1996 Pontiac Bonneville Owners Manual

Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: 0 They contain ,acid that can burn you. 0 They contain gas that can explode or ignite. They contain enough electricity to burn you.

If you don't follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you.

NOTICE:

Remember that ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn't be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your Pontiac by pushing or pulling it won't work, and it could dam'age your vehicle.

1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt

battery with a negative ground system.

NOTICE:

NOTICE:

If the other system isn’t a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged.

2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables

can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching- each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Pontiac, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in NEUTRAL (N).

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

4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries.

An electric fan can start is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

even wl

3 the engine

3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug

unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter. Turn off all lamps that aren’t needed as well as radios. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. In addition, it could save your radio!

5-3

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

each battery.

6. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or

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

A CAUTION:

. m

Fans or other moving engme parts can injure yon badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engines are running.

Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to exp1ode:People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the Deko Freedom@ battery installed in every new GM vehicle, But if a battery has filler caps, be sure the right mount of fluid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present. Battery fluid contains acid that can burn you, Don’t get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, flush the place with water and get medical help immediately.

5-4

8. Don't let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terrninal if the vehicle has one.

7. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote Positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.

9. Now connect the black

negative (-) cable to the good battery’s negative (-) terminal.

Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery.

5-6

10. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away

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

11. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run

the engine for a while.

12. Try to start the vehicle with the dead battery. If it won’t start after a few tries, it probably needs service.

13. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent

electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal.

’

‘ e.;: :I ; .- , . > .

-.‘w .I

;. I

Towing Your Vehicle

.-

A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery

Try to have a Pontiac dealer or a professional towing service tow your Bonneville. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct.

- . 5-7

Before you do'anything, turn on the hazard waning flashers. When you cdl, tell the towing service:

That, if you have the SSE model, your vehicle cannot be towed from the front with sling-type equipment.

0 That your vehicle has front-wheel drive. 0 The make, model and year of your vehicle. 0 Whether you can still move the shift lever.

If there was an accident, what was damaged.

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

,. ' y . .

5-8

To help avoid injury to you or others:

Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never tow with damaged parts not fully secured.

0 Never get under your vehicle after it has

been lifted by'the tow truck.

0 Always secure the vehicle on each side with

separate safety chains when towing it. Never w e J-hooks. Use T-hooks instead.

A vehicle can fall from a car carSier if it isn’t adequately secured. This can cause a collision, serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains or steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing, qtc.) that can be cut by sharp edges underneath the towed vehicle. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots. Never use J-hooks. They will damage drivetrain and suspension components.

When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key turned to the OFF position. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steeriqg. column lock for this. The transaxle should be in NEUTRAL (N) and the parking brake released. Don’t have your vehicle towed on the drive wheels, unless you must. If the vehicle must be towed on the drive wheels, be sure to follow the speed and distance. restrictions later in this section or your transaxle will be damaged. If these limits must be exceeded, then the drive wheels have to be supported on a dolly.

5-9

Front Towing (SSE and SSEi Only)

NOTICE:

Do not tow with slmg-type equipment or fascidfog lamp damage will occur. Use wheel-lift or car carrieF equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car carrier equipment. Use safety chains and wheel straps. Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle to ground or vehicle to wheel-lift equipment. To help avoid damage, install a towing dolly and raise vehicle until adequate clearance is obtained between the ground and/or wheel-lift equipment. Do not attach winch cables or J-hooks to suspension components when using car carrier equipment. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots.

5-10

Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes in the bottom of the cradle, behind the front wheels.

These slots are to be used when loading and securing to car carrier equipment.

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

Front Towing (SE)

Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes in the bottom of the cradle, b’ehind the front wheds.

These slots &e to be used when using slingtype equipment or when’loading and securing to car carrier equipment.

5-12

Position a 4” x 4” wood beam across sling chains contacting bottom of the radiator support. Position the lower sling crossbar directly under the front bumper.

Rear Towing Tow Limits -- 55 mph (88 kmlh), 500 miles (800 km) Attach T-hook chains to slots in the bottom of the floor pan directly ahead of rear wheels on both sides.

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

No 4" x 4" wood beam is needed.

Position the lower sling crossbar directly behind and at lower edge of rear bumper cover.

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

5-14

Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage or the warning light about a hot engine on your Pontiac’s instrument panel. See “Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Coolant Temperature Warning Light” in the Index. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine

Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before opening the hood. If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch fire. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool.

NOTICE:

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

5-15

If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can driv'e. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning doesn't come back on, you can driv'e normally. If the warning continues, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there's still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for'two or three minutes while you're parked, to see if the warning stops. But then, if you still have the warning, turn oJjcthe engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away.

If No Steam ]Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be the engine can get a little too hot when you:

too serious. Sometimes

Climb a long hill on a hot day. 0 Stop af'ter high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic.

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

speed and open the window as necessary.

3. If you're in a traffic jam, shift to NEUTRAL (N);

otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving -- AUTUMbaTz[c OVERDRIVE (@) or DRIVE (D).

5-16

Cooling System When you decide it's safe to lift the hood, here's what you'll see:

An electric fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank don't do anything else until it cools down. .

is boiling,

A. Coolant recovery tank B. Radiator pressure cap C. Electric engine fans

5-17

,

A CAWTION:

‘The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark. If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the . radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or

somewhere else in the cooling system.

’

Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t m n the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could be burned. Get any leak fixed before you drive the vehicle.

I NOTICE: I Engine damage from running your engine

without coolant isn’t covered by your warranty.

If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine fans are running. If the engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they aren’t, your vehicle needs service.

How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the FULL COLD mark, add-a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL TM (orange-colored, silicate-free) antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolarit” in the Index for more information.)

Adding only plain water to your cooning system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper

CAUTION: (Continued)

-coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mix of clean water and DEX-COOL TM antifreeze.

NOTICE:

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

If the overheat warning continues, there's one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mix dire'ctly to the radiator, but b'e sure the cooling cool before you do it.

system is

Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They pressure cap -- even a little -- they can come out are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator

at high speed, Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap.

I I A CAUTION:

You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.

When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank FULL COLD mark, start your vehicle.

is at the

5-20

How to Add Coolant to the Radiator

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

2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push

down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap.

3. Fill the radiator with the proper mix, up to the base

of the filler neck.

4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL

COLD mark.

5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but

leave the radiator pressure cap off.

6. Start the engine and let it mn until you can feel the

upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine fans.

7. By this time the coolant level inside the radiator

filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add ' more of the proper mix through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck.

5-24

Air Inflator System

A CAUTION:

Inflating something too much can make it explode, and you or others could be injured. Be sure to read the inflator instructions, and inflate any object only to its recommended pressure.

Some vehicles have an air inflator for use in maintaining proper air pressure for the tires. The air inflator is located in the trunk. The ON switch will work only with the ignition on.

5-25

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

A CAUTION:

Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people. You and they could be badly injured. -Find a level place to change your tire. To help prevent the vehicle from moving:

1. Set the parking brake firmly. 2. Put the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. lbrn off the engine.

To b'e even more certain the vehicle won't move, you can put blocks at. the front and rear of the tire farthest away from the one being changed. That would be the tire on the other side of the vehicle, at the opposite end.

The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and c;lhange a tire.

Removing the Spare Tire and Tools

The equipment you’ll ,need is in the trunk. Pull the camethg. ‘from the floor of theku&. Turn the center retainer bolt on the spare tire cover counterclockwise to remove it.

Open the box that stores the jack and wheel wrench and then twist the wing bolt one-quarter turn counterclockwise.

Lift and remove the cover. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare. Remove the spare tire from the trunk.

Remove the jack and wheel wrench.

Removing N I * Caps

Wheel Covers and Wheel

To remove the wheel or nut cap covers for your particular vehicle, if you have steel wheels with full plastic wheel covers, loosen each nut cap using the wheel wrench.

The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheel wrench (6).

Please note that nut caps will not rmove from the cover completely.

If you have aluminum wheels with nut caps, remove them.,

Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire

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

1. Use the wheel wrench to loosen the wheel nuts, but

don't remove them.

5-29

2. Attach the wheel wrench to the jack, and rotate the ' a few inches.

wrench clockwise to raise the jack head Near each wheel well is a notch in the frame into which to put the jack head. The front notch is 10 inches (25 cm) back from the front wheel well. The rear notch is 8 inches (20 cm) forward from the rear wheel well.

3. Position the jack and raise, the jack head until it fits

firmly on the ridge in the vehicle's frame nearest the flat tire. Do not raise the vehicle yet. Put the compact spare tire near you.

! . .

Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack, you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack.

NOTICE:

Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack. Be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising your vehicle.

4. Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench

clockwise in the jack. Raise the vehicle off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit.

far enough

S. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.

5.-31

I

U. Remove any rust or dirt 1 r =

from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel.

....

: , .

- .

/r\ CAUTION:

Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle. In an emergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; but be sure to use a scraper or wire brush later, if you need to, to get all the rust or dirt off.

I A CAUTION:

Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident.

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

8. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench

counterclockwise on the jack. Lower the jack completely.

9. Tighten the wheel

nuts firqly in a ' criss-cross sequence.

Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to am accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get new GM original equipment wheel nuts. Stop somewhere as soon as you can and have the nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 100 b-ft (140 N-m).

NOTICE:

Improperly tightened. wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation 'and .rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification.

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

I NOTICE:

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

When you reinstall the full size wheel and tire, you install the wheel cover or nut caps at this point. '

When re-installing the full plastic wheel cover, align the valve stem symbol (which is molded into the back side of the cover) with the valve stem.

When re-installing the decorative nut caps on aluminum wheels, tighten the caps snug with the wheel wrench.

Start the nut cap by pushing it onto the lugnut with the .' wheel wrench. Tighten the plastic caps snug using the wheel wrench. Then, continue tightening one-quarter turn. Do not overtighten.

Then continue. tightening one-quarter turn for plastic ::-,.,-8:- ' . caps, or one-eighth turn for steel caps. Do not .,:\~.:, .&>. overtighten. When re-installing. the center cover, do not use a hammer or mallet, as they could damage the,cover.

, ' r

5-35

Storing the Flat Tire and Tools

Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

After you’ve put the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you’ll need to store the flat tire in your trunk. Use the following procedure to secure the flat tire in the trunk. Store the flat tire as far forward in the trunk as possible. in their box in the trunk Store the jack and wheel wrench on the passenger’s side.

5-36

Storing the Spare Tire and Tools

Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place.

The compact spare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section. See the storing instructions label to replace your compact spare into your trunk properly.

2‘

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Jack Wheel Wrench Wing Bolt Tire Cover Bolt

5-37

Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was frilly inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be.60 psi (420 Wa). After installing the compact spare can your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated. The compact spare is made to perfom well at posted speed limits for distances up to 3,000 miles (5 000 km), so YOU can f ~ s h your trip and have your full-size tire repaired or replaced where you want. Of course, it’s best to replace your spare with a full-size tire as soon as you can. Your spare will last longer and be in good shape in case you need it again.

NOTICE:

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

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

NOTICE:

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

If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.

is stuck is

NOTICE:

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

If you let your tires spin at high speed, they can explode, and you or others could be injured. And, the transaxle or other parts of the vehicle can overheat. ,That could cause an engine compartment fire or other damage. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible. Don’t spin the wheels above 35 mph (55 kmlh) as shown on the speedometer.

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

NOTES

--* - ,

.-.

. . ., .- .

Section 6 Service and Appearance Care

Here you will find mformation about the care of your Pontiac. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care. Service Your Pontiac dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer for all your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and G.M-trained and supported service people. We hope you’ll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks:

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

r -

6-1

You can be injured and your vepicle could be damaged if‘ you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it.

Be sure you have sufficient .knowledge, experience, and the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. Be sare to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. %nglishs’ and “metric” fasteners can be easily confhsed. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break ‘ or fall off. You could be hurt.

Fuel . . ‘ _. . . . b ’ .’. ,. - - -The 8th digit of your vehicle identification number .. I ’ Y i, (VIN) shows the code letter for your engine. You ,will find the VIN at the top left of your instrument panel. (See “Vehicle Identification Number” m the Index.)

If you don’t have the 3.8L supercharged Code 1 engine, use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. If you have the 3.8L supercharged, Code 1 ehgine, use premium unleaded gasoline rated at 9 1 octane or higher. At a minimum, the gasoline you use should meet specifications ASTM I34814 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93 in Can& Improved gasoline specifications have been developed by the American Automobile Manufacturers Association (AAMA) for better vehicle performance and ehgine protection. Gasolims meeting the AAMA specification could provide improved driveability and emission control system protkction compared to other gasolines. Be sure the posted octane for premium is at least 91 (at least 89 for middle grade and 87 for regular), I€ the octane is less than 87, you may get a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If it’s bad-enough, it can damage your engine. . If you have the 3.8L supercharged Code 1 engine, in an emergency, you may be able to use a lower octane -- as low as 87 -- if heavy knocking does not occur. If you are using 91 or higher octane unleaded gasoline and you still hear heavy knocking, YQW engine needs service.

to

To provide cleaner air, all gasolines are now required contain additives that will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system, allowing your emission control system to function properly. Therefore, you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In addition, gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area to help clean the air. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines they mcomply with the specifications described earlier.

if

NOTICE:

Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn’t be covered under your warranty.

If you’re using fuel rated at the recommended octane or higher and you stiil hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don’t worry if you hear a little pinging noise when you’re accelerating or driving up a hill. That’s normal, and you don’t have to buy a higher octane fuel to get rid of pinging. It’s the heavy, constant knock that means you have a problem. If your vehicle is certified to meet California Emission Standards (indicated on the underhood tune-up ’label), it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California specifications. If such fuels are not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal specifications, but emission control system performance may be eected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on and/or-your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized Pontiac dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such fuels, your

, emission control system performance may deteriorate and the malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, return to your authorized Pontiac dealer for service.

Fuel Door Lock (Option) On a model equipped with the theft-deterrent the fuel dpor is locked and unlocked together with the power door locks. Therefore, to unlock the fuel filler door, you may use the outside door key lock, the inside power door lock button or the Remote Keyless Entry key chain transmitter. To unlock the fuel door, d o c k all doors. If the remote keyless entry transmitter is used, the UNLOCK button must be pressed twice.

system,

fuel not

Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other recommended in the previops text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn't be covered by your wairanty. To' check on fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you'll be driving. You can also write us at the following address for. advice. Just tell us Where you're going and give your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

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

6-4

Filling Your Tank

A CAUTION:

Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re near gasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames, and smoking materials away from gasoline.

The cap is behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of your vehicle.

6-5

While refueling, hang the cap inside the he1 door.

If you have the (L36)~ 3800 V6 engine, your fuel cap will be tethered and y w cannot hang it on the inside fuel door while refueling. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise),

6-6

When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until fully install you .hear at least three clicks. Make sure you the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been, left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See “Malfmction Indicator Lamp” in the Index.

NOTICE:

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

If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any ‘(hiss” noise to stop. Then un,screw the cap all the way.

Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Pontiac” in the Index.

Fuel Door Manual Release (‘Option) If your vehicle has a fuel door lock, the fuel door can be opened manually in case of an electrical power failure.

Checking T,hings Under the Hood The following sections tell you how to check fluids, lubricants and important underhood parts.

A CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.

Open the trunk, the release mechanism is on the driver’s side of the vehicle, at the top of the trunk compartment. Pull the tab rearward to release the fuel door.

A CAUTION:

NOTICE:

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

Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine.

6-8

Hood Release

To open the hood, first pull the hood release handle inside the vehicle. It is next to the parking brake pedal near the floor.

Then go to the front of the vehicle and push up on the secondary hood release. Lift the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly.

3800 Series I1 Engine (L36 - Code K)

When you open the b o d , you’ll see:

A. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank B. Battery C . Radiator Pressure Cap

D. Engine Oil Dipstick E. Engine Oil Fill Cap F. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick

G. Brake Master Cylinder H. Air Cleaner I. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir

6-10

3800 Supercharged Engine (L67 - Code 1) (Option) When you open the hood, ~ 0 1 1 ' 1 1 see:

A. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank B. Battery C . Radiator Pressure Cap

D. Engine Oil Dipstick E. Engine Oil Fill Cap F. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick I. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir

G. Brake Master Cylinder H. Air Cleaner

6-11

Supercharged Engine (Option) Your Bonneville may have a 3800 Supercharged engine. to pump The supercharger is a device which is designed more air into the engine than it would normally use. This air mixed with fuel, creates increased engine power. Since the supercharger is a pump and is driven from an engine accessory drive belt, increased pressure is available at all driving conditions. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM), works with a vacuum control to regulate the increased pressure required during specific driving conditions. When this increased pressure or boost is not desired, such as during idling and light throttle cruising, the excess air that the supercharger is pumping is routed through a bypass. All of these controls, working together provide high performance character and fuel efficiency in the 38010 V6 Supercharged engine. The-power steering pump uses a remote reservoir mounted on the throttle and cruise control cable bracket. See “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index for when you should check the fluid. , .

- . .. ..

Engine Oil

If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.

CHECK OIL

LEVEL

For more information, see “Check Oil Level Light” in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.

’

: ?

6-12

The engine oil dipstick is located immediately behind the engine fans and in front of the engine oil fill cap. The top of the dipstick is a round, yellow loop.

Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level.

it with a paper towel or

Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level.

6-13

What Kind of Oil to Use

When to Add Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by add some oil. But you must use the right kind. This part looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index. does not carry this Starburst symbol. I NOTICE: Don’t add too much oil. If your engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, your engine could be damaged.

If you change your own oil, be sure you use oil that has the Starburst symbol on, the front, of the oil container. If you have your oil changed for you, be sure. the oil put into your engine is American Petroleum Institute certified for gasoline engines.

You should also use the proper viscosity oil for your vehicle, as shown in the following chart:

The engine oil fill cap is behind the engine oil dipstick and engine fans. in the Just fill it enough to put the level somewhere proper operating range. Push tKe dipstick all the way back in when you’re through.

I I SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE.

FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST

RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS

HOT

WEATHER

WOK FOR THIS SYMBOL

SAE 10W-30 PREFEMEO abow (PF

(-18°C)

SAE 5W-30

COLD

WEATHER

DO NOT USE SAE MW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED

As shown.in the chart, SAE 1OW-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 5W-30 if it’s going to be colder than 60 OF (1 6 O C) before your next oil S A E change. When it’s very cold, you should use 5W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its oils, viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity such as SAE 20W-50.

NOTICE:

Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty.

GM Goodwrench@ oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle. Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Pontiac dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added.

6-15

What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy -for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine oil. (See the manufacturer’s warnings .about the use and disposal of oil products.) Used oil can be a real threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all free-flowing oil of oil from the filter before disposal. Don’t ever dispose by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of y o u used oil, ask your dealer, a service station or a local recycling center for help.

Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). Most trips are through dusty areas. You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of your vehicle. The vehicle is used for delivery service, police, taxi or other commercial application.

to

Driving under these conditions causes engine oil break down sooner. If any one of these is true for your vehicle, then you need to change your oil and filter every 3,000 miles (5 000 km) or ,3 months -- whichever occurs first. If none of them is true, change the oil and filter every 7,500 miles (12 500 km) or 12 months -- whichever occurs fiist. Driving a vehicle with a fully warmeld engine under highway conditions causes engine oil to break down slower.

6-16

Air Cleaner Before servicing the air cleaner, remove the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) cover by removing the two wing nuts. The PCM is located on the driver’s side front edge of the engine compartment.

1. Remove the two screws on the air cleaner

housing cover.

2. Remove the air intake hose that snaps over the

throttle body by pulling the hose upward and away from the throttle body. After detaching the hose from the throttle body, pull back the entire rear portion of the air cleaner by pulling upward and rearward.

6-17

I

Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off.

NOTICE:

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

3. Replace the air filter. 4. Re-install the rear section of the air cleaner. 5. Reattach the air intake hose. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index.

,. . .. . . .

Supercharger Oil

Unless you are technically qualified and have the proper tools, you should let your dealer or a qualified service center perform this maintenance.

How to Check and Add Oil Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the running. engine to cool two to three hours after

If you remove the supercharger oil fill plug while the engine is hot, pressure may cause hot oil to blow out of the oil fill hole. You may be burned. Do not remove the plug until the engine cools.

When to Check Check oil level every 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or every 36 months, whichever occurs ,first. What Kind of Oil to Use See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index and use only the recommended oil.

1. Remove the wiring harness shield. 2. Clean the area around the oil fill plug before

removing it.

3. Remove the oil fill plug using a Torx@ drive. 4. The oil level is correct when it just reaches the

bottom of the threads of the inspection hole.

5. Replace the oil plug with the O-ring in place. Torque

to 88 lb-in (10 N-m).

6. Replace wiring harness shield.

Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the fluid and filter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions:

In .heavy eity.traffic where the 'outside temperature regularly reaches 90 O F (32 O C ) or higher.

0 In hilly or mountainous terrain. 0 When doing frequent trailer towing. 0 Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid and filter do not require changing. See "Scheduled Maintenance Services" in the Index.

I . ( . . :.-'Bow to Check

Because &is operation can be a little dBicult, you may choose to have this done at your P'ontiac dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be' sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.

NOTICE:

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

if you check your

Wait at least 30 minutes before checking.& .@an: Je fluid level if you have been driving: 0 When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). 0 At high speed for quite a while.

In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer.

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

Checking the Fluid Level

Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running.

0 With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever

in PARK (P).

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

then pull it back out again.

0 With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift

lever through each gear range, pausing three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). Let the engine run at idle for three to five minutes.

for about

Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps:

I. The transhission

oil dipstick top is a round, red loop' and is next to the brake master cylinder behind the engine block. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel.

3.

4.

Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way.

6-21

How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what bind of tmhsaxle fluid to use. See 6‘Recomended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick.

Pull out the dipstick. Using a long-neck funnel, add enough M d at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level. It doesn’t take much fluid, generally less than a pint (0.5 L). Don’t overfiI2. We recommend you use only fluid labeled DEXRON*-III,, because fluid with that label is made especially for yo& automatic transax18e. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON’@-III is not covered by your new vehicle warranty. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under “How to Check.” When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way.

is filled with new silicate-free) engine

Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle DEX-COOL (orange-colored, coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 100,000 miles (166 000 km), whichever occurs first. The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. A 50/50 mixture of water &d the proper coolant for your Pontiac will:

Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to 265 O F (1 29 O C). Protect against rust and corrosion. Help keep the proper engine temperature. Let the warning lights and gages work as they should.

NOTICE:

GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) (GM Part No. 3634621) with any complete coolant change. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else.

When adding coolant it is important that you use DEX-COOL TM (orange-colored, silicate-free) coolant meeting GM Specification 6277M. If silicated coolant is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine ’

-coolant will require change sooner -- at

‘ .

308,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months whichever occurs first.

What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL silicate-free) antifreeze that meets GM Specification 6277M, which won’t damage aluminum parts. Use

(orange-colored,

Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid like alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mix will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mix. With plain water or the wrong mix, your engine could get too hot but you wouldn’t get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch fire and you or others could be burned. Use a 5060 mix of clean water and DEX-COOL TM (orange-colored, silicate-free) antifreeze.

Checking Coolant

NOTICE:

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

If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system.

NOTICE:

If YOU use the proper coolant, you don’t have to add extra inhibitors or additives which claim to improve .the system. These can be harmful.

When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at FULL COLD or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to FULL HOT or a little higher.

LOW

COOLANT

If this light comes on, it means you're low on engine coolant.

A CALJTION:

lhrning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap

-- even a little -- when the engine and radiator are hot.

Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper mix at the coolant recovery tank.

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

You can be burned if you spill coolant, on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if'the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine.

6-25

1 I

.:

- - $ , .

Radiator Pressure Cap

Power Steering Fluid

NOTICE:

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

:; '

-%.Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolaxit system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature.

6-26

When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired.

Adding Washer Fluid

How To Check Power Steering Fluid When the engine compartment is cool, unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag. Replace the cap and completely tighten it. Then remove the cap again and look at the fluid level on the dipstick. The level should be at the FULL COLD mark. If necessary, add only enough fluid to bring the level up to the mark. What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid can cause leaks and dam’age hoses and seals. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient protection against freezing.

Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY Add washer fluid until the tank is full.

6-27

NOTICE:

Brakes Brake Fluid

When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.

0 Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage yoqr washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid.

0 Fill your washer fluid tank only 3/4 full

when it’s very cold. This allows for expansion, which could damage the tank if it is completely full.

0 Don’t use radiator antifreeze in your

windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint.

6-28

Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here. It is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. There me only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up. The other reason is that fluid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have

your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off’ your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t gorrect a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have too much fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work done on the brake hydraulic system.

is

What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme 11 No. 1052535). Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only, and always clean the brake reservoir cap before removing it.

(GM Part

fluid.

X L U T I O N :

With the wrong kind of fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.

If you have too much brake fluid, it can spill on the engine. The fluid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake fluid only when work is done on. the brake hydraulic system.

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

NOTICE:

Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oi1,’in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be rep,laced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind of fluid. If you spill brake fluid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint finish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake fluid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See “Appearance Care” in the Index.

6-30

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

I A CAUTION:

The brake wear warning sound means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.

I NOTICE:

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

Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Free movement of brake calipers and properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake calipers for movement, brake pads for wear, and evenly torque wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM specifications. Your rear drum brakes don’t have wear indicators, but if you ever hear a rear brake, rubbing noise, have the rear brake linings inspected. Also, the rear brake drums should be removed and inspected each time the tires are removed for rotation or changing. When you have the front brakes replaced, have the rear brakes inspected, too. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the vehicle moving, your brakes adjust for wear.

Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake parts in them, as your Pontiac does when it is.new. When you replace parts of your braking system -- for example, when your brake linings wear down and you in -- be sure you get new have to have new ones put genuine GM replacement parts. If you don’t, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change -- for the worse. The braking performance you’ve come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Battery Every new Pontiac has a Delco Freedom@ battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom battery. Get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, take off the black, negative (-) cable from

: 1 ..I . ..

6-31

the battery. This will help keep your battery from

running down. A CAUTION:

A CAUTION:

Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful. See “Jump Starting” in the’hclex for tips on working around a battery without getting b r t .

:ontact your deder to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Also, for your audio system, see “Theft-Deterrent Feature” in the Index.

r .

..

I -

Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package.

If you go through a high pressure car wash, or it is very humid, your headlamps may “fog up.” This is normal. The lenses should clear by themselves in time. Headlamps or bulb type, s,ee “Replacement Bulbs” in the Idex.

Driver's Side Replacement

Passenger's Side Replacement

1. Reach behind the headlamp assembly and turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise to remove the bulb assembly.

1. Remove the two bolts with a 10 mm socket.

2. Remove the bulb from the assembly. 3. Replace the bulb and reverse the steps to install the

-c

new bulb assembly.

6-33

2. Slide the headlamp assembly outward (to the left)

and lift it out.

3. Tip the assembly and turn the bulb assembly

counterclockwise to remove it.

6-34

4. Replace the bulb and reverse the steps to install the

new bulb assembly.

Sidemarker Lamps 1. Remove headlamp assembly on both sides of the vehicle, using the passenger’s side headlamp in this removal procedure as described previously section.

2. Turn the sidemarker lamp bulb assembly

counterclockwise to remove.

3. ‘Replace the bulb by turning clockwise. 4. Install the headlamp assemblies using the procedure

for the-passenger’s side headlamp installation as described previously in this section.

Fog Lamps 1. Reach up under the front of the car to the fog

lamp connector.

!. Unplug the connector and twist the bulb

counterclockwise to remove. Notice: There are adjustment screws near the fog lamp assembly. Take care not to touch these screws.

3. Twist the replacement bulb clockwise to install. 4. Plug in the connector.

Rear Quarter Tail/Stop/Turn SignaUSidemarker Lamps For bulb type, see “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index.

1. Remove the plastic nut holding the c q h g in place. 2. Pull the carpeting away from the rear corner of

the trunk.

6-36

3. Turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise to remove it.

4. Replace the bulb and reverse the steps to insta

.ll the

new bulb assembly.

Runk Mounted Taillamps and Back-up Lamps For bulb type, see “Replacement Bulbs”

in the Index.

1. Push in on the center of the plastic push pin with a

pen. The push pin should eject.

6-37

2. Pull the pin with your fingers to remove it. (There are four pins altogether -- two on the driver’s side and two on the passenger’s side.)

3. Remove the five nuts that hold the assembly in place with a 10 mm socket. Pull carpet up and out of the way to remove center nut. (There are two nuts on the driver’s side, two on the passenger’s side and one in the middle.)

4. Lift up on both plastic side flaps at the same time (driver’s side shown) and lift the assembly out.

5. Carefully let go of the decklid and let it raise

completely. The assembly will still be connected to the wiring harness, but now you will have access to the bulbs.

6. Turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise to remove it.

7. Pull out the taillamp bulb to remove it.

8. If you are replacing the back-up bulb, it must be

turned and pulled but to be removed.

9. Reverse the steps to install the new bulb assembly.

6-40

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. Here’s how to remove the type with a release clip: 1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away fiom the windshield. 2. Push down on the release clip with a screwdriver and

pull the blade assembly off the wiper arm.

Tires We don’t make tires. Your new Pontiac comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Pontiac Warranty booklet for details.

1 A CAUTION:

Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous.

Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index.

CAUTION: (Continued)

3. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm. ’ For the correct windshield wiper blade replacement length and type, see “Capacities

and Specifications’’ in the Index.

6-41

Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be ch’ecked when your tires are cold. Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured or broken by a sudden

impact -- such as when you hit a pothole.

Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them.

Inflation - Tire Pressure

The Tire-Loading Informkion label which is on the rear edge of the driver’s door shows the correct inflation pressur,es for yow tires when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than a mile.

NOTICE:

Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation or overinflation is all right. It’s not. If your tires don’t have enough air (underinflation), you can get the following:

Too much flexing

0 Too much heat 0 Tire overloading @ Badwear 0 Bad handling 0 Bad fuel economy. If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get the following:

Unusual wear 0 Bad handling

Rough ride

0 Needless damage from road hazards.

When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa). How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tires may look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems. They help prevent l & s by keeping out dirt and moisture. Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be inspected every 6,000 to 8,000 miles (10 000 to 13 000 km) for any signs of unusual wear. If unusual -wear is present, rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See “When It’s Time for Ne,w Tires” and “Wheel Replacement” later in for more information.

this section