seat is in a forward
disconnect it. If the head restraint certain conditions. See Passenger position.
was removed, reinstall it before Sensing System on page 3‑26 and
the seating position is used. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator (Continued)
“Head Restraint Removal and
Reinstallation” under Lower Anchors
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (51,1)
If the child restraint has the LATCH You will be using the lap-shoulder
WARNING (Continued) system, see Lower Anchors and belt to secure the child restraint in
Tethers for Children (LATCH this position. Follow the instructions
Even if the passenger sensing System) on page 3‑41 for how and that came with the child restraint.
system has turned off the right where to install the child restraint
front passenger airbag(s), no 1. Move the seat as far back as it
using LATCH. If a child restraint is will go before securing the
system is fail-safe. No one can secured using a safety belt and it
guarantee that an airbag will not forward-facing child restraint.
uses a top tether, see Lower
deploy under some unusual Anchors and Tethers for Children When the passenger sensing
circumstance, even though the (LATCH System) on page 3‑41 for system has turned off the right
airbag(s) are turned off. top tether anchor locations. front passenger frontal airbag
and passenger knee airbag, the
Secure rear-facing child restraints Do not secure a child seat in a off indicator on the passenger
in a rear seat, even if the position without a top tether anchor airbag status indicator should
airbag(s) are off. If you secure a if a national or local law requires light and stay lit when you start
forward-facing child restraint in that the top tether be anchored, or if the vehicle. See Passenger
the right front seat, always move the instructions that come with the Airbag Status Indicator on
the front passenger seat as far child restraint say that the top strap page 5‑18.
back as it will go. It is better to must be anchored.
2. Put the child restraint on
secure the child restraint in a In Canada, the law requires that the seat.
rear seat. forward-facing child restraints have
a top tether, and that the tether be 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run
See Passenger Sensing System the lap and shoulder portions of
attached.
on page 3‑26 for additional the vehicle's safety belt through
information. or around the restraint. The child
restraint instructions will show
you how.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (52,1)
4. Push the latch plate into the 5. Pull the shoulder belt all the way 6. To tighten the belt, push down
buckle until it clicks. out of the retractor to set the on the child restraint, pull the
Position the release button on lock. When the retractor lock is shoulder portion of the belt to
the buckle so that the safety belt set, the belt can be tightened but tighten the lap portion of the belt,
could be quickly unbuckled if not pulled out of the retractor. and feed the shoulder belt back
necessary. into the retractor. When installing
a forward-facing child restraint, it
may be helpful to use your knee
to push down on the child
restraint as you tighten the belt.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (53,1)
Try to pull the belt out of the If the airbags are off, the off
retractor to make sure the indicator in the passenger airbag
retractor is locked. If the status indicator will come on and
retractor is not locked, repeat stay on when the vehicle is started.
Steps 5 and 6. If a child restraint has been installed
7. Before placing a child in the and the on indicator is lit, see “If
child restraint, make sure it is the On Indicator Is Lit for a Child
securely held in place. To check, Restraint” under Passenger Sensing
grasp the child restraint at the System on page 3‑26 for more
safety belt path and attempt to information.
move it side to side and back To remove the child restraint,
and forth. When the child unbuckle the vehicle safety belt and
restraint is properly installed, let it return to the stowed position.
there should be no more than
2.5 cm (1 in) of movement.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (54,1)
2 NOTES
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
Storage 4-1
Glove Box
Open the glove box by lifting up on
the lever.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (2,1)
4-2 Storage
2 NOTES
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
A. Air Vents on page 8‑8. H. Light Sensor. See Daytime R. Leaf Button. See Center Stack
B. Turn and Lane‐Change Lever. Running Lamps (DRL) on Display on page 5‑29.
See Turn and Lane-Change page 6‑2. S. DRIVE MODE Button. See
Signals on page 6‑3. I. Instrument Panel Storage on Driver Selected Operating
Exterior Lamp Controls on page 4‑1. Modes on page 9‑22.
page 6‑1. J. Automatic Climate Control T. Power Button on page 9‑16.
Pedestrian Friendly Alert on System on page 8‑1. U. Shift Lever. See Electric Drive
page 5‑7. K. Driver Information Center (DIC) Unit on page 9‑28.
C. Instrument Cluster on Controls. See Driver Information V. Infotainment on page 7‑1.
page 5‑10. Center (DIC) on page 5‑43.
Navigation System. See the
Driver Information Center (DIC) L. Instrument Panel Illumination separate navigation system
Display. See Driver Information Control on page 6‑4. manual.
Center (DIC) on page 5‑43. M. Data Link Connector (DLC) (Out W. Electric Parking Brake on
D. Windshield Wiper/Washer on of View). See Malfunction page 9‑30.
page 5‑7. Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19.
X. Power Door Locks on
E. Heated Front Seats on page 3‑7 N. Cruise Control on page 9‑36. page 2‑11.
(If Equipped). O. Steering Wheel Adjustment on Y. Hazard Warning Flashers on
F. Center Stack Display on page 5‑6. page 6‑3.
page 5‑29. P. Horn on page 5‑7.
G. Charging Status Indicator. See Q. Steering Wheel Controls on
Charging Status Feedback on page 5‑6 (If Equipped).
page 9‑47.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
Horn
Press near the horn symbols to
sound the horn.
The pedestrian friendly alert
provides momentary soft‐note horn To use the pedestrian friendly alert: The windshield wiper lever is on the
sound. See Pedestrian Friendly side of the steering column. With
Momentarily push the P button on the vehicle on, move the windshield
Alert on page 5‑7 for more
the end of the turn signal/lane wiper lever to select the wiper
information.
change lever, and a soft‐note alert speed.
will momentarily sound.
Pedestrian Friendly Alert 2: Move the lever up to 2 for fast
Repeat for additional activations of wipes.
Use this feature to alert people who the pedestrian friendly alert.
may not hear your vehicle 1: Move the lever up to 1 for slow
approaching. wipes.
The pedestrian friendly alert is only
available when the vehicle is
moving or is stopped and is not in
P (Park).
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
Heavy snow or ice can overload the The washer and wipers will continue
wipers. If the wiper motor overheats, until the lever is released or the
the windshield wipers will stop until maximum wash time is reached.
the motor cools and the wiper When the windshield wiper lever is
control is turned off. See Electrical released, additional wipes may
System Overload on page 10‑30. occur depending on how long the
Wipe Parking windshield washer had been
G (Adjustable Interval Wipes): activated. See Washer Fluid on
If the vehicle is turned off while the
Move the lever up to G for page 10‑19 for information on filling
adjustable interval wipes, then turn wipers are on 1, 2, or G, they will the windshield washer fluid
the band up for more frequent wipes stop immediately. reservoir.
or down for less frequent wipes. If the windshield wiper lever is then
9 (Off): Use to turn the windshield moved to off before the driver door { WARNING
wipers off. is opened or within 10 minutes, the
wipers will restart and move to the In freezing weather, do not use
3 (Mist): For a single wipe, briefly base of the windshield. the washer until the windshield is
move the wiper lever down. For warmed. Otherwise the washer
several wipes, hold the wiper If the vehicle is turned off during a
fluid can form ice on the
lever down. windshield wash, the wipers will
stop when they reach the base of windshield, blocking your vision.
Clear ice and snow from the wiper the windshield.
blades before using them. If frozen
to the windshield, carefully loosen or Windshield Washer
thaw them. Damaged wiper blades Pull the windshield wiper lever
should be replaced. See Wiper toward you to spray windshield
Blade Replacement on page 10‑25. washer fluid and activate the wipers.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
This screen indicates that charging This screen indicates that the This screen indicates that the
is active and the estimated charge vehicle is fully charged and the charge cord is connected, but the
completion time is 10:00 a.m. charge cord is not connected. vehicle cannot be charged.
A. Battery Gauge (High Voltage) M. Cruise Control Light on W. Total Vehicle Range on
on page 5‑15. page 5‑27. page 5‑16.
B. Fuel Gauge on page 5‑15. N. Electric Parking Brake Light on X. Vehicle Ready Light on
C. Service Electric Parking Brake page 5‑22. page 5‑27.
Light on page 5‑22. O. Door, Hood, or Hatch Open Y. StabiliTrak® OFF Light on
D. Security Light on page 5‑27. Light on page 5‑28. page 5‑24.
E. Engine Coolant Temperature P. Low Fuel Warning Light on Z. Driver Information Center (DIC)
Warning Light on page 5‑25. page 5‑26. on page 5‑43.
F. Charging System Light (12-Volt Q. Antilock Brake System (ABS) AA. Traction Off Light on page 5‑24.
Battery) on page 5‑19. Warning Light on page 5‑23. AB. Sport Mode Light on page 5‑23
G. Engine Oil Pressure Light on R. Electric Drive Unit Positions. and Mountain Mode Light on
page 5‑26. See Electric Drive Unit on page 5‑23.
page 9‑28. AC. Lamps On Reminder on
H. High-Beam On Light on
page 5‑27. S. Driver Efficiency Gauge on page 5‑27.
page 5‑16. AD. Odometer on page 5‑14.
I. Second Row Passenger Safety
Belt Reminder Light. See Safety T. Brake System Warning Light on AE. Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
Belt Reminders on page 5‑16. page 5‑22. page 5‑19.
J. Turn and Lane-Change Signals U. Driver Safety Belt Reminder AF. Traction Control System (TCS)/
on page 6‑3. Light. See Safety Belt StabiliTrak® Light on page 5‑24.
Reminders on page 5‑16.
K. Compass on page 5‑15. AG. Tire Pressure Light on
V. Airbag Readiness Light on page 5‑25.
L. Speedometer on page 5‑14. page 5‑17.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (14,1)
Trip Odometer of turn before needing a signal from displays an estimate of how far
the GPS satellites. The compass the vehicle can be driven while in
The trip odometer is within the system will automatically determine this mode.
Driver Information Center. See when a GPS signal is restored and
Driver Information Center (DIC) on See Electric Mode on page 9‑21.
provide a heading.
page 5‑43 for more information.
Battery Gauge (High Fuel Gauge
Compass Voltage)
The vehicle has a compass display
in the instrument cluster above
the speedometer. The compass
receives its heading and other
information from the Global
Positioning System (GPS) antenna
and vehicle speed information.
The compass system has automatic
calibration and zone adjustment This indicator displays the fuel
features. level. When this indicator is in the
This indicator displays the high foreground, the vehicle is operating
Avoid covering the GPS antenna for
voltage battery charge level. in Extended Range Mode.
long periods of time with objects
that may interfere with the antenna's When this indicator is displayed The number next to the indicator
ability to receive a satellite signal. in the foreground, the vehicle is displays an estimate of how far the
See Multi-Band Antenna on operating in Electric Mode. The vehicle can be driven while in
page 7‑12 for the location of the number next to the indicator this mode.
vehicle's antenna. The compass
See Extended Range Mode on
system is designed to operate for a
page 9‑22.
certain number of miles or degrees
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
Driver Efficiency Gauge brake: If the ball turns yellow and Safety Belt Reminders
travels below the center of the
gauge, braking is too aggressive to Driver Safety Belt Reminder
optimize efficiency. Light
Passenger Safety Belt grocery bag, laptop, or other the corresponding safety belt
Reminder Light electronic device. To turn off the symbol in the instrument cluster
reminder light and/or chime, remove turns green. If a safety belt is not
the object from the seat or buckle initially buckled, the instrument
the safety belt. cluster displays a gray safety belt
symbol. While the vehicle is moving,
Second Row Passenger Safety if a second row passenger who
Belt Reminder Light was previously buckled becomes
unbuckled, the corresponding safety
belt symbol will change to flashing
When the vehicle is started, this red for several seconds and a chime
light flashes and a chime may come may sound.
on to remind the front passenger to
fasten their safety belt. The light
stays on solid until the belt is Airbag Readiness Light
buckled. This light shows if there is an
Second row seating positions
This cycle may continue several electrical problem. The system
monitored for safety belt use are
times if the front passenger remains check includes the airbag sensor,
represented by a colored symbol
or becomes unbuckled while the passenger sensing system, the
indicating safety belt status. When
vehicle is moving. pretensioners, the airbag modules,
the vehicle is started, two safety belt
the wiring, and the crash sensing
If the front passenger safety belt is symbols come on and stay on for
and diagnostic module. For more
buckled, neither the chime nor the several seconds in the instrument
information on the airbag system,
light comes on. cluster to alert the driver that
see Airbag System on page 3‑19.
passengers may need to fasten
The front passenger safety belt their safety belts. After the
reminder light and chime may turn passenger safety belt is buckled,
on if an object is put on the seat
such as a briefcase, handbag,
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
WARNING (Continued)
without a crash. To help avoid
injury, have the vehicle serviced
right away.
The airbag readiness light comes on United States
and stays on for several seconds Passenger Airbag Status
when the vehicle is started. Then Indicator
the light goes out.
The vehicle has a passenger
A message may also display in the
sensing system. See Passenger
Driver Information Center (DIC).
Sensing System on page 3‑26 for
See Airbag System Messages on important safety information. The
page 5‑51 for more information. passenger airbag status indicator is Canada
in the overhead console. When the vehicle is started, the
{ WARNING passenger airbag status indicator
will light ON and OFF, or the symbol
If the airbag readiness light stays for on and off for several seconds
on after the vehicle is started or as a system check. Then, after
comes on while driving, it means several more seconds, the status
the airbag system might not be indicator will light either ON or
working properly. The airbags in OFF, or the on or off symbol to let
the vehicle might not inflate in a you know the status of the front
crash, or they could even inflate outboard passenger frontal airbag
(Continued) and knee airbag.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (19,1)
cap allows fuel to evaporate into Emissions Inspection and Mode and the malfunction
the atmosphere. A few driving Maintenance Programs indicator lamp does not
trips with the cap properly come on. See your dealer for
installed should turn the light off. assistance in verifying proper
. Check that good quality fuel is operation of the malfunction
used. Poor fuel quality causes indicator lamp.
the engine not to run as . The vehicle may not pass
efficiently as designed and may this inspection if the OBD II
cause stalling after start-up or (On-Board Diagnostics) system
misfiring. These conditions might Some state and local governments determines that critical emission
go away once the engine is have or might begin programs control systems have not been
warmed up. to inspect the emission control completely diagnosed by the
If one or more of these equipment on the vehicle. Failure to system. The vehicle would
conditions occurs, change the pass this inspection could prevent be considered not ready for
fuel brand used. It will require at getting a vehicle registration. inspection. This can happen if
least one full tank of the proper the 12‐volt battery has recently
The DLC is under the instrument been replaced or if the 12‐volt
fuel to turn the light off. panel to the left of the steering battery has run down. The
If none of the above have made wheel. See your dealer if assistance diagnostic system is designed to
the light turn off, your dealer can is needed. evaluate critical emission control
check the vehicle. The dealer The vehicle may not pass systems during normal driving.
has the proper test equipment inspection if: This can take several days of
and diagnostic tools to fix any routine driving. If this has been
. The vehicle may not pass this
mechanical or electrical problems done and the vehicle still does
that might have developed. inspection if the malfunction not pass the inspection for lack
indicator lamp is on while the of OBD II system readiness, your
vehicle is in ON/RUN, or if the dealer can prepare the vehicle
vehicle is placed in Service Only for inspection.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (22,1)
brake system to work at a reduced and stays on while driving, try Sport Mode Light
level. The vehicle can still be driven, resetting the system. To reset the
but should be taken to a dealer as system:
soon as possible. See Electric 1. While driving, pull over when it is
Parking Brake on page 9‑30 for safe to do so.
more information. If a message
displays in the Driver Information 2. Place the vehicle in P (Park).
Center (DIC), see Brake System 3. Turn the vehicle off.
Messages on page 5‑46 for more
information. 4. Restart the vehicle. This light comes on when Sport
Mode is selected. See “Sport Mode”
If the ABS warning light remains on
in Driver Selected Operating Modes
Antilock Brake System after resetting the system or comes
on page 9‑22 for more information.
(ABS) Warning Light on again while driving, the vehicle
needs service. If the ABS warning
light is on, but the regular brake Mountain Mode Light
system warning light is not on, the
antilock brakes are not working
properly, but the regular brakes are
still functioning. Have the vehicle
serviced right away. If both brake
lights are on, the vehicle does not
This light should come on briefly have antilock brakes, and there is a
when the vehicle is in ON/RUN. If it problem with the regular brakes as This light comes on when Mountain
does not come on, have the vehicle well. Have the vehicle towed for Mode is selected. See “Mountain
serviced by your dealer. service. See Towing the Vehicle on Mode” in Driver Selected Operating
If the ABS warning light stays on page 10‑73. Modes on page 9‑22 for more
longer than a few seconds after the information.
vehicle is in ON/RUN, or comes on
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (24,1)
This light comes on briefly while This light comes on briefly while
starting the engine. If it does not, starting the engine. If it does not, This light comes on briefly while
have the vehicle serviced by your have the vehicle serviced by your starting the vehicle.
dealer. If the system is working dealer.
normally, the indicator light then If it does not, have the vehicle
This light comes on when the serviced by your dealer. If the
turns off. StabiliTrak system is turned off. system is working normally the
The traction off light comes on when If StabiliTrak is off, TCS is also off. indicator light then goes off.
the Traction Control System (TCS) If the Traction Control System (TCS)
has been turned off by pressing and If the light comes on and stays on
is off, the system does not assist in while driving, there could be a
releasing the TCS/ESC button. controlling the vehicle. Turn on the problem with the TCS/StabiliTrak
This light and the StabiliTrak Off TCS and the StabiliTrak systems system and the vehicle might need
light come on when StabiliTrak is and the warning light turns off. service. When this warning light is
turned off. on, the TCS/StabiliTrak system is off
If the TCS is off, wheelspin is not and does not limit wheel spin.
limited. Adjust driving accordingly. The light flashes if the system is
active and is working to assist the
driver with directional control of the
vehicle in difficult driving conditions.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (25,1)
{ WARNING
Do not keep driving if the oil
pressure is low. The engine can
become so hot that it catches fire. The oil pressure light should come
Someone could be burned. Check on briefly as the vehicle is started.
the oil as soon as possible and If it does not come on have the The low fuel warning light comes on
have the vehicle serviced. vehicle serviced by your dealer. briefly when the vehicle is started.
If the light comes on and stays on, it This light also comes on when the
Notice: Lack of proper engine oil means that oil is not flowing through fuel level is low. When fuel is added,
maintenance can damage the the engine properly. The vehicle the light should go off. If it does not,
engine. The repairs would not be could be low on oil and might have have the vehicle serviced.
covered by the vehicle warranty. some other system problem. See
Always follow the maintenance your dealer.
schedule for changing engine oil.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (27,1)
The immobilizer light should come The vehicle ready light comes on This light comes on when the
on briefly as the engine is started. whenever the vehicle is ready to be parking lamps, headlamps,
If it does not come on, have the driven. or taillamps are on.
vehicle serviced by your dealer.
If the system is working normally, High-Beam On Light Cruise Control Light
the indicator light turns off.
If the light stays on and the engine
does not start, there could be a
problem with the theft-deterrent
system. See Immobilizer Operation
on page 2‑15 for more information.
Charging Override/Interruption
. There was an unintended loss
Pop-Up of AC power during the plug-in
charge event. For example,
there was a power outage or the
charge cord was unplugged from
the wall.
. The charge process was
interrupted by the utility
company via OnStar as
authorized by the vehicle owner When the Programmable Charging
(available in select regions). system is disabled, the Default
For more information see Utility Charge Mode Status screen and the
The Charging Override/Interruption Interruption of Charging on pop-up will display “- -:- -” for the
pop-up will appear if any of the page 9‑52. Charge Complete Time. The
following conditions occur: Programmable Charging system will
Programmable Charging be disabled if the Charge Complete
. The charging settings have been Time cannot be confidently
modified via OnStar through the
Disabled
estimated. If the Programmable
website or the Mobile App. For Charging system is consistently
example, the Departure Time disabled, see your dealer for details.
Tables, the Rate Tables, or the
Charge Mode were updated
using the customer website
(available in select regions).
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (41,1)
Display: Press Display to turn the displays trip, fuel, and warning SELECT: Press the center of the
display of the time on the screen on messages if a system problem is knob to select the highlighted item.
or off. detected. Turn the knob to scroll through the
menu items.
DIC Controls
Driver Information DIC Menu Items
Center (DIC)
At the main DIC menu:
1. Turn the SELECT knob to scroll
through the possible DIC menus.
2. Press the center of the SELECT
knob when a menu item is
highlighted to enter that menu.
3. Continue to turn and press the
SELECT knob to scroll through
and select the available menu
The Driver Information Center (DIC) items:
display is in the instrument cluster. CONFIG: Press to select either the } : Trip A
The DIC displays information about Simple or Enhanced instrument
the vehicle. It also displays warning
x : Trip B
cluster configuration display.
messages if a system problem is : : Oil Life
detected. See Vehicle Messages on } BACK: Press to return to the
previous screen, exit a screen, v : Tire Pressure
page 5‑45 for more information.
or return to the main menu. { : Vehicle Messages
DIC Operation and Displays Press } BACK to minimize the z : Units
View the DIC displays by pressing DIC menu display.
the DIC buttons located to the left
y : Tutorial Mode
of the steering wheel. The DIC u : Turn-by-Turn
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (44,1)
Trip A and Trip B To reset the Engine Oil Life System, Units
The trip displays show fuel used, see Engine Oil Life System on Turn the SELECT knob to change
average fuel economy, and distance page 10‑12. The system is reset the unit display to METRIC or US
traveled since the last trip reset. when 100% displays. when the display is active. Press
Reset the trip data by pressing and Tire Pressure SELECT to confirm the setting. This
holding the SELECT button when will change the displays on the
The display will show a vehicle with cluster and DIC to either metric or
either Trip A or Trip B is displayed. the approximate pressures of all English (US) measurements.
Oil Life four tires. Tire pressure is displayed
in either kilopascals (kPa) or in Tutorial Mode
This displays the percentage of pounds per square inch (psi).
remaining oil life. The lower Select this menu item to view a
the percentage, the closer the If a low or high tire pressure is screen that explains some of the
vehicle is to needing an oil change. detected, a message is displayed unique features of the cluster.
advising to check the tire pressure Tutorial mode is only available when
When the oil life is depleted, the in the specified tire. See Tire
CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON the vehicle is in P (Park).
Pressure on page 10‑46 and Tire
message displays. Change the oil Messages on page 5‑52 for more Turn-by-Turn
as soon as possible. Additional information.
maintenance is also recommended Select this menu item to view the
in the Maintenance Schedule. If the tire pressure display shows OnStar or Navigation System
See Maintenance Schedule on dashes instead of a value, there Turn-by-Turn guidance. See OnStar
page 11‑3 and Engine Oil on may be a problem with the vehicle. Overview on page 14‑1 or the
page 10‑9. See your dealer for service. navigation manual, if the vehicle has
navigation, for more information.
The oil life must be reset after Vehicle Messages
each oil change. Avoid accidental Turn the SELECT knob to scroll
resetting of the Engine Oil Life through any active warning
System. It cannot be reset messages. Press SELECT to
accurately until the next oil change. review the messages.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (45,1)
Vehicle Messages The 12-volt battery saver system CHARGE DOOR OPEN
starts reducing certain features
Messages displayed in the DIC This message displays when the
trying to save the charge of the
indicate the status of the vehicle or charge door is open and the vehicle
12-volt battery. Turn off unnecessary
some action that may be needed is shifted out of P (Park).
features to allow the battery to
to correct a condition. Multiple recharge. LOW BATTERY
messages may display one after the
other. BATTERY TOO COLD, PLUG IN This message displays when the
TO WARM 12-volt battery voltage is low. See
Messages that do not require Battery on page 10‑23 for more
immediate action can be This message displays during information.
acknowledged and cleared by extremely cold temperatures, when
pressing the SELECT knob. The the vehicle will not start until the SERVICE BATTERY
messages requiring immediate high voltage battery is warm CHARGING SYSTEM
action cannot be cleared until that enough.
This message displays when there
action is performed. All messages Plug the vehicle in to allow the is a fault in the 12-volt battery
should be taken seriously. Clearing charging system to warm the high charging system. Take the vehicle
the messages does not correct the voltage battery, then the vehicle can to your dealer for service.
problem. be started.
SERVICE HIGH VOLTAGE
Battery and Charging CHARGE CORD CONNECTED CHARGING SYSTEM
Messages This message displays when the This message displays when there
charge cord is connected to the is a problem with the high voltage
BATTERY SAVER ACTIVE vehicle. The vehicle cannot be charging system. See your dealer
This message displays when the shifted out of P (Park) with the for service.
vehicle has detected that the 12-volt charge cord connected.
battery voltage has dropped and
vehicle features are being disabled.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (46,1)
OIL PRESSURE LOW — TURN When this message is displayed, Key and Lock Messages
VEHICLE OFF refuel the vehicle. See Out of Fuel/
Engine Unavailable on page 9‑24. When programming new Remote
This message displays if low oil Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitters,
pressure levels occur. Stop the FUEL LEVEL LOW DIC messages display. See Remote
vehicle as soon as safely possible Keyless Entry (RKE) System
This message displays when the
and do not operate it until the cause Operation on page 2‑2 for more
vehicle is low on fuel. Refuel as
of the low oil pressure has been information.
soon as possible.
corrected. Check the oil as soon as
possible and have the vehicle READY TO REFUEL NO REMOTE DETECTED
serviced by your dealer. This message displays when the
This message displays when the
fuel system is depressurized and RKE transmitter is not detected
Fuel System Messages the vehicle can be refueled. while attempting to start the vehicle.
The transmitter battery may be
CLOSE FUEL DOOR TIGHTEN GAS CAP weak. See “Starting the Vehicle with
This message displays when the a Low Transmitter Battery” under
This message displays when the
fuel door is open and the vehicle is Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
fuel cap is not on tight. Tighten the
moving. System Operation on page 2‑2 for
fuel cap.
more information.
ENGINE NOT AVAILABLE WAIT TO REFUEL
ADD FUEL
This message displays when the
This message displays when the fuel system is pressurized and you
engine is not available due to must to wait to refuel the vehicle.
running out of fuel. The vehicle can
continue to be driven in Electric
Mode until the battery is depleted,
but will have reduced acceleration.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (49,1)
TRACTION CONTROL OFF SERVICE THEFT DETERRENT When this message is displayed,
SYSTEM the vehicle should be taken to your
This message displays when the
dealer for service as soon as
Traction Control System (TCS) is This message displays if there is a possible. See Out of Fuel/Engine
turned off. Adjust your driving problem with the theft-deterrent Unavailable on page 9‑24.
accordingly. system. See your dealer for service.
SERVICE AC SYSTEM
TRACTION CONTROL ON
Service Vehicle Messages This message displays if there is a
This message displays when the
ENGINE MAINTENANCE problem with the air conditioning
Traction Control System (TCS) is
system. Take the vehicle to your
turned on. XXX% COMPLETE
dealer for service.
This message displays when the
Airbag System Messages Engine Maintenance Mode is SERVICE HEATER SOON
SERVICE AIRBAG running. See “Engine Maintenance This message displays if there is a
Mode” under Maintenance Modes problem with the heater system.
This message displays if there is a on page 9‑24. Take the vehicle to your dealer for
problem with the airbag system. service.
Take the vehicle to your dealer for ENGINE NOT AVAILABLE
service. SERVICE SOON SERVICE POWER STEERING
This message displays when the This message displays if there is a
Anti-theft Alarm System engine is not available due to a problem with the power steering
Messages malfunction that will not allow the system. Take the vehicle to your
engine to start. The vehicle can dealer for service.
SERVICE THEFT ALARM continue to be driven in Electric
This message displays if there is a Mode until the battery is depleted,
problem with the alarm. See your but will have reduced acceleration.
dealer for service.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (52,1)
SERVICE VEHICLE SOON PRESS BUTTON AGAIN TO TIRE LOW ADD AIR TO TIRE
This message displays if there is a TURN OFF This message displays when the
problem with the vehicle. Take the This message displays as pressure in one or more of the tires
vehicle to your dealer for service. a reminder to press the is low.
Depending on the severity of a POWER O button to turn the This message also displays LEFT
crash, this message may come on vehicle off when an attempt is FRONT, RIGHT FRONT, LEFT
along with the airbag readiness made to turn off the vehicle while REAR, or RIGHT REAR to indicate
light. it is in motion. the location of the low tire.
Starting the Vehicle The low tire pressure warning
Tire Messages light will also come on. See Tire
Messages Pressure Light on page 5‑25.
SERVICE TIRE MONITOR
PRESS BRAKE TO START SYSTEM If a tire pressure message appears
VEHICLE on the DIC, stop as soon as you
This message displays if there is a
can. Inflate the tires by adding air
This message displays when problem with the Tire Pressure
until the tire pressure is equal to
attempting to start the vehicle Monitor System (TPMS). See Tire
the values shown on the Tire and
without first pressing the brake Pressure Monitor Operation on
Loading Information label. See Tires
pedal. page 10‑48 for more information.
on page 10‑40, Vehicle Load Limits
TIRE LEARNING ACTIVE on page 9‑11, and Tire Pressure on
page 10‑46.
This message displays when the
system is learning new tires. See You can receive more than one tire
Tire Pressure Monitor Operation on pressure message at a time. The
page 10‑48 for more information. DIC also shows the tire pressure
values. See Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑43.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (53,1)
Climate and Air Quality To select the auto fan speed: To turn the auto heated seats on
1. Press the Vehicle or off:
Select the Climate and Air Quality
menu to display: Settings menu. 1. Press the Vehicle
2. Select Climate and Air Quality. Settings menu.
. Auto Fan Speed
3. Select Auto Fan Speed. 2. Select Climate and Air Quality.
. Auto Heated Seats
4. Select the fan speed. 3. Turn the auto heated seats
. Remote Start Auto Heated Seats
feature on or off.
. Auto Defog 5. Press Back to return to the
previous menu. 4. Press Back to return to the
. Engine Assisted Heating previous menu.
. Engine Assisted Heating Auto Heated Seats
Remote Start Auto Heated Seats
(Plugged‐In) When enabled, the auto heated seat
buttons on the touch screen will When on, this feature will turn the
Auto Fan Speed heated seats on when using remote
be highlighted. This feature will
This feature sets the automatic fan automatically activate heated seats start.
speed to maintain the desired at the level required by the interior To turn the remote start auto heated
interior temperature. This selection temperature. The auto heated seats seats on or off:
is available on vehicles with the can be turned off by using the 1. Press the Vehicle
automatic climate control system. heated seat buttons on the center Settings menu.
Choose a blower setting: stack.
2. Select Climate and Air Quality.
High: Increased speed.
3. Turn the remote start auto
Medium: Moderate speed.
heated seats feature on or off.
Low: Reduced speed.
4. Press Back to return to the
previous menu.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (56,1)
Auto Defog The Engine Assisted Heating The Engine Assisted Heating
When on and high humidity is options are: options are:
detected, the climate control system . At Cold Outside Temperatures . At Cold Outside Temperatures
will adjust the outside air, air . At Very Cold Outside . At Very Cold Outside
conditioner, or heat to decrease Temperatures Temperatures
fogging. The fan speed may
increase. When high humidity is no To select the outside temperature To turn the Engine Assisted Heating
longer detected, the system will level: (Plugged‐In) on or off:
return to previous operation. 1. Press the Vehicle menu. 1. Press the Vehicle menu.
To turn the auto defog on or off: 2. Select Climate and Air Quality. 2. Select Climate and Air Quality.
1. Press the Vehicle 3. Select the temperature level. 3. Turn the Engine Assisted
Settings menu. Heating (Plugged‐In) feature on
4. Press Back to return to the
2. Select Climate and Air Quality. previous menu. or off.
3. Turn the auto defog feature on 4. Press Back to return to the
Engine Assisted Heating previous menu.
or off. (Plugged‐In)
4. Press Back to return to the If equipped, this feature will enable Comfort and Convenience
previous menu. or disable Engine Assisted Heating Select the Comfort and
Engine Assisted Heating whenever the vehicle is plugged in. Convenience menu and the
A change in setting will not take following will be displayed:
If equipped, this feature selects affect until after the vehicle is first
the outside temperature level at . Chime Volume
powered down.
which the engine may run to assist . Button Chime
heating in Electric Mode. A change
in selection will not take affect . Energy Summary Exit Pop‐up
until after the vehicle is first
powered down.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (57,1)
Languages The available options are: To turn the vehicle locator lights on
. OFF or off:
This allows the selection of a
language: . 30 seconds 1. Press the Vehicle
Settings menu.
1. Press the Vehicle . 1 minute
Settings menu. 2. Select Lighting.
. 2 minutes
2. Select Languages. 3. Select Vehicle Locator Lights.
To select the length of time the
3. Select English, French, exterior lamps will remain on: 4. Turn the vehicle locator lights on
or Spanish. or off.
1. Press the Vehicle
4. Press Back to return to the Settings menu. 5. Press Back to return to the
previous menu. previous menu.
2. Select Lighting.
Lighting Power Door Locks
3. Select Exit Lighting.
Select the Lighting menu and the Select Power Door Locks and the
4. Select the length of time the following will be displayed:
following will be displayed:
exterior lamps will remain on.
. Exit Lighting . Auto Door Unlock
5. Press Back to return to the
. Vehicle Locator Lights previous menu. . Unlocked Door Anti Lock Out
Exit Lighting Vehicle Locator Lights
. Delayed Door Lock
This allows the selection of how This allows the vehicle locator Auto Door Unlock
long the exterior lamps stay on lights to be turned on or off. When This allows selection of which doors
when leaving the vehicle and it is on, the headlamps, parking lamps, will automatically unlock when the
dark outside. taillamps, license plate lamps, vehicle is shifted into P (Park).
and back-up lamps will illuminate
when K is pressed on the RKE
transmitter.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (59,1)
The available options are: To turn the unlocked door anti lock 3. Select Delayed Door Lock.
. All Doors out feature on or off: 4. Turn the delayed door lock
. Driver Door 1. Press the Vehicle feature on or off.
Settings menu. 5. Press Back to return to the
. OFF
2. Select Power Door Locks. previous menu.
To select how the doors will
automatically unlock: 3. Select Unlocked Door Anti Remote Locking, Unlocking,
Lock Out. Starting
1. Press the Vehicle
Settings menu. 4. Turn the unlocked door anti lock Select Remote Locking, Unlocking,
out feature on or off. Starting and the following will be
2. Select Power Door Locks.
5. Press Back to return to the displayed:
3. Select Auto Door Unlock. previous menu. . Remote Lock Feedback
4. Select how the doors will Delayed Door Lock . Remote Unlock Light Feedback
automatically unlock.
When on, this feature will delay the . Door Unlock or Remote Door
5. Press Back to return to the locking of the doors. To override the Unlock
previous menu. delay, press the power door lock
switch on the center stack.
. Remote Left in Vehicle Reminder
Unlocked Door Anti Lock Out
To turn the delayed door lock
. Passive Unlocking Door Options
When on, this feature will keep the
driver door from locking until the feature on or off: . Passive Locking Options
door is closed. If this feature is 1. Press the Vehicle
turned on, the Delayed Door Lock Settings menu.
menu will not be available.
2. Select Power Door Locks.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (60,1)
Remote Lock Feedback Remote Unlock Light Feedback The available options are:
This allows selection of what When on, the exterior lamps will . All Doors
feedback is provided when flash when unlocking the vehicle . Driver Door
unlocking the vehicle with the with the RKE transmitter.
RKE transmitter. If All Doors is selected, all doors will
To turn the remote unlock light be unlocked.
The available options are: feedback feature on or off:
.
If Driver Door is selected, only
Lights and Horn 1. Press the Vehicle the driver door will be unlocked
. Lights Only Settings menu.
on the first press of K. All doors
. Horn Only 2. Select Remote Locking, will be unlocked on the second
Unlocking, Starting.
. OFF press of K within five seconds of
3. Select Remote Unlock Light the prior press.
To select the remote lock feedback: Feedback.
To select how the doors will unlock
1. Press the Vehicle 4. Turn the remote unlock light with the RKE transmitter:
Settings menu. feedback feature on or off.
1. Press the Vehicle
2. Select Remote Locking, 5. Press Back to return to the Settings menu.
Unlocking, Starting. previous menu.
2. Select Remote Locking,
3. Select Remote Lock Feedback. Door Unlock or Remote Door Unlocking, Starting.
4. Select the remote feedback. Unlock
3. Select Door Unlock or Remote
5. Press Back to return to the This allows selection of which doors Door Unlock.
previous menu. will unlock when pressing K on the 4. Select how the doors will unlock.
RKE transmitter.
5. Press Back to return to the
previous menu.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (61,1)
Remote Left in Vehicle Reminder To select how the doors will unlock: To select doors locking feedback:
When on, the horn will chirp rapidly 1. Press the Vehicle 1. Press the Vehicle
three times if an RKE transmitter is Settings menu. Settings menu.
left in the vehicle. 2. Select Remote Locking, 2. Select Remote Locking,
To turn the remote left in vehicle Unlocking, Starting. Unlocking, Starting.
reminder feature on or off: 3. Select Passive Door Unlock. 3. Select Passive Door Lock.
1. Press the Vehicle 4. Select which doors to unlock. 4. Select On, Off, or On with Active
Settings menu. Horn Chirp.
5. Press Back to return to the
2. Select Remote Locking, previous menu. 5. Press Back to return to the
Unlocking, Starting. previous menu.
3. Select Remote Left in Vehicle Passive Door Lock
Reminder. This allows passive locking to be Return to Factory Settings
4. Turn the remote left in vehicle turned on or off and select what This returns all of the vehicle
reminder feature on or off. type of feedback. personalization settings to the
The available options are: factory settings.
5. Press Back to return to the
previous menu. . Off 1. Press the Vehicle
Settings menu.
Passive Door Unlock . On
2. Select Return to Factory
. On with Active Horn Chirp
This allows selection of which doors Settings.
are unlocked by pressing the button
3. Select Yes or No.
on the outside door handle.
4. Press Back to return to the
The available options are:
previous menu.
. All Doors
. Driver Door
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (62,1)
Universal Remote devices such as garage door When programming a garage door,
openers, security systems, and park outside of the garage. Park
System home automation devices. directly in line with and facing the
Do not use the Universal Remote garage door opener motor-head or
See Radio Frequency Statement on
system with any garage door opener gate motor-head. Be sure that
page 13‑16 for information
that does not have the stop and people and objects are clear of
regarding Part 15 of the Federal
reverse feature. This includes any the garage door or gate being
Communications Commission (FCC)
garage door opener model programmed.
rules and Industry Canada
Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310. manufactured before April 1,1982. It is recommended that a new
Read the instructions completely battery be installed in the hand-held
Universal Remote System before attempting to program the transmitter for quicker and more
accurate transmission of the
Programming Universal Remote system. Because
radio-frequency signal.
of the steps involved, it may be
helpful to have another person Programming the Universal
available to assist with programming Remote System
the Universal Remote system.
For questions or help programming
Keep the original hand-held the Universal Remote system,
transmitter for use in other vehicles call 1‐800‐355‐3515 or go to
as well as for future Universal www.homelink.com.
If the vehicle has this feature, you Remote system programming. It is
also recommended that upon the Programming a garage door opener
will see these buttons with one involves time-sensitive actions, so
LED indicator next to them in the sale of the vehicle, the programmed
Universal Remote system buttons read the entire procedure before
overhead console. starting. Otherwise, the device will
be erased for security purposes.
This system provides a way to See “Erasing Universal Remote time out and the procedure will have
replace up to three remote control System Buttons” later in this to be repeated.
transmitters used to activate section.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (63,1)
To program up to three devices: procedure noted in “Gate does not move, continue
1. Hold the end of the hand-held Operator and Canadian with programming Steps 4
transmitter about 3 to 8 cm Programming” later in this through 6.
(1 to 3 in) away from the section. It may be helpful to have
Universal Remote system 3. Press and hold for five seconds another person assist with
buttons while keeping the the newly trained Universal the remaining Steps 4
indicator light in view. The Remote system button (the through 6.
hand-held transmitter was button selected in Step 2) while
supplied by the manufacturer observing the indicator light and
of the garage door opener garage door activation.
receiver (motor-head unit). . If the indicator light stays on
2. At the same time, press and continuously or the garage
hold both the hand-held door starts to move when
transmitter button and one of the the Universal Remote
three Universal Remote system system button is pressed
buttons to be used to operate and released, then the
the garage door. Do not release programming is complete. “Learn” or “Smart” Button
the Universal Remote system There is no need to 4. After Steps 1 through 3 have
button or the hand-held continue programming been completed, locate the
transmitter button until the Steps 4 through 6. “Learn” or “Smart” button inside
indicator light changes from a . If the Universal Remote the garage on the garage door
slowly to a rapidly flashing light. system indicator light blinks opener receiver (motor-head
You now may release both rapidly for two seconds, unit). The name and color
buttons. then turns to a constant of the button may vary by
Some entry gates and garage light and the garage door manufacturer.
door openers may require
substitution of Step 2 with the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (64,1)
5. Firmly press and release the The Universal Remote system If you live in Canada, or you are
“Learn” or “Smart” button. After should now activate the having difficulty programming a gate
pressing this button, you will garage door. operator or garage door opener
have 30 seconds to complete To program the remaining two by using the “Programming the
Step 6. Universal Remote system buttons, Universal Remote System”
6. Immediately return to the begin with Step 1 of “Programming procedures, regardless of where
vehicle. Firmly press and hold the Universal Remote System.” you live, replace Step 2 under
for two seconds the Universal “Programming the Universal Remote
Remote system button, selected Gate Operator and Canadian System” with the following:
in Step 2 to control the garage Programming Continue to press and hold the
door, and then release it. If the If you have questions or need help Universal Remote system button
garage door does not move or programming the Universal Remote while you press and release every
the lamp on the garage door system, call 1‐800‐355‐3515 or go two seconds (cycle) the hand-held
opener receiver (motor-head to www.homelink.com. transmitter button until the
unit) does not flash, press and frequency signal has been
hold the same button a second Canadian radio-frequency laws successfully accepted by the
time for two seconds, and then require transmitter signals to time Universal Remote system. The
release it. Again, if the door out or quit after several seconds of Universal Remote system indicator
does not move or the garage transmission. This may not be long light will flash slowly at first and then
door lamp does not flash, press enough for the Universal Remote rapidly. Proceed with Step 3 under
and hold the same button a third system to pick up the signal during “Programming the Universal Remote
time for two seconds, and then programming. Similarly, some U.S. System” to complete.
release. gate operators are manufactured to
time out in the same manner.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (65,1)
Universal Remote System To erase all programmed buttons 2. The indicator light will begin to
on the Universal Remote system flash after 20 seconds. Without
Operation device: releasing the button, proceed
Using the Universal Remote 1. Press and hold down the with Step 1 of the section
System two outside buttons until the “Programming the Universal
indicator light begins to flash. Remote System.”
Press and hold the appropriate
Universal Remote system button This should take about If you have questions or need help
for at least half of a second. The 10 seconds. programming the Universal Remote
indicator light will come on while the 2. Release both buttons. system, call 1‐800‐355‐3515 or go
signal is being transmitted. to www.homelink.com. You may
Reprogramming a Single also call the customer assistance
Erasing Universal Remote Universal Remote System phone number under Customer
System Buttons Button Assistance Offices on page 13‑3.
All programmed buttons should be To reprogram any of the three
erased when the vehicle is sold or Universal Remote system buttons:
the lease ends.
1. Press and hold the desired
Universal Remote system
button. Do not release the
button.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (66,1)
2 NOTES
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
Lighting 6-1
6-2 Lighting
Lighting 6-3
When the exterior lamp control band Hazard Warning Flashers Turn and Lane-Change
is turned to the headlamp position,
the low-beam headlamps come on.
Signals
The other lamps that come on with
the headlamps will also come on.
When the vehicle is on and you are
stopped, the DRL can be turned off
by moving the shift lever to P (Park).
The DRL will stay off until the shift
lever is moved out of the P (Park)
position. An arrow on the instrument cluster
will flash in the direction of the turn
The regular headlamp system or lane change.
should be turned on when needed.
Move the lever all the way up or
down to signal a turn.
| (Hazard Warning Flasher):
Press this button, on the center
stack, to make the front and rear
turn signal lamps flash on and off.
This warns others that you are
having trouble.
Press | again to turn the
flashers off.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
6-4 Lighting
Raise or lower the lever until the Interior Lighting Dome Lamps
arrow starts to flash to signal a lane
change. Hold it there until the lane
change is complete. If the lever is Instrument Panel
moved momentarily to the lane Illumination Control
change position, the arrow will flash
three times.
The lever returns to its starting
position when it is released.
If a turn signal arrow flashes rapidly
or does not come on, a signal bulb
may need to be replaced. See Bulb The dome lamp controls are in the
Replacement on page 10‑26. overhead console.
To operate, press the following
The brightness of the instrument buttons:
panel cluster display, infotainment ' (On): Press to turn on the
display and controls, steering wheel dome lamps.
controls, and all other illuminated
controls, as well as feature status
H (Door): Press to turn the lamps
on automatically when a door is
indicators can be adjusted.
opened.
The thumbwheel is on the
instrument panel beside the steering
( (Off): Press to turn the lamps
off, even when a door is open.
column.
Move the thumbwheel up or down to
brighten or dim the lights.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
Lighting 6-5
6-6 Lighting
Infotainment Phone
Bluetooth (Overview) . . . . . . . . 7-20
Introduction
System Bluetooth (Infotainment
Controls) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-21 Infotainment
Bluetooth (Voice Read the following pages to
Introduction Recognition) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-25 become familiar with the audio
Infotainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1 system's features.
Trademarks and License
Theft-Deterrent Feature . . . . . . . 7-2
Agreements
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Trademarks and License { WARNING
Radio Agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-31 Taking your eyes off the road
AM-FM Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-7 for extended periods could
Satellite Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-9 cause a crash resulting in injury
Radio Reception . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-11
or death to you or others. Do
Multi-Band Antenna . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
not give extended attention to
Audio Players entertainment tasks while driving.
CD Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12
MP3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14
This system provides access
Auxiliary Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-15
to many audio and non‐audio
listings.
To minimize taking your eyes off the
road while driving, do the following
while the vehicle is parked:
. Become familiar with the
operation and controls of the
audio system.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (2,1)
A. F (Home Page)
B. SOURCE
C. V
D. TUNE/MENU
E. } BACK
F. TONE
G. CONFIG
H. X (Eject)
I. FAV (Favories)
J. AS 1–2
K. INFO (Information)
L. VOL/ O (Volume/Power)
M. k (Play/Pause)
N. TP (Time Program)
O. ? (Mute)
P. r SEEK and SEEK [
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
Infotainment Control Buttons CONFIG (Configure): Press to preset buttons at the bottom of
adjust features for radio, display, the screen. The number of preset
The buttons on the faceplate are
phone, vehicle, and time. FAV lists can be changed in the
used to start primary functions while
F (Home Page): See “Home Configuration Menu.
using the infotainment system.
Page” following in this section. r SEEK (Seek Down):
VOL/O (Volume/Power):
TUNE/MENU: Turn to highlight 1. Press to seek to the beginning
1. Press to turn the system on a feature. Press to activate the of the current or previous track.
and off. highlighted feature. Turn to If the track has been playing for
2. Turn to adjust the volume. manually select a radio station. less than five seconds, it seeks
5 (Phone Menu): See Bluetooth the previous track. If longer than
k (Play/Pause): Press k to start, five seconds, the current track
pause, and resume playback. See (Overview) on page 7‑20 or
Bluetooth (Infotainment Controls) on starts from the beginning.
CD Player on page 7‑12 and MP3
on page 7‑14 for more information. page 7‑21 or Bluetooth (Voice 2. Press and hold to quickly
Recognition) on page 7‑25 for more reverse through a track. Release
SOURCE: Press to change the information. the button to return to playing
audio sources such as AM-FM speed. See CD Player on
Radio, XM™ (if equipped), CD, } BACK: Press to return to the
page 7‑12 and MP3 on
and AUX. previous screen in a menu.
page 7‑14 for more information.
TONE: Press to access the If on a page accessed directly by a
faceplate button or Home Page 3. For AM, FM, or XM (if equipped),
sound menu screen to adjust bass, press to seek to the previous
midrange, and treble. See AM-FM screen button, pressing } BACK will strong station.
Radio on page 7‑7 for more go to previous menu.
information.
FAV (Favorite Pages 1-6): Press
SEEK [ (Seek Up):
INFO (Information): Press to to display the current page number 1. Press to seek the next track.
toggle through an audio information above the preset buttons. The 2. Press and hold to fast forward
screen. stored stations for each list through a track.
display on the touch-sensitive
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
3. Release the button to return to Home Page Out of all available Home Page
playing speed. See CD Player icons, up to eight icons can be
The infotainment system displays a
on page 7‑12 and MP3 on selected and sorted for the first
home page that makes accessing
page 7‑14 for more information. Home Page screen.
many of the features an easy
4. For AM, FM, or XM (if equipped), process. Home Page Features
press to seek to the next strong
Back: If on page two of the Home Various functions are disabled when
station.
Page, touch Back to return to page the vehicle is moving.
Preset Buttons (1-6): The preset one of the Home Page. If on page
buttons numbered one through six one, Back serves no function. Press the Now Playing screen
can be used to select stored AM, button to display the active source
Home: While navigating through page. The sources available are
FM, and XM (if equipped) stations.
other menus, press to go back to AM, FM, XM (if equipped), CD,
TP (Time Program): Press to set the Home Page to start a different USB/iPod, and AUX.
the time. feature.
See AM-FM Radio on page 7‑7,
X (Eject): Press to eject a disc FAV: Press to display a page of Satellite Radio on page 7‑9, and CD
from the CD player. See CD Player stored (favorite) AM, FM, or XM (if Player on page 7‑12
on page 7‑12. equipped) stations. Keep pressing
FAV to scroll through the favorite Press the Phone screen button to
Touch Screen Buttons pages. display the Phone main page. See
Touch screen buttons are on the Bluetooth (Overview) on page 7‑20
Info: Press to toggle through an or Bluetooth (Infotainment Controls)
screen and highlighted when a audio information screen.
feature is available. Some toggle on page 7‑21 or Bluetooth (Voice
screen buttons highlight when active The Home Page Menu lists the Recognition) on page 7‑25.
and gray out when inactive. options Customize Home Page and
Restore Home Page Defaults.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
No Information: The system is Check Antenna: If this message especially around tall buildings or
working properly. No text or does not clear within a short period hills, causing the sound to fade in
informational messages are of time, the receiver could have a and out.
available at this time on this fault. Consult with your dealer.
channel. AM
XM Not Available: If this message
No XM Signal: The system is does not clear within a short period The range for most AM stations is
working properly. The vehicle may of time, the receiver could have a greater than for FM, especially at
be in a location where the XM signal fault. Consult with your dealer. night. The longer range can cause
is being blocked. When the vehicle station frequencies to interfere with
each other. Static can occur when
is moved into an open area, the Radio Reception things like storms and power lines
signal should return.
Frequency interference and static interfere with radio reception. When
CAT Not Found: The system is can occur during normal radio this happens, try reducing the treble
working properly. There are no reception if items such as cell phone on the radio.
channels available for the selected chargers, vehicle convenience
category. accessories, and external electronic XM™ Satellite Radio Service
XM Radio ID: If tuned to channel 0, devices are plugged into the XM Satellite Radio Service gives
this message alternates with the XM accessory power outlet. If there is digital radio reception from coast to
radio eight‐digit radio ID label. This interference or static, unplug the coast in the 48 contiguous United
label is needed to activate the item from the accessory power States, and in Canada. Just as
service. outlet. with FM, tall buildings or hills can
interfere with satellite radio signals,
Unknown: If this message is FM causing the sound to fade in and
received when tuned to channel 0,
FM signals only reach about 16 to out. In addition, traveling or standing
there could be a receiver fault.
65 km (10 to 40 mi). Although the under heavy foliage, bridges,
Consult with your dealer.
radio has a built-in electronic circuit garages, or tunnels may cause loss
that automatically works to reduce of the XM signal for a period of time.
interference, some static can occur,
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
Loading and Ejecting Discs 2. From the CD screen, press the SEEK [ (Seek Up):
Menu screen button to display
To load a disc: . Press to seek to the next track.
the menu options.
1. Turn the vehicle on. . Press and hold to fast forward
3. Press to select the desired
2. Insert a disc into the slot, label option. through a track. Release the
side up. The player pulls it in the button to return to playing
On the CD main page a track speed. Elapsed time displays.
rest of the way. If the disc is
number displays at the beginning of
damaged or improperly loaded, TUNE/MENU: Turn to the right or
each track. Song, Artist, and Album
there is an error and the disc left to select the next or previous
information displays when available.
ejects. track. Press this knob to select the
Use the following controls to play ist. If a track is selected from the
The disc automatically plays once
the disc: menu, the system plays the track
loaded.
k (Play/Pause): Use to start, and returns to the CD screen.
Press X to eject a disc from the pause, or resume play.
CD player. If the disc is not removed Error Messages
within a short period of time, it is r SEEK (Seek Down): If Disc Error displays and/or the disc
automatically pulled back into the . Press to seek to the beginning comes out, it could be for one of the
player. of the current or previous track. following reasons:
If the track has been playing for .
Playing an Audio CD less than five seconds, it seeks
The disc has an invalid or
unknown format.
1. Press the CD screen button on to the previous track. If longer
the Home Page or select CD than five seconds, the current . The disc is very hot. Try the disc
from the source pop-up to track starts from the beginning. again when the temperature
display the CD main page. returns to normal.
. Press and hold to fast reverse
through a track. Release the . The road is very rough. Try the
button to return to playing disc again when the road is
speed. Elapsed time displays. smoother.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (14,1)
Connect a 3.5 mm (1/8 in) cable USB MP3 Player and USB Drives
. WMA with Digital Rights
from the auxiliary device to the Management (DRM) from online
. The USB MP3 players and USB music shops cannot be played.
auxiliary input jack. When a drives connected must comply
device is connected, the system WMA files can only be played
with the USB Mass Storage back safely if they were created
automatically begins playing audio Class specification (USB MSC).
from the device over the vehicle with Windows Media Player
speakers. . Only USB MP3 players and USB version 8 or later.
drives with a sector size or ‐ Applicable playlist extensions
If an auxiliary device has already 512 bytes and a cluster size
been connected, but a different are: .m3u, .pls.
smaller or equal to 32 kbytes in
source is currently active, press the the FAT32 file system are ‐ Playlist entries must be in the
Now Playing screen button on the supported. form of relative paths.
Home Page, then press Source
repeatedly to cycle through all of the . Hard disk drives are not ‐ The system attribute for
available audio source screens, until supported. folders/files that contain audio
the AUX source screen is selected. data must not be set.
. The following restrictions apply
for the data stored on a USB To play a USB device, do one of the
Playing from a USB following:
MP3 player or USB device:
A USB mass storage device or . Connect the USB and it begins
Microsoft Transfer Protocal (MTP) ‐ Maximum folder structure
depth: 11 levels. to play.
device can be connected to the
USB port. ‐ Maximum number of MP3/
. Press the Now Playing screen
WMA files that can be button on the Home Page, then
The USB port is in the center press the SOURCE button on
console. displayed: 1,000
the faceplate repeatedly to cycle
The USB icon displays when the through all of the available audio
USB device is connected. source screens, until the USB
source screen is selected.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (17,1)
While the USB source is active, use USB Menu There might be a delay before the
the following to operate USB Press any of the following buttons list displays. Select a song from the
function: on the USB Menu: list to begin playback.
k (Play/Pause): Press to start, Shuffle Songs: Press to play the Song Titles: Press to display a list
pause, or resume play of the current tracks randomly. Press again to stop of all songs on the USB. Songs are
media source. shuffle. displayed as stored on the disc.
r SEEK (Seek Down): There might be a delay before the
Playlists: Press to view the list displays. To begin playback,
1. Press to seek to the beginning playlists stored on the USB. Select select a song from the list.
of the current or previous track. a playlist to view the list of all songs
If the track has been playing for in that playlist. There might be a Genres: Press to view the genres
less than five seconds, the delay before the list displays. on the USB. Select a genre to view
previous track plays. If playing Select a song from the list to begin a list of all songs of that genre.
longer than five seconds, the playback. Select a song from the list to begin
current track restarts. playback.
Artists: Press to view the list of
2. Press and hold to reverse artists stored on the USB. Select Folders: Press to open a folder list
quickly through playback. an artist name to view a list of all to access the files within the folder
albums by the artist. There might be structure.
3. Release to return to playing
speed. Elapsed time displays. a delay before the list displays. To File System and Naming
select a song, touch All Songs then
The song titles, artists, albums, and
SEEK [ (Seek Up): select a song or touch an album
genres are taken from the file's ID3
then select a song from the list to
1. Press to seek to the next track. begin playback. tag and are only displayed if present
in the tag. If a song title is not
2. Press and hold to advance Albums: Press to view the albums present in the ID3 tag, the radio
quickly through playback. on the USB. Select the album to
Release to return to playing displays the file name as the
view a list of all songs on the album. track name.
speed. Elapsed time displays.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
Linking to a Different Phone or contact your wireless provider to button to scroll through the
To link to a different phone, the new find out if this feature is supported entire list of names/numbers in
phone must be in the vehicle and by your phone. the phone book.
available to be connected to the When a cell phone supports the 4. Select the name or number you
Bluetooth system before the phone book feature, the Phone want to call.
process is started. Book and Call Lists menus are To make a call using the Call
1. Press the CONFIG button. automatically available. Lists menu:
2. Select Phone Settings or The Phone Book menu allows you 1. Press the PHONE button once
Bluetooth Settings. to access the phone book stored in or twice (depending on the
the cell phone to make a call. radio).
3. Select Bluetooth.
The Call Lists menu allows you to 2. Select Call Lists.
4. Select Device List. access the phone numbers from the
5. Select the new phone to link to Incoming Calls, Outgoing Calls, and 3. Select the Incoming Calls,
and follow the on screen Missed Calls menus on your cell Outgoing Calls, or Missed
prompts. phone to make a call. Calls list.
If delete is selected, the To make a call using the Phone 4. Select the name or number you
highlighted phone will be Book menu: want to call.
deleted. 1. Press the PHONE button once Making a Call
or twice (depending on the
Making a Call Using radio).
To make a call:
Phone Book 1. Press the PHONE button once
2. Select Phone Book.
For cell phones that support the or twice (depending on the
phone book feature, the Bluetooth 3. Search through the list by radio).
system can use the contacts stored selecting the letter group the
2. Enter the phone number.
on your cell phone to make calls. phone book entry begins with,
See your cell phone's owner's guide or press the TUNE/MENU 3. Select Call to start dialing the
number.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (24,1)
Accepting or Declining a Call Declining a Call 4. After the call has been placed,
Turn the TUNE/MENU knob to turn or press the TUNE/MENU
When an incoming call is received,
“Decline” and press the TUNE/ knob and choose Merge Calls.
the infotainment system mutes and
a ring tone is heard in the vehicle. MENU knob to decline the call. 5. To add more callers to the
conference call, repeat Steps 1
Accepting a Call Switching Between Calls (Call through 4. The number of callers
Waiting Calls Only) that can be added is limited by
Turn the TUNE/MENU knob to
“Answer” and press the TUNE/ To switch between calls: your wireless service carrier.
MENU knob to accept the call. 1. Turn or press the TUNE/ Ending a Call
Declining a Call MENU knob.
Turn or press the TUNE/MENU
Turn the TUNE/MENU knob to 2. Select Switch Call from knob and select Hang Up.
“Decline” and press the TUNE/ the menu.
MENU knob to decline the call. Muting a Call
Conference Calling
Call Waiting To Mute a Call
Conference calling and three‐way
Call waiting must be supported on calling must be supported on the Turn or press the TUNE/MENU
the Bluetooth phone and enabled by Bluetooth phone and enabled by the knob and select Mute Call.
the wireless service carrier to work. wireless service carrier to work. To Cancel Mute
Accepting a Call To start a conference while in a Turn or press the TUNE/MENU
current call: knob and select Mute Call.
Turn the TUNE/MENU knob to
“Answer” and press the TUNE/ 1. Turn or press the TUNE/
MENU knob to accept the call. MENU knob.
2. Select Enter Number.
3. Enter the phone number and
then select Call.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (25,1)
5. Locate the device named “Your Listing All Paired and Connected Connecting to a Different Phone
Vehicle” in the list on the cell Phones To connect to a different cell phone,
phone. Follow the instructions The system can list all cell phones the Bluetooth system looks for the
on the cell phone to enter the paired to it. If a paired cell phone is next available cell phone in the
PIN provided in Step 3. After the also connected to the vehicle, the order in which all the available cell
PIN is successfully entered, the system responds with “is connected” phones were paired. Depending on
system prompts you to provide a after that phone name. which cell phone you want to
name for the paired cell phone. connect to, you may have to use
This name will be used to 1. Press b / g. The system this command several times.
indicate which phones are responds “Ready,” followed by
paired and connected to the a tone. 1. Press b / g. The system
vehicle. The system responds responds “Ready,” followed by
with “<Phone name> has been 2. Say “Bluetooth.”
a tone.
successfully paired” after the 3. Say “List.”
pairing process is complete. 2. Say “Bluetooth.”
Deleting a Paired Phone 3. Say “Change phone.”
6. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 to pair
additional phones. If the phone name you want to . If another cell phone is
delete is unknown, see “Listing All found, the response will be
Paired and Connected Phones.”
“<Phone name> is now
1. Press b / g. The system connected.”
responds “Ready,” followed by . If another cell phone is not
a tone. found, the original phone
2. Say “Bluetooth.” remains connected.
3. Say “Delete.” The system asks
for which phone to delete.
4. Say the name of the phone you
want to delete.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (27,1)
Storing and Deleting Phone Using the “Store” Command 3. Say each digit, one at a time,
Numbers that you want to store. After
1. Press b / g. The system each digit is entered, the system
The system can store up to responds “Ready,” followed by repeats back the digit it heard
30 phone numbers as name tags in a tone. followed by a tone. After the last
the Hands‐Free Directory that is digit has been entered, say
2. Say “Store.”
shared between the Bluetooth and “Store,” and then follow the
OnStar systems. 3. Say the phone number or group directions given by the system to
of numbers you want to store all save a name tag for this number.
The following commands are used
at once with no pauses, then
to delete and store phone numbers.
follow the directions given by the Using the “Delete” Command
Store: This command will store a system to save a name tag for
phone number, or a group of this number. 1. Press b / g. The system
numbers as a name tag. responds “Ready,” followed by
Using the “Digit Store” Command a tone.
Digit Store: This command allows
a phone number to be stored as a If an unwanted number is 2. Say “Delete.”
name tag by entering the digits one recognized by the system, say
“Clear” at any time to clear the last 3. Say the name tag you want to
at a time. delete.
number.
Delete: This command is used to Using the “Delete All Name Tags”
delete individual name tags. To hear all of the numbers
recognized by the system, say Command
Delete All Name Tags: This “Verify” at any time. This command deletes all stored
command deletes all stored name name tags in the Hands Free
tags in the Hands‐Free Calling 1. Press b / g. The system
Calling Directory and the
Directory and the Destinations responds “Ready,” followed by Destinations Directory.
Directory. a tone.
2. Say “Digit Store.”
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (28,1)
To delete all name tags: Digit Dial: This command allows a If an unwanted number is
phone number to be dialed by recognized by the system, say
1. Press b / g. The system entering the digits one at a time. “Clear” at any time to clear the last
responds “Ready,” followed by number.
a tone. Re‐dial: This command is used to
dial the last number used on the cell To hear all of the numbers
2. Say “Delete all name tags.” phone. recognized by the system, say
Listing Stored Numbers “Verify” at any time.
Using the “Dial” or “Call”
The list command will list all the Command 1. Press b / g. The system
stored numbers and name tags. responds “Ready,” followed by
1. Press b / g. The system
a tone.
Using the “List” Command responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone. 2. Say “Digit Dial.”
1. Press b / g. The system
2. Say “Dial” or “Call.” 3. Say each digit, one at a time,
responds “Ready,” followed by
that you want to dial. After each
a tone. 3. Say the entire number without
digit is entered, the system
2. Say “Directory.” pausing or say the name tag.
repeats back the digit it heard
3. Say “Hands Free Calling.” Once connected, the person called followed by a tone. After the
will be heard through the audio last digit has been entered,
4. Say “List.” speakers. say “Dial.”
Making a Call Using the “Digit Dial” Command Once connected, the person called
will be heard through the audio
Calls can be made using the The digit dial command allows a
speakers.
following commands. phone number to be dialed by
Dial or Call: The dial or call entering the digits one at a time.
command can be used After each digit is entered, the
interchangeably to dial a phone system repeats back the digit it
number or a stored name tag. heard followed by a tone.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (29,1)
Using the “Re‐dial” Command Call Waiting 3. Use the dial or call command to
dial the number of the third party
1. Press b / g. The system Call waiting must be supported on
to be called.
responds “Ready,” followed by the cell phone and enabled by the
a tone. wireless service carrier. 4. Once the call is connected,
press b / g to link all callers
2. After the tone, say “Re‐dial.” The . Press b / g to answer an
system dials the last number together.
incoming call when another call
called from the connected cell is active. The original call is Ending a Call
phone. placed on hold.
Once connected, the person called
Press $ / i to end a call.
. Press b / g again to return to
will be heard through the audio the original call. Muting a Call
speakers.
. To ignore the incoming call, no During a call, all sounds from inside
Receiving a Call action is required. the vehicle can be muted so that the
person on the other end of the call
When an incoming call is received, . Press $ / i to disconnect the cannot hear them.
the audio system mutes and a ring
current call and switch to the call
tone is heard in the vehicle.
on hold. To mute a call, press b / g, and
. Press b / g to answer the call. then say “Mute Call.”
Three‐Way Calling
To cancel mute, press b / g, and
. Press $ / i to ignore a call. Three‐way calling must be then say “Un‐mute Call.”
supported on the cell phone and
enabled by the wireless service
carrier.
1. While on a call, press b / g.
2. Say “Three‐way call.”
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (30,1)
Transferring a Call To Transfer Audio to the Bluetooth 3. Say “Voice.” The system
System from a Cell Phone responds “OK, accessing
Audio can be transferred between
During a call with the audio on the <phone name>.”
the Bluetooth system and the cell
phone. cell phone, press b / g. The audio The cell phone's normal prompt
transfers to the vehicle. If the audio messages will go through their cycle
The cell phone must be paired and
does not transfer to the vehicle, according to the phone's operating
connected with the Bluetooth
use the audio transfer feature on the instructions.
system before a call can be
transferred. The connection process cell phone. See your cell phone Dual Tone Multi-Frequency
can take up to two minutes after the manufacturer's user guide for more
(DTMF) Tones
ignition is turned to ON/RUN. information.
The Bluetooth system can send
To Transfer Audio from the Voice Pass-Thru numbers and the numbers stored as
Bluetooth System to a Cell Phone Voice pass‐thru allows access to the name tags during a call. You can
During a call with the audio in the voice recognition commands on the use this feature when calling a
vehicle: cell phone. See your cell phone menu‐driven phone system.
manufacturer's user guide to see if Account numbers can also be
1. Press b / g. the cell phone supports this feature. stored for use.
2. Say “Transfer Call.” To access contacts stored in the cell
phone:
1. Press b / g. The system
responds “Ready,” followed by
a tone.
2. Say “Bluetooth.”
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (31,1)
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Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (34,1)
The air conditioning and electric fan speed, or recirculation setting is Defog off or on, see “Climate
heat could be on at the same time adjusted, the AUTO indicator turns and Air Quality” under Vehicle
when dehumidification is required in off and the selected settings display. Personalization on page 5‑53.
ECO or Comfort modes. For automatic operation: Manual Operation
In Fan Only mode, occasionally the
air conditioning and/or heating
1. Press AUTO. A (Fan Control): Press the fan
status will be on if the Auto Defog 2. Set the temperature. An initial control buttons or the touch screen
function is enabled and high setting of 23°C (74°F) is fan control, to increase or decrease
humidity is detected. See “Climate recommended. Allow the system the fan speed. The fan speed
and Air Quality” under Vehicle time to stabilize. Adjust the setting displays. Pressing either
Personalization on page 5‑53, for temperature as needed. button cancels automatic fan control
details on enabling or disabling the and the fan can be controlled
Q / R (Temperature Control): manually. Press AUTO to return to
Auto Defog function. Press to increase or decrease the automatic operation. Press the fan
The air conditioning may also run temperature. down button repeatedly to turn off
if 0 is selected, regardless of the Auto Defog: The system will the fan and the climate control
climate mode. monitor high humidity inside the system.
vehicle. When high humidity is If the fan is manually turned off
Automatic Operation detected, the climate control system while in ECO or Comfort mode, the
The system automatically controls may adjust to outside air supply and display will automatically change to
the fan speed, air delivery mode, turn on the air conditioner or the Fan Only mode. When the fan is
and recirculation to heat or cool the heater. The fan speed may slightly turned back on either by manually
vehicle to the selected temperature. increase to help prevent fogging. increasing fan speed or pressing
When the AUTO indicator light is When high humidity is no longer the AUTO button, the climate
on, the system is in full automatic detected, the system will return to mode will revert back to ECO or
operation. If the air delivery mode, its prior operation. To turn Auto Comfort mode.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
Air Delivery Mode Control: Press 0 (Defrost): Air is directed to h (Manual Recirculation):
CLIMATE to select the Climate the windshield. The windshield is Press to alternate between
touch screen. Press the air delivery cleared of fog or frost more quickly. recirculating air inside the vehicle
mode touch screen button to Selecting 0 will disable automatic or pulling in outside air. When
change the direction of the airflow. selected, the touch screen button
control and the AUTO button
The selected air delivery mode lights up to indicate that air is being
indicator will not be lit.
button is lit. Pressing any of the air recirculated. This helps to quickly
delivery buttons cancels automatic Selecting 0 again will return to the cool the air inside the vehicle or
air delivery control and the direction previous climate settings. prevent outside air and odors from
of the airflow can be controlled entering.
manually. Press AUTO to return to For best results, clear all snow and
automatic operation. ice from the windshield before Pressing this button cancels
defrosting. automatic recirculation. Press AUTO
To change the current mode, select or AUTO h to return to automatic
one of the following: If 0 is selected in Fan Only or
operation; recirculation runs
Y (Vent): Air is directed to the ECO mode, air conditioning or
automatically as needed.
instrument panel outlets. electric heat may turn on and have
a noticeable effect on vehicle Manual recirculation mode is not
\ (Bi-Level): Air is divided electric range and fuel economy. available when in Defrost or Defog
between the instrument panel modes.
outlets and the floor outlets. AUTO h (Auto Recirculation):
Press to allow the system to M / L (Manual Heated Seats): If
[ (Floor): Air is directed to the automatically choose the air supply available, the controls are on the
floor outlets. mode for best performance in center stack. To operate, the vehicle
- (Defog): Air is directed to the terms of comfort, efficiency, and must be on.
windshield and floor outlets. Clears defogging. Air is recirculated or Press M or L to heat the driver
the windows of fog or moisture. outside air is pulled into the vehicle. or passenger seat cushion and
The touch screen button is lit. seatback. For more information, see
Heated Front Seats on page 3‑7.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
M AUTO/ L AUTO (Auto Heated The rear window defogger turns Remote Start: For vehicles with
Seats): If available, the controls off automatically after about this feature, the climate control
are on the touch screen on the five minutes. If turned on again, it system may be started by using the
center stack. runs for about five minutes before Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
turning off. The defogger can also transmitter. The climate control
Press the touch screen L AUTO be turned off by turning the system will default to an appropriate
or M AUTO button. The button color vehicle off. heating or cooling mode. See
will change to green when this For vehicles with heated outside Remote Start on page 2‑7.
feature is on. When the vehicle is rearview mirrors, they turn on when The rear window defogger turns on
on, this feature will automatically the rear window defogger button is if it is cold outside.
activate the heated seats at the on and help to clear fog or frost from
level required by the vehicle's the surface of the mirror. See Compressor
interior temperature. The active Heated Mirrors on page 2‑16. The vehicle has an electric powered
high, medium, low, or off heated air conditioning compressor.
seat level will be indicated by the Notice: Do not try to clear frost
or other material from the inside This allows for continuous air
manual heated seat button lights on conditioning and/or high voltage
the center stack. Use the touch of the front windshield and rear
window with a razor blade or battery cooling operation, without
screen buttons or the manual running the engine.
heated seat buttons on the center anything else that is sharp. This
stack to turn auto heated seats off. may damage the rear window The compressor operating speed
For more information, see Heated defogger grid and affect the is not tied to the engine speed, so
Front Seats on page 3‑7. radio's ability to pick up stations some noise may be heard from the
clearly. The repairs would not be compressor, especially when air
Rear Window Defogger covered by the vehicle warranty. conditioning use is high and the
= (Rear Window Defogger): engine has turned off. This is
Press to turn the rear window normal.
defogger on or off.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (8,1)
Use Mountain Mode prior to Less energy is used at low fan Turn off the front and rear window
climbing long, steep grades in speeds. When using the fan: defog/defrost when they are no
mountainous areas. Be sure to . Fan Only is the most energy longer needed.
engage Mountain Mode before efficient climate setting as long Avoid driving with the windows open
starting to climb. Mountain Mode
reduces electric range and power as 0 is not selected. at highway speeds.
but may be needed to maintain . ECO is for moderate air Vehicle Charging/Maintenance
speeds above 96 km/h (60 mph) conditioning and heater
when climbing grades of 5% or Charging
operation and is the next
greater. most energy efficient setting as Keep the vehicle plugged in, even
Use L (Low) in heavy stop‐and‐go long as 0 is not selected when fully charged, to keep the
traffic or when traveling downhill. battery temperature ready for the
. Comfort provides the most next drive. This is important when
L (Low) requires less brake pedal
comfort but is the least energy outside temperatures are extremely
application and provides a
efficient. hot or cold.
controlled, efficient way to slow the
vehicle down. Use the auto heated seat feature Maintenance
instead of climate settings. Heating
Climate Setting the seat uses less energy than Always keep the tires properly
heating the vehicle interior. inflated and the vehicle properly
Using the heat and air conditioning
aligned.
systems decreases the energy Use remote start to heat or cool the
available for electric driving. interior when the vehicle is plugged The weight of excess cargo in the
in to maximize the electric range by vehicle affects efficiency and range.
Optimal energy efficiency is
utilizing electricity from the electrical Avoid carrying more than is needed.
achieved with the heat, air
conditioning, and fan turned off. outlet. If fuel is not regularly used, consider
In hot weather, avoid parking in keeping the fuel tank only one‐third
direct sunlight or use sunshades full. Excess fuel weight impacts
inside the vehicle. efficiency and range.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
Try not to break the fragile traction. If possible, use the Roadside
If you accelerate too fast, the drive Assistance Program. To get WARNING (Continued)
wheels will spin and polish the help and keep everyone in the
surface under the tires even more. vehicle safe:
. Check again from time to
time to be sure snow does
The Antilock Brake System (ABS) . Turn on the hazard warning not collect there.
improves vehicle stability during flashers.
hard stops on slippery roads, but
. Open a window about 5 cm
. Tie a red cloth to an outside (2 in) on the side of the
apply the brakes sooner than when mirror.
on dry pavement. vehicle that is away from the
wind to bring in fresh air.
Allow greater following distance on
any slippery road and watch for
{ WARNING . Fully open the air outlets on
slippery spots. Icy patches can or under the instrument
Snow can trap engine exhaust
occur on otherwise clear roads in panel.
under the vehicle. This may
shaded areas. The surface of a cause exhaust gases to get . Adjust the climate control
curve or an overpass can remain icy inside. Engine exhaust contains system to a setting that
when the surrounding roads are carbon monoxide (CO) which circulates the air inside the
clear. Avoid sudden steering cannot be seen or smelled. It can vehicle and set the fan speed
maneuvers and braking while cause unconsciousness and even to the highest setting. See
on ice. “Climate Control Systems” in
death.
Turn off cruise control on slippery the Index.
If the vehicle is stuck in the snow:
surfaces. For more information about
. Clear away snow from around carbon monoxide, see Engine
Blizzard Conditions the base of the vehicle, Exhaust on page 9‑26.
Being stuck in snow can be a especially any that is blocking
serious situation. Stay with the the exhaust pipe.
vehicle unless there is help nearby. (Continued)
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
To conserve energy, run the vehicle electric drive unit wear, wait until the
for only short periods as needed to { WARNING wheels stop spinning before shifting
warm the vehicle and then shut the gears. Release the accelerator
vehicle off and close the window If the vehicle's tires spin at high pedal while shifting, and press
most of the way to save heat. speed, they can explode, and you lightly on the accelerator pedal
Repeat this until help arrives or others could be injured. The when the electric drive unit is in
but only when you feel really vehicle can overheat, causing an gear. Slowly spinning the wheels in
uncomfortable from the cold. Moving engine compartment fire or other the forward and reverse directions
about to keep warm also helps. damage. Spin the wheels as little causes a rocking motion that could
as possible and avoid going free the vehicle. If that does not get
If it takes some time for help to
above 55 km/h (35 mph). the vehicle out after a few tries, it
arrive, start the vehicle. The engine
may start to charge the 12‐volt might need to be towed out. If the
battery. Turn off unnecessary vehicle does need to be towed out,
For information about using tire
accessories to conserve energy. see Towing the Vehicle on
chains on the vehicle, see Tire
page 10‑73.
Chains on page 10‑58.
If the Vehicle Is Stuck Rocking the Vehicle to Get Vehicle Load Limits
Slowly and cautiously spin the it Out
wheels to free the vehicle when It is very important to know how
stuck in sand, mud, ice, or snow. Turn the steering wheel left and much weight the vehicle can
right to clear the area around the carry. This weight is called the
The Traction Control System (TCS) front wheels. Shift back and forth
must be turned off by pressing the
vehicle capacity weight and
between R (Reverse) and a forward
TSC/ESC button. Traction control is includes the weight of all
gear, spinning the wheels as little
not completely off, but will only as possible. The Traction Control occupants, cargo, and all
engage if the maneuver can cause System prevents the tires from nonfactory‐installed options.
damage to the electric drive unit. spinning at high speeds. To prevent
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
Two labels on the vehicle Tire and Loading Information and the maximum vehicle
show how much weight it was Label capacity weight (B) in kilograms
designed to carry, the Tire and and pounds.
Loading Information label and The Tire and Loading
the Certification label. Information label also shows
the tire size of the original
{ WARNING equipment tires (C) and the
Do not load the vehicle any recommended cold tire inflation
heavier than the Gross pressures (D). For more
Vehicle Weight Rating information on tires and inflation
(GVWR), or either the see Tires on page 10‑40 and
maximum front or rear Gross Tire Pressure on page 10‑46.
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). There is also important loading
This can cause systems to Label Example information on the Certification
break and change the way the A vehicle-specific Tire and label. It tells you the Gross
vehicle handles. This could Loading Information label is Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
cause loss of control and a attached to the center pillar and the Gross Axle Weight
crash. Overloading can also (B-pillar). With the driver door Rating (GAWR) for the front
shorten the life of the vehicle. open, the label is attached and rear axle; see “Certification
below the door lock post. The Label” later in this section.
Tire and Loading Information
label shows the number of
occupant seating positions (A),
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (13,1)
Example 2 Example 3
A. Vehicle Capacity Weight for A. Vehicle Capacity Weight
Example 2 = 453 kg for Example 3 = 453 kg
(1,000 lbs). (1,000 lbs).
B. Subtract Occupant Weight B. Subtract Occupant Weight
@ 68 kg (150 lbs) × 5 = @ 91 kg (200 lbs) × 5 = Label Example
340 kg (750 lbs). 453 kg (1,000 lbs). A vehicle-specific Certification
C. Available Cargo Weight = C. Available Cargo Weight = label is found on the center pillar
113 kg (250 lbs). 0 kg (0 lbs). (B-pillar). The label shows the
Refer to the vehicle's Tire and gross weight capacity of the
Loading Information label for vehicle. This is the Gross
specific information about the Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
vehicle's capacity weight and and includes the weight of the
vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
cargo. Never exceed the GVWR If you put things inside the
for the vehicle, or the Gross vehicle — like suitcases, WARNING (Continued)
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for tools, packages, or anything . Never stack heavier
either the front or rear axle. else — they will go as fast as things, like suitcases,
Spread out heavy loads equally the vehicle goes. If you have to inside the vehicle so that
on both sides of the vehicle. See stop or turn quickly, or if there is some of them are above
“Steps for Determining Correct a crash, they will keep going. the tops of the seats.
Load Limit” earlier in this
section. { WARNING . Do not leave an
unsecured child restraint
Things inside the vehicle can in the vehicle.
{ WARNING strike and injure people in a . Secure loose items in the
Do not load the vehicle any sudden stop or turn, or in a vehicle.
heavier than the Gross crash.
. Do not leave a seat folded
Vehicle Weight Rating . Put things in the cargo down unless needed.
(GVWR), or either the area of the vehicle. In the
maximum front or rear Gross cargo area, put them as
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). far forward as possible.
This can cause systems to Try to spread the weight
break and change the way the evenly.
vehicle handles. This could (Continued)
cause loss of control and a
crash. Overloading can also
shorten the life of the vehicle.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
STOPPING THE VEHICLE/OFF: to N (Neutral), firmly apply the Starting and Stopping the
To turn the vehicle off, push the brakes and steer the vehicle to a
safe location.
Vehicle
POWER O button with the vehicle
in P (Park). Retained Accessory 3. Come to a complete stop, shift Starting Procedure
Power (RAP) will remain active until to P (Park), and turn the vehicle Move the shift lever to P (Park) or
the driver door is opened. See off by pushing the POWER O N (Neutral). The propulsion system
Retained Accessory Power (RAP) button. will not start in any other position.
on page 9‑19. When turning off the
vehicle, if the vehicle is not in 4. Set the parking brake. See Notice: Do not try to shift to
P (Park), the vehicle will go to Electric Parking Brake on P (Park) if the vehicle is moving
ACC/ACCESSORY and display the page 9‑30. or the electric drive unit could be
message SHIFT TO PARK in the damaged. Shift to P (Park) only
when the vehicle is stopped.
Driver Information Center (DIC). { WARNING
See Electric Drive Unit Messages Notice: The vehicle is designed
on page 5‑47. Turning off the vehicle while to work with the electronics in
If the vehicle must be shut off in an moving may disable the airbags. the vehicle. If you add electrical
emergency: While driving, only shut the parts or accessories, you could
propulsion system off in an change the way the vehicle
1. Brake using a firm and steady emergency. operates. Before adding electrical
pressure. Do not pump the equipment, check with your
brakes repeatedly. This may dealer. If you do not, the vehicle
deplete power assist, requiring If the vehicle cannot be pulled over, might not perform properly. Any
increased brake pedal force. and must be shut off while driving, resulting damage would not be
2. Shift the vehicle to N (Neutral). press and hold the POWER O covered by the vehicle warranty.
This can be done while the button for longer than two seconds,
The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
vehicle is moving. After shifting or press twice in five seconds.
transmitter must be in the vehicle.
Press the brake pedal and push and
release the POWER O button.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (18,1)
If the RKE transmitter is not in the screen with inactive fuel and battery
vehicle or something is interfering gauges. See Starting and Stopping
with the transmitter, a message the Vehicle on page 9‑17.
displays in the Driver Information
Center (DIC). See Key and Lock Restarting Procedure
Messages on page 5‑48. If the vehicle must be restarted
If the vehicle will not start due to a while it is still moving, move the shift
low RKE transmitter battery, the lever to N (Neutral) and press the
vehicle can still be driven. See POWER O button twice without
“Starting the Vehicle with a Low pressing the brake pedal. The
Transmitter Battery” in Remote propulsion system will not restart in
Keyless Entry (RKE) System any other position.
Operation on page 2‑2. A Welcome, Ready, and Good‐bye Computers determine when the
audio message will be heard in engine needs to run. The engine
the vehicle and animated on the may start, if required, when the
instrument cluster when opening the propulsion system is on. Some
driver door upon entry, when the vehicle conditions that force the
vehicle is ready to be driven, and engine to run are:
when the vehicle is turned off. . Cold ambient temperatures.
The instrument cluster displays an . The hood is open or not
active fuel or battery gauge, along
completely latched.
with an audio startup cue, when the
vehicle is ready to be driven. This . The high voltage battery has a
could take up to 15 seconds at low charge.
extremely cold temperatures. The
engine will only start if needed.
If the vehicle did not start, the
instrument cluster will display a
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (19,1)
See if you can move the shift lever Shifting out of Park If the vehicle has an uncharged
away from P (Park) without first 12‐volt battery or a 12‐volt battery
pulling it toward you. If you can, it To shift out of P (Park), the vehicle with low voltage, try charging or
means that the shift lever was not must be in ON/RUN, the brake jump starting the 12‐volt battery.
fully locked into P (Park). pedal must be applied, and the See Jump Starting on page 10‑68.
charge cord must be unplugged.
Torque Lock If the console shift lever cannot be
The vehicle has an electronic shift moved out of P (Park):
Torque lock is when the weight of lock release system. The shift lock
the vehicle puts too much force on release is designed to: 1. Apply and maintain the regular
the parking pawl in the electric drive brakes.
. Prevent the vehicle from turning
unit. This happens when parking 2. Turn the vehicle on using the
off unless the shift lever is in
on a hill and shifting the electric POWER O button. See Power
P (Park).
drive unit into P (Park) is not done
. Prevent moving the shift lever Button on page 9‑16.
properly and then it is difficult to
shift out of P (Park). To prevent out of P (Park), unless the 3. Let up on the shift lever and
torque lock, set the parking brake vehicle is in ON/RUN, the brake make sure the shift lever is
and then shift into P (Park). pedal is applied, and the charge pushed all the way into P (Park).
cord is unplugged. 4. Press the shift lever button.
If torque lock does occur, your
vehicle may need to be pushed The shift lock is always functional 5. Move the shift lever into the
uphill by another vehicle to relieve except in the case of an uncharged desired gear.
the parking pawl pressure, so you or low charged 12‐volt battery (less
can shift out of P (Park). than 9 volts). If you still cannot move the shift
lever from P (Park), see your dealer
or a professional towing service.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (21,1)
Extended Range Mode In either Electric Mode or Extended Driver Selected Operating
Range Mode, when the hood is
When the vehicle reaches the end open, the engine will run without
Modes
of its electric range, it switches to turning off if the vehicle is on. The While driving in Electric or Extended
Extended Range Mode (ERM). In high voltage battery is neither Range Mode, additional operating
this secondary mode, electricity is charged nor discharged when this modes can be selected.
produced by the fuel‐powered occurs.
engine. This secondary source of
electric power extends the vehicle In either Electric Mode or Extended
range. Operation will continue in Range Mode, if there is a high
ERM until the vehicle can be voltage battery fault, the engine may
plugged in to recharge the high run without turning off to generate
voltage battery and restore needed electricity. The malfunction
Electric Mode. indicator lamp will turn on. See
Malfunction Indicator Lamp on
The high voltage battery will page 5‑19.
continue to provide some power and
work together with the engine to
provide peak performance when it is
required, such as driving up a steep
incline or for high acceleration
Press the DRIVE MODE button to
maneuvers. The battery will not be
display selectable drive modes in
charged nor will electric vehicle
the Driver Information Center (DIC).
range be restored by the engine.
Continue pressing to scroll through
the modes.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (23,1)
This mode maintains a reserve The engine may run when Mountain responsive acceleration. DIC
electrical charge of the high voltage Mode is selected, depending on messages indicate reduced
battery to provide better grade high voltage battery charge, to build propulsion power, that the engine is
climbing performance. While driving reserve battery charge for uphill not available, and the need for fuel
in Mountain Mode, the vehicle will climbs. If Mountain Mode is entered or service.
have less responsive acceleration. with a sufficient battery charge Once the vehicle is refueled, or the
Mountain Mode will not change reserve, the estimated electric range malfunction is corrected, the engine
normal vehicle braking performance will adjust accordingly and any will start the next time the vehicle is
for steep downhill grades. See Hill battery charge reserve still unused turned on to perform a self test, and
and Mountain Roads on page 9‑9 upon exiting Mountain Mode will be DIC messages will not be displayed.
and Electric Drive Unit on added back to the electric range Once the engine starts successfully,
page 9‑28. display. normal operation will continue in
Press the DRIVE MODE button to Press the Drive Mode button again either Electric or Extended Range
select Mountain Mode. If steep to return to Normal Mode and it Mode. The engine will stop running
hill driving is expected, it is becomes active after three seconds. after the self test is completed, and
recommended to select Mountain Each time the vehicle is started, based on the current mode of
Mode at least 20 minutes before it will return to Normal Mode to operation. See Fuel System
driving on steep grades. This will maintain a smaller battery charge Messages on page 5‑48 and
allow the vehicle time to build a reserve for normal driving. Service Vehicle Messages on
sufficient battery charge reserve. page 5‑51.
very limited engine operation. EMM If the EMM request was delayed for be maintained in the vehicle to keep
will force the engine to run, even if one day, EMM will automatically it operational. See Propulsion Power
there is a charge to power the start the engine at the next vehicle Messages on page 5‑50.
vehicle. When EMM is needed, the start. An EMM Notification screen
EMM Request screen appears on will appear in the center stack
the center stack display at vehicle display.
start.
Allowing more old fuel to be used If No is selected, the FMM Request Engine Exhaust
up by FMM and adding a larger screen will appear when the vehicle
amount of fresh fuel will maximize is next started. The FMM request
the length of time before another can be delayed for only one day. { WARNING
fuel maintenance mode is needed. If the FMM request was delayed for
During FMM the engine may turn on Engine exhaust contains carbon
one day, FMM will start at the next monoxide (CO) which cannot be
and off. vehicle start and display the FMM seen or smelled. Exposure to CO
When FMM is needed, the FMM Notification screen on the center can cause unconsciousness and
Request screen appears on the stack display. even death.
center stack display at vehicle start. If FMM is required and the fuel level Exhaust may enter the vehicle if:
is low, FMM may eventually empty
the fuel tank if fuel is not added. . The engine is running in
This will result in reduced, or no Extended Range Mode in
power. An adequate fuel level must areas with poor ventilation
be maintained in the vehicle to keep (parking garages, tunnels,
it operational. See Propulsion Power or deep snow that may block
Messages on page 5‑50. underbody airflow or tail
pipes).
. The exhaust smells or
sounds strange or different.
If Yes is selected, FMM will begin.
FMM will automatically continue at . The exhaust system leaks
each vehicle start until fresh fuel is due to corrosion or damage.
added. . The vehicle exhaust system
has been modified, damaged,
or improperly repaired.
(Continued)
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (27,1)
If driving safely on a wet road and it suddenly slows or stops. Always Electric Parking Brake
becomes necessary to slam on the leave enough room up ahead to
brakes and continue braking to stop, even with ABS.
avoid a sudden obstacle, a
computer senses that the wheels Using ABS
are slowing down. If one of the Do not pump the brakes. Just hold
wheels is about to stop rolling, the the brake pedal down firmly and let
computer will separately work the ABS work. You might hear the ABS
brakes at each wheel. pump or motor operating and feel
ABS can change the brake pressure the brake pedal pulsate, but this is
to each wheel, as required, faster normal.
than any driver could. This can help Braking in Emergencies
the driver steer around the obstacle
while braking hard. ABS allows the driver to steer and
brake at the same time. In many
As the brakes are applied, the emergencies, steering can help The vehicle has an Electric Parking
computer keeps receiving updates more than even the very best Brake (EPB). The Y switch is on
on wheel speed and controls braking. the center stack. The EPB can
braking pressure accordingly. always be activated, even if the
Remember: ABS does not change vehicle is off. To prevent draining
the time needed to get a foot up to the 12‐volt battery, avoid repeated
the brake pedal or always decrease cycles of the EPB system when the
stopping distance. If you get too vehicle is off.
close to the vehicle in front of you, In case of insufficient electrical
there will not be enough time to power, the EPB cannot be applied
apply the brakes if that vehicle or released.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (31,1)
Before leaving the vehicle, check the Y switch during the of time than normal when this
the Electric Parking Brake Light to deceleration will release the parking light is on. Continue to hold
ensure the parking brake is applied. the Y switch until the Electric
brake. If the Y switch is held in
EPB Apply the up position until the vehicle Parking Brake Light remains on.
comes to a stop, the EPB will If the Service Electric Parking Brake
The EPB can be applied anytime Light is on, see your dealer.
remain applied.
the vehicle is stopped. The EPB is
applied by momentarily lifting up on If the Electric Parking Brake Light If the EPB fails to apply, the rear
flashes continuously, the EPB is wheels should be blocked to
the Y switch. Once fully applied, prevent vehicle movement.
the Electric Parking Brake Light will only partially applied or released,
be on. While the brake is being or there is a problem with the EPB. For maximum EPB force when
applied, the Electric Parking Brake The DIC message SERVICE parking on a hill, pull the EPB
Light will flash until full apply is PARKING BRAKE will be displayed. switch twice.
reached. If the light does not come If this light flashes continuously,
release the EPB, and attempt to EPB Release
on, or remains flashing, have the
vehicle serviced. Do not drive the apply it again. If this light continues To release the EPB, place the
vehicle if the Electric Parking Brake to flash, do not drive the vehicle. vehicle in ON/RUN, apply and hold
Light is flashing. See your dealer. See your dealer. the brake pedal, and push down
If the EPB is applied while the If the Service Electric Parking Brake momentarily on the Y switch.
vehicle is in motion, a chime will Light is on, the EPB has detected a If attempting to release the EPB
sound, and the DIC message system problem and is operating without the brake pedal applied, a
RELEASE PARKING BRAKE will with reduced functionality. To apply chime will sound, and the DIC
be displayed. The vehicle will the EPB when this light is on, lift message STEP ON BRAKE TO
decelerate as long as the switch is up on the Y switch and hold it in RELEASE PARK BRAKE will be
held in the up position. Releasing the up position. Full application displayed. The EPB is released
of the parking brake by the EPB when the Electric Parking Brake
system may take a longer period Light is off.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (32,1)
If the Service Electric Parking Automatic EPB Release The braking system is computer
Brake Light is on, the EPB has controlled and blends the
The EPB will automatically release if
detected a system problem, regenerative braking with the
the vehicle is running, placed into
and is operating with reduced conventional hydraulic disc brakes
gear, and an attempt is made to
functionality. To release the EPB to meet any requirements for
drive away. Avoid rapid acceleration
when this light is on, push down deceleration. The controller
when the EPB is applied, to
on the Y switch and hold it in interprets the braking request
preserve parking brake lining life.
the down position. EPB release and uses regenerative braking,
may take a longer period of time See Electric Parking Brake Light on conventional hydraulic braking, or a
than normal when this light is on. page 5‑22, Service Electric Parking combination of both as necessary.
Brake Light on page 5‑22, and Because the controller applies the
Continue to hold the Y switch until Brake System Messages on hydraulic brakes through its high
the Electric Parking Brake Light is page 5‑46. pressure accumulator, you may
off. If the light is on, see your dealer. occasionally hear the motor‐driven
Notice: Driving with the parking Regenerative Braking pump when it recharges the system.
brake on can overheat the brake This is normal.
system and cause premature Regenerative braking takes some of
the energy from the moving vehicle See Warning Lights, Gauges, and
wear or damage to brake system Indicators on page 5‑9 and Driver
parts. Make sure that the parking and turns it back into electrical
energy. This energy is then stored Information Center (DIC) on
brake is fully released and the page 5‑43. In the event of a
Electric Parking Brake Light is off back into the high voltage battery
system, contributing to increased controller problem, the brake pedal
before driving. may be harder to push and the
energy efficiency.
stopping distance may be longer.
The hydraulic disc brakes work with
the regenerative braking to ensure
effective braking, such as when a
high braking demand is requested.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (33,1)
Ride Control Systems When the vehicle is started and d flashes to indicate that TCS is
begins to move, the system active. See Traction Control System
performs several diagnostic checks (TCS)/StabiliTrak® Light on
Traction Control to ensure there are no problems. page 5‑24 for more information.
System (TCS) The system may be heard or felt If there is a problem detected with
The vehicle has a Traction Control while it is working. This is normal TCS, SERVICE TRACTION
System (TCS) that limits wheel spin. and does not mean there is a CONTROL is displayed on the
The system operates if it senses problem with the vehicle. The Driver Information Center (DIC).
that one or both of the drive wheels system should initialize before the See Ride Control System Messages
are slipping or beginning to lose vehicle reaches 32 km/h (20 mph). on page 5‑50. When this message
traction. When this happens, the In some cases, it may take is displayed and d comes on and
system brakes the spinning wheel(s) approximately 3.2 km (2 mi) of
stays on, the vehicle is safe to drive
and/or reduces power to limit driving before the system initializes.
but the system is not operational.
wheel spin. The TCS may activate on dry or Driving should be adjusted
The system may be heard or felt rough roads or under conditions accordingly.
while it is working, but this is such as heavy acceleration while
normal. turning or abrupt changes in output If d comes on and stays on, reset
from the electric drive unit. When the system:
To assist with directional control of
this happens, a reduction in 1. Stop the vehicle.
the vehicle, TCS automatically
acceleration may be noticed, or a
comes on whenever the vehicle 2. Turn the engine off and wait
noise or vibration may be heard.
is turned on. To limit wheel spin, 15 seconds.
This is normal.
especially in slippery road
conditions, the system should 3. Start the engine.
always be left on. But, TCS can be
turned off if needed.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (34,1)
If d still comes on and stays on, the on, and the appropriate DIC Electronic Stability
vehicle needs service. message also displays. See Ride
Control System Messages on
Control (ESC)
Notice: Do not repeatedly brake page 5‑50. With TCS turned off, the The vehicle has an Electronic
or accelerate heavily when TCS is system does not limit wheel spin. Stability Control system called
off. The vehicle's driveline could Driving should be adjusted StabiliTrak. It is an advanced
be damaged. accordingly. See Traction Off Light computer-controlled system that
on page 5‑24 for more information. assists with directional control of the
Press and release the TCS/ESC vehicle in difficult driving conditions.
button again to turn the system StabiliTrak comes on automatically
back on. whenever the vehicle is turned on.
It may be necessary to turn the To assist with directional control of
system off if the vehicle gets stuck the vehicle, the system should
in sand, mud, or snow and rocking always be left on.
the vehicle is required. See If the The system may be heard or felt
Vehicle Is Stuck on page 9‑11 for while it is working, but this is
more information. See also Winter normal.
Driving on page 9‑9 for information
StabiliTrak activates when the
on using TCS when driving in snowy
computer senses a difference
or icy conditions.
TCS can be turned off by pressing between the intended path and the
and releasing the TCS/ESC button Adding non‐GM accessories can direction the vehicle is actually
located on the overhead console. affect vehicle performance. See traveling. StabiliTrak selectively
When TCS is turned off, i comes Accessories and Modifications on applies braking pressure to the
page 10‑3 for more information. vehicle brakes to help steer the
vehicle in the intended direction.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (35,1)
Reducing Speed While Using you might have to step on the Object Detection
Cruise Control accelerator pedal to maintain
If the cruise control system is the vehicle speed. When going Systems
already activated: downhill, you might have to brake
or shift to a lower gear to maintain Ultrasonic Parking Assist
. Move the thumbwheel toward the vehicle speed. When the brakes
SET/− and hold until the desired are applied the cruise control is If available, the Ultrasonic Front
lower speed is reached, then disengaged. and Rear Parking Assist (UFRPA)
release it. system assists the driver with
Ending Cruise Control parking and avoiding objects.
. To slow down in very small UFRPA operates at speeds less
amounts, move the thumbwheel There are three ways to end cruise
control: than 8 km/h (5 mph). The sensors
toward SET/− briefly. Each time on the front and rear bumper detect
this is done, the vehicle goes . Step lightly on the brake pedal; objects up to 1.2 m (4 ft) in front of
about 1.6 km/h (1 mph) slower. when cruise control disengages, the vehicle, 2.5 m (8 ft) behind the
Passing Another Vehicle While the indicator light will not be lit. vehicle, and at least 25 cm (10 in)
Using Cruise Control . Press *. off the ground.
Use the accelerator pedal to . Press 1 to turn the cruise
increase vehicle speed. When you
take your foot off the pedal, the control system off completely.
vehicle will slow down to the The cruise control cannot be
previously set cruise control speed. resumed.
However, if an object comes within When the system is off, PARK ice, and slush. For cleaning
0.3 m (1 ft) of the front bumper while ASSIST OFF displays on the Driver instructions, see Exterior Care
the vehicle is backing up and at the Information Center (DIC). The on page 10‑78.
same time there is another object message disappears after a short . The park assist sensors are
further than 0.3 m (1 ft) from the rear period of time. covered by frost or ice. Frost or
bumper, then the beeps only sound UFRPA defaults to the on setting ice can form around and behind
to indicate the object that is closer each time the vehicle is started. the sensors and may not always
to the front bumper. be seen; this can occur after
When the System Does Not washing the vehicle in cold
Turning the System On and Off
Seem to Work Properly weather. The message may not
The UFRPA system can be turned clear until the frost or ice has
The following messages may be
on and off by pressing the park melted.
displayed on the DIC:
assist button located in the
overhead console. SERVICE PARKING ASSIST: If . An object was hanging out of the
this message occurs, take the hatch during the last drive cycle.
vehicle to your dealer to repair the Once the object is removed,
system. UFRPA will return to normal
operation.
PARK ASSIST OFF: If the UFRPA
system does not activate due to a . An object or cover is attached to
temporary condition, the message the front of the vehicle.
displays on the DIC. This can occur . The bumper is damaged. Take
The LED next to the park assist under the following conditions: the vehicle to your dealer to
button lights up when the system is . The driver has disabled the repair the system.
on and turns off when it has been system.
disabled.
. The ultrasonic sensors are not
clean. Keep the vehicle's
bumpers free of mud, dirt, snow,
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (41,1)
The area displayed by the camera is When the System Does Not
limited. Seem To Work Properly
It does not display objects that are The RVC system may not work
close to either corner or under the properly or display a clear image if:
bumper and can vary depending
on vehicle orientation or road
. The RVC is turned off. See
conditions. The distance of the “Turning the Rear Vision Camera
image that appears on the screen is System On or Off” earlier in this
different from the actual distance. section.
. It is dark.
The following illustration shows the
field of view that the camera . The sun or the beam of
provides. headlamps is shining directly
into the camera lens.
. Ice, snow, mud, or anything else
has built up on the camera lens.
Clean the lens, rinse it with
water, and wipe it with a soft
cloth.
. The back of the vehicle was in
an accident. The position and
mounting angle of the camera
can change or the camera can
be affected. Be sure to have the
A. View displayed by the camera. camera and its position and
mounting angle checked at your
B. Corner of the rear bumper.
dealer.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (44,1)
Charging Status
Sound Action/Reason
Indicator
Solid Green One horn chirp Charging has begun.
Charging is delayed by Programmable
Charging or, if vehicle is equipped
accordingly, by a total utility interruption
Long Flashing Green Two horn chirps
via OnStar. Charging will begin later.
See Utility Interruption of Charging on
page 9‑52.
Short Flashing Green None Charging is complete.
Charge cord is okay and vehicle is not yet
Yellow (Upon Plug‐in) None
charging.
Charge cord is okay, but vehicle is not
charging. This may be due to a total utility
Yellow (For Extended
interruption via Onstar and charging will
Time Period after None
begin later. See Utility Interruption of
Plug‐in)
Charging on page 9‑52 or Malfunction
Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (49,1)
Charging Status
Sound Action/Reason
Indicator
Solid Green or Long Insufficient time to fully charge by
Four horn chirps
Flashing Green departure time.
None (Upon Plug‐in) None Charge cord connection should be checked.
Charge cord connection should be checked.
If connection is good, this may be due to a
None (After Green or
total utility interruption via OnStar and
Yellow CSI Indication None
charging will begin later. See Utility
Observed)
Interruption of Charging on page 9‑52 or
Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 5‑19.
Repeated horn chirps
To disable this feature, see “Charge Power
Loss Alert” in Vehicle Personalization on
page 5‑53.
To stop this alert, do one of the following:
. Unplug the charge cord. Electricity was interrupted before charging
None
was complete.
. Press K on the RKE.
. Press and hold 7 on the RKE, then
press again to stop the panic alarm.
. Press the horn pad.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (50,1)
To change the charge level, unplug grid usage for brief time periods. Electrical Requirements
the vehicle plug from the charge A utility interruption of charging may
port on the vehicle and select the increase vehicle charge time.
for Battery Charging
desired charge level. When electrical grid power is The AC outlet must have a
Normal Level: This level is completely blocked, the vehicle grounded, dedicated, 15 amp or
recommended. All four charge level will delay charging until the utility greater, three‐prong wall plug. That
indicators will be lit. interruption has expired. The vehicle means there should be no other
should be left plugged in so that, major appliances connected to the
Reduced Level: Use when the same circuit. If it is not a dedicated
electrical current is limited. Two when the utility interruption expires,
the vehicle can automatically begin circuit, the current rating of the
charge level indicators will be lit. outlet circuit breaker could be
charging.
Vehicle Plug exceeded and cause it to trip or
Changing the charge mode to open. The vehicle can be charged
The vehicle plug attaches to the Immediate or performing a delayed in the reduced level mode. See
charge port on the vehicle. There is charging override will not disable a “Charge Level Button” in this
a flashlight built into the vehicle plug utility interruption. section. Reduced level mode allows
that can be used by squeezing the A pop‐up will be displayed in the a non‐dedicated circuit to be used
vehicle plug lever. The flashlight will center stack display during the but increases the charging time.
turn off when the connection is key cycle following any utility This vehicle is capable of being
complete and the lever is released. interruption. See “Charge Override/ charged with a variety of standard
Interruption Pop‐up” under Charging vehicle charging equipment.
Utility Interruption of on page 5‑31.
The following are the minimum
Charging Text will be displayed on the requirements for circuits used to
For participating customers, this instrument cluster notifying the charge this vehicle:
vehicle will respond to remote customer that a utility interruption
has occurred. See Instrument
. 120V/15Amp
requests via OnStar to limit or
completely block electrical power Cluster on page 5‑10. . 240V/20Amp
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (53,1)
However, some gasolines contain For customers who do not use TOP Notice: This vehicle was not
only the minimum amount of TIER Detergent Gasoline regularly, designed for fuel that contains
additive required to meet U.S. one bottle of GM Fuel System methanol. Do not use fuel
Environmental Protection Agency Treatment PLUS, added to the fuel containing methanol. It can
regulations. To help keep fuel tank at every engine oil change, corrode metal parts in the fuel
injectors and intake valves clean can help clean deposits from fuel system and also damage plastic
and avoid problems due to dirty injectors and intake valves. GM Fuel and rubber parts. That damage
injectors or valves, look for gasoline System Treatment PLUS is the only would not be covered under the
that is advertised as TOP TIER gasoline additive recommended by vehicle warranty.
Detergent Gasoline. Look for the General Motors. It is available at Some gasolines that are
TOP TIER label on the fuel pump to your dealer. not reformulated for low
ensure gasoline meets enhanced Gasolines containing oxygenates, emissions can contain an
detergency standards developed such as ethers and ethanol, and octane-enhancing additive called
by the auto companies. A list of reformulated gasolines might be methylcyclopentadienyl manganese
marketers providing TOP TIER available in your area. We tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant
Detergent Gasoline can be found at recommend that you use these where you buy gasoline whether the
www.toptiergas.com. gasolines, if they comply with the fuel contains MMT. We recommend
specifications described earlier. against the use of such gasolines.
However, E85 (85% ethanol) and Fuels containing MMT can reduce
other fuels containing more than spark plug life and affect emission
15% ethanol must not be used in control system performance. The
vehicles that were not designed for malfunction indicator lamp might
those fuels. turn on. If this occurs, return to your
dealer for service.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (56,1)
California Proposition 65
Warning
Most motor vehicles, including this
one, contain and/or emit chemicals
known to the State of California to
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
cause cancer and birth defects or Accessories and not covered under the terms of the
other reproductive harm. Engine vehicle warranty and may affect
exhaust, many parts and systems,
Modifications remaining warranty coverage for
many fluids, and some component Adding non‐dealer accessories or affected parts.
wear by-products contain and/or making modifications to the vehicle GM Accessories are designed to
emit these chemicals. can affect vehicle performance and complement and function with other
safety, including such things as systems on the vehicle. See your
California Perchlorate airbags, braking, stability, ride and dealer to accessorize the vehicle
Materials Requirements handling, emissions systems, using genuine GM Accessories
aerodynamics, durability, and installed by a dealer technician.
Certain types of automotive electronic systems like antilock
applications, such as airbag brakes, traction control, and stability Also, see Adding Equipment to the
initiators, seat belt pretensioners, control. These accessories or Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on
and lithium batteries contained in modifications could even cause page 3‑31.
Remote Keyless Entry transmitters, malfunction or damage not covered
may contain perchlorate materials. by the vehicle warranty. Lifting the Vehicle
Special handling may be necessary.
Damage to vehicle components This vehicle can be lifted with a
For additional information, see
resulting from modifications or the hoist or a service jack. Do not use
www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/
installation or use of non‐GM any other type of jack to lift the
perchlorate.
certified parts, including control vehicle.
module or software modifications, is
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (4,1)
Lifting the Vehicle with a Hoist The rear lifting points can be
This vehicle can be lifted with a accessed from either side of the { WARNING
hoist at the four locations, as vehicle, in front of the rear tires.
Getting under a vehicle when it is
illustrated. Lifting the Vehicle with a jacked up is dangerous. If the
Notice: Lifting the vehicle Service Jack vehicle slips off the jack, you
improperly can damage the could be badly injured or killed.
vehicle and result in costly { WARNING Never get under a vehicle when it
repairs not covered by the is supported only by a jack.
warranty. Lifting a vehicle can cause an
injury. The vehicle can slip off the
jack and roll over you or other
people. You and they could be { WARNING
badly injured. Find a level place
to lift your vehicle. To help Raising the vehicle with the
prevent the vehicle from moving: jack improperly positioned can
damage the vehicle or the vehicle
1. Set the parking brake firmly. may fall and cause you or others
2. Put the shift lever in injury.
P (Park).
3. Turn off the vehicle. When using a jack to lift the vehicle,
follow the instructions that came
To be even more certain the with the jack and be sure to use
vehicle will not move, put blocks the correct lifting points to avoid
The front lifting points can be in front of and behind the wheels.
accessed from either side of the damaging the vehicle.
vehicle, behind the front tires.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (5,1)
When lifting the vehicle from the When lifting the vehicle from the
rear, place the service jack directly front, place the service jack directly
under the spring seat. under the cradle mount. Ramps may
be needed under the front tires to
provide the necessary clearance for
certain service jacks in this location.
For more information, see Doing
Your Own Service Work on
page 10‑6.
A. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and System (Power Electronics Engine Oil
Pressure Cap. See Engine and Charger Modules) on
Coolant on page 10‑16. page 10‑16. To ensure proper engine
performance and long life, careful
B. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on H. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See attention must be paid to engine
page 10‑12. “Brake Fluid” under Brakes on oil. Following these simple, but
C. Engine Oil Dipstick. See Engine page 10‑20. important steps will help protect
Oil on page 10‑9. I. High Voltage Cables (Orange your investment:
D. High Voltage Battery Coolant Color). . Always use engine oil approved
Reservoir and Pressure Cap. J. Remote Positive (+) Terminal. to the proper specification and of
See Cooling System (Engine) See Jump Starting on the proper viscosity grade. See
on page 10‑14 or Cooling page 10‑68. “Selecting the Right Engine Oil”
System (High Voltage Battery) in this section.
K. Power Electronics Module.
on page 10‑15 or Cooling . Check the engine oil level
System (Power Electronics L. Windshield Washer Fluid
regularly and maintain the
and Charger Modules) on Reservoir. See “Adding Washer proper oil level. See “Checking
page 10‑16. Fluid” under Washer Fluid on Engine Oil” and “When to Add
page 10‑19. Engine Oil” in this section.
E. Engine Cover.
M. Remote Negative (−) Terminal.
F. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See Engine . Change the engine oil at the
See Jump Starting on appropriate time. See Engine Oil
Oil on page 10‑9. page 10‑68. Life System on page 10‑12.
G. Power Electronics Coolant N. Engine Compartment Fuse
Reservoir and Pressure Cap. . Always dispose of engine oil
Block on page 10‑31.
See Cooling System (Engine) properly. See “What to Do with
on page 10‑14 or Cooling Used Oil” in this section.
System (High Voltage Battery)
on page 10‑15 or Cooling
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (10,1)
Checking Engine Oil When to Add Engine Oil area that shows the proper
operating range, the engine could
It is a good idea to check the engine
be damaged. You should drain
oil level at each fuel fill. In order to
out the excess oil or limit driving
get an accurate reading, the vehicle
of the vehicle and seek a service
must be on level ground. The
professional to remove the
engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow
excess amount of oil.
loop. See Engine Compartment
Overview on page 10‑8 for the See Engine Compartment Overview
location of the engine oil dipstick. If the oil is below the cross-hatched on page 10‑8 for the location of the
area at the tip of the dipstick, add engine oil fill cap.
Obtaining an accurate oil level
reading is essential: 1 L (1 qt) of the recommended oil Add enough oil to put the level
and then recheck the level. See somewhere in the proper operating
1. If the engine has been running “Selecting the Right Engine Oil” in range. Push the dipstick all the way
recently, turn off the engine and this section for an explanation of back in when through.
allow several minutes for the oil what kind of oil to use. For engine
to drain back into the oil pan. oil crankcase capacity, see Selecting the Right Engine Oil
Checking the oil level too soon Capacities and Specifications on
after engine shutoff will not Selecting the right engine oil
page 12‑2. depends on both the proper oil
provide an accurate oil level
reading. Notice: Do not add too much oil. specification and viscosity grade.
Oil levels above or below the See Recommended Fluids and
2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it acceptable operating range Lubricants on page 11‑12.
with a paper towel or cloth, then shown on the dipstick are harmful
push it back in all the way. Specification
to the engine. If you find that
Remove it again, keeping the tip you have an oil level above the Use and ask for licensed engine
down, and check the level. operating range, i.e., the engine oils with the dexos1™ approved
has so much oil that the oil level certification mark. Engine oils
gets above the cross-hatched meeting the requirements for the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
vehicle should have the dexos1 If in an area of extreme cold, where What to Do with Used Oil
approved certification mark. This the temperature falls below −20°F
Used engine oil contains certain
certification mark indicates that the (−29°C), an SAE 0W‐30 oil should
elements that can be unhealthy for
oil has been approved to the dexos1 be used. An oil of this viscosity
your skin and could even cause
specification. grade will provide easier cold
cancer. Do not let used oil stay on
starting for the engine at extremely
your skin for very long. Clean your
low temperatures. When selecting
skin and nails with soap and water,
an oil of the appropriate viscosity
or a good hand cleaner. Wash or
grade, always select an oil that
properly dispose of clothing or rags
meets the dexos1 specification or
containing used engine oil. See the
equivalent. See “Specification” for
manufacturer's warnings about the
more information.
use and disposal of oil products.
Notice: Failure to use the Engine Oil Additives/Engine
recommended engine oil or Used oil can be a threat to the
Oil Flushes environment. If you change your
equivalent can result in engine
damage not covered by the Do not add anything to the oil. The own oil, be sure to drain all the oil
vehicle warranty. Check with your recommended oils with the dexos from the filter before disposal. Never
dealer or service provider on specification and displaying the dispose of oil by putting it in the
whether the oil is approved to the dexos certification mark are all that trash or pouring it on the ground,
dexos1 specification. is needed for good performance and into sewers, or into streams or
engine protection. bodies of water. Recycle it by taking
Viscosity Grade it to a place that collects used oil.
Engine oil system flushes are not
SAE 5W‐30 is the best viscosity recommended and could cause
grade for the vehicle. Do not use engine damage not covered by the
other viscosity grade oils such as vehicle warranty.
SAE 10W‐30, 10W‐40, or 20W‐50.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
Engine Oil Life System every two years and, at this time, 3. The DIC menu will display “Are
the system must be reset. Your you sure that you want to reset?”
When to Change Engine Oil dealer has trained service people Use SELECT to choose YES to
This vehicle has a computer system who will perform this work and reset reset oil life or NO to exit and
that indicates when to change the the system. It is also important to return to the previous menu.
engine oil and filter. This is based check the oil regularly over the 4. If YES is selected, the DIC menu
on a combination of factors which course of an oil drain interval and will display RESET OIL LIFE for
include engine revolutions, engine keep it at the proper level. a short time and then 100% OIL
temperature, and miles driven. If the system is ever reset LIFE will be displayed when OIL
Based on driving conditions, the accidentally, the oil must be LIFE is successfully reset.
mileage at which an oil change is changed at 5 000 km (3,000 mi) If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL SOON
indicated can vary considerably. For since the last oil change. message comes back on when the
the oil life system to work properly, Remember to reset the oil life vehicle is started, the engine oil life
the system must be reset every time system whenever the oil is changed. system has not reset. Repeat the
the oil is changed.
How to Reset the Engine Oil procedure.
When the system has calculated Life System
that oil life has been diminished, it Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
indicates that an oil change is Reset the system whenever the
necessary. A CHANGE ENGINE engine oil is changed so that the See Engine Compartment Overview
OIL SOON message comes on. system can calculate the next on page 10‑8 for the location of the
Change the oil as soon as possible engine oil change. To reset the engine air cleaner/filter.
within the next 1 000 km (600 mi). system:
When to Inspect the Engine Air
It is possible that, if driving under 1. Use the SELECT knob to select Filter
the best conditions, the oil life OIL LIFE on the DIC menu.
system might indicate that an oil Inspect the air filter at the scheduled
change is not necessary for up to 2. Press SELECT to start the OIL maintenance intervals and replace
two years. The engine oil and filter LIFE reset procedure. it at the first oil change after each
must be changed at least once 80 000 km (50,000 mi) interval.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (13,1)
3. Reconnect the air duct and Cooling System (Engine) If the coolant inside the coolant
tighten the air duct clamp (B). surge tank is boiling, do not do
When it is safe to lift the hood: anything else until it cools down.
4. Reconnect the electrical
connector (C). The vehicle should be parked on a
level surface.
{ WARNING The coolant level should be up to
the cold fill line. If it is not, there
Operating the engine with the air might be a leak at the radiator
cleaner/filter off can cause you hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water
or others to be burned. The air pump, or somewhere else in the
cleaner not only cleans the air; it cooling system.
helps to stop flames if the engine
backfires. Use caution when A. Engine Coolant Surge Tank and { WARNING
working on the engine and do not Pressure Cap
drive with the air cleaner/filter off. Heater and radiator hoses, and
B. Engine Cooling Fans (Out
other engine parts, can be very
of View)
hot. Do not touch them. If you do,
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is you can be burned.
off, dirt can easily get into the { WARNING Do not run the vehicle if there is
engine, which could damage it.
Always have the air cleaner/filter The electric fans under the hood a leak. If you run the engine, it
in place when you are driving. can start up even when the could lose all coolant. That could
engine is not running and can cause an engine fire, and you
cause injury. Keep hands, could be burned. Get any leak
clothing, and tools away from fixed before you drive the vehicle.
any underhood electric fan.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
If there seems to be no leak, with If the temperature rises above this The high voltage battery coolant
the engine on, check to see if the temperature, the battery cooling reservoir is located on the
electric cooling fans are running. system turns on the air conditioning passenger side of the engine
If the engine is overheating, the fans compressor and cools the coolant compartment. See Engine
should be running. If it is not, the until the correct temperature is Compartment Overview on
vehicle needs service. Turn off the reached. If the temperature falls page 10‑8 for more information on
vehicle. below this temperature, a high location.
Notice: Using coolant other than voltage heater, located in the
DEX-COOL® can cause premature battery, heats the coolant until the
engine, heater core, or radiator correct temperature is reached.
corrosion. In addition, the engine What to Use
coolant could require changing
sooner, at 50 000 km (30,000 mi) The high voltage battery coolant
or 24 months, whichever occurs reservoir in the vehicle is filled with
first. Any repairs would not be a 50/50 mixture of DEX-COOL
covered by the vehicle warranty. engine coolant and deionized water.
Always use DEX-COOL If using this mixture, nothing else
(silicate-free) coolant in the needs to be added. Check to see if coolant is visible in
vehicle. the high voltage battery coolant
Checking Coolant reservoir. If coolant is visible but the
Cooling System (High The vehicle must be on a level coolant level is below the cold fill
surface when checking the coolant line, there could be a leak in the
Voltage Battery) level. cooling system.
During vehicle operation and The high voltage battery coolant
also during charging, the high should only be serviced by a
voltage battery cells in the qualified technician.
vehicle are kept within a normal
operating temperature range.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
Cooling System (Power Checking Coolant The power electronics and charger
modules coolant should only be
Electronics and Charger The vehicle must be on a level
serviced by a qualified technician.
Modules) surface when checking the coolant
level.
The power electronics and charger Engine Coolant
modules are cooled using the same The power electronics and charger
modules coolant reservoir is located The engine cooling system in the
coolant loop. vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL
on the driver side of the engine
The power electronics and charger compartment. See Engine engine coolant. This coolant is
modules in the vehicle are kept Compartment Overview on designed to remain in the vehicle for
below a maximum temperature. page 10‑8 for more information on 5 years or 240 000 km (150,000 mi),
If the temperature rises above this location. whichever occurs first.
temperature, the electric cooling The following explains the cooling
fans will turn on and cool the system and how to check and add
coolant until the correct temperature coolant when it is low. If there is a
is reached. problem with engine overheating,
What to Use see Engine Overheating on
page 10‑19.
The power electronics and charger
modules coolant reservoir in the What to Use
vehicle is filled with a 50/50 mixture
of DEX-COOL engine coolant and { WARNING
deionized water. If using this Check to see if coolant is visible in
mixture, nothing else needs to be the power electronics and charger Adding only plain water or some
added. modules coolant reservoir. If coolant other liquid to the cooling system
is visible but the coolant level is can be dangerous. Plain water
below the cold fill line, there could and other liquids, can boil before
be a leak in the cooling system. (Continued)
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (17,1)
Properly torqued wheel nuts are Replacing Brake System Parts Brake Fluid
necessary to help prevent brake
The braking system on a vehicle is
pulsation. When tires are rotated,
complex. Its many parts have to be
inspect brake pads for wear and
of top quality and work well together
evenly tighten wheel nuts in the
if the vehicle is to have really good
proper sequence to torque
braking. The vehicle was designed
specifications in Capacities and
and tested with top-quality brake
Specifications on page 12‑2.
parts. When parts of the braking
Brake linings should always be system are replaced, be sure to get The brake master cylinder reservoir
replaced as complete axle sets. new, approved replacement parts. is filled with DOT 3 brake fluid as
If this is not done, the brakes might indicated on the reservoir cap. See
Brake Pedal Travel not work properly. For example, Engine Compartment Overview on
See your dealer if the brake pedal installing disc brake pads that are page 10‑8 for the location of the
does not return to normal height, wrong for the vehicle, can change reservoir.
or if there is a rapid increase in the balance between the front and
pedal travel. This could be a sign rear brakes — for the worse. The There are only two reasons why the
that brake service might be braking performance expected can brake fluid level in the reservoir
required. change in many other ways if the might go down:
wrong replacement brake parts are . The brake fluid level goes down
Brake Adjustment installed. because of normal brake lining
Every time the brakes are applied, wear. When new linings are
with or without the vehicle moving, installed, the fluid level goes
the brakes adjust for wear. back up.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (22,1)
3. With the vehicle off and the Park on a fairly steep hill, with the Wiper Blade Replacement
brake not applied, press and vehicle facing downhill. Keeping
your foot on the regular brake, set Windshield wiper blades should be
hold the POWER O button for
the electric parking brake. inspected for wear and cracking.
more than five seconds to place See Maintenance Schedule on
the vehicle in Service Only . To check the electric parking page 11‑3 for more information.
Mode. See Power Button on brake's holding ability: With the
page 9‑16. Without applying the propulsion system active and the Replacement blades come in
regular brake, try to move the electric drive unit in N (Neutral), different types and are removed
shift lever out of P (Park) with slowly remove foot pressure in different ways. For proper type
normal effort. If the shift lever from the regular brake pedal. Do and length, see Maintenance
moves out of P (Park), contact this until the vehicle is held by Replacement Parts on page 11‑13.
your dealer for service. the electric parking brake only. Notice: Allowing the wiper blade
. To check the P (Park) arm to touch the windshield when
Park Brake and P (Park) mechanism's holding ability: no wiper blade is installed could
Mechanism Check With the propulsion system damage the windshield. Any
active, shift to P (Park). Then damage that occurs would not be
covered by your warranty. Do not
{ WARNING release the electric parking
brake followed by the regular allow the wiper blade arm to
When you are doing this check, brake. touch the windshield.
the vehicle could begin to move. Contact your dealer if service is To replace the windshield wiper
You or others could be injured required. blade:
and property could be damaged. 1. Pull the windshield wiper
Make sure there is room in front assembly away from the
of the vehicle in case it begins to windshield.
roll. Be ready to apply the regular
brake at once should the vehicle
begin to move.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (26,1)
LED Lighting
This vehicle has several LED lamps.
For replacement of any LED lighting
assembly, contact your dealer.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (27,1)
Headlamps 6. Install the bulb socket by turning 3. Remove the air cleaner
it clockwise. assembly by pulling up to
Driver Side Headlamps 7. Install the cover in the back of release the rear two retention
To replace the high/low‐beam the headlamp assembly by posts from the securing
headlamp: turning it clockwise. grommets. Then pull it forward to
remove the remaining retention
1. Open the hood. See Hood on Passenger Side Headlamps post from the securing grommet.
page 10‑7.
To replace the high/low‐beam
headlamp:
1. Open the hood. See Hood on
page 10‑7.
Engine Compartment
Fuse Block
To open the fuse block cover, press A fuse puller is located in the engine Mini Usage
the clips at the front and back and compartment fuse block. Fuses
rotate the cover up to the side. The vehicle may not be equipped Engine Control
with all of the fuses, relays, and 1
Notice: Spilling liquid on any Module – Switched Power
electrical component on the features shown.
2 Emissions
vehicle may damage it. Always
keep the covers on any electrical 3 Not Used
component.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (32,1)
Micro Usage
Relays
6 Empty
8 Empty
10 Empty
F3 Empty
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (37,1)
Winter tires, in general, are tires with a lower speed rating are aspect ratio, construction type,
designed for increased traction on chosen, never exceed the tire's and service description. See the
snow and ice covered roads. With maximum speed capability. “Tire Size” illustration later in this
winter tires, there may be decreased section for more detail.
dry road traction, increased road Tire Sidewall Labeling
noise, and shorter tread life. After (B) TPC Spec (Tire
changing to winter tires, be alert for Useful information about a tire Performance Criteria
changes in vehicle handling and is molded into its sidewall. The Specification): Original
braking. examples show a typical equipment tires designed to
See your dealer for details passenger tire sidewall. GM's specific tire performance
regarding winter tire availability and criteria have a TPC specification
proper tire selection. Also, see code molded onto the sidewall.
Buying New Tires on page 10‑54. GM's TPC specifications meet
If using snow tires: or exceed all federal safety
. Use tires of the same brand and
guidelines.
tread type on all four wheel (C) DOT (Department of
positions. Transportation): The
. Use only radial ply tires of the Department of Transportation
same size, load range, and (DOT) code indicates that
speed rating as the original the tire is in compliance with
equipment tires. the U.S. Department of
Winter tires with the same speed Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire Example Transportation Motor Vehicle
rating as the original equipment tires (A) Tire Size: The tire size is Safety Standards.
may not be available for H, V, W, Y, a combination of letters and
and ZR speed rated tires. If winter numbers used to define a
particular tire's width, height,
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (42,1)
(D) Tire Identification Number (G) Maximum Cold Inflation vehicle tire engineered to
(TIN): The letters and numbers Load Limit: Maximum load standards set by the U.S. Tire
following the DOT code are that can be carried and the and Rim Association.
the Tire Identification Number maximum pressure needed to (B) Tire Width: The three‐digit
(TIN). The TIN shows the support that load. number indicates the tire section
manufacturer and plant code, width in millimeters from
tire size, and date the tire was Tire Designations sidewall to sidewall.
manufactured. The TIN is
Tire Size (C) Aspect Ratio: A two‐digit
molded onto both sides of the
tire, although only one side may The following is an example of a number that indicates the tire
have the date of manufacture. typical passenger vehicle height‐to‐width measurements.
tire size. For example, if the tire size
(E) Tire Ply Material : The type aspect ratio is 60, as shown in
of cord and number of plies in item C of the illustration, it would
the sidewall and under the tread. mean that the tire's sidewall is
(F) Uniform Tire Quality 60 percent as high as it is wide.
Grading (UTQG): Tire (D) Construction Code: A
manufacturers are required to letter code is used to indicate
grade tires based on three the type of ply construction in
performance factors: treadwear, (A) Passenger (P‐Metric) Tire:
The United States version of a the tire. The letter R means
traction, and temperature radial ply construction; the
resistance. For more information metric tire sizing system. The
letter P as the first character in letter D means diagonal or
see Uniform Tire Quality bias ply construction; and the
Grading on page 10‑55. the tire size means a passenger
letter B means belted‐bias ply
construction.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (43,1)
(E) Rim Diameter : Diameter of drive unit, power steering, power before a tire has built up heat
the wheel in inches. brakes, power windows, power from driving. See Tire Pressure
(F) Service Description: These seats, and air conditioning. on page 10‑46.
characters represent the load Aspect Ratio: The relationship Curb Weight: The weight of a
index and speed rating of the of a tire's height to its width. motor vehicle with standard and
tire. The load index represents Belt: A rubber coated layer of optional equipment including
the load carrying capacity a tire cords that is located between the maximum capacity of fuel,
is certified to carry. The speed the plies and the tread. Cords oil, and coolant, but without
rating is the maximum speed a may be made from steel or other passengers and cargo.
tire is certified to carry a load. reinforcing materials. DOT Markings: A code molded
Bead: The tire bead contains into the sidewall of a tire
Tire Terminology and signifying that the tire is in
Definitions steel wires wrapped by steel
cords that hold the tire onto compliance with the U.S.
Air Pressure: The amount the rim. Department of Transportation
of air inside the tire pressing (DOT) Motor Vehicle Safety
outward on each square inch Bias Ply Tire: A pneumatic tire Standards. The DOT code
of the tire. Air pressure is in which the plies are laid at includes the Tire Identification
expressed in kPa (kilopascal) alternate angles less than Number (TIN), an alphanumeric
or psi (pounds per square inch). 90 degrees to the centerline of designator which can also
the tread. identify the tire manufacturer,
Accessory Weight: The production plant, brand, and
combined weight of optional Cold Tire Pressure: The
amount of air pressure in a tire, date of production.
accessories. Some examples of
optional accessories are, electric measured in kPa (kilopascal) GVWR: Gross Vehicle Weight
or psi (pounds per square inch) Rating. See Vehicle Load Limits
on page 9‑11.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (44,1)
GAWR FRT: Gross Axle Weight Maximum Inflation Pressure: outward when mounted on a
Rating for the front axle. See The maximum air pressure to vehicle. The side of the tire that
Vehicle Load Limits on which a cold tire can be inflated. contains a whitewall, bears
page 9‑11. The maximum air pressure is white lettering, or bears
GAWR RR: Gross Axle Weight molded onto the sidewall. manufacturer, brand, and/or
Rating for the rear axle. See Maximum Load Rating: The model name molding that is
Vehicle Load Limits on load rating for a tire at the higher or deeper than the same
page 9‑11. maximum permissible inflation moldings on the other sidewall
pressure for that tire. of the tire.
Intended Outboard Sidewall :
The side of an asymmetrical tire, Maximum Loaded Vehicle Passenger (P-Metric) Tire: A
that must always face outward Weight: The sum of curb tire used on passenger cars
when mounted on a vehicle. weight, accessory weight, and some light duty trucks and
vehicle capacity weight, and multipurpose vehicles.
Kilopascal (kPa): The metric
unit for air pressure. production options weight. Recommended Inflation
Normal Occupant Weight: The Pressure: Vehicle
Light Truck (LT‐Metric) Tire: A manufacturer's recommended
tire used on light duty trucks and number of occupants a vehicle
is designed to seat multiplied by tire inflation pressure as shown
some multipurpose passenger on the tire placard. See Tire
vehicles. 68 kg (150 lbs). See Vehicle
Load Limits on page 9‑11. Pressure on page 10‑46 and
Load Index: An assigned Vehicle Load Limits on
number ranging from 1 to 279 Occupant Distribution : page 9‑11.
that corresponds to the load Designated seating positions.
carrying capacity of a tire. Outward Facing Sidewall: The
side of an asymmetrical tire that
has a particular side that faces
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (45,1)
Radial Ply Tire: A pneumatic Treadwear Indicators: Narrow Vehicle Capacity Weight: The
tire in which the ply cords that bands, sometimes called wear number of designated seating
extend to the beads are laid at bars, that show across the tread positions multiplied by
90 degrees to the centerline of of a tire when only 1.6 mm 68 kg (150 lbs) plus the rated
the tread. (1/16 in) of tread remains. See cargo load. See Vehicle Load
Rim: A metal support for a tire When It Is Time for New Tires Limits on page 9‑11.
and upon which the tire beads on page 10‑53. Vehicle Maximum Load on the
are seated. UTQGS (Uniform Tire Quality Tire: Load on an individual tire
Sidewall: The portion of a tire Grading Standards): A tire due to curb weight, accessory
between the tread and the bead. information system that provides weight, occupant weight, and
consumers with ratings for a cargo weight.
Speed Rating: An tire's traction, temperature,
alphanumeric code assigned to Vehicle Placard: A label
and treadwear. Ratings permanently attached to a
a tire indicating the maximum are determined by tire
speed at which a tire can vehicle showing the vehicle's
manufacturers using capacity weight and the
operate. government testing procedures. original equipment tire size
Traction: The friction between The ratings are molded into the and recommended inflation
the tire and the road surface. sidewall of the tire. See Uniform pressure. See “Tire and Loading
The amount of grip provided. Tire Quality Grading on Information Label” under Vehicle
page 10‑55. Load Limits on page 9‑11.
Tread: The portion of a tire
that comes into contact with
the road.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (46,1)
Tire Pressure
. Rough ride. When to Check
Tires need the correct amount
. Needless damage from Check the tires once a month
of air pressure to operate road hazards. or more.
effectively. The Tire and Loading How to Check
Notice: Neither tire Information label on the vehicle
indicates the original equipment Use a good quality pocket-type
underinflation nor gauge to check the tire
overinflation is good. tires and the correct cold tire
inflation pressures. The pressure. Proper tire inflation
Underinflated tires, or tires cannot be determined by looking
that do not have enough air, recommended pressure is the
minimum air pressure needed to at the tire. Check the tire
can result in: inflation pressure when the tires
support the vehicle's maximum
. Tire overloading and load carrying capacity. are cold, meaning the vehicle
overheating which could has not been driven for at least
lead to a blowout. For additional information three hours or no more than
regarding how much weight 1.6 km (1 mi).
. Premature or the vehicle can carry, and an
irregular wear. example of the Tire and Loading Remove the valve cap from the
Information label, see Vehicle tire valve stem. Press the tire
. Poor handling.
Load Limits on page 9‑11. How gauge firmly onto the valve to
. Reduced fuel economy. the vehicle is loaded affects get the pressure measurement.
Overinflated tires, or tires that vehicle handling and ride If the cold tire inflation pressure
have too much air, can comfort. Never load the vehicle matches the recommended
result in: with more weight than it was pressure on the Tire and
designed to carry. Loading Information label, no
. Unusual wear. further adjustment is necessary.
. Poor handling.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (47,1)
If the inflation pressure is low, vehicle placard or tire inflation Please note that the TPMS is
add air until the recommended pressure label. (If your vehicle has not a substitute for proper tire
pressure is reached. If the tires of a different size than the size maintenance, and it is the driver's
inflation pressure in high, press indicated on the vehicle placard or responsibility to maintain correct tire
tire inflation pressure label, you pressure, even if under‐inflation has
on the metal stem in the center
should determine the proper tire not reached the level to trigger
of the tire valve to release air. inflation pressure for those tires.) illumination of the TPMS low tire
Re‐check the tire pressure with pressure telltale.
the tire gauge. As an added safety feature, your
vehicle has been equipped with a Your vehicle has also been
Return the valve caps on the tire pressure monitoring system equipped with a TPMS malfunction
valve stems to keep out dirt and (TPMS) that illuminates a low tire indicator to indicate when the
moisture and prevent leaks. pressure telltale when one or system is not operating properly.
more of your tires is significantly The TPMS malfunction indicator is
Tire Pressure Monitor under‐inflated. combined with the low tire pressure
telltale. When the system detects a
System Accordingly, when the low tire
malfunction, the telltale will flash for
pressure telltale illuminates, you
The Tire Pressure Monitor System should stop and check your tires as approximately one minute and then
(TPMS) uses radio and sensor soon as possible, and inflate them remain continuously illuminated.
technology to check tire pressure to the proper pressure. Driving on a This sequence will continue upon
levels. The TPMS sensors monitor significantly under‐inflated tire subsequent vehicle start‐ups as
the air pressure in your tires and causes the tire to overheat and can long as the malfunction exists.
transmit tire pressure readings to a lead to tire failure. Under‐inflation
receiver located in the vehicle. also reduces fuel efficiency and
Each tire, including the spare tire tread life, and may affect the
(if provided), should be checked vehicle's handling and stopping
monthly when cold and inflated to ability.
the inflation pressure recommended
by the vehicle manufacturer on the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (48,1)
When the malfunction indicator is Communications Commission (FCC) located on the instrument cluster.
illuminated, the system may not be Rules and with Industry Canada If the warning light comes on, stop
able to detect or signal low tire Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310. as soon as possible and inflate the
pressure as intended. TPMS tires to the recommended pressure
malfunctions may occur for a variety Tire Pressure Monitor shown on the Tire Loading and
of reasons, including the installation Information label. See Vehicle Load
of replacement or alternate tires or
Operation Limits on page 9‑11.
wheels on the vehicle that prevent This vehicle may have a Tire
A message to check the pressure in
the TPMS from functioning properly. Pressure Monitor System (TPMS).
a specific tire displays in the Driver
Always check the TPMS malfunction The TPMS is designed to warn the
Information Center (DIC). The low
telltale after replacing one or more driver when a low tire pressure
tire pressure warning light and the
tires or wheels on your vehicle to condition exists. TPMS sensors are
DIC warning message come on at
ensure that the replacement or mounted onto each tire and wheel
each drive cycle until the tires are
alternate tires and wheels allow assembly. The TPMS sensors
inflated to the correct inflation
the TPMS to continue to function monitor the air pressure in the tires
pressure. Using the DIC, tire
properly. and transmit the tire pressure
pressure levels can be viewed. For
readings to a receiver located in the
See Tire Pressure Monitor additional information and details
vehicle.
Operation on page 10‑48 for about the DIC operation and
additional information. displays see Driver Information
Center (DIC) on page 5‑43.
Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules and The low tire pressure warning light
with Industry Canada may come on in cool weather when
the vehicle is first started, and then
Standards turn off as the vehicle is driven. This
See Radio Frequency Statement on could be an early indicator that the
When a low tire pressure condition
page 13‑16 for information air pressure is getting low and
is detected, the TPMS illuminates
regarding Part 15 of the Federal needs to be inflated to the proper
the low tire pressure warning light
pressure.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (49,1)
A Tire and Loading Information Factory-installed Tire Inflator Kits The malfunction light and DIC
label shows the size of the original use a GM-approved liquid tire warning message come on at each
equipment tires and the correct sealant. Using non-approved tire vehicle on/off cycle until the problem
inflation pressure for the tires when sealants could damage the TPMS is corrected. Some of the conditions
they are cold. See Vehicle Load sensors. See Tire Sealant and that can cause these to come
Limits on page 9‑11, for an example Compressor Kit on page 10‑60 for on are:
of the Tire and Loading Information information regarding the inflator kit . One of the road tires has been
label and its location. Also see Tire materials and instructions. replaced with the spare tire,
Pressure on page 10‑46. if the vehicle has one. The spare
TPMS Malfunction Light and
The TPMS can warn about a Message tire does not have a TPMS
low tire pressure condition but it sensor. The malfunction light
does not replace normal tire The TPMS will not function properly and DIC message should go off
maintenance. See Tire Inspection if one or more of the TPMS sensors after the road tire is replaced
on page 10‑51, Tire Rotation on are missing or inoperable. When the and the sensor matching
page 10‑52, and Tires on system detects a malfunction, the process is performed
page 10‑40. low tire pressure warning light successfully. See "TPMS Sensor
flashes for about one minute and Matching Process" later in this
Notice: Tire sealant materials are then stays on for the remainder of
not all the same. A non-approved section.
the vehicle on/off cycle. A DIC
tire sealant could damage the warning message also displays.
TPMS sensors. TPMS sensor
damage caused by using an
incorrect tire sealant is not
covered by the vehicle
warranty. Always use only
the GM-approved tire sealant
available through your dealer or
included in the vehicle.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (50,1)
5. Press and hold the SELECT 9. Proceed to the passenger Tire Inspection
knob for five seconds to begin side front tire, and repeat the
the sensor matching process. procedure in Step 8. We recommend that the tires,
including the spare tire, if the
A message displays confirming 10. Proceed to the passenger
to begin the process. side rear tire, and repeat the vehicle has one, be inspected
procedure in Step 8. for signs of wear or damage at
6. Use the SELECT knob to select least once a month.
YES with the highlighted 11. Proceed to the driver side rear
selection, and press the tire, and repeat the procedure Replace the tire if:
SELECT knob again to confirm in Step 8. The horn sounds . The indicators at three or
the selection. two times to indicate the
sensor identification code has
more places around the tire
The horn sounds twice to signal can be seen.
the receiver is in relearn mode been matched to the driver
and the TIRE LEARNING side rear tire, and the TPMS . There is cord or fabric
ACTIVE message displays on sensor matching process is showing through the tire's
the DIC screen. no longer active. The TIRE rubber.
LEARNING ACTIVE message
7. Start with the driver side on the DIC display screen . The tread or sidewall is
front tire. goes off. cracked, cut, or snagged
8. Place the relearn tool against 12. Turn the vehicle off. deep enough to show cord or
the tire sidewall, near the valve fabric.
stem. Then press the button to 13. Set all four tires to the
recommended air pressure . The tire has a bump, bulge,
activate the TPMS sensor.
A horn chirp confirms that the level as indicated on the Tire or split.
sensor identification code has and Loading Information label.
been matched to this tire and
wheel position.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (52,1)
Lightly coat the center of the maintenance affect how fast aging
wheel hub with wheel bearing takes place. Tires will typically
grease after a wheel change or need to be replaced due to wear
tire rotation to prevent corrosion before they may need to be
replaced due to age. Consult the tire
or rust build-up. Do not get
manufacturer for more information
grease on the flat wheel on when tires should be replaced.
mounting surface or on the
wheel nuts or bolts. Vehicle Storage
Tires age when stored normally
When It Is Time for New mounted on a parked vehicle. Park
Tires a vehicle that will be stored for at
least a month in a cool, dry, clean
Factors such as maintenance, Treadwear indicators are one way
area away from direct sunlight to
temperatures, driving speeds, to tell when it is time for new tires.
slow aging. This area should be
vehicle loading, and road conditions Treadwear indicators appear when
free of grease, gasoline, or other
affect the wear rate of the tires. the tires have only 1.6 mm (1/16 in)
substances that can deteriorate
or less of tread remaining. See Tire
rubber.
Inspection on page 10‑51 and Tire
Rotation on page 10‑52 for more Parking for an extended period can
information. cause flat spots on the tires that
may result in vibrations while
The rubber in tires ages over time.
driving. When storing a vehicle for
This also applies for the spare tire,
at least a month, remove the tires
if the vehicle has one, even if it is
or raise the vehicle to reduce the
never used. Multiple conditions
weight from the tires.
including temperatures, loading
conditions, and inflation pressure
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (54,1)
the same size, load range, speed brakes, rollover airbags, traction Uniform Tire Quality
rating, and construction (radial) as control, and electronic stability
the original tires. control, the performance of these
Grading
Vehicles that have a tire pressure systems can also be affected. Quality grades can be found
monitoring system could give an where applicable on the tire
inaccurate low‐pressure warning { WARNING sidewall between tread shoulder
if non‐TPC Spec rated tires are and maximum section width. For
installed. See Tire Pressure Monitor If different sized wheels are used, example:
System on page 10‑47. there may not be an acceptable
level of performance and safety Treadwear 200 Traction AA
The Tire and Loading Information if tires not recommended for Temperature A
Label indicates the original those wheels are selected. This
equipment tires on the vehicle. See The following information relates
increases the chance of a crash
Vehicle Load Limits on page 9‑11,
and serious injury. Only use GM
to the system developed by the
for the label location and more United States National Highway
information about the Tire and specific wheel and tire systems
developed for the vehicle, and Traffic Safety Administration
Loading Information label. (NHTSA), which grades tires
have them properly installed by a
GM certified technician. by treadwear, traction, and
Different Size Tires and temperature performance. This
Wheels applies only to vehicles sold in
See Buying New Tires on
If wheels or tires are installed that page 10‑54 and Accessories and
the United States. The grades
are a different size than the original Modifications on page 10‑3 for are molded on the sidewalls
equipment wheels and tires, vehicle additional information. of most passenger car tires.
performance, including its braking,
ride and handling characteristics,
stability, and resistance to rollover
may be affected. If the vehicle has
electronic systems such as antilock
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (56,1)
to sudden tire failure. The will not be necessary on a regular Replace wheels, wheel bolts, wheel
grade C corresponds to a basis. However, check the nuts, or Tire Pressure Monitor
level of performance which all alignment if there is unusual tire System (TPMS) sensors with new
passenger car tires must meet wear or if the vehicle is pulling to GM original equipment parts.
one side or the other. If the vehicle
under the Federal Motor Safety
Standard No. 109. Grades B
vibrates when driving on a smooth
road, the tires and wheels might
{ WARNING
and A represent higher levels of need to be rebalanced. See your Using the wrong replacement
performance on the laboratory dealer for proper diagnosis. wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel
test wheel than the minimum nuts can be dangerous. It could
required by law. Warning: The Wheel Replacement affect the braking and handling of
temperature grade for this tire the vehicle. Tires can lose air,
Replace any wheel that is bent,
is established for a tire that is cracked, or badly rusted or and cause loss of control, causing
properly inflated and not corroded. If wheel nuts keep coming a crash. Always use the correct
overloaded. Excessive speed, loose, the wheel, wheel bolts and wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel
underinflation, or excessive wheel nuts should be replaced. nuts for replacement.
loading, either separately or in If the wheel leaks air, replace it.
combination, can cause heat Some aluminum wheels can be Notice: The wrong wheel can
buildup and possible tire failure. repaired. See your dealer if any of also cause problems with bearing
these conditions exist. life, brake cooling, speedometer
Wheel Alignment and Tire Your dealer will know the kind of or odometer calibration,
Balance wheel that is needed. headlamp aim, bumper height,
vehicle ground clearance, and tire
The tires and wheels were aligned Each new wheel should have the
clearance to the body and
and balanced at the factory to same load-carrying capacity,
chassis.
provide the longest tire life and best diameter, width, offset and be
overall performance. Adjustments to mounted the same way as the
wheel alignment and tire balancing one it replaces.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (58,1)
If this vehicle has a tire sealant and The kit includes: A. Selector Switch (Sealant/Air or
compressor kit, there may not be a Air Only)
spare tire, tire changing equipment, B. On/Off Button
and on some vehicles there may not
be a place to store a tire. C. Pressure Gauge
The tire sealant and compressor D. Pressure Deflation Button
can be used to temporarily seal (If equipped)
punctures up to 6 mm (¼ in) in the E. Tire Sealant Canister
tread area of the tire. It can also be
used to inflate an underinflated tire. F. Sealant/Air Hose (Clear)
If the tire has been separated from G. Air Only Hose (Black)
the wheel, has damaged sidewalls, H. Power Plug
or has a large puncture, the tire is
too severely damaged for the tire Tire Sealant
sealant and compressor kit to be Read and follow the safe handling
effective. See Roadside Assistance instructions on the label adhered to
Program on page 13‑6. the sealant canister.
Read and follow all of the tire Check the tire sealant expiration
sealant and compressor kit date on the sealant canister.
instructions. The sealant canister should be
replaced before its expiration date.
Replacement sealant canisters are
available at your local dealer. See
“Removal and Installation of the
Sealant Canister” following.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (62,1)
There is only enough sealant to seal heated environment for five minutes.
one tire. After usage, the sealant This will help to inflate the tire
canister and sealant/air hose faster.
assembly must be replaced. See If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
“Removal and Installation of the and wheel damage by driving slowly
Sealant Canister” following. to a level place. Turn on the hazard
Using the Tire Sealant and warning flashers. See Hazard
Compressor Kit to Temporarily Warning Flashers on page 6‑3.
Seal and Inflate a See If a Tire Goes Flat on
Punctured Tire page 10‑59 for other important
safety warnings.
Follow the directions closely for
correct sealant usage. Do not remove any objects that
have penetrated the tire.
1. Remove the tire sealant and
compressor kit from its storage
location. See Storing the Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
page 10‑67.
2. Unwrap the sealant/air hose (F)
and the power plug (H).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
When using the tire sealant and positioned close to the ground
compressor kit during cold so the hose will reach it.
temperatures, warm the kit in a
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (63,1)
4. Remove the valve stem cap 9. Press the on/off button (B) to reading. The compressor may
from the flat tire by turning it turn the tire sealant and be turned on/off until the
counterclockwise. compressor kit on. correct pressure is reached.
5. Attach the sealant/air hose (F) The compressor will inject Notice: If the recommended
onto the tire valve stem. Turn it sealant and air into the tire. pressure cannot be reached after
clockwise until it is tight. The pressure gauge (C) will approximately 25 minutes, the
6. Plug the power plug (H) into the initially show a high pressure vehicle should not be driven
accessory power outlet in the while the compressor pushes the farther. The tire is too severely
vehicle. Unplug all items from sealant into the tire. Once the damaged and the tire sealant and
other accessory power outlets. sealant is completely dispersed compressor kit cannot inflate the
See Power Outlets on page 5‑9. into the tire, the pressure will tire. Remove the power plug from
quickly drop and start to rise the accessory power outlet and
If the vehicle has an accessory unscrew the inflating hose from
power outlet, do not use the again as the tire inflates with
air only. the tire valve. See Roadside
cigarette lighter. Assistance Program on
If the vehicle only has a cigarette 10. Inflate the tire to the page 13‑6.
lighter, use the cigarette lighter. recommended inflation
pressure using the pressure 11. Press the on/off button (B) to
Do not pinch the power plug gauge (C). The recommended turn the tire sealant and
cord in the door or window. inflation pressure can be found compressor kit off.
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle on the Tire and Loading The tire is not sealed and will
must be running while using the Information label. See Tire continue to leak air until the
air compressor. Pressure on page 10‑46. vehicle is driven and the
The pressure gauge (C) may sealant is distributed in
8. Turn the selector switch (A) the tire; therefore, Steps 12
counterclockwise to the read higher than the actual tire
pressure while the compressor through 18 must be done
Sealant + Air position. immediately after Step 11.
is on. Turn the compressor off
to get an accurate pressure
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (64,1)
Be careful while handling the maximum speed label from the If the tire pressure has fallen
tire sealant and compressor sealant canister (E) and place more than 68 kPa (10 psi)
kit as it could be warm after it in a highly visible location. below the recommended
usage. The label is a reminder not to inflation pressure, stop driving
12. Unplug the power plug (H) from exceed 90 km/h (55 mph) until the vehicle. The tire is too
the accessory power outlet in the damaged tire is repaired or severely damaged and the tire
the vehicle. replaced. sealant cannot seal the tire.
17. Return the equipment to its See Roadside Assistance
13. Turn the sealant/air hose (F) Program on page 13‑6.
counterclockwise to remove it original storage location in the
from the tire valve stem. vehicle. If the tire pressure has not
18. Immediately drive the vehicle dropped more than 68 kPa
14. Replace the tire valve (10 psi) from the recommended
stem cap. 8 km (5 mi) to distribute the
sealant in the tire. inflation pressure, inflate the
15. Replace the sealant/air tire to the recommended
hose (F), and the power 19. Stop at a safe location and inflation pressure.
plug (H) back in their original check the tire pressure. Refer
to Steps 1 through 11 under 20. Wipe off any sealant from the
location. wheel, tire, and vehicle.
“Using the Tire Sealant and
Compressor Kit without 21. Dispose of the used sealant
Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not canister (E) and sealant/air
Punctured).” hose (F) assembly at a local
dealer or in accordance with
local state codes and practices.
22. Replace it with a new canister
16. If the flat tire was able to available from your dealer.
inflate to the recommended
inflation pressure, remove the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (65,1)
23. After temporarily sealing a tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire
using the tire sealant and and wheel damage by driving slowly
compressor kit, take the to a level place. Turn on the hazard
vehicle to an authorized dealer warning flashers. See Hazard
within a 161 km (100 mi) of Warning Flashers on page 6‑3.
driving to have the tire repaired See If a Tire Goes Flat on
or replaced. page 10‑59 for other important
Using the Tire Sealant and safety warnings.
Compressor Kit without 1. Remove the tire sealant and
Sealant to Inflate a Tire (Not compressor kit from its storage
Punctured) location. See Storing the Tire
Sealant and Compressor Kit on
To use the air compressor to inflate
page 10‑67.
a tire with air only and not sealant:
2. Unwrap the air only hose (G)
and the power plug (H).
3. Place the kit on the ground.
Make sure the tire valve stem is
positioned close to the ground
so the hose will reach it.
4. Remove the tire valve stem cap
from the flat tire by turning it
counterclockwise.
5. Attach the air only hose (G) onto
the tire valve stem by turning it
clockwise until it is tight.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (66,1)
6. Plug the power plug (H) into the 10. Inflate the tire to the 11. Press the on/off button (B) to
accessory power outlet in the recommended inflation turn the tire sealant and
vehicle. Unplug all items from pressure using the pressure compressor kit off.
other accessory power outlets. gauge (C). The recommended Be careful while handling the
See Power Outlets on page 5‑9. inflation pressure can be found tire sealant and compressor kit
If the vehicle has an accessory on the Tire and Loading as it could be warm after
power outlet, do not use the Information label. See Tire usage.
cigarette lighter. Pressure on page 10‑46.
12. Unplug the power plug (H) from
If the vehicle only has a cigarette The pressure gauge (C) may the accessory power outlet in
lighter, use the cigarette lighter. read higher than the actual tire the vehicle.
pressure while the compressor
Do not pinch the power plug is on. Turn the compressor off 13. Disconnect the air only
cord in the door or window. to get an accurate reading. The hose (G) from the tire
7. Start the vehicle. The vehicle compressor may be turned on/ valve stem by turning it
must be running while using the off until the correct pressure is counterclockwise, and replace
air compressor. reached. the tire valve stem cap.
8. Turn the selector switch (A) If you inflate the tire higher 14. Replace the air only hose (G)
clockwise to the Air Only than the recommended and the power plug (H) and
position. pressure you can adjust the cord back in their original
excess pressure by pressing locations.
9. Press the on/off (B) button to the pressure deflation
turn the compressor on. 15. Place the equipment in the
button (D), if equipped, until the original storage location in the
The compressor will inflate the proper pressure reading is vehicle.
tire with air only. reached. This option is only
functional when using the air
only hose (G).
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (67,1)
Before connecting the jumper Connecting the Jumper Cables 12‐volt battery. The jumper
cables, here are some basic 1. Connect the red positive (+) cables can then be
things to know. Positive (+) jumper cable to the remote disconnected. If the Volt does
jumper cable goes to positive (+) positive (+) terminal (A) of your not start, call your dealer or
battery terminal or a remote Volt. Do not let the other end of Roadside Assistance. See
positive (+) terminal if available. the cable touch metal. Roadside Assistance Program
Negative (−) jumper cable goes on page 13‑6.
to negative (−) battery terminal 2. Connect the other end of the red
or a remote negative (−) terminal positive (+) jumper cable to the Disconnecting the Jumper Cables
if available. Do not connect positive (+) terminal of the other 1. Disconnect the black
positive (+) to negative (−) or vehicle. negative (−) jumper cable
there will be a short that may 3. Connect the black negative (−) from the Volt. Do not let the
damage the battery and other jumper cable to the negative (−) other end of the cable touch
parts of the vehicle. battery terminal of the other anything until after the next step.
Notice: If the jumper cables are vehicle battery. Do not let the 2. Disconnect the black
connected or removed in the other end touch anything until negative (−) jumper cable from
wrong order, electrical shorting the next step. the other vehicle with the good
may occur and damage the 4. Connect the other end of the battery.
vehicle. The repairs would not be black negative (−) jumper cable 3. Disconnect the red positive (+)
covered by the vehicle warranty. to the remote negative (−) jumper cable from the other
Always connect and remove the terminal of your Volt. vehicle. Do not let the other end
jumper cables in the correct of the cable touch anything until
order, making sure that the 5. Push the POWER O button to
after the next step.
cables do not touch each other or start. This will wake up the
other metal. electronics on the Volt. After the 4. Disconnect the red positive (+)
instrument cluster initializes, the jumper cable from the Volt.
Volt will use power from the high
voltage battery to charge the
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (71,1)
5. Return the positive (+) and 2. Park both vehicles close enough 3. Turn off both vehicles. Turn
negative (−) terminal covers to so that the jumper cables can off the radio, all lamps, and
their original positions. reach both vehicles' positive (+) accessories that are not needed
and negative (−) terminals. in both vehicles. Unplug
Jump Starting Another Vehicle The vehicles must not touch accessories from the cigarette
When using the Volt to jump start each other. It could cause an lighter or the accessory power
another vehicle with a run‐down unwanted ground connection outlets. This avoids sparks and
battery, jumper cables are that could damage both vehicles' helps save both batteries and
connected directly to the positive (+) electrical systems. accessories.
and negative (−) terminals on the Put both vehicles in P (Park) for 4. Locate the positive (+) and
12‐volt battery in the rear cargo an automatic transmission or negative (−) terminals on the
area. Do not use the remote electric drive unit. For a manual vehicle with the run‐down
terminals under the hood. This transmission, place the vehicle battery.
could cause a fuse to overload in in Neutral and set the parking
the Volt. brake.
1. Check the other vehicle. It must Notice: If any accessories are left
have a 12‐volt battery with a on or plugged in during the jump
negative ground system. starting procedure, they could
Notice: Only use a vehicle that be damaged. The repairs would
has a 12-volt system with a not be covered by the vehicle
negative ground for jump warranty. Whenever possible,
starting. If the other vehicle does turn off or unplug all accessories
not have a 12-volt system with a on either vehicle when jump
negative ground, both vehicles starting the vehicle.
can be damaged.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (72,1)
4. Place a 1.2 m (4 ft) X 102 mm 5. Ramps (B) are required for the
(4 in) X 102 mm (4 in) wood front fascia (C) to clear the
beam (D) under the front cradle flatbed (A). The ramp height
crossmember (C), and on top of should be approximately 102 mm
both tow chains (E) to ensure (4 in). Lower the flatbed onto the
the tow chains do not come into set of ramps.
contact with the front fascia (A). Notice: If ramps are not used, the
Try to minimize the contact of front fascia will come into contact
the chains with the flexible with the flatbed and may cause
air dam (B). damage. Always use ramps.
3. Place the tow chain hooks (B)
into one of the torque box 6. After the front tires are on the
openings (A) behind the front flatbed adjust the flatbed upward
wheels. to provide additional clearance
between the air dam, fascia, and
flatbed.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (75,1)
If the vehicle is parked off the Notice: When using tow straps to
shoulder of the road, at an angle move the vehicle, damage may
that it cannot be pulled onto a occur if the tow straps contact
flatbed, a hook/chain can be placed the rear fascia. Do not let the tow
into either of the front torque box straps contact the rear fascia.
openings to pull the vehicle onto a If you cannot access the front
8. Secure the vehicle to the flat surface. Make sure that the torque box openings, wrap a tow
flatbed (B) using nonabrasive chains do not come in contact with strap through one, or both of the
straps (A) through all four wheel the rocker panel (A) or the front rear trailing arms (A) between the
openings and secure the straps fascia (B). bushing and torque tube, and pull
to the flatbed (B). the vehicle onto a flat surface. Do
not wrap the tow strap around the
rear torque tube (B).
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (76,1)
Dolly Towing from the Front 2. Drive the front wheels onto the Dolly Towing from the Rear
dolly.
3. Put the shift lever in P (Park).
4. Set the parking brake and
remove the key.
5. Clamp the steering wheel in a
straight-ahead position with a
clamping device designed for
towing.
6. Secure the vehicle to the dolly.
7. Release the parking brake.
8. Check for adequate rear fascia
The vehicle can be towed from the to ground clearance. Notice: Towing the vehicle from
front using a dolly. To tow the the rear, with the front wheels on
vehicle using a dolly, follow these the ground, could damage the
steps: drive unit, and front fascia. Do
not tow the vehicle from the rear
1. Attach the dolly to the tow with the front wheels on the
vehicle following the dolly ground.
manufacturer's instructions.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (78,1)
Appearance Care Notice: Avoid using high tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals
pressure washes closer than from industrial chimneys, etc., can
30 cm (12 in) to the surface of the damage the vehicle's finish if they
Exterior Care vehicle. Use of power washers remain on painted surfaces. Wash
Washing the Vehicle exceeding 8,274 kPa (1,200 psi) the vehicle as soon as possible.
can result in damage or removal If necessary, use non-abrasive
To preserve the vehicle's finish, of paint and decals. cleaners that are marked safe for
wash it often and out of direct painted surfaces to remove foreign
sunlight. Rinse the vehicle well, before
washing and after, to remove all matter.
Notice: Do not use petroleum cleaning agents completely. If they Occasional hand waxing or mild
based, acidic, or abrasive are allowed to dry on the surface, polishing should be done to remove
cleaning agents as they can they could stain. residue from the paint finish. See
damage the vehicle's paint, your dealer for approved cleaning
metal, or plastic parts. If damage Dry the finish with a soft, clean
chamois or an all-cotton towel to products.
occurs, it would not be covered
by the vehicle's warranty. avoid surface scratches and water Notice: Machine compounding
Approved cleaning products spotting. or aggressive polishing on a
can be obtained from your basecoat/clearcoat paint finish
Finish Care may damage it. Use only
dealer. Follow all manufacturer
directions regarding correct Application of aftermarket clearcoat non-abrasive waxes and polishes
product usage, necessary safety sealant/wax materials is not that are made for a basecoat/
precautions, and appropriate recommended. If painted surfaces clearcoat paint finish on the
disposal of any vehicle care are damaged, see your dealer to vehicle.
product. have the damage assessed and To keep the paint finish looking new,
repaired. Foreign materials such keep the vehicle garaged or
as calcium chloride and other salts, covered whenever possible.
ice melting agents, road oil and tar,
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (79,1)
Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Front Air Deflector Cleaning Exterior Lamps/
Parts Lenses and Emblems
Regularly clean bright metal parts Use only lukewarm or cold water, a
with water or chrome polish on soft cloth, and a car washing soap
chrome or stainless steel trim, to clean exterior lamps and lenses.
if necessary. Follow instructions under "Washing
For aluminum, never use auto the Vehicle" later in this section.
or chrome polish, steam, or Windshield and Wiper Blades
caustic soap to clean. A coating
of wax, rubbed to high polish, is Clean the outside of the windshield
recommended for all bright metal with glass cleaner.
parts. Clean rubber blades using lint-free
cloth or paper towel soaked with
A. Outer Air Deflector windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield
B. Inner Air Deflector thoroughly when cleaning the
C. Tab blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and
a buildup of vehicle wash/wax
D. Slot treatments may cause wiper
The front air deflector allows air to streaking.
flow cleaner under the vehicle. Replace the wiper blades if they
Should the front air deflector are worn or damaged. Damage
become detached, insert Tab C into can be caused by extreme dusty
Slot D. Repeat for the other side. conditions, sand, salt, heat, sun,
snow and ice.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (80,1)
Weatherstrips Keep the wheels clean using a soft, automatic car wash that uses
clean cloth with mild soap and silicone carbide tire cleaning
Apply silicone grease on
water. Rinse with clean water. After brushes. Damage could occur
weatherstrips to make them last
rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft, and the repairs would not be
longer, seal better, and not stick or
clean towel. A wax may then be covered by the vehicle warranty.
squeak. See Recommended Fluids
applied.
and Lubricants on page 11‑12 Steering, Suspension, and
Notice: Chrome wheels and other Chassis Components
Tires chrome trim may be damaged if
Use a stiff brush with tire cleaner to the vehicle is not washed after Visually inspect front and rear
clean the tires. driving on roads that have been suspension and steering system for
sprayed with magnesium, damaged, loose, or missing parts
Notice: Using petroleum-based calcium, or sodium chloride. or signs of wear. Inspect power
tire dressing products on the These chlorides are used on steering lines and hoses for proper
vehicle may damage the paint roads for conditions such as ice hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks,
finish and/or tires. When applying and dust. Always wash the chafing, etc. Visually check constant
a tire dressing, always wipe off chrome with soap and water after velocity joints, rubber boots, and
any overspray from all painted exposure. axle seals for leaks.
surfaces on the vehicle.
Notice: To avoid surface damage, Body Component Lubrication
Wheels and Trim — Aluminum do not use strong soaps, Lubricate all key lock cylinders,
or Chrome chemicals, abrasive polishes, hood hinges, liftgate hinges, and the
Use a soft, clean cloth with mild cleaners, brushes, or cleaners steel fuel door hinge unless the
soap and water to clean the wheels. that contain acid on aluminum or components are plastic. Applying
After rinsing thoroughly with clean chrome-plated wheels. Use only silicone grease on weatherstrips
water, dry with a soft, clean towel. approved cleaners. Also, never with a clean cloth will make them
A wax may then be applied. drive a vehicle with aluminum or last longer, seal better, and not stick
chrome-plated wheels through an or squeak.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (81,1)
Underbody Maintenance corrosion. Larger areas of finish hand lotions, sunscreen, and insect
damage can be corrected in your repellant from all interior surfaces or
Use plain water to flush dirt and
dealer's body and paint shop. permanent damage may result.
debris from the vehicle's underbody.
Your dealer or an underbody car Chemical Paint Spotting Your dealer may have products for
washing system can do this. If not cleaning the interior. Use cleaners
removed, rust and corrosion can Airborne pollutants can fall upon specifically designed for the
develop. and attack painted vehicle surfaces surfaces being cleaned to prevent
causing blotchy, ring-shaped permanent damage. To prevent
Sheet Metal Damage discolorations, and small, irregular overspray, apply all cleaners directly
dark spots etched into the paint to the cleaning cloth. Cleaners
If the vehicle is damaged and
surface. should be removed quickly. Never
requires sheet metal repair or
replacement, make sure the body allow cleaners to remain on the
repair shop applies anti-corrosion Interior Care surface being cleaned for extended
material to parts repaired or To prevent dirt particle abrasions, periods of time.
replaced to restore corrosion regularly clean the vehicle's interior. Cleaners may contain solvents that
protection. Immediately remove any soils. Note can become concentrated in the
Original manufacturer replacement that newspapers or dark garments interior. Before using cleaners, read
parts will provide the corrosion that can transfer color to home and adhere to all safety instructions
protection while maintaining the furnishings can also permanently on the label. While cleaning the
vehicle warranty. transfer color to the vehicle's interior, maintain adequate
interior. ventilation by opening the doors and
Finish Damage Use a soft bristle brush to remove windows.
Quickly repair minor chips and dust from knobs and crevices on the
scratches with touch-up materials instrument cluster. Using a mild
available from your dealer to avoid soap solution, immediately remove
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (82,1)
4. Continue gently rubbing the thorough cleaning, use a soft Notice: Use of air fresheners may
soiled area until there is no microfiber cloth dampened with a cause permanent damage to
longer any color transfer from mild soap solution. plastics and painted surfaces.
the soil to the cleaning cloth. Notice: Soaking or saturating If an air freshener comes in
5. If the soil is not completely leather, especially perforated contact with any plastic or
removed, use a mild soap leather, as well as other interior painted surface in the vehicle,
solution followed only by club surfaces, may cause permanent blot immediately and clean with a
soda or plain water. damage. Wipe excess moisture soft cloth dampened with a mild
from these surfaces after soap solution. Damage caused by
If the soil is not completely air fresheners would not be
removed, it may be necessary cleaning and allow them to dry
naturally. Never use heat, steam, covered by the vehicle warranty.
to use a commercial upholstery
cleaner or spot lifter. Test a small spot lifters or spot removers. Do
not use cleaners that contain Cleaning the Center
hidden area for colorfastness before
using a commercial upholstery silicone or wax-based products. Stack
cleaner or spot lifter. If ring Cleaners containing these
solvents can permanently change Cleaning the Display
formation occurs, clean the entire
fabric or carpet. the appearance and feel of leather Notice: Using abrasive cleaners
or soft trim and are not when cleaning glass surfaces
Following the cleaning process, a recommended. could scratch the glass. Use only
paper towel can be used to blot a soft cloth and do not spray
excess moisture. Do not use cleaners that increase
gloss, especially on the instrument cleaner directly on the system as
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and panel. Reflected glare can decrease it could affect the mechanical
Other Plastic Surfaces visibility through the windshield parts.
under certain conditions. Do not apply spray cleaner directly
Use a soft microfiber cloth
dampened with water to remove to the system, the cleaner could
dust and loose dirt. For a more affect the mechanical parts.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (84,1)
Do not wipe the panel with a hard Use the following guidelines for Removing and Replacing the
cloth or use a volatile liquid such as proper floor mat usage: Floor Mats
paint thinner, it could scratch the . The original equipment floor
surface or erase the characters on Pull up on the rear of the floor mat
mats were designed for your to unlock each retainer and remove.
the buttons. vehicle. If the floor mats need
replacing, it is recommended
Floor Mats that GM certified floor mats be
purchased. Non-GM floor mats
{ WARNING may not fit properly and may
interfere with the accelerator or
If a floor mat is the wrong size brake pedal. Always check that
or is not properly installed, it the floor mats do not interfere
can interfere with the pedals. with the pedals.
Interference with the pedals can . Use the floor mat with the
cause unintended acceleration correct side up. Do not turn
and/or increased stopping it over.
distance which can cause a crash
and injury. Make sure the floor
. Do not place anything on top of
the driver side floor mat. Reinstall by lining up the floor mat
mat does not interfere with the
retainer openings over the carpet
pedals. . Use only a single floor mat on
retainers and snap into position.
the driver side.
Make sure the floor mat is properly
. Do not place one floor mat on
secured in place.
top of another.
Verify the floor mat does not
interfere with the pedals.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
Usage Fluid/Lubricant
Multi-Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241, in
Hood and Hatch Hinges
Canada 10953474).
Weatherstrip Lubricant (GM Part No. 3634770, in Canada 10953518) or
Weatherstrip Conditioning
Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579, in Canada 992887).
Maintenance Records
After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading, who performed the service, and the
type of services performed in the boxes provided. Retain all maintenance receipts.
Odometer
Date Serviced By Services Performed
Reading
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
Odometer
Date Serviced By Services Performed
Reading
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
Odometer
Date Serviced By Services Performed
Reading
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
Vehicle Data
Capacities and Specifications
The following approximate capacities are given in metric and English conversions. Refer to Recommended Fluids
and Lubricants on page 11‑12 for more information.
Capacities
Application
Metric English
For the air conditioning system refrigerant charge
Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a amount, see the refrigerant label under the hood.
See your dealer for more information.
Cooling Systems
Engine 7.3 L 7.7 qt
High Voltage Battery 6.2 L 6.6 qt
Power Electronics 2.8 L 3.0 qt
Engine Oil with Filter 3.5 L 3.7 qt
Fuel Tank 35.2 L 9.3 gal
Electric Drive Unit 8.45 L 8.93 qt
Wheel Nut Torque 140 Y 100 lb ft
All capacities are approximate. When adding, be sure to fill to the approximate level, as recommended in this
manual.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
Engine Specifications
Engine VIN Code Electric Drive Unit Spark Plug Gap
1.4L L4 4 Automatic 0.7 mm (0.027 in)
2 NOTES
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
STEP TWO: If after contacting a When contacting Chevrolet, 40 days. If you do not agree with the
member of dealership management, remember that your concern will decision given in your case, you
it appears your concern cannot be likely be resolved at a dealer's may reject it and proceed with any
resolved by your dealership without facility. That is why we suggest other venue for relief available
further help, in the U.S., call the following Step One first. to you.
Chevrolet Customer Assistance STEP THREE — U.S. Owners: You may contact the BBB Auto
Center at 1-877‐486‐5846 Both General Motors and your Line Program using the toll-free
(1‐877‐4‐Volt Info). In Canada, dealer are committed to making telephone number or write them at
call General Motors of Canada sure you are completely satisfied the following address:
Customer Care Centre at with the new vehicle. However,
1-800-263-3777 (English), BBB Auto Line Program
if you continue to remain unsatisfied Council of Better Business
or 1-800-263-7854 (French). after following the procedure Bureaus, Inc.
We encourage you to call the outlined in Steps One and Two, you 4200 Wilson Boulevard
toll-free number in order to give the can file with the Better Business Suite 800
inquiry prompt attention. Have the Bureau (BBB) Auto Line® Program Arlington, VA 22203-1838
following information available to to enforce your rights.
give the Customer Assistance Telephone: 1-800-955-5100
The BBB Auto Line Program is an www.dr.bbb.org/goauto
representative: out-of-court program administered
. Vehicle Identification Number by the Council of Better Business This program is available in all
(VIN). This is available from the Bureaus to settle automotive 50 states and the District of
vehicle registration or title, or disputes regarding vehicle repairs or Columbia. Eligibility is limited by
the plate at the top left of the the interpretation of the New Vehicle vehicle age, mileage, and other
instrument panel and visible Limited Warranty. Although you may factors. General Motors reserves
through the windshield. be required to resort to this informal the right to change eligibility
dispute resolution program prior limitations and/or discontinue its
. Dealership name and location. participation in this program.
to filing a court action, use of the
. Vehicle delivery date and program is free of charge and your
present mileage. case will generally be heard within
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
Collision Damage Repair vehicles that were total losses in Repair Facility
prior crashes. In most cases, the
If the vehicle is involved in a GM also recommends that you
parts being recycled are from
collision and it is damaged, have choose a collision repair facility that
undamaged sections of the vehicle.
the damage repaired by a qualified meets your needs before you ever
A recycled original equipment GM
technician using the proper need collision repairs. Your dealer
part may be an acceptable choice
equipment and quality replacement may have a collision repair center
to maintain the vehicle's originally
parts. Poorly performed collision with GM-trained technicians and
designed appearance and safety
repairs diminish the vehicle resale state‐of‐the‐art equipment, or be
performance; however, the history of
value, and safety performance can able to recommend a collision repair
these parts is not known. Such parts
be compromised in subsequent center that has GM-trained
are not covered by the GM New
collisions. technicians and comparable
Vehicle Limited Warranty, and any
equipment.
Collision Parts related failures are not covered by
that warranty. Insuring the Vehicle
Genuine GM Collision parts are new
parts made with the same materials Aftermarket collision parts are also Protect your investment in the GM
and construction methods as the available. These are made by vehicle with comprehensive and
parts with which the vehicle was companies other than GM and may collision insurance coverage. There
originally built. Genuine GM not have been tested for the vehicle. are significant differences in the
Collision parts are the best choice to As a result, these parts may fit quality of coverage afforded by
ensure that the vehicle's designed poorly, exhibit premature durability/ various insurance policy terms.
appearance, durability, and safety corrosion problems, and may not Many insurance policies provide
are preserved. The use of Genuine perform properly in subsequent reduced protection to the GM
GM parts can help maintain the GM collisions. Aftermarket parts are not vehicle by limiting compensation
New Vehicle Limited Warranty. covered by the GM New Vehicle for damage repairs by using
Limited Warranty, and any vehicle aftermarket collision parts. Some
Recycled original equipment parts failure related to such parts is not insurance companies will not
may also be used for repair. These covered by that warranty. specify aftermarket collision parts.
parts are typically removed from When purchasing insurance, we
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (11,1)
recommend that you ensure that the Give only the necessary information Choose a reputable repair facility
vehicle will be repaired with GM to police and other parties involved that uses quality replacement parts.
original equipment collision parts. in the crash. See “Collision Parts” earlier in this
If such insurance coverage is For emergency towing see section.
not available from your current Roadside Assistance Program on In a crash, the sensing system may
insurance carrier, consider switching page 13‑6. shut down the high voltage system.
to another insurance carrier. See Battery on page 10‑23 for
Gather the following information:
If the vehicle is leased, the leasing important safety information. If an
company may require you to have . Driver name, address, and airbag has inflated, see What Will
insurance that ensures repairs with telephone number. You See after an Airbag Inflates? on
Genuine GM Original Equipment . Driver license number. page 3‑24.
Manufacturer (OEM) parts or
Genuine Manufacturer replacement
. Owner name, address, and Managing the Vehicle Damage
parts. Read the lease carefully, as telephone number. Repair Process
you may be charged at the end of . Vehicle license plate number. In the event that the vehicle requires
the lease for poor quality repairs. damage repairs, GM recommends
. Vehicle make, model, and
If a Crash Occurs model year. that you take an active role in its
repair. If you have a pre-determined
. Vehicle Identification
If there has been an injury, call repair facility of choice, take the
emergency services for help. Do not Number (VIN). vehicle there, or have it towed
leave the scene of a crash until all . Insurance company and policy there. Specify to the facility that any
matters have been taken care of. number. required replacement collision parts
Move the vehicle only if its position be original equipment parts, either
puts you in danger, or you are
. General description of the new Genuine GM parts or recycled
instructed to move it by a police damage to the other vehicle. original GM parts. Remember,
officer. recycled parts will not be covered by
the GM vehicle warranty.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (12,1)
Insurance pays the bill for the repair, Service Publications Owner Information
but you must live with the repair.
Depending on your policy limits,
Ordering Information Owner publications are written
specifically for owners and intended
your insurance company may Service Manuals to provide basic operational
initially value the repair using
Service Manuals have the diagnosis information about the vehicle.
aftermarket parts. Discuss this with
and repair information on the The Owner Manual includes the
the repair professional, and insist on
engines, electric drive unit, axle, Maintenance Schedule for all
Genuine GM parts. Remember,
suspension, brakes, electrical, models.
if the vehicle is leased, you may be
obligated to have the vehicle steering, body, etc. In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio,
repaired with Genuine GM parts, Service Bulletins Owner Manual, and Warranty
even if your insurance coverage Booklet.
does not pay the full cost. Service Bulletins give additional
technical service information RETAIL SELL PRICE:
If another party's insurance needed to knowledgeably service $35.00 (U.S.) plus handling and
company is paying for the repairs, General Motors cars and trucks. shipping fees.
you are not obligated to accept a Each bulletin contains instructions Without Portfolio: Owner
repair valuation based on that to assist in the diagnosis and Manual only.
insurance company's collision service of the vehicle.
policy repair limits, as you have no RETAIL SELL PRICE:
contractual limits with that company. $25.00 (U.S.) plus handling and
In such cases, you can have control shipping fees.
of the repair and parts choices as
long as the cost stays within
reasonable limits.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (13,1)
To contact NHTSA, you may Reporting Safety Defects Reporting Safety Defects
call the Vehicle Safety Hotline to the Canadian to General Motors
toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go
Government In addition to notifying NHTSA (or
to http://www.safercar.gov; or If you live in Canada, and you Transport Canada) in a situation like
believe that the vehicle has a safety this, notify General Motors.
write to:
defect, notify Transport Canada Call 1-800-222-1020, or write:
Administrator, NHTSA immediately, and notify General
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E. Chevrolet Motor Division
Motors of Canada Limited.
Washington, D.C. 20590 Chevrolet Customer Assistance
Call Transport Canada at
Center
1-800-333-0510 or write to:
You can also obtain other P.O. Box 33170
information about motor Transport Canada Detroit, MI 48232-5170
vehicle safety from Road Safety Branch
In Canada, call 1-800-263-3777
http://www.safercar.gov. 80 rue Noel
(English) or 1-800-263-7854
Gatineau, QC J8Z 0A1
(French), or write:
General Motors of Canada Limited
Customer Care Centre,
Mail Code: CA1-163-005
1908 Colonel Sam Drive
Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (15,1)
Vehicle Data Event Data Recorders This data can help provide a better
understanding of the circumstances
Recording and This vehicle has an Event Data in which crashes and injuries occur.
Recorder (EDR). The main purpose
Privacy of an EDR is to record, in certain Important: EDR data is recorded
crash or near crash-like situations, by the vehicle only if a non-trivial
This GM vehicle has a number of crash situation occurs; no data is
sophisticated computers that record such as an airbag deployment or
hitting a road obstacle, data that recorded by the EDR under normal
information about the vehicle’s driving conditions and no personal
performance and how it is driven. will assist in understanding how a
vehicle's systems performed. The data (e.g., name, gender, age,
For example, the vehicle uses and crash location) is recorded.
computer modules to monitor and EDR is designed to record data
related to vehicle dynamics and However, other parties, such
control engine and electric drive as law enforcement, could combine
unit performance, to monitor the safety systems for a short period of
time, typically 30 seconds or less. the EDR data with the type of
conditions for airbag deployment personally identifying data
and to deploy airbags in a crash, The EDR in this vehicle is designed
to record such data as: routinely acquired during a crash
and to provide antilock braking to investigation.
help the driver control the vehicle. . How various systems in the
These modules may store data to vehicle were operating. To read data recorded by an EDR,
help your dealer technician service special equipment is required, and
the vehicle. Some modules may
. Whether or not the driver and access to the vehicle or the EDR is
also store data about how you passenger safety belts were needed. In addition to the vehicle
operate the vehicle, such as rate of buckled/fastened. manufacturer, other parties, such
fuel consumption or average speed. . How far, if at all, the driver was as law enforcement, that have the
These modules may also retain the pressing the accelerator and/or special equipment, can read the
owner’s personal preferences, such brake pedal. information if they have access to
as radio pre-sets, seat positions, the vehicle or the EDR.
. How fast the vehicle was
and temperature settings. traveling.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (16,1)
GM will not access this data or speaking to an advisor. See OnStar personal information or link with
share it with others except: with the Overview on page 14‑1 for more any other GM system containing
consent of the vehicle owner or, information. personal information.
if the vehicle is leased, with the
consent of the lessee; in response Navigation System Radio Frequency
to an official request by police or
similar government office; as part of If the vehicle has a navigation Statement
GM's defense of litigation through system, use of the system may This vehicle has systems that
the discovery process; or, as result in the storage of destinations, operate on a radio frequency that
required by law. Data that GM addresses, telephone numbers, and comply with Part 15 of the Federal
collects or receives may also be other trip information. Refer to the Communications Commission (FCC)
used for GM research needs or may navigation manual for information rules and with Industry Canada
be made available to others for on stored data and for deletion Standards RSS‐GEN/210/220/310.
research purposes, where a need is instructions.
Operation is subject to the following
shown and the data is not tied to a two conditions:
specific vehicle or vehicle owner. Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) 1. The device may not cause
OnStar® RFID technology is used in some
harmful interference.
If the vehicle is equipped with an vehicles for functions such as tire 2. The device must accept any
active OnStar system, that system pressure monitoring and ignition interference received, including
may also record data in crash or system security, as well as in interference that may cause
near crash‐like situations. The connection with conveniences undesired operation of the
OnStar Terms and Conditions such as key fobs for remote door device.
provides information on data locking/unlocking and starting, and Changes or modifications to any of
collection and use and is available in-vehicle transmitters for garage these systems by other than an
at www.onstar.com (U.S.) or door openers. RFID technology in authorized service facility could void
www.onstar.ca (Canada), or by GM vehicles does not use or record authorization to use this equipment.
pressing the Q button and
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (1,1)
OnStar 14-1
14-2 OnStar
. Receive On-Demand
Diagnostics for a check on the OnStar Services Navigation
vehicle’s key operating systems. OnStar navigation requires the
. Receive Roadside Assistance.
Emergency Directions and Connections
With Automatic Crash Response, service plan.
Push ] to get a priority connection the built-in system can automatically Push Q to receive directions or
to an Emergency Advisor available connect to help in a crash even if have them sent to the vehicle
24/7 to: you cannot ask for it. navigation screen. Destinations
. Get help for an emergency. can also be forwarded to the
Push ] to connect to an
. Be a Good Samaritan or Emergency Advisor. GPS vehicle from Google Maps™ or
respond to an AMBER Alert. technology is used to identify the MapQuest.com. The OnStar
vehicle location and can provide mapping database is continuously
. Get crisis assistance and updated. Visit www.onstar.com for
evacuation routes. critical information to emergency
personnel. The Advisor is also coverage maps.
trained to offer critical assistance in Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation
emergency situations.
1. Push Q to connect to a live
Security Advisor.
OnStar provides services like Stolen 2. Request directions.
Vehicle Assistance, Remote Ignition 3. Directions are downloaded to the
Block, and Roadside Assistance, vehicle.
if the vehicle is equipped with these
services. OnStar can unlock the 4. Follow the voice-guided
vehicle doors remotely, if it is commands.
equipped with automatic door locks,
and can help police locate the
vehicle if it is stolen.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (3,1)
OnStar 14-3
14-4 OnStar
OnStar 14-5
It can connect to an OnStar Advisor OnStar Additional How OnStar Service Works
anytime. For OnStar mobile app
Information Automatic Crash Response,
compatibility or further information,
Emergency Services, Crisis Assist,
see www.onstar.com.
Transferring Service Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Vehicle
Diagnostics, Remote Door Unlock,
Diagnostics Push Q to request account transfer Roadside Assistance, Turn-by-Turn
OnStar Vehicle Diagnostics will eligibility information. The Advisor Navigation, and Hands-Free Calling
perform a vehicle check every can assist in canceling or removing are available on most vehicles. Not
month. It will check the engine, account information. If OnStar all OnStar services are available
transmission, antilock brakes, and receives information that vehicle everywhere or on all vehicles. For
major vehicle systems. It also ownership has changed, OnStar more information, a full description
checks the tire pressures, if the may send a voice message to the of OnStar services, system
vehicle is equipped with the Tire vehicle, requesting updated account limitations, and OnStar terms and
Pressure Monitoring System. If a information. conditions, see www.onstar.com
diagnostics check is needed (U.S.) or www.onstar.ca (Canada);
Reactivation for Subsequent contact OnStar at 1-888-4-ONSTAR
between e-mails, push Q, and an Owners
Advisor can run a check. (1‐888‐466‐7827) or TTY
Push Q and follow the prompts to 1‐877‐248‐2080; or push Q to
speak to an Advisor as soon as speak with an Advisor. OnStar
possible after acquiring the vehicle. services require a vehicle electrical
The Advisor will update vehicle system, wireless service, and GPS
records and will explain the OnStar satellite technologies to be available
service offers and options available. and operating for features to
function properly. These systems
may not operate if the battery is
discharged or disconnected.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (6,1)
14-6 OnStar
OnStar service cannot work unless See Radio Frequency Statement on TTY Users
your vehicle is in a place where page 13‑16 for information
OnStar has the ability to
OnStar has an agreement with a regarding Part 15 of the Federal
communicate to the deaf,
wireless service provider for service Communications Commission (FCC)
hard‐of‐hearing, or speech‐impaired
in that area, and the wireless rules and Industry Canada
customers while in the vehicle. The
service provider has coverage, Standards RSS-GEN/210/220/310.
available dealer‐installed TTY
network capacity, reception, and
Services for People with system can provide in-vehicle
technology compatible with OnStar’s
Disabilities access to all of the OnStar services,
service. Service involving location
except Virtual Advisor and OnStar
information about the vehicle cannot Advisors provide services to help Turn‐by‐Turn Navigation.
work unless GPS signals are subscribers with physical disabilities
available, unobstructed, and and medical conditions. Onstar.com
compatible with the OnStar
hardware. OnStar service may not Push Q for help with: The website provides access to
work if the OnStar equipment is not account information, manages the
. Locating a gas station with an OnStar subscription, and allows
properly installed or it has not been attendant to pump gas.
properly maintained. If equipment viewing of videos of each service.
or software is added, connected,
. Finding a hotel, restaurant, etc., Get subscription plan pricing and
or modified, OnStar service may that meets accessibility needs. sign up for OnStar Vehicle
not work. Other problems beyond Diagnostics. Click on the “My
. Providing directions to the Account” tab on the home page.
OnStar’s control may prevent closest hospital or pharmacy in
service such as hills, tall buildings, urgent situations.
tunnels, weather, electrical system
design and architecture of the
vehicle, damage to the vehicle in a
crash, or wireless phone network
congestion or jamming.
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (7,1)
OnStar 14-7
14-8 OnStar
INDEX i-1
i-2 INDEX
INDEX i-3
i-4 INDEX
INDEX i-5
i-6 INDEX
INDEX i-7
i-8 INDEX
Mode Oil P
Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-21 Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-9
Park
Extended Range . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-22 Engine Oil Life System . . . . . 10-12
Shifting into . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-19
Modes Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-47
Shifting out of . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-20
Driver Selected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-22 Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-26
Parking
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-24 Older Children, Restraints . . . . . 3-32
Assist, Ultrasonic . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-38
Monitor System, Tire Online Owner Center . . . . . . . . . . 13-4
Brake and P (Park)
Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-47 OnStar®
Mechanism Check . . . . . . . . 10-25
Mountain Mode Light . . . . . . . . . . 5-23 Additional Information . . . . . . . .14-5
Over Things That Burn . . . . . . .9-21
MP3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-14 Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-4
Passenger Airbag Status
Multi-band Antenna . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-12 Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-5
Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-18
Emergency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Passenger Sensing System . . . 3-26
N Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Perchlorate Materials
Navigation Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-1
Requirements, California . . . . . 10-3
Vehicle Data Recording Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-2
Personalization
and Privacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16 OnStar® System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-53
Navigation, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . 14-2 Ordering
Phone
New Vehicle Break-In . . . . . . . . . . 9-16 Service Publications . . . . . . . . 13-12
Bluetooth . . . . . . . . . 7-20, 7-21, 7-25
Out of Fuel/Engine
Plug-In Charging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-44
Unavailable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-24
O Outlets
Power
Object Detection System Button . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-16
Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-49 Door Locks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
Overheating, Engine . . . . . . . . . . 10-19
Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-14 Flows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-29
Overview, Infotainment
Trip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-15 Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-16
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-2
Off-Road Outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-9
Overview, OnStar® . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-1
Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-6
Chevrolet Volt Owner Manual - 2012 Black plate (9,1)
INDEX i-9
i-10 INDEX
INDEX i-11
i-12 INDEX