1993 Pontiac Firebird Owners Manual

1993 PONTIAC Firebird

OWNER'S MANUAL

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Firebird Introduction HOW to Use This Manual Part 1 Seats & Safety Belts. . Part 2 Features & Controls . Part 3 Comfort Controls & Audio Systems Part 4 Your Driving and the Road. Part 5 Problems on the Road . Part 6 Service & Appearance Care Part 7 Maintenance Schedule Part 8 Customer Assistance Information Part 9 Index ..........

1993 Owner’s Manual Table of Contents . rn . rn . 45 .I07 - . 129 m 181 215 279 307 J 323 last Page

Service Station Information

Including “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 312.

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Printed in U.S.A.

Part No. 10193572 B

Second Printing

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

in this manual.

If you

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual A m propri6taires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en francais chez votre concessionaire ou au DGN Marketing Services Ltd., 1500 Bonhill Rd., Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7.

Published by Pontiac Division

General Motors Corporation

General Motors, GM and the GM emblem, Pontiac and the Pontiac emblem, and Firebird and the Firebird emblem are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. 0 Copyright 1992 General Motors Corporation, Pontiac Division. AU Rights Reserved.

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How to Use l%is Manual

Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. This will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index: A good place to look for what you need is the Index in back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it.

Parts 1-8: Each part of this manual begins with a brief list of its contents, so you can often find at a glance if a part contains the information you want. How to Use This Manual This part tells you how to use your manual and includes safety and vehicle damage warnings and symbols. Part 1: Seats & Safety Belts This part tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly.

Part 2: Features & Controls This part explains how to start and operate your Pontiac . Part 3: Comfort Controls & Audio Systems This part tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your sound system.

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How to Use This Manual

These mean there is something that could hurt you or other

people.

Safeiy Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use yellow and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning. In the yellow caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

Part 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. Part 5: Problems on the Road This part tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or engine overheating. Part 6: Service & Appearance Care Here the manual tells you how to keep your Pontiac running properly and looking good. Part 7: Maintenance Schedule This part tells you when to perform maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. . I . 4

Part 8: Customer Assistance Information This part includes important information about reporting safety defects and gives you details about the “Roadside Assistance” program. You will also find customer satisfaction phone numbers (including customer satisfaction numbers for the hearing and speech impaired), as well as the mediationlarbitration procedure. We’ve also included ordering information for service publications in this part. Service Station Information This is a quick reference of service information. You can find it on the last page of this manual.

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3 1

NO TIC€

You will also find a red circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,” “Don’t do this,” or “Don’t let this happen.”

Vehicle llamage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these blue notices. In the blue notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage.

When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. In this manual, we’ve used the familiar words and colors that Pontiac has used for years. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same colors, and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.

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How to Use This Manual

Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you will find on your vehicle. For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:

driven:

lights:

is

Theqe symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your These symbols have to vehicle

do with your

Caution Possible Injury

Fasten Safety Belts

Hazard Warning Flasher

Protect Eyes by Shielding

Door LocWUnlock

Headlight High Beam

Caustic Battery Acid Could Cause Burns

Avoid Sparks or Flames

Sparks or Flame Could Explode Battery

These symbols have to do with your lights:

Parking Lights

Master Lighting Switch

Turn Signal Direction

Fog Lights

Courtesy Lights

These symbols are on some of your controls:

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

Windshield Wiper

Windshield Washer

Windshield Defroster

Rear Window Defogger

Ventilating Fan

Engine Coolant Temperature

Battery Charging System

Fuel

I 3

Hood Release

Engine Oil Pressure

Brake

Anti-Lock Brake System (Canada)

Hatchback Release

Lighter

Horn

Speaker

Notes

Part 1 Seats & Safety Belts

Controls

..............................................

10 Seats and Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Why Safety Belts Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Here Are Questions Many People Ask about Safety Belts - and the Answers ... 19 Safety Belt Reminder Light ........................................... 20 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ..................................... 20 Children .......................................................... 33 .................................................... 35 Child Restraints LargerChildren .................................................... 41 Safety Belt Extender ................................................ 43 Checking Your Restraint Systems ...................................... 43 Replacing Safety Belts after a Crash .................................... 43

Seat

H e r e YOU’II find information about the seats in your Pontiac and how to use your safety belts properly . You can also learn about some not do with things safety

you should belts .

Seats & Safety Belts

Seuts and Seat Con&& This section tells you about the seats - haw to adjust them, and also about reclining h n t seatbacks, satback latches and the folding rear seatback.

Four- Way Mawal Seat ( O P T ~ N ) To move the driver’s seat forward or

1 backward, lift the lever under the left

front of the seat. To tilt the entire seat, lift the lever under the right front of the seat.

Manual Front Seat I CAUTION:

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a

manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle

I is not moving.

Move the lever under the front seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.

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Six- Way Power Seat ( 0 ~ ~ 1 0 ~ ) The driver’s seat has three controls on the left side. The front control makes the front of the seat go up and down. The back control makes the back of the seat go up and down. The center control makes the whole seat go up and down or forward and backward.

Fully Articulating Sport Seat (OPTION) [f your Pontiac has these seats, the driver’s seat has the four-way manual seat adjuster, See “Four-Way Manual Seat” earlier in this part. The passenger seat has the two-way manual seat adjuster. See “Manual Front Seat” earlier in this part. To adjust the thigh support, pull up on the front of your seat cushion and move the support to the position you want. To release the support, continue pulling up. To engage it again, push down firmly.

The switch pads on the outer sides of the ;eats “inflate” and “deflate” parts of your seatback.

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Se’ats & Safety Belts

The two buttons that have “dots” inflate and deflate the outer parts of the seatback. To inflate, push the raised button. To deflate, push the indented button.

The two buttons without “dots” inflate and deflate the lumbar (lower part of the seatback) support. To inflate, push the raised button. To deflate, push the indented button.

Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the lever, and the seat will go to its original upright position. But don’t have the seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when

you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.

Seats & Safety Belts -R

FroN Seatback Latches The frwm seatbacks foid forward to let people get into- the back s a t . To fold a seatback forward, push the seatback toward the rear as you lift this latch. Then the seatback will fold forward.

When you return the seatback to its original position, make sure the seatback is locked. The latch must be down for thc seat to work properly.

If the seatback isn't locked, L it could move forward in a 1 sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting .' :re. Always press rearward on the scatback to be sure it is locked.

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Folding Rear Seatback The rear seatback in your Pontiac folds h w n to provide more storage space. To fold the seatback down: 1. Pull forward on both levers. 2. Fold the seatback down. To raise the seatback: 1. Pull it up to the locked, upright

position.

2. Be sure both latches hold the seatback

in place. Have them fixed if they don’t.

Safety Belts: They’re for E vervone

t l - -

- - 4 - - - -

This part of the manual tells you how to 11, ,\ Don’t let anyone ride where some things you should not do with safety I I you,re not wearing a safety belt,

they can’t wear a safety belt in a crash and

properly- It

use safety

properly. If you are

You

belts. And it explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint, or “air bag” system.

your injuries can be much worse.

I I you can hit things inside the vehicle

or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed. In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

Seats & Safety Belts

Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. For example, if the bike is going 10 mph

This figure lights up when you turn the key to Run or Start when your safety belt isn’t buckled, and you’ll hear a chime, too. It’s the reminder to buckle up. In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work.

You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are very mild. In them, you won’t get hurt even if you’re not buckled up. And some crashes can be so serious, like being hit by a train, that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could be badly hurt or killed. After 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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Nhen the bike hits the block, it stops. But he child keeps going!

rake the simplest “car.” Suppose it’s just I seat on wheels.

Put someone on it.

Seats & Safety Belts

Get it up to speed. Then stop the “car.” The rider doesn’t stop.

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

or the instrument panel ...

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

Here Are Questions Many People Ask about Safety Belts - and the Answers

Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

A: You could be - whether you’re

wearing a safety belt or not. But you can easily unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted.

Q: Why don’t they just put in air bags so people won’t have to wear safety belts?

A: “Air bags,” or Supplemental Inflatable

Restraint systems, are in some vehicles today and will be in more of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only - so they work with safety belts, not instead of them. Every “air bag” system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has “air bags,’’ you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.

Seats & Safety Belts

Q: If I’m a good driver, and I never

drive far from home, why should I wear safety belts?

A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident - even one that isn’t your fault - you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers.

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

Safety Belt Reminder Light

When the key is turned to Run or Start, a light will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts. Unless the driver’s safety belt is buckled, a chime will also sound.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly

Adults This section is only for people of adult size.

,

First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position. Driver Position This section describes the driver’s restraint system.

Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see

“Seats” in the Index) so you can sit up straight.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the

belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted.

I. Push the latch plate into the buckle

until it clicks. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle faces upward or outward so you would be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever had to.

Seats & Safety Belts

5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash.

Q: What’s wrong with this? A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t

give nearly as much protection this way.

You can be seriously hurt if

I db your shoulder belt is too loose.

In a crash you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.

Q: What’s wrong with this? A,: The belt is buckled in the wrong

place.

A You can be seriously injured if

your belt is buckled in the

wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

I Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The shoulder belt is worn under the

ann. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.

- you wear the shoulder belt A You can be seriously injured if under your arm. In a crash, your belt body would move too far forward, which would .increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply t o o much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could-also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.

1 Q: What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is twisted across the body.

--

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt.

In a crash, you full width of the

wouldn’t have the

to spread impact

forces. If a belt

is twisted, make work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

it straight so it can

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Seats & Safety Beltq

To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

Suppkmtal M a W e Resfraht System (Air Bags) This section explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR), or “air bag,” system. Your Pontiac has an air bag for both the driver and the right-front passenger.

€ lere’s the most important thing to know:

Even with an air bag, if you’re U not wearing a safety belt and

you’re in a crash, your injuries may be much worse. Air bags are not designed to inflate in rollovers or in rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. You need to wear your safety belt to reduce the chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag.

CAUTION:

Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of

an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag, and the driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

CAUTION:

An inflating air bag can

L seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the “Children and Safety Belts” section of this manual, and read the caution label on the front-passenger’s safety belt .

Air Bag System Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which has AIR BAG on it. The system checks itself and the light tells you if there is a problem. You will see this light flash for a few seconds when you turn your ignition to Run or Start. Then the light should go out, which means the system is ready.

Seats & Safety Belts

If the air bag readiness light

- doesn’t come on when you start your vehicle, or stays on, or ‘comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle

How the Air Bag System Works Where is the air bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.

The right-front passenger air bag is hated in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.

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When is an air bag expected to inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will only inflate if the velocity of the impact is above the designed threshold level. When impacting straight into a wall that does not move or deform, the threshold level for most GM vehicles is between 9 and 14 mph (14 and 23 km/h). However, this velocity threshold depends on the vehicle design and may be several miles-per-hour faster or slower. In addition, this threshold velocity will be considerably higher if the vehicle strikes an object such as a parked car which will move and deform on impact. The air bag is also not designed to

inflate in rollovers, side impacts, or rear impacts where the inflation would provide no occupant protection benefit. In any particular crash, the determination of whether the air bag should have inflated cannot be based solely on the level of damage on the vehicle(s). Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration, of which vehicle damage is only one indication. Repair cost is not a good indicator of whether an air bag should have deployed.

What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, sensors strategically located on the vehicle detect that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. These sensors complete an electrical circuit, triggering a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates a cloth bag. The inflator, cloth bag, and related hardware are all part of the air bag inflator modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the passenger.

Seats & Safety Belts

How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not provide protection in many types of collisions, including rollovers and rear and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belt protection in m . 9 2 8

moderate to severe frontal and near-frontal collisions. What will you see after an air bag inflation? After the air bag has inflated, it will then quickly deflate. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize that the air bag inflated. The air bag will not impede the driver’s vision or ability to steer the vehicle, nor will it hinder the occupants from exiting the vehicle. There will be small amounts of smoke coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag or the instrument panel for the passenger’s bag may be hot for a short

time, but the portion of the bag that comes into contact with you will not be hot to the touch. The nitrogen gas used to inflate the air bag will have vented into the passenger compartment, and the bag will be deflated within seconds after the collision. Nitrogen makes up about 80% of the air we breathe and is not hazardous. As the nitrogen vents from the bag, small particles are also vented into the passenger compartment. In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may occur in vehicles with passenger air bags because the windshield acts as a reaction surface for the inflating air bag.

0

0 Don’t attach anything to the steering wheel pad. lt

might injure the driver if the air bag inflates. Don’t set anything on or attach anything to the instrument panel. It might injure the passenger if the air bag inflates. The air bags are designcu to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some neu parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in anothe- crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.

It you damage the cover tor the right-front passenger’s air bag, i may not work properly. You ma have to replace both the ai instrument panel. Don For up the break

the

air bag cover.

ignition turned is

key

I f

that it has

Servicing Your Pontiac with the Air Bag System Please tell or remind anyone who works inflates. the air bag on your Pontiac system. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. The air bag system does not need regular maintenance. Your Pontiac dealer and the 1993 Firebird Service Manual have information about the air bag system, including repair or disposal.

to 2 rn1nuLes mter me off and ’‘I I I the battery discGnnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it

Be sure to follow the proper

service procedures.

When electrical work is done under the hood or inside your vehicle, the ignition should be in LOCK if possible. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape, or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system.

299 9

Seats & Safety Belts

Your vehicle has a driver’s air bag and a right-front passenger’s air bag. Both bags must be disconnected if the ignition has to be on for electrical work or if the steering column is to be disassembled. First, disconnect the driver’s air bag like this: 1. Turn off the ignition. 2. Remove the SIR (air bag) fuse.

(See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers’’ in the Index.)

3. Disconnect the yellow connector at

the base of the steering column.

After you follow this procedure for the driver’s air bag, then disconnect the

right-front passenger’s air bag like this: 1. Remove the cover under the

instrument panel.

2. Disconnect the small yellow

connector below the glove box.

When the work is complete, if the air bag system was disconnected, be sure to reattach everything and replace the fuse before turning the ignition on. When you turn the ignition key on, be sure you see the air bag readiness light on the instrument panel. If you don’t see this light flash and then go out as usual, have your air bag system repaired.

Safety Belt Use during Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible throughout the pregnancy. The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.

Passenger Positions Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this part.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the

beIt across you. Don’t let it g.et twisted.

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle

until it clicks.

Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety .belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. The rear seats have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

Seats 81 Safety Belts

3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle faces upward or outward so you would be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever had to.

The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.

le safety belt locks if there’s a sudden

stop or a crash.

You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash you would move forward too much, which could increase injury, The shoulder belt shouid fit against your body.

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

Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state and Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.

Seats & Safety Belts

Never hold a blaby in your arms while riding in a

L weigh much - until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can't hold it. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-pound (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-pound (1 10 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

Child Restraints

Be sure to follow the insiructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat. If you are using a rear-facing child restraint, don’t put it in the front seat. Here’s why:

A A chlld in a rear-Taclng cnlm

restraint can be seriously

I.

injured if the right-front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. If your vehicle has a right-front passenger’s air bag, always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat. You may secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right-front seat. However, before securing a forward-facing child restraint, ALWAYS move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. Or, secure the child restraint in the rear seat.

Nherever you install it, be sure to secure he child restraint properly.

A move around in a collision or

An unsecured child restraint can

sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle - even when no child i s in it.

3 5 . = ’

Seats & Safety Belts

Ibp Strap If YOW- child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you nleedl tO have an anchor installed, you can ask your Pmtiac dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you. how to do it.

A The place where the anchor has

to go is quite close to your fuel

tank. If the anchor isn't put in correctly, it can make a hole in the fuel tank - either then, or in a later collision. Gasoline could leak out and be ignited, and people in the vehicle or outside it could be badly burned. Don't put in the anchor yourself unless you know you can do it correctly.

Vehicles first sold in Canada have child restraint anchor bracket hardware in the glove box, along with instructions for installing it. This should be used only with a child restraint, and only to secure a :hild restraint at a rear seating position. An additional anchor bracket for a child restraint at the other rear seating position is available at Pontiac dealerships in Canada.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Rear Seat You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier sectian about the top strap if the child restraint has ane. 1. Put the restraint an the seat. Follow

the instructions for the child restraint. 2. Secure the child in the child restraint

as the instructions say.

5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the

shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint.

3. Pull out the vehicle’s safety belt and run the lap part, thrallgh or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show yau how. Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. See if the shoulder belt wauld go in front of the child’s face or neck. If so, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Budcle the belt. Make sure the release

button faces upward ar outward, so you’ll beable to unbuckle it quickly if yau ever need to.

-its & Safety Belts

1 -

6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

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

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Your vehicle has a right-front passenger’s air bag. NEVER put a rear-facing child restraint in this position. Here’s why:

CAUTION:

~~

A rear-facing child restraint in the front seat could be pushed

into the seatback by the right-front passenger’s air bag if it inflates. A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if this happens. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear

l a .

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. You’ll need a safety locking clip to properly secure a child restraint in this position. You can get a locking clip where child restraints are sold, or from your Pontiac dealer (GM Part No. 94844571). The locking clip must be the same as the one shown here. Until you have this clip, secure a child restraint only in the rear seat. See the earlier section about securing a child restraint in the rear seat.

Once you have the clip, follow these instructions: 1. Move the seat as far back as it will go

before securing a front-facing child restraint.

2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow

the instructions for the child restraint. 3. Secure the child in the child restraint

as the instructions say.

5. Buckle the belt.

Make sure the release button faces upward or outward, so you’ll be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever need to.

6. Then thread both lap and shoulder belt

portions through the locking clip.

A. Lap Belt Portion B. Latch Plate C. Buckle D. Shoulder Belt Portion E. Locking Clip

4. Pull out the vehicle’s safety belt and

run the lap part through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. See if the shoulder belt would go in front of the child’s face or neck. If so, put it behind the child restraint.

39. .

Se,ats & Safety Belts

If a locking clip is not used or is not installed properly, the

child restraint may move or tip over when your vehicle turns or stops quickly. The child or others could be injured. When you secure a child restraint with a lap-shoulder belt, always thread both the lap and shoulder belt portions through a locking clip.

111

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure,

To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and remove the locking clip. Let the safety belt go back all the way.

A When not used with a child

restraint seat, a safety belt with

a child restraint locking clip still attached can cause serious injury in a crash. Always remove the clip when you are not using it with a child restraint.

The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.

1 Larger Children

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly.

Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash.

0 Children who aren’t buckled up can

strike other people who are.

I,

A Never do this.

Here two children are wearing

the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only

I one person at a time. I

41 9 . 9

Seats & Safety Belts

Q. What if a child is wearing a

lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that. the shoulder bel8 is very .clwe to the child’s face or neck? A: Move the child t-oward the center of

the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is an the child’s shoulder, SO that in a crash the child’s upper body weuld have the r,estraint thag belts providme.

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

I. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide

11 under the belt. The belt’s force

would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.

Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt.

w Checking Your

Restraint Systems

Now and then, make sure all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors, anchorages and reminder systems are working properly. Look for any loose parts or damage. If you see anything that might keep a restraint system from doing its job, have it repaired.

Replacing Safety Belts after a Crash

If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will have to have safety belt parts, like the retractor, replaced or anchorage locations repaired - even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision.

Seats & Safety Belts

Q: What’s wrong with this? A: The belt is torn.

I a belt is torn or frayed, get a new

one right away.

The model number on the replacement belt must be listed on the safety belt you want to replace.

F‘

.. A

H e r e you can learn about the many standard and optional Features on your Pontiac. and information on starting. shifting and braking . Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly - and what to do if you have a problem .

Part 2 Features & Controls

Keys .............................................................. 46 DoorLocks ......................................................... 48 Theft .............................................................. 53 ...................................................... 54 PASS-Key11 New Vehicle “Break-In” .............................................. 56 Ignitionswitch ...................................................... 56 Starting Your Engine ................................................. 58 Driving through Deep Standing Water .................................... 62 Engine Block Heater ................................................. 62 .............................................. 63 Automatic Transmission Manual Transmission ................................................. 67 Limited-Slip Rear Axle ............................................... 71 Parking ............................................................ 71 EngineExhaust ..................................................... 75 Windows .......................................................... 76 Horn .............................................................. 77 Tiltwheel .......................................................... 77 The Turn Signal/Headlight Beam Lever .................................. 78 OperationofLights .................................................. 85 InteriorLights ...................................................... 88 FloorMats ......................................................... 88 Mirrors ............................................................ 88 Twin Lift-off Roof Panels ............................................. 90 Storage and Compartments ............................................ 93 SunVisors ......................................................... 95 Ashtray and Lighter .................................................. 95 Instrument Panel and Cluster ........................................... 98 Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators .................................... 99

Features & Controls

CAUTION: Leaving young children in a \ vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.

The ignition keys are for the ignition only.

The door keys are for the doors and all other locks.

When a new Firebird is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner. However, the ignition key may not have a plug.

I.

If the ignition key doesn’t have a plug, there will be a bar-coded key tag instead. Each plug or tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs. If your ignition keys don’t have plugs, go to your Pontiac dealer for the correct key code if you need a new ignition key.

Features & Controls

Door Locks

Unlocked doors can be

2 dangerous. Passengers - especially children - can easily open the doors and f a l l out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won't open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren't locked. Wear safety belts properly, lock your doors, and you will be far better off whenever you drive your vehicle.

There are several ways to lock and unlock I I your vehicle: From the outside: Use your door key.

From the inside: To lock the door, move the lack control on the door back. To unlock the door, move the lock control on the door forward.

I‘

Power Door Locks (Option) Push the power door lock switch to lock or unlock both doors at once. The switch only works when the ignition switch is in Run or Acc, or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.)

Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door.

Remote Lock Control (Option) If your Pontiac has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your hatch from about 22-33 feet (7-10 m) using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Remote Lock Control operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause h d l interference, and

(2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Should interference to this system occur, try this:

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

4 9 .

Features & Controls

Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. Operation The driver’s door will unlock automatically when UNLOCK is pressed. If UNLOCK is pressed twice quickly, all doors will unlock. All doors will lock when DOOR is pressed. The hatch will unlock when the opened trunk symbol is pressed, but only when the ignition switch is not’in Run, and the transmission is in P (Park) if you have an automatic transmission. If you have a manual transmission, the parking brake must be set.

- 50

The system will turn on the interior lights for about 40 seconds, or until the ignition switch is turned to Run, when you unlock the doors or hatch. The interior lights will come on for about two seconds when you lock the doors. Matching lkansmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring the remaining transmitter with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the

replacement transmitter to your vehicle, the remaining transmitter must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. You can match a transmitter to as many different vehicles as you own, provided they are equipped with exactly the same model system. (General Motors offers several different models of these systems on their vehicles.) Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it.

5. If you are programming two

transmitters, press any button on the second transrktter. ~e door locks should lock and unlock.

When matching transmitters, the first transmitter code matched will be stored in both memories unless a second transmitter is matched. This means that the second transmitter will not work unless it is matched in step 5. 6. Remove the fused jumper from the

DLC. The system will not work unless the jumper is removed.

7. Check that all the buttons on both

transmitters work correctly.

If the transmitters don’t work, or if you’d rather not match the transmitters yourself, see your Pontiac dealer. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years.

To match transmitters to your vehicle: 1. Find the Data Link Connector (DLC).

It is in the bottom of the instrument panel near the steering column.

2. Insert one end of a fused jumper into

terminal “G.” Terminal “G” is the top terminal on the far right.

3. Insert the other end of the fused

jumper into terminal “A.” Terminal “A” is the bottom terminal on the far left.

You have grounded the program input line. You should hear the door locks lock and unlock within one to three seconds. 4. Press any button on the fist

transmitter. The door locks should lock and unlock.

You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the batteries. To replace batteries in the Remote Lock Control: 1. If your transmitter has a screw, remove the screw from the back cover. If it doesn’t have a screw, pop the cover off by inserting a dime (or similar object) in the slat between the covers and twisting.

2. Lift off the front cover, bottom half

first.

51 . - =

Features & Controls

Hatch Release Your door key opens the hatch.

3. Remove and replace the batteries. Use two Duracella batteries, type DL2016, or a similar type. Put the new batteries in printed side down. 4. Replace the front cover. Make sure

the cover is on tightly so water won’t get in. Tighten the screw, if your transmitter has one, into the back cover.

Remote Hatch Release Press the switch under the light controls to unlock the hatch from inside your vehicle. If you have an automatic transmission, your shift lever must be in P (Park) or N (Neutral) to use the switch. If you have a manual transmission and the ignition switch is in Run, you must set the parking brake before you can use the switch. The switch only works when the ignition switch is in Run or Ace, or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.)

9 - 5 2

I NOTICE:

If you put things in the hatchback area, be sure they won’t break the glass when you close it. Never slam the hatch down. You could break the glass or damage the defogger grid

A It can be dangerous to drive - L with the hatch open. Carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the hatch open: 0 Make sure all other windows

are shut.

0 Turn the fan on your heating

or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on ;.I . That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index.

0 If you have air vents on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

Theft

Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Pontiac has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However, there are ways you can help. Key in the ignition: If you walk away from your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy target for joy riders or professional thieves - so don’t do it. When you park your Pontiac and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a tone reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this. Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your ignition. If you have an automatic transmission, taking your key out also locks your transmission. And remember to lock the doors. 53-

Features & Controls

Parking at Night: Park in a lighted spot, c1,ose all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking-Lots: If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignitiori key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? 0 Put your valuables in a storage area,

like your glove box. 0 Lack the glove box. l 0 Lock all the doors except the driver’s. 0 Then take the door key with you. . . . w

PASS-Key €Z@

Your vehicle is .equipped with the PASS-Key II@ (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key II* is a passive theft-deterrent system. This means you don’t have to do anything different to ann or disarm the system. It works when you insert or remove the ke from the ignition.

PASS-Key I1 a uses a resistor pellet in the

ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle.

The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the engine does not start and the SECURITY light stays on when you try to start the vehicle, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key. Wait about three minutes and try again, The SECURITY light will remain on during this time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears to be clean and dry, wait about three minutes and try the other ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuses (see “Fuses and Circuit

Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key II@. If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work and the security light will flash. But you don’t have to wait three minutes before trying one of the other ignition keys. See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key II@ to have a new key made.

If you’re ever driving and the SECURITY light comes an and stays on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it off. Your PASS-Key 11’ system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced by your Pantiac dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key II@ system. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key 11’ ignition key, see your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key II@ to have a new key made.

Features & Controls

New Vehicle “‘Break-In”

NOTICE: r

Ignition Switch

With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five positions: Acc (A): Position in which you can operate your electrical power accessories. Press in the ignition switch as you turn the top of it toward you. LOCK (B): The only position in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission. If you have an automatic transmission, the ignition switch can’t be turned to LOCK unless the shift lever is in the P (Park) position.

Off (C): Unlocks the steering wheel, ignition and automatic transmission, but does not send electrical power to any accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be pushed or towed. A warning tone will sound if you open the driver’s door when the ignition is in Off and the key is in the ignition. Run (D): Position to which the switch returns after you start your engine and release the switch. The switch stays in the Run position when the engine is running. But even when the engine is not running, you can use Run to operate your electrical power accessories and to display some instrument panel warning and indicator lights.

Start (E): Starts the engine. When the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will return to Run for normal driving. Note that even if the engine is not running, Acc and Run allow you to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio and ventilation fan.

Key Release Button: If you have a manual transmission, your ignition lock has a key release button. You must press the button before you can take your key out of the ignition lock.

On manual transmission vehicles, turning the key to

LOCK will lock the steering column and result in a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could cause a collision. If you need to turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key only to Off. Don’t press the key release button while the vehicle is moving.

5 7 = = -

Features & Controls

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

NOTICE:

Retained Accessory Power (RAP) If you have power door locks, your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory Power (RAP). With RAP your

power door locks, electric mirrors, power windows, audio system and remote hatch release will continue to work up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to Off and neither door is opened. If a door is opened, the audio system and power windows will shut off. The power door locks, electric mirrors and remote hatch release work until you shut the door. Once you have shut the door, these accessories will continue to work for approximately 35 seconds. After this time you will not be able to use these accessories until the next time you open a door or turn on the ignition.

2. Turn your ignition key to Start. When the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

Manual Transmission: Shift your gear selector to neutral and hold the clutch pedal to the floor while starting the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down - that’s a safety feature. To start your V6 engine: 1. Don’t push the accelerator pedal

before starting your engine. In some other vehicles you might need to do this, but because of your vehicle’s computer systems, you don’t.

,” y . 3. If your engine won’t start (oi starts but :.

then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in Start for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. ‘This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.

. .

, .

Features & Controls

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change way the fuel injection system operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with your deale,. If you don’t, your engine might not

1. Don’t push the accelerator pedal

before starting your engine. In some other vehicles you might need to do this, but because of your vehicle’s computer systems, you don’t.

2. Turn the ignition key to Start. When

the engine starts, let go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your engine gets warm.

3. If it doesn’t start within 10 seconds,

push the accelerator pedal all the way to the floor, while you hold the ignition key in Start. When the engine starts, let go of the key and let up on the accelerator pedal. Wait about 15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining your battery.

Ib

‘I

When starting your engine in very cold weather (below 0°F or -18"C), do this:

1. With your foot off the accelerator

pedal, turn the ignition key to Start and hold it there. When the engine starts, let go of the key. Use the accelerator pedal to maintain engine speed, if you have to, until your engine has run for a while.

2. If your engine still won't start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in Start for about three seconds. If the vehicle starts briefly but then stops again, do the s.ame thing, but this time keep the pedal down for five or six seconds. This dears the extra gasoline from the engine.

61

Features & Controls

Driving through Deep Stunding Water

(CAAIAOA)

In very cold weather, 0°F I- 18°C) 0r colder, the engine block hleater can help. You'lP get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. To use the block heater: 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the

electrical cord.