997 . .
7 1-1 The 1997 Pontiac Grand Am Owner’s Manual Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. 2- 1 Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your Pontiac. 3-1 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.
We support voluntary technician certification. WUB PONTIAC GENERAL MOTORS,GM, the GM Emblem, PONTIAC, the PONTIAC Emblem and the name GRAND AM are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes thelatest information at thetime it was printed. We reserve the right to make changesin the product afterthat time withoutfurther notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motorsof Canada Limited” for Pontiac Division wheneverit appears ___ this manual.
How to Use this Manual Many peopleread their owner’s manual from beginning to end when theyfirst receive their new vehicle.If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. Inthis manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work togetherto explain things quickly. Index A good placeto look for what you needis the Index in the backof the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’s in the manual, andthe page number whereyou’ll find it.
Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something can that damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what do to to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warningsin different colors orin different words.
Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.
$@b NOTES vi
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Pontiac and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about somethings you should not do with air bags and safetybelts.
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Seats You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seatwhile the vehicle is moving. The suddenmovement could startle and confuse you, or makeyou push a pedal whenyou don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving. I 1-2 Move the control lever under the front of the seat to unlock it.
Manual Lumbar Support(If Equipped) Turn the knob on the right frontof the driver’s seat cushion clockwiseor counterclockwise to adjust support for the lower back. Power Seat Controls (If Equipped) To adjust the power seat onsome models: FRONT CONTROL (A): Raise the frontof the seat by holding the switch up. Lower the front of the seat by holding the switch down. CENTER CONTROL(B): Move the seat forward or or back. back by holding the control to the front Move the seat higher by holding the control up.
Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat and move the seatback to where you wantit. Release the lever to lock the seatback. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to an upright position. 1-4 But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
A CAUTION: Sitting ina reclined position when yourvehicle is in motion can be dangerous, Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do job its because it won’t be against yourbody. Instead, itwill be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap beltcan’t do itsjob either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen, The belt forces wouldbe there, not at your pelvic bones.
To fold a front seatback forward, lift the seatback latch. Easy Entry Seat (2-Door Models) When youreturn the seatback to itsoriginal position, the seatback will lock. The right front seat of your vehicle makes it easy to get in and out of the rear seat. Tilt the right front seatback completely forward and the whole seat will slide forward. If the seatbackisn’t locked, it could move forward ina sudden stopor crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there.
Rear Seats Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Folding the Rear Seat (If Equipped) This part of the manual tells you how to use safetybelts properly. It also tells yousome things you shouldnot do with safetybelts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or air bag system. A CAUTION: To open, pull forward on the seat tab. To close, push the seatback up toits original position.
It is extremely dangerous toride in a cargo area, inside or outsideof a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are morelikely to be seriously injured orkilled. Do not allow peopleto ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is ina seat andusing a safety belt properly. Your vehicle has a light that comes on asa reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.
Why Safety Belts Work When youride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. Put someone on it. Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels.
I Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. 1-10 The person keeps going until stopped by something. In areal vehicle, it could bethe windshield ...
or the instrumentpanel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as thevehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take theforces. That’s why safety beltsmake such good sense.
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts-- and the Answers &: A: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbucklea safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And yourchance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle andget out, is much greater if you are belted.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies.If a child will be ridingin your Pontiac, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know whichrestraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.
If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt.. Pull up onthe latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckleis positioned so you would beable to unbucklethe safety belt quickly if youever had to. 1-14 5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as youpull up on the shoulder belt.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (4-Door Models) Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. The lap part of the belt shouldbe worn low and snug on the hips,just touching the thighs.In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'dbe less likely to slide under the lap belt.If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.
Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder.The belt should be away from yourface and neck, but notfalling off your shoulder. What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as muchprotection this way. 1-16 You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose.In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt shouldfit against your body.
e." What's wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the beltwould go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause seriousinternal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. I A: I I I I I I I I The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
What’s wrong with this? You can be seriously injuredif you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move toofar forward, which would increase the chanceof head andneck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulderbones. You could also severelyinjure internal organs like your liver or spleen. A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
&.’ What’s wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously injuredby a twisted belt.In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the If a belt is twisted, belt to spread impact forces. make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it. A: The belt is twisted across the body.
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts workfor everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, theyare more likely to be seriously injuredif they don’t wear safety belts. To unlatch the belt,just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. is out of the Before you close the door, be sure the belt way. If you slam the dooron it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.
The best way toprotect the fetus is toprotect the mother, When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt ina crash. For pregnant women, asfor anyone, the key to making safety beltseffective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section.
CAUTION: Air bags inflate withgreat force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re tooclose to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keepyou in position beforeand duringa crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. The driver shouldsit as far back aspossible while still maintaining controlof the vehicle. ‘ A, CAUTION: An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properlyin your vehicle.
How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
I I A CAUTION: When shouldan air bag inflate? - - If something is between an occupant and an air or it bag, the bag might not inflate properly might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant andair an bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any otherair bag covering. An air bag is designed to inflatein a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash.
What makes an air bag inflate? What will you see after an air bag inflates? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and inthe instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.
In many crashes severe enough toinflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshieldbreakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. 0 0 Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some newparts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t bethere to help protect you inanother crash. A new system willinclude air bag modules and possibly otherparts.
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Pontiac Rear Seat Passengers Air bags affect how your Pontiac should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system inseveral places around your vehicle. You don’t wantthe system to inflate while someone is working on yourvehicle. Your Pontiac dealer and the Grand Am Service Manual have information aboutservicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Serviceand Owner Publications” in the Index.
.. ., 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t letit get twisted. If the belt stops beforeit reaches the buckle,tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to makesure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the endof this section.
3. To make the lap part tight, pull downon the buckle end of the belt as you pullup on the shoulderpart. The lappart of the belt should be worn low and snug on In a crash, this applies the hips, just touching the thighs. force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely If you slid under it, the belt to slide under the lap belt. would apply force at your abdomen.This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest.
The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. - !& CAUTION: -1 You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt shouldfit against your body. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and SmallAdults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints andfor small adults.When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There isone guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat.
2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, andinsert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 1-32 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges togetherso that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide andclip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed. Center Passenger Position 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section.
the belt is snug. When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull italong the belt. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ atthe end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Children Smaller Children and Babies Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. I A CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be restrained ina child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether itis the right type andsize for your child.
at only 25mph (40 kmlh), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby inan infant restraint. Never hold a baby in your armswhile riding ina vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it.
Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is designedto beused in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor VehicleSafety Standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also hasto besecured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury.
Top Strap If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you needto have an anchor installed, you can ask your Pontiac dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. Canadian law requires that child restraints have a top strap, and thatthe strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a top strap, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle.
Securing a Child Restraint ina Rear Outside Seat Position You’ll be usingthe lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt throughor around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
4. Buckle the belt. Makesure the release button is positioned so you would beable to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 5. To tighten the belt,pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the childrestraint. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position U You’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint.
6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. 5. Buckle the belt.
Securing a Child Restraintin the Right Front Seat Position You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See theearlier part about the top strap if the childrestraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air far back as it will go bag, always move the seat as before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” inthe Index.) 2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say.
Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint. 1-44 5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Larger Children 6. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push downon the childrestraint. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to besure it is secure. Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safetybelts. To remove thechild restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way.The safety belt will move freely again and be readyto work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they needto use the safety belts properly. Children who aren’t buckled upcan be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are. Never do this. Here two childrenare wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, thetwo children canbe crushed together and seriously injured.A belt must be used by only one personat a time. e.
Never do this. Here a child is sittingin a seat that hasa lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulderpart is behind the child. If the child wears thebelt in thisway, in a crash thechild might slideunder thebelt. The belt’s force would thenbe applied righton the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. of the belt Wherever the child sits, the lap portion should be worn low and snugon the hips,just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safetybelt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’sfree. When yougo in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just foryou, and just forthe seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it ismade to fit.
Section 2 FeaturesandControls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Pontiac, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
Keys A CAUTION: Leaving young childrenin a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children. .* 2-2 . :.>..* ..~,~... ~ .............................. ,. . . . ..: .:.. ........ ..o..*..*.L..L.......... .
One key is used for the ignition, the doors and all other locks. If you need a new key, go to yourPontiac dealer for the correct key code. Remember to carry the pre-cut emergency key whichPontiac sends after delivery.In an emergency, call the Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program at 1-800-ROADSIE or 1-800-762-3743 (in Canada, call 1-800-268-6800). I NOTICE: When a new Pontiac is delivered, the dealer removesthe tags from the keys, andgives them to the first owner.
Door Locks A CAUTION: . . '" ' . . *_ - - - Unlocked doors can be dangerous. . Passengers especially children can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won't open it. Outsiders caneasily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may notbe so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown outof the vehicle ina crash if the doors aren'tlocked.
Power Door Locks Automatic Door Locks With powerdoor locks, you can lockor unlock all the doors of your vehicle from the driver or front passenger door lock switch. On four-door models, slide the lock lever on each rear door to lock or unlock that door. Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. If you have an automatic transaxle, allof the doors will lock when you move your shift leverout of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Rear Door Security Lock Your Pontiac is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doorsof your vehicle from the inside. To use oneof these locks: 1. Use a keyto move the lock all the way up. 2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thingto the other rear door lock. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on: 1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2.
Keyless Entry System(If Equipped) If your Pontiac has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away usingthe remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. In addition, the system illuminates the interior lamps for a set period of time. The Keyless Entry System consists of a receiver, which is located in the vehicle, and two hand-held transmitters.
Operation Matching Transmitter(s)To Your Vehicle The following functions are available with the Keyless Entry System: Each keychain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle.If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when yougo to your dealer. When the dealer matches thereplacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched.
Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probablytime to change the battery. NOTICE: When replacing the battery, use care not to touch any of the circuitry. Static from your body transferred to these surfaces may damage the transmitter.
Synchronization Trunk Your Keyless Entry System is equipped with a security system that prevents anyone from recording and playing back your signal. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal that has been sent to it more than once. To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the key and turn the trunk lock cylinder. To resynchronize your transmitter and receiver, follow these directions: 1. Stand close to your vehicle. 2.
Remote Trunk Release Trunk Security Override The remote trunk release is equipped with an override feature to help prevent unauthorized entry into the trunk when leaving the vehicle unattended, The switch is located on the inside of the trunk lid, mounted to the trunk lid latch. The remote trunk release handle is located on the floor near the left side of the driver’s seat in front of the fuel door release. Pull up on the remote release handle to release the trunk lid.
Theft Parking at Night Vehicle theftis big business, especially in some cities. Although your Pontiac has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can makeit impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area,or take them with you.
Passlock TM Your vehicle isequipped with the Passlock theft-deterrent system. Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. The system is armed once thekey is removed from the ignition. Passlock enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a valid key. If a correct key is not used, fuel is disabled, During normal operation, the THEFT SYS light will go off after the engine is started.
Ignition Positions C A - i With the keyin the ignition switch, you can turn the switch tofive positions. 2-14 ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things like the radio and windshield wipers when the engine is off. To use ACCESSORY, push in the key and turnit toward you. Your steering wheel will stay locked. LOCK (B): Before you put the key into the ignition switch, the switch isin LOCK. It’s also the only position in which you can remove the key.
START (E): This position starts your engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to RUN for normal driving. Note that even if the engine is not running, the positions ACCESSORY andRUN are on positions that allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio. On manual transaxlevehicles, turning the key to LOCK will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer thevehicle.
Key Release Button (Manual Transaxle) Starting Your Engine Automatic Transaxle Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. I NOTICE: Don’t try to shift toPARK (P) if your Pontiac is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shiftto PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. The key cannot be removed from the ignition unless the key release button is used.
Starting Your 2.4 Liter Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition keyto START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. Theidle speed will go downas your engine gets warm. -. ~~ NOTICE: Holding yourkey in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained muchsooner. And theexcessive heat can damage your startermotor. 2.
Starting Your 3100 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts,let go of the key. The idle speed willgo down as your engine gets warm. NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your startermotor. 2. If your engine won’t start (or startsbut then stops), it could be flooded withtoo much gasoline.
Engine Coolant Heater(If Equipped) 3100 Engine 2.4L Engine In very cold weather,0 O F (- 18 C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours priorto starting your vehicle.
To Use the Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-voltAC outlet. A CAUTION: Plugging the cord intoan ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriouslyinjured. Plug the cord intoa properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cordwon’t reach, usea heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
Automatic Transaxle Operation Your Pontiac may beequipped with a four-speed automatic transaxle. The shift lever is located on the console between the seats. N There are seven different positions for the shift lever on the four-speed automatic transaxle. [Dl 3 PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily.
Ensure the shift leveris fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock.You have to fully apply your regular brakes before youcan shift fromPARK (P) when the ignition keyis in the RUN position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever-- push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) -- as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish.
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving with the four-speed automatic transaxle. driving, however,it offers more power and lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). Here If you need more power for passing, and you’re: are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of 0 Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): accelerator pedal about halfway down.
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. NOTICE: Don’t drive in SECOND(2) for more than 25 miles (41 km), or at speeds over55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@)or THIRD (3) as much as possible.
Manual Transaxle Operation Here’s howto operate your transaxle: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete stop and it’s hardto shift into FIRST (l),put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N) andlet up on the clutch. Press the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1).
REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch pedal slowly while pressing the accelerator pedal. NOTICE: Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped. Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving could damage your transaxle. Also, use REVERSE (R), along with the parking brake, for parking your vehicle. 2-26 Shift Speeds A CAUTION: - If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle.
Up Shift Light If you have a manual transaxle, you have a SHIFT light. This light will show you when toshift to the next higher gear for best fuel economy. SHIFT While you accelerate, it is normal for the light to go on and off if you quickly change the position of the accelerator. Ignore the SHIFT light when you downshift. IOTICE: If you skip more than one gear when you downshift, or if you race the engine when you downshift, you can damage the clutch or transaxle.
Parking Brake To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can press the release button. Hold the release button in as you move the brake lever all the way down. I NOTICE: Driving with the parking brakeon can cause your rear brakesto overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.
A CAUTION: - It can be dangerous toget out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehicle can roll. If you have leftthe engine running, thevehicle can move suddenly.You or otherscould be injured. To be sure yourvehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairlylevel ground, use the steps that follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. 2. Move the shift lever into thePARK (P) position like this: 0 1.
Torque Lock (Automatic Transaxle) Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Models Only) A CAUTION: I I It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift leveris not fullyin PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire.You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.
Shifting Out ofPARK (P) (Automatic TransaxleModels Only) 3. Insert the ignition key into this opening until it contacts with a small paddle.This is the override feature. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock.You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignitionis in the RUN position. See “Automatic Transaxle Operation”in the Index. 4. While pushing forward on the paddle, press the shift lever button, then pullthe shift lever fromPARK (P).
Parking Over Things That Burn Things that can burn could touch hotexhaust parts under yourvehicle and ignite. Don’tpark over papers,leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. 2-32 Engine Exhaust Engine exhaust cankill. It contains thegas carbon monoxide(CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can causeunconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: 0 Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. 0 Your vehicle gets rusty underneath, 0 Your ,vehiclewas damaged in a collision.
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transaxle) It’s better notto park with the engine running. But if you :ver have to, here are some thingsto know. h A CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”), Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fanswitch is at the highest setting. One place this can happenis a garage.
Windows Auto-Down Feature On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank located on the inside of each door to open and close each window. The driver’s window switchhas an auto-down feature. This switch is labeled AUTO. Tap the switch back, and the driver’s window will open a small amount. When the switch is moved all the way back, the window will go down all the way. Power Windows (If Equipped) To stop the window while itis lowering, move the switch forward.
Tilt Wheel (If Equipped) Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel beforeyou drive. The lever on the leftside of the steering column includes your: You can also raiseit tothe highest levelto give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a Comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.
Turn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically. An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change. To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash.
Windshield Wipers Remember that damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sureto clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them.If they’re frozen tothe windshield, carefully loosenor thaw them. If your blades do become damaged, get new bladesor blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the motor until it cools. Clear away snow orice to prevent an overload.
Windshield Washer In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form iceon the windshield, blocking your vision. To wash your windshield, pullthe stalk withthe windshield washer symbol toward you until the washers begin. When the lever is pulled with the wipers in OFF, the wipers willcontinue to work until you returnthe lever to OFF.
Cruise Control (If Equipped) When you apply your brakesor push the clutch pedal (if you have a manual transaxle), the cruise control shuts off. A CAUTION: With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 h/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). Cruise control can be dangerous whereyou can’t drive safelyat a steady speed.
Setting Cruise Control A CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise,you might hit a button and go into cruise whenyou don’t want to.You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switchOFF until you wantto use it. 1. Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want. 3. Push in the SET button at the end of the lever and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Resuming a Set Speed If you hold the switch at R/A longer than half a second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake, or clutch pedal (if you have a manual transaxle). You could be startled and even lose control, So unless you wantto gofaster, don’t hold the switch to R/A. Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed. Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed.
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control Using Cruise Control on Hills There are two waysto reduce your speed while using cruise control: How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load, and the steepnessof the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may haveto brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down.Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control.
Exterior Lamps Rotate the turn signal lever middle ring up two positions to turn on: Headlamps I- Headlamps 0 Parking Lamps Sidemarker Lamps Taillamps License Plate Lamps Instrument Panel Lights Rotate the switch to OFF to turn all of the lamps off. Lamps On Reminder If you open the driver’s door and turn off the ignition while leaving the lamps on, you will hear a warning chime.
Daytime Running Lamps Automatic Light Control (ALC) Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. Your vehicle is equipped with an automatic light sensor on top of the instrument panel under the defroster grill, so be sure it is not covered which will cause the nighttime lights to be on continuously.
Interior Lamps Fog Lamps The button for your fog lamps is beside the instrument panel intensity control. Instrument Panel Intensity Control Push the button to turn the fog lamps on. An indicator light on the button will glow when the fog lamps are on. When using fog lamps, the parking lamps or low-beam headlamps must be on. The fog lamps will turn off whenever the high-beam headlamps are turned on. When the high beams are turned off, the fog lamps will come on again.
Illuminated Entry System Front Reading Lamps(If Equipped) When youlift the outside handleof either front door or open a rear door, the lamps inside your vehicle will go on. These lamps willfade out after about40 seconds, or when the ignitionis turned on after all doors have been closed. If the ignition was recently turned off, the lamps will fade out after four seconds. These lamps will also go on when you press theDOOR or UNLOCK button on the optional Keyless Entry transmitter.
Front Map Lamps(If Equipped) Trunk Lamp If your vehicle has a sunroof, it will have a rearview mirror with lamps built in. The lamps go on when you open the doors. When the doors are closed, turn the lamps on and off with the switches located below the face of the mirror. This lamp comes on when you open your trunk. Rear Reading Lamps(If Equipped) Battery Saver Your Pontiac is equipped with a battery saver feature designed to protect your vehicle’s battery.
Mirrors Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger's side mirror is convex. A convex mirror's surface is curved so you can see more from the driver's seat. 'A I CAUTION: A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulderbefore changing lanes.
Manual Remote Control Mirror The outside rearview mirror should be adjusted so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. Adjust the driver’s side outside mirror with the control lever on the driver’s door. . ,, . . . Power Remote Control Mirror (If Equipped) This selector knob controls both outside rearview mirrors. Select the mirror you want to adjust by rotating the knob to the left or right. ..
Storage Compartments Sunglasses Storage Glove Box Place your sunglasses in the open area located above you in the overhead console, or front compartment in the center console. Use one of the vehicle’s keys to lock and unlock the glove box. To open, pull the glove box handle toward you. Center Console Cupholder Center ConsoleStorage Area The console provides space for holding a cup or soft drink. The armrest opens into a storage area for cassette tapes, gloves, etc.
Rear Seat Cupholder There are cupholders on the underside of the front storage armrest lid for the rear passengers to use. Open the lid completely touse the cupholders. Convenience Net(If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it just inside the back wallof the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behindthe net. It can help keep themfrom falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops. The net isn’t for larger, heavierloads.
NOTICE: Don’t hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it isheating, If you do,it won’t be ableto back away from the heating element when it’s ready. That can make it overheat, damaging the lighter and the heating element. Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them to the side. Your vehicle may also have a plastic extension which pulls out of the main visor to increase protection from glare. Visor Vanity Mirror Open the cover to expose the vanity mirror.
Garment Hook If your vehicle has the optional rear reading lamps, push down on the tab marked with a coat hanger symbol to fold down the garment hook. Press and release the rear of the switch and the sunroof will open to the vent position. Press the rear of the switch again to open the glass panel and the sunshade. Press the front of the switch to stop the panel in any position. Press and hold the front of the switch to close the glass panel. The sunshade can only be closed by hand.
The Instrument Panel-- Your Information Svstem I' 2-54
Your instrument panel is designed to let you know ata glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and manyother things you’ll need to drive safely and economically. The main components of your instrument panel are: A. Fuse Panel L. Gear Shift Lever B. Vent M. Cupholder/Ashtray (If Equipped) C. Turn SignalMultifunction Lever N. Enhanced Traction System (ETS) Switch (If Equipped) D. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) E.
Instrument Panel Cluster 2-56
Speedometer and Odometer Trip Odometer Your speedometer lets yousee your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (lun/h). Your odometer shows howfar your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (usedin the United States)or kilometers (used in Canada). Your Pontiac also has a tamper-resistant odometer. If you see silver lines between the numbers, you’ll know that someone has probably tried turn to it back, so the numbers may notbe true.
Tachometer Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators The tachometer shows your engine speedin revolutions per minute (rpm). NOTICE: Do not run your engine at speeds in the red area, or engine damage mayoccur. This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gagescan signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement.
Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety beltis already buckled, The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 20 seconds, then it will flash for about 55 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on.
Charging System Indicator Light The charging system indicator light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, but the engineis not running. The light will go out when the engine is stated. If it stays on when your engine is running, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system.It could indicate that you have a loose generator drive belt or another electrical problem. Haveit checked right away. Driving while this light ison could drain your battery.
If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.) A CAUTION: Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light ison. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident.
Enhanced Traction System Warning Light (If Equipped) ETS OFF With the Enhanced Traction System (ETS), this warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’sa problem. If it stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your Enhanced Traction System and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin.
Enhanced Traction System Active Light (If Equipped) LOW TRAC When yourEnhanced Traction System is limiting wheel spin, this light will come on. Slippery road conditions may exist if the Enhanced Traction System active light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few seconds after the Enhanced Traction System stops limiting wheel spin.
Low Coolant Warning Light If this light comes on and stays on, the vehicle should be promptly pulled off the road andthe coolant level checked. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index. If there are visible signs of steam see “Engine Overheating” inthe Index before opening the hood.
If the LightIs Flashing NOTICE: If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could leadto costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty. This light should come on, as a check to show youit is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.
If the Light Is On Steady You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you recently put fuel into your vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. A loose or missing fuel cap will allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips with the cap properly installed should turn the light off.
Oil Pressure Warning Light If you have a problem with your engine’s oil pressure, this light may stay on after you start your engine, or come on and stay on when you are driving. This indicates that oil isnot going through your engine quickly enough to keep it lubricated. The engine could be low on oil, or could have some other oil pressure problem. Have it fixed right away. This light can come on briefly,which is normal and doesn’t show a problem: Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low.
Check Oil Light(If Equipped) CHECK OIL If your vehicleis equipped with the3 100 engine, this light should come on briefly while you are starting your engine. If the light does not come on, haveit repaired. If the light comes on and stays on after starting your vehicle, the oil level should be checked. Prior to checking the oil level, be sure your vehicle has been shutoff for several minutes andis on a level surface. Check the oil level on the dipstick and bring it to the proper level.
Up Shift Light (Manual Transaxle) This light comes on when you need to shift to the next higher gear. See “Manual Transaxle” in the Index. Here arefour things that some owners ask about. None of these showa problem with yourfuel gage: 0 At the service station, the gas pump shuts off before the gage reads FULL (F). 0 It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up thanthe gage indicated.
fi 2-70 NOTES
Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your Pontiac. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.
Comfort Controls With this system, you can control the ventilation and heating in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. Climate Control System Temperature Knob The center control knob regulates the temperature of the air coming through the system. Mode Knob The right control knob changes the functions of your system. VENT Use when outside temperatures are mild, and little heating or cooling is needed.
d HEATER: This setting brings heated air through the heater ducts, and some through the windshield defroster vents. Climate Control System with Air Conditioning If you have the optional engine coolant heater (engine block heater) anduse it during cold weather, 0°F (- 18°C) or lower, your heating system will more quickly provide heat because the engine coolant is already warmed. See “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index.
Mode Knob 2 VENT Use when outside temperatures are mild, The right control knob changes the functions of your system. and little heating or cooling is needed. Airflow is through the instrument panel outlets. Set the center control knob to the temperature desired. MAX: Use for maximum cooling. This setting recirculates much of the air inside your vehicle. It maximizes your air conditioner’s performance and your vehicle’s fuel economy. A/C: Use for normal cooling on hot days.
Air Conditioning Heating On very hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot, inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicleto cool down, which should help fuel economy. Turning the right control knob to HEATER and the center control knob clockwise sends some heated air through the heater ducts toward your feet, and some through the defroster vents. For quick cool-down on very hot days, use MAX with the temperature knob all the way in the blue area.
Defrosting and Defogging If your vehicle is traveling under 45 rnph (70 km/h), the rear window defogger will turn off automatically To defrost the windshield, turn all three control knobs to after about 10 minutes of use. If your vehicleis the far right. traveling over 45 mph (70 km/h), the defogger will The DEFROST setting directs air through the defroster operate continuously.You can turn the defogger off by turning off the ignition or pressing the switch again.
Ventilation System Ventilation Tips Use when outside temperatures are mild, and little heating or cooling is needed. Turn the right knob to VENT. Airflow is directed throughthe instrument panel outlets. Set the center knob to the temperature desired. 0 Your Pontiac’s flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter thevehicle when the heater or the air conditioning fan isrunning.
Audio Systems AM-FM Stereo Your Delco@audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoymentout of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco system can do and how to operateall its controls, to be sure you’re getting the most outof the advanced engineering that went into it. Setting the Clock for AM-FM Stereo Press SET.
Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM and FM. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Turn the lower knob to choose radio stations. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there. PUSHBUTTONS: The four numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 14 stations (seven AM and seven FM). Just: l. Press SET. (SET will appear on the display.) 3.
AM-FM Stereo with CassetteTape Player (If Equipped) Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows yourselection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not usingit. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow togo to the next higher or lower station and staythere. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations.
Setting theTone to increase or BASS: Slide the lever to the right or left decrease bass. TREBLE: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may wantto decrease the treble. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn this knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Press this knob lightlyso it extends.
PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down m o w to search for the previous selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during PREV or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to stop searching. The sound will mute during PREV or SEEK operation. NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to search for the next selection on the tape.
CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needsto becleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should cleanit as soon aspossible to prevent damage tothe tapes and player.See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECTfor fiveseconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.
Finding a Station Setting theTone AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2.The display shows your selection. EQUALIZER: A seven band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range. TUNE: Press thisknob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not usingit. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and staythere.
Playing a CassetteTape Your tape player is built to work bestwith tapes that are 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE and BAL controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show an arrow to show whichside of the tape is playing. When the down indicator arrow is lit, selections listed on the bottom side of the cassette are playing.
00 (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the Note that the double-D symbol will appear on the display. radio off if this button is pressed first. If you leave a cassette tape in the player while listening to the radio, it Dolbymm Noise Reduction is manufactured under a may become warm. license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer(If Equipped) Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightlyso it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and stay there. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttonslet you return to your favorite stations.
Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven bandequalizer is part of your audio system.Slide the levers up to boostor down to reduce frequency range. If you’re driving on a very roughroad or if it’s veryhot, the disc may not play andE (error) and a number may appear on the radio display. If the disc comes out, it could be that: The disc is upside down. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to theleft or right speakers.
RDM (3): Press this button to hear the tracks in random. rather than sequential, order.The display will show off randomplay. RDM.PressRDMagaintoturn Remote Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped) Playing a Cassette Tape REV (5): Press and hold this buttonto quickly reverse within a track. Releaseit to play the passage.You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track.You will hear soundat a reduced volume.
PREV (1):Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to searchfor theprevious selection. A minimum three-second blank gap is needed for the player to stop at the beginning of the selection. The tape direction arrow will blinkduring the SEEK operation and the sound will mute inthis mode. PROG: Press this button on the remote cassette player to go from one side of the tape tothe other. NEXT (2): Press NEXT or the SEEK up arrow to search for the next selection.
Theft-Deterrent Feature 2. Turn the ignition to ACCESSORYor RUN. THEFTLOCK" is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. 3. Turn the radio off. 4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen.
Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter yoursecret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. LOC appears when theignition is on. 2. Press MIN and 000 will appear onthe display. 3. Press MIN again to make thelast two digits agree with your code. 4. Press HR to makethe first one or two digits agree with your code. 5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed thatthe code matchesthe secret code you have written down.
Steering Wheel Controls(If Equipped) PRESET Press this button to play a station you have programmed on the radio preset buttons. PLAY: Press this button to play a cassette tape or compact disc when the radio is playing. MUTE: Press this button to silence the system. Press it again, or any other radio button, to turn on the sound. VOL: Press the up or down arrow to increase or decrease volume.
Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damagefrom loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound thatseems normal can be loud andharmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volumecontrol on yourradio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts toit. To help avoid hearing loss or damage: 0 Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. 0 Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably and clearly.
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player thatis not cleanedregularly can cause reduced sound quality,ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored intheir cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or maycause failure of the tape player. Your tape player should becleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use.
Care of Your Compact Discs Fixed Mast Antenna Handle discs carefully. Store them intheir original cases or other protective cases and awayfrom direct sunlight and dust.If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. The fixed mast antenna can withstand mostcar washes without being damaged.If the mast shouldever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand.
7 Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kindsof roads andin varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.
Please start with a very important safety device in your Pontiac: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.) Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestriansor other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do, Be ready for their mistakes. Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common.
Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’sthe number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than manymight think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem.
Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing numberof U.S. states, and throughout Canada, the limitis 0.08 percent. In some other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States 0.04 is percent. The BAC will be over 0.
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of alcohol the in one drink. No amount of coffee or numberof cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’san emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into thestreet? A person witheven a moderate BAC might not beable to react quicklyenough to avoid the collision. There’s somethingelse about drinking and driving that many peopledon’t know.
Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it togo. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to dotheir work at the places where the tires meet the road. Braking action involves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 314 of a second.
Avoid needless heavy braking.Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes maynot have time to cool between hard stops.Your brakes will wearout much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allowrealistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking.That means better braking andlonger brake life.
The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed tomake the mostof available tire and road conditions. Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animaljumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down.
As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly. Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Alwaysleave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes.
ETS OFF When the system is on and the parking brake is fully released, this warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem with the system. See “Enhanced Traction System Warning Light” in the Index. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the Enhanced Traction System on. But you can turn the system off if you ever need to.
Braking in Emergencies With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than eventhe very best braking. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Variable Effort Steering (If Equipped) This steering system provides lighter steering effort for parking and atlow vehicle speeds.
Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stoppedin your lane,or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere,or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops rightin front of you.
Off-Road Recovery Passing You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off theedge of a road ontothe shoulder while you’re driving. The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waitsfor justthe rightmoment, accelerates, moves aroundthe vehicle ahead, thengoes back into the right lane again.
Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close.
Loss of Control Let’s reviewwhat driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the tires meet the road to dowhat the driver has asked. In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
Driving at Night Night drivingis more dangerous than day driving. One reasonis that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. 4-16 Here are some tips on night driving. 0 Drive defensively. 0 Don’t drink and drive. 0 Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. 0 Since you can’t see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.
Night Vision No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night asa 20-year-old. What youdo in the daytime can also affect your night vision. For example, if you spendthe day in bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. Butif you’re driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night.
Driving in Rainand on Wet Roads your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dryroads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get even less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see.
A CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won't work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose controlof the vehicle. After driving througha large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes cancause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if youcan't, try to slow down before you hit them.
Hydroplaning Driving ThroughDeep Standing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the roadis wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When yourvehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. I NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, watercan come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine.
City Driving Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: 0 Know the best way to getto where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the cityjust as you wouldfor a cross-country trip. 0 Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You’llsave time and energy. (See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”) Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it.
Freeway Driving The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic andkeep tothe right. Drive at the same speed mostof the other driversare driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks asmooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane ona freewayas a passinglane. At the entrance,there is usually a ramp thatleads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow.
When you want toleave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you missyour exit, do not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit. The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. \ The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higherspeeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads Is there actually such a condition as“hghway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lackof awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along withthe hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
If you drive regularlyin steep country,or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. A CAUTION: Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle.These parts can work hard on mountain roads. 0 Coasting downhill inNEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous.Your brakes will have to do all the workof slowing down. They could get so hot that theywouldn’t work well.
Winter Driving U Here are some tips for winter driving: 0 Have your Pontiac in good shape for winter. YOUmay want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. 4-26 Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probablyhave good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between yourtires and the road, you can havea very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful. What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Verycold snow orice can be slick and hardto drive on. But wet ice can be even moretrouble because it may offer the least traction of all.
Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’sstability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you havethe anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to beginstopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock‘’ inthe Index. If You’re Caught in a Blizzard Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that’s covered withice.
Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm. A CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under yourvehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcomeyou and kill you.
Run your engine only as long as you must.This saves fuel. When you run theengine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat thatyou get and it keeps the battery charged.You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possiblyfor signaling later on with your headlamps. Let theheater run for awhile. Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the wayto preserve the heat.
Follow these steps: 1. Put the front wheels on a dolly. NOTICE: Towing Your Vehicle from the Front (Manual Transaxle Only) If your vehicle has a manual transaxle, you may tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground. Do not tow your vehicle with the front wheels in contact with theground, or the automatic transaxle could be damaged. 2. Set the parking brake. 3. Open the fuse panel on the driver’s side of the instrument panel. Remove the fuse labeled PRNDL.
Follow these steps: Towing your Vehicle from the Rear 1. Set theparking brake. 2. Open the fuse panel on the driver's side of the instrument panel. Remove thefuse labeled PRNDL. This willkeep your batteryfrom draining while towing. 3. Turn the ignition key to OFF to unlock the steering wheel. 4. Shift your manualtransaxle to NEUTRAL (N). cID 8 n 5 . Release the parking brake. I NOTICE: Make sure that the towing speed does not exceed 55 mph (90 km/h), or your vehicle could be badly damaged.
Loading Your Vehicle FRT, CTR. TIRE-LOADING INFORMATION VEHICLE CAP. WT. RR. TOTAL LBS. MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE XXX COLD TIRE CAPACITY WEIGHT TIRE SIZE SPEED PRESSURE RTG PSliKPa FRT. RR. f MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP GAWR FRT GAWR RR DATE GVWR THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE U.S. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE. SPA.
A CAUTION: Do not load yourvehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on yourvehicle can break, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could causeyou to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten thelife of your vehicle. NOTICE: Your warranty does not coverparts or components that fail becauseof overloading. If you put things inside your vehicle-like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else-they will go as fast as the vehicle goes.
Towing a Trailer NOTICE: If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control whenyou pull a trailer. For example, if the traileris too heavy, the brakes may not work well or even at all. You and your passengerscould be seriouslyinjured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your Pontiac dealer for advice and information abouttowing a trailer with your vehicle.
That’s the reason for this part. In itare many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety andthat of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before youpull a trailer. 0 Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km)that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 h/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads.
You can ask yourdealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Pontiac Customer Services Department One Pontiac Plaza Pontiac, Michigan 48340-2952 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 A B Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total capacity weight of your vehicle.
Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification labelat the rearedge of the driver’s door or of the trailer so that the tongue willnot drop to the road if it becomes separated fromthe hitch. Instructions see “LoadingYour Vehicle” in the Index.
Driving with a Trailer Following Distance Towing atrailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And alwayskeep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearlyas responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Making Turns I NOTICE: 1 1 Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle couldbe damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering. When you’re turning with a trailer, make widerturns than normal.Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance.
Parking on Hills You really should notpark your vehicle, with a trailer attached, ona hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could startto move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle andthe trailer can be damaged. When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold thepedal down while you: 0 But if you ever have to park yourrig on a hill, here’s how to doit: Start your engine; Shift into a gear; and 0 Release the parking brake. 1.
fi 4-42 NOTES
Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to doabout some problems that can occur on the road.
Hazard Warning Flashers Move the switch to the right to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your keyis in, and even if the key isn’t in. To turn off the flashers, move the switch to the left. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work. Other Warning Devices Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know youhave a problem.
Jump Starting If your battery hasrc~ndown, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cablesto start your Pontiac. But please follow the steps below todo it safely. Batteries canhurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain acidthat can burn you. They contain gasthat can explode or ignite. They contain enough electricity to burn you. If you don’t follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things canhurt you.
2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Pontiac, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set theparking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in NEUTRAL (N). 3.
A CAUTION: I Using a match neara battery can cause battery gas toexplode. People have beenhurt doing this, and some have been blinded.Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the batteryhas enough water. You don’t need to add water to theDelco Freedom@ battery installed in everynew GM vehicle. But if a battery hasfiller caps,be sure the right amount of fluid is there.If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present.
7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to thepositive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+>terminal if the vehicle has one. . . I 8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) terminal. 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step.
11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service. 12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal. 9. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, butnot near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery ismuch less. 10.
Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a Pontiac dealer or a professional towing service tow your Grand Am. They can provide the right equipment and know how to tow your vehicle without damage. See “Roadside Assistance’’ in the Index. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers.
When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition off. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. The transaxle should be in NEUTRAL (N) and the parking brake released. The ignition key must be OFF to keep the automatic door locks from locking during towing. I a CAUTION: Don’t have your vehicle towed on the front wheels, unless you must.
Front Towing A vehicle can fall froma car-carrier if it isn’t adequately secured. This can causecollision, a serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains or steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing,etc.) that can be cut by sharp edges underneath the towed vehicle. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots. Never use J-hooks. They will damage drivetrain and suspension components.
NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipment or fascia/fog lightdamage will occur. Usewheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment. NOTICE: Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occurfrom vehicle to ground orvehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, installa towing dolly and raise thevehicle until adequate clearanceis obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment.
Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes in the underbody just ahead of the wheels. Rear Towing Tow Limits -- 55 mpn (88 kmfh), 500 Miles (8UU km) NOTICE: Do not tow withsling-type equipment or rear bumper valance will be damaged. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment (additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment). Use safety chains and wheel straps. Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information in “Towing Your Vehicle’’earlier in this section.
NOTICE: ~ Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle to ground orvehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, installa towing dolly and raise thevehicle until adequate clearanceis obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment. Do not attachwinch cables or J-hooks to suspension components when using car-carrier equipment. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots.
Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage and a low coolant warning light on your Pontiac’s instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Low Coolant WarningLight” in the Index. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine A CAUTION: I Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open thehood. Stay away from the engineif you see or hear steamcoming from it. Just turn itoff and get everyone away from thevehicle until it cools down.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the enginecan get a littletoo hot when you: 0 Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving. 0 Idle for long periods in traffic. 0 Tow a trailer. If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If you have an air conditioner, turnit off. If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive.
When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 3100 Engine 2.4L Engine A. Coolant Surge Tank With Pressure Cap B.
/II CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing andtools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. The coolant level should be at or above FULL COLD. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank /11 CAUTION: I Heater and radiatorhoses, and otherengine If you parts, can bevery hot. Don’t touch them. do, youcan be burned. Don%run theengine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant.That could cause an engine fire,and you could be burned. Get any leakfixed before you drive thevehicle. I NOTICE: . Engine damage from running your engine without coolantisn’t covered by your warranty.
1 A CAUTION: ~ Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid likealcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hotbut you wouldn’t getthe overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could beburned, Use a 50/50 mix of clean water and DEX-COOL@coolant.
A CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethyleneglycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine. 1. You can remove thecoolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upperradiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly about one-quarter turn tothe left and then stop. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.
3. Then fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mix, up to FULL COLD, or just above the small cvlinder at the base of the opening. 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watchout for the engine fan. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower.
If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much morelikely to leakout slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what toexpect and whatto do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Takeyour foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly.
Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn onyour hazard war kg flashers. A CAUTION:Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack androll overyou or other people. You and they could be badly injured, Find a level place to change your tire.To help prevent thevehicle from moving: 1. Set the parking brakefirmly.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools Lift and remove the cover. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this sectionfor more information about the compact spare. 5-24 Turn the wing nut counterclockwise and remove it. Then lift off the spacer and remove the spare tire. Remove thejack and wheel wrenchfrom the trunk. Your vehicle’s jack and wheel wrench are stored in a foam tray. Remove the band around the jack.
Removing the Flat Tireand Installing the Spare Tire 1. Remove the wheel nut caps (you may need to use the wheel wrench to loosen and remove them, if your fingers do not fit into this small area). The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheel wrench (B). 2. Then use the wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet.
A CAUTION: Getting under avehicle when it is jacked upis dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack,you could be badlyinjured orkilled. Never getunder a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. A CAUTION: 3. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch inthe vehicle’s frame nearest the flattire. Put the compact spare tire near you. Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage thevehicle and even make thevehicle fall.
4. Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for thespare tire to fit. 6. Remove the wheel cover from the wheel, if your flat tire has one. Thentake off the flat tire. 5. Remove all of the wheel nuts.
7. Remove any rustor dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. A CAUTION: I A CAUTION: Never use oilor grease on studsor nuts. If you do, the nuts mightcome loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 8. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded endof the nuts toward the wheel. Tighteneach nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. Rust or dirton the wheel, or on the pa which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time.
10.Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-cross sequence, as shown. 9. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower thejack completely. Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even comeoff. This could leadto anaccident. Be sure touse the correctwheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure get to new GM original equipment wheel nuts.
NOTICE: NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel nuts canlead to brake pulsation and rotor damage.To avoid expensive brake repairs,evenly tighten thewheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. Wheel coverswon’t fit on yourcompact spare.If you try to puta wheel cover on yourcompact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare. Don’t try to put a wheelcover on your compactspare tire. It won’t fit.
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools A CAUTION: m\ H Storing ajack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartmentof the vehicle could cause injury.In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. Store the flat tire in the compact spare tire compartment. Place thetire in the compartment, then secure the adapter, extension (aluminum wheels only) and wing bolt. Placethe cover and nut ontop of the flat tire.
Storing the Spare Tire and Tools B Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartmentof the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Storeall these in the proper place. The compact spareis for temporary use only.Replace the compact sparetire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See “Compact Spare Tire” inthe Index. See the storage instructions label to replace your compact spare into your trunk properly. 5-32 A. Wrench B.
Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new,it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly.It should be 60 psi (420 Wa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stopas soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow NOTICE: What you don’t want todo when your vehicleis stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution. Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin thewheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle.
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you willfind information about the care of your Pontiac. This section begins with service and fuel information, and thenit shows howto check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, anda part devoted to itsappearance care.
Service Your Pontiac dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll getgenuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GMvehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Delco Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to get the proper Pontiac Service Manual.
Adding Equipment to the Outsideof Your Vehicle Things you might addto the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your Pontiac dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. At a minimum, it should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93 in Canada.
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienylmanganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not his fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not recommend the use of such gasolines. If fuels containing MMT areused, spark plug life may bereduced and youremission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on.
Filling Your Tank 6h,CAUTION: Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keepsparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline. The cap is behind a hinged door on the right side of your vehicle.
A To open the fuel door, pull the fuel access handle on the floor by the driver’s seat. While refueling, hang the tethered cap over the hook inside the fuel door. The remote fuel filler door release can help keep your fuel tank from being siphoned. Always be sure the fuel door is closed and latched after refueling. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.
When youput the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure CAUTION: you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can I = determine if the fuel cap has beenleft off or improperly If you get gasoline on yourself and then installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the something ignites it,you could be badly burned. atmosphere. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the the Index.
Checking Things Under the Hood Hood Release ' A CAUTION: The following sections tell you how to check fluids, lubricants and important parts underhood. I An electric fan under thehood can startup and injure you even whenthe engineis not running. Keep hands, clothing andtools away from any underhood electric fan. A CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engineparts and start a fire.
I Then go to thefront of the vehicle and lift the secondary hood release handle upward. Lift the hood, release the hood prop rodfrom its retainer and put the hoodprop into the slot in the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hoodprop from the slot in the hood and return the prop to its retainer. Thenjust letthe hood down and close it firmly.
2.4L (CODE T) Engine When youopen the hood, you’ll see: A. B. C. D. Engine Coolant Surge Tank Engine Oil Fill Cap Engine Oil Dipstick Automatic Transaxle Dipstick (If Equipped) 6-10 E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E Brake Fluid Reservoir G. Windshield WasherFluid Reservoir H. Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Reservoir (If Equipped) I. Air Cleaner J.
3100 (CODE M) Engine When youopen the hood, you’ll see: A. B. C. D. Engine Coolant Surge Tank Power Steering Fluid Reservoir Engine Oil Fill Cap Engine Oil Dipstick E. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick F. Brake Fluid Reservoir G. Windshield WasherFluid Reservoir H. Air Cleaner I.
Engine Oil CHECK OIL If your Pontiac is equipped with the 3100 engine, there is a CHECK OIL light in your . instrument panel cluster. If the CHECK OIL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need tocheck your engine oil level right away. For moreinformation, see “Check Oil Light” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. It’s a good idea to check yourengine oil every time you get fuel.
1 CheckingEngineOil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level. 3100 Engine The engine oil dipstick handle is yellow. The dipstick on the 2.4L engine is located at the rear of the engine. The dipstick on the 3100 engine is located on the front of the engine, behind the fan. Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan.
When to Add Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD line, then you’ll need to add at least 1 quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index. NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine hasso much oil that the oil level gets above the upper mark that shows the proper operating range, your engine couldbe damaged. 2.4L Engine The 2.
What Kind of Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this Starburst symbol. If you change your own oil, 3100 Engine The 3100 engine oil fill cap is on the front of the engine, behind the radiator. Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range.
~ ~ ~ ~~ RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRAD€ ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY GRADE 011 FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. LOOK FOR MIS SYMBOL HOT WEATHER As shown in thechart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you canuse SAE 1OW-30 if it’s going to be 0°F (- 18” C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness.Do not use other viscosity oils, such asSAE 20W-50.
Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anythingto your oil. Your Pontiac dealer is ready to advise if you think something shouldbe added. When to Change EngineOil If any one of these is true for you, use the short trip/city maintenance schedule: 0 Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. 0 Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). 0 Most trips are through dusty areas.
Air Cleaner Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. A-CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you or others tobe burned. Theair cleaner not only cleansthe air, it stops flameif the engine backfires. If it isn’t there,and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’tdrive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is whenthe engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 lun) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) orhigher. In hilly or mountainous terrain. When doing frequent trailer towing. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
Checking the Fluid Level ' 0 'hen, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range,pausing for about three secondsin each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). Let the engine run at idle forthree to fiveminutes. The automatic transaxle dipstick handle is red. 1.
3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area. 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way. How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids andLubricants” in the Index. NOTICE: We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON@-111, becausefluid with that labelis made especiallyfor your automatic transaxle.
How to Check Then, follow these steps: Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Pontiac dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle. Too much can mean that someof the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, startinga fire.
How to Add Fluid Here’s how to add fluid. Refer to theMaintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. 1. Remove the dipstick by flipping the handle up and then pulling the dipstick out. 2. Add fluid at the dipstick hole. Add onlyenough fluid to bring the fluid level up to the FULL markon the dipstick. 3. Push the dipstick back in all the way; then flip the handle down to lock the dipstick in place. Hydraulic Clutch 3.
When to Check and Whatto Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often you should check the fluid level in your clutch master cylinder reservoir and for the proper fluid. See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. ., , I . ... How to Check The proper fluid should be added if the level is at or below the STEP mark on the reservoir cap. See the instructions on the reservoir cap.
NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important thatyou use only DEX-COOL@(silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosionmay result.In addition, the engine coolantwill require change sooner at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or24 months, whichever occursfirst. Damage causedby the use of coolant other than DEX-COOL@ is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.
Checking Coolant NOTICE: If you use an improper coolantmix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack theengine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. I NOTICE: ~ ~~ If you use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve the system.
Adding Coolant A CAUTION: n r n i n g the surge tank pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids toblow out and burnyou badly. Never turn the surge tank pressure capeven a little when the engine and radiator are hot, -- -- When yourengine is cold, the coolant level should be at the FULL COLD mark, or a little higher. If the low coolant light comes on, it means you’re low onengine coolant.
Surge Tank Pressure Cap Power Steering Fluid NOTICE: Your pressure cap is an 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. When youreplace your surge tank pressure cap, a GM cap is recommended. Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature.
How To Check Power Steering Fluid Adding Washer Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. The level should be at the C mark. If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to the mark. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use.
NOTICE: 0 0 0 ~ When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other partsof the washersystem. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your washer fluid tankonly three-quarters full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansionif freezing occurs, which coulddamage the tankif it is completely full.
There are only two reasons why the brake fluid levelin the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down toan acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new liningsare put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system.If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work all. at BRAKE So, it isn’t a good ideato “top off” your brake fluid.
What toAdd When youdo need brakefluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme11 (GM Part No. 12377967). Use new brake fluidfrom a sealed container only. NOTICE: @ Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir. /d CAUTION: With the wrong kindof fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could causea crash. Always use the proper brakefluid.
Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly Your Pontiac has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. applied. This does not mean something is wrong with Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a your brakes. high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn See “Caliper/Knuckle Maintenance Inspection” in and new pads are needed.
Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc brakes adjust for wear. If you rarely make a moderate or heavier stop, then yourbrakes might notadjust correctly.
I A CAUTION: I Bulb Replacement -1 Batteries have acidthat can burnyou and gas that canexplode. You can be badlyhurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the Index a battery without for tips on working around getting hurt. Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Also, for your audio system, see “Theft-Deterrent Feature” in the Index.
Headlamp Bulb Replacement 3. Remove the two headlamp assembly attachment bolts. When replacing the headlamp bulb, do not touch the glass portion of the new halogen bulb. The oil from your fingers will shorten the life of your new halogen bulb. For the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. 1. On the driver’s side only, unscrew the butterfly fastener. Then lift the plate. 2. Remove the attachment bolts of the headlamp support strap.
4. Lift the headlamp assembly outof the mounting bracket. 5. Twist the bulb assembly counterclockwise one-sixth 6. Unclip the bulb assembly fromthe wiring harness. 7 . Reverse Steps 1 through 5 to replace the bulb assembly and headlamp housing. of a turn and pull out the bulb assembly.
Rear Exterior Lamps Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp 1. Use a flat screwdriverto gently release the tabs on the trim cover. A. Stop/Taillamp B. Turn Signal Lamp C. Back-up Lamp 6-38 ?. Using a flat screwdriver, remove the screws holding the bulb assembly.
3. Use a flatscrewdriver to release the tabs holding the socket in place. Turn Signal and Stop/Taillamp Bulb Replacement 4. Gently remove and replace the bulbs. For thetype of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. 5. Reverse this procedure to reassemble the lamp. Back-up Lamps 1. Open the trunk lid and locate the back-up lamps or1 the inside of the lid. 2. Gently remove the bulbsfrom the socket. 3. Replace the bulb in the socket. 4. Close the trunk lid. 1. Pull back the trunk trim. 2.
3. Carefully remove the taillamplens from the body and avoid scratching the paint or dropping it. 5. To remove a bulb, gently pushin and turn the bulb counterclockwise. 4. To remove a socket, pushin the lock tab and turn the socket counterclockwise to pullit out 5. Reverse Steps 1 through 5 to reassemble the taillamp. Dome Lamp Bulb Replacement To change your dome lamp bulb, grasp the center front and center rear portion of the housing and squeeze firmly but gently.The housing should pop off.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Tires Your new Pontiac comes with high-quality tires made by a leadingtire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Pontiac Warranty bookletfor details. 6b, CAUTION: Replacement bladescome in different types and are removed in different ways. Here’s howto remove the type with a release clip: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
- CAUTION: (Continued) NOTICE: ~ Underinflated tires pose the same dangeras overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when your tires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured or brokenby a sudden impact such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tiresat the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents.
When to i- -- ~ Check yourtires once a month or more. 0 Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 P a ) . How to Check Use a goodquality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. I Be sureto put the valve caps back on the valve stems. .They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture.
-CAUTION: When It’s Time for New Tires IA Rust or dirton a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can makewheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could comeoff and cause an accident. Whenyou change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to thevehicle. In anemergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure touse a scraper or wire brushlater, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirtoff. (See “Changing a Flat Tire” in theIndex.
Buying New Tires To find out what kindand size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) The grades are molded onthe sidewalls of most passenger car tires.
-- Temperature A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
A CAUTION: Using the wrong replacementwheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tireslose air and makeyou lose control. You could have a collision in which you or others could be injured.Always use the correct wheel, wheel boltsand wheel nuts for replacement.
Tire Chains NOTICE: If your Pontiac hasP195/65R15 or P205/55R16 size tires, don’t use tire chains. They can damage yourvehicle because there’s not enough clearance. Use another typeof traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tiresize combination and road conditions. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive slowly, readjust orremove the device if it’s contacting yourvehicle, and don’t spin yourwheels.
Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these will damage your vehicle: Alcohol 4. Use solvent-type cleaners in a well-ventilated area only. If you use them, don’t saturate the stained area. Laundry Soap 5. If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entire area immediately or it will set. Bleach Using Foam-Type Cleaner on Fabric Reducing Agents 1. Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt.
Using Solvent-Type Cleaneron Fabric First, see if you have to use solvent-type cleaner atall. Some spots and stains will clean off better with just water and mild soap. Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain if left on a vehicle’s seat fabric. They should be removed as soon as possible. Be careful, because the cleaner will dissolve them and may cause them to spread. If you needto use a solvent: Non-Greasy Stains 1.
Combination Stains Cleaning Leather Stains caused by candy,ice cream, mayonnaise, chili sauce and unknownstains can be removed as follows: Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap or saddle soap and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Then, let the leather dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry. 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain. 2. Clean with cool water and allow to dry. 3. If a stain remains, clean it with solvent-type cleaner. For stubborn stains, use a leather cleaner.
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. Cleaning the Outsideof the Windshield and Wiper Blades If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running, wax, sap or other material maybe on the blade or windshield. Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. Ina crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Cleaning the Outsideof Your Pontiac Finish Care The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of color, gloss retention and durability. Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Pontiac by hand may benecessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index.
Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar,tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage your vehicle’sfinish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years.
Finish Damage Chemical Paint Spotting Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into a major repair expense. Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on your vehicle. This damage can take two forms: blotchy, ringlet-shaped discolorations, and small irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface.
Appearance Care Materials Chart 6-57
Vehicle Identification Number(VIN) 0 the model designation, paint information and 0 II 11111111 1111111111 bd 111 11111111 111111111111 11111111111= SAMPLE4UXVM072675 bd e a list of all production options and special equipment. Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle. Electrical System This is the legal identifier for your Pontiac. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side.
Headlamp Wiring Fuses and Circuit Breakers The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker located in the instrument panel fuse block. An electrical overload will cause the headlamps to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have your headlamp system checked right away. The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers and fusible links. This greatly reduces the chance of damage caused by electrical problems.
Instrument Panel Fuse Block I 1 TURN CRUISE + PRNDL DR L K 2 PWR ST I RDO IGN HTR-A/C I I 1 I DR LK 1 INST INSTLPS STOP HA2 RR DEF I WIPER 02 I 0 r U The main fuse panel is located on the left side of the instrument panel. To access the fuses,open thefuse panel door.
Fuse INT LPS PWR ST RDO IGN HTR-A/C CRUISE TAIL LPS LTR WIPER 02 DR UNLK Usage Alarm Module (Illuminated Entry, Warning Chimes, Overhead Lamps, Map/Reading Lamps, Glove Box Lamp, Trunk Lamp, Radio, Power Mirrors), Anti-Lock Brakes, Variable Effort Steering Power Seat Radio Heater/Air Conditioning Blower.
Engine Compartment FuseBlock F/P,INJR I IGN MOD 1 b L 1 ABSiEVO PCM BATT I Fuse F/P INJ ERLS The engine compartment fuse blockis located on the driver’s side of the engine compartment, near the battery.
Fuse IGN MOD HVAC BLO MOT PCM BATT CLG FAN HDLP STOP LPS PWR ACC RR DEFG ABS IGN SW Usage IgnitionBULB System LAMPS Heater/Air Conditioner-High Blower, Generator-Voltage Sense Powertrain Computer Engine Cooling Fan Lighting Circuits Power Accessories, Stop Lamp Circuits, Rear Window Defogger Anti-Lock Brakes, Variable Effort Steering Ignition Switch Circuits53 Replacement Bulbs OUTSIDE Back-up Lamps ......................... 2057 Front Parkingnurn Signal Lamps . . . . . . . .
Capacities and Specifications Fuel Tank . . . . . . . . . Engine Crankcase 2.4L Engine . . ....... 3 100 Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15.2 gallons (57.5 L) . 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) Tire Pressures, Sizes . See Tire-Loading Information label on driver’s door. 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) Wheel Nut Torque . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 lb-ft (140 Nem) Automatic Transaxle Pan Removal andReplacement . . . 7.4 quarts (7.0 L) After Complete Overhaul. . . . . . . 10.0 quarts (9.
Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioningrefrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the properrefrigerant is used. If you’re not sure, ask your Pontiac dealer. Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Element 2.4L . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3100 . . I . . AC Type A-1233C . AC Type A-1233C . Engine Oil Filter 2.4L 3100 ............... I . . . . AC Type PF-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
fi 6-66 NOTES
7 Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your Pontiac. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance.
Introduction IMPORTANT. Your Vehicle and the Environment KEEP ENGINE 01; AT THE PROPER LEVEL AND CHANGE AS RECOMMENDED n protection Plan I Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties, See your Warranty andOwner Assistance booklet, or your Pontiac dealer for details. 7-2 Proper vehicle maintenancenot only helpsto keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommendedmaintenance procedures are important.
How This Section is Organized The remainder of this section is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled MaintenanceServices” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services canbe complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service department or another qualified service centerdo these jobs. I Performing maintenance workon a vehicle can be dangerous.In trying to do some jobs,you can be seriously injured.
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good workingcondition. But we don’t know exactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very short distances only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances all the time in very hot, dusty weather. You may use your vehicle in making deliveries. Or you may drive it towork, to doerrands or in many other ways.
Maintenance Schedule Short Trip/City Definition Follow the Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule if any one of these conditions is true for your vehicle: Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. 0 Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). 0 Most trips are through dusty areas. You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of your vehicle.
Maintenance Schedule Trip/Highway Long Definition TriplHighway Long Intervals Follow this maintenance schedule only if none of the conditions from the Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule is true. Donot use this schedule if the vehicle is used for trailer towing, driven in a dusty area or used off paved roads. Use the Short Trip/City schedule for these conditions. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed engine under highway conditions causes engine oil to break down slower.
Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles (166 000 km)at the same intervals. The services shown at 150,000miles (240 000 krn) should be performed at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km). # Lubricate the suspension and steering linkage. See “Owner’s Checks and Services” and “Periodic Maintenance Inspections’’ following. ++ If you drive in a highly corrosive environment, Footnotes The U.
I I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 3,000 Miles (5 000 km) 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.> 0Rotate tires.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 9,000 Miles (15 000 km) 12,000 Miles (20 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I lS,OOO Miles (25 000 km) 18,000 Miles (30 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Sewice. An Emission Control Service, 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote?.) DATE 7-10 ACTUAL MILEAGE 3 months, whichever occurs first).
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 21,000 Miles (35 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 1 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) El Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service, An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 27,000 Miles (45 000 km) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks.
I Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedu 33,000 Miles (55 000 km) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) DATE SERVICED ACTUAL MILEAGE BY 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 36,000 Miles (60 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 39,000 Miles (65 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Indexfor proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 42,000 Miles (70 000 km) El Change engine oil and filter (or every 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 3 months, whichever occurs first). Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 50,800 Miles (83 000 km) 48,000 Miles (80 000 km) 0Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90O F (32 O C) or higher. - In hilly or mountainous terrain. An Emission Control Service.
I ShortTrip/CityMaintenanceSchedule I 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. Manual transaxle fluid doesn’t require change.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 54,000 Miles (90 000 km) 57,000 Miles (95 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage 3 months, whichever occurs first). or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote?.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++.) An Emission Control Service.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 63,000 Miles (105 000 km) 66,000 Miles (110 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
I ShortTrip/CityMaintenanceSchedule 69,000 Miles (115000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every I 72,000 Miles (120000 km) 3 months, whichever occurs first). Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule1 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 78,000 Miles (130 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
1 Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 81,000 Miles (135 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 1 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) 3 months, whichever occurs first). Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 87,000 Miles (145 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every I 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 3 months, whichever occurs first). Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 93,000 Miles (155 000 km) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) I I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED B Y An Emission Control Service.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 96,000 Miles (160 000 km) 99,000 Miles (165 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
I 1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) 0Inspect spark plug wires - When doing frequent trailer towing. (except 2.4L Code T engine). - An Emission Control Service. 0Replace spark plugs. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you donot use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter donot require changing. An Emission Control Service.
1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule ~~~~~ ~ ~~ ~ 150,000 Miles (240 000 km) 0Drain, flush and refill cooling system ~~ (or every 60 months since last service, whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” inthe Index for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure test cooling ’system andpressure cap. An Emission Control Service.
The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km)should be performed at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km). # Lubricate the suspension and steering linkage. See “Owner’s Checks and Services” and “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” following. ++ If you drive in a highly corrosive environment, Footnotes The U.S.
7,500 Miles (12 500 km) 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
22,500 Miles (37 500 km) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
30,000 Miles (50 000 km) (Continued) 37,500 Miles (62 500 km) 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage 0Change engine oil and filter (or every or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote?.) 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every c]Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90 O F (32 O C) or higher. - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
I Long Trip/Highway ‘Maintenance Schedule 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) (Continued) - 52,500 Miles(87 500 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). Uses such asfound in taxi, police or delivery service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. 12 months, whichever occursfirst). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components(or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++,) 0Inspect engine accessory drive belt. Replace air cleaner filter.
I LongTrip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule I 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occursfirst). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
I L.ong TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 97,500 Miles (162 500 km) c]Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and 0Change engine oil and filter (or every Rotation’’ in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional infomation. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++.) 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
100,000 Miles (166 800 km) 0Inspect spark plug wires (except 2.4L Code T engine). An Emission Control Service. 0Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. 0Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90 O F (32O C) or higher. - In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service.
150,000 Miles (240 000 km) 17 Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 60 months since last service, whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure test the. cooling system and pressure cap. An Emission Control Service.
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed below are owner checks and services which should be performed atthe intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in Part D.
At Least Twice aYear Restraint System Check Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly.Look for any other loose or damaged safety beltsystem parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced.
Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI) Check (Automatic Transaxle) Starter Switch Check I A CAUTION: , When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly.If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake (see “Parking Brake” in the Index if necessary) and the regular brake.
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and withthe 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 whenthe shift lever is in PARK (P). With a manual transaxle, the key should turn to LOCK only whenthe shift lever is in REVERSE (R). On vehicles witha key release button, try to turn the key to LOCK without pressing the button. The key should turn to LOCK only when youpress the key button.
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed beloware inspections and services which should be performedat least twice a year (for instance, each spring andfall). You should let your GM dealer’s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs. Make sure any necessaryrepairs are completed at once. Proper procedures to perform theseservices may be found in a GM service manual. See “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index.
Brake System Inspection Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear androtors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake linings for wear andcracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc. The parking brake is self-adjusting and no manual adjustment is required.
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Hydraulic Brake Delco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid System (GM Part No. 12377967 or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid). @ NOTE: Fluids andlubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your GM dealer. USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT Engine Oil Engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol of the proper viscosity.
I USAGE I FLUIDLUBRICANT USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT Manual Transaxle Shift Linkage Chassis lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2, Category LBor GC-LB. Hood Latch Assembly, Pivots, Spring Anchor and Release Pawl Lubriplate lubricant aerosol (GM Part No. 12346293 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2, Category LBor GC-LB. Clutch Linkage Pivot Points Engine oil.
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Your owner information portfolio is a convenient place to store them.
Maintenance Record DATE 7-50 ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED
7 Section 8 CustomerAssistanceInformation Here you will find out how to contact Pontiac if you need assistance. This section also tells you how toobtain service publications and how to report any safety defects.
Pontiac Cares v PONTIAC With PONTIAC CARES, you are never more than a phone call awayfrom having your concern taken care of. 8-2 The PONTIAC CARES philosophy andelements are designed to make yourealize that Pontiac recognizes you as a valuable customer, appreciates your purchase decision, and is dedicated to taking care of the most important person ...
What makesup Pontiac Cares? 0 Customer Satisfaction Procedure A 3 year/36,000 mile (60 000 km)Bumper to Bumper Warranty Customer Assistance 0 Roadside Assistance Courtesy Transportation All of these elements combine to make your driving experience an enjoyable one, and are discussed in greater detail further in your owner's manual. Pontiac is focusing on the changing needs of our customers and is committed to giving you an exceptional level of customer care throughout the ownership experience.
Pontiac dealers have the facilities, trained technicians and up-to-date information to promptly address any concerns you mayhave. However, if a concern has not been resolved to yourcomplete satisfaction, take the following steps: STEP ONE -- Discuss your concern witha member of dealership management. Normally,concerns can be quickly resolvedat that level. Ifthe matter has already been reviewed withthe Sales, Service or Parts Manager, contact the ownerof the dealership or the General Manager.
For prompt assistance, please have the following information available to give the Customer Assistance Representative: Your name, address, home and business telephone numbers Vehicle Identification Number (This is available from the vehicle registration or title, or the plate at the top left of the instrument panel and visible through the windshield.
Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program Security WhileYou Travel 1-800-ROADSIX (1-800-762-3743) As the proud owner of a newPontiac vehicle, you are automatically enrolled in the Pontiac Roadside Assistance program. This value-added service is intended to provide you withpeace of mind as you drive in the city or travel the open road. Pontiac’s Roadside Assistance toll-free number is staffed by a team of technically trained advisors, who are available 24 hours a day,365 days a year.
We will provide the following services for 3 year/36,000 miles(60 000 km), at no expense to you: Fueldelivery 0 Keys locked in vehicle 0 Tow to nearest dealership for warranty service Change a flat tire 0 Jumpstarts 0 Courtesy Transportation -- See Pontiac Courtesy Transportation section for details We have quick, easy access to telephone numbers of the following additional services depending on your needs: 0 Hotels Glassreplacement Rental vehicle or taxis Police, fire department or hospitals In many instan
Canadian Roadside Assistance Vehicles purchased in Canada have an extensive Roadside Assistance program accessible from anywhere in Canada or the United States. Please refer to the separate brochure providedby the dealer or call 1-800-268-6800 for emergency services. Pontiac Courtesy Transportation Pontiac strives to give you a worry free ownership of your vehicle, and werealize the inconvenience of being without a car.
GM Participation in an Alternative Dispute Resolution Program This program is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Canadian owners refer to your Warranty and Owner Assistance Information booklet for information on the Canadian Motor Vehicle Arbitration Plan (CAMVAP).General Motors reserves the right to change eligibility limitations and/or to discontinue its participation in this program.
We prefer you utilize the Customer Satisfaction Procedure before you resort to AUTO LINE, but you may contact the BBB at any time. The BBB will attempt to resolve the complaint serving asan intermediary. If this mediation is unsuccessful, an informal hearing will be scheduled whereeligible customers may presenttheir case to an impartial third-party arbitrator. The arbitrator will makea decision which you may accept or reject.If you accept the decision, GM willbe bound by that decision.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT If you live in Canada, and youbelieve that your vehicle has a safety defect, you should immediately notify Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General Motors of Canada Limited. You may write to: Transport Canada Box 8880 Ottawa, Ontario K 1G 3J2 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
1997 PONTIAC SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order, or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.
ORDER TOLL FREE (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-782-4356 (Monday-Friday8:OO AM - 6:OO PM EST) FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927 . . . . . . .. . : : . d % .. . I:: a Orders willbe mailed within 1 Omdays of receipt. Please allow ade uate time for posta service. If further informatlon IS needed, write to the address s own below or call 1-800-782-4356. Material cannot be returned for credit without.packing slip with return information within30 days of delivery.
fi 8-14 NOTES
ORDER TOLL FREE (NOTE:For Credit Card HoldersOnly) 1-800-782-4356 (Monday-Friday 8:OO AM - 6:OO PM EST) FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927 .. . . , I:.. : a Orders will be mailed within 10 days of receict. Please allow ade uate time for postal service. If further information is needed, write to the addresss own below or call 1-800-782-4356. Material cannotbe returned for credit without,packing slip with return information within 30 daysof delivery.
v Section 9 Index Accessory Power Outlet ......................... 2-52 Adapter Kit. CD ........................... 3-13. 3-16 Adding Equipment to Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3 Adjuster. Seat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2. 1-48 AirBag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21 How Does it Restrain .......................... 1-25 Howitworks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake ........ . . .6-34 Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . Fluid ....................................... 6-30 6-30 Master Cylinder .............................. 2-2 8 Parking ..................................... Pedal Travel ................................. 6-34 Replacing System Parts ........................ 6-34 System Warning Light .................... 2-60, 6-31 4-38 Trailer ...................................... Transaxle Shift Interlock Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-43 6-33 Wear ........
Vinyl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-52 Wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-55 Windshield and Wiper Blades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-53 Climate Control System ........................... 3-2 Climate Control System with Air Conditioning . . . . . . . . . 3-3 Clock, Setting the ................................ 3-8 Clutch Fluid, Hydraulic .......................... 6-23 Clutch, Hydraulic ............
E a s y Entry Seat ................................ 1-6 Electrical Equipment. Adding . . . . . . 2.17. 2. 18. 3.24. 6-58 Electrical System ............................... 6-58 Engine .................................. 6.10. 6.11 Coolant ..................................... 6-24 Coolant Heater ............................... 2- 19 Coolant Level Check .......................... 7-41 Coolant Temperature Gage ..................... 2-63 Exhaust . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10.2-32,2-33.4-29.
GloveBox .................................... 2-50 Graphic Equalizer .............................. 3- 13 Gross Axle Weight Rating ........................ 4-33 Gross Vehicle Weight Rating ...................... 4-33.. Guide en Frangais ................................. 11 GVWR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33 Halogen Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35 Hazard Warning Flashers .......................... 5-2 Head Restraints ....
Labels Certification ................................. 4-33 Service Parts Identification ..................... 6-58 Tire-Loading Information ...................... 4-33 Vehicle Identification Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-58 Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43 Exterior .................................... 2-43 Fog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-45 Interior ..............................
Manual Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . ............... Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fluid ....................................... Shifting ..................................... Starting Your Engine .......................... Methanol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mirrors ....................................... Convex Outside .............................. Inside Daymight Rearview .....................
R a d i o Reception .............................. 3-23 Radios ........................................ 3-8 Rain, Driving In ................................ 4- 18 Reading Lamps ........................... 2-46, 2-47 Rear Door Security Locks ........................... 2-6 Outside Seat Position .......................... 1-27 Safety Belt Comfort Guides ..................... 1-3 1 Seatpassengers .............................. 1-27 Window Defogger ............................. 3-6 Rear Seat Cupholder ........
Safety Chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-38 Safety Defects. Reporting ........................ 8-10 ... 111 Safety Warnings and Symbols ....................... Scheduled Maintenance Services .................... 7-4 Seat Adjuster .............................. 1-2. 1-48 Seatback Latches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 Reclining Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4 Seats EasyEntry ...............
Sunroof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-53 Supplemental Restraint System .................... 1-21 Surge Tank 5- 16 Coolant ..................................... How to Add Coolant .......................... 5- 18 Pressure Cap ................................. 6-28 Symbols. Vehicle ....... .................... v ........ . . .2-10 Synchronization . . . . . . . . . . 2-58 Tachometer .................................. Taillamp Bulb Replacement .......................
Transaxle Automatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.16.2.21.6.19. 7.42 Manual ...................... 2.16.2.25.6.21. 7.42 Transmitters. Keyless Entry ........................ 2-7 8-8 Transportation. Courtesy .......................... Trir, Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-57 Trink Lamr, ........................ . . . . . . . . . . 2-47 Lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10 Security Override .........................
&f ServiceStationCheckpoints COOLANT FUEL 3100 ENGINEOIL DIPSTICK P6-13 P6-9 WINDSHIELD FLUID -u I / / HOOD RELEASE P6-8 TIRES P6-41 REMOTE FUELDOOR P6-6 TRUNK RELEASE P2-11