1996 Pontiac Bonneville Owners Manual

Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thh they may not work well in this player. While the tape is playing, use the VOLUME, FADE and BAL controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show an m o w to show which side of the tape is playing. m e n the down indicator arrow is lit, selections listed on the bottom side of the cassette are playing. When the up of the cassette are playing. The tape player automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the end of the tape.

is lit, selections listed on the top side

If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error.

E10: The tape is tight and the player can’t tunn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in the player. Try a new tape to make m e your player is working properly. Ell: The tape is broken. Try a new tape.

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to searGh for the previous selection on the tape. Yow tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV or SEEK to work. The tape direction m o w blinks dwmg PREV or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to stop searching. The sound is muted during PFWV or SEEK operation.

3-16

,

If you hold the

NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to search for the next selection on the tape. button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during NEXT or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK up arrow to stop searching. The sound is muted during NEXT or SEEK operation. PROG (3): Press this button to play the other side of the tape. 00 (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. Note that the double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. REV (5): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last-selected station while the tape reverses. ,You may select stations during REV operation by using SEEK or TUNE.

FWD (6): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last-selected station while the tape advances. You may select stations during FWD operation by using SEEK or TUNE. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. TAPEIPLAY: Press this button to change to the tape function when the radio is on. The tape symbol with an arrow will appear on the display when the tape is active. To return to playing the radio, press the AM-FM button. EJECT Press this button to remove the tape. The radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the radio off if this button is pressed first. CLN: This message may appear on the display. If it does, your cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and player. See “Care of Your Cassette Tape Player” in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

. >. ’

. .

AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player

Playing the Radio VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on or off. Turn it clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or the clock display. If you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM, F M l or FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back in when you're not using, it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM 1 and six FM2). 1. Press AM-FM to select the band. 2. Find the station you want by using TUNE or 'SEEK. 3. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until

SET appears

on

the display. you

that Whenever press

.~

:.) " numbered button, the station you set will return.

4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

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Setting the Tone BASS: Slide the lever to the right or decrease bass. TREBLE: Slide the lever to the right or or decrease treble. K a station is weak or noisy, slide the lever down to reduce the noise.

left to increase or

left to increase

display. If you want to insert a disc when the ignition is OFF, first press EJECT. If you're driving on a very rough road or if it's very hot, the disc may not play and E (error) and a number may appear on the radio display. If the. disc comes out, it could be that:

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. Playing a Compact Disc The integral CD player can play 8 cm "single" mini-discs. Full-size compact discs and &-discs are loaded in the same manner. Insert a disc partway irito the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The compact disc symbol will appear on the display. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off, the disc will begin playing. CD will appew.&.,

- * I .

',

."

The disc is upside down. It is dirty, scratched or wet. The air is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and try again.)

If y o y radio

if an error can't be

If any error occurs repeatedly or corrected, please contact your dealer. displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. RECALL: Press this button to see what track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long been playing (elapsed time). The track number also appears when the disc is inserted, you change the volume or when a new track starts playing. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc.

it has

~ - : - s- h . 1 * _ . .. .

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NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to go to the start of the next track if more than eight secmds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. RDM (3): Press this button to hear the tracks in a random order. It will change tracks in a random, rather than sequential order. Press RDM again to turn off random play. REV (5): Press and hold this button to return to a passage quickly. Release it to play the passage. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. FWD (6): Press and hold this button to advance to a passage quickly. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed t h e . AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is playing. The disc will stop but remain in the player. CD/PLAY: Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on. EJECT Press this button to remove the disc or stop the disc and switch to the radio. EJECT will work with the radio off.

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AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer

Playing the Radio VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on or off. T m it clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or the clock display. you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

in when

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM, FM1 or FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back you’re not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to ! 18 1. 2. 3.

stations (s& AM, six F M 1 and six FM2). Press AM-FM to select the band. Find the station you want by using TUNE or SEEK. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until SET appears on the display. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

4. Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range.

Adjusting the Speakers BAE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you’re not using it. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers, Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob * back in when you’re not using it. Playing a Compact Disc The integral CD player can play 8 cm “single” mini-discs. Full-size compact discs and mini-discs are loaded in the same manner. Insert a disc partway into the slot, label player will pull it in. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off, the disc will begin playing. If you want to in%ert disc when the ignition is off, first press EJECT.

side up. The

P

If you're driving on a very rough road or if it's very hot, the disc may not play and E (error) and a number may appear on the radio display. If the disc comes out, it could be that:

The disc is upside down. It is d m 7 scratched or wet. The air is very humid. (If so, wait about an hour and try again.)

if an error can't be If any error occurs repeatedly or corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. WECALL: Press this button to see what track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long it has been playing (elapsed time). The track number also appears when the disc is inserted, the volume is changed or whefi a new track starts playing. P W V (1): Press this button or the S'EEK down mow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the-button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc.

NEXT (2): Press this button ar the SEEK up arrow to go to the start of the next track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving furward through the disc. RDM (3): Press this button to hear the tracks in a random order. It will change discs and tracks in a random, rather than sequential order. Press RDM again to turn o€f randm play. The radio will' play during this operation. REV (5): Press and hold this button to return to a passage quickly. Release it to play the passage. You will .I hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. FWD (6): Press and hold this button to advance to a passage quickly. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. WE display will show elapsed time. AM-PM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is playing. The Bjsc will stop but remain in the player. CRIPLAY: Press this button to change'to the disc: function when the radio,is on, EJECT Press'this button to remove the disc or stop the disc and switch to the radio. EJECT will work with the radio off.

' s

::>, _ . "f ' : 7% ,

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1.

If THEFTLOCK is

Theft-Deterrent Feature THEFTLOC,K" is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio 2. functions whenever battery power is removed. 3. The' THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the 4. radio is not protected by the feature. activated, your radio will not operate if stolen. When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display LOC to indicate a locked condition anythe battery power is removed. If your battery loses power for any reason, you must unlock the radio with the,. secret code before it will operate. Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature 8. The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting.the procedure. NOTE: If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time apd you must start the procedure over at Step 4.

5. 6.

9.

7.

Write down any three or four-digit number from 000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate from the vehicle. Turn the ignition to the ACC or RUN position. Turn the radio off. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the secret code number which you have written down. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display.. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree with your code. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show REP to let you know that you need to repeat Steps 5 through 7 to confirm your secret code. Press AM-FM and this tinie the display will show SEC to let you know that your radio is secure.

.. . .

? ' . .:?<

Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss than Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more 15 seconds between steps: 1. LOC appears when the ignition is on. 2. Press MIN and 000 will appear-on the display. 3. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree

with your code.

4. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree

with your ?ode.

Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition to the ACCESSORY or RUN

no more than

position.

2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down

until SEC shows on the display.

4. 'Press MIN and 0010 will appear on the display. 5. Press MIN again to make 'the iast two digits agree

5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the

code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show SEC, indicating the radio is now operable and ,secure.

with your code.

with your code.

If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear on the display. You will have to wait an hour with the ignition on before you can try again. When you try again, you will only have three chances to enter the correct code before INOP appears. 11 you lose or forget your code, contact y o u dealer.

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6. Press HR to make the first one or two digits agree

7.. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the

code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show ---, indicating that the radio is no longer secured.

If the code entered is incorrect, SEC will appear on the display. The radio will remain secured until the correct code is entered. When battery power is given to a secured radio, the radio won't turn on and LOC will appear on the display.

Steering Wheel Controls (Option) If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel.

VOLUME: Press the up arrow to increase the volume and the down arrow to decrease volume.

SEEK: Press the up arrow to tune to the next radio station and the down arrow to tune to the previous radio station. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the player will advance with the up arrow and rewind with the down arrow.

PRESET Press this button to hear the radio stations that are set on your pushbuttons. AM-FM: Press this button to select AM, FM1 or FM2. The band selected will show on the digital screen. The if the station is in frequency will also be displayed and, stereo, the stereo indicator will also be displayed. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the tape or disc will stop playing and the radio will play.

PLAY: Press this button to play a cassette tape or compact disc when the radio is playing. MUTE: Press this button to silence the system. Press it again, or any other radio button, to turn on the sound.

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Understanding Radio eception FM Stereo FM stereo will give you the best sound. But EM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles (16 to 65 km). Tall buildings 'or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go. AM The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise fkom things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this nois'e Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts to

if you ever get it.

it.

. . .

To help avoid hearing loss or damage:

Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting.

0 Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably

and clearly.'

NOTICE: vehicle -- like a tape player, CB'radio, mobile Before you add any sound equipment to your telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you can

add what you want. If you can, it's very important to i o it properly. Added sound equipment may interfere with the operation of your vehicle's engine, Delco radio or other systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle's systems may interfere with the operation of sound equipment that has been added improperly. So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to check Federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units.

1.::.

1 "-

Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cleaner which uses a cassette with a cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and the tape head. It may extreme heat. If they aren't, they may not operate scrubbing type properly or may cause failure of the tape player.

cleaner.

to CUT TAPE DETECTION

The radio will default back when the cleaner cassette is ejected. You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type fabric belt to clean

not'clean as thoroughly as the

Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may

tape player should be clean4 regularly after every, degrade over time. Always make sure that the cassette

50 h o k without player serviced.

tape is in good condition before you have your tape

50 hours of use. Youi. radio may display CLN to indicate that you have used your tape player for resetting the tape clean timer. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a known good cassette to see if the tape or the tape player is at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player. Cleaning m y be done with a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. Follow these steps to prevent the cassette from being Be sure never td touch the signal surface when handling ejected due to the CUT TAPE DETECTION feature: discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the 1. Turn the radio edge of the hole and the outer 2. Press and hold the TAPEPLAY button for three

Care of Your Compact Discs Handle discs carefully. Store them in th'eir original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight , and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.

off and the ignition

edge..

on.

seconds (tape indicator will flash

for two seconds).

3. ~nskrt the cleaner cassette.

Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, YOU should replace it. Check every once in a while to be sure the mast is still tightened to the fender. Power Antenna Mast Care Your power antenna will look its best and work well if it’s cleaned fiom time to time. To clean the antenna mast: 1. Turn on the ignition and radio to raise the antenna. 2. Dampen a clean cloth with’mineral spirits or

equivalent solvent.

3. Wipe the cloth over the.mast sections, removing any

dirt.

4. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. 5. Make the antenna go up and down by turning the

radio or ignition off and on.

6. Repeat if necessary.

I NOTICE:

Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication could damage it.

NOTICE:

Before entering an automatic car wash, turn off your radio to make the power antenna go down. This will prevent the ,mast from possibly getting damaged. If the antenna does not go down when you turn the radio off, it may be damaged or need to be cleaned. In either case, lower the antenna by hand by carefully pressing the antenna down.

If the mast portion of your antenna is damaged, you can easily replace it. See your dealer for a replacement kit and follow the instructions in the kit.

NOTES

NOTES

3-30

Section 4 Your Driving and the Road

in the Index.)

Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your Pontiac: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes. Rear-end collisions are about the most preventable of accidents. Yet they are common. Allow enough following distance. It’s the best defensive driving maneuver, in both city and rural driving. You never know when the vehicle in front of you is going to brake or turn suddenly.

‘i

4-1

Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.

Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor. to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs a vehicle:

to drive

’

Judgment

0 Muscular Coordination

Vision Attentiveness,

Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related,deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths me the result of someone who was drinking and driving. h recent years, some 18,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured. Many adults -- by some estimates, nearly hdf the adult population -- choose never to drink alcohol, so they never drive after drinking. For persons under 21, it’s against the law in every W.S’. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws.

The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” if the driver plans to elrive? It’s a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things: 0 The amount of alcohol consumed 0 The drinker’s body weight

The amwnt of food that is consumed before and during drinking The length of time it has taken the drinker to consume the alcohol.

According to the Amefican Medical Association, a 180-lb. (82 kg) person who drinks three 12-ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1 - 1/2 ounces (45 d) of a liquor me whiskey, gin or vodka.

Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U.S. states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some for all other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit is 0.04 percent. commercial drivers in the United States The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six drinks (in one hour). Of course, as we’ve seen, it depends on how much alcohol is quickly the person drinks them. But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people aie impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All 0.05 percent. drivers are impaired at BAC levels above Statistics show that the chance of being in a collision increases sharply for drivers who have a BAC of 0.05 percent or above. A driver with a BAC level 0.06 percent has doubled his or her chance of having a collision. At a BAC level of 0.10 percent, the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater!

in the drinks, and how

of

4-3

It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level. There is a gender difluence, too. Women generally have a lower relative percentage of body water than men.

The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision. There’s something else about drinking and driving that many people don’t know. Medical research shows that alcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuries worse, especially injuries to the brain, spinal cord or heart. This means that when anyone who has been drinking -- driver or passenger --, is in a crash, that person’s chance of being killed or permanently disabled is higher than if the person had not been drinking.

Drinking and then driving is very dangerous. Your reflexes, perceptions, attentiveness and judgment can be affected by even a small amount of alcohol. You can have a serious -- or even fatal -- collision if you drive after drinking. Please don’t drink and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking. ‘Ride home in a cab; or if you’re with a group, designate a driver who *.not drink.

4-4

Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where Braking action involves you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work First, at the places where the tires meet the road.

Braking

reaction time.

perception time and

you have to decide to push on the brake

pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your foot A d do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But that’s only an average. It might be less with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and frustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 h/h) travels 66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between your vehicle and others is important. And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; and the condition of your brakes.

Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means of your vehicle.

you can lose control

Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life. If your engine ever stops while you’re driving, brake normally but don’t pump your brakes. If you do, the pedal may get harder to push down. If your engine stops, you dill still have some power brake assist. But you will use it when you brake. Once the power assist is used up, it may take longer to stop and the brake pedal will be harder tol push.

Anti-Lock Brakes Your vehicle has anti-lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent a braking skid. When you start your engine, or when you begin to drive away, your anti-lock, brake system will check itself. You may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise while this test is going on, and you may even notice that your brake pedal moves a little. This is normal.

(a) If there’s a problem with the

anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

ANTILOCK

4-6

The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions.

is wet.

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

You can steer around the obstacle while braking hard. As you brake, your computer keeps receiving updates on wheel speed and controls braking pressure accordingly.

Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t cfiange the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows .or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel the system workg, or you may notice some noise, but this is normd. Traction Control System (Option) Your vehicle may have a traction con&ol system that limits wheel spin. This is especially useful in slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the front wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system works the front brakes and reduces engine power to limit wheel spin. You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal,.

If your-vehicle is in cruise control when the traction control system. begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise. control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may reengage the cruise control. (See “Cruise Control” in the Index.)

’

M e n the system is on, this warning light will come on to k t you know if there’s- a problem with. your traction control system.

TRACTION

OFF

See “Traction Control System Warning Light’’ in the Index. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving

accordingly.

---

.., ’. . ,.! “ A

~ i 1

e . -. .. . l ’ i-!

The traction control system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on. But you can turn the traction control system off if you ever need to. (You should turn the system off if your vehicle ever gets stuck in sand, mud, ice or snow. See “Rocking Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

To turn the system off, press the TRACTION CONTROL button located on the console next to the gear shift selector.

The traction control system warning light will come on and stay on. If the system is limiting wheel spin when you press the button, the warning light will come on -- but the system won’t turn off right away. It will wait until there’s no longex a current need to limit wheel spin.

You can turn the system back on at any time by pressing the button again. The traction control system warning light should go off. Braking in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system. is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Magnasteer Your vehicle is equipped with GM Magnasteer TM , a steering system that continuously adjusts the effort you feel when steering.at all vehicle speeds. It provides ease when parking, yet a firm, solid feel at highway speeds.

4-9

Steering Tips Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here’s why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this. The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Unless you have traction control and the system is on, adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control.

What should you do if this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of course, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower. If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a curve, do it before you enter the curve, while your front wheels are straight ahead. Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady spied. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in fi-ont of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem.

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Your Pontiac can perfom very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. (See ‘‘Braking in Emergencies” earlier in this section.) It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left right depending on the space available.

or

An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object. The fact that such emergency situations are always possible is a good reason to practice defensive ‘driving at all times and.wear safety belts properly.

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Off-Road Recovery You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving.

/ // e-

LEFT APPAOX. QUARTER TURN

Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds. A miscalculation, an error in judgment, or a brief surrender to frustration or anger can suddenly put the passing driver face to face with the worst of all traffic accidents -- the head-on collision. So here are some tips for passing:

If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement. You can turn the steering wheel up to one-quarter turn until the right front tire contacts the pavement edge. Then turn your steering wheel to go straight down the roadway.

“Drive ahead.” Look down the road, to the sides and to crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time. Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a hun or an intersection, delay youi pass. A broken center line usually indicates it’s all right to pass (providing the road ahead is clear). Never cross a solid line on your side of the lane or a double solid line, even if the road seems empty of approaching trS1c.

a

Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close. Time your move so you will be

is coming up,

if the ’

I % .

. > .-

. . . -..increasing speed as the time comes to move into the - .; -.: - 5 ; . : y other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a -8 -“running start” that more than makes up for the

distance-you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for another opportunity. If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and check the blind spot.

to cancel your pass,

.~ . . 4 ,

.*

Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane. (Remember that your right outside mirror is convex. The vehicle you just passed may seem to be farther away from you than it really is.) Try not to pass more than one vehicle at a time on two-lane roads. Reconsider before passing the next vehicle. Don’t overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake lamps are not flashing, it may be slowing down or starting to turn. If you’re being passed, make it easy for the following driver to get ahead of you. Perhaps you can ease a little to the right.

Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not “overdriving” those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your Pontiac’s three control systems. In the braking skid, your wh’eels aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration ‘skid, too much throttIe causes the driving wheels A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal. If you have the traction control system, remember: It helps avoid only the acceleration skid.

If you do not have traction control, or if the system is off, then an acceleration skid is also best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal. If your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the vehicle to go. If you start steering quickly enough, your vehicle may straighten out. Always be ready for a second skid if it occurs. Of course, traction i,s reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid.

to spin.

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Driving at Night

Here are some tips on night dnving. 0 Drive defensively.

Don’t drink and drive. Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the gl&e from headlamps behind you.

0 Since you can’t see as well, you may need to

slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.

0 Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead.

0 In remote areas, watch for animals.

If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe place and rest.

Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by alcohol or chugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue.

Night Vision No one c8n see as well at night as in the-daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What you do in the daytime can also afTect your night vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adNsting to night. But if you're driving, don't wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on.glare from headlamps, but they also. make a lot of things invisible. You can be temporarily blinddby approaching. aren't even headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. when you are faced with severe glare (as fkom a driver who doesn't lower the high beams, or a vehicle with m i s h e d headlamps), slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into the approaching headlamps.

Keep you windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean - inside and out. Glare at night is made much worse by dirt on the glass. Even the inside of the glass can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would, making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly. Remember that your headlamps light up farless of a roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your eyes moving; that way, it's easier to pick out dimly lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blindness -- the inability to see in dim light - and

aware of it.

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get to go slower and be even less traction. It’s always wise cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road and even people walking. It’s wise to keep your wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled. Replace your windshield wiper inserts when they show signs of streaking or missing areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to separate from the inserts.’

4-17

.Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to ‘one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.

Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes, Try to avoid puddles. But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them.

4-18

ride on the water.

Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re is hydroplaning, going fast enough. When your vehicle it has little or no contact with the road. Hydroplaning doesn’t happen often. But tires haven’t much tread or if the pressure in one or more is low. It can happen if a lot of water is standing on the road. If you can see reflections from trees, telephone poles or other vehicles, and raindrops “dimple” the water’s surface, there could be hydroplaning. Hydroplaning usually happens at higher speeds. There just isn’t a hard and fast rule about hydroplaning. The best advice is to slow down when it is raining.

it can if your

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.

some Other R a l g Weather Tips

Turn on your low-beam headlamps -- not just your parking lamps -- to help make you more visible to others. Besides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room ahead, and be prepared to have your view restricted by road spray. Have good tires with proper tread depth. (See “Tires” in the Index.)

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One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. Here are.ways to increase your safety

in city driving:

Know the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip.into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-countq trip. Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You’ll save time and energy. (See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”) Treat a green light as a warning signd A traftic light is there because the corner is busy enough to need it. When a light huns green, and just before you start to move, check both ways for vehicles that have not cleared the intersection or may be running the red light.

City Driving

4-20

Freeway Driving

Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep’ up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane.

At the entrance, there is usually a rarnp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow. Try to merge into the gap at close to the prevailing speed. Switch on your turn signal, check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Try to blend smoothly with th’e traffic flow. Once you are on the freeway, adjust your speed to the posted limit or to the prevailing rate if it’s slower. Stay in the right lane unless you want to pass. Before changing lanes, check your mirrors. Then use your turn signal. Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in your “blind” spot. Once you are moving on the freeway, make certaih you allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move ’ slightly slower at night. When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do. not, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on tu the next exit. The exit rarnp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.

4-21

The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance to think you are going at higher speeds, you may tend slower than you actually are. Before Leaving on a Long Trip Make sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested. If you . must start when you’re not fresh -- such as after a day’s work -- don’t plan to make too many miles that first part of the journey. We,ar comfortable clothing and shoes you can easily drive in. Is your vehicle ready for a long trip? If you keep it serviced and maintained, it’s ready to go. If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Pontiac dealers all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help,if you need it.

Here are some things you can check before a trip: 0 Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full?

Are all windows clean inside and outside?

0 Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?

Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels?

0 Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses dean? 0 Tires: They are vitally irnportmt to a safe,

trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the recommended pressure?

0 Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook

along your route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?

Hill and Mountain Roads

Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Call it Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against it happen the vehicle that can make you sleepy. Don’t let to you! If it does, your vehicle can leave the road h Zess than a second, and you could crash and be injured. What can you do about highway hypnosis? First, be aware that it can happen. Then here are some tips:

Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a comfortably cool interior. Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your rearview mirrors and your instruments frequently. If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service or parking area and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.

Driving on steep hills or mountains is different from driving in flat or ,rolling terrain.

~f you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable.

Keep you vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle. These parts can work hard on mountain roads.

0 Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.

If ‘you don’t shift down, your brakes could get so hot that they wouldn’f work well. You would then have poor braking or even none going down a hill. You could crash. Shift down to let your engine assist your brakes on a steep downhill slope.

Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well. You would then have p m braking or even none going down a hill. 1 You could crash. Always have your engine running and your vehicle in gear when you go downhill.

Know how to go uphill. Shift down to THIRD (3). This will help cool your engine and transaxle, and you can climb the hill better.

0 Stay in your own h e when driving on two-lane

roads in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane.

0 As you go over the top of a hill, be dert. There could be something in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident. You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of specid ‘problems. Examples are long grades, passing or

: I’ no-passing zones, a falling rwkx area or winding

,:\. . . roads. Be alert to these and take appropriate action.

Winter Driving

Here are some tips for winter driving:

Have your Pontiac in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk.

Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include .a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap hgs to help provide traction. Be sure you properly secure these items in your vehicle.

4-25

Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and,, the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful.

What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the least traction of all. You can get wet ice when it’s about freezing (32°F; O°C) and freezing rain begins to fall. Try to avoid driving on wet ice until salt and sand crews can get there.

4-26

Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed, blowing or loose snow -- drive with caution. If you have traction control, keep the system on. It will ipprove your ability to accelerate when driving on a slippery road. Even though your vehicle. has a traction control system, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to the road conditions. See “Traction Control System” in the Index. If you don’t have the traction control system, accelerate gently. Try not to break the fragile traction. If you accelerate too fast, the drive wheels will spin and polish the surface under the tires even more.

Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock’’ in the Index.

Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spot that’s covered with ice. On an otherwise clear road, ice patches may appear in shaded areas where the sun can’t reach: around clumps of trees, behind buildings or under bridges. Sometimes the surface of a curve or an overpass may remain icy when the surrounding roads are clear. If you see a patch of ice ahead of you, brake before you are on it. Try not to brake while you’re actually on the ice, and avoid sudden steering maneuvers.

.I.

. .

4-27

If You’re Caught in a Blizzard

Tie a red cloth to your vehcle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats -- anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm. .

If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow, Here are some things to do to summon help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: 0 Turn on your hazard flashers.

You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

4-28

_I

-- 1. <.

A CAUTION:

i - .

Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide)'gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and kill you. Youxan't see it or smell it, so you might not it is in your vehicle. Clear away snow from ~ Q W around the base of your vehicle, especially any that is blocking your exhaust pipe. And check around again from time to time to be sure snow doesn't collect there. Open a window just a little on the side of the vehicle that's away from the wind. This will help keep CO out.

Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later OIZ with your headlamps. Let the heater run for awhile. Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes.

a .

4-29

Loading Your Vehicle

TIRE-LOADING IiNFORMATlON

'@I OCCUPANTS FRT. CTR. RR.

VEHICLE CAP. WT.

TOTAL

LBS.

KG

MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE COLD TIRE CAPAC,lTY WEIGHT

XXX

TIRE SIZE

SPEED RTG

PRESSURE PSI/KPa

FRT. RR. SPA. IF TIRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PS1/28KPa SEE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

W o 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.

MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP DATE GYWR GAWR FRT GAWR RR

THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLI- CABLE U.S. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE.

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 vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the fi-ont or rear axle. And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. Don't c q more than 176 lbs: (80 kg) in your h-unk.

Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the GVVVR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, or it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle.

NOTICE:

I Your warranty does not cover parts or

components that fail because of overloading.

If you put things inside your vehicle tools, packages or anything else -- they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they'll keep going.

-- like suitcases?

Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash.

Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a trunk, put them as far forward as you can. Try to spread the weight evenly. Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats. Don't leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. Don't leave a seat fold'ed down unless you need to.

Electronic Level Control (Option) This feature keeps the rear of your'vehide level as the load changes. It is automatic -- you do not need to adjust anything.

Towing a Trailer

If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you can lose control when you pull a brakes may not work well -- or even at all. You and &der. For example, if the trder is too,heavy, the your passengers could be’ seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section. Ask your Pontiac dealer for advice and information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.

I NOTICE:

’

Pulling a trailer improperly can damage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this part, and see your Pontiac dealer- for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle.

4-32 ‘

Do not tow a trailer if your vehicle is equipped with the SSE package. Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the SE package and proper trailer towing equipment. To is for your identify what’the vehicle ‘trailering capacity vehicle, you should read the information i.i “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailehg is different than just driving your vehicle by in handling;durability, itself. Trailering means changes and fuel economy. Successful, safe trailering takes correct equipment, and it has to be used properly. That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefially before you pull a trailer. Load-pulling_components such as the engine, transaxle, wheel assemblies and tires are forced to work harder against the drag of the added weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads, generatkig extra heat, What’s more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements,

If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer If you do, here are some important points:

There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering. Make sure your rig will be legal, not only where you.live but also where you’ll be driving. A good source for this information can be state or provincial police. Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. Don’t tow a trailer at all during the first 1,000 miles (1 600 h) your new vehicle is driven. Your engine, axle or other parts could be damaged. Then, during the first 500 miles (800 km) that you tow a trailer, don’t drive over 50 mph (80 km/h) and don’t make starts at full throttle. This helps your engine and other parts of your vehicle wear in at the heavier loads. Obey speed limit restrictions when towing a trailer. Don’t drive faster than the maximum posted speed for trailers (or no more than 55 mph (90 km/h)) to save wear on your vehicle’s parts.

Three important considerations have to do with weight:

trailer,

the weight of the the weight of the trailer tongue

d ,and the total weight on your vehicle’s tires.

Weight of the Trailer How heavy can a trailer safely be? It should never weigh more than 1,000 lbs. (450 kg). But even that can be too heavy. It depends on how you plan to use your example, speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and how much your vehicle is trailer are all important. And, special equipment that you have on your vehicle. You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at:

used to pull, a it can also depend on any

rig. For

Customer Assistance Center Pontiac Division One Pontiac. Plaza Pontiac, MI 48340-2952

In ‘Canada, write to:

General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7

.hi.

. \ ,

.+ .

,.

.. . - ’ Y

Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer’ is an important weight to measure because it affects the total capacity weight of your vehicle. The capacity weight includes the curb weight of the vehicle, my cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will%e riding in the vehicle. And if you will tow a trailer, you must subtract the tongue load from your vehicle’s capacity weight because your vehicle will be carrying that weight, too. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index for more information. about your vehicle’s maximum load capacity.

If you’re using a “dead-weight” hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a “weight-distributing” hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 1.2% of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some items around in the trailer. Total Weight on.Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires -are inflated to the recommended pressure for-cold tires. You’ll find these numbers ~ l t l the Certification label at the rear edge of the drivel’s door or see “Loading. Your Vehicle” in the Index. Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle, including the weight of the trailer tongue.

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Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment. Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow:

Will you have to make any holes in the body of your vehicle when you hstall a trailer hitch? If you do, then be sure to seal the holes later when you remove the hitch. If you don’t seal them, deadly carbon monoxide (CO) from your exhaust can get into your the Index). Dirt vehicle (see “Carbon Monoxide” in and water can, too. The bumpers on your vehicle are not intended for hitches. D o not attach rental hitches or other bumper-type hitches to them. Use only a frame-mounted hitch that does not attach to the bumper.

Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trgler manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attaching safety chains and do not attach them to the bumper. Always leave just enough slack so you can turn with your rig. And, never allow safety chains to drag on the ground. Trailer Brakes Does your trailer have its own brakes? Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle’s brake system. If you do, both brake systems won’t work well, or at all.

(_,.,.. !. ‘ , ) - * : 5 , .>:. . -. L,. t .,

.,

Driving with a nailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before seffing out for the open road, you’ll want to get to know your rig, Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer. And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as responsive as your vehicle is by itself. Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform (and attachments), safety chains, elec.ical connector, lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure‘ the brakes are working. This lets you check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check occasionally to, be sure that the load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer brakes are still working.

Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden tuns. Passing You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when yuu’re, towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. Backing Up Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. Then, to move the trailer to the to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible, have someone guide you.

left, just move that hand

I :

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Making Turns

NOTICE:

Making very sharp turns while trailering could cause the trailer to come in contact with the vehicle. Your vehicle could be damaged. Avoid making very sharp turns while trailering.

When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. ‘ . Turn ,Signals When Towing a Trailer’ When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your Pontiac dealer. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up,’ the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop.

know if

When towing a trailer, the green arrows on your instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not. It’s important to check occasionally to be sure the trailer bulbs are still working. Your vehicle has bulb warning lights. When you’plug a trailer lighting system into your vehicle’s lighting system, its bulb warning lights may not let you one of your lamps goes out. So, when you have a trailer lighting system plugged in, be sure vehicle and trailer lamps from time to time to be sure they’re all working. Once you disconnect the trailer lamps, the bulb warning lights again can tell of ypur vehicle lamps is out. Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade. down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they. would get hot and no longer work well. On a long uphill grade, shift down to D m reduce your speed to around 45 mph (70 km/h) to reduce the possibility of engine and transaxle overheating.

If you don’t shift

to check your

you if one

(D) and

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Parking on Hills You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1. Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into

PARK (P) yet.

2. Have someone place chocks under the trailer wheels. 3. When the wheel chocks are in place, release the regular brakes mil the chocks absorb the load.

4. Reapply the regular brakes. Then apply your pa;rking

brake, and then shift to PdRK (P).

’ 5. Release the regular brakes.

When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal

.down while you:

Start your engine;

e Shift into a gear; and

Release the parking brake.

2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3. Drive slowly until the trailer is clear of the chocks. 4. Stop and have someone pick up and store the chocks. Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will & service more often when you’re p m g a t r d e ~ See the Mainte~nance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are .automatic trande fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, belts, cooling system and brake adjustment. Each of these is-covered in this manual, and the Index will help you k d them quickly. If you’re tradering, it’s a good idea to review these sections before you start your trip. Check periodically to see that all hitch nuts and bolts are tight.

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Section 5 Problems on the Road

Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers

Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off.

Press the button in to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.

Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in.

5-1

To turn off the flashers, pull out on the collar. When the hazard w;?ming flashers are on, your turn signals won't work.

Other Warning Devices . % If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at &e side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Pontiac. But please follow the steps below to do it safely.

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CAL SION: