1996 Pontiac Firebird Owners Manual

1996

v The 1996’Pontiac Firebird Owner’s Manual

This section explains how to start and operate your Pontiac.

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

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

Seats and Restraint Systems ............................................................. FeaturesandControls .................................................................. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems ..................................................... . . . . Your Driving and the Road .............................................................. Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. Service and Appearance Care .............................................................. Maintenanceschedule ................................................................... ........................................................ Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Pontiac for assistance and h’ow to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-9. Index ................................................................................

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

Here the manual tells you how to keep your Pontiac running properly and looking good.

Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.

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I -’ I PONTIAC , d

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

We support voluntary technician certification.

WE SUPPORT

VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

Natlonal Institute for

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

E X C E L L E N C E

For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux proprictaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en fraqais chez votre concessionaire ou au:

DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7

Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 10275781 B First Edition ii

@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1995 4ll Rights Reserved

How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.

1 CAUTITN:

These mean there is something that could hart you or other people.

In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.

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

In the 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. You'll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.

Veh Also,

.icle Damage Warnings in this book you will find these notices:

I NOTICE: I These mean there is something that could

damage your vehicle.

iV

I

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

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

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

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

WINDSHIELD WIPER

PARKING pf

LAMPS

WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER

WINDOW DEFOGGER

$0

FOG LAMPS

FASTEN SEAT BELTS

POWER WINDOW

a?

AIR BAG p\

,\I/,

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHlELDlNG

CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BAllERY

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

Here are some other symbols you may see:

Fd

FUSE

ENGINE COOLANT TEMP

CHARGING I-1

BATTERY

SYSTEM

BRAKE

COOLANT

ENGINE OIL PRESSURE

ANTI-LOCK BRAKES

LIGHTER m (0) HORN )cr SPEAKER b e, p3 (e)

FUEL

NOTES

Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems

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

A 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 is not moving.

Move the lever under the passenger’s 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. Be sure the lever returns to its original position after moving the seat.

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4-Way Manual Seat

6-Way Power Seat (Option)

There are two levers at the front of the seat, The left lever adjusts the seat forward and back. The right lever adjusts the angle sf the front of the seat. To adjust the seats forward and rearward, lift the lever under the left front of the seat. 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. To raise or lower the entire seat, lift the lever under the right front of the seat and lean forward or backward. 1-2

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 Spori Seat (Option) If your Pontiac has these seats, the driver’s seat has the four-way manual seat adjuster. See “4-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.

The switch pads on the ‘outer side of the seats “inflate” and “deflate” parts of your seatback. The two buttons that have “dots” inflate and deflate the outer parts of the seatback. To inflate, press the raised button. TO deflate, Press the hdented button. The two buttons without dots inflate and deflate the lumbar (lower part of the seatback) support. inflate, press the raised button. To deflate, press indented button.

To the

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.

If you have fully articulating sport seats, your recliner lever looks like this.

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But don’t have a seatback reclined

if your vehicle is moving.

1 A CAUTION:

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. 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.

Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. On some models, the head restraints tilt forward and rearward also.

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Front Seatback Latches

Folding Rear Seatback

The front seatback folds forward to let people get into the back seat. TQ fold a seatback forward, lift the latch located on the lower backside of the seatback. 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 the seat to work properly.

/I\ CAUTION: I€ the seatback isn’t locked, it codd move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked.

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The rear seatback in your Pontiac folds down 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 Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR), or air bag system.

Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly. If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. 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 yon are buckled up. Always fasten your satety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.

Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.)

In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are. mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!

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

. ....

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

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

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

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or the instrument panel ...

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

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. . . ., . -. ’ .; , --:+..: 7, ‘ :..- . . _. .I . . . . I .., .

Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers &.’ 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 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. &: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

wear safety belts?

most 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.

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.

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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts add children. And there are Merent rules for smaller chldren and babies. If a child wilI be riding in your Pontiac, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position. Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

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

Don’t let it get twisted. On convertible models, the shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then pull the belt across you more slowly.

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

If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

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

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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. On convertible models, the safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

@ What’s wrong with this?

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 should fit against your body.

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

as much protection this way.

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@ What's wrong with this?

A CAUTION: buckled in the wrong phce Iike this. In a crash, You can be seriously injured if your belt is 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.

A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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e.'' What's wrong with this?

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

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too 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.

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You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.

Q: What’s wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted acros’s the body.

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Supplemental Restraint (SRS) System This part explains the Supplemental Restraint (SRS) system or air bag system. Your Pontiac has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger.

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.

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Mere are the most important things to know about the air bag system:

you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if have an air bag. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air bag is only a %upplemental restraint,’’ That is, it works with safety belts but doesn’t replace them, Air ,bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at dl in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver,

should wear a safety belt properly - whether or

not there’s an air bag for that person.

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. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.

I /II CAUTION:

An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children” and the caution label on the right front passenger’s safety belt.

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There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG.

AIR BAG

How the Air Bag System Works

The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.

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

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Don't put anything on, or attach anything to, the steering wheel or instrument panel. Also, don't put'anything (such as pets or objects) between any occupant and the steering wheel or instrument, panel. If something is between an oc-cupant and an air bag, it could affect the performance of the air bag -- or worse, it could cause injury.

A A

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

When should an air bag inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 15 mph (14 to 24 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and the vehicle’s deceleration. Vehicle damage is only one indication of this.

What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules packed inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger. 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 help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as anythmg more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.

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What will you see after an air bag inflates? After the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, will be hot for a short time. The part of the bag that comes into contact with you may be warm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

I A CAUTION:

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

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

The air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new 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 another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

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0

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

NOTICE:

~~

If you damage the cover for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, they may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag covers.

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

I A CAUTION:

II

For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure’ the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.

’he air bag system does not need regular maintenance.

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.

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

A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.

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Rear Seat Passengers It’s very imprtant for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt m r e 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.

Lap-Shoulder Belt The rear seats have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.

1.

l.

Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. On convertible models, the shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly. If this happens, let the belt go back slightly to unlock it. Then.pul1 the belt across you more slowly. Push’the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.

i’

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

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force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely it, the belt to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. On convertible models, the safety belt also locks if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

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

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 should fit against your body.

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

be

S d e r children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, thle belt wiIl likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could criuse serious or fatal injlaries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained m a child or infhnt restraint.

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 124b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.

Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much --. until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued)

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Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructions 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. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:

i 1

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a reapfacing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rearfacing child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Before you secure 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.

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

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Top Strap

The place where the anchor has to go is quite close to your fuel tank. If the anchor isn’t tank -- either then, or in a later collision. installed correctly, it can make a hole in the fuel

Gasoline could leak out and be ignited, and people in the vehicle or outside it could be badly burned. Don’t install the anchor yourself unless you know you can do it correctly.

For cars first sold in Canada, child restraints with a top strap must be anchored according to C a n a h law. Your dealer can obtain the hardware kit and install it for you, or you may install it yourself using the instructions provided in the kit. Use the tether hardware kit available from the dealer. The hardware, and installation instructions were specifically designed for this vehicle.

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If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Pontiac dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. If you have a convertible, don’t use a restraint that has a top strap in your vehicle because the top strap anchor cannot be installed properly.

Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt: See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has, one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

h r the child restraint.

2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

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

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions .will s h w you how.

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Tilt’the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder b’elt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is

positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while

you push down on the child restraint.

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

1-35

You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air

bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.)

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

for the child restraint.

3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions sqy.

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

portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

Securing a Child Restraint in me Right Front Seat Position

Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. 1 :e’s why:

A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right bag inflates, This is because the back of a rear-facing chiId restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rearfacing child restraint in the rear seat.

front passenger’s air

Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.

1-37

Larger Childrc

6. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while

you push down on the child restraint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in different

directions to be sure it is secure.

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

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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; Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.

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 one person at a time. &.’ What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide.

Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a is behind lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force wodd then b’e applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fataligjuries.

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

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

1 dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will ‘be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems NOW and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn 01‘ frayed, get a new one right away. A h look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)

Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if w m during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section.

1-41

NOTES

1-

v Section 2 Features and Controls

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

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.

2-1

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 'door ke.ys and gives them to the first owner.

Each plug has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra door ,keys. Keep the plugs in a safe place. ,If you lose your door keys, you'll be able to have new ones made using these plugs. If you need a new key, contact your Pontiac dealer who can obtain the correct key code. Remember to carry the pre-cut emergency key which Pontiac sends after delivery. In an emergency, call Pontiac Roadside Assistance at 1-800-ROADSDE or 1-800-762-3743.

NOTICE:

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

Door Locks

Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers -- especially children -- can easily open the doors and fall 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.

From the inside, to lock the door, move the lock control on the door backward. To unlock the door, move the lock control on the door forward.

There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle. From’the outside, Use your door key. If your vehicle has the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System and it is armed, unlocking and opening a door this way will set off the alarm. See “Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index.

.’

..

Power Door Locks. (Option)

Push the power door lock switch to lock or unlock both doors at once.

Note: Operating the power door locks may affect the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System (if you have this option). See “Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index. The lock switch works at all times. The unlock switch only works when the ignition switch is in RUN or ACC or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.) East Door Closed Locking (Option) If you have power door locks, you can program a last door closed locking feature for your vehicle. This feature allows for a delayed. locking of the doors. This

2-4

lets you and your passengers exit the vehicle after you’ve pressed the power door lock switch. All of the doors will lock once everyone has gotten out of the vehicle and closed their doors. When the power door lock switch is pressed, a chime will sound three times,.indicating that last door closed locking has been activated. Pressing the LOCK switch again will lo’ck the doors immediately. Pressing the UNLOCK switch will cancel a previously requested last door closed loclung. This feature is shipped from the factory in the off position. To turn this feature on, see “Feature Custorrlization” in the Index. Lockout Prevention (Option) To protect you from locking your keys in the vehicle, this feature stops the power door locks from locking when the keys are in the ignition and a door is open. If the power lock switch is pressed when a door is open, a chime will sound five times as a reminder to take the keys out of the ignition before locking the door. This feature is shipped from the factory in the on position. If you would like to turn this feature off, see “Feature Customization” 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)

3-Button Transmitter

4-Button Transmitter

If your Pontiac has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your hatch up to about 30 feet (9 m) using the key chain transmitter supplied with your car.

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 harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Should interference to this system occur, try this: Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions on battery replacement. Cheek the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range. Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. See your Pontiac dealer or a qualified technician for service.

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

peration

The driver’s door will unlock automatically when UNLOCK is pressed. If UNLOCK is pressed again within five seconds, the passenger door will also unlock. All doors will lock when LOCK is pressed. The hatch will unlock when the button with the trunk symbol is pressed, as long as the ignition is turned to the OFF position. If the ignition is in the RUN position, the trunk symbol button will only work if the transmission is in PARK (P) for an automatic transmission, or if the parking brake is set on a manual transmission. The system will turn on the interior lamps for about 40 seconds (or until the ignition switch is turned t’o the RUN position), when you unlock the doors or hatch. The interior lamps will go off when you lock the doors. Operating the Remote Lock Control transmitter may interact with the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System (if you have this option). See “Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index. Alarm/Panic Mode If your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System, you will have a fourth button on your Remote Lock Control transmitter. This button is the panic button. If you are involved in a panic situation, press this button and your vehicle’s horn will sound and the parking lamps will flash. This will draw needed 2-6

attention to you and your vehicle. To turn this feature off, either push the panic button again or turn the ignition to the RUN position. Note: This feature will not work if your ignition is in the RUN position or if the remote transmitter is 30 feet or more away from your vehicle.

Transmitter Range The range of your Remote Lock Control system should be about 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in the range. This is normal for any Remote Lock Control system. If the transmitter does not work, or you have to stand closer to your vehicle than normal for the transmitter to work:

vehicles or objects may be

You may have to replace the battery in your transmitter. See the instructions8 for battery replacement. You may be too far from your vehicle. Check your distance. You may have to stand closer to your vehicle in rain or snow. Check the location. Other blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the right or left. You may have to synchronize your transmitter to the receiver in your vehicle. See the instructions for synchronization. You may have to match the transmitters to your vehicle. See instructions for matching transmitters. If none of the above apply, see your dealer or qualified technician for service.

Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each Remote Lock Control transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer, When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transmitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have up to four transmitters matched to it.

Synchronization Synchronization may be necessary due to the security method used by Remote Lock Control system. The transmitter does not send the same signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not respond to a signal it has been sent previously. This prevents anyone from recording and playing back the signal fiom the transmitter. To resynchronize the transmitter with the receiver: While standing close to your vehicle, simultaneously press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the transmitter for 8 seconds. The door locks should cycle and parking lamps flash to confirm synchronization. If this does happen, you may need to replace the battery in your transmitter or match the transmitter to your vehicle. Transmitter Verification (Option) This feature provides feedback to the holder of the Remote Lock Control transmitter that a command has been received by the Remote Lock Control receiver. The parking lamps will flash on every lock and unlock command and the horn will sound only if the LOCK button is pushed twice within five seconds. This allows for silent operation of locking and unlocking, unless a confirming horn chrrp is desired. Other optkns may be sekcted for this feature (see “Feature Gustomization” in the Index).

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Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your Remote Lock Control transmitter should last about two years. kou can tell the battery is 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 battery. Use one battery, type CR2032, or a similar type.

Have each transmitter you intend to match ready for the next steps. To match transmitters to your vehicle:

Turn the ignition switch to the RUN position then to the OFF position. This will disarm the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System (if your vehicle has this option). Remove RADIO fuse. This fuse is located in the main fuse block, located on the left side of your instrument panel. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. Turn the ignition switch from the OFF to the RUN position three times quickly (within five seconds.) The vehicle will respond by locking the doors, unlocking the driver’s doors and releasing the hatch. Your transmitter is now ready to match your vehicle. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on the first transmitter for 15 seconds. The vehicle will respond as in Step 3. Repeat Step 4 for the remining transmitters. When you have finished matching all of your transmitters, replace the RADIO fuse. Check that all transmitters work by pressing their buttons.

If the transmitters don’t work, or if you’d rather not match the transmitters yourself, See your Pontiac dealer.

To replace the battery in the Remote Lock Control transmitter: 1. Carefully pry off the cover by inserting a dime (or

similar object) in a slot between the covers and twist.

2. Lift off the back cover. 3. Remove and replace the battery. Use one battery, type CR2032, or a similar type. Put new battery in printed side down.

4. Replace the back cover. Make sure the cover is on

tightly so water won’t get in.

5. Check the trans,mitter operation. If the transmitter

does not work after battery replacement, it may need to be resynchronized or matched to your vehicle. See “Synchronization” in the Index.

It can be dangerous to drive with the hatch open because 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 or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the hatch:

Make sure all windows are shut. Wrn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

,ye*: ; -2

Hatch Release

Remote Hatch Release (Option)

\\

Your door key opens the hatch. If your vehicle has the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System, and the system is armed, opening the hatch this way will trigger the alarm. First &sarin the system or use the Remote Lock Control transmitter to open the hatch.

Press the switch under the lamp controls to unlock the hatch from inside y’our vehicle. If you have an automatic transmission, your shift lever must be in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) 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 ACC, or when RAP is present. (See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.)

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 (if equipped).

On vehicles with the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System: If the system has sounded an alarm, the hatch switch will not work until the system is disarmed. See “Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System” in the Index. 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 leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an easy tmget 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. Parking at Night Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight, Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. Parking Lots If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys. But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle? 0 Put your valuables in a storage area, like your

glove box.

0 Lock the glove box.

Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

0 Then take the door key with you.

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Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System (Option) If your vehicle has ths option, it has a theft-deterrent alarm system. Once armed, the system will sound the horn and flash the parking lamps if the vehicle is broken into. Shock Sensor

Coupe

Convertible The shock sensor is what triggers the alarm when it detects a blow to your vehicle. It is located over the right rear wheelhouse near the spare tire in the hatch area. There are two levels of alarrns via the shock sensor: Two horn blasts and parlung lamp flashes for 2-12

non-threatening blows to the vehicle and a full two minute alarm for harder blows to the vehicle. Its sensitivity can be adjusted if more or less sensitivity is desired. (Note: If sensitivity increased too much, it may give false alarms caused by gusts of wind or other natural events that may shake the vehicle). To adjust, remove the label covering the adjustment knob and adjust as desired. Turn clockwise to increase sensitivity. Turn counterclockwise to decrease sensitivity. The shock sensor is ignored by the alarm system during ignition on, when the hatch is open, when the alarm is &arm& when customized to be ignored and for five seconds after the horn sounds an alarm or c h q . The shock sensor is ignored after triggering three fuu. alarms until the system is rearmed. Arming the System The alarm system can be armed to detect break-ins by locking your vehicle using the Remote Lock Control transmitter or by lochng the doors with the power door lock switch. Passive arming is also available, if you would like the system to arm all by itself after the doors have been closed for a short time. When the system is armed, a red light will flash briefly once every two seconds. (Note: If you return to your vehicle and the red light is flashing two brief flashes every two seconds, the system is armed and the shock sensor had triggered a two minute alarm. If the red light is flashing three times

every two seconds, the system is armed and there was an intrusion that sounded the alarm). Horn chirps and parking lamp flashes can be set to your choice. Remote Lock Control Transmitter Locking If all the doors are closed, locking the vehicle with the transmitter will immediately arm the system. The horn will chirp twice and the parking lamps will flash, confirming that the system is armed. If any door is open when the transmitter LOCK button is pressed, the system goes into an armed wait mode, waiting for the doors to close. Once they are closed, the system will arm, chirp the horns twice and flash the parking lamps. If the hatch is open or ajar at the time the system is arming, the horn will only chirp once. Power Door Lock Switch Locking If any door is open when the power door lock switch is pressed, the system goes into an armed wait mode, waiting for the doors to close. Once they are closed, the system will arm and flash the parking lamps. If all of the doors are closed when the lock switch is pressed, the system assumes you are inside of the vehicle, so it will not arm. Note: Locking the doors by using the manual d m ‘Locks will not arm the system.

Passive Arming If the ignition was just turned off and a door was opened, the system will arm six seconds after all doors are closed, whether or not you lock them. In all other cases, the system will wait 30 seconds after all doors are closed before arming, allowing you time to get into the vehicle and the key in the ignition. The parking lamps will flash when the system arms. Passive arming is not enabled from the factory. Disarming the System There are two ways to disarm the system: 1. Press the UNLOCK button on the Remote Lock

Control transmitter. If the horn chirps two or three times when you unlock the car, the alarm sounded in your absence. l k o chirps means that the shock sensor was set off and three chirps means that a door or hatch was opened.

2. Turn the ignition to the RUN position with the

proper key.

For more information on customizing the features mentioned here, see “Feature Customization” in the Index.

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Turning Off the Alarm If you started the alarm by pressing the panic button on the Remote Lock Control transmitter, you must either push that button again or turn the ignition switch to the , RUN position to stop the alarm. If the alarm is sounding due to the shock sensor or a door or hatch opening, it can be turned off by either turning the ignition switch with a proper keyinserted or

’ by pressing any button on the Remote Lock Control transmitter. If you use your transmitter to silence the alarm, additional things will happen depending upon which button you press.

Pressing the UNLOCK button will lurn the alarm off, will unlock the driver’s door and disarm the system. Pressing the LOCK button will turn the alarm off, keep the ,doors locked and keep the system armed. Pressing the trunk symbol button will turn the dam off and will unlock and disarm the hatch only. Pressing the panic button will turn the alarni off, keep the doors locked and keep the system armed. If the alarm is sounding because an incorrect ignition key was used, press any button on the transmitter to turn the alarm off. The alarm will stop by itself after two minutes.

PASS-Key 8 ‘1

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. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition.

PASS-Key 11 uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key that matches a decoder in your vehicle. When the PASS-Key 11 system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel system. For about three minutes, the starter won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key during this time, the vehicle will not start. This discourages someone from randomly trying different keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a- match.

The ignition key must be clean and dry befote 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 may remain on during this time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears to be clean. and ,dry, wait about three minutes and try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the 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 another ignition key.

See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key I1 to have a new key made. If you’re ever driving and the SECURITY light comes on and stays on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it off. Your PASS-Key II system, however, is not working properly and must be serviced’by your Pontiac dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the PASS-Key I1 system. If you lose or damage a PASS-Key I1 ignition key, see your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key I1 to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program at 1-800-ROADSDJ or 1-800-762-3743.

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Feature Customization (Option) Your Pontiac’s locks and lighting systems can be programmed with several, different features.. The features you can program depend upon the options that came with your vehicle. The following list tells you the features that can be programmed. Listed next to each feature is the option you need to have on your vehicle in order to be able to program that particular feature.

Exit Lighting (available for all) Delayed Illumination (available for all) Last Door Closed Locking (if equipped with power door locks) Lockout Prevention (if. equipped with power door locks) Remote Lock Control Verification (if equipped with Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System) Theft-Deterrent Arming. Method (if equipped with Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System) Theft-Deterrent Arming Verification (if equipped with Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System) Driver’s Door Alarm Delay (if equipped with Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System) Shock Sensor Enable (if equipped with Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System)

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To program features, your vehicle must be in the programming mode. Follow these steps: 1. Put your key in the ignition. 2. Turn the ignition to the RUN position to disarm the

Vehicle .and Content Theft-Deterrent System.

3. Turn the ignition to the OFF position. 4. Remove the RADIO fuse. This fuse is in the main

fuse block, located on the left side of your instrument panel. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index.

5. Put the ignirion in the ACC posmon.

You should hear a chime to veiify that the system is in programming mode. If the chime sounds once, you will be able to program Exit Lighting, Delayed Illumination, Last Door Closed Locking and Lockout Prevention only. If the chime sounds twice and your vehicle is equipped with the Vehicle and Content Theft-Deterrent System, you will also be able to set Remote Lock Control Verification, Arming Method, Arrning Verification, Driver’s Door Delay and Shock Sensor Enable.

Last Door Closed Locking and

Exit Lighting and Delayed Illumination Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 4. This Lockout Prevention means that your interior lamps will go on when the key is removed from the ignition switch and stay on for 25 seconds after closing the doors to help in exiting the vehicle. TO change the factory setting, do the following: 1. Turn the courtesy lamps on by turning the instrument

panel brightness control knob all the way up.

2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number

of chimes tells you which mode your set for. 3. Turn the 4. Turn the courtesy lamp switch from on to off until

courtesy lamp switch to off.

vehicle is

Mode 1: Both Off (Interior lamps will turn on or off at the same instant that a door is opened or closed). Mode 2: Delayed Illumination Only (Interior lamps will stay on for 25 seconds after the doors are closed). Mode 3: Exit Lighting Only (Interior lamps will come on whenever you remove the ignition key). Mode 4: Both On (This combines Mode 2 and 3).

Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 2. This means that your power door locks will not lock when the keys are in the ignition and a door is open. TO change the factory setting, do the following: 1. press the LOCK switch on the door. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number

of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for.

3. Press the LOCK switch on the door until you hear

the number of chimes that correspond to the mode selection you want.

press the power door lock switch). Mode 2: Lockout Prevention Only (If you leave your keys in the ignition and get outl the driver’s door, you won’t be able to lock the doors with the,power door lock switch). Mode 3: Last Door Closed Locking Only (If the power door lock switch is used to lock the, vehicle while any door is open, y0.u will hear three chimes. The doors will not lock until after all doors are closed). Mode 4: Both On (This combines Mode 2 and 3).

you hear the number of chimes that correspond to the Mode 1: Both Off (Doors will 1ocWunlock when you mode selection you want.

Remote Lock Control Verification Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 5. This ,means that when you use the Remote Lock Control transmitter to lockhnlock your vehicle, your parking lamps will flash briefly upon the fist push on LOCK. Your horn will sound briefly, your parking lamps will flash briefly upon the second push on LOCK and your parking lamps will flash briefly upon any push on UNLOCK. To change the factory setting, do the following: 1.

Press the UNLOCK switch an the Remote Lock Control transmitter. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. Press the UNLOCK switch on the Remote Lock Control transmitter until you hear the number of chimes that correspond to the mode selection you want.

2.

3.

Mode 1: All Off (The headlamps will not flash and the horn will not sound to provide you feedback that 'a 1ocWunlock command has been received by the Remote Lock Control transmitter). Mode 2: Horn and LampsLamps (Your horn will sound briefly and your parking lamps will flash when you press LOCK on the Remote Lock Control transmitter. Only your parking lamps will flash when you press UNLOCK). Molde 3: Horn and Lamps (Your horn will sound briefly and yo'ur parking lamps will flash every time you push LOCK and UNLOCK). Mode 4: Lamps (Your parking lamps will flash every time you push LOCK and UNLOCK). Mode 5: Lamps/Horri and LampsLamps (Your lamps will flash upon the fist push on LOCK, your lamps will flash and your horn will sound upon the second push on LOCK and your lamps will flash upon any push on UNLOCK).

Theft-Deterrent Arming Method Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 3. This means that both your Remote Lock Control transmitter and the power door lock switch will actively arm the' system. To change the factory setting, do the following: 1. Press the UNLOCK switch on the door. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of ,chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for.

3. Press the UNLOCK switch on the door until you hear the number of chimes that correspond to the mode selection you want.

Mode 1: Alarm System Off (The System will not arm). Mode 2: Remote Lock Control Transmitter Lock (When you lock your doors using the transmitter, the system will arm itself). Mode 3: Remote Lock Control Transmitterh'ower Door Lock Switch (If you use either the transmitter or the power door lock switch to lock the doors, the system will arm itself'). Mode 4: Passive arming and Remote Lock Control Transmitterh'ower Door Lock Switch Arming (The system will arm itself after all doors are closed, plus arming per mode 3).

Theft-Deterrent Arming Verification Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 3. This means that if you arm the system using the Remote Lock Control transmitter, your parking lamps will flash and your horn will chirp twice to verify that the system is armed. If it only chirps once, the hatch is open or unlatched. If you arm the system using either the power door lock switch or by passive arming, only the parking lamps will flash for verification. ) To change the factory setting, do the following: 1. Press the LOCK switch on the transmitter. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number

of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for.

3. Press the LOCK switch on the transmitter until you

hear the number of chimes that correspond to the mode selection you want.

Mode 1: All Off (No horn chirps or parking lamp flash). Mode 2: Horn and Lamps (Your parking lamps will flash and your horn will chirp twice to verify the system is armed using any arming method).

Mode 3: Horn and LampsLamps (If you use the transmitter to arm the system, your parking lamps will flash and your horn will chirp twice to verify that the system is armed. If you use either the power door lock switch or passive arming, only your lamps will flash for verification). Mode 4: Lamps (When your vehicle arms, only your parking lamps will flash for verification). Driver’s Door Alarm Delay and Shock Sensor Enable Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 4. This means that if you open the driver’s door using your key, the alarm will not soand for eight seconds. Also the sho’ck sensor, able to detect sharp blows to your vehicle is active. To change the factory setting, do the following: 1. 2.

Turn the parking lamps on and off. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. Turn the parking Imps on and off until you’hear the number of chimes that correspond to the mode selection you want.

3.

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Mode 1: Zero Del,ay and Shock Sensor Disabled (The alarm will sound immediately if the driver’s door is opened with your key and the shock sensor will not be available to measure sharp blows to your vehicle). Mode 2: Eight Second Delay and Shock Sensor Disabled (The alarm will sound eight seconds after the driver’s door is opened with your key and the shock sensor will not be available to measure sharp blows to , your vehicle). Mode 3: Zero Delay and Shock Sensor Enabled (The alarm will sound immediately after the driver’s door is opened with your key and the shock sensor will be available to measure sharp blows to your vehicle). Mode 4: Eight Second Delay and Shock Sensor Enabled (The alarm will sound eight seconds’ after the driver’s door is opened with your key and the shock sensor will be available to measure sharp blows to your vehicle). Leaving Programming Mode When programming is done, turn the ignition switch to the O W position and replace the RADIO fuse.

. ,,.

New Vehicle “Break-In”

Ignition Switch

NOTICE:

Ywr modern Pontiac doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines:

Keep your speed at 55 mph (88 km/h) or Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or less for the first 500 miles (804 km). slow -- for the first 500 miles (804 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. 0 Avoid making hard stops for the first

200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in. Hard stops with new linings can mean premature wear and earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in guideline every time you get new brake linings.

0 Don’t tow a trailer during break-in.

See ((Towing a Trailer” in the Index for more information.

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.

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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 PARK (P) 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 plashed or towed. A warning tone will sound if you open the driver's door when the ignition is 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.

NOTICE:

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

Starting Your Engine Engines start differently. The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) shows the code letter or number for your engine. You will find the VIN at the top left of your instnzment panel. (See “Vehicle Identification Number” in the Index.) Follow the proper steps to start the engine.

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

NOTICE:

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

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Manual transmission The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL (N).’Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way down -- that’s a safety feature. Starting Your 3800 Engine 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your

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

NOTICE:

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

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

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

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

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

NOTICE:

Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before .adding electrical equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual that tells how to do it without damaging your vehicle. I See c 6 T o ~ g Your Vehicle” in the Index.

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