Pontiac 2000 manual

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Free lockout assistance Free dead-battery assistance Free out-of-fuel assistance Free flat-tire change Emergency towing 1-800-762-3743 ( For vehicles purchased in Canada, call 1-800-268-6800) that provides in an emergency: 1-800-762-3743 ( For vehicles purchased in Canada, call 1-800-268-6800) Bumper-to-Bumper 3-years/36,000 miles (60 000 km) Limit[...]

i 2000 Pontiac Grand Am Owner's Manual Litho in U.S.A. Part Number 22619480 A First Edition © Copyright General Motors Corporation 1999 All Rights Reserved[...]

ii Table of Contents Keys and Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry System Trunk Release Automatic Transmission (If Equipped) Manual Transmission Parking Brake Windows Tilt Wheel Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Windshield Wipers Cruise Control Interior and Exterior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Convenience Net (If Equipped) Sunroof (If Equipped) Ins[...]

iii Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Section 5 Table of Contents (cont'd) Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Enhanced Traction System Steering Driving Tips for Various Road Conditions Recreational Vehicle Towing Loading Your Vehicle Towing a Trailer Heating and Air Con[...]

Table of Contents (cont'd) Maintenance Schedule Service and Appearance Care Section 7 Section 6 Scheduled Maintenance Owner Checks and Services Periodic Maintenance Inspections Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Maintenance Records Fuel Checking Fluids and Lubricants GM Oil Life System™ Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Brakes Bulb Replacement Windsh[...]

v Table of Contents (cont'd) Customer Assistance Information In the Index you will find an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read. Section 8 Customer Satisfaction Procedures Customer Assistance Offices Roadside Assistance and Courtesy Transportation Warranty Inform[...]

vi GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, PONTIAC, the PONTIAC Emblem and the name GRAND AM are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. W e reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, subst[...]

vii How to Use this Manual Many people read their owne r ’ 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 quickl y . Safety W arnings and Symbols [...]

viii V ehicle Damage W arnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty , and it could be costly . But the notice will tell you what [...]

ix For example, these symbols are used on an original battery: CAUTION POSSIBLE INJUR Y PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING CAUSTIC BA TTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS A VOID SP ARKS OR FLAMES SP ARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BA TTERY These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven: DOOR LOCK UNLOCK F ASTEN SEA T BEL TS POWER[...]

Service Station Guide Oil Viscosity Engine Oil See Section 6 Engine Oil Dipstick See Section 6 Use unleaded gas only, 87 Octane or higher. See Section 6 Cooling System See Section 5 Hood Release See Section 6 Windshield Washer Fluid See Section 6 Spare Tire Pressure See Section 5 Battery See Section 6 For a More Detailed Look at What's Under t[...]

1- 1-1 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 . Y ou can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belt. 1 - 2 Seats and Seat Controls 1 - 9 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone 1 - 13 Here Are Questions Many People [...]

1-2 Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Seats CAUTION: Y ou can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push [...]

1-3 Power Lift Seat-Forward/Rearward Controls (If Equipped) Move the control lever under the front of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body to make sure the seat is locked into place. Power Lift Seat-Height Controls (If Equipped) The power seat switch is located on[...]

1-4 6-W ay Power Seat Controls (If Equipped) The power seat switch is located on the lower left side of the driver ’ s seat. This switch allows you to move the seat up, down, forward, and backward. It also moves the front of the seat up or down and the rear of the seat up or down. Move the seat higher by lifting and holding the bottom of the swit[...]

1-5 Manual Lumbar Support (If Equipped) T urn the knob on the right front of the driver ’ s seat cushion to the clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust support of the lower back. Reclining Front Seatbacks T o adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat and move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the[...]

1-6 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 r eclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body . Instead, it will [...]

1-7 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) CAUTION: If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person si[...]

1-8 Easy Entry Seat (2-Door Models) CAUTION: If an easy entry right front seat isn’t locked, it can move. In a sudden stop or crash, the person sitting there could be injur ed. After you’ve used it, be sure to push r earward on an easy entry seat to be sure it is locked. The right front seat of your vehicle makes it easy to get in and out of th[...]

1-9 Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly . It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or air bag system. CAUTION: Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly . If you are[...]

1-10 In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’ s why: They work. Y ou never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in bet[...]

1-1 1 Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.[...]

1-12 The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... or the instrument panel ...[...]

1-13 or the safety belts! W ith safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. Y ou get more time to stop. Y ou stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’ s why safety belts make such good sense. Here Ar e Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q: W on’t I be trapped in the vehicle after [...]

1-14 Q: If I’m a good driver , and I never drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts? A: Y ou may be an excellent driver , but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most acciden[...]

1-15 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly . If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly . 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch pla[...]

1-16 5. T o make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt. 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 bel[...]

1-17 Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (4 - Door Models) Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. T o move it down, squeeze the release button and move the height adjuster to the desired position. Y ou can move the adjuster up just by pushing on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster [...]

1-18 Q: What’ s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way . CAUTION: Y ou can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury . The shoulder belt should fit against your body .[...]

1-19 Q: What’ s wrong with this? A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place. CAUTION: Y ou 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. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt in[...]

1-20 Q: What’ s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. CAUTION: Y ou 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 . Also, the belt would apply t[...]

1-21 Q: What’ s wrong with this? A: The belt is twisted across the body . CAUTION: Y ou can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact for ces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly , or ask your dealer to fix it.[...]

1-22 T o 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. Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupa[...]

1-23 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 . Right Front Passenger Position T o learn how to wear the right front passenger ?[...]

1-24 CAUTION: Air bags inflate with great for ce, 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. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. The driver should sit as far[...]

1-25 There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information. How the Air Bag System W orks Where ar e the air bags? The driver ’ s a[...]

1-26 The right front passenger ’ s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger ’ s side. CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear . Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air [...]

1-27 When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near - frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’ s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 14 mph ([...]

1-28 What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module -- the steering wheel hub for the driver ’ s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger ’ s bag -- will be hot for a sh[...]

1-29 NOTICE: If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger ’ s air bag, the bag may not work properly . Y ou may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger ’ s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings. If your [...]

1-30 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. And they can strike others in the vehic[...]

1-31 If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not 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[...]

1-32 The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. 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. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt shoul[...]

1-33 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passeng[...]

1-34 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.[...]

1-35 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 . T o remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its [...]

1-36 Lap Belt When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor . T o make the belt longer , tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. T o 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 be[...]

1-37 Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to som[...]

1-38 CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued) CAUTION: (Continued) at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 - lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240 - lb. (1 10 kg) force on[...]

1-39 Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. Q: What are the differ ent types of add - on child restraints? A: Add - on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’ s[...]

1-40 A rear - facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear - facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’ s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash. Some inf[...]

1-41 A forward - facing child restraint (C - E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward - facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age. One type, a convertible restraint, is designe[...]

1-42 A booster seat (F) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’ s safety belt system. Booster seats with shields use lap - only belts; however , booster seats without shields u[...]

1-43 CAUTION: A child in a rear - facing child restraint can be seriously injur ed or killed if the right front passenger’ s air bag inflates. This is because the back of the rear - facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear - facing child restraint in a rear seat. Y ou may secure a forward - facing [...]

1-44 Anchor the top strap to this bracket. Once you have the top strap anchored, you’ll be ready to secure the child restraint itself. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position Y ou’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 th[...]

1-45 T ilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’ s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint. 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.[...]

1-46 4. T o tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a forward - facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 5. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. T o r[...]

1-47 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. 3. Run the vehicle’ s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how . 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckl[...]

1-48 T o remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’ s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger . Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position Y our vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear - facing child restraint in this seat. Here’ s why: CAUTION: A child in a[...]

1-49 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. 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock.[...]

1-50 6. T o tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. Y ou may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. T o remove the child restraint, just unb[...]

1-51 Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly . Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are. CAUTION: Never do this. Here two childr en are wearing the same belt. The bel[...]

1-52 CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap - 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. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. Wh[...]

1-53 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. The extender will be just for [...]

2- 2-1 Section 2 Featur es 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. 2 - 2 Keys 2 - 4 Door Lo[...]

2-2 Keys CAUTION: Leaving childr en in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many r easons. 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.[...]

2-3 One key is used for the ignition and all locks. When a new vehicle is delivered, the key has a bar - coded key tag. This tag may be removed by your dealer before it is delivered. Each tag has a key code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the tag in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be [...]

2-4 Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be danger ous. Passengers -- especially childr en -- can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: Y ou increase the chance of being t[...]

2-5 Power Door Locks W ith the power door locks, you can unlock or lock all of the doors of your vehicle from the driver or front passenger door lock switch. Push the top of the switch to unlock all of the doors. Push the bottom of the switch to lock all the doors. Automatic Door Locks Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of the door[...]

2-6 One of the four operating modes may be selected and programmed by the driver for a manual transaxle: Mode 1: All doors automatically lock when the vehicle speed is greater than 5 mph (8 km/h). The doors will remain locked unless manually unlocked or the lock button is pressed. All doors will unlock when the transaxle is shifted into REVERSE (R)[...]

2-7 Delayed Locking The Delayed Locking feature is standard and makes it easier to use your power door locks at any time either manually or with the power door lock switches. This feature will not operate if the key is left in the ignition. See Anti - Lockout Protection later in this section. When the driver leaves the vehicle and pushes the power [...]

2-8 The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on: 1. Unlock the door from the inside. 2. Then open the door from the outside. If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to o[...]

2-9 Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Y our keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission[...]

2-10 Operation The following functions are available with the keyless entry system: LOCK: All doors will automatically lock when the LOCK button on the transmitter is pressed. The interior lamps will turn off after all of the doors are closed. If all of the doors are closed, the parking lamps will flash twice and the horn will chirp to indicate loc[...]

2-1 1 Matching T ransmitter(s) T o Y our V ehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer . Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer . When the dealer match[...]

2-12 T o replace the battery in the keyless entry transmitter: 1. Use a small coin or flathead screwdriver to separate the bottom half from the top half of the transmitter . 2. Remove the battery and replace it with the new one. Make sure the positive (+) side of the battery faces down. Use one three - volt, CR2032, or equivalent, type battery . 3.[...]

2-13 CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. Y ou 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 tr[...]

2-14 Remote T runk Release Lockout Y our remote trunk release is equipped with a lockout feature to help prevent unauthorized entry into the trunk when the vehicle is left unattended. The switch is located on the inside of the trunk lid, mounted to the trunk lid latch. T o turn the lockout on, slide the switch all the way to the left, to ON. T o tu[...]

2-15 Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’ s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your key? [...]

2-16 New V ehicle “Break - In” NOTICE: Y our vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break - in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full - throttle starts. A void making hard stops for the first 200 miles (3[...]

2-17 ACC (Accessory) (B): This position unlocks the transaxle. It also lets you use things like the radio and windshield wipers when the engine is not running. T o use ACC, turn the key clockwise to the first position. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed, but never try to push - start your vehicle. ON (C): This position is whe[...]

2-18 Starting Y our 2.4 Liter L4 Engine 1. W ith your foot off the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to ST AR T . When the engine starts, let go of the key . The idle speed will go down as your engine warms up. NOTICE: Holding your key in ST AR T for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner . And th[...]

2-19 Starting Y our 3400 V6 Engine 1. W ithout pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to ST AR T . When the engine starts, let go of the key . The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm. NOTICE: Holding your key in ST AR T for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner . And the exces[...]

2-20 Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) 2.4L L4 Engine 3400 V6 Engine In very cold weather , 0 F ( - 18 C) or colder , the engine coolant heater can help. Y ou’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm - up. Usually , the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.[...]

2-21 T o Use the Engine Coolant Heater 1. T urn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. On the 2.4L L4 engine the engine coolant heater cord is located in front of the engine coolant surge tank. On the 3400 V6 engine the engine coolant heater cord is located near the air cleaner/filter . 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 1[...]

2-22 Automatic T ransaxle Operation Y our automatic transaxle has a shift lever located on the console between the seats. P ARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’ s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily . CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully [...]

2-23 Ensure the shift lever is fully in P ARK (P) before starting the engine. Y our vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control. Y ou have to apply your regular brake before you can shift from P ARK (P) when the ignition key is in ON. If you cannot shift out of P ARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and push the shift lever all the w[...]

2-24 AUT OMA TIC 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 your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. Y ou’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power . NOTICE: If y[...]

2-25 FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). Y ou can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (1), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough. NOTICE: If your front wheels can’t r otate, don’t try to d[...]

2-26 THIRD (3), FOUR TH (4) and FIFTH (5): Shift into THIRD (3), FOUR TH (4) and FIFTH (5) the same way you do for SECOND (2). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. T o stop, let up on the accelerator pedal and press the brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal, and shift[...]

2-27 Parking Brake T o set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Pull up on the parking brake handle. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. T o release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake handle up until you can press the release button. Hold[...]

2-28 Shifting Into P ARK (P) (Automatic T ransaxle Only) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in P ARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Y our vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly . Y ou or others could be injured. T o be sure your vehicle won’[...]

2-29 Leaving Y our V ehicle W ith the Engine Running (Automatic T ransaxle Only) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Y our vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in P ARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and ev[...]

2-30 Shifting Out of P ARK (P) (Automatic T ransaxle Only) Y our vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system. Y ou have to apply your regular brake before you can shift from P ARK (P) when the ignition is in ON. See “Automatic T ransaxle” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of P ARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever and p[...]

2-31 CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. Engine Exhaust CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. Y ou might have [...]

2-32 Running Y our Engine While Y ou’re Parked (Automatic T ransaxle) It’ s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know . CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also,[...]

2-33 Windows Manual Windows On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank to open and close each window . Power W indows (If Equipped) The power window switches are located on the armrest of the driver ’ s door . In addition, each passenger door has a switch for its own window . Auto - Down Switch The driver ’ s window switch has an au[...]

2-34 Tilt Wheel A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. Y ou can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. T o tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever toward you. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever[...]

2-35 T urn and Lane Change Signals The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. T o signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically . An arrow on the instrument panel cluster will fla[...]

2-36 Windshield W ipers Y ou control the windshield wipers by moving the stalk with the wiper symbol on it up or down. For a single wiper cycle, push the stalk down to MIST , then release it. For more cycles, hold the stalk down longer . For steady wiping at low speed, move the stalk up to the LO position. For high - speed wiping, move the stalk up[...]

2-37 Windshield W asher T o wash your windshield, push in the button at the end of the stalk until the washers begin. CAUTION: In freezing weather , don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision. When you release the button, the washers will stop, but the wipe[...]

2-38 Cruise Control (If Equipped) The cruise control buttons are located on the bottom of the steering wheel. W ith cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator . This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below 25 mph (40 km/h). When you appl[...]

2-39 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. Y ou could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise contr ol switch off until you want to use cruise control. 1. Press the cruise control ON OFF button. The ind[...]

2-40 Press the RES ACCEL button. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the button. T o increase your speed in very small amounts, press the RES ACCEL button for less than half a second and then release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster . The accelerate feature will only wo[...]

2-41 Exterior Lamps T urn the turn signal lever end cap up one position to turn on your: Parking Lamps Side Marker Lamps T aillamps License Plate Lamps Instrument Panel Lights T urn the turn signal lever end cap up two positions to turn on your: Headlamps Parking Lamps Sidemarker Lamps T aillamps License Plate Lamps Instrument Panel Lights T urn th[...]

2-42 Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day . DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will make your high - beam headlamps come on at a reduced[...]

2-43 There is a delay in the transition between the daytime and nighttime operation of the DRL and the ALC systems so that driving under bridges or bright overhead street lights does not affect the system. The DRL and ALC systems will only be affected when the light sensor sees a change in lighting lasting longer than this delay . T o idle your veh[...]

2-44 Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control Y ou can brighten or dim the instrument panel cluster lights by moving the thumbwheel to the right to increase intensity and to the left to decrease intensity . The thumbwheel is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. Courtesy Lamp Control When the thumbwheel for the[...]

2-45 Mirror Reading Lamps (If Equipped) Press the switch on the lower front portion of the mirror to turn on the lamps. Press the other side of the switch to turn the lamps off. Three-Position Dome Lamp (If Equipped) The switch on this lamp has three positions. The ON position will turn on the light. The DOOR position will turn on the light wheneve[...]

2-46 T runk Lamp The trunk lamp comes on when you open your trunk. Battery Saver Y our vehicle is equipped with a battery saver feature designed to protect your vehicle’ s battery . When any interior lamp (trunk, mirror reading lamps, footwell, dome lamp or glove box) is left on when the ignition is turned off, the battery saver system will autom[...]

2-47 Manual Remote Control Mirr or The outside rearview mirror should be adjusted so you can just see the side of your vehicle when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. Adjust the driver ’ s side outside mirror with the control lever on the driver ’ s door . T o adjust your passenger ’ s side mirror , sit in the driver ’ s sea[...]

2-48 Storage Compartments Glove Box Use the key to lock and unlock the glove box. T o open, pull the glove box handle up. Center Console Storage Area The center console has two separate storage areas. The upper compartment, which is also the armrest, can be used to store maps, gloves, etc. T o open, pull up on the driver ’ s side of the lid. Rear[...]

2-49 Sun V isors T o block out glare, you can swing down the visors. Y ou can also swing them to the side. V isor V anity Mirr or Lift the cover to expose the vanity mirror . Sunr oof (If Equipped) Open the sunshade by hand when using the vent position. T o use the vent position of the sunroof, push the switch back and release it. This is the expre[...]

2-50 The Instrument Panel - Y our Information System[...]

2-51 The main components of your instrument panel are: A. Fog Lamp Switch B. Instrument Panel Intensity Control C. T urn Signal/Multifunction Lever D. Horn E. Instrument Cluster F . W indshield W iper/W asher Lever G. Ignition Switch H. Enhanced T raction System I. Hazard Switch J. Audio System K. Climate Control System L. Cigarette Lighter M. Gear[...]

2-52 Instrument Panel Cluster Y our 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. Automatic T ransaxle Cluster Shown, Manual T ransaxle Cluster and Canada Cluster Similar[...]

2-53 Speedometer and Odometer Y our speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Y our odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Y our vehicle has a tamper resistant odometer . The digital odometer will read 999[...]

2-54 W arning 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. W arning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages [...]

2-55 Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’ s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more i[...]

2-56 Charging System Indicator Light The charging system indicator light will come on when you turn on the ignition, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you it is working. When the engine is running, the light should go out. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving and you hear a chime, you may have a problem with the electri[...]

2-57 This light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to ON. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’ s a problem. If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully . Y ou may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or , the pedal may go closer to the fl[...]

2-58 Enhanced T raction System W arning Light W ith the Enhanced T raction System (ETS), this warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’ s a problem. If the warning light stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be[...]

2-59 Enhanced T raction System Active Light When your Enhanced T raction System is limiting wheel spin, this light will come on. Slippery road conditions may exist if the Enhanced T raction System active light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly . The light will stay on for a few seconds after the Enhanced T raction System stops limiting w[...]

2-60 Low Coolant W arning Light This light comes on briefly when you turn your ignition on. If this light comes on and stays on and you hear a chime, the vehicle should promptly be pulled off the road and the coolant level checked. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index. If there are visible signs of steam, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index [...]

2-61 NOTICE: If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not 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 . NOTICE: Modifications made to the engine, transaxle, exhaust or fuel[...]

2-62 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 . Find a safe place to park your vehicle. T urn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady , see “If the Light Is On S[...]

2-63 Here are some things you need to know in order to help your vehicle pass an inspection: Y our vehicle will not pass this inspection if the SER VICE ENGINE SOON light is on or not working properly . Y our vehicle will not pass this inspection if the OBD (on - board diagnostic) system determines that critical emission control systems have not be[...]

2-64 CAUTION: Don’t keep driving if the oil pressur e is low . If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. Y ou or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. NOTICE: Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not cover ed by your warranty . Low Oil Ligh[...]

2-65 Change Oil Light The CHANGE OIL light should come on briefly as a bulb check when you start the engine. If the light doesn’t come on, have it serviced. If the CHANGE OIL light comes on and stays on after you start the engine, have the oil changed. For additional information, see “Engine Oil, When to Change” in the Index. T o reset the Oi[...]

2-66 Cruise Light (If Equipped) The CRUISE light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. Low W asher Light This light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition. It will also stay on, or come on and a chime will sound, if the windshield washer fluid reservoir is less than one - third full. Service V ehicle Soon Light This light will [...]

2-67 Fuel Gage United States Canada Y our fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left, when the ignition is on. When the indicator nears empty , the light will come on and you will hear a chime. Y ou still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon. Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem w[...]

3- 3-1 Section 3 Comfort Contr ols 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. 3 - 2 Comfort Controls 3 - 2 Climate Control System with Air Conditioning 3 - 3 Air Conditioning 3 - 4 Heatin[...]

3-2 Comfort Controls W ith this system, you can control the ventilation and heating in your vehicle. Y our vehicle also has the flow - through ventilation system described later in this section. Climate Control System with Air Conditioning Fan Knob The left control knob sets the fan speed. T o select the force of air you want, turn the knob. The fa[...]

3-3 FLOOR: In this position most of the airflow comes through the floor outlet. The rest of the air comes through the windshield and side window vents. Set the center control knob to the temperature desired. DEFOG: This position divides the airflow between the floor outlets and the windshield defroster vent. The air conditioning compressor will run[...]

3-4 Heating On cold days, use FLOOR with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air , heat it and send it to the floor outlets. Y our vehicle has heat ducts that are directed toward the rear seat. Keep the area under the front seats clear of obstructions so that the heated air can reach the rear seat pass[...]

3-5 Rear Window Defogger The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window . Press the defogger button. The indicator light will glow . The rear window defogger will turn itself off after about ten minutes after the first time the button is pressed, and after five minutes each additional time the button is pressed. Y o[...]

3-6 V entilation Tips Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or any other obstruction, such as leaves. The heater and defroster will work far better , reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows. When you enter a vehicle in cold weather , adjust the mode knob to FLOOR and the fan to the highest speed for a few moments bef[...]

3-7 AM-FM Stereo with Cassette T ape Player Playing the Radio POWER - V OL: Push this knob to turn the system on and off. T o increase volume, turn the knob clockwise. T urn it counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Display the time with the ignition of f by pressing this button. When the radio is playing, press this knob to recall the statio[...]

3-8 Setting the T one 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. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. T urn this knob to move the sound to the l[...]

3-9 PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to search for the previous selection on the tape. Y our tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during PREV or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to stop searching. The sound will mute durin[...]

3-10 CLN: If this message appears on the display , the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player . See “Care of Y our Cassette T ape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player , press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the[...]

3-1 1 Finding a Station AM/FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. T urn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back into its stored position when you’re not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station and s[...]

3-12 If you’re driving on a very rough road or if it’ s very hot, the disc may not play and E (error) and a number may appear on the radio display . If the disc comes out, it could be that: The disc is upside down. It is dirty , scratched or wet. The air is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and try again.) If any error occurs repeatedly or[...]

3-13 Remote Cassette T ape Player (If Equipped) Playing a Cassette T ape W ith this option, the remote single cassette player is mounted to the console. Y our tape player is built to work best with tapes that are up to 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. T apes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player . W ith the radio on,[...]

3-14 PROG: Press this button on the remote cassette player to go from one side of the tape to the other . CD/PLA Y : After a cassette tape and a CD have been inserted, press the CD/PLA Y button to switch between the CD player and the cassette tape player . Both features cannot be played at the same time. EJECT : Press this button on the remote cass[...]

3-15 Activating the Theft - Deterrent Featur e The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting the procedure. If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and you must[...]

3-16 Unlocking the Theft - Deterr ent Featur e After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. T urn the ignition on. LOC will appear on the display . 2. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display . 3. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. 4. Press HR to make the fi[...]

3-17 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. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the player will advan[...]

3-18 Understanding Radio Reception AM 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. T ry reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it. FM Stereo FM stereo will give [...]

3-19 Care of Y our Cassette T ape 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 play[...]

3-20 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. Care of Y our C[...]

4- 4-1 Section 4 Y our Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. W e’ve also included many other useful tips on driving. 4 - 2 Defensive Driving 4 - 3 Drunken Driving 4 - 6 Control of a V ehicle 4 - 6 Braking 4 - 9 Enhanced T raction System 4 - 1 1 Steering 4 -[...]

4-2 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[...]

4-3 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 V ision Attentiveness. Police records show that al[...]

4-4 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. There is a gender difference, too. W omen g[...]

4-5 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[...]

4-6 Control of a V ehicle Y ou 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 t[...]

4-7 A void needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Y our brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Y our brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow re[...]

4-8 Here’ s how anti - lock works. Let’ s say the road is wet. Y ou’re driving safely . Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. Y ou slam on the brakes. Here’ s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each fron[...]

4-9 Remember: Anti - lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti - lock[...]

4-10 When the system is on and the parking brake is fully released, this warning light will come on to let you know if there’ s a problem. See “Enhanced T raction System W arning Light” in the Index. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly . T o limit wheel spin, especially in slipp[...]

4-1 1 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. V ariable Effort Steering (If Equipped) This steering system provides lighter steering effort for parking and at low vehicle speeds. Steering effort will increase at higher speed[...]

4-12 Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. Y ou can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop i[...]

4-13 Off - Road Recovery Y ou 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 ed[...]

4-14 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. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks lik[...]

4-15 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 d[...]

4-16 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 . Don’t drink and drive. Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps b[...]

4-17 Y ou 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. A void staring directly into the approaching[...]

4-18 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. It’ s wise to keep your windshield wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer tank f[...]

4-19 CAUTION: W et brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. Y ou could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally . Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can bu[...]

4-20 Driving Thr ough Flowing W ater CAUTION: Flowing or rushing water creates str ong 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. If this happens, you and other vehicle occupants could drown. D[...]

4-21 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. T ry to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. Y ou’ll save time and energy . (See the next part, “Free[...]

4-22 The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. T oo - fast or too - slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow . T reat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane. At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway . If[...]

4-23 Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced and maintained, it’ s ready to go. 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. Here are some things you[...]

4-24 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. Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, ti[...]

4-25 CAUTION: Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Y our brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. Y ou would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. Y ou could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you g[...]

4-26 Include an ice scraper , a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap bags to he[...]

4-27 What’ s the worst time for this? “W et ice.” V ery cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. Y ou can get wet ice when it’ s about freezing (32 F; 0 C) and freezing rain begins to fall. T ry to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand cre[...]

4-28 If Y ou’re Caught in a Blizzard If you are stopped by heavy snow , you could be in a serious situation. Y ou should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow . Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: T urn on your hazard flas[...]

4-29 CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. Y ou can’t see it or smell it, so you might not know it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And che[...]

4-30 T o tow your vehicle with a dolly , follow these steps: Put the front wheels on a dolly . Put the vehicle in P ARK (P) for automatic transaxle and NEUTRAL for a manual transaxle. Set the parking brake and then remove the key . Clamp the steering wheel in a straight - ahead position with a clamping device designed for towing. Release the parkin[...]

4-31 4. Remove the following fuses from the left side of the instrument panel fuse block: A) RADIO SW , B) RADIO ACC, C) WIPER, H) BFC BA TT , I) PCM BA TT , K) IPC/BFC ACC. This will prevent your battery from draining while towing. See “Instrument Panel Fuse Block - Left” in Section 6 for the location of these fuses. 5. T urn the ignition swit[...]

4-32 Loading Y our V ehicle T wo labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry . The Tire - Loading Information label found on the rear edge of the driver ’ s door tells you the proper size, speed rating and recommended inflation pressures for the tires on your vehicle. It also gives you important information about the number [...]

4-33 CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or r ear GA WR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle. CAUTION: Things you put inside your vehicle[...]

4-34 T owing a T railer CAUTION: If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly , you can lose control when you pull a trailer . For example, if the trailer is too heavy , the brakes may not work well -- or even at all. Y ou and your passengers could be seriously injured. Y ou may also damage your vehicle; the resulting repairs would n[...]

4-35 If Y ou Do Decide T o Pull A T railer If you do, here are some important points: There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Con[...]

4-36 W eight of the T railer T ongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross V ehicle W eight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle. And if you tow a trailer , [...]

4-37 Hitches It’ s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, lar ge trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for hitches. Do not attach rental hitches or other bumper - type hitches to it. Use only a frame - [...]

4-38 During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working. Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer . This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. P[...]

4-39 When towing a trailer, the arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’ s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working. Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a l[...]

4-40 When Y ou 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. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks. Maintenance When[...]

5- 5-1 Section 5 Pr oblems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. 5 - 2 Hazard W arning Flashers 5 - 3 Other W arning Devices 5 - 3 Jump Starting 5 - 8 T owing Y our V ehicle 5 - 9 Engine Overheating 5 - 1 1 Cooling System 5 - 18 If a T ire Goes Flat 5 - 19 Changing a Flat T ire 5 - 28 Compact Spar[...]

5-2 Hazard W arning Flashers Y our hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Y our front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press the button on the instrument panel to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Y our hazard warning flashers work no matter what positio[...]

5-3 Other W arning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. 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 here to do it safely . CAUTION: Batteries can h[...]

5-4 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12 - volt battery with a negative ground system. 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 ca[...]

5-5 5. Find the positive (+) and negative ( - ) terminals on each battery . CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sur e the battery has enough water . Y ou don’t need to add water to the ACDelco battery insta[...]

5-6 7. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery . 8. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery . Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 9. Now connect the black negative ( - ) cable to the good battery’ s negati[...]

5-7 Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative cable doesn’ t go to the dead battery . It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery . 10. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery , but not near engine parts that move. The e[...]

5-8 T owing Y our V ehicle CAUTION: T o help avoid serious personal injury to you or others: Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured. Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by the tow truck. Always secur e the vehicle on ea[...]

5-9 Engine Overheating Y ou will find a coolant temperature gage and a low coolant warning light on your vehicle’ s instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant T emperature Gage” and “Low Coolant W arning Light” in the Index. If Steam Is Coming From Y our Engine CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly , even if you just open[...]

5-10 If No Steam Is Coming From Y our 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. Idle for long periods in traffic. T ow a trailer . If you get the overheat warning [...]

5-1 1 Cooling System When you decide it’ s safe to lift the hood, here’ s what you’ll see: A. Coolant Surge T ank with Pressure Cap B. Electric Engine Cooling Fan 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 el[...]

5-12 When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above FULL COLD. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator , water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. 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[...]

5-13 NOTICE: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty . NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important that you use only DEX - COOL (silicate - free) coolant. If coolant other than DEX - COOL is added to the system, prematur e engine, heater core or radiator corr osion may r esult. In addition, the engin[...]

5-14 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Surge T ank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above FULL COLD, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX - COOL coolant at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is cool before you do it. (See ?[...]

5-15 CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water , or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the pr oper coolant mixture will. Y our vehicle’ s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. W ith plain water or the wrong mixtur e, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t g[...]

5-16 1. Y ou can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. T urn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise (left) about two or two and one - half turns. If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. This will allow any pressure still left [...]

5-17 3. Then fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mixture, to FULL COLD mark. 4. W ith the coolant surge tank pressure cap of f, start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. W atch out for the engine cooling fans. By this time, the coolant level inside the coolant surge tank may be lower . If the le[...]

5-18 5. Then replace the pressure cap. Be sure the pressure cap is hand - tight. Check the level in the surge tank when the cooling system has cooled down. If the coolant isn’t at the proper level, repeat Steps 1 to 3 and reinstall the pressure cap or see your dealer . If a Tir e Goes Flat It’ s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’[...]

5-19 Changing a Flat Tir e If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. T urn 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. Y ou and they could be badly injured. Find a level place to change your tir[...]

5-20 Removing the Spare T ire and T ools The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. Pull the carpeting from the floor of the trunk. T urn the center retainer nut on the compact spare cover counterclockwise to remove it. Lift and remove the cover . See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare. T u[...]

5-21 The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheel wrench (B). Removing the Flat Tir e and Installing the Spare T ire 1. Remove the wheel nut caps (you may need to use the wheel wrench to loosen and remove them, if your fingers do not fit into this small area). 2. Then use the wheel wrench to loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove t[...]

5-22 3. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly into the notch in the vehicle’ s frame nearest the flat tire. Put the compact spare tire near you. 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 [...]

5-23 4. Raise the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit. 5. Remove all of the wheel nuts. 6. Remove the flat tire. 7. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the pa[...]

5-24 CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Y our wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 8. Install the compact spare tire. Replace the wheel and nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. T ighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. 9. Lower the vehicle[...]

5-25 10. T ighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence, as shown. CAUTION: Incorr ect wheel nuts or impr operly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the corr ect wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sur e to get new GM original equipment wheel nut[...]

5-26 Storing the Flat Tir e and T ools 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. Storing the flat tire in the compact spare tire compartment. Place the tire in the compar[...]

5-27 Storing the Spare T ire and T ools 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 . Replace the compact spare tire with a full[...]

5-28 Compact Spare T ire 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. The[...]

5-29 If Y ou’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. CAUTION: If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can expl[...]

6- 6-1 Section 6 Service and Appearance Car e 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. 6 - 2 Service 6 - [...]

6-2 Service Y our dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. W e hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. Y ou’ll get genuine GM parts and GM - trained and supported service people. W e hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Doing Y our Own Service W o[...]

6-3 CAUTION: Y ou 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 r eplacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sur e to use the pr oper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “Eng[...]

6-4 If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood emission control label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal speci[...]

6-5 Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty . T o check on fuel availabi[...]

6-6 While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door . T o 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. CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you [...]

6-7 When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp” in the Index. NOTICE: If [...]

6-8 Checking Things Under the Hood CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, winds[...]

6-9 Then go to the front of the vehicle and move the secondary hood release handle to the right. Lift the hood, release the hood prop rod from its retainer and put the hood prop into the slot in the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly . Then lift the hood to relieve pressure on the hood prop. Remove the hood p[...]

6-10 2.4L L4 (CODE T) Engine When you open the hood, you’ll see: A. Engine Coolant Surge T ank B. Engine Oil Fill Cap C. Engine Oil Dipstick D. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E. Brake Fluid Reservoir F . Engine Air Cleaner/Filter G. Battery H. W indshield W asher Fluid Reservoir[...]

6-1 1 3400 V6 (CODE E) Engine When you open the hood, you’ll see: A. Engine Coolant Surge T ank B. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir C. Engine Oil Fill Cap D. Engine Oil Dipstick E. Brake Fluid Reservoir F . Engine Air Cleaner/Filter G. Battery H. W indshield W asher Fluid Reservoir[...]

6-12 Engine Oil 3400 V6 Engine Only If the LOW OIL light appears on the instrument panel, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away . For more information, see LOW OIL light in the Index. Y ou should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder . Checking Engine Oil It’ s a good idea to check your engine oil [...]

6-13 3400 V6 Engine The engine oil dipstick handle is yellow . The dipstick on the 2.4L L4 engine is located at the rear of the engine. The dipstick on the 3400 V6 engine is located on the front of the engine, behind the fan. T urn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might[...]

6-14 When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD line, 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” in the Index. NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the[...]

6-15 3400 V6 Engine The 3400 V6 engine oil fill cap is on the front of the engine, behind the radiator . Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through. What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for th[...]

6-16 As shown in the chart, 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. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W - 50. NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified Fo[...]

6-17 Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol are all you will need for good performance and engine protection. When to Change Engine Oil Y our vehicle has a computer that lets you know when to change your engine oil. This is not based on mileage, but on engine revolutions and engine oper[...]

6-18 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter The air cleaner is located on the driver ’ s side of the engine compartment. T o check or replace the air filter: 1. Remove the screws that hold the cover on. 2. Lift off the cover . 3. Reinstall the air cleaner filter and replace the cover tightly . Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the[...]

6-19 Automatic T ransaxle Fluid It is not necessary to check the transaxle fluid level. A transaxle fluid leak is the only reason for fluid loss. If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealership service department and have it repaired as soon as possible. Y ou may also have your fluid level checked by your dealer or service center when you have[...]

6-20 Hydraulic Clutch The hydraulic clutch linkage in your vehicle is self - adjusting. The clutch master cylinder reservoir is filled with hydraulic clutch fluid. It is not necessary to regularly check clutch fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system. Adding fluid won’t correct a leak. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a pr[...]

6-21 A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX - COOL coolant will: Give freezing protection down to - 34 F ( - 37 C). Give boiling protection up to 265 F (129 C). Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important th[...]

6-22 NOTICE: If you use an improper coolant mixtur e, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be cover ed by your warranty . T oo much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator , heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year , have your dealer check your [...]

6-23 CAUTION: T urning the surge tank pressur e cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly . Never turn the surge tank pressur e cap -- even a little -- when the engine and radiator are hot. The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be[...]

6-24 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. Have the system inspected and repaired. How to Check Power Steering Fluid T urn the key off, let[...]

6-25 Windshield W asher Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer ’ s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding W asher Fluid Open the cap labeled W ASHE[...]

6-26 Brakes Brake Fluid Y our brake master cylinder reservoir is on the driver ’ s side of the engine compartment. It is filled with DOT - 3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear . When new[...]

6-27 United States Canada When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake warning light will come on. See “Brake System W arning Light” in the Index. What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT - 3 brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only . Refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenanc[...]

6-28 Brake W ear The GT Series has four - wheel disc brakes and the SE Series has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built - in wear indicators that make a high - pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except whe[...]

6-29 Brake Adjustment Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc brakes adjust for wear . If you rarely make a moderate or heavier stop, then your brakes might not adjust correctly . If you drive in that way , then -- very carefully -- make a few moderate brake stops about every 1,000 miles (1 600 km), so your brakes will adjust properly [...]

6-30 Bulb Replacement This section describes bulb changing procedures for some of your interior and exterior lamps. For bulb sizes, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. For any bulbs not listed in this section, contact your service department. Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch[...]

6-31 1. Remove the fasteners and the splash shield. 2. Lift the two speed clips.[...]

6-32 3. Lift the headlamp assembly forward, out of the mounting bracket. 4. T wist the bulb assembly retainer counterclockwise one - sixth of a turn and pull out the bulb assembly . 5. Unclip the bulb assembly from the wiring harness. 6. Reverse Steps 1 through 4 to replace the bulb assembly and headlamp housing. Front T urn Signal and Parking Lamp[...]

6-33 Rear T urn Signal and Stop/T aillamp Bulb Replacement For the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. 1. Disconnect the car go net in the trunk. 2. Pull back the trunk trim. 3. Remove the four wing nut bolts which fasten the taillamp lens to the vehicle. 4. Carefully remove the taillamp lens from the body and avoid scratching t[...]

6-34 Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. Here’ s how to remove the type with a Shepherd’ s Hook: 1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the windshield. 2. Push the release lever and slide the wiper assembly toward the driver ’ s side of the vehicle. 3. Install a new blade by reversing Steps 1 and [...]

6-35 Inflation -- Tir e Pressur e The T ire - Loading Information label, which is on the rear edge of the driver ’ s door, shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than 1 mile (1.6 km). NOTICE: Don’t let anyone tell you tha[...]

6-36 Tir e Inspection and Rotation T ires 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. See “When It’ s Time for New T ires” and “Wheel Replacement” later in this section for mor[...]

6-37 When It’ s Time for New T ires 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. Y ou need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: Y ou can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire. [...]

6-38 CAUTION: Mixing tires could cause you to lose contr ol while driving. If you mix tires of differ ent sizes or types (radial and bias - belted tires), the vehicle may not handle properly , and you could have a crash. Using tires of differ ent sizes may also cause damage to your vehicle. Be sure to use the same size and type tires on all wheels.[...]

6-39 T readwear 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. The relative performance of tires depends upon the[...]

6-40 Wheel Alignment and Tir e 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 n[...]

6-41 Used Replacement Wheels CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. Y ou 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. T ire Chains NOTICE: If your vehicle has P225/50R16 size tires, don’t [...]

6-42 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 warnin[...]

6-43 Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often. A soft brush may be used if stains are stubborn. If a ring forms on fabric after spot cleaning, clean the entire area immediately or it will set. Using Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner on Fabric 1. V acuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. 2. Always clean a whole trim pane[...]

6-44 Cleaning V inyl Use warm water and a clean cloth. Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. Y ou 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 . See your dealer for this product. Cleaning Leather Use a soft cloth with[...]

6-45 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. A void placing decals on the inside rear[...]

6-46 W ashing Y our V ehicle The best way to preserve your vehicle’ s finish is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water . Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun. Use a car washing soap. Don’t use strong soaps or chemical deter gents. Be sure to rinse the vehicle well, removing all soap residue completel[...]

6-47 Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years. Y ou can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible. Cleaning Aluminum Wheels (If Equipped) Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and [...]

6-48 Finish Damage Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away . Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into a major repair expense. Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch - up materials available from your dealer or other service outlets. Larger areas of finish damage can be corre[...]

6-49 GM V ehicle Care/Appearance Materials P ART NUMBER SIZE DESCRIPTION USAGE 994954 23 in. x 25 in. Polishing Cloth – W ax Treated Exterior polishing cloth 1050172 16 oz. (0.473 L) T ar and Road Oil Remover Removes tar, road oil and asphalt 1050173 16 oz. (0.473 L) Chrome Cleaner and Polish Use on chrome, stainless steel, nickel, copper and bra[...]

6-50 V ehicle 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. Y ou can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the V ehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certif[...]

6-51 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. Y our [...]

6-52 Instrument Panel Fuse Blocks There are two fuse panels for your vehicle. One is located on the driver ’ s side of the instrument panel and the other is located on the passenger ’ s side. Driver’ s Side Fuse Usage RADIO SW Steering Wheel Radio Switches RADIO ACC Radio WIPER W indshield W iper Motor , W asher Pump TRUNK REL/RF A/RADI O AMP[...]

6-53 Passenger’ s Side Fuse Usage INST LPS Interior Lamp Dimming CRUISE SW LPS Steering Wheel Cruise Control Switch Lamps CRUISE SW Steering Wheel Cruise Control Switches HV AC BLOWER HV AC Blower Motor CRUISE Cruise Control FOG LPS Fog Lamps INT LPS Interior Courtesy Lamps RADIO BA TT Radio SUNROOF Power Sunroof Circuit Br eaker Usage PWR WNDW P[...]

6-54 Engine Compartment Fuse Block The engine compartment fuse block is located on the driver ’ s side of the engine compartment, near the battery . Fuse Usage Maxi - Fuses 1 Ignition Switch 2 Left Electrical Center - Power Seats, Power Mirrors, Door Locks, T runk Release, Audio Amplifier , Remote Lock Control 3 Left Electrical Center - Stoplamps[...]

6-55 Fuse Usage 4 Right Electrical Center - Fog Lamps, Radio, Body Function Control Module, Interior Lamps 5 Ignition Switch 6 A.I.R. 7A n t i - Lock Brakes 8 Co o l in g Fa n # 1 Mini - Relays 9 Rear Defog 10 A. I .R . 11 An ti - Lock Brakes 12 C o o li ng F an # 1 13 HV AC Blower (Climate Control) 14 C o o li ng F an # 2 15 Cooling Fan Micro - Re[...]

6-56 Fuse Usage Mini - Fuses 47 Canister V ent V alve, Exhaust Oxygen Sensors 48 Fuel Pump Injectors 49 Generator 50 Right Headlamp 51 Left Headlamp 52 C o o li ng F an # 2 53 HV A C Bl ow e r (C l i m a t e C o n t ro l ) 54 No t U se d 55 Cooling Fan #2 Ground 56 Fuse Puller for Mini Fuses 57 No t U se d Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamps (Rear) Bu[...]

6-57 Capacities and Specifications Engine Crankcase 2.4L L4 Engine 4.0 quarts (3.8 L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3400 V6 Engine 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cooling System 2.4L L4 Engine 1 1.3 quarts (10.7 L) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3400 V6 Engine 13.6 quarts (12.9 L) . . . . . . . . . . . Refrigerant, Air Conditioning See refrig[...]

6-58 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Element 2.4L L4 AC T ype A - 1279C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3400 V6 AC T ype A - 1279C . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Engine Oil Filter 2.4L L4 AC T ype PF - 44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3400 V6 AC T ype PF - 47 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sp[...]

7- 7-1 Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Y our vehicle needs these services to retain its safety , dependability and emission control performance. 7 - 2 Introduction 7 - 3 How This Section is Organized 7 - 4 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services 7 - 14 Part B: Owner Checks and Services 7 [...]

7-2 Have you pur chased the GM Pr otection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your W arranty and Owner Assistance booklet, or your dealer for details. Introduction Y our V ehicle and the Envir onment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All[...]

7-3 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 qu[...]

7-4 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Y our Maintenance Schedule W e 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. Y ou 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 . Y ou[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-5 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). See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Periodic Mai[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-6 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 7,500 miles (12 500 km) since your last oil change. Under severe [...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-7[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-8[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-9 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Rotate tires. See “T ire 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 . An Emission Contr ol Service. [...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-10 37,500 Miles (62 500 km) Rotate tires. See “T ire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) Inspect engine air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary . An Emission Contr ol Service[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-1 1 52,500 Miles (87 500 km) Rotate tires. See “T ire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) Rotate tires. See “T ire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See fo[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-12 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) Inspect engine air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary . An Emission Contr ol Service. (See footnote .) Rotate tires. See “T ire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 82,50[...]

Scheduled Maintenance 7-13 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) Inspect spark plug wires (except 2.4L Code T L4 engine). An Emission Contr ol Service. Replace spark plugs. An Emission Contr ol Service. Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: – In heavy city traf fic where the outsid[...]

7-14 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, ma[...]

7-15 At Least T wice a Y ear 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. Have any[...]

7-16 At Least Once a Y ear Key Lock Cylinders Service Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant specified in Part D. Body Lubrication Service Lubricate all the door hinges and latches, including those for the hood and the trunk lid. Part D tells you what to use. More frequent lubrication may be required when exposed to a corrosive environ[...]

7-17 Automatic T ransaxle Shift Lock Control System Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly . If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below . 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface. 2. Firmly apply the parking brake (see [...]

7-18 Parking Brake and Automatic T ransaxle P ARK (P) Mechanism Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. Y ou or others could be injured and pr operty could be damaged. Make sure ther e is room in fr ont of your vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be r eady to apply the regular brake at once should the vehicle [...]

7-19 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). Y ou should let your dealer ’ s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs. Make sur e any necessary r epairs ar e completed at once. Proper pr[...]

7-20 Throttle System Inspection Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding, and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as needed. Replace any components that have high effort or excessive wear . Do not lubricate accelerator and cruise control cables. Brake System Inspection (Except GT Series) Inspect the complete system. Inspect b[...]

7-21 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 . T o determine the preferred v[...]

7-22 USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT Automatic T ransaxle DEXRON - III Automatic T ransmission Fluid. Key Lock Cylinders Multi - Purpose Lubricant, Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241 or equivalent). Hood Latch Assembly , Secondary Latch, Pivots, Spring Anchor and Release Pawl Lubriplate Lubricant Aerosol (GM Part No. 12346293 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting[...]

7-23 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 r[...]

7-24 Maintenance Record DA TE ODOMETER READING SER VICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED[...]

8- 8-1 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. 8 - 2 Pontiac Cares 8 - 3 What Makes Up Pontiac Cares? 8 - 3 Customer Satisfaction Procedure 8 - 5 Customer Assistance for T ext T[...]

8-2 Pontiac Cares W ith PONTIAC CARES, you are never more than a phone call away from having your concern taken care of. The PONTIAC CARES philosophy and elements are designed to make you realize that Pontiac recognizes you as a valuable customer , appreciates your purchase decision, and is dedicated to taking care of the most important person ... [...]

8-3 What Makes Up Pontiac Cares? A 3 year/36,000 mile (60 000 km) Bumper - to - Bumper W arranty Customer Assistance Roadside Assistance Courtesy T ransportation 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 [...]

8-4 Y our 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 . If your concern has [...]

8-5 The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court program administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus to settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle repairs or the interpretation of the New V ehicle Limited W arranty . Although you are required to resort to this informal dispute resolution program prior to filing any court action, use of[...]

8-6 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 (F o r T e x t T el ephone devices (TTYs)) Roadside Assistance: 1-800-268-6800 All Overseas Locations GMODC - Customer Communication Centre 169-007 1908 Col[...]

8-7 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 ar[...]

8-8 Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program Security While Y ou T ravel 1 - 800 - ROADSIDE (1 - 800 - 762 - 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 roa[...]

8-9 W e have quick, easy access to telephone numbers of the following additional services depending on your needs: Hotels Glass replacement T ire repair facilities Rental vehicle or taxis Airports or train stations Police, fire department or hospitals In many instances, mechanical failures are covered under Pontiac’ s comprehensive warranty . How[...]

8-10 Courtesy T ransportation Pontiac has always exemplified quality and value in its offering of motor vehicles. T o enhance your ownership experience, we and our participating dealers are proud to offer Courtesy T ransportation, a customer support program for new vehicles. The Courtesy T ransportation program is offered to retail purchase/lease c[...]

8-1 1 Courtesy Rental V ehicle 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. This requires that you sign and complete a rental agreem[...]

8-12 REPOR TING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED ST A TES 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 T raffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in addition to notifying General Motors. If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open[...]

8-13 REPOR TING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOT ORS In addition to notifying NHTSA (or T ransport 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 436008 Pontiac, MI 48343-6008 In Canada, please call us at 1 - 800 - 263 - 3777 (Engl[...]

8-14 CURRENT PUBLICA TIONS FOR 2000 PONTIAC SERVICE MANUALS Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body , etc. RET AIL SELL PRICE: $120.00 TRANSMISSION, TRANSAXLE, TRANSFER CASE UNIT REP AIR MANUAL This manual provides information on unit repair service pro[...]

8-15 PUBLICA TION FORM NUMBER Orders will be mailed within 10 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for postal service. If further information is needed, write to the address shown below or call 1-800-551-4123. Material cannot be returned for credit without packing slip with return information within 30 days of delivery . On returns, a re-sto[...]