Every 2001 Grand Prix 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...
Seats and Seat Controls Section Safety Belts Windows Section Keys and Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) Remote Trunk Release (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Parking Brake Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Windshield Wipers Cruise Control (If Equipped) Table of Contents Seats and Restraint Systems Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) Restraint Systems for Children...
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Heating and Air Conditioning Section Setting the Radio Clock Radio/Cassette Player/CD Player Defensive Driving Section Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Hazard Warning Flashers Section Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle Table of Contents (cont'd) Comfort Controls and Audio Systems Radio Theft-Deterrent Feature Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped) Your Driving and the Road...
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Fuel Section Checking Fluids and Lubricants GM Oil Life System™ Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Brakes Bulb Replacement Section Scheduled Maintenance Owner Checks and Services Periodic Maintenance Inspections Table of Contents (cont'd) Service and Appearance Care Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Tires and Wheels Appearance Care Electrical System/Fuses and Circuit Breakers Capacities and Specifications...
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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)
For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Pontiac Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your vehicle, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road.
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.
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.
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:...
Service Station Guide Windshield Washer Fluid Cooling System Tire Pressure See Section 6 Battery See Section 5 a More See Section 6 See Section 6 Detailed Look at What's Under the Hood See Section 6 Spare Tire Pressure See Section 5 Hood Release See Section 6 Engine Oil Dipstick...
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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Controls Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many People Ask...
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you how to adjust the seats and explains reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
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6-Way Power Driver’s Seat (If Equipped) This switch is designed to control the movements of your seat cushion. It is located on the outboard side of the driver’s seat cushion. To move the seat forward or rearward, slide the switch forward or rearward.
Heated Seat (Option) If your vehicle has this feature, the heated seat switch is located on the center console, behind the open storage bin. Press LO to warm the seat to a lower temperature. Press HI to warm the seat to a higher temperature. To turn this feature off, place the switch in the center position.
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But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. 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.
Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. Seatback Latches (2-Door Models) On two door models, the front passenger seat is designed to make it easy to get into and out of the rear...
After someone gets into the rear seat area, move the passenger front seatback to its original position. Then move the seat rearward until it locks. To get out, tilt the seatback fully forward and slide the seat forward out of the way. CAUTION: If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash.
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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.
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.
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Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop. 1-10 The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
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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. 1-11...
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.
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.”...
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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.
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Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (4 Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. Door Models) To move it down, squeeze the release lever and the shoulder belt guide as shown and move the height adjuster to the desired position.
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What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. 1-16 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.
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What’s wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place. 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.
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What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. 1-18 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.
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What’s wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body. 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.
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.
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.
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your vehicle has air bags one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Frontal air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of injury from the force of an inflating air bag.
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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.
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.
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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.
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How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the system commands air bag inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment.
Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash.
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If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
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The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.
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.
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2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 1-32 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
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4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides.
Center Passenger Position 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. 1-34...
To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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CAUTION: People should never hold a baby in their arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it. CAUTION: (Continued) 1-36 CAUTION: (Continued) For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h),...
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CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. Air bags plus lap shoulder belts offer outstanding protection for adults and older children, but not for young children and infants. Neither the vehicle’s safety belt system nor its air bag system is designed for them.
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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...
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.
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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 1-40 A booster seat (F improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some like shields.
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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.
Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. General Motors, therefore, recommends that child restraints be secured in the rear seat including an infant riding in a rear facing infant seat, a child riding in a forward...
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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. Your vehicle has top strap anchors already installed for the rear seating positions.
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.
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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. 4. Some vehicles have a child restraint locking feature on the shoulder belt retractor. You can tell if your vehicle has this feature by pulling the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor.
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1-46 If your vehicle has the child restraint locking feature on the shoulder belt retractor, pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.
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.
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.
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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.
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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. 1-50 5. Some vehicles have a child restraint locking feature on the shoulder belt retractor. You can tell if your vehicle has this feature by pulling the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor.
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Four Door Models 1-52 If your vehicle has the child restraint locking feature on the shoulder belt retractor, pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.
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6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
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. 1-54 What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a...
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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. What if a child is wearing a lap but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?
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1-56 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.
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.
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.
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.
Power Windows Switches on the driver’s door armrest operate each of the windows when the ignition or retained accessory power (RAP) is active. See “Retained Accessory Power (RAP)” in the Index. In addition, each passenger door has its own window switch. Express Down Window The driver’s window switch has an auto...
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.
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III key must be programmed before it will start your vehicle. See “PASS in the Index for more information on programming your new key. In an emergency, contact Pontiac Roadside Assistance. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index for more information. NOTICE: Your vehicle has a number of features that can help prevent theft.
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.
Power Door Locks To unlock all doors from inside the vehicle, press the front of the power door lock switch on either front door. If your vehicle is equipped with a content theft system, the power door lock switch will not unlock the doors until the system is disarmed.
Automatic Door Locks All of the doors will lock automatically when you move your shift lever out of PARK (P). All doors will unlock automatically when the ignition is turned off while the shift lever is in PARK (P). If you prefer to have your doors unlocked automatically at any time, see “Locks and Lighting Choices”...
The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from inside the vehicle when this feature is in use. If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on, unlock the door from the inside and then open the door from the outside.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does not work or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: Check the distance.
Remote All Door Lock To lock all the doors, press LOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter. (See “Power Door Locks” in the Index for more details on power door lock features). If your vehicle is equipped with the content theft system, the LOCK button may arm the system.
Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about three years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.
Multifunction Alarm Locks and Lighting Choices Your vehicle’s locks and lighting systems can be programmed with several different features. The features you can program depend on the options that came with your vehicle. The following chart shows the features that can be programmed.
Entering Programming Mode To program features, your vehicle must be in this programming mode. Follow these steps: 1. Turn the ignition key to LOCK or OFF. 2. Remove the MALL PGM fuse from the instrument panel fuse block. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.
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When your vehicle was shipped from the factory, it was programmed to Mode 4. The mode to which your vehicle was programmed may have been changed since it left the factory. To determine the mode to which your vehicle is programmed or to program your vehicle to a different mode, do the following: 1.
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Mode 3: Automatic Unlocking with the Ignition Off Automatic Door Unlocking: Turn off the ignition with the transaxle in PARK (P) and all doors will unlock automatically. Automatic Door Locking: Shift out of PARK (P) with the ignition on and the driver’s door closed and all doors will lock automatically.
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Last Door Closed Locking and Lockout Prevention With the last door closed locking and lockout prevention features, your vehicle will do the following: If you leave your key in the ignition and leave the driver’s door open, you won’t be able to power lock the doors.
4. Press UNLOCK again to change the current mode. 5. Repeat Step 4 until you hear the number of chimes that matches the mode you want. The mode you selected is now set. You can either exit the programming mode by following the instructions earlier in this section or program the next feature available on your vehicle.
4. Press UNLOCK on the remote keyless entry transmitter again to change the current mode. 5. Repeat Step 4 until you hear the number of chimes that matches the mode you want. The mode you selected is now set. You can either exit the programming mode by following the instructions earlier in this section or program the next feature available on your vehicle.
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Mode 4: Exterior Lamps and Horn Sound (on second LOCK press only) Remote Lock Confirmation: When you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to lock the vehicle, the headlamps will flash to let you know the command is received. The horn will sound briefly and the headlamps will flash if you press the LOCK button again within five seconds.
Content Theft-Deterrent System (If Equipped) Your vehicle may be equipped with a content theft deterrent alarm system. Once armed, the system will go off if someone tries to enter the vehicle without using the remote keyless entry transmitter or the correct key, or when someone turns the ignition on with an incorrect key.
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Arming and Disarming the Content Theft-Deterrent System (If Equipped) To arm and disarm the content theft the system must be turned on by using Mode 2 listed previously in this section under “Content Theft Deterrent System.” With the arming and disarming feature, you can do the following: Arm the system when you lock the doors using either power door lock switch while any door is open and...
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Mode 3: Standard Arming and Disarming The content theft deterrent system will arm when you lock the doors using either power door lock switch while any door is open and the key is removed from the ignition. The content theft deterrent system will arm when you lock the doors with your remote keyless entry transmitter.
Trunk CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid:...
Trunk Release Handle (If Equipped) NOTICE: The trunk release handle was not designed to be used to tie down the trunk lid or as an anchor point when securing items in the trunk. Improper use of the trunk release handle could damage it. There is a glow dark trunk release handle located inside the trunk on the latch.
Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves...
Content Theft Deterrent (If Equipped) The vehicle may have a theft deterrent alarm system. A red light located on top of the instrument panel (toward the center of the vehicle, near the windshield) will flash slowly when the system is armed. While armed, the doors will not unlock with the power door lock switch.
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Arming with the Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter The alarm system will arm when you use the remote keyless entry transmitter to lock the doors after the key is removed from the ignition. The red light will turn on to let you know the system is arming. After all doors are closed and locked, the red light will begin flashing at a very slow rate to let you know the system is armed.
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If your vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty. See your dealer who can service the PASS have a new key made. In an emergency, contact Pontiac Roadside Assistance. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index for more information.
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To program the new key do the following: 1. Verify that the new key has “PK3” stamped on it. 2. Insert the master key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer for service.
Ignition Positions The ignition switch is located on the right side of the steering column. With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five positions. ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things like the radio and windshield wipers when the engine is off.
START (E): This position starts the engine. A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in OFF, LOCK or ACCESSORY and the key is in the ignition. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) With retained accessory power, the power windows, audio system and sunroof will continue to work up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to OFF and none of the doors are opened.
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The override access slot is located on the upper right side of the console shift panel. To use the slot do the following: 1. Verify that the shift lever is in PARK (P) and that the shift lever button is fully released. 2.
2. If your engine won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for not more than 15 seconds at a time.
3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord is located below the engine air cleaner/filter near the coolant reservoir bottle. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location.
Automatic Transaxle Operation The automatic transaxle has a shift lever on the console between the seats. There is also a display of the gear positions on the instrument panel cluster near the speedometer and tachometer. Maximum engine speed is limited when your vehicle is in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), to protect driveline components from improper operation.
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Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting the engine. The vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You must fully apply the regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down.
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AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push the accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator pedal all the way down.
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SECOND (2): This position gives you more power, but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). 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 the brakes off and on. NOTICE: Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km) at speeds over 55 mph...
Parking Brake To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with the right foot. Push down on the parking brake pedal, located to the left of the regular brake pedal near the driver’s door, with the left foot. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with the right foot and push the parking brake pedal with the left foot.
Shifting Into PARK (P) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running 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.
Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transaxle Operation” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down.
Engine Exhaust CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.
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. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to. If you’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever The lever on the left side of the steering column includes the following: Turn and Lane Change Signals Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer Flash Pass Feature Windshield Wipers Windshield Washer Cruise Control (If Equipped) Turn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned out bulbs and then check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). A chime will sound if you leave the turn signal on for more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km).
Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever, there’s a paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. The wipers will run for several sweeps and then either stop or return to your preset speed.
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Setting Cruise Control CAUTION: If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use cruise control.
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Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: Push in the SET button until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. To slow down in very small amounts, push the SET button briefly.
Exterior Lamps The lamp controls are located on the lower left side of the instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel. They control the following systems: Headlamps Taillamps Parking Lamps License Lamps 2-52 Sidemarker Lamps Instrument Panel Lights Courtesy Lamps : Turn the knob to this symbol to turn on the headlamps and other operating lamps.
The DRL system will make your low come on at a reduced brightness when the following conditions are met: The ignition is on, the headlamp switch is off, the transaxle is not in PARK (P) and the parking brake is released. When the DRL are on, only your low at a reduced brightness, will be on.
Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by turning the interior lamps thumbwheel. Turn the thumbwheel to the right to increase the brightness of the instrument panel lights and to the left to decrease the brightness. Turn the thumbwheel completely to the left to turn them off.
Delayed Illumination The delayed illumination feature will continue to light the interior of the vehicle for 25 seconds after all the doors have been closed so that you can find the ignition and buckle the seat belt at night. Delayed illumination will not occur while the ignition is in RUN or ACCESSORY.
Overhead Console Reading Lamps (Option) These lamps are part of the overhead console. They will go on when you open the doors. When the doors are closed, push the button next to each lamp to turn them on and off. The console also contains an open storage bin.
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Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror with OnStar (If Equipped) This mirror has a lever located at the bottom of the mirror. This lever is used to change the mirror from day to night position. To reduce glare from headlamps behind you while driving at night, turn the lever 90 degrees.
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Automatic Dimming Feature The automatic dimming feature is turned on or off by briefly pressing the COMP button located on the bottom of the mirror face. A light on the mirror will be lit when the feature is turned on. It will go out when the feature is turned off.
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To adjust for compass variance, do the following: 1. Find your current location and variance zone number on the map. 2. Press and hold the COMP button for three seconds. If your vehicle has the optional mirror with the compass, temperature display and OnStar system, press the on/off button for six seconds.
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Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror with Compass, Temperature Display, and OnStar (Option) Your vehicle may have an automatic mirror with a compass and temperature display and the OnStar system. When turned on, this mirror functions exactly like the electrochromic mirror described previously. See “Mirrors, Electrochromic Rearview”...
Power Outside Mirrors The power mirror control is located near the driver’s window, on the armrest. Turn the control counterclockwise to adjust the left mirror or clockwise to adjust the right mirror. Then move the control in the direction you want to move the mirror.
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Overhead Console (Option) The optional overhead console has reading lamps and storage compartments (including one for your garage door opener and one for sunglasses). These features are explained on the following pages. Reading Lamps To turn either reading lamp on or off, press the switch next to it.
Center Console Storage To open the armrest storage area, pull up on the front edge of the latch. The console has cassette and CD storage and a coinholder. The center console also contains two cupholders. To access the cupholders, pull the cupholder door, located behind the console shift lever.
Convenience Net (If Equipped) The vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it on the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, in the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops.
Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them from front to side. Visor Vanity Mirrors Open the cover to expose the vanity mirror. If the vehicle has the optional lighted vanity mirrors, the lamps come on when you open the cover.
OnStar System (If Equipped) OnStar is a vehicle communications system that offers a variety of services and provides a hands communication link between you and the OnStar Center. A service subscription agreement and fee are required in order to receive OnStar service. Services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The light will be red in the event of an OnStar system malfunction. If this occurs press the OnStar button to attempt to contact an advisor. If the connection is made, the advisor will assist you with steps to take to make sure that the system is functioning properly.
Premium Services (Includes Safety and Security Services) Route Support An advisor can provide directions or guidance to anywhere you want to go. In addition, they can help you locate gas stations, rest areas, ATMs, hospitals, hotels, stores, eateries and more. Concierge Services The concierge advisor can obtain tickets, reservations, or help with vacation/trip...
Sunroof (Option) The sunroof includes a sliding glass panel and a piece sunshade. The switch works only when the ignition or retained accessory power (RAP) is active. See “Retained Accessory Power (RAP)” in the Index. Push the rear of the switch once and the sunroof will open to the vent position only.
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The Instrument Panel Your Information System 2-70...
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The main components of the instrument panel are listed here: A. Side Window Defogger Vents B. Fog Lamp Switch C. Multifunction Lever D. Instrument Panel Cluster E. Hazard Button F. Horn, Driver’s Side Air Bag G. Trip Computer/Driver Information Center (DIC) H.
Instrument Panel Cluster United States Version Shown, Canadian Similar Your vehicle is equipped with this cluster or one very similar to it. It includes indicator warning lights and gages that are explained on the following pages. Be sure to read about them. 2-72...
Speedometer and Odometer The speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). The odometer shows how far the vehicle has been driven in either miles (used in the United States) or in kilometers (used in Canada).
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement.
Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows the words SRS AIR BAG or the air bag symbol. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem.
Charging System Light The charging system light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, as a check to show you it’s working. Then it will go out. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the electrical charging system.
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.
Traction Control System Warning Light (3800 Supercharged V6 Engine Only) The traction control system warning light may come on for the following reasons: If you turn the system off by pressing the TCS button located on the far right side of the trip computer, the warning light will come on and stay on.
If the traction control system is affected by an engine related problem, the system will turn off and the warning light will come on. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. Low Traction Light If you have the Enhanced Traction...
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage United States You have a gage that shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the shaded area, the engine is too hot. That reading means the same thing as the warning light. It means that the engine coolant has overheated.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light in the United States or Check Engine Light in Canada) United States Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (On Board Diagnostics Second Generation) and is intended to assure...
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This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: Light Flashing A misfire condition has been...
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Are you low on fuel? As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine may not run as efficiently as designed since small amounts of air are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire. The system can detect this. Adding fuel should correct this condition.
Oil Warning Light United States If you have a problem with your oil pressure, this light may stay on after you start your engine, or come on when you are driving. This indicates that oil is not going through your engine quickly enough to keep it lubricated.
Low Oil Level Light The engine is equipped with an oil level monitoring system. When the ignition key is turned to RUN, the LOW OIL LEVEL light will briefly flash. If the light does not flash, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.
Fuel Gage United States The fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left when the ignition is on. When the indicator nears empty, you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon. Here are four things owners usually ask about the fuel gage.
Driver Information Center (DIC) 3100 V6 or 3800 V6 Engine Only The Driver Information Center (DIC) gives you important safety and maintenance facts. When you turn the ignition on, all of the DIC lights illuminate for a few seconds. After this, the DIC will begin working. 2-87...
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Functions : If one of the doors is ajar, this light will appear next to that door on the vehicle outline. CHANGE OIL SOON: This light will appear when the system indicates that it’s time for an oil change. The system predicts remaining oil life using inputs from length of drives, coolant temperature, engine rpm and vehicle speed.
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3800 V6 Supercharged Engine When you start the engine, the trip computer will display a mode. A lighted oval will appear to the left of the mode currently being used. 2-90...
Control Buttons The trip computer has three buttons that control its functions. ENG/MET: Press this button to change the display from English to metric units or metric to English. RESET: Press this button for two seconds to reset the mode displayed. MODE: Press this button to change the mode being displayed.
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TRAC/TCS OFF: This light lets you know that the enhanced traction system (3100 or 3800 V6 engine) or the traction control system (3800 supercharged V6 engine) has been disabled and will not limit wheel spin. See “Traction Control System Warning Light,” “Enhanced Traction System Warning Light”...
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The HUD also shows the following lights when they are lit on the instrument panel cluster: Turn Signal Indicators High Beam Indicator Symbol Low Fuel Symbol The HUD will display “CHECK GAGE” when the following items are lit on the instrument panel cluster: Oil Warning Symbol Coolant Temperature Symbol Charging System Symbol...
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To adjust the HUD so you can see it properly do the following: 1. Start your engine and turn the DIM thumbwheel to the desired HUD image brightness. 2. Adjust your seat, if necessary, to a comfortable position. 3. Press the top of the UP/DN switch until the HUD image stops moving.
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Care of the Head-Up Display Clean the inside of the windshield as needed to remove any dirt or film that reduces the sharpness or clarity of the HUD image. To clean the HUD, spray household glass cleaner on a soft, clean cloth. Wipe the HUD lens gently, then dry it. Do not spray cleaner directly on the lens because the cleaner could leak into the unit.
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 Dual Climate Control System Rear Window Defogger Ventilation System...
Comfort Controls Dual Climate Control System This system allows the driver and passenger to maintain separate temperature settings. The system works best if you keep the windows closed while using it. Fan Knob The knob on the left side of the climate control panel regulates the fan speed.
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Mode Knob The knob on the right side of the climate control panel has several settings to adjust the direction of the airflow: MAX: This setting recirculates much of the air inside your vehicle and sends it through the instrument panel outlets.
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Air Conditioning On very hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot, inside air escape. This reduces the time for the vehicle to cool down. For quick cool down on very hot days, use MAX with the temperature levers all the way in the blue area. If this setting is used for long periods of time, the air in your vehicle may become too dry.
Rear Window Defogger The comfort control system has a button to operate your vehicle’s rear window defogger. It is marked REAR. The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Press the button to turn the rear defogger on.
Ventilation System Adjust the direction of airflow by moving the louvered vents. Your vehicle’s flow through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the air conditioning fan is running. Ventilation Tips Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction, such as leaves.
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player Playing the Radio POWER/VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this button.
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Setting the Tone BASS: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or decrease bass. TREBLE: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.
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E11: The tape is broken. Try a new tape. E14: Wrapped tape. Try a new tape. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem.
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TAPE/PLAY: Press this button to change to the tape function when the radio is on. The tape symbol with an arrow will appear on the display when the tape is active. To return to playing the radio, press the AM/FM button. EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape.
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player (Option) Playing the Radio POWER/VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Display the time with the ignition off by pressing this knob.
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Setting the Tone BASS: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or decrease bass. TREBLE: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.
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PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc.
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer (If Equipped) Playing the Radio POWER/VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. Turn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock.
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Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers.
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PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc.
Theft Deterrent Feature THEFTLOCK is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature.
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Unlocking the Theft Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on. “LOC” will appear on the display. 2. Press MIN and “000” will appear on the display. 3.
Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel. SEEK: Press the up arrow to tune to the next radio station and the down arrow to tune to the previous radio station.
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.
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.
After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display “ ” to show the indicator was reset. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced.
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 Traction Control System (With 3800 Supercharged V6 Engine)
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.”...
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...
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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 front wheel and at both rear wheels.
Traction Control System (With 3800 Supercharged V6 Engine) Your vehicle has a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the front wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction.
To turn the system off, press the TCS button on the far right end of the trip computer. The traction control system warning light will come on and stay on. If the system is limiting wheel spin when you press the button, the warning light will come on and the system will turn off instantly.
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The Enhanced Traction System operates in all transaxle shift lever positions. But the system can upshift the transaxle only as high as the shift lever position you’ve chosen, so you should use the lower gears only when necessary. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. This TRAC OFF warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem.
Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Variable Effort Steering (Option) This steering system provides lighter steering effort for parking and when driving at speeds below 20 mph (32 km/h).
Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower. If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead.
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.
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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.
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.
Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving. Drive defensively.
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps), slow down a little.
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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.
Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.
Driving Through Flowing Water CAUTION: Flowing or rushing water creates strong forces. If you try to drive through flowing water, as you might at a low water crossing, your vehicle can be carried away. As little as six inches of flowing water can carry away a smaller vehicle.
Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross country trip.
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. such as after a day’s...
Here are some things you can check before a trip: Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble...
Hill and Mountain Roads Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or rolling terrain. If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable.
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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.
Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip”...
Your anti lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti Lock”...
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Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can.
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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.
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.
Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself.
And, it can also depend on any special equipment that you have on your vehicle. 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, MI 48232...
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.
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.
Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.
Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. On a steep or long uphill grade, it is recommended that you shift down and reduce your speed to around 30 mph (50 km/h) to reduce the possibility of engine...
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: Start your engine; Shift into a gear; and Release the parking brake. 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3.
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...
Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press the button on top of the steering column to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.
Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please follow the steps listed to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain acid that can burn you.
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NOTICE: If the other system isn’t a 12 volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. 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.
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To uncover the remote positive (+) terminal, squeeze the sides of the plastic cap and slide the plastic cap off. CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light.
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CAUTION: Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running. 5. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too.
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6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.
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8. Now connect the black negative ( to the good battery’s negative ( 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.
Jumper Cable Removal Procedure 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 metal engine part on the vehicle that had the dead battery.
Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage and a warning light about a hot engine on your instrument panel cluster. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Engine Coolant Temperature Light” in the Index. You also have a low coolant light on your instrument panel cluster.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
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.
Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: 3100 V6 Engine A. Electric Engine Cooling Fans B. Radiator Pressure Cap C. Coolant Recovery Tank 3800 V6 and 3800 V6 Supercharged Engines A. Electric Engine Cooling Fans B.
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CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
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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.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX COOL coolant recovery tank. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information.
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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. Don’t spill coolant on a hot engine. When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the COLD mark, start your vehicle.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator NOTICE: Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged. 5-18 The radiator pressure cap is located on the passenger’s side in the front of the engine compartment, near the battery and the diagonal cross brace.
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2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. 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.
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Thermostat Bypass Thermostat Housing Tube (3100 V6) 5-20 Thermostat Housing (3100 V6) (3800 V6) 3100 V6 engine: There are two bleed valves. One is located on the thermostat housing. The other is located on the thermostat bypass tube. 3800 V6 engine: There is one bleed valve. It is located on the thermostat housing.
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5. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mixture. If you see a stream of coolant coming from an air bleed valve, close the valve.
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8. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD mark. 9. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off. 5-22 10. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot.
12. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this. 13. Check the coolant in the recovery tank. The level in the coolant recovery tank should be at the HOT mark when the engine is hot or at the COLD mark when the engine is cold.
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.
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. Turn the center nut on the compact spare tire cover counterclockwise to remove it. Remove the compact spare tire. See “Compact Spare Tire” in the Index for more information about the compact spare tire.
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Turn the nut holding the jack counterclockwise and remove it. Then remove the jack and wrench. 5-26 The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) extension and protector/guide (B) and wheel wrench (C).
If there is a wheel cover, Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the loosen the plastic nut caps Spare Tire with the wheel wrench. They won’t come off. Then, using the flat end of the wheel wrench, pry along the edge of the cover until it comes off.
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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.
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For jacking at the vehicle’s rear location, put the jack lift head about 5.5 inches (14 cm) from the front edge of the rear wheel opening or just behind the set as shown. Put the compact spare tire near you. 3.
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4. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident.
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8. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. 7. Lower the vehicle by turning the jack handle counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. 5-31...
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9. Reinstall the wheel trim. If present, tighten plastic caps by hand. With a wheel wrench tighten plastic caps an additional quarter turn clockwise. CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off.
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. After you’ve put the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you’ll need to store the flat tire in your trunk.
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 is for temporary use only.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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.
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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.
To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel.
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The tethered cap is behind the fuel door on the driver’s side of your vehicle. While refueling, let the cap hang by the tether below the fuel fill opening. 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.
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CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather.
Filling a Portable Fuel Container CAUTION: Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs.
Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle located inside the vehicle near the parking brake pedal. Next go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood latch. Lift the hood.
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood of the 3100 V6 (Code J) engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Coolant Reservoir 6-10 E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G.
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When you open the hood of the 3800 V6 (Code K) engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Coolant Reservoir E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (low in engine compartment) F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G.
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When you open the hood of the 3800 V6 Supercharged (Code 1) engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Engine Coolant Reservoir 6-12 E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir (low in engine compartment) F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G.
Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then pull the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil If the LOW OIL LEVEL light appears on the instrument panel, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.
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Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way.
When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This part explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications”...
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.
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As in the chart shown previously, if you have the 3100 V6 engine, SAE 5W 30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W 30 if it’s going to be 0 _ F ( 18 _ C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness.
NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty. GM Goodwrench oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle.
How to Reset the GM Oil Life System To reset the GM Oil Life System changed, use the following steps: Using the Driver Information Center (DIC) 1. With the ignition key in RUN but the engine off, fully push and release the accelerator pedal slowly three times within five seconds.
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter The engine air cleaner/filter is located on the driver’s side near the front of the engine compartment. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. To check or replace the engine air cleaner/filter do the following: 1.
CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/filter off.
How to Check and Add Oil Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the engine to cool two to three hours after running. CAUTION: If you remove the supercharger oil fill plug while the engine is hot, pressure may cause hot oil to blow out of the oil fill hole.
How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle.
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Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 3100 V6 Engine 3800 V6 or 3800 V6 Supercharged Engine The transaxle fluid dipstick handle is the red loop located near the back of the engine. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location.
3800 V6 or 3800 V6 Supercharged Engine 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross hatched area. 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way.
Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with COOL engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only COOL extended life coolant.
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.
Checking Coolant The coolant recovery tank is located on the passenger’s side of the vehicle in the rear of the engine compartment. See “Engine Compartment Overview” in the Index for more information on location. 6-28 The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD mark or a little higher.
CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap little when the engine and radiator are hot.
Power Steering 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.
How to Check Power Steering Fluid Turn the key off, let the engine compartment cool down, wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean, then unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.
What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, see “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid.
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There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up.
NOTICE: Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced.
NOTICE: Continuing to drive with worn out brake pads could result in costly brake repair. Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes.
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.
Bulb Replacement In this section, you’ll find directions for changing the bulbs on your vehicle. See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to find the type of bulb you should use. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact the service department of your dealer. Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and...
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3. Carefully remove the headlamp assembly from the vehicle. Be careful to avoid scratching or chipping the paint on the vehicle while removing. 4. Lift the plastic tab on the electrical connector and pull the connector. 5. Turn the lamp socket ring a quarter turn counterclockwise to remove it from the headlamp assembly.
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6. Pull the old bulb from the socket. 7. Place the new bulb into the socket. 8. Turn the lamp socket ring a quarter turn clockwise to place it back into the headlamp assembly. 9. Lift the plastic tab on the electrical connector and reinstall the connector.
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Front Turn Signal and Front Sidemarker 1. Open the hood, and support it properly. 2. Remove the two bolts from the top of the headlamp assembly. 3. Remove the headlamp assembly from the vehicle. Be careful to avoid scratching or chipping the paint on the vehicle while removing it.
Fog Lamps 1. Reach behind the fog lamp that needs to be replaced from underneath the front of the vehicle. 2. The bulb socket is above the wing nut. 3. Turn the bulb socket a quarter turn counterclockwise to remove the socket from the assembly. 4.
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3. Remove old the bulb by turning it a quarter turn counterclockwise. 4. Place the new bulb into the bulb socket. 5. Turn the bulb a quarter turn clockwise. Reinstall the vent you removed earlier. 6. Close the trunk. Back-Up, Tail Lamp and Rear Sidemarker 1.
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5. Carefully remove the taillamp assembly. Be careful to 6. Turn the lamp socket a quarter turn counterclockwise avoid scratching or chipping the paint on the vehicle. to remove. 6-44...
7. Remove the old bulb. 8. Place the new bulb into the socket. 9. Turn the lamp socket a quarter turn clockwise to reinstall it. 10. Carefully reinstall the taillamp assembly by reversing Steps 1 through 5. Be careful to avoid scratching or chipping the vehicle’s paint.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected as least twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Windshield Wipers, Blade Check” in the Index for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For the proper type and length, see “Normal Maintenance and Replacement Parts”...
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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.
Inflation -- Tire Pressure The Tire Loading Information label, which is on the inside of the trunk lid, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km). NOTICE: Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right.
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.
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.
CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while driving. If you mix tires of different sizes or types (radial and bias belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly, and you could have a crash. Using tires of different sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle.
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Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance The wheels on your vehicle were aligned and balanced carefully at the factory to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance. Scheduled wheel alignment and wheel balancing are not needed. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or your vehicle pulling one way or the other, the alignment may need to be reset.
Used Replacement Wheels CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you have to replace a wheel, use a new GM original equipment wheel.
Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything from a container to clean your vehicle, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s warnings and instructions.
Here are some cleaning tips: Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. Clean up stains as soon as you can Carefully scrape off any excess stain. Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn.
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.
Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index. Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may cause scratches.
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth of color, gloss retention and durability. Washing Your Vehicle The best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water.
Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can damage your vehicle’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible. If necessary, use non abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Instrument Panel Fuse Block Some fuses are in a fuse block located inside of the glove box behind a small bin on the right side. To open, pull the cover out. The fuse block is inside. On the back edge of this cover is a fuse puller and a fuse usage chart. To use the fuse puller, place the wide end of the fuse puller over the plastic end of the fuse.
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Fuse Description BLANK Blank BLANK Blank MALL PGM Mall Module MALL Mall Module WIPER Wipers STR WHL Steering Wheel Illumination ILLUM BLANK Blank STR WHL Steering Wheel Control CTRL SUNROOF Sunroof RADIO Radio BLANK Blank RADIO AMP Bose Amplifier PWR LOCK Mall Module HSEAT/LUM Heated Seats, Power Lumbar...
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 Scheduled Maintenance Part B: Owner Checks and Services Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Part E: Maintenance Record...
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.
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.
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.
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).
Scheduled Maintenance Engine Oil Scheduled Maintenance Change engine oil and filter as indicated by the GM Oil Life System (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). Reset the system. The system will show you when to change the oil usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and 10,000 miles (16 000 km) since your last oil change.
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Scheduled Maintenance 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) Inspect engine air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary.
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Scheduled Maintenance 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. For supercharged engines only: Check the supercharger oil level and add oil as needed (or every 36 months, whichever occurs first).
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Scheduled Maintenance 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) j 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. –...
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Scheduled Maintenance 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) For supercharged engines only: Check the supercharger oil level and add oil as needed (or every 36 months, whichever occurs first). See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in this section. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote Rotate tires.
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Scheduled Maintenance 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) Replace engine air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. For supercharged engines only: Check the supercharger oil level and add oil as needed (or every 36 months, whichever occurs first).
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Scheduled Maintenance 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) j Inspect spark plug wires. An Emission Control Service. j Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: –...
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.
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.
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Starter Switch Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2.
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Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). The key should come out only in LOCK.
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.
Engine Cooling System Inspection Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, fittings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. To help ensure proper operation, a pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap is recommended at least once a year.
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.
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USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Supercharger Supercharger Oil (GM Part No. 12345982). See “Supercharger Oil” in the Index. Hood Latch Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol Assembly, (GM Part No. 12346293 or Secondary Latch, equivalent) or lubricant meeting Pivots, Spring requirements of NLGI # 2, Anchor and Category LB or GC Release Pawl 7-22...
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.
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Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-24...
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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?
... 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.
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.
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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.
(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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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,...
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.
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.
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).
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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.)
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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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