Pontiac 1996 Grand Am Owner's Manual page 117

I
NOTICE:
If you keep driving your vehicle with this light
on, after a while, your emission controls may n m o t
work as well, your fuel economy may not be as
good
and your engine may not run as smoothly.
This could lead to costly repairs that may not be
covered by your warranty.
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:
0
Light Flashing
--
A misfire condition has been
detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and
may damage the emission control system on your
vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis
and service is required.
0
Light
On
Steady
--
An emission control system
malfunction has been detected on your vehicle.
Dealer or
qualified service center diagnosis and
service may be required.
If
the Light
Is
Flashing
The following may prevent m l
your
vehicle:
0
Reduce vehicle speed.
0
Avoid hard accelerations.
0
Avoid steep uphill grades.
e
serious damage to
i
If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being
hauled as-soon as it is possible.
If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see "If
the Light Is On Steady" following.
If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so,
stop the vehicle. Put your vehicle in PARK (P). Turn the
key off, wait at least
10 seconds and restart the engine.
If the light remains on steady, see "If the Light Is On
Steady" following. If the light is still flashing follow the
previous, steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or
qualified service center for service.
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