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The 1999 Pontiac Grand Prix Owner's Manual
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Seats and Restraint Systems
This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the "SRS" system.
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Features and Controls
This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle.
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Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.
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Your Driving and the Road
Here you'll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.
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Problems on the Road
This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.
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Service and Appearance Care
Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good.
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Maintenance Schedule
This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.
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Customer Assistance Information
This section tells you how to contact Pontiac for assistance and how to get service and owner publications.
It also gives you information on "Reporting Safety Defects" on page 8
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Index
Here's an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find
something you want to read.
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Table of Contents
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Summary of Contents for Pontiac 1999 Grand Prix

  • Page 1 This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Pontiac for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8 Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual.
  • Page 2 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, PONTIAC, the PONTIAC Emblem and the name GRAND PRIX are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice.
  • Page 3: How To Use This Manual

    How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly.
  • Page 4 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 that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly.
  • Page 5 Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. For example, These symbols these symbols are important are used on an for you and original battery: your passengers whenever your vehicle is CAUTION driven: POSSIBLE INJURY DOOR LOCK PROTECT...
  • Page 6 yellowblue NOTES...
  • Page 7: Table Of Contents

    Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many People Ask About...
  • Page 8: Seats And Controls

    Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you how to adjust the seats and explains reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
  • Page 9 6-Way Power Driver’s Seat (If Equipped) This switch is designed to control the movements of your seat cushion. It is located on the left side of the driver’s seat cushion. To move the seat forward or rearward, push the switch forward or rearward.
  • Page 10 4-Way Power Lumbar Driver’s Seat (If Equipped) If your vehicle is equipped, there will be a control switch on the left side of the driver’s seat cushion, just in front of the reclining seatback lever. To increase or decrease lumbar support, push the switch forward or rearward.
  • Page 11 Reclining Front Seatbacks Lift the lever to release the seatback, then move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback in place. Pull up on the lever without pushing on the seatback, and the seatback will move forward.
  • Page 12: Head Restraints

    CAUTION: (Continued) The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen.
  • Page 13: Safety Belts: They're For Everyone

    On two door models, the right front seat is designed to make it easy to get in and out of the rear seat. Tilt the right seatback fully forward. The whole seat will now slide forward. If the seat will not tilt, lift the seatback latch, located on the back of the seat to tilt the seatback forward.
  • Page 14 CAUTION: It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts.
  • Page 15: Why Safety Belts Work

    yellowblue Why Safety Belts Work When you ride 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.
  • Page 16 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 a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... yellowblue...
  • Page 17 yellowblue or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.
  • Page 18: Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- And The Answers

    Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers 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 unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.
  • Page 19: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly

    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 riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.”...
  • Page 20 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.
  • Page 21 yellowblue The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.
  • Page 22 Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (4 Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. 1-16 Door Models) To move it down, squeeze the release lever and the shoulder belt guide as shown and move the height adjuster to the desired position.
  • Page 23 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. CAUTION: 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 should fit against your body.
  • Page 24 What’s wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place. 1-18 CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones.
  • Page 25 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury.
  • Page 26 What’s wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body. 1-20 CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.
  • Page 27: Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

    To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.
  • Page 28: Right Front Passenger Position

    The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.
  • Page 29 CAUTION: Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. This is true even with Next Generation frontal air bags.
  • Page 30 There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows SRS AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.
  • Page 31 The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear.
  • Page 32 When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 12 to 18 mph (19 to 29 km/h).
  • Page 33 What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag will be hot for a short time.
  • Page 34 NOTICE: If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag.
  • Page 35: Center Passenger Position

    Center Passenger Position Lap Belt If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions. When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
  • Page 36: Rear Seat Passengers

    To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. 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” at the 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.
  • Page 37 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.
  • Page 38 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. 1-32 The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones.
  • Page 39: Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides For Children

    To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head.
  • Page 40 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 1-34 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.
  • Page 41: Children

    4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides.
  • Page 42 CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should.
  • Page 43 CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued) CAUTION: (Continued) at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 will suddenly become a 240 your arms.
  • Page 44: Child Restraints

    Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. What are the different types of add child restraints? on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will...
  • Page 45 yellowblue A rear facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash.
  • Page 46 yellowblue A forward facing child restraint (C E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age.
  • Page 47 yellowblue A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system.
  • Page 48: Where To Put The Restraint

    When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both.
  • Page 49: Top Strap

    CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat.
  • Page 50 If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you. This work will be done for you free of charge.
  • Page 51 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
  • Page 52 To remove the child 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 ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position You’ll be using the lap belt.
  • Page 53 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. 3. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
  • Page 54 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. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear facing child restraint in this seat.
  • Page 55 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
  • Page 56: Larger Children

    6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 7.
  • Page 57 Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.
  • Page 58 1-52 CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen.
  • Page 59: Safety Belt Extender

    Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you.
  • Page 60 yellowblue NOTES 1-54...
  • Page 61 Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, 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.
  • Page 62 yellowblue Keys CAUTION: Leaving children in 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 children.
  • Page 63 You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have extra keys. cut emergency key which Pontiac sends after delivery. 3743). (In Canada call 1 NOTICE: yellowblue ROADSIDE 6800.)
  • Page 64: Door Locks

    Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked.
  • Page 65: Power Door Locks

    Power Door Locks To unlock all doors from inside the vehicle, press the front of the power door lock switch on either front door. If your vehicle is equipped with a Content Theft Deterrent system, the power door lock switch will not unlock the doors until the system is disarmed.
  • Page 66: Last Door Closed Locking

    Last Door Closed Locking The Last Door Closed Locking feature makes it more convenient for you to use your power door locks to lock all the doors when leaving your vehicle. When any door is open, the first time you attempt to lock the doors using the power door lock switch or remote keyless entry transmitter (if equipped) this will result in three chimes to signal that the Last Door Closed Locking...
  • Page 67: Leaving Your Vehicle

    Rear Door Security Locks (4-Door Models) Your vehicle is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside. To use one of these locks: 1. Open one of the rear doors. 2.
  • Page 68 Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) If your vehicle is equipped, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Button Key Fob Your keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
  • Page 69 This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: Check to determine if battery replacement or...
  • Page 70: Battery Replacement

    Remote Trunk Release Press the trunk symbol on your remote keyless entry transmitter to open your trunk. The transaxle must be in PARK (P) for this feature to operate. Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle.
  • Page 71 To replace the battery: 1. Insert a flat object like a dime into the slot on the side of the transmitter and twist to separate the halves. 2. Gently pry the battery out of the transmitter. Do not use metal flanges to “pop out” the battery. 3.
  • Page 72: Multifunction Alarm Locks And Lighting Choices

    yellowblue Multifunction Alarm Locks and Lighting Choices Your vehicle’s locks and lighting systems can be programmed with several different features. The features you can program depend on the options that came with your vehicle. The following chart shows the features that can be programmed.
  • Page 73: Entering Programming Mode

    Entering Programming Mode To program features, your vehicle must be in this programming mode. Follow these steps: 1. Turn the ignition key to LOCK or OFF. 2. Remove the MALL PGM fuse from the instrument panel fuse block. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.
  • Page 74 To change the mode do the following: 1. Follow the instructions for “Entering Programming Mode” listed previously. 2. Turn the interior lamps dial all the way clockwise and then back slightly counterclockwise. 3. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for.
  • Page 75 Mode 3: Automatic Unlocking with the Ignition Off Automatic Door Unlocking: Turn off the ignition with the transaxle in PARK (P) and all doors will unlock automatically. Automatic Door Locking: Shift out of PARK (P) with the ignition on and the driver’s door closed and all doors will lock automatically.
  • Page 76 Programmable Modes Your vehicle can be programmed to one of the following modes. Mode 1: Both Features Off (Doors will always lock immediately when you press LOCK on the power door lock switch or the remote keyless entry transmitter, if equipped.) Mode 2: Lockout Prevention Only (If you leave your key in the ignition with the driver’s door open, you will not be able to lock the doors using your power locks.)
  • Page 77: Remote Lock And Unlock Confirmation

    To customize these features to your preference, see “Programmable Modes” following. Programmable Modes Your vehicle can be programmed to one of the following modes. Mode 1: Remote All Doors Unlock (When you press UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter, all doors will unlock.) Mode 2: Remote Driver’s Door and All Doors Unlock (When you press UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry...
  • Page 78 To customize these features to your preference, see “Programmable Modes” following. Programmable Modes Your vehicle can be programmed to one of the following modes. Mode 1: Both Features Off (Remote lock and unlock confirmation are disabled.) Mode 2: Exterior Lamps Flash Only Remote Lock Confirmation: When you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to lock the vehicle, the headlamps will flash briefly to let you know the...
  • Page 79 3. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode the vehicle is set for. You change the mode by pressing LOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter again. 4. Repeat Step 2 until you hear the number of chimes that matches the mode you want.
  • Page 80 3. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode the vehicle is set for. You change the mode by turning the parking lamps on, then off again. 4. Repeat Step 2 until you hear the number of chimes that matches the mode you want.
  • Page 81 The Content Theft Deterrent system will disarm when you unlock the doors with the remote keyless entry transmitter. NOTE: While this mode provides increased security, it can be a problem if the remote keyless entry transmitter is damaged, lost or if it fails to operate for any reason while the Content Theft Deterrent system is armed.
  • Page 82: Trunk Lock

    Trunk CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk:...
  • Page 83 Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves...
  • Page 84: Arming With The Power Lock Switch

    Content Theft Deterrent (If Equipped) The vehicle may have a theft deterrent alarm system. A red light located on top of the instrument panel (near the center of the vehicle, in front of the windshield) will flash slowly when the system is armed. 2-24 While armed, the doors will not unlock with the power door lock switch.
  • Page 85 Arming with the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter The alarm system will arm when you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to lock the doors after the key is removed from the ignition. The security light will turn on to let you know the system is arming. After all doors are closed and locked, the security light will begin flashing at a very slow rate to let you know the system is armed.
  • Page 86: Ignition Positions

    New Vehicle “Break In” NOTICE: Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: Don’t drive at any one speed slow for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full throttle starts.
  • Page 87 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 turn it toward you. The steering wheel will stay locked. LOCK (B): Before you put the key into the ignition switch, the switch is in LOCK.
  • Page 88: Starting Your Engine

    Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is moving.
  • Page 89 NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle.
  • Page 90 3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds.
  • Page 91: To Use The Engine Coolant Heater

    To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord is located below the air cleaner near the coolant reservoir bottle. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110 CAUTION: Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock.
  • Page 92: Automatic Transaxle Operation

    Automatic Transaxle Operation The automatic transaxle may have a shift lever on the steering column or on the console between the seats. Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic transaxle vehicles when you’re in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), to protect driveline components from improper operation.
  • Page 93 Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. The vehicle has a Brake Shift Interlock (BTSI). You must fully apply the regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down.
  • Page 94 DRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push the accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator pedal all the way down.
  • Page 95 FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power, but lower fuel economy than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.
  • Page 96: Parking Brake

    Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with the right foot. Push down on the parking brake pedal with the left foot. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with the right foot and push the parking brake pedal with the left foot.
  • Page 97 Shifting Into PARK (P) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
  • Page 98 Move the lever up as far as it will go. 3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave the vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, the vehicle is in PARK (P). 2-38 Console Shift 1.
  • Page 99: Torque Lock

    3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave the vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, the vehicle is in PARK (P). Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the...
  • Page 100: Shift Lock Release

    Shifting Out of PARK (P) CAUTION: Before shifting out of PARK (P) you must fully apply your regular brakes. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured.
  • Page 101 The first is located To use this slot: underneath the steering 1. Verify that the shift lever is in PARK (P) (with the column below the lock cylinder. 2. Locate the override access slot below the 3. Remove the override access slot cap. 4.
  • Page 102 For vehicles with center console mounted gear shift levers, the second override access slot is located on the upper right hand side of the console shift panel. 2-42 To use this slot: 1. Verify that the shift lever is in PARK (P) and that the shift knob button is fully released.
  • Page 103: Parking Over Things That Burn

    Parking Over Things That Burn CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. Engine Exhaust CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell.
  • Page 104 Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”).
  • Page 105: Power Windows

    Power Windows Switches on the driver’s door armrest control each of the windows when the ignition is on. In addition, each passenger door has a switch for its own window. The driver’s window switch has an auto This switch is labeled AUTO. Tap the rear of the switch, and the driver’s window will open a small amount.
  • Page 106: Tilt Wheel

    Tilt Wheel A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever located on the left hand side of the steering column below the turn signal/multifunction lever.
  • Page 107: Turn And Lane Change Signals

    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.
  • Page 108: Windshield Wipers

    Windshield Wipers You control the windshield wipers by turning the band marked WIPER on the turn signal/multifunction lever. For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle.
  • Page 109 Cruise Control (If Equipped) With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/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). When you apply the brakes, the cruise control shuts off.
  • Page 110 Setting Cruise Control CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use it.
  • Page 111: Exterior Lamps

    Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: Push in the SET button until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. To slow down in very small amounts, push the SET button for less than half a second.
  • Page 112: Daytime Running Lamps

    : Turn the knob to this symbol to turn on the headlamps and other operating lamps. : Turn the knob to this symbol to turn on the parking and other operating lamps without the headlamps. Turn the knob to OFF to turn off the lamps. 2-52 Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for...
  • Page 113: Fog Lamps

    When it’s dark enough outside, your headlamps will change to full brightness. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When it’s bright enough outside, the regular lamps will go out, and your low beam headlamps change to the reduced brightness of DRL.
  • Page 114 The fog lamps will go off whenever you change to high beam headlamps. When you return to low beams, the fog lamps will come on again. Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by turning the interior lamps dial.
  • Page 115: Exit Lighting

    Delayed Illumination The Delayed Illumination feature will continue to illuminate the interior for 25 seconds after all the doors have been closed so that you can find the ignition and buckle the seat belt at night. Delayed Illumination will not occur while the ignition is in RUN or ACCESSORY. After 25 seconds have elapsed, the interior lamps will slowly fade out.
  • Page 116: Front Reading Lamps

    Front Reading Lamps If the vehicle has the optional sunroof, you will have reading lamps in front of the sunroof switch. Press the button behind each reading lamp to turn them on and off. Rear Assist Handle Reading Lamps There is a reading lamp provided in each rear assist handle.
  • Page 117 Mirrors Adjust all the mirrors so you can see clearly when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror To reduce glare from lamps behind you, pull the lever toward you (to the night position). To return the mirror back to the day position, push the lever away from you.
  • Page 118 One photocell on the front of the mirror senses when it is becoming dark outside. Another photocell, facing rearward, senses headlamps behind you. To turn the electrochromic feature off, press the button on the bottom of the mirror again. To keep the photocells operating well, occasionally clean them with a cotton swab and glass cleaner.
  • Page 119: Glove Box

    Storage Compartments Glove Box Use the master key to lock and unlock the glove box. To open, lift the right side of the latch. Overhead Console (Option) The optional overhead console has reading lamps, storage compartments (including one for your garage door opener and one for sunglasses) and an accessory power outlet.
  • Page 120 4. Once the opener is installed, remove the peg (B) from the compartment. Install the peg onto the feature (A) on the door that is aligned with your garage door opener button. 5. Add one peg at a time until your garage door opener operates with the compartment door closed when you press the button.
  • Page 121 Center Console Storage (If Equipped) To open the armrest storage area, pull up on the front edge of the latch. The console has cassette and CD storage and a coinholder. The center console also contains two cupholders. To access the cupholders, pull the cupholder door, located just behind the console shift lever.
  • Page 122: Ashtrays And Cigarette Lighter

    Convenience Net (If Equipped) The vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it on the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, in the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops.
  • Page 123: Sun Visors

    NOTICE: Don’t put papers and other things that burn into the ashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage. To use the lighter, located inside the center front ashtray, just push it in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself.
  • Page 124 OnStar System (Option) OnStar is a vehicle communications service which may be ordered through your dealer. The following OnStar services are available 24 hours a day: Roadside Service with Location Emergency Services Button Remote Door Unlock Theft Vehicle Tracking Automatic Notification of Air Bag Deployment Concierge/Customer Conveniences Services For more information, contact the dealer.
  • Page 125 Sunroof (If Equipped) The sunroof includes a sliding glass panel and a piece sunshade. The switch works only when the ignition or RAP is on. See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index. Push the rear of the switch once and the sunroof will open to the vent position only.
  • Page 126 yellowblue The Instrument Panel Your Information System 2-66...
  • Page 127 The main components of the instrument panel are: A. Side Window Defogger Vents B. Fog Lamp Switch C. Multifunction Lever D. Instrument Panel Cluster E. Emergency Flasher Button F. Full Floating Horn G. Column Shift Lever (If Equipped) H. Trip Computer/Driver Information Center (DIC) I.
  • Page 128: Instrument Panel Cluster

    yellowblue Instrument Panel Cluster United States Version Shown, Others Similar The instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how the vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel is in the tank and many other things you need to drive safely and economically. 2-68...
  • Page 129 Speedometer/Odometer The speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). The odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven in either miles (used in the United States) or in kilometers (used in Canada).
  • Page 130: Safety Belt Reminder Light

    Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement.
  • Page 131: Air Bag Readiness Light

    Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows SRS AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module.
  • Page 132: Brake System Warning Light

    Brake System Warning Light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.
  • Page 133 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti system, this light will come on when you start your engine and it will stay on for three seconds. That’s normal. If the anti lock brake system warning light stays on longer than normal after you’ve started your engine, turn the ignition off.
  • Page 134: Enhanced Traction System Warning Light

    Enhanced Traction System Warning Light (3100 V6 or 3800 V6 Engine) The Enhanced Traction System warning light may come on for the following reasons: If you turn the system off by pressing the TRAC button on the far right hand side of the driver information center or trip computer (if equipped), the warning light will come on and stay on.
  • Page 135: Malfunction Indicator Lamp

    Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On Board Diagnostics Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment.
  • Page 136 This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: Light Flashing A misfire condition has been...
  • Page 137 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. See “Filling Your Tank” in the Index. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed.
  • Page 138 Oil Warning Light If you have a problem with your oil pressure, this light may stay on after you start your engine, or come on when you are driving. This indicates that oil is not going through your engine quickly enough to keep it lubricated. The engine could be low on oil or could have some other oil problem.
  • Page 139: Low Oil Level Light

    Low Oil Level Light The engine is equipped with an oil level monitoring system. When the ignition key is turned to ON, the LOW OIL LEVEL light will briefly flash. If the light does not flash, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
  • Page 140: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

    Engine Coolant Temperature Gage You have a gage that shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, the engine is too hot! That reading means the same thing as the warning light. It means that the engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating the vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop the vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible.
  • Page 141 Here are four things that some owners ask about. All these things are normal and do not indicate that anything is wrong with the fuel gage: At the gas station, the pump shuts off before the gage reads F (FULL). It takes a more (or less) fuel to fill up than the gage reads.
  • Page 142 Head Up Display (Option) CAUTION: If the HUD image is too bright, or too high in your field of view, it may take you more time to see things you need to see when it’s dark outside. Be sure to keep the HUD image dim and placed low in your field of view.
  • Page 143 When the ignition key is turned to RUN, the HUD image will come on. Then the Head operate normally. NOTICE: Although the HUD image appears yo be near the front of the vehicle, do not use it as a parking aid. The HUD was not designed for that purpose.
  • Page 144 4. Turn the DIM dial down until the HUD image is no brighter than necessary. To turn the HUD off, turn the DIM dial all the way down. If the sun comes out, it becomes cloudy, or if you turn on your headlamps, you may need to adjust the HUD brightness again.
  • Page 145 If You Can’t See the HUD Image When the Ignition Is On Is anything covering the HUD unit? Is the HUD dimmer setting bright enough? Is the HUD image adjusted to the proper height? Still no HUD image? Check the fuse in the instrument panel fuse block.
  • Page 146 yellowblue Driver Information Center (DIC) (If Equipped) The Driver Information Center (DIC) gives you important safety and maintenance facts. When you turn the ignition on, all of the Driver Information Center lights light up for a few seconds. Then it goes to work. 2-86...
  • Page 147 Functions : If one of the doors is ajar, a light will appear next to that door on the vehicle outline. CHANGE OIL SOON: This light will appear when the system predicts that the oil’s remaining useful life is almost up. The system predicts remaining oil life using inputs from length of drives, coolant temperature, engine rpm and vehicle speed.
  • Page 148 yellowblue Trip Computer (If Equipped) 3100 and 3800 Engines When you start the engine, the trip computer will display a mode. A lighted oval will appear to the left of the mode currently being used. 2-88...
  • Page 149 yellowblue 3800 Supercharged Engine When you start the engine, the trip computer will display a mode. A lighted oval will appear to the left of the mode currently being used. 2-89...
  • Page 150: Control Buttons

    Control Buttons The trip computer has three buttons that control its functions. ENG/MET: Press this button to change the display from English to metric units or metric to English. RESET: Press this button for two seconds to reset the mode displayed. MODE: Press this button to change the mode being displayed.
  • Page 151 DOOR AJAR: If one of the doors is left ajar, a light will appear next to that door on the vehicle outline. BOOST GAGE: If you have the 3800 supercharged engine, this gage will show the amount of boost the engine is receiving.
  • Page 152 yellowblue NOTES 2-92...
  • Page 153 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 vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Comfort Controls Air Conditioning with Electronic Controls Air Conditioning with Automatic and Auxiliary Temperature Control (If Equipped)
  • Page 154: Comfort Controls

    Comfort Controls Air Conditioning with Electronic Controls With this system, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle. The system works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. Fan Knob The left knob selects the amount of air you want. To turn the fan off, turn the knob to OFF.
  • Page 155 FLOOR: This setting sends most of the air through the ducts near the floor. The remaining airflow comes out of the defroster and side window vents. DEFOG: This setting allows half of the air to go to the floor ducts and half to the defroster and side window vents.
  • Page 156: Air Conditioning With Automatic And

    Heating On cold days use FLOOR with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air, heat it and send it to the floor ducts. If your vehicle has an engine coolant heater, you can use it to help your system provide warm air faster when it’s cold outside 0 _ F ( 18 _ C) or lower.
  • Page 157 Automatic Control For the most efficient operation, you should set the system temperature and press AUTO. The system will select the best fan speed and airflow settings to keep you comfortable. The air conditioning compressor will run if the outside temperature is above 38 _ F (3.3 _ C). You may notice a delay of three to four minutes before the fan comes on.
  • Page 158 Hot Weather Example: When you start the vehicle in hot weather, 80 _ F (27 _ C) or after being parked during the day in full sun, if your Driver Set Temperature is 73 _ F (23 _ C) and you are in Full Automatic mode, the system will automatically move the temperature doors to full cold.
  • Page 159 LEV: This setting brings in the outside air and directs it two ways. Half of the air is directed through the instrument panel outlets. Most of the remaining air is directed through the floor ducts and a little to the defrost and side window vents.
  • Page 160: Rear Window Defogger

    Heating On cold days use LOWER. The system will bring in outside air, heat it and send it to the floor ducts. If your vehicle has an engine coolant heater, you can use it to help your system provide warm air faster when it’s cold outside 0 _ F ( 18 _ C) or lower.
  • Page 161: Ventilation System

    The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Press the button to turn the rear defogger on. It will turn itself off after about ten minutes. If you turn it on again, the rear defogger will only run for about five minutes before turning off.
  • Page 162: Audio Systems

    When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, adjust the mode knob to FLOOR and the fan to the highest speed for a few seconds before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture and reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.
  • Page 163 Finding a Station FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. 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 using it.
  • Page 164 Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 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, BAL, BASS and TREB controls just as you do for the radio.
  • Page 165 (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. Note that the double D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
  • Page 166: Am - Fm Stereo With Compact Disc Player And

    AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player (If Equipped) Playing the Radio POWER VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this knob.
  • Page 167 Setting the Tone BASS: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or 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 want to decrease the treble.
  • Page 168 RDM (3): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. The display will show RDM. Press RDM again to turn off random play. REV (5): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. Release it to play the passage. You will hear sound at a reduced volume.
  • Page 169 Finding a Station AM/FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. 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 using it.
  • Page 170 If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played.
  • Page 171: Trunk-Mounted Cd Changer (Option)

    Trunk-Mounted CD Changer (Option) With the optional compact disc changer, you can play up to 12 discs continuously. Normal size discs may be played using the trays supplied in the magazine. The small discs (8 cm) can be played only with specially designed trays.
  • Page 172 Close the door by sliding it all the way to the left. If the door is left partially open, the changer will not operate and an error will occur. When the door is closed, the changer will begin checking for discs in the magazine. This will continue for up to two minutes depending on the number of discs loaded.
  • Page 173 If the error occurred while trying to play a CD in the compact disc player or changer, the following conditions may have caused the error: The road is too rough. The disc should play when the road is smoother. The disc is dirty, scratched or wet. The disc is label side up.
  • Page 174: Theft-Deterrent Feature

    FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track. As the CD advances, elapsed time will be displayed to help you find the correct passage. RECALL: Press this button to see what track is currently playing. Press RECALL again within five seconds to see how long the track has been playing.
  • Page 175 Activating the Theft Deterrent Feature The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting the procedure. NOTE: If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4.
  • Page 176 Unlocking the Theft Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display. 2. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display. 3.
  • Page 177: Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped)

    To unlock a secured radio, see “Unlocking the Theft Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss” earlier in this section. Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio and remote playback functions using the buttons on your steering wheel.
  • Page 178: Understanding Radio Reception

    Understanding Radio Reception The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.
  • Page 179: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player

    Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player.
  • Page 180: Care Of Your Compact Discs

    You may also choose a non scrubbing action, wet cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject on its own. A non scrubbing action cleaner may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner.
  • Page 181: Backglass Antenna (If Equipped)

    Backglass Antenna (If Equipped) Your AM FM antenna is integrated with your rear window defogger, located in the rear window. Be sure that the inside surface of the rear window is not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not damaged.
  • Page 182 yellowblue NOTES 3-30...
  • Page 183 Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving. Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Road Recovery...
  • Page 184: Defensive Driving

    Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: 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.”...
  • Page 185: Drunken Driving

    Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: Judgment Muscular Coordination Vision...
  • Page 186 It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
  • Page 187: Control Of A Vehicle

    The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.
  • Page 188: Braking

    Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle. Braking Braking action involves perception time and reaction time.
  • Page 189 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 may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking.
  • Page 190 Here’s how anti lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at both rear wheels.
  • Page 191 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.
  • Page 192 See “Traction Control System Warning Light” in the Index. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. The traction control system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on.
  • Page 193: Braking In Emergencies

    The Enhanced Traction System operates in all transaxle shift lever positions. But the system can upshift the transaxle only as high as the shift lever position you’ve chosen, so you should use the lower gears only when necessary. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. This TRAC OFF warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem.
  • Page 194: Steering

    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 (Option) This steering system provides lighter steering effort for parking and when driving at speeds below 20 mph (32 km/h).
  • Page 195: Steering In Emergencies

    If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. 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.
  • Page 196: Off - Road Recovery

    Road Recovery You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.
  • Page 197 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.
  • Page 198: Loss Of Control

    Loss of Control Let’s review what 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 do what 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.
  • Page 199: Driving At Night

    Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving. Drive defensively.
  • Page 200: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads

    You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps), slow down a little.
  • Page 201 The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road and even people walking.
  • Page 202 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 control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.
  • Page 203: Driving Through Deep Standing Water

    Driving Through Deep Standing Water NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly.
  • Page 204: Freeway Driving

    Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross country trip.
  • Page 205: Before Leaving On A Long Trip

    If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Pontiac dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it. yellowblue such as after a day’s...
  • Page 206: Highway Hypnosis

    Here are some things you can check before a trip: Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble...
  • Page 207: Hill And Mountain Roads

    Hill and Mountain Roads Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain. If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable.
  • Page 208 CAUTION: Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill.
  • Page 209: Winter Driving

    Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. 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.
  • Page 210: Driving On Snow Or Ice

    Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip”...
  • Page 211 Your anti lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti Lock”...
  • Page 212 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.
  • Page 213: Recreational Vehicle Towing

    Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can.
  • Page 214: Loading Your Vehicle

    Loading Your Vehicle Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry. The Tire Loading Information label is on the inside of the trunk lid. The label tells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation pressures for the tires on your vehicle.
  • Page 215 CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash.
  • Page 216: Towing A Trailer

    Towing a Trailer CAUTION: If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a trailer. For example, if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not work well or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured.
  • Page 217: If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer

    You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Pontiac GMC Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 436008 Pontiac, MI 48343 6008 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre...
  • Page 218: Weight Of The Trailer Tongue

    Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle.
  • Page 219: Safety Chains

    Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: Your vehicle may have nonmetallic, composite bumpers. The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches.
  • Page 220: Making Turns

    Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working.
  • Page 221: Turn Signals When Towing A Trailer

    Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your dealer. The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop.
  • Page 222: Maintenance When Trailer Towing

    But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into PARK (P) yet. 2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels. 3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes until the chocks absorb the load.
  • Page 223 Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers Other Warning Devices Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Engine Overheating Cooling System If A Tire Goes Flat Changing a Flat Tire Compact Spare Tire If You’re Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow...
  • Page 224: Hazard Warning Flashers

    Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press the switch on top of the steering column to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.
  • Page 225: Jump Starting

    Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please follow the steps listed to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain acid that can burn you.
  • Page 226 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 vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.
  • Page 227 To uncover the remote positive (+) terminal, squeeze the sides of the plastic cap and slide the plastic cap off. CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light.
  • Page 228 5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative ( ) will go to negative ( or a metal engine part.
  • Page 229 7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 8. Now connect the black negative ( good battery’s negative ) terminal.
  • Page 230: Towing Your Vehicle

    12. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery Towing Your Vehicle CAUTION: To help avoid serious personal injury to you or others: Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed.
  • Page 231: Engine Overheating

    With current trends in automotive styles and design, it is essential that the correct towing equipment is used to tow a vehicle. Your vehicle can be towed with wheel lift or car carrier equipment. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the drive wheels, unless you must. If the vehicle must be towed on the drive wheels, do not tow the vehicle more than 500 cumulative miles (800 km) or exceed 50 mph (80 km/h).
  • Page 232 yellowblue If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
  • Page 233: If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine

    If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high speed driving.
  • Page 234: Cooling System

    Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 3100 Engine A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans C. Radiator Pressure Cap 5-12 3800 and 3800 Supercharged Engine A. Coolant Recovery Tank B.
  • Page 235 CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
  • Page 236 NOTICE: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty. See “Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode” in the Index. NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX COOL (silicate free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX COOL is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result.
  • Page 237 NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
  • Page 238 CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap even a little they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot.
  • Page 239 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.
  • Page 240 3. If you have the 3800 V6 engine, remove the 3800 Series II V6 engine cover shield to access the bleed valve. A. Clean the area around the engine oil fill tube and cap before removing. Twist the oil fill tube, with cap attached, counterclockwise and remove it.
  • Page 241 Thermostat Housing (3800 V6) 4. After the engine cools, open the coolant air bleed valve or valves. 3100 V6 engine: There are two bleed valves. One is located on the thermostat housing. The other is located on the thermostat bypass tube. 3800 V6 engine: There is one bleed valve.
  • Page 242 7. If you have the 3800 V6 engine, replace the 3800 Series II V6 engine cover shield. A. Remove the oil fill tube, with cap attached, from the valve cover. B. Insert the catch tab on the cover shield under the bracket on the engine.
  • Page 243: If A Tire Goes Flat

    12. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this. 13. Check the coolant in the recovery tank. The level in the coolant recovery tank should be at the HOT mark when the engine is hot or at the COLD mark when the engine is cold.
  • Page 244: Changing A Flat Tire

    Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. CAUTION: Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people.
  • Page 245 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. Pull the carpeting from the floor of the trunk. Then lift and remove the cover. Turn the center nut on the compact spare cover counterclockwise to remove it. Remove the compact spare tire.
  • Page 246 Turn the nut holding the jack counterclockwise and remove it. Then remove the jack and wrench. 5-24 The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) extension and protector/guide (B) and wheel wrench (C). yellowblue...
  • Page 247: Spare Tire

    If there is a wheel cover, Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the loosen the plastic nut caps Spare Tire with the wheel wrench. They won’t come off. Then, using the flat end of the wheel wrench, pry along the edge of the cover until it comes off.
  • Page 248 For jacking at the vehicle’s front location, put jack lift about 6 inches (15 cm) from the rear edge of the front wheel opening or between the two bolts as shown. 5-26 For jacking at the vehicle’s rear location, put the jack lift head about 5.5 inches (14 cm) from the front edge of the rear wheel opening or just behind the set as shown.
  • Page 249 CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall.
  • Page 250 4. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident.
  • Page 251 7. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. 8. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. 9. Replace wheel trim. If present, tighten plastic caps by hand. With a wheel wrench tighten plastic caps an additional 1/4 turn.
  • Page 252 CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts.
  • Page 253: Storing The Spare Tire And Tools

    When storing a full size tire, you must use the extension to help avoid wheel surface damage. Use the extension and protector/guide located in the foam holder. To store a full size tire, place the tire in the trunk valve stem facing down, with the protector/guide through a wheel bolt hole.
  • Page 254: Compact Spare Tire

    1. Retainer 2. Cover 3. Retainer (Full Size Spare) 4. Tire 5. Nut 6. Jack 7. Wrench 8. Lock Nut Tool 9. Foam 10. Bolt Screw 11. Nut Extension and Protector/Guide 5-32 Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time.
  • Page 255: If You're Stuck In Sand, Mud, Ice Or Snow

    NOTICE: When the compact spare is installed, don’t take your vehicle through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other parts of your vehicle. Don’t use your compact spare on other vehicles.
  • Page 256: Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out

    NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle. For information about using tire chains on your vehicle, see “Tire Chains”...
  • Page 257 Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
  • Page 258: Doing Your Own Service Work

    Service Your 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 get genuine GM parts and trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll...
  • Page 259 CAUTION: You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.
  • Page 260 (See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.) If this occurs, return to your authorized Pontiac dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
  • Page 261: Fuels In Foreign Countries

    To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel.
  • Page 262: Filling Your Tank

    Filling Your Tank 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. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline. The cap is behind the fuel door on the driver’s side of your vehicle.
  • Page 263 CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather.
  • Page 264: Checking Things Under The Hood

    Filling a Portable Fuel Container CAUTION: Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs.
  • Page 265: Hood Release

    Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle. It is located at the lower, left the vehicle, near the parking brake. hand side of Next go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release.
  • Page 266 When you open the hood of the 3100 engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Coolant Reservoir 6-10 E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G. Engine Oil Dipstick yellowblue H.
  • Page 267 When you open the hood of the 3800 engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Coolant Reservoir E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (low in engine compartment) F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G. Engine Oil Dipstick yellowblue H.
  • Page 268 When you open the hood of the 3800 Supercharged engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Coolant Reservoir 6-12 E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (low in engine compartment) F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G.
  • Page 269: Engine Oil

    Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly. 3800 Supercharged Engine (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a 3800 Supercharged engine. The supercharger is a device which is designed to pump more air into the engine than it would normally use.
  • Page 270: Checking Engine Oil

    The engine oil dipstick handle is the yellow loop near the front of the engine. 3100 Engine Supercharged Engine Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.
  • Page 271: When To Add Engine Oil

    3800 Engine When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one 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”...
  • Page 272: What Kind Of Engine Oil To Use

    What Kind of Engine 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.
  • Page 273 yellowblue As shown in the chart, if you have the 3100 V6 engine, SAE 5W 30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can 30 if it’s going to be 0 _ F ( 18 _ C) or use SAE 10W above.
  • Page 274 As shown in the chart, if you have the 3800 V6 engine, SAE 10W 30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can 30 if it’s going to be colder than 60 _ F use SAE 5W (16 _ C) before your next oil change. When it’s very cold, you should use SAE 5W 30.
  • Page 275: Engine Oil Additives

    Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage, but on engine revolutions and engine operating temperature.
  • Page 276 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To check or replace the air cleaner/filter: 1. Loosen the two clips on the top of the air cleaner housing and lift the filter cover tabs out of the housing. 2. Push the filter cover housing toward the engine, compressing the duct convolutes.
  • Page 277: Supercharger Oil

    Supercharger Oil Unless you are technically qualified and have the proper tools, you should let your dealer or a qualified service center perform this maintenance. When to Check Check oil level every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or every 36 months, whichever occurs first. What Kind of Oil to Use See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”...
  • Page 278: Automatic Transaxle Fluid

    Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90...
  • Page 279 Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: When outside temperatures are above 90 At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180 F (82...
  • Page 280: How To Add Fluid

    2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. 3100 Engine 6-24 3800 or 3800 Supercharged Engine 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross 4.
  • Page 281: Radiator Pressure Cap

    If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long neck funnel, add enough fluid at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than one pint (0.5 L).
  • Page 282: Engine Coolant

    Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with COOL engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only COOL extended life coolant.
  • Page 283 What to Use Use a mixture of one half clean, drinkable water and half DEX COOL coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous.
  • Page 284: Checking Coolant

    Checking Coolant The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD mark or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to the HOT mark or a little higher. 6-28 If this LOW COOLANT light comes on and stays on,...
  • Page 285: Power Steering Fluid

    CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap little when the engine and radiator are hot.
  • Page 286: How To Check Power Steering Fluid

    How to Check Power Steering 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.
  • Page 287: Windshield Washer Fluid

    Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
  • Page 288: Brake Fluid

    Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. It is filled with DOT brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear.
  • Page 289 What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. Refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule. Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it.
  • Page 290: Brake Wear

    Brake Wear Your vehicle has four wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built in wear indicators that make a high pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).
  • Page 291: Replacing Brake System Parts

    Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top quality GM brake parts.
  • Page 292: Bulb Replacement

    Bulb Replacement In this section, you’ll find directions for changing the bulbs on your vehicle. See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to find the type of bulb you should use. Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb.
  • Page 293 3. Carefully remove the headlamp assembly from the vehicle. Be careful to avoid scratching or chipping the paint on the vehicle while removing. 4. Lift the plastic tab on the electrical connector and pull the connector. 5. Turn the lamp socket ring a quarter of a turn counterclockwise to remove it from the headlamp assembly.
  • Page 294 6. Pull the bulb from the socket. 7. Place the new bulb into the socket. 8. Turn the lamp socket ring a quarter of a turn clockwise to place it back into the headlamp assembly. 9. Lift the plastic tab on the electrical connector and replace the connector.
  • Page 295 5. Remove the bulb from the socket. 6. Place the new bulb into the socket. 7. Turn the bulb socket a quarter of a turn clockwise to replace it. 8. Carefully replace the headlamp assembly. Be careful to avoid scratching or chipping the paint on the vehicle while replacing.
  • Page 296 3. Remove the bulb by turning it a quarter of a turn counterclockwise. 4. Place the new bulb into the bulb socket. 5. Turn the bulb a quarter of a turn clockwise to replace. Replace the vent you removed earlier. 6.
  • Page 297 yellowblue 5. Carefully remove the taillamp assembly. Be 6. Turn the lamp socket a quarter of a turn careful to avoid scratching or chipping the paint on counterclockwise to remove. the vehicle. 6-41...
  • Page 298: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

    7. Remove the bulb. 8. Place the new bulb into the socket. 9. Turn the lamp socket a quarter of a turn clockwise to replace it. 10. Carefully replace the taillamp assembly. Be careful to avoid scratching or chipping the vehicle paint. 11.
  • Page 299 Your new vehicle comes with high a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Pontiac Warranty booklet for details. CAUTION: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.
  • Page 300 Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire Loading Information label, which is on the inside of the trunk lid, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km).
  • Page 301: Tire Inspection And Rotation

    Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10 000 to 13 000 km). Any time you notice unusual wear, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels.
  • Page 302: Buying New Tires

    When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire.
  • Page 303: Uniform Tire Quality Grading

    CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial and bias belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle.
  • Page 304 Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
  • Page 305: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance

    Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance. Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are not needed. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the alignment may need to be reset.
  • Page 306: Tire Chains

    Used Replacement Wheels CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.
  • Page 307: Appearance Care

    Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions.
  • Page 308: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems

    Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn. If a ring forms on fabric after spot cleaning, clean the entire area immediately or it will set. Using Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner on Fabric 1.
  • Page 309: Cleaning Vinyl

    Cleaning Vinyl Use warm water and a clean cloth. Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do it more than once. Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if you don’t get them off quickly. Use a clean cloth and a vinyl/leather cleaner.
  • Page 310: Care Of Safety Belts

    Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. CAUTION: Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water.
  • Page 311: Cleaning The Outside Of Your Vehicle

    Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent application may be required. (See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”...
  • Page 312: Cleaning Tires

    NOTICE: Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish may dull the finish or leave swirl marks. 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’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces.
  • Page 313: Sheet Metal Damage

    Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Pontiac will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase, whichever occurs first.
  • Page 314 GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials PART NUMBER SIZE 994954 23 in. x 25 in. 1050172 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1050173 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1050174 16 oz. (0.473 L) 1050214 32 oz. (0.946 L) 1050427 23 oz. (0.680 L) 1052918** 8 oz. (0.237 L) 1052925 16 oz.
  • Page 315 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certificates of title and registration.
  • Page 316: Electrical System

    Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Some add on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should.
  • Page 317: Instrument Panel Fuse Block

    Instrument Panel Fuse Block Some fuses are in a fuse block located inside of the glove box behind a small bin on the right side. To open, pull the cover out. The fuse block is inside. On the back edge of this cover is a fuse puller and a fuse usage chart. To use the fuse puller, place the wide end of the fuse puller over the plastic end of the fuse.
  • Page 318 Fuse Description MALL PGM Mall Module MALL Mall Module WIPER Wipers STR WHL Steering Wheel Illumination ILLUM STR WHL Steering Wheel Control CTRL SUNROOF Sunroof RADIO Radio, Antenna RADIO AMP Bose Amplifier PWR LOCK Mall Module HSEAT/LUM Heated Seats, Power Lumbar R DEFOG Rear Defog Retained Accessory Power...
  • Page 319 Fuse Description DIC/HVAC Rear Defog, HVAC, Driver Information Center, Daytime Running Lamps, Heated Seats PWR DROP Power Drop Ignition CANISTER Canister Vent Solenoid VENT Daytime Running Lamps Underhood Electrical Center -- Passenger’s Side Some fuses are in a fuse block on the passenger’s side of the engine compartment.
  • Page 320 Fuse Description Cooling Fan 2 Spare Headlamps Battery Main 2 Ignition Main 1 Cooling Fan 1 Battery Main 1 6-64 Fuse Description Ignition Main 2 Fuel Injections Spare Spare Mass Air Flow (MAF), Heated Sensors, Canister Purge, Boost Solenoid Spare Spare Spare Ignition Module...
  • Page 321 Fuse Description Alt Sense Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Fuel Pump Electronic Control Module/Powertrain Control Module Spare Fog Lamps Horn Chime/Mall Module, Taillamps, Parking Lamps, Sidemarker Lamps, Dimmable Lamps Spare Fuse Fog Lamps Spare Air Conditioning Clutch Diode Relay Description Cooling Fan Cooling Fan 2 Ignition Main Cooling Fan 1...
  • Page 322: Replacement Bulbs

    Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamps ....Back ....... Center High Mounted Stop .
  • Page 323 3100 (Code M) Engine Specifications Type ........Displacement .
  • Page 324: Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

    Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure, ask your dealer. Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Engine Air Cleaner/Filter All Engines .
  • Page 325 Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance. Introduction How this Section is Organized Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Scheduled Maintenance Part B: Owner Checks and Services Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants...
  • Page 326: Introduction

    Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet, or your dealer for details. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment.
  • Page 327: How This Section Is Organized

    How This Section is Organized This maintenance schedule is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services can be complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service department or another qualified service center do these jobs.
  • Page 328: Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services

    Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. 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.
  • Page 329 Scheduled Maintenance 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).
  • Page 330 Scheduled Maintenance 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 331 Scheduled Maintenance 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 332 Scheduled Maintenance 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary.
  • Page 333 Scheduled Maintenance 52,500 Miles (87 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 334 Scheduled Maintenance 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) (Continued) Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor.
  • Page 335 Scheduled Maintenance 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 336 Scheduled Maintenance 97,500 Miles (162 500 km) j Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) j Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 337 Scheduled Maintenance 150,000 Miles (240 000 km) 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.
  • Page 338: Part B: Owner Checks And Services

    Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed in this part are owner checks and services which should be performed at the 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.
  • Page 339: At Least Twice A Year

    At Least Twice a Year 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 belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.
  • Page 340 Starter Switch Check 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.
  • Page 341 Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). The key should come out only in LOCK.
  • Page 342: Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections

    Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed in this part are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your dealer’s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs.
  • Page 343: Throttle System Inspection

    Throttle System Inspection Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding, and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed. Replace any components that have high effort or excessive wear. Do not lubricate accelerator and cruise control cables. Brake System Inspection Inspect the complete system.
  • Page 344: Part D: Recommended Fluids And Lubricants

    Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your dealer. USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Engine Oil Engine Oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol of the proper viscosity.
  • Page 345 USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Supercharger Supercharger Oil (GM Part No. 12345982). See “Supercharger Oil” in the Index. Hood Latch Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol Assembly, (GM Part No. 12346293 or Secondary Latch, equivalent) or lubricant meeting Pivots, Spring requirements of NLGI # 2, Anchor and Category LB or GC Release Pawl USAGE...
  • Page 346: Part E: Maintenance Record

    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 ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY READING 7-22 Services”...
  • Page 347 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-23...
  • Page 348 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-24...
  • Page 349 Section 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Pontiac if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects. Pontiac Cares What Makes Up Pontiac Cares?
  • Page 350: Pontiac Cares

    ... YOU! PONTIAC CARES is: A valuable feature that comes with every Pontiac, a feature that offers a multitude of benefits that can give you safety, security, comfort and convenience.
  • Page 351: What Makes Up Pontiac Cares

    All of these elements combine to make your driving experience an enjoyable one and are discussed in greater detail 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 your ownership experience.
  • Page 352 Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your dealer and to Pontiac. Normally, any concerns with the sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
  • Page 353: Customer Assistance For Text Telephone (Tty) Users

    To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs), Pontiac has TTY equipment available at its Customer Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with Pontiac by dialing: 1 Canada can dial 1...
  • Page 354: All Overseas Locations

    Canada General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 1-800-263-3777 (English) 1-800-263-7854 (French) 1-800-263-3830 (For Text Telephone devices (TTYs)) Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800 All Overseas Locations GMODC Customer Communication Centre 169-007 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 Telephone: 905-644-4112...
  • Page 355: Gm Mobility Program For Persons

    GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities This program, available to qualified applicants, can reimburse you up to $1,000 toward aftermarket driver or passenger adaptive equipment you may require for your vehicle (hand controls, wheelchair/scooter lifts, etc.). This program can also provide you with free resource information, such as area driver assessment centers and mobility equipment installers.
  • Page 356: Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program

    Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program Security While You Travel ROADSIDE (1 3743) As the proud owner of a new Pontiac vehicle, you are automatically enrolled in the Pontiac Roadside Assistance program. This value added service is intended to provide you with peace of mind as you drive in the city or travel the open road.
  • Page 357: Canadian Roadside Assistance

    Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Vehicle license plate number Pontiac reserves the right to limit services or reimbursement to an owner or driver when, in Pontiac’s judgement, the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence. While we hope you never have the occasion to use our service, it is added security while traveling for you and your family.
  • Page 358: Courtesy Transportation

    8-10 Transportation Options Warranty service can generally be completed while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait Pontiac helps minimize your inconvenience by providing several transportation options. Depending on the circumstances, your dealer can offer you one of the following:...
  • Page 359: Warranty Information

    Courtesy Rental Vehicle When your vehicle is unavailable due to overnight warranty repairs, your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental vehicle you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of $30.00 per day supported by receipts.
  • Page 360: Reporting Safety Defects To The United

    REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying General Motors.
  • Page 361: Reporting Safety Defects To General Motors

    In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us. Please call us at 1 CARES, or write: Pontiac-GMC Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 436008 Pontiac, MI 48343-6008 In Canada, please call us at 1 or 1 7854 (French).
  • Page 362 1999 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.)
  • Page 363 ORDER TOLL FREE (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-551-4123 (Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM EST) FAX Orders Only 1-313-865-5927 PUBLICATION FORM PUBLICATION FORM NUMBER NUMBER Service Manual Car & Light Truck Transmission Unit Repair Owner’s Manual In Portfolio Owner’s Manual Without Portfolio NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also the name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent.
  • Page 364 yellowblue NOTES 8-16...
  • Page 365 Section 9 Index ccessory Power Outlet ......On Electrical Equipment ....Air Bag .
  • Page 366 Battery (Continued) ........Warnings BBB Auto Line .
  • Page 367 Outside of Your Vehicle ........... . . Special Problems Stains .
  • Page 368 Door ......Ajar Light Locks ........Drive, Automatic Transaxle .
  • Page 369 Finish Damage ........... . First Gear, Automatic Transaxle Flashers, Hazard Warning .
  • Page 370 nstrument Panel ............Brightness Control Cleaning .
  • Page 371 Traction Control System Warning ......... Trunk Ajar Washer Fluid Low .
  • Page 372 ......Periodic Maintenance Inspections ....Pontiac Cares Information Power Accessory Outlet Door Locks .
  • Page 373 Window Defogger ............Rear Armrest, Storage Rearview Mirror Electrochromic Day/Night...
  • Page 374 Seats ........Heated Manual Front .
  • Page 375 achometer ............Taillamp Bulb Replacement Tape Player Care .
  • Page 376 Transaxle Fluid, Automatic ............Transmitters Matching to Your Vehicle .

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