1997 Oldsmobile Achieva Owner's Manual - Page 338

Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. With an automatic transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). With a manual transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift leveris in REVERSE (R). On vehicles with a key release button, try to turn the key to LOCK without pressing the button. The key should turn to LOCK only when you press the key button. On all vehicles, the key should come out only in LOCK. Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Mechanism Check Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. 0 To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and transaxle in NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parking brake only. 0 To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift toPARK (P). Then release all brakes. Underbody Flushing Service 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 others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure thereis room in front your vehicle in case of it begins toroll. Be ready to apply the regular brake atonce should the vehicle begin to move. 7-44