1994 Pontiac Bonneville Owners Manual

system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged.

2. Get the vehicles close enough. so the jumper cables can reach, but, be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Pontiac, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.

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Problems on the Road

To Jump Start Your Pontiac: (CONK) You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in “P” (Park) or a manual transaxle in “N” (Neutral).

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Turn off all lights that aren’t needed, and radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio!

~~

~~

NOTICE: If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries.

. . 168

5. Find the positive (+) and negative (-)

terminals on each battery. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged, too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) and negative (-) will go to negative (-) or a metal engine part. Don’t connect (+) to (-) or you’ll get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts, too.

6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to

the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. There may be a red plastic cover over the positive cable end; remove it before attaching the jumper cable.

7. 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.

8. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) terminal. 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.

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Problems on the Road

12. Re'move the cables in reverse order to prevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don't touch each other or any other metal.

To Jump Start Your Pontiac: (CONT.)

9. Attach the cable at least 18 inches

(45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less.

16. Now start the vehicle with the good

battery and run the engine for a while. 11. Try to start the vehicle with the dead

battery. If it won't start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

0 170

Towing Your Pontiac

Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Pontiac. The usual towing equipment is: (A) Sling-type tow truck (B) Wheel-lift (C) Car carrier If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct.

Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers. When you call, tell the towing service: 0 That, if you have the SSE or SSEi

model, your vehicle cannot be towed from the front with sling-type equipment.

0 That your vehicle has front-wheel

drive. The make, model, and year of your vehicle. Whether you can still move the shift lever.

0 If there was an accident, what was

damaged.

When the towing service arrives, let the tow operator know that this manual , contains detailed towing instructions and illustrations. The operator may want to see them.

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key off. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. The transaxle should be in Neutral and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the front wheels, unless you must. If the vehicle must be towed on the front wheels, don’t go more than 35 mph (56 km/h) or farther than 50 miles (80 km) or your transaxle will be damaged. If these limits must be exceeded, then the front wheels have to be supported on a dolly.

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Problems on the Road

Towing Your Vehicle (COnrT.)

2. Across sling chains, position a 4x4 wood beam against the bottom of the radiator support behind the front bumper.

Towing from the Front-Vehicle Hook-up (EXCEPT SSE & SSEi) Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information on “Towing Your Pontiac” earlier in this section. 1. Attach T-hook chains into the bottom

slots in the cradle behind the front wheels, on both sides.

I

3. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each control arm.

Towing from the Front-Vehicle Hook-up (SSE & SSEi Only) Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information on “Towing Your Pontiac” earlier in this section. Attach T-hook chains into the slots just behind the front wheels on both sides.

NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipment or fascia/fog light damage will occur. Use wheel-lift or car carrier equipment (additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment). Use safety chains and wheel straps.

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NOTICE: Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle to ground or vehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, install a towing dolly and raise vehicle until adequate clearance is obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment. Do not attach winch cables or J-hooks to suspension components when using car carrier equipment. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots.

Problems on the Road

Towing from the Front-Vehicle Hook-up (SSE & SSEi Only) (CONT.) Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each control arm.

... 174

NOTICE: To help avoid damaging a vehicle during a tow over rough surfaces, install a towing dolly beneath the wheels that would otherwise be on the ground during the tow. This will increase clearance between the wheel-lift equipment and the underbody of the towed vehicle.

tiook=up

Towing from the Rear-Vehicle (ALL) Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information on “Towing Your Pontiac” earlier in this section.

Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes in the floor pan support rails just ahead of the rear wheels.

2. Position the lower sling crossbar

directly under the rear bumper.

3. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each lower control arm.

Problems on the Road H Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage or a warning light about a hot engine on your Pontiac’s instrument panel. See “Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Coolant Temperature Warning Light” in the Index.

If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine

NOTICE: If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty.

If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the 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: 0 Climb a long hill on a hot day. 0 Stop after high speed driving. 0 Idle for long periods in traffic.

Tow a trailer.

If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. Turn off your air conditioner. 2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the

highest fan speed and open the window as necessary.

3. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to “N”

(Neutral).

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about ten minutes. If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there’s still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for two or three minutes while you’re parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, TURN OFF THE ENGINE AND GET EVERYONE OUT OF THE VEHICLE until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.

11

Cooling System

When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: (A) Coolant recovery tank (B) Radiator pressure cap (C) Electric engine fan

177..

If there seems to be no leak, check to see if the electric engine fan is running. If the engine is overheating, the fan should be running. If it isn’t, your vehicle needs service. How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above the “FULL COLD’ mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and a proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mix.)

Problems on the Ro,ad

... .

Cooling System (CONT.) If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. The coolant level should be at or above the “FULL COLD’ mark. 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.

NOTICE: Engine damage from running your engine without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.

... 178

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the “FULL COLD’ mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mix directly to the radiator but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.

NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant.

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Problems on the Road

3. Fill the radiator with the proper mix,

up to the base of the filler neck.

2. Then keep turning the pressure cap,

but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator: 1. You can remove the radiator pressure

cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly to the left until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.

. . . 180

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to

the “FULL COLD” mark.

5. Put the cap back on the coolant

recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.

6. Start the engine and let it run until you

can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fan.

7. By this time the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be €ower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper mix through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

181 ...

Problems on the Road

If a Tire Goes FZat

It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane. A rear blowout, particularly on a curve, acts much like a skid and may require the same correction you’d use in a skid. In my rear blowout, remove your foot from the accelerator pedal. Get the vehicle under control by steering the way you want the vehicle to go. It may be very bumpy and noisy, but you can still steer. Sently brake to a stop, well off the road if possible. [ f a tire goes flat, the next section shows low to use your jacking equipment to :hange a flat tire safely.

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator: (CONT.) 8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this.

Air Inflator System

Some vehicles have an air inflator for use in bringing tires up to the proper pressure. The air inflator is located in the trunk. The “ON” switch will work even with the ignition off. The air inflator comes with a kit that includes a 20-foot hose and an air pressure gage, as well as instructions and special adapters for inflating things like an air mattress or basketball.

. . . 182

. .

Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers.

The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire. Please read all twenty steps in this section before beginning to change your tire(s). The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk.

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Problems on the Road

Changing a Flat Tire (CONI)

#. Open the jack storage cover by

twisting the knob 1/4 turn counterclockwise.

1. Turn the center retainer bolt on the spare tire cover counterclockwise to remove it, then lift the tire cover.

2. Remove the spare tire from the trunk.

4. Remove the jack and wheel wrench. 5. Next, remove the wheel or nut cap covers for your particular vehicle.

. . . 184

5a. If you have steel wheels with full

plastic wheel covers, loosen each nut cap using the wheel wrench. Note: Nut caps are captured in the cover and will not remove completely.

5b. If you have aluminum wheels with

metal nut caps remove them.

5c. If you have aluminum wheels in which the center cover hides the wheel nuts, remove the center cover by using the flat end of the wrench to pry it off. Do not drop the cover or lay it face down, as it could become scratched or damaged. Do not use a hammer or mallet on this type of cover.

Problems on the Road

6.

Changing a Flat Tire (CONT.) Attach the wheel wrench to the jack, and rotate the wrench clockwise to raise the jack head a few inches.

7. Near each wheel well is a notch in the frame into which to put the jack head. The front notch is 10 inches back fron the front wheel well. The rear notch iy 8 inches forward from the rear wheel well. The wheel wrench has these 8 and 10 inch distances stamped on the handle. Use the wheel wrench to measure to the notch by flipping the socket into the handle, then measure from the socket end of the wrench.

I. Position the jack and raise the jack

head until it fits firmly on the ridge in the vehicle’s frame nearest the flat tire. Do not raise the vehicle yet. Put the compact spare tire near you.

- .. .

9. If your wheel has the special locking

lug nut, use the special adapter supplied with your vehicle to remove the locking wheel nut by turning counterclockwise.

1O.Use the wheel wrench to loosen the wheel nuts, but don't remove them.

11 .Raise the vehicle by rotating tbe

wheel wrench clockwise on thejack shaft. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough mom for the spare tire to fit.

. .5 $I' . 8. ':C. :i . -.% , .*.

187.

Problems on the Road

Changing a Flat Tire (CONT.)

NOTICE: Raising your vehicle with the jack inlproperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle t o fdl off the jack. Be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising your vehicle.

12. Remove all the wheel nuts and take

off the flat tire.

13. Remove any corrosion from the wheel

bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.

14. Place the spare wheel on the

mounting surface.

15. Replace the wheel nuts with the

rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Make sure each wheel stud is centered in each wheel hole while tightening the nuts. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held flat against the hub.

16. Lower the vehicle by rotating the

wheel wrench counterclockwise on the jack. Lower the jack completely.

17. In a criss-cross sequence, tighten the

wheel nuts firmly.

189 ...

I

Problems on the Road

Changing a Flat Tire (CONT.)

Don't try to put the wheel cover on the compact spare tire. It won't fit. Store the wheel cover in the trunk until you have replaced the compact spare tire with a regular tire.

NOTICE: Wheel covers won't fit on your compact spare. If you try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare, you could damage the cover or the spare.

18. When you reinstall the full size whee :1 and tire, you install the wheel cover or nut caps at this point.

. . . 190

18a. When re-installing the full plastic wheel cover, align the valve stem symbol (which is molded into the back side of the cover) with the valve stem. Start the nut cap by pushing it onto the lug nut with the wheel wrench. Tighten the plastic caps until they're snug using the wheel wrench. Then continue tightening 1/4 turn (90"). Do not overtighten.

18b. When re-installing the decorative

nut caps on aluminum wheels, tighten the caps until they're snug with the wheel wrench. Then continue tightening 1/4 turn for plastic caps, or 1/8 turn (45") for steel caps.

!l

1 8 ~ . When re-installing the center cover,

do not use a hammer or mallet, as they could damage the cover.

19. Store the flat tire as far forward in the

trunk as possible. Store the jack and wheel wrench in their compartment in the trunk.

20. The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Use the steps listed in this section for reinstalling the full size wheel and tire.

Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare 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 compact spare is made to perform well at posted speed limits for distances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km). The compact spare is made to go up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so you can finish your trip and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again. Your anti-lock brake system warning light may come on when you are driving with a compact spare. See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

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Problems on the Road

Compact Spare Tire (CONK)

NOTICE: Don’t take your compact spare through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other parts of your vehicle.

If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow

What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.

Don’t use your compact spare on some other vehicle. And don’t mix your compact spare or wheel with other wheels or tires. They won’t fit. Keep your spare and its wheel together.

NOTICE: Tire chains won’t fit your compact spare. Using them will damage your vehicle and destroy the chains too. Don’t use tire chains on your compact spare.

I . . 192

NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle.

Rocking Your Vehicle to Get it Out: First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. If your vehicle has traction control, you should turn the system off. See “Traction Control System” in the Index. Then shift back and forth between “R” (Reverse) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible. Release the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal when the transaxle is in gear. If that doesn’t get you out after a few tries, you may need to be towed out. If you do need to be towed out, see “Towing Your Pontiac” in the Index.

Service & Appearance Care

Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to get the proper Pontiac Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your Pontiac than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service Publications” in the Index. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see “Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Pontiac” in the Index. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See “Maintenance Record” in the Index.

111 Sewice Your Pontiac dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks.

194

1 . .

~~

NOTICE: If you try to do your own service work without knowing enough about it, your vehicle could be damaged.

In the U.S. and Canada, it’s easy to be sure you get the right kind of gasoline (unleaded). You’ll see “UNLEADED” right on the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck. Be sure the posted octane is at least 87. If the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your mgine. [f you’re using fuel rated at 87 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal, and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem.

3800 Supercharged Engine (Code 1): Use premium unleaded gasoline rated at 91 octane or higher. You may use middle grade or regular unleaded gasolines, but your vehicle may not accelerate as well. The gasoline you use should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels

should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S. and Canada, it’s easy to be sure you get the right kind of gasoline (unleaded). You’ll see “UNLEADED” right on the pump. And only unleaded nozzles will fit into your vehicle’s filler neck. Be sure the posted octane for premium is at least 91 (at least 89 for middle grade and 87 for regular). If the octane is.less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad enough, it can damage your engine. If you’re using fuel rated at 9 1 octane or higher and you still hear heavy knacking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem. What about gasoline with blending materials that contain oxygen (oxygenates), such as MTBE or alcohol?

Fuel

The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter for your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of your instrument panel. (See “Vehicle Identification Number” in the Index.)

3800 Engine (Code L): Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D48 14 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel.

Service & Appearance Care

MTBE is “methyl tertiary-butyl ether.” Fuel that is no more than 15% MTBE is fine for your vehicle. Ethanol is ethyl or grain alcohol. Properly-blended fuel that is no more than 10% ethanol is fine for your vehicle Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol.

NOTICE: Fuel that is more than 5% methanol is bad for your vehicle. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty. And even at 5% or less, there must be “cosolvents” and corrosion preventers in this fuel to help avoid these problems.

. . 196

Gasolines for Cleaner Air Your use of gasoline with deposit control additives will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. That helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly. It’s good for your vehicle, and you’ll be doing your part for cleaner air. Many gasolines are now blended with oxygenates. General Motors recommends that you use gasolines with these blending materials, such as MTBE and ethanol. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high carbon monoxide levels. In addition, some gasoline suppliers are now producing reformulated gasolines. These gasolines are specially designed to reduce vehicle emissions. General Motors recommends that you use reformulated gasoline. By doing so, you can help clean the air, especially in those parts of the country that have high ozone levels. You should ask your service station operators if their gasolines contain deposit control additives and oxygenates, and if they have been reformulated to reduce vehicle emissions.

Countries

If you plan on driving in another country outside the U.S. or Canada, unleaded fuel may ‘be hard to find. Do not use leaded gasoline. If you use even one tankful, your emission controls won’t work well or at all. With continuous use, spark plugs can get fouled, the exhaust system can corrode, and your engine oil can deteriorate quickly. Your vehicle’s oxygen sensor will be damaged. All of that means costly repairs that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. To check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you’ll be driving.

You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you’re going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

General Motors Overseas Distribution Corporation, North American Export Sales (NAES) 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

1 Fuel Door Lock (omohf) On SSE and SSEi models equipped with the Theft-Deterrent System option, the fuel door is locked and unlocked together with the power door locks. Therefore, to unlock the fuel filler door, you may use the outside door key lock, the inside power door lock button, or the Remote Keyless Entry key chain transmitter. To unlock the fuel door, unlock all doors. If the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter is used, the unlock button must be pressed twice.

1 Filling Your Tank The cap is behind a hinged door on the left side of your vehicle.

While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door.

To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise).

197...

~

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NOTICE: Prying on a locked fuel filler door can damage it. Use. the remote fuel door manual release located in the trunk.

Service & Appearance Care

Filling Your Tank (CONT)

Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Pontiac” in the Index. When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until you hear at least three clicks.

NOTICE: If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit or have proper venting, and your fuel tank and emissions system might be damaged.

m .

198

IL

Fuel Door Manual Release

f your vehicle has a fuel door lock, the uel door can be opened manually in case If an electrical power failure. To do so, irst open the trunk. The release nechanism is on the driver’s side of the ,chicle, at the top of the trunk ompartment. Pull the tab rearward to r( elease the fuel door.

rn Checking Things Under the Hood

The following sections tell you how to check fluids, lubricants and important parts under the hood.

Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the hood release handle inside the vehicle.

Then go to the front of the vehic1e':and pull up on the underhood release. ' , fib$ :. Lift the hood. . i&,:: . -,.. .,:#k

- 4 ; .

..

, -

199 ...

Service & Appearance Care

Underhood Light Your parking lights or headlights must be on for the underhood light to function when you open the'hood..

Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly.

3800 Engine (CODE L) When you open the hood, you'll see: 1. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank 2. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir 3. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir 6. Air Cleaner 7. Engine Oil Dipstick 8. Engine Oil Fill Cap 9. Radiator Pressure Cap 10. Battery

I .

I 5 .. I ;;$ " :. 1. ,.:.;

201 ..*

Service & Appearance Care

3800 SC Engine (CODE I ) When you open the hood, you’ll see: 1. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank 2. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick 3. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir 4. Brake Fluid Reservoir 5. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir 6. Air Cleaner 7. Engine Oil Dipstick 8. Engine Oil Fill Cap 9. Radiator Pressure Cap lo. Battery

0 202

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), works with a vacuum control to regulate the increased pressure required during specific driving conditions. When this increased pressure or boost is not desired, such as during idling and light throttle cruising, the excess air that the Supercharger is pumping is routed,through a bypass. All of these controls, working together provide high performance character and fuel efficiency in the3800 V6 Supercharged engine. The power steering pump uses a Remote reservoir mounted on the throttle w d cruise control cable bracket. See “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index for when you should check the fluid:

’

3800 Supercharged (L67) Engine (OPTION)

Your Bonneville may have a 3800 Supercharged engine. The Supercharger is a device which is designed to pump more air into the engine than it would normally use. This air mixed with fuel, creates increased engine power. Since the Supercharger is a pump and is driven from an engine accessory drive belt, increased pressure is available at all driving conditions,

~~

~~~

~~

~~~~

Engine Accessory Belt The 3800 (L27) engine uses an engine accessory belt. This diagram shows the features connected by the belt routing. See “Maintenance Schedule’’ in the Index for when to check the belt. A. Power Steering B. Crank C. Coolant Pump D. Air Conditioning E. Alternator F. Tensioner

Service & Appearance Care

1. 2. A. B. C. D. E.

Front Belt Back belt Generator Power Steering Pump Crank Supercharger Coolant Pump Air Conditioning

tngine Accessory Belt ‘he Supercharged 3800 engine uses two ccessory drive belts. One belt drives the enerator and the power steering pump. ‘he second belt drives the supercharger, oolant pump and air conditioning ompressor. Each belt has its own msioner and idler pulley.

See “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index for when to check the accessory drive belts and Supercharger oil level. Have your dealer check the oil level in the Supercharger.

. . 204

Supercharger Oil

Unless you are technically qualified and have the proper tools, you should let your dealer or a qualified service center perform this maintenance. When to Check Check oil level every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or every 36 months. What Kind of Oil to Use See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index and use only the recommended oil. How to Check and Add Oil Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the engine to cool 2 to 3 hours after running.

WIRING HARNESS SHIELD

CHECK OIL

LEVEL

Remove the wiring harness shield. Clean the area around the oil fill plug before removing it. Remove the oil fill plug using a 3/16 Allen wrench. The oil level is correct when it just reaches the bottom of the threads of the inspection hole. Replace the oil plug with the O-ring in place. Torque to 10 Nom (88 Ib. in.) Replace the wiring harness shield.

Engine Oil

f the “CHECK OIL LEVEL” light on he instrument panel comes on, it means tl ‘ou need to check your engine oil level ight away. For more information, see CHECK OIL LEVEL” light in the ndex. You should check your engine oil :vel regularly; this is an added reminder. 1f I1 t’s a good idea to check your engine oil very time you get fuel. In order to get an ccurate reading, the oil must be warm nd the vehicle must be on level ground.

L C

Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level. To Check, Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it %with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip lower, and check the level.

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Service & Appearance Care

NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.

Just 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 Oil to Use Beginning midyear 1993, oils of the proper quality for your vehicle will be identified with this new “starburst” symbol. The “starburst” symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API), and is suitable for use in your gasoline engine. You should look for this on the front of the oil container, and use only oils that display this new symbol. You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the following chart:

When to Add Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD line, then you’ll need to add some oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.

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As shown in the chart, SAE 1OW-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 5W-30 if it’s going to be colder than 60°F (16°C) before your next oil change. When it’s very cold, you should use SAE 5W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 1OW-40 or SAE 20W-50. If you cannot find oils with the new “starburst” symbol on the front of the container, you should look for and use oils containing the following three things:

SHor SG “SH” or “SG’ must be on the oil container, either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as “SH/CD,” “SH,SG,CD,” “SG/CD,” etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality.

Recommended SAE Viscosity

Grade Engine Oils

For best fuel economy and cold starting, select the lowest SAE viscosity grade oil for the expected temperature range.

LOOK FOR fi

HOT

WEATHER

ONE OF THESE -. FOR

LABELS P c

SAE 1 OW-30 PREFERRED

SAE 5W-30

IF NEITHER SAE 5W-30 NOR SAE 1OW-30 GRADE OILS ARE AVAILABLE, SAE 30 GRADE MAY BE USED AT TEMPERATURES ABOVE 40 DEGREES F (4 DEGREES C). DO NOT USE SAE 1OW-40, SAE 2OW-50 OR ANOTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED.

SAE low-30

0 Energy Conserving I1

Oils with these words on the container will help you save fuel.

These three things are usually included in a doughnut shaped logo (symbol) on most containers. If you cannot find oils with the “starburst” symbol, you should look for oils with the doughnut shaped symbol, containing the three things noted previously.

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Service & Appearance Care

Engine Oil Additives I Don‘t add anything to your oil. Your Pontiac dealer is ready to advise if you [hink something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil See if any one of these is true for you: 0 Most trips are less than 4 miles

(6 km).

0 It’s below freezing outside and most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km). 0 The engine is at low speed most of the time (as in door-to-door delivery, or in stop-and-go traffic). 0 You tow a trailer often. 0 Most trips are through dusty places. If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your giJ and filter every 3,000 miles ( 5 000 km) or 3 months -- whichever comes first. (See “Change Oil Indicator” in the Index.)

If none of them is true, change the oil every 7,500 miles ( 12 500 km) or 12 months -- whichever comes first. Change the filter at the first oil change and at every other oil change after that. Engine Coolant Heater (Engine Block Heater) An engine coolant heater can be a big help if you have to park outside in very cold weather, 0°F (-ISOC) or colder. If your vehicle has this option, see “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer‘? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products.)

What Kind of Oil to Use ‘CONT.)

NOTICE: If you use oils that do not have either the “starburst” symbol or an API SH or SG designation, you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty.

GM Goodwrench@ oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil) meets all the requirements fc your vehicle.

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Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oil from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a proplem properly disposing of your used oil; ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help. Air Cleaner

Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

To Check or Replace (3800 Engine): 1. Unscrew the three wing screws in the

housing cover and pull back.

NOTICE: If the air cleaner is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner in place when you’re driving.

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Service & Appearance Care

Air Cleaner (CONT.)

2. Unscrew the clamp on the air intake hose where the hose attaches to the throttle body near the top of the engine. Detach the hose from the throttle body, then pull back the rear of the housing cover.

3. Remove the air filter. 4. Be sure to install the air filter and

replace the cover tightly.

5. Reattach the air intake hose and

tighten the clamp.

To Check or Replace (3800 Supercharged Engine): 1. Unsnap the three clips in the housing

cover and pull back.

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2. Unscrew the clamp on the air intake hose where the hose attaches to the throttle body near the top of the engine. Detach the hose from the throttle body, then pull back the rear of the housing cover.

3. Remove the air filter, 4. Be sure to install the air filter and

replace the cover tightly.

5. Reattach the air intake hose and

tighten the clamp.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid

When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed..Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to. change your fluid. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at a Pontiac Dealership Service Department.

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Service & Appearance Care How to Check (cow.) If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it's colder than 50°F ( 10°C), you may have to drive longer.

NOTICE: Too much or too little fluid can damage your transaxle. Too much can mean that some of the fluid could come out and fall on hot engine parts or exhaust system parts, starting a fire. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid.

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: 0 When outside temperatures are above

90°F (32°C).

0 At high speed for quite a while. 0 In heavy traffic -- especially in hot

weather.

To Check the Fluid Level

Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in "P" (Park). With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in "P" (Park). Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.

Then. Without Shutting Off the Engine, Follow These Steps: 1. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a

clean rag or paper towel.

2. Push it back in all the way, wait three

seconds and then pull it back out again.

0 After adding fluid, recheck the fluid

level as described under “How to Check.”

0 When the correct fluid level is

obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way. Engine Coolant

..

3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area.

4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable

range, push the dipstick back in all the way.

How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants’’ in the Index.

If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough fluid at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a pint (OSL). Don’t overfill. We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXR0N’-I11 or DEXRON@-IIE, because fluids with that label are made especially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON@-I11 or DEXR0N’-IIE is not covered by your new vehicle warranty.

The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is 1 . 0 ~ . If you have a problem with engine overheating, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. The proper coolant for your Pontiac will:

Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to ,262”F ( 128 “C). Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights work as they should.

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Service & Appearance Care

Engine Coolant (CONT.)

What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets “GM Specification 1825-M,” which won’t damage aluminum parts. You can also use a recycled coolant conforming to GM Specification 1825-M with a complete coolant flush and refill. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.

NOTICE: If you use an improper coolant mix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.

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Adding Coolant

To Check Coolant When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at “FULL COLD” or a little higher. When your engine is warm, ‘.he level should be up to “FULL HOT” or 1 little higher.

I'o Add C,oolant [f you need more coolant, add the proper mix at the coolant recovery tank.

L LOW COOLANT

If this light comes on, it means you're lo\ on coolant.

Add coolant mix at the recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it.

Radiator Pressure Cap I NOTICE:

Your radiator cap is a 15 psi ( 105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the overflow tube on the radiator filler neck.

When you replace your radiator pressure cap, an AC@ cap is recommended.

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Service & Appearance Care

Thermostat

Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. When you replace your thermostat, an AC@ thermostat is recommended.

Power Steering Fluid

How To Check Power Steering Fluid Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick.

When the engine compartment is hot, the level should be at the “H” mark. When the engine compartment is cool, the level should be at the “C” mark.

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What to Add Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index.

NOTICE: When adding power steering fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals.

NOTICE:

When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid. Fill your washer fluid tank only 3/4 full when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don’t use radiator antifreeze in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.

Windshield Washer Fluid To Add Open the cap labeled “WASHER FLUID ONLY.” Add washer fluid until the bottle is full.

Brakes

It is

Brake Master Cylinder Your brake master cylinder is here. filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in your master cylinder might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t

217...

Service & Appearance Care Brake Master Cylinder What to Add (CONK) When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top Supreme 11 off’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid container only, and always clean the brake when your linings are worn, then you’ll fluid reservoir cap before removing it. have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system.

(GM Part No. 1052535).

NOTICE: e Don’t let someone put in the

Brake Wear Your Pontiac has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly).

wrong kind of fluid. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Brake fluid can damage paint, so be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.

When your brake fluid falls to a low level, your brake warning light will come on. A chime will sound if you try to drive with this warning light on. See “Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

. . .218

NOTICE: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair.

r_

Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Your rear drum brakes don’t have wear indicators, but if you ever hear a rear brake rubbing noise, have the rear brake linings inspected. Also, the rear brake drums should be removed and inspected each time the tires are removed for rotation or changing. When you have the front brakes replaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets.

Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes moderately, with or without the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear. Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake parts in them, as your Pontiac does when it is new. When

you replace parts of your braking system -- for example, when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new mes put in -- be sure you get new genuine GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change, for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts.

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Service & Appearance Care

Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Jump Starting For jump starting instructions, see “Jump Starting” in the Index .

Halogen Bulbs

Headlight Bulb Replacement For the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. 1. Remove the two fasteners from the

top of the headlight housing.

2. Lift the entire tilt it forward.

headlight housing and

Battery

Every new Pontiac has a Delco Freedom@ battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom@ battery. Get one that has the catalog number shown on the original battery’s label. Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, take off the black, negative (-) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down.

3. Twist the bulb assembly 1/6 turn and

pull out the bulb assembly.

4. Unclip the bulb assembly from the

wiring harness and replace the bulb assembly.

Reverse steps 1-3 to replace the bulb assembly and headlight housing. Make sure the tab (“A”) is locked into the slot (“B”) in the radiator support before tightening the screws.

Taillight Bulb Replacement For the type of bulb, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index. 1.

In the trunk, remove the two plastic nuts holding the carpeting in pjace. Pull the carpet away from the rear corner of the trunk.

2.

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Service & Appearance Care

Taillight Bulb Seplacement (CONT.) I. Rotate the bulb housing 1/8 turn and

remove it.

1. To remove bulb, push in and rotate it

counterclockwise. i. Replace the bulb. i. Reverse the steps to reassemble the

taillight.

:og Light Bulb qeplacement F you have fog lights, don’t change your lg light bulbs unless you have the proper iming equipment. See your Pontiac ealer if you have any further questions.

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Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. Here’s how to remove the type with a release clip: 1.

Pull the windshield wiper arm away from the windshield. Lift the release clip with a screwdriver and pull the blade assembly off the wiper arm. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm.

2.

3.

Loading Your Vehicle Two 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 of people that can be in your vehicle and the total weight that you can carry. This weight is called the Vehicle Capacity Weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo, and all nonfactory-installed options.

And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. Don’t carry more than 176 Ibs. (80 kg) in your trunk.

The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating). The GVWR includes the weight of the v,ehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for ,either the front or rear axle.

Service & Appearance Care 4 Tires We don’t make tires. Your new vehicle comes with high quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. These tires are warranted by the tire manufacturers and their warranties are delivered with every new Pontiac. If your spare tire is a different brand than your road tires, you will have a tire warranty folder from each of these manufacturers.

Inflation - Tire Pressure

The Tire-Loading Information label which is on the rear edge of the driver’s door shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires, when they’re cold. “Cold”

224

means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than a mile.

NOTICE: Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tires don’t have enough air (underinflation) you can get: 0 Too much flexing 0 Too much heat 0 Tire overloading 0 Bad wear 0 Bad handling 0 Bad fuel economy. If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get: 0 Unusual wear 0 Bad handling 0 Rough ride 0 Needless damage from road

hazards.

When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa).

How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. Simply looking at the tires will.not tell you the pressure, especially if you have radial tires -- which may look properly inflated even if they’re underinflated. If your tires have valve caps, be sure to put them back on. They help prevent leaks by keeping out dirt and moisture. Tire lnspecfion and Rotafion To make your tires last longer, have them inspected and rotated at the mileages recommended in the Maintenance Schedule. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

X5028

Use this rotation pattern. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressure as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” in the Index.

225 . .

If you ever replace your tires with those not having a TPC Spec number, make sure they are the same size, load range, speed rating and construction type (bias, bias-belted or radial) as your original tires.

Service, & Appearance Care

The tread or sidewall is cracked, cut or snagged deep enough to show cord or fabric.

0 The tire has a bump, bulge or split. The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage.

Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires instaljed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way, your vehicle will zontinue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC number will be followed by a “MS” (for mud and snow).

When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining, You need a new tire i f

You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire. You can see cord or fabric showing through the tire’s rubber.

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Uniform Tire Quality Grading The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.)

Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly