Pontiac 1998 Firebird Owner's Manual page 360

Ignition Transmission Lock Check
While parked, and with the
parking brake set, try to turn
the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position.
With an automatic transmission, the key should turn
to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P).
With a manual transmission, the key should turn to
On vehicles with a key release button, try to turn the key
to LOCK without pressing the button. The key should
turn to LOCK only when you press the key button.
LOCK only when the shift lever is in REVERSE (R).
On all vehicles, the key should come out only in LOCK.
Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission
PA-" :P) M 'nanisl k
Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing
downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake,
set the parking brake.
To check the parking brake's holding ability:
With the engine running and transmission in
NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure from
the regular brake pedal. Do this until the vehicle is
held by the parking brake only.
0
To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability:
With the engine running, shift to PARK (P). Then
release all brakes.
Underbody Flushing Service
At least every spring, use plain water to flush any
corrosive materials from the underbody. Take care to
clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris
can collect.
When you are doing this check, your vehicle
could begin to move. You or others could be
injured and property could be damaged. Make
sure there is room in front of your vehicle in case
it
begins to roll. Be ready
to
apply the regular
brake at once should the vehicle begin to move.
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