2011 Chevrolet Volt Owner's Manual - Page 143

Instruments and Controls Light On Steady: An emission control system malfunction has been detected on the vehicle. Diagnosis and service might be required. The following may correct an emission system malfunction: . . 5-23 Check that good quality fuel is used. Poor fuel quality causes the engine not to run as efficiently as designed and may cause stalling after start-up or misfiring. These conditions might go away once the engine is warmed up. If one or more of these conditions occurs, change the fuel brand used. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs Some state and local governments have or might begin programs to inspect the emission control equipment on the vehicle. Failure to pass this inspection could prevent getting a vehicle registration. Here are some things to know to help the vehicle pass an inspection: . Check that the fuel cap is fully installed. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap allows fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off. Check that the electrical system is not wet. The system could be wet if the vehicle was driven through a deep puddle of water. The condition is usually corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off. . If none of the above have made the light turn off, your dealer can check the vehicle. The dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that might have developed. The vehicle will not pass this inspection if the malfunction indicator lamp is on while the vehicle is in ON/RUN, or if the vehicle is placed in Service Only Mode and the malfunction indicator lamp does not come on. See your dealer for assistance in verifying proper operation of the malfunction indicator lamp.