1996 Oldsmobile Achieva Owner's Manual - Page 326

Steering Column Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try turn to the key to LOCK in each shift lever position. With an automatic transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shiftlever is in PARK (P). With a manual transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in REVERSE (R). On vehicles with a release button, try to turn the key key to LOCK without pressingthe button. The key should turn to LOCK only when you press the key button. Park on a fairlysteep hill, with the vehiclefacing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. 0 To check the parking brake: With the engine running N, and transaxle in NEUTRAL ( ) slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal.Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only. To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then release all brakes. On all vehicles, the key should come out only in LOCK. Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Mechanism Check Underbody FlushingService At least every spring, use plain water to flush any corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris can collect. When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or otherscould be injured and property could damaged. Make be sure thereis room in frontof your vehicle in case it begins toroll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle begin move. to