2001 Chevrolet Malibu Owner's Manual - Page 128

Check Oil Light You will have a CHECK OIL light in your instrument panel cluster. PasslockR Warning Light This light will come on briefly when you start your vehicle. If the light stays on after starting your vehicle, or comes on and chimes while you are driving, your engine oil level should be checked. Prior to checking the oil level, be sure your vehicle has been shut off for several minutes and is on a level surface. Check the oil level on your dipstick and bring it to the proper level. See "Engine Oil" in the Index. A false CHECK OIL light may be generated when parking on steep grades. The oil level monitoring system only checks oil level during the brief period between key on and engine crank. It does not monitor engine oil level when the engine is running. Additionally, an oil level check is only performed if the engine has been turned off for a considerable period of time allowing the oil normally in circulation to drain back into the oil pan. This light will come on when you turn the ignition to ON. The light will stay on until the engine starts. If the light flashes, the Passlock system has entered a tamper mode. If the vehicle fails to start, see "Passlock" in the Index. If the light comes on continuously while driving and stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock system. Your vehicle will not be protected by Passlock, and you should see your dealer. 2-63