Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode - Pontiac Grand Prix 2007 Owner's Manual

If an overheat warning occurs without any sign of
steam, try this for a minute or so:
1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in
NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to
do so, pull off the road, shift to PARK (P)
or NEUTRAL (N) and let the engine idle.
2. Set the heater at the highest setting and the
fan at the highest speed and open the
windows as necessary.
If the overheat warning no longer exists, the
vehicle can be driven. Just to be safe, drive slower
for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not
come back on, the vehicle can be driven normally.
If the warning continues, and you have not stopped,
pull over, stop, and park the vehicle right away.
If there is still no sign of steam, idle the engine
for three minutes while parked. If the warning
is still there, turn off the engine and get everyone
out of the vehicle until it cools down. Also, see

"Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode"

later in this section.
You may decide not to lift the hood but to get
service help right away.
Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
The overheated engine protection operating mode
allows the vehicle to be driven to a safe place
in an emergency situation. If an overheated engine
condition exists, this protection mode alternates
firing groups of cylinders to help prevent
engine damage. In this mode, there will be a
significant loss in power and engine performance.
The engine coolant temperature gage indicator
will move to the shaded area, and the engine
coolant temperature warning light will come on,
showing that an overheated engine condition
exists. Driving extended miles (km) and/or towing
a trailer in the overheated engine protection
mode should be avoided.
Notice: After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, to avoid engine
damage, allow the engine to cool before
attempting any repair. The engine oil will be
severely degraded. Repair the cause of coolant
loss, change the oil and reset the oil life
system. See Engine Oil on page 356.
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