1995 Pontiac Bonneville Owners Manual

The 1995 Pontiac Bonneville Owner’s Manual

This section explains how to start and operate your Pontiac.

4-1 Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. 5-1

1-1 This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. 2-1

Seats and Restraint Systems .......................................................... Features and Controls ............................................................... Comfort Controls and Audio Systems .................................................. This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system. YourDrivingandtheRoad ........................................................... ProblemsontheRoad ............................................................... This section tells you what to dorif you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or engine overheating, etc. Service and Appearance Care ......................................................... Maintenanceschedule ............................................................... Customer Assistance Information ..................................................... This section tells you when to perform’vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. This section tells you how to contact Pontiac for assistance and how to get service publications. Index ............................................................................... It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects’’ on page 8-4. Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every jsubject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

Here the rrmmal tells you how to keep your Pontiac running properly and loolung good.

3-1

,6-1

7-1

8-1

9-1

I PONTIAC 11

GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, PONTIAC and the PONTIAC Emblem are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Pontiac Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Pleas’e keep this manual in your Pontiac, SO it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual m it so the new owner can use it.

We support voluntary technician certification.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN GERTIFLCATION THROUGH

National institute for SERVICE

AUTOMOTIVE EXCELLENCE

fi

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: A w propriktaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en fraqais chez votre concessionaire ou au DGN Marketing Services Ltd., 1500 Bonhill Rd., Mississauga, Ontario LST 1C7.

Litho in U.S.A. Part No, 10254645 B First Edition ii

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1994 All Rights Reserved

How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. Ths will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures

, and words work together to explain things quickly.

Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box with gray background and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

In the gray caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt. You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this

This safety symbol means “Don’t,’’ “Don’t do this,” or “Don’t let this happen.”

iii

Vehicle Damage Warnings A h , 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 somethmg 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 to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You'll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use yellow for cautions, blue for notice's and the words

iv

Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.

For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

FUSE

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Fe -- CHARGING I-1

ENGINE COOLANT TEMP

BATTERY

SEAT

DOOR LOCK UNLOCK

FASTEN

BELTS

TURN SIGNALS

WIPER

WINDsHIELDw

(0)

43

CONDITIONING AIR

RADIO VOLUME

SYSTEM

BRAKE

DEFROSTER

POWER WINDNOW

,\I/,

WINDOW DEFOGGER VENTILATING 4 FAN CI

BEAM = =o $0

LAMPSoR HIGH

FOG LAMPS

RADIATOR COOLANT

FUEL @

ENGINE OIL PRESSURE W

45 ANTI-LOCK (@)

TEMP OIL

BRAKE

TRUNK

RELEASE t LIGHTER n

SPEAKER

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BAllERY

NOTES

vi

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

Here you'll find information about the seats in your Pontiac and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat

Pull up on the control bar under the front of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the bar and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

1-1

Power Seat (Option)

Adjustable Support Seat (Option)

To adjust the power seats on some models:

On some models,you’Il find the controls on the center console. Slide the selector switch to “L” or “R’ to choose the front seat

Adjusts the seat forward or back.

Ad & Adjusts the seatback ts an upright or re :clin .ed

Adjusts the seat up or down.

position. Don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

Front Control: Raise the front of the seat by holding the switch up. Lower the front of the seat by holding the switch down. Center Control: Move the seat forward by pressing the control toward the right, or backward by pressing it toward the left. Move the seat higher by holding the control up. Lower the seat by holding the control down. Rear Control: Raise the rear of the seat by holding the switch up. Lower the rear of the seat by holding the switch down.

1-2

Reclining Front Seatbacks

l)i # Adjusts the position of the seatback side bolsters.

Tilts the rear of the seat up or down.

Tilts the front of the seat up or down.

Lumbar Controls: d! Reshapes the lower back area of the seat. Jv Reshapes the middle back area of the seat. 4 Reshapes the upper back area of the seat.

8,

Lift the lever to release the seatback, then tilt the seatback forward or backward as desired. Release the lever to lock the seatback in place.

1-3

But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

1-4

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. On some models, the head restraints tilt forward and rearward also.

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 Inflatable Restraint, or “air bag” system.

Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light’’ in the Index.) In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You 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 between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

1-5

Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.

Put someone on it.

Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.

1-6

Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.

The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield .. .

1-7

or the instrument panel .-.

1-8

or the safety belts ! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.

”

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q= A:

Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted. Why don’t they just put in air bags so people won’t have to wear safety belts? Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in more of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

A:

@’ If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from

home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You 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 accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And children and babies. If a child will be riding in your Pontiac, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.

there are different rules for smaller

1-9

Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted.

4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ at the end of ths section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1-10

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 should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash.

Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.

To move it down, squeeze the release handle and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the bottom of the release handle. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release handle to make sure it has locked into pasition Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and-neck, but not falling off your shoulder.

1-11

@ What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly

as much protection this way.

1-12

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

1-13

What's wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

1-14

What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

1-15

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.

Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System (SIR) This part explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restsaint (SIR), or air bag, system. Your Pontiac has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

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 ve@cle.

1-16

There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows INFLfXTABLE RESTRAINT.

The system checks the air bag’s 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 Works

Where is the air bag? The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

1-18

The right front passenger's air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger's side.

In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle darnage is only one indication of this. What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient seventy, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag, and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.

When should an air bag M a t e ? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to. severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. 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 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The ~ . e s h ~ L d level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above m below this range. If your vehicle strikes’something that willmove ar d e f m , such as a parked car, th6 thre@mld level will be higher, The air bag is not designed to’inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts, because Mation would not help the occupant.

How does an air bag restrain? In modmate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers and rear and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward. the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions. What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in 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 short time, but the part of the bag that comes into contact with you will not be hot to the touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

1-20

When an air bag inflates, th This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyon vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do If you have breathing problems but can’t get of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, fresh air by opening a

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur f r m the right Eront passenger air bag.

The air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate; you’ll need some new parts for your air hag. system. If you Bon’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new sys- wiIl include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service md for your vehicle cov’ers the need to replace other parts.

Your vehicle is equipped with a diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records information about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Pontiac Air bags affect how your Pontiac should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your Pontiac dealer and the 1995 Bonneville Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service Publications” in the Index. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

1-21

Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible throughout the pregnancy.

The best way to protect the fetus is t’o protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. FOT pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. If your vehicle has a center passenger position, be sure to use the correct buckle when buckling your lap-shoulder belt. If you find that the latch plate will not go fully into the buckle, see if you are using the buckle for the center passenger position.

’

1-22

Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt If your vehicle has front and rear bench seats, someone can sit in the center positions.

When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.

1-23

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.

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 vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1-24

Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

When the lap belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. 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 the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

!. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

Don’t let it get twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure,

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies

1-25

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 should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.

1-26

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults, The comfort guides pull the shoulder belts away from the neck and head.

seatback and the interior body, about half-way down the edge of the seatback. Here is how you should install the comfort guides on the shoulder belts: 1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge ~f

the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip.

a\'

There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat. You will find them tucked in between the

2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic

cord must be under the belt.

1-27

3. There is a “button stop” on the shoulder belt that

keeps the belt from going too far into the retractor at the top of the seatback. Pull the shoulder belt out of the retractor, and place the guide over the belt. Make sure that the guide is between the button stop on the belt and the retractor. Insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.

5. Buckle the belt around the child, and make sure that

both the lap belt and the shoulder belt are secured properly. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. See “Safety Belts, Rear Seat Passengers” in the Index.

4. 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.

1-28

Smaller Children and Babies

To remove and store the comfort guides, just perform these steps in reverse order. Squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed. Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.

1-29

A

1-30

Child Restraints Be sure to follow the instructions for the restraint. You in a may find these instructions on the restraint itself or booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Where to Put the Restraint

1-31

to secure the child

Wherever you install it, be sure restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.

If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Pontiac dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it.

1-32

For cars first sold in Canada, child restraints with a top strap must be anchored according to Canadian Law. Your dealer can obtain the hardware kit and install it for you, or you may install it yourself using the instructions provided in the kit. Use the tether hardware kit available from the dealer. The hardware and installation instructions were specifically designed for this vehicle. Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position

2.

3.

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1.

Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. Pick up the latch plate, and run the Pap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructionk will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

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. hll the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the

retractor to set the lock.

1-34

6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt into the retractor

while you push down on the child restraint.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap belt.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

1-35

1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch

plate and pulling it along the belt.

4. Run the vehicle’s safety b’elt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

5. 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.

6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push

down on the child restraint.

1-36

I . Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure. If the child restraint isn’t secure, turn the latch plate over and buckle it again. Then see if it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

To 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

You’ll be using the. -lap-shoulder belt. See the ear&r part about the top .strap,if the child restraint has one. 1.

. ,

>’

2.

3.

Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:

1-37

4. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

5. 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.

6. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the

retractor to set the lock.

1-38

Larger Children

7. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the

retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

8. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.

1-39

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.

1-40

Q:

A:

What if& child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the Childkss Snzan U t the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt cod^ Guides” in the Index. E the child is so-small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.

Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.

1-41

Replacing Seat and Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If your seat adjuster won’t work after a crash, the special part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the adjuster may need to be replaced.

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 you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt, Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, anchorages and reminder systems are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged restraint system parts. If you see anything that might keep a restraint system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed. get a new one right awav.

1-42

7

Section 2 Features and Controls

Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Pontiac, 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. Keys

2-1

The ignition keys are for the ignition only.

When a new Bonneville is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner, However, the ignition key may not have a plug. If the ignition key doesn't have a plug, it will have a bar-c'oded key tag. Each plug or tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs or the tags in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you'll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs or the tag. If your ignition keys don't have plugs or the tag, go to your Pontiac dealer fox- the correct key code if you need a new ignition key. There are 15 alternative PASS-Key@blanks, to help discourage theft. Your dealer can help determine which blank you need.

I NOTICE:

Your Pontiac has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. Yon may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have extra keys.

2-2

Door Locks

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.

From the outside: Use your door key or Remote Keyless Entry, if your vehicle has this option. If you have the Theft Deterrent System, you will also unlock and lock all doors when you unlock or lock either front door with you key.

From the inside:

Power Door Locks

To lock the door, slide the locking lever rearward. To unlock the door, slide the locking lever forward.

2-4

With power door locks, you can lock or unlock all the doors of your vehicle from the driver or front passenger door lock switch. The switch on each rear door works only that door’s lock. It won’t lock (or unlock) all of the doors -- that’s a safety feature.

Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door. If your vehicle has the theft deterrent option, see “Theft-Deterrent System” later in this section. Remote Keyless Entry (Option) If your Pontiac has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle.

Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (I) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Should interference to this system occur, try this:

Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions on battery replacement. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. See your Pontiac dealer or a qualified technician for service.

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.

2-5

You can match a transmitter to as many different vehicles as you own, provided they are equipped with exactly the same model system, (General Motors o f k s several different models of these systems on their vehicles.) Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it. See your dealer to match transmitters to another vehicle. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the batteries.

Operation The driver’s door will unlock when UNLOCK is pressed. If pressed again within 25 seconds, all doors will unlock. Also, if your car is equipped with a locking fuel filler door it will unlatch at this time. All doors will lock when LOCK is pressed. The trunk will unlock when the opened trunk symbol on the key fob is pressed, but only when the ignition is off. Press any button to illuminate the interior lamps (see “Illuminated Entry System” in the Index). Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each key chain 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 matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, the remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle.

2-6

To replace batteries in the key chain transmitter: 1. Remove the screw from

back cover.

2. Lift the front cover off, 2. Lift the front cover off,

bottom half first. bottom half first.

3. Remove and replace the two batteries (201 6). 4. Reassemble the transmitter. 5. Check the transmitter operation.

Rear Door Security Locks

I Your Pontiac is equipped

with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your car from the inside. To use one of these locks:

1. Move the lever all the way up to the ENGAGED

position.

2. Close the door. 3. Do the same thing to the other rear door lock. The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from 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.

2-7

If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and older children know how these security locks work, and how to cancel the locks. To cancel the rear door lock: 1. Unlock the door from the inside and open the door

from the outside.

2. Move the lever all the way down. 3. Do the same for the other rear door. The rear door locks will now work normally. Glove Box Use the door key to lock and unlock the glove box. To open, lift the latch release on the left side of the glove box door.

Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Pontiac has a number of theft deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the Ignition If you walk away from your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so don’t do it. When you park your Pontiac and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition and transaxle. And remember to lock the doors. 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.

2-8

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 ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk or glove box. Lock the glove box. Lock all the doors except the driver’s. Then take the door key with you.

Universal Theft Deterrent (Option) If your Pontiac has this option, it has a theft deterrent alarm system. With this system, the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off). This light reminds you to activate the theft deterrent system when leaving your vehicle. Activating the system: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or

Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. The SECURITY light should come on and stay on.

3. Close all doors. The SECURITY light should go off after about 30 seconds and the system will then be armed.

If the SECURITY light comes on for one minute and then shuts off while the ignition is on, the security system has detected a problem with itself. See your dealer for service. If a door or the trunk is opened without the key or Remote Keyless Entry transmitter, the alarm will go off. It will also go off if the trunk lock is damaged. Your vehicle’s lamps will flash and the horn will sound for three minutes, then will go off to save battery power. Remember, the theft deterrent system won’t activate if you lock the doors with a key or manual door lock. It activates only if you use a power door lock switch or Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. Avoid setting off the alarm by accident. If you don’t want to activate the theft deterrent system, the vehicle should be locked after the doors are closed. Always unlock a door with a key, or use the Remote Keyless Entry System transmitter. Unbckirrg a door my other way will set off the alarm.

2-9

Stopping the alarm: If you set off the alarm by accident, unlock any door with your key. You can also turn off the alarm by pressing the UNLOCK button on the Remote Keyless Entry System transmitter. The alarm won’t stop if you try to unlock a door any other way. Testing the alarm: Open the window, then follow the directions for activating the system described earlier. Once the alarm is set, reach through the window and manually unlock the door from the inside or turn on the ignition. The alarm should sound. I€ the alarm does not sound when it should, check to see if the horn works. The horn fuse may be blown. To replace the fuse, see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. To reduce the possibility of theft, always activate the theft deterrent system when leaving your vehicle.

2-10

PASS-Key@II

k?

Your vehicle is equi -ed with the PASS-Key II (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft deterrent system. PASS-Key(% theft deterrent system.

is a passive

This means you don’t have to do anything different to arm or disarm the system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition. PASS-Key% uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle. When the PASS-Key% system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key

during this time, the vehicle will not start. This discourages someone from randomly trying different keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a match. The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the engine does not start and the SECURITY light is on, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key. Wait about three minutes and try again. The security light may remain on during this time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears to be clean and dry, wait about three minutes and try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work.with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key@II.

to have a new key made.

If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work and the SECURITY light will flash. But you don’t have to wait three minutes before trying another ignition key. See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key’II If you’re ever driving and the SECURITY light comes on and remains on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it off. Your P A S S - K ~ Y ~ I however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your Pontiac dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key% system. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key(% your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key@II to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program at 1 -800-ROADSID& or 1-800-762-3743.

ignition key, see

system,

2-11

Illuminated Entry System (Option) When you lift the lever of either front door, a lamp will glow around the door lock. This will help you insert the door key at night. The lamps inside your vehicle will also go on. These lamps will go off after about 20 seconds, or when you start your engine. These lamps will also go on when you press any button on the optional remote keyless entry transmitter. If a door is left ajar, your interior lamps will turn off dter ten minutes to save your battery. Trunk Lock To unlock the trunk from the outside. insert the door key and turn it.

Remote Trunk Release (Option) Press the trunk relase button located below the driver's door armrest to release the trunk lid.

The ignition may be on or off and the transaxle must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). The system also works with the Remote Keyless Entry System.

2-12

;ystem tu its higlxevt speed with >n ECON or VENT. That will air into your vehicle. See Vornfo

New Vehicle “Break-In”

NOTICE: Your modern Pontiac 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 (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this “breaking-in” guideline every time you get new brake linings. Don’t tow a trailer during “break-in.” See “Towing a Trailer’’ in the Index for more information.

2-13

Ignition Switch

With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five positions. ACCESSORY (A): An ON position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. Press in the igniti’on switch as you turn the top of it toward you. LOCK (B): The only position in which you can remove the key, This locks your steering wheel, ignition and transaxle.

2-14

OFF (e): Unlocks the steering wheel, ignition, and transaxle, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. Use this position if your vehicle m e be pushed or towed, but never try to push-start your vehicle. A warning cbime will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is off and the key is in the ignition. RUN 0): An ON position to which the switch returns after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the RUN position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you CEUl Use R m to QPe3Tit.e yOlar &C!T’kd power accessories, and to display some instrument panel warning lights. §TART (E): Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release d e key. The ignition switch will return to RUN for normal driving. Note that even if the engine is not running, the positions ACCESSORY and RUN are ON positions that allow you to operate yom electrical accessories, such as the radio. Key Reminder Warning: If you leave your key in the ignition, in the OFF position, you will hear a warning tone when you open the driver’s door.

Retained Accessory Power: If you have ths option, after you turn your ignition off and even remove the key, you will still have electrical power to such accessories as the radio and power windows for up to ten minutes. But if you open a door, power is turned off.

NOTICE: If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t turn it, be sure it is all the way in. If it is, then turn the steering wheel left and right while you turn the key hard. But turn the key only with your hand. Using a tool to force it could break the key or the ignition switch. If none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.

Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only.

NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Pontiac is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

To start your 3.8 Liter engine: 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

ignition key to START. 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 START for longer than 15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor.

2-15

2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in

START for about three to five seconds at a time until your engine starts. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery.

3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then

stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down far five or six seconds. This clears the extra gasoline €rom the engine. After waiting about 15 seconds, repeat the n o d starting procedure.

NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work wkh the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the fuel injection system operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you everhave to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the lndex.

2-16

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that is slightly lower than the underbody of your vehicle. If you can't avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly. Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

In very cold weather, 0°F (- 18 "C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You'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. To use the coolant heater: 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt outlet.

2-17

1 NOTICE:

After you’ve used the coolant heater, be sure to store the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.

How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact your Pontiac dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

Shifting the Automatic Transaxle Your automatic transaxle may have a shift lever located on the console betwe’en the seats or on the steering column.

There are several different positions for your shift lever.

2-18

PARK (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.

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK when the ignition key is in the ON position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push t2ze shift lever all the way into PARK and also release the shift lever button on floor shift console models as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button before moving the shift lever on floor shift console models.) See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” later in this section. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.

2-19

NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@): This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: - Going less than about 35 mph (56 km/h), push your

accelerator pedal about halfway down.

- Going about 35 mph (56 lun/h) or more, push the

accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

I NOTICE:

I NOTICE:

Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

If your vehicle seems to start up rather slowly, or if it seems not to shift gears as you go faster, something may be wrong with a transaxle system sensor. If you drive very far that way, your vehicle can be damaged. So, if this happens, have your vehicle serviced right away. Until then, you can use SECOND (2) when you are driving less than 35 mph (56 k m h ) and @ for higher speeds.

2-20

DRIVE (D): This is like @, but you never go into OVERDRIVE. instead of a: Here are some times you might choose DRIVE (D)

- When driving on hilly, winding roads - When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting

between gears

- When going down a steep hill SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

NOTICE: Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than 5 miles (8 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use @ or DRIVE (D) as much as possible. Don’t shift into SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 k d ) , or you can damage your engine.

FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the selector lever is put in FIRST (l), the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE: If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transaxle. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal. This could overheat and damage the transaxle. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P) to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.

2-21

indicator light on the switch will glow when normal shifting is in operation. Computer Command Ride (Option) Vehicles equipped with COMPUTER COMMAND RIDE provide improved passenger ride comfort under a variety of road and driving conditions. For normal driving conditions, press the TOURING RIDE button to get a more refined comfortable ride. When driving conditions require improved handling, press the PERFORM RIDE button to get a firm ride. This mode minimizes how much the passenger compartment leans in turns, and decreases the up-and-down motion of the front and rear of the vehicle during acceleration or braking. Note that even in the TOURING RIDE mode, the system will adjust to rapid cornering, acceleration or braking.

Performance Shifting (Option)

Press PERFORM SHIFT to allow the transaxle to shift at higher engine speeds, increasing acceleration performance. An indicator light on the switch will glow when performance shifting is in operation. Downshifts will occur at a lower percentage of accelerator application while you’re in the PERFORM SHIFT mode. Press NORMAL SHIFT to have the transaxle shift at lower engine speeds, increasing fuel economy. An

2-22

Parking Brake

To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will come on. If you start to drive away with the parking brake set, a chime will sound after the vehicle has traveled 46 feet (14 meters).

To release the parking brake, use the PUSH TO RELEASE park brake pedal. Hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot and push the park brake pedal with your left foot. This will unlock the pedal. When you lift your left foot, the park brake pedal will follow it to the release position. If you try to drive away with the parking brake on, the brake light stays on and a chime sounds until you release the parking brake or recycle the ignition.

I NOTICE:

Driving with the parking brake,on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.

If you are towing a trailer and are parking. on any hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

2-23

Shifting Into PARK (P)

3a

' 6 0

km/h 140

Steering Column Shift Lever 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like

this: 0 Pull the lever toward you.

II I I 1

2-24

Console Shift Lever

0 Move the lever up as far as it will go.

3. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can

walk away from your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this:

0 Hold in the button on the lever.

Push the lever all the way toward the front of the vehicle.

3. Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can

walk away from your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

2-25

Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If “torque lock” does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the transaxle. so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

If yon have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking bralae is f d y set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into the PARK (I?) position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can muve the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it tow& you (or, if you have the console shift lever, without first pushing.the button). If yuu c-an, it mema that the shift lever- w&snB t fully locked into PARK (P).

2-26

Parking Over Things That Burn

Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN pition. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever--push the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) as you maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever into the gear you want. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. Open and close the driver’s

door to turn off the Retained Accessory Power feature, if you have it.

2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the vehicle and then shift to the drive gear you

want.

5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can.

2-27

Engine Exhaust

Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

2-28

Power Windows

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index.

Switches on the driver’s armrest control each of the windows when the ignition is on or in retained accessory power. In addition, each passenger door has a control switch for its own window. is held rearward for more When the driver’s window switch than a half second, the window will lower completely. The window can be opened in smaller amounts by pressing the switch rearward and releasing it immediately. TO stop the window while it is lowering, press the switch again, then release. To raise the window, hold the switch forward.

2-29

Horn You can sound the horn by pressing the horn s’ymbols on your steering wheel. ‘Tilt Wheel

Turn SignaVMultifunction Lever The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your:

Headlamp High-Low Beam

0 Windshield Wipers a Windshield Washer

Cruise Control (Option)

@ Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The high-low beam feature is discussed under “Headlamps”. See “Headlamps” in the Index.

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel m place.

2-30

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator

The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions

I allow you to signal a turn or

a lane change.

To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.

A green arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the green arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it. As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don’t flash but just stay on, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal. If you have the Driver Information Center, it will tell you if you have a burned out bulb. See “Driver Information Center” in the Index. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the green arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check the fuse and for burned-out bulbs. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.

2-31

Windshield Wipers

The windshield wipers are controlled by turning the band marked WIPIER.

For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold you it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the band on MIST longer.

For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the LO position. For high speed wiping, turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, move the band to OFF. The wiper speed may be set for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to LO, the shorter the delay. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wiper motor. A circuit breaker will stop the mator until it cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload. Keep in mind that damaged wiper blades may prevent from seeing well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If your blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.

2-32

Windshield Washer At the top of the turn signal/multifunction lever there’s a paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle for less than a second. The wipers will clear the window and there either stop or return to your preset speed. For more washer cycles, push and hold the paddle. Remember, driving without washer fluid can be dangerous. A bad mud splash can block your vision. You could hit another vehicle or go off the road. Check your washer fluid level often. Some models have a WASHER FLUID warning, that indicates if the fluid level in the windshield washer is low. See “Low Washer Fluid Warning Light” in the Index.

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 314 full when it’s very cold. This allows for if expansion, which could damage the tank it is completely full. Don’t use radiator antifreeze in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.

2-33

Cruise Control (Option)

With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 k m 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 about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, the cruise control shuts off.

2-34

If your vehicle is in cruise control when the optional tractison control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. (See “Traction Control System” in the Index. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may turn the cruise control back on.

To Set Cruise Control 1. Move the cruise control switch to ON.

To Resume a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it.

Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A (resume/accelerate) for about half a second.

2. Get up to the speed you want.

3. Push in the SET at the end of the and release it.

button lever

You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there. Remember that if you hold the switch at FUA longer than half a second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake. You could be startled and even lose control. So unless you want to go faster, don’t hold the switch at WA.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

2-35

To Increase Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed. Here’s the first:

Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. 0 Push the button at the end of the lever, then release

the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed.

Here’s the second way to go to a higher speed:

Move the Cruise switch from ON to WA. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to WA 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 work after you have set the cruise control speed by pushing the SET button.

2-36

To Reduce Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control:

Push in the button at the end of the lever until YOU reach the lower speed you want, then release it. 0 To slow down in very small amounts, push the

button for less than half a second. Each time you do this, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier. Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load, and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control. Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don’t use cruise control on steep hills.

To Get Out of Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:

Step lightly on the brake pedal; OR Move the cruise switch to OFF.

Cruise Control with Traction Control Activated When the Traction Control System is turned on and becomes activated by sensors, it will automatically turn off the cruise control. See “Traction Control System” in the Index. To Erase Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, or shift into PARK (P), your cruise control set speed memory is erased.

Lamp Controls

Parking Lamps: Pull the switch to the first stop to turn on the:

Parking Lamps

0 Side Marker Lamps 0 Taillamps 0 Instrument Panel Lamps

Headlamps: Pull the switch out all the way to turn on the headlamps, together with: 0 Parking Lamps

Side Marker Lamps Taillamps Instrument Panel Lamps

Push the switch in all the way to turn all the lamps off.

2-37

Lamps On Reminder If you open the driver’s door while leaving the lamps on and the ignition off, you will hear a warning tone. Daytime Running Lamps (Canada Only) Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) make it easier 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. A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the DRL work, so be sure it isn’t covered. The DRL system will make your low-beam headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when: 0 The ignition is on,

The headlamp switch is off, and The transaxle is not in PARK (P).

When the DRL are on, only your low-beam headlamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won’t be on. Your instrument panel won’t be lighted either.

When it’s dark enough outside, your low-beam headlamps will change to full brightness. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When it’s bright enough outside, the regular lamps will go off, and your low-beam headlamps change to the reduced brightness of DRL. To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, shift the transaxle into PARK (P). The DRL will stay off until you shift out of PARK (P). As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system any time you need it. At night, you can turn off all exterior lamps when you are in PARK (P) by moving the twilight sentinel control all the way to OFF. If it was off, move the control to the right to turn it on, then back off. The lamps will come back on when you put the transaxle in gear. Headlamp High-Low Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, pull the turn signal lever all the way toward you. Then release it. When the high beams are on, this blue light on the instrument panel also will be on.

2-38

Instrument Panel Intensity Control You can brighten or dim your instrument cluster lamps by rotating the headlamp switch. Rotate the switch all the way counterclockwise to turn on the interior courtesy lamps. Rotate the switch clockwise to turn off the instrument cluster lamps and displays. Twilight Sentinel (Option)

Push in the headlamp switch to turn your headlamps off. Rotate the twilight sentinel switch clockwise from OFF.

The twilight sentinel will keep your headlamps on for as long as three minutes to light your way when you leave your vehicle. Rotate the twilight sentinel switch to MAX for a three-minute delay. Rotate it the other way to reduce the delay. Also, it’s possible that your headlamps might go out if you drove from a dark area into a bright area, such as a lighted parking lot. If this happens, turn on your headlamps with the regular headlamp switch. Fog Lamps

The switch for your fog lamps is in the overhead

Depending on how dark it becomes outside, the twilight sentinel turns your headlamps on automatically, when