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Summary of Contents for Pontiac 2001 Sunfire

  • Page 2: Emergency Towing

    Every 2001 Sunfire under warranty is backed with the following services: Courtesy Transportation 1-800-762-3743 1-800-762-3743 For vehicles purchased in Canada, For vehicles purchased in Canada, 1-800-268-6800 ) 1-800-268-6800 ) call call that provides in an emergency: Free lockout assistance Free dead-battery assistance Free out-of-fuel assistance...
  • Page 3 2001 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual Litho in U.S.A. © Copyright General Motors Corporation 2000 Part Number 22628180 A First Edition All Rights Reserved...
  • Page 4 Seats and Seat Controls Section Safety Belts Windows Section Keys and Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) Trunk Release (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle (If Equipped) Manual Transaxle (If Equipped) Parking Brake Tilt Wheel (If Equipped) Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Table of Contents Seats and Restraint Systems Air Bag Systems...
  • Page 5 Heating and Air Conditioning Section Setting the Radio Clock Defensive Driving Section Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Traction Control System Hazard Warning Flashers Section Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Table of Contents (cont'd) Comfort Controls and Audio Systems Radio/Cassette Player/CD Player Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature Your Driving and the Road...
  • Page 6 Fuel Section Checking Fluids and Lubricants Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Brakes Bulb Replacement Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Section Scheduled Maintenance Owner Checks and Services Periodic Maintenance Inspections Table of Contents (cont'd) Service and Appearance Care Tires and Wheels Appearance Care Electrical System/Fuses and Circuit Breakers Capacities and Specifications Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Maintenance Schedule...
  • Page 7 Customer Satisfaction Procedures Section Customer Assistance Offices Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. Section Please refer to the last page of this manual for your Table of Contents (cont'd) Customer Assistance Information Warranty Information (See Warranty Manual)
  • Page 8 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, PONTIAC, the PONTIAC Emblem and the name SUNFIRE 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 after that time without further notice.
  • Page 9: 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 10: Vehicle Damage Warnings

    Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. viii 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 11: Vehicle Symbols

    Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. Also see “Warning Lights and Gages” in the Index. For example, These symbols these symbols are important for are used on an you and your original battery: passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:...
  • Page 12 Service Station Guide Fuel Use unleaded only. Cooling System 2.2L Engine Oil See Section 6 See Section 5 Dipstick for octane ratings. a More Detailed Look at What's Under the Hood See Section 6 Spare Tire Pressure See Section 5 Hood Release See Section 6 Tire Pressure...
  • Page 13: 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 Seat Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many People Ask About...
  • Page 14: Seats And Seat Controls

    Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats them and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seats CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
  • Page 15 If your vehicle is not equipped with easy entry seats, your passenger seat adjuster looks like this. Slide the lever located under the passenger’s seat to the right to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it and release the lever.
  • Page 16: Reclining Front Seatbacks

    Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, lift the lever located on the outboard side of the seat and move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever and push rearward on the seatback to make sure it is locked. Pull up on the lever and the seatback will go to an upright position.
  • Page 17: Head Restraints

    CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body.
  • Page 18 Seatback Latches (2-Door Models) The front seatback folds forward to let people get into the back seat. To fold a front seatback forward, lift the latch located on the lower backside of the seatback. Then the seatback will fold forward. When you return the seatback to its original position, make sure the seatback is locked.
  • Page 19: Rear Seats

    Easy Entry Seat (If Equipped) CAUTION: If an easy entry right front seat isn’t locked, it can move. In a sudden stop or crash, the person sitting there could be injured. After you’ve used it, be sure to push rearward on an easy entry seat to be sure it is locked.
  • Page 20: Safety Belts: They're For Everyone

    To close the seat, push the seatback up to its original position. Check to ensure the seatback is in its original position and securely latched by pulling forward on the top of the seatback. Move any objects in the trunk compartment. Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly.
  • Page 21 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 22: Why Safety Belts Work

    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. 1-10...
  • Page 23 Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... 1-11...
  • Page 24 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. 1-12...
  • Page 25: Here Are Questions Many People Ask About

    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 26: 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 27 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
  • Page 28 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 button and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide.
  • Page 29 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 30 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 31 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 32 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 33: 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 34: 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 35 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. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash.
  • Page 36 How the Air Bag System Works Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. 1-24 The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
  • Page 37 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. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.
  • Page 38 What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.
  • Page 39 In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system.
  • Page 40: Rear Seat Passengers

    Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system.
  • Page 41 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 42 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones.
  • Page 43 The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor. 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.
  • Page 44: Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides For Children

    Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide better positions the belt away from the neck and head.
  • Page 45 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. 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 46: Center Passenger Position

    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. 1-34 To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides.
  • Page 47: Lap Belt

    Lap Belt When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
  • Page 48: Children

    Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
  • Page 49 CAUTION: (Continued) For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240 lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint. CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured...
  • Page 50 What are the different types of add child restraints? on child restraints, which are purchased by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.
  • Page 51 CAUTION: Newborn infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because a newborn infant’s neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear facing seat settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the...
  • Page 52: Restraint Systems For Children

    Restraint Systems for Children An infant car bed (A), a special bed made for use in a motor vehicle, is an infant restraint system designed to restrain or position a child on a continuous flat surface. Make sure that the infant’s head rests toward the center of the vehicle.
  • Page 53 A forward facing child seat (C E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T shaped or shelf A booster seat (F improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some like shields.
  • Page 54: Where To Put The Restraint

    How do child restraints work? A child restraint system is any device designed for use in a motor vehicle to restrain, seat, or position children. A built in child restraint system is a permanent part of the motor vehicle. An add child restraint system is a portable one, which is purchased by the vehicle’s owner.
  • Page 55: Top Strap

    CAUTION: A child in a rear facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear facing child restraint in a rear seat.
  • Page 56 In Canada, the law requires that forward restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Top strap anchors are already installed in your vehicle for the rear seating positions.
  • Page 57: Securing A Child Restraint In A Rear Outside Seat Position

    Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position You’ll be using the lap shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint.
  • Page 58 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-46 4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint.
  • Page 59 Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position You’ll be using the lap belt. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.
  • Page 60: Front Seat Position

    4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-48 5. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint.
  • Page 61 CAUTION: A child in a rear facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear facing child restraint in the rear seat.
  • Page 62 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 1-50 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.
  • Page 63: Older Children

    Older Children Older children who have outgrown booster seats should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a...
  • Page 64 1-52 CAUTION: Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.
  • Page 65 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 66: 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 67 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 68 Windows CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.
  • Page 69: Manual Windows

    Manual Windows On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (If Equipped) With power windows, switches on the center console control each of the power windows when the ignition is on. In addition, on four rear passenger door also has a power window switch.
  • Page 70 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 the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
  • Page 71 If you lose your key, you’ll be able to have a new one made easily using the tag. If you need a new key, contact your Pontiac dealer who can obtain the correct key code. Remember to...
  • Page 72: Door Locks

    Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle won’t open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked.
  • Page 73 Power Door Locks (If Equipped) You can lock or unlock all doors on your vehicle from the driver’s or front passenger’s door lock switch. Push the lower portion of the switch to lock your doors. Push the upper portion of the switch to unlock your doors.
  • Page 74: Leaving Your Vehicle

    To Open a Rear Door With the Security Lock 1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2. Then open the door from the outside. If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door from the inside.
  • Page 75 Remote Keyless Entry (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, 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.
  • Page 76 Operation The following functions are available with the remote keyless entry system: LOCK: All doors will automatically lock when the LOCK button is pressed. In addition, if all doors and the trunk are closed, the headlamps will flash once, the interior lamps will turn off, and the vehicle content theft system will arm.
  • Page 77: Battery Replacement

    Radio Personalization Feature Your vehicle can store different radio preset stations and other settings depending on which keyless entry transmitter you use to unlock the doors with. The radio will recall all the stored settings associated with that transmitter. Any radio setting changes will be assigned to the transmitter last used to unlock the doors.
  • Page 78 Replacing the Battery in the Remote Keyless Entry System Transmitter To replace the battery in the transmitter: 1. Use a coin or flat tip screwdriver to separate the bottom half from the top half of the transmitter. 2. Remove the battery and replace it with the new one. Make sure the positive (+) side of the battery faces down.
  • Page 79 Trunk To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the key and turn the trunk lock cylinder or use the remote keyless entry transmitter (if equipped). When closing the trunk, close from the center to ensure that it is fully secured. CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can...
  • Page 80 Remote Trunk Release (If Equipped) Pull upward on the remote release handle, located on the floor near the left side of the driver’s seat, to release the trunk lid. 2-14 Trunk Release Handle (If Equipped) There is a glow dark trunk release handle located on the inside trunk latch of the vehicle.
  • Page 81 Trap-Resistant Trunk Kit To help prevent a child from becoming trapped in your trunk, you can order a trap resistant trunk kit from your dealer. This kit includes: a modified trunk latch, a lighted release handle, and seatback tethers (for vehicles with folding rear seatbacks).
  • Page 82: Disarming The System

    Content Theft Security System (If Equipped) Arming the System With the ignition off, pressing the transmitter LOCK button will arm the system immediately after all doors and trunk are closed. If the transmitter LOCK button is pressed again within five seconds, the horn will chirp to confirm that the system has been armed.
  • Page 83: How To Turn Off The System Alarm

    How to Turn Off the System Alarm If the system alarm is active, it can be de doing the following: Pressing the transmitter LOCK or PANIC button to turn off alarm. The system will also re doors and trunk are later closed, or Pressing the transmitter UNLOCK or TRUNK button to turn off alarm and disarm the system, or...
  • Page 84: Ignition Positions

    New Vehicle “Break In” NOTICE: Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break 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 85 OFF (C): This position unlocks the steering wheel, ignition and transaxle, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed, but never try to push start your vehicle. A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in OFF and the key is in the ignition.
  • Page 86: Starting Your Engine

    Key Release Button (Manual Transaxle) The ignition key cannot be removed from the ignition unless the key release button is used. To remove the key, the shift lever must first be in REVERSE. Then turn the key to OFF. While pressing the key release button, turn the key to LOCK.
  • Page 87 Starting Your 2.2 Liter L4 Engine 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to...
  • Page 88 Starting Your 2.4 Liter L4 Engine 1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine warms up. NOTICE: Holding your key in START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to...
  • Page 89 Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) 2.4L L4 Engine In very cold weather, 0 _ F ( 18 _ C) or colder, the engine 2.2L L4 Engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm up.
  • Page 90: 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. On a vehicle with a 2.2L L4 engine, the electrical cord is located near the engine oil dipstick. On a vehicle with a 2.4L L4 engine, the electrical cord is located in front of the coolant surge tank on the passenger’s side.
  • Page 91 PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set.
  • Page 92 NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. CAUTION: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing”...
  • Page 93 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 94 SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.
  • Page 95: Manual Transaxle Operation

    Manual Transaxle Operation Five-Speed This is your shift pattern. Here’s how to operate your transaxle: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less than 20 mph (32 km/h).
  • Page 96 Shift Speeds CAUTION: If you skip a gear when you downshift, you could lose control of your vehicle. You could injure yourself or others. Don’t shift down more than one gear at a time when you downshift. 2-30 Shift Light (Manual Transaxle) If you have a manual transaxle, you may have a light.
  • Page 97: Parking Brake

    Parking Brake Manual shown, automatic similar The parking brake lever is located between the bucket seats. To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down and pull up on the parking brake lever. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down.
  • Page 98 Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only) 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 99 Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Only) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire.
  • Page 100: Parking Your Vehicle

    Shifting Out of Park (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index.
  • Page 101: 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 102 Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transaxle) 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.
  • Page 103 Tilt Wheel (If Equipped) 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.
  • Page 104: 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.
  • Page 105: Windshield Wipers

    Windshield Wipers You control the windshield wipers by moving the stalk with the windshield wiper symbol on it up or down. For a single wiper cycle, push the stalk down to MIST, then release it. The wipers will stop after one cycle. For more cycles, hold the wiper stalk down longer.
  • Page 106: Windshield Washer

    Windshield Washer To wash your windshield, pull the stalk with the wiper symbol on it toward you one time. When you release the stalk, the washers will stop. The wipers continue wiping for approximately three cycles and will either stop or will resume the speed you were using before.
  • Page 107 CAUTION: Cruise control can be dangerous where you can’t drive safely at a steady speed. So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control.
  • Page 108 Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake or clutch pedal. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can briefly move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A.
  • Page 109: Exterior Lamps

    Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up a steep hill, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down.
  • Page 110: Lamps On Reminder

    Headlamps This position will turn on the following: Headlamps Parking Lamps Sidemarker Lamps Taillamps Instrument Panel Lights Turn the band rearward to turn the lamps off. Lamps On Reminder If you open the driver’s door with the ignition off and the lamps on, you will hear a warning chime.
  • Page 111 When the DRL are on, your high and low headlamps will be on at a reduced brightness. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t be lit up either. When you turn on the headlamp switch, your high and beam headlamps will go out, and your low headlamps will come on.
  • Page 112: Illuminated Entry

    Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by turning the thumbwheel up or down. Turn the thumbwheel up all the way to turn on the interior courtesy lamps. Illuminated Entry When you open either front door or open a rear door, the lamps inside your vehicle will go on.
  • Page 113: Battery Saver

    Map Lamps (If Equipped) These lamps are located in front of the dome lamp. To turn the lamps on, press the switch. Press the switch again to turn them off. Battery Saver Your vehicle is equipped with a battery saver feature designed to protect your vehicle’s battery.
  • Page 114 Power Remote Control Mirrors (If Equipped) The mirror control is located on the driver’s door. Turn the control clockwise or counterclockwise to choose the mirror you want to adjust. Then move the control in the direction you want the mirror to move. Adjust each mirror so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position.
  • Page 115: Storage Compartments

    Breakaway Mirror If the mirror control lever is unable to operate the mirror adjustment, you can reset the adjustment lever by following these steps: A. Adjustment D. Spring Lever T End E. Adjustment B. Lever Slide Lever Handle C. Mirror 1.
  • Page 116: Ashtrays And Cigarette Lighter

    Center Console Cupholders There are two cupholders located at the front of the center console, in front of the shift lever. There are also cupholders for the rear seat passengers located under the center console lid. Open the center console lid all the way to uncover the rear cupholders.
  • Page 117: Sun Visors

    To clean the center console ashtray, remove the entire ashtray and empty it. The ashtray can be placed in the rear cupholder for the rear seat passengers to use. NOTICE: Don’t put papers and other things that burn into your ashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage.
  • Page 118 The Instrument Panel Your Information System 2-52...
  • Page 119 The main components of your instrument panel are the following: A. Fog Lamp Switch (If Equipped) B. Instrument Panel Intensity Control C. Enhanced Traction System Switch D. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever E. Tachometer F. Hazard Warning Flashers Switch G. Ignition Switch H.
  • Page 120: Instrument Panel Cluster

    Instrument Panel Cluster Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel you’ve used, and many other things you’ll need to know to drive safely and economically. United States cluster shown, Canada similar 2-54...
  • Page 121: Speedometer And Odometer

    Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada).
  • Page 122 Tachometer The tachometer displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute (rpm). NOTICE: Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the red area, or engine damage may occur. 2-56 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle.
  • Page 123: Safety Belt Reminder Light

    Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for about 20 seconds, then it will flash for...
  • Page 124: Brake System Warning Light

    The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem. Charging System Light The charging system light will come on briefly when...
  • Page 125: Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

    If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, have the vehicle towed for service.
  • Page 126: Enhanced Traction System Warning Light

    Enhanced Traction System Warning Light (If Equipped) United States With the Enhanced Traction System (ETS), this warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. If the warning light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your Enhanced Traction System and your vehicle may need service.
  • Page 127: Enhanced Traction System Active Light

    Enhanced Traction System Active Light United States When your Enhanced Traction System is limiting wheel spin, this light will come on. Slippery road conditions may exist if the Enhanced Traction System active light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few seconds after the Enhanced Traction System stops limiting wheel spin.
  • Page 128: Low Coolant Warning Light

    Low Coolant Warning Light If this light comes on and stays on, your system is low on coolant and the engine may overheat. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index and have your vehicle serviced as soon as you can. Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) United States Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors...
  • Page 129 NOTICE: Modifications made to the engine, transaxle, exhaust, intake or fuel system of your vehicle or the replacement of the original tires with other than those of the same Tire Performance Criteria (TPC) can affect your vehicle’s emission controls and may cause the CHECK ENGINE light to come on.
  • Page 130 If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: Reducing vehicle speed. Avoiding hard accelerations. Avoiding steep uphill grades. If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible. If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady”...
  • Page 131 Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See “Fuel” in the Index. Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration.
  • Page 132: Oil Pressure Light

    Oil Pressure Light If you have a low engine oil pressure problem, this light will stay on after you start your engine, or come on when you are driving. This indicates that your engine is not receiving enough oil. The engine could be low on oil, or could have some other oil problem.
  • Page 133: Service Vehicle Soon Light

    Service Vehicle Soon Light This light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition. It will stay on or come on if it detects a problem on the vehicle. If this happens, see your dealers service department as soon as possible. Passlock Warning Light United States...
  • Page 134 Up-Shift Light (Manual Transaxle) This light comes on when you need to shift to the next higher gear. See “Manual Transaxle” in the Index. United States Only 2-68 Check Gages Light United States This light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine.
  • Page 135: Fuel Gage

    Fuel Gage United States Your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left. When the indicator nears empty, the CHECK GAGES light will come on. You still have about 1.5 gallons (5.7 L) of fuel left, but you should get more soon. See “Check Gages Light”...
  • Page 136 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 (If Equipped) Heating Defogging and Defrosting...
  • Page 137: Comfort Controls

    Comfort Controls This section tells you how to make your air system work for you. With these systems, you can control the ventilation and heating in your vehicle. Your vehicle also has the flow through ventilation system described later in this section. Standard Climate Control System Fan Knob The left knob selects the force of air you want.
  • Page 138 Mode Knob The right knob has several settings to control the direction of airflow. For each setting, select the temperature that is comfortable. VENT: This setting brings in outside air and directs it through the instrument panel outlets. LEVEL: This setting brings in outside air and directs it two ways.
  • Page 139 Temperature Knob The center knob changes the temperature of the air coming through the system. Turn this knob toward red (clockwise) for warmer air. Turn it toward blue (counterclockwise) for cooler air. Mode Knob The right knob has several settings to control the direction of airflow.
  • Page 140 Air Conditioning Compressor Button Press the A/C button to operate the air conditioner compressor. The indicator light above the button will glow when the air conditioning compressor is running. You don’t have to press the button to run the compressor in max or defrost.
  • Page 141: Defogging And Defrosting

    Defogging and Defrosting Your system has two settings for clearing the front and side windows. To defrost the windows quickly, use defrost with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. To warm passengers while keeping the windows clean, use defog.
  • Page 142: Ventilation System

    If you turn it on again, the defogger will only run for about five minutes before turning off. You can also turn it off by pressing the button again. Do not attach a temporary vehicle license across the defogger grid on the rear window. NOTICE: Don’t use a razor blade or anything else sharp on the inside of the rear window.
  • Page 143: Audio Systems

    Ventilation Tips Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction, such as leaves. The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, adjust the mode knob to floor and the fan to the highest speed for a few moments before driving off.
  • Page 144 AM-FM Stereo Playing the Radio PWR VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RCL: Press this knob to recall the station being played or to display the clock.
  • Page 145 PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM FM to select the band. 3.
  • Page 146 Adjusting the Speakers BALANCE: Press and release AUDIO until BAL appears on the display. Then press and hold the up arrow to move the sound to the right speakers or the down arrow to move the sound to the left speakers. “R” and a number will appear on the display when the sound is balanced toward the right speakers.
  • Page 147 AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped) Playing the Radio PWR VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RCL: Press this knob to recall the station being played, to recall if the tape player is active, or to display the clock.
  • Page 148 PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM FM to select the band. 3.
  • Page 149 Adjusting the Speakers BALANCE: Press and release AUDIO until BAL appears on the display. Then press and hold the up arrow to move the sound to the right speakers or the down arrow to move the sound to the left speakers. “R” and a number will appear on the display when the sound is balanced toward the right speakers.
  • Page 150 If the player detects a tight or broken tape, ERR (error) will appear on the display and the player will eject the tape. The radio will go back to playing the last station selected. If you want to insert a tape when the ignition is off, first press the eject button or the RCL knob.
  • Page 151 RPT (6): Press this button once to hear a selection over again. RPT will appear on the display. The current selection will continue to repeat. RPT will flash on the display while the cassette player is searching for the start of the selection. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for RPT to work.
  • Page 152 AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player with Programmable Equalization and Radio Data System (RDS) (If Equipped) If your vehicle is equipped with the Monsoon AM Stereo RDS with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer, included are eight (coupe only) high performance speakers and a powerful eight channel amplifier.
  • Page 153 SCAN: Press and hold one of the SEEK arrows for two seconds until the SCAN icon appears on the display and you hear a beep. Use SCAN to listen to stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to a station, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next station.
  • Page 154 EQ: This feature allows you to choose preset bass, mid and treble equalization settings designed for different individual listening tastes. Press EQ to select the desired preset equalization setting. Each time you press EQ, another setting will appear on the display. You can preset up to six equalization settings by performing the following steps: 1.
  • Page 155 TRAF: Press this button to receive traffic announcements. The traffic announcement brackets will appear on the display. TRAF will appear on the display if the tuned station broadcasts traffic announcements. If the current tuned station does not broadcast traffic announcements, the radio will seek to a station that does.
  • Page 156 PROG TYPE: This button is used to turn on and off Program Type (PTY) select. The P appear on the display and the SELECT LED indicator next to the SELECT knob will light. The last selected PTY will appear on the display for five seconds. Turn the SELECT knob to select the PTY you want to listen to.
  • Page 157 This function will only work during actual emergency broadcasts, and will not work during tests of the emergency broadcast system. This feature is not supported by all RDS stations. ALTERNATE FREQUENCY: This RDS feature allows the radio to switch frequencies to the best quality station with the same programming.
  • Page 158 "" (1): Press and hold this button to advance quickly within a track. Release it to play the passage. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. RDM (3): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order.
  • Page 159 CD AUX: With a compact disc in the player and the radio playing, press this button to play a compact disc. Press AM FM to return to the radio when a compact disc is playing. The inactive CD will remain safely inside the radio for future listening.
  • Page 160 Playing the Radio PWR VOL: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. SCV: Your system has a feature called Speed Compensated Volume (SCV). With SCV, your audio system adjusts automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive.
  • Page 161 PRESET SCAN: Press and hold one of the SEEK arrows for more than four seconds until the PSCAN icon and the preset number appear on the display. You will hear a double beep. Use PRESET SCAN to listen to each of your preset stations for a few seconds. The radio will go to the first preset station stored on your pushbuttons, stop for a few seconds, then go on to the next preset station.
  • Page 162 Using RDS Your audio system is equipped with a Radio Data System (RDS). RDS is a system that sends data along with the audio of the FM station you are currently tuned to. You can use RDS to display program information and to control your radio.
  • Page 163 When a traffic announcement comes on the tuned radio station or a related network station, you will hear it, even if the volume is muted or a compact disc or cassette tape is playing. If the compact disc player or cassette tape player was being used, the compact disc or cassette will stay in the player and resume play at the point where it stopped.
  • Page 164 PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite Program Types (PTYs). These buttons have factory PTY presets. You can set up to 12 PTYs (six FM1 and six FM2) by performing the following steps: 1. Press AM FM to select FM1 or FM2. 2.
  • Page 165 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.
  • Page 166 (2): Press this button to play the other side of the tape. (4): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last selected station while the tape reverses. You may select stations during REV operation by using TUNE.
  • Page 167 CLEAN PLAYER: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLEAN PLAYER indicator.
  • Page 168 (4): Press and hold this button to reverse quickly within a track. Release it to play the passage. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. EQ: Press EQ to select the desired preset equalization setting while playing a compact disc.
  • Page 169: Personal Choice Radio Controls

    Radio Calibration Your audio system has been calibrated for your vehicle from the factory. If CALIBRATE appears on the display it means that your radio has not been configured properly for your vehicle and must be returned to the dealership for service. Personal Choice Radio Controls (If Equipped) With this feature, your vehicle will recall the latest radio...
  • Page 170: 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 171: 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 172 If your vehicle is equipped with the AM Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player with Radio Data System and Programmable Equalization: 1. Turn the ignition to RUN or ACCESSORY. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press and hold the CD TAPE button for five seconds.
  • Page 173: Fixed Mast Antenna

    Care of Your Compact Disc Player The use of CD lens cleaner discs is not advised, due to the risk of contaminating the lens of the CD optics with lubricants internal to the CD mechanism. Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged.
  • Page 174 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 Enhanced Traction System Steering...
  • Page 175: 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 176: 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 177 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 178 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 179: Control Of A Vehicle

    Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. 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.
  • Page 180: Anti-Lock Brakes (Abs)

    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 181 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 and continue braking. 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 wheel.
  • Page 182: Enhanced Traction System

    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 183 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. United States When the system is on and the parking brake is fully released, this warning light will come on to let you...
  • Page 184: Power 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. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control”...
  • Page 185: Steering In Emergencies

    Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you.
  • Page 186: 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 187 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 188: 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 189: 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. 4-16 Here are some tips on night driving. Drive defensively.
  • Page 190: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads

    Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you’re driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lot of things invisible. You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps.
  • Page 191 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 192: Driving Through Flowing Water

    Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But it can if your tires do not have much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple”...
  • Page 193: City Driving

    City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. 4-20 Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are going.
  • Page 194: Freeway Driving

    Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving.
  • Page 195: 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. 4-22...
  • Page 196: Highway Hypnosis

    Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
  • Page 197: Hill And Mountain Roads

    Hill and Mountain Roads Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain. 4-24 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 198 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 199: Driving On Snow Or Ice

    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. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to help provide traction.
  • Page 200 What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about freezing (32 F;...
  • Page 201 If You’re Caught in a Blizzard If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers.
  • Page 202: Recreational Vehicle Towing

    CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. You can’t see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe.
  • Page 203: Speed Automatic Transaxle

    Towing Your Vehicle from the Front 3-Speed Automatic Transaxle (With a Dolly) You may tow your vehicle using a towing dolly if you have a three speed automatic transaxle. Follow these steps: 4-30 1. Put the front wheels on a dolly. 2.
  • Page 204 Towing Your Vehicle From the Front 4-Speed Automatic and 5-Speed Manual Transaxles (Without a Dolly) You may tow your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground if you have a four speed automatic or a five speed manual transaxle. Follow these steps: 1.
  • Page 205: Loading Your Vehicle

    Towing Your Vehicle from the Rear (All Transaxles) NOTICE: Do not tow your vehicle from the rear. Your vehicle could be badly damaged and the repairs would not be covered by your warranty. 4-32 Loading Your Vehicle Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry.
  • Page 206 The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle.
  • Page 207 CAUTION: Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a trunk, put them as far forward as you can. Try to spread the weight evenly.
  • Page 208: If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer

    Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with a 2.4L L4 engine and four speed automatic transaxle and the proper trailer towing equipment. If your vehicle is not equipped as stated above, do not tow a trailer. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer”...
  • Page 209: Weight Of The Trailer

    And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle. 4-36 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 33172 Detroit, Michigan 48232 5172...
  • Page 210 If you’re using a weight carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a weight hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper.
  • Page 211: Driving With A Trailer

    Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer.
  • Page 212: Following Distance

    Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer.
  • Page 213: 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 214: Parking On Hills

    Parking on Hills CAUTION: You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1.
  • Page 215: Maintenance When Trailer Towing

    Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transaxle fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, drive belt, cooling system and brake system. Each of these is covered in this manual, and the Index will help you find them quickly.
  • Page 216 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 217: 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. Move the switch to the right to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.
  • Page 218: 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 below to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain acid that can burn you.
  • Page 219 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 220 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. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the ACDelco installed in every new GM vehicle.
  • Page 221 7. Remove the red plastic cap, and connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 8. Don’t let the other end touch metal.
  • Page 222 Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative ( go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery. 10.
  • Page 223: Towing Your Vehicle

    Jumper Cable Removal A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1. Disconnect the black negative ( heavy, unpainted engine part on the vehicle that had the dead battery.
  • Page 224: Engine Overheating

    Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage and a low coolant warning light on your vehicle’s instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Low Coolant Warning Light” in the Index. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood.
  • Page 225: 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 226: Cooling System

    Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 2.2L L4 Engine A. Coolant Surge Tank with Pressure Cap B. Electric Engine Cooling Fan 2.4L L4 Engine A. Coolant Surge Tank with Pressure Cap B.
  • Page 227 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 surge tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
  • Page 228 CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned.
  • Page 229 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX COOL coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it.
  • Page 230 CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning.
  • Page 231 1. You can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise (left) about two or two and half turns.
  • Page 232 3. Then fill the coolant surge tank with the proper 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the mixture, to the FULL COLD mark. engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fan.
  • Page 233: If A Tire Goes Flat

    5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the pressure cap is hand Check the level in the surge tank when the cooling system has cooled down. If the coolant isn’t at the proper level, repeat Steps 1 to 3 and reinstall the pressure cap or see your dealer.
  • Page 234: 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 235 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. 1. Turn the center retainer nut on the compact spare cover counterclockwise to remove it. 5-20 2. Lift and remove the tire cover. See “Compact Spare Tire”...
  • Page 236 3. Turn the wing bolt counterclockwise and remove it. Then lift off the adapter and remove the compact spare tire. 4. Your vehicle’s jack and wheel wrench are stored in a foam tray. Remove the jack and the wheel wrench from the trunk.
  • Page 237: Spare Tire

    Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. If your vehicle is equipped with wheel covers, use the wheel wrench to begin loosening the plastic wheel nut caps. Once you have loosened the plastic wheel nut caps with the wheel wrench you can finish loosening them with your fingers.
  • Page 238 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 239 6. 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 240 10. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence, as shown. 9. Lower the vehicle by turning the wheel jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. 5-25...
  • Page 241 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 242 Storing the Flat Tire and Tools CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. A.
  • Page 243 Storing the Spare Tire and Tools CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. The compact spare tire is for temporary use only.
  • Page 244: Compact Spare Tire

    Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.
  • Page 245: If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice Or Snow

    If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will need to spin the wheels, but you don’t want to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.
  • Page 246 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 247: 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 248 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 249 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 250: Fuels In Foreign Countries

    NOTICE: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find.
  • Page 251 While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door by placing the fuel cap tether in the strap hanger. To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has a spring in it; if you let go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.
  • Page 252: Filling A Portable Fuel Container

    When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed.
  • Page 253 Checking Things Under the Hood CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire.
  • Page 254 Then go to the front of the vehicle and lift up on the secondary hood release lever. The secondary hood release lever is located near the front center of the hood toward the driver’s side. To make sure that the secondary hood release handle works properly, lubricate the hood latch at least once a year.
  • Page 255: Engine Compartment Overview

    Engine Compartment Overview When you open up the hood on the 2.2L L4 engine (Code 4) you’ll see: A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir C. Engine Oil Fill Cap/Dipstick D. Brake Fluid Reservoir 6-10 E. Clutch Master Cylinder Reservoir (If Equipped) F.
  • Page 256 When you open up your hood on the 2.4L L4 engine (Code T) you’ll see: A. Coolant Surge Tank B. Engine Oil Fill Cap C. Engine Oil Dipstick D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E. Brake Fluid Reservoir F. Clutch Master Cylinder Reservoir (If Equipped) G.
  • Page 257: Engine Oil

    Engine Oil If the oil pressure light appears on the instrument panel, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see “Oil Pressure Light” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder.
  • Page 258: When To Add Engine Oil

    2.4L L4 Engine Check the oil here if you have a 2.4L engine. The dipstick’s handle will be a yellow ring. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan.
  • Page 259 NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the upper mark that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged. This is where you add oil if you have a 2.2L L4 engine. See “Engine Compartment Overview”...
  • Page 260: 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 261: Engine Oil Additives

    As in the chart shown previously, SAE 5W your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W going to be 0 C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines...
  • Page 262: What To Do With Used Oil

    What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner.
  • Page 263 To check or replace the filter, remove the screws that hold the cover on and lift off the cover. Be sure to reinstall the cover tightly. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. 6-18 CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter...
  • Page 264: Automatic Transaxle Fluid

    Automatic Transaxle Fluid (Three Speed Only) 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 265 Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range.
  • Page 266: How To Add Fluid

    3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way. How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use.
  • Page 267: Manual Transaxle Fluid

    Automatic Transaxle Fluid (Four Speed Only) It is not necessary to check the transaxle fluid level. A transaxle fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealership service department and have it repaired as soon as possible. You may also have your fluid level checked by your dealer or service center when you have your oil changed.
  • Page 268: Hydraulic Clutch

    Hydraulic Clutch The hydraulic clutch linkage in your vehicle is self adjusting. The clutch master cylinder reservoir is filled with hydraulic clutch fluid. It is not necessary to regularly check clutch fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system. Adding fluid won’t correct a leak.
  • Page 269: Engine Coolant

    How to Check and Add Fluid You do not need to check the fluid level unless you suspect a clutch problem. To check the fluid level, take the cap off. If the fluid reaches the step inside the reservoir, the fluid level is correct. The reservoir is located near the back of the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle.
  • Page 270 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 271: Checking Coolant

    Checking Coolant The surge tank is located on the passenger’s side of the engine compartment. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. 6-26 CAUTION: Turning the surge tank pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly.
  • Page 272: Power Steering Fluid

    Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX coolant mixture at the surge tank, but only when the engine is cool. 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 273: Windshield Washer Fluid

    When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
  • Page 274: Adding Washer Fluid

    Adding Washer Fluid Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.
  • Page 275: Brake Fluid

    Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver’s side of the engine compartment. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index. It is filled with 3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down.
  • Page 276 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 277: Brake Wear

    Brake Wear Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum 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 278: Brake Adjustment

    Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc brakes adjust for wear.
  • Page 279 Battery Your new vehicle comes with a maintenance free ACDelco battery. When it’s time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelco battery. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for battery location.
  • Page 280: Bulb Replacement

    The following procedure tells you how to replace the bulbs for your vehicle. For the type of bulb to use, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your Pontiac dealer’s service department. Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb.
  • Page 281 2. Remove the bolts that anchor the headlamp assembly. Pull the headlamp assembly toward the front of the vehicle to access the bulb assembly. 3. Twist the bulb retainer one eighth of a turn counterclockwise and pull the bulb assembly out. 6-36 4.
  • Page 282 Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL) (Models Without a Spoiler) To change the bulb, do the following: 1. Open the trunk and view the access hole under the rear shelf. 2. Remove the bulb socket by twisting it in either direction, then pull down. 3.
  • Page 283 3. To remove the bulb, pull it out of the assembly. 4. Push in a new bulb. 5. Reverse Steps 1 and 2 to reinstall the taillamp assembly. 6-38 Back-Up Lamps If you have a four door sedan, do the following to replace a back up lamp: 1.
  • Page 284: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

    Dome Lamp without Integral Reading Lamps To replace a bulb, do the following: 1. From the rear of the dome lamp lens, insert a screwdriver blade between the roof trim and the lens. 2. With the screwdriver, push the tab at the rear of the lens forward to release the lens.
  • Page 285 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 286 Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire Loading Information label, which is on the rear edge of the driver’s door, 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 287: 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 288 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 289: Buying New Tires

    Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number.
  • Page 290: Uniform Tire Quality Grading

    Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance.
  • Page 291: Wheel Replacement

    Temperature A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
  • Page 292 Each new wheel should have the same load capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts.
  • Page 293: Tire Chains

    Tire Chains NOTICE: If your vehicle has P195/65R15 or P205/55R16 size tires, don’t use tire chains. They can damage your vehicle because there’s not enough clearance. Use another type of traction device only if its manufacturer recommends it for use on your vehicle and tire size combination and road conditions.
  • Page 294: Cleaning The Inside Of Your Vehicle

    Never use these to clean your vehicle: Gasoline Benzene Naphtha Carbon Tetrachloride Acetone Paint Thinner Turpentine Lacquer Thinner Nail Polish Remover They can all be hazardous some more than others and they can all damage your vehicle, too. Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these will damage your vehicle: Alcohol Laundry Soap...
  • Page 295: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems

    Using Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner on Fabric 1. Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. 2. Always clean a whole trim panel or section. Mask surrounding trim along stitch or welt lines. 3. Mix powdered cleaner following the directions on the container label to form thick suds.
  • Page 296: 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 297: Cleaning The Outside Of Your Vehicle

    Cleaning the Outside of the Windshield and Wiper Blades If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running, wax, sap or other material may be on the blade or windshield. Clean the outside of the windshield with GM Windshield Cleaner, Bon Ami Powder (non...
  • Page 298: Finish Care

    Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under “Washing Your Vehicle.” Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish.
  • Page 299: Cleaning Aluminum Wheels

    Cleaning Aluminum Wheels (If Equipped) Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then be applied. The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted surface of your vehicle.
  • Page 300: Chemical Paint Spotting

    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 301 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 302: Engine Identification

    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 303: 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 304: Fuses And Circuit Breakers

    Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses, circuit breakers and fusible thermal links. This greatly reduces the chance of damage caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver colored band inside the fuse.
  • Page 305 Fuse Usage TURN Turn Signals, Back ERLS Cruise Control, Engine Controls BCM/CLU Body Control Module, Instrument Panel Cluster Powertrain Control Module IGN MDL Ignition Module Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors 6-60 Fuse AIR BG CRUISE Blank RFA BATT MIRROR LT HDLP RDO/INTLP RT HDLP CLSTR...
  • Page 306: Engine Compartment Fuse Block

    Fuse Usage Blank Not Used STOP/HZD Stop Lamps, Hazard Lamps Blank Not Used Blank Not Used RR DEFOG Rear Window Defogger PWR ACC Power Door Locks Blank Not Used Blank Not Used Blank Not Used Sensor Heater HVAC Climate Control System WIPER Windshield Wiper Body Control Module...
  • Page 307: Replacement Bulbs

    Fuse Usage Ignition Switch Circuits BATT 1 Exterior Lamps, Power Outlet, Horn, Audio Amplifier BATT 2 Rear Defogger, Power Locks, Stoplamps Anti Lock Brake System COOLING FAN Engine Cooling Fan PCM/HVAC Powertrain Control Module, Heater and A/C Blower Heater and A/C Blower 6-62 Fuse Usage...
  • Page 308: Capacities And Specifications

    Capacities and Specifications The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. Please refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index for more information. Engine Crankcase ... . Automatic Transaxle (3 Speed) After Complete Overhaul...
  • Page 309: Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

    Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 2.2L ....ACDelco 2.4L ....ACDelco Engine Oil Filter 2.2L...
  • Page 310 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 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance Part B: Owner Checks and Services Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants...
  • Page 311: 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 312: 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 313: 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 314: Scheduled Maintenance

    Scheduled Maintenance Short Trip/City Definition Follow the Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance if any one of these conditions is true for your vehicle: Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing.
  • Page 315 Scheduled Maintenance Long Trip/Highway Definition Follow this scheduled maintenance only if none of the conditions from the Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance are true. Do not use this schedule if the vehicle is used for trailer towing, driven in a dusty area or used off paved roads.
  • Page 316: Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance

    Short Trip/City 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 317 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 3,000 Miles (5 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 318 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 12,000 Miles (20 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 319 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 21,000 Miles (35 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 320 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 321 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 39,000 Miles (65 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 42,000 Miles (70 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 322 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 48,000 Miles (80 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 323 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 54,000 Miles (90 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 324 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 325 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 66,000 Miles (110 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 326 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Inspect engine air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 327 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 328 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 93,000 Miles (155 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 96,000 Miles (160 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 329 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) Inspect spark plug wires (except 2.4L Code T L4 engine). An Emission Control Service. Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: –...
  • Page 330: Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance

    Long Trip/Highway 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 331 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 332 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 22,500 Miles (37 500 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 333 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 37,500 Miles (62 500 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 334 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90 _ F (32 _ C) or higher. –...
  • Page 335 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 336 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 337 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service.
  • Page 338 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) Inspect spark plug wires (except 2.4L Code T L4 engine). An Emission Control Service. Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: –...
  • Page 339: 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 340: 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 341 At Least Once a Year Key Lock Cylinders Service Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant specified in Part D. Body Lubrication Service Lubricate all hood latch assemblies, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release pawl, hood and body door hinges, rear compartment and any folding seat hardware.
  • Page 342 Automatic Transaxle Shift Lock Control System 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.
  • Page 343 Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Mechanism Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others could be injured and property could be damaged. Make sure there is room in front of your vehicle in case it begins to roll.
  • Page 344: 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 345: Brake System Inspection

    Brake System Inspection Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.
  • Page 346: 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 347 USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Manual Chassis Lubricant (GM Part Transaxle No. 12377985 or equivalent) or Shift Linkage lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2, Category LB or GC Clutch Linkage Engine oil. Pivot Points Chassis Chassis Lubricant (GM Part Lubrication No. 12377985 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2, Category LB or GC...
  • Page 348: 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 Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Your owner information portfolio is a convenient place to store them.
  • Page 349 Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-40...
  • Page 350 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 351: 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 352: 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 353 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 354: Customer Assistance For Text Telephone

    (TTY users in Canada can dial 1 Customer Assistance Offices Pontiac encourages customers to call the toll-free number free telephone for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes to write to Pontiac, the letter should be addressed to Pontiac’s Customer Assistance Center. United States Pontiac-GMC Customer Assistance Center P.O.
  • Page 355 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 Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U.S.
  • Page 356: Gm Mobility Program For Persons With Disabilities

    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 357: 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 358: 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 359: Courtesy Transportation

    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,...
  • Page 360: 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 361: 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 362: 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 1–800–762-2737, or write: Pontiac-GMC Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33172 Detroit, MI 48232-5172 In Canada, please call us at 1 or 1 7854 (French).
  • Page 363 2001 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 364 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.

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