1996 Pontiac Firebird Owners Manual

, may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop.

Have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays on longer than normal after you’ve started your engine, turn the ignition off. Or, if the light comes on and stays on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your Pontiac needs service. If the light is on but not flashing and the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

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Traction Control System Warning Light (Option)

This warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.

T’CS OFF

. . -,.L-,-

If it stays on, or comes‘0n’’when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your traction control system and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is OW, the system will not lifnit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. If your brakes begin to overheat, the brake portion of the traction control system will shut down, but the throttle and engine spark control wiil continue to work. The warning light will not come on when this happens.

The traction control system warning light may come on for the following reasons:

If you turn the system off by pressing the button located on the center of the console behind the shift lever (Automatic Transmission) or in front of the shiftboot (Manual Transmission), the warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the system back on, press the button again. The warning light should go off. (See “Traction Control System’’ in the Index for more information.) If the temperature of the throttle control begins to rise, the system will turn off and the warning light will come on until the system cools down. The system,does this to prevent damage from overheating.

If the tmchan CQII~XQ~ system warning light comes on and stays on for an extended period of time when the system is turned on, your vehicle needs service.

Low Traction Light

Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, this light will come on.

LOW TRAC

This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If ‘the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is too hot! It means that your engine coolant has overheated.

’

If you have the traction control system, this light will also come on when the system is limiting wheel spin. Slippery road conditions may exist if the low traction light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly. The light will stay on for a few seconds after the anti-lock system stops adjusting brake pressure or the traction control system stops limiting wheel spin. The low traction light also comes on briefly wlien you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be there to tell you when the anti-lock brake system or traction control system is active.

If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible. In “Problems on the Road”, this section shows what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

Low Coolant Light (V8 Engine)

This warning light should come on while you are starting your engine. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired.

LOW

COOLANT

Your Firebird is equipped with a LOW COOLANT indicator which is designed to detect when the coolant level drops below set limits. If the low coolant level sensor (on the radiator) drops while the engine is running, ‘the LOW COOLANT indicator will light

and remain lit until the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position. Check coolant level and add coolant as needed. The LOW COOLANT light might stay on after filling the radiator., Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position, then restart the engine to verify that the LOW COOLANT light goes out. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index.

~ NOTICE:

Driving with the LOW COOLANT light on could cause your Pontiac to overheat. See “Engine Overheating’’ in the^ Index. Your Pontiac could be damaged m d it wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

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Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light)

NOTICE:

Your Pontiac is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems.

, - . 'G, . . ,

. . . . . , .- ,_ ,

..**

SERVICE ENGINE SOON

This system is called OBD I1 (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. (In Canada, OBD 11 is replaced by Enhanced Diagnostics.) The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light comes on to indicate that there is a problem and service is required. Malfunctions often will be indicated by the system before any problem is apparent, which may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction.

If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.

This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running:If the light doesn't come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: 0 Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service is required.

0 Light On Steady -- An emission control system malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required.

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If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your s&ide:

Reduce vehicle speed. Avoid hard accelerations. Avoid steep uphill grades. If towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible.

If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash, whenit is safe to do so, ’ stop the vehicle. Put your vehicle in PARK (P). Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or *qualified service center for service.

If the Light Is On Steaay You may be able to correct the emission system malfunction by considering the following: Did you just put fuel into your vehicle? If so, reinstall the fuel cap, making sure to fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This will d o w fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. A few driving trips should turn the light off. Did you just drive through a deep puddle of water? If so, your el’ectrical system may be wet. The condition will usually be corrected when the electrical system dries out. A few driving trips should turn the light off. Are you low on fuel? As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine may not bun as efficiently as designed since small amounts of air are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire. The system can detect this. Adding fuel should correct this condition. Make sure to install the fuel cap properly. It will take a few driving trips to turn the light off.

Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see “Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration. (These conditijons may go away once the engine is warmed up.) This will be detected by the system and cause the light to turn on. If you experience this condition, change the fuel brand you use. It will require at least one full tank of the proper fuel to turn the light off. If none of the above steps have made the light turn off, have your dealer or qualified service center check the vehicle. Your dealer has the proper test equipment and diagnostic tools to fix any mechanical or electrical problems that may have developed.

Engine Oil Pressure Gage

This gage tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure.

The engine oil pressure gage shows the engine oil pressure in psi (pounds per square inch) in the United States, or Wa (kilopascals) in Canada, when the engine is running. Oil pressure should be 20 to 80 psi (140 to 550 kPa). On the 3800 engine the oil pressure should be between 20 and 120 psi (140 to 827 kPa). It may vary with engine speed, outside temperature and oil viscosity, but readings above the red area show the normal operating range. Readings in the red area tell you that the engine is low on oil, or that you might have some other oil problem. See “Engine Oil” in the Index.

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Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced.

NOTICE:

Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by your warranty.

Low Oil Light

LOW OIL

Your vehicle is equipped with an oil level monitoring system. When you start your engine, the waning light will come on briefly. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. If the light stays on after starting your engine, your engine oil Level may be too low. You may need to add oil. See “Engine Oil” in the Index.

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NOTICE:

Fuel Gage

The oil level monitoring system only checks the oil level when you are starting your engine. It does not keep monitoring the level once your engine is running. Also, the oil level check only works when the engine has been turned off long enough for the oil to drain back into the oil pan.

Check Gages Light

CHECK GAGES

This warning light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your gages to see if they are in the warning areas.

Your fuel gage shows about how much fuel is in your tank. The gage works only when the ignition switch is in the RUN position.

When the gage pointer first indicates EMPTY (E), you still have a little fuel left (about one to two gallons), but you need to get more right away. Here are four concerns some owners have had about the fuel gage. All these situations are normal and do not indicate that anything is wrong with the fuel gage.

At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the gage reads FULL (F). It takes more (or less) gas to fill up than the gage reads. For example, the gage reads half full, but it took more (or less) than half of the tank’s capacity to fill it. a The gage moves a little when you turn, stop or speed up.

When you turn the engine off, the gage doesn’t go back to EMPTY (E).

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Section

3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

In this section you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your Pontiac. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehcle. Comfort Controls

Your vehicle also has the flow-through ventilation system described later in this section.

Fan Control Knob

FAN: Turn this knob to select the force of air

you want.

Temperature Control Knob Turn the knob to change the temperature of the air flowing from the heating system. Turn it to the right for warmer air and to the left for cooler air. The temperature of the air cannot be less than the temperature of the outside air.

With this system, you can control the heating and ventilation in your Pontiac. If you have the air conditioning option, you can also control cooling.

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Air Control Knob OFF: The system is off. 3 VENE Air flows through the upper air vents. 12 BI-LEVEL: Air is directed through the upper air vents and the heater ducts. 12 HEATER: This setting directs most of the air through the heater ducts and some of the air through the windshield defroster vents. 9 BLEND: Air is directed through the windshield defroster vents and the heater ducts.

DEFROST: This setting directs most of the air

through the windshield defroster vents and some of the air through the heater ducts.

The air conditioning system uses the same controls as the heating system, except that the air control knob has . .. two extra settings, described below. _ . MAX: Provides maximum cooling or quick cool-down on very hot days. This setting recirculates most of the air inside your vehicle. If it is used for long periods of time9 the air may become dry. This setting directs air through the upper air vents. N C : Use for normal cooling on hot days. This setting cools outside air and directs it through the upper air vents.

The air conditioner compressor operates in MAX, A/C, BI-LEVEL, BLEND and DEFROST when the outside temperature is above freezing. When the air conditioner is on, you may sometimes notice slight changes in your vehicle’s engine speed and power. This is normal because the system .is designed to cycle the compressor on and off to keep the desired cooling and help fuel economy. Cooling The air conditioner works best if you keep your windows closed. On very hot days, open the windows just long enough for the hot air to escape. 1. Turn the air control knob to A/C for normal cooling.

For faster cooling, move the knob to MAX.

2. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

3. Move the fan control knob to the desired speed. Heating The heater works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. 1. Turn the air control knob to HEATER. 2. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed. 3. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

During initial start-up only, if your vehicle is equipped with an optional engine coolant heater, you can use it in cold weather (around +20 O F/-8 O C or lower) to improve heater performance on start up. Because an engine coolant heater warms the engine coolant, your vehicle’s ‘heating system can more efficiently provide heat for the passenger area of your vehicle. See “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. Bi-Level Heating You may want to use bi-level heating on cool, but sunny days. This setting directs cool air toward your body and warmer air toward your feet. 1. Turn the air control knob to BI-LEVEL. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed.

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Do not attach anything like a temporary vehicle li 1 cense or a decal across the defogger grid on the rear window.

NOTICE:

Don’t use a razor blade or something else sharp on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage the warming grid, and the repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.

Rear Window Defogger (Option)

The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window.

Press the switch to turn on the defogger. An indicator light will come on to remind you that the defogger is on. The defogger will turn off automatically after about 10 minutes of use. If you turn it on again, the defogger will operate for about five minutes only. You can also turn the defogger off by pressing the switch again.

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Ventilation System

Ventilation For mild outside temperatures when little heating or cooling is needed, you can still direct outside air through your vehicle. 1. Turn the air control knob to VENT. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to a

comfortable setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed.

Your Pontiac's flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when it is moving. Outside air will also enter the vehicle when the blower fan is running.

Ventilation Tips 0 Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or

any other obstruction (such as leaves). The heater and defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

0 When you enter a vehicle in cold weather, turn the

fan control knob to the right for a few moments before driving off. This helps clear the intake ducts of snow and moisture, an'd reduces the chance of fogging the inside of your windows.

0 Keep the air path under the front seats clear of objects. This helps air to circulate throughout your vehicle.

Defogging and Defrosting 1. Turn the air control knob to DEFROST. 2. Turn the temperature control knob to the

desired setting.

3. Turn the fan control knob to the desired speed.

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Audio Systems Your Delco@ audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. If you have power door locks, your vehicle has a feature called Retained Accessory Power (RAP). With RAP you can play your audio system even after the ignition is off. See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index. Setting the Clock for All Systems Except AM-FM Stereo Press and hold HR until the correct hour appears. Press and hold MIN until the correct minute appears. There will be a two-second delay before the clock goes into time-set mode, and the colon on the display will blink while in this mode.

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player

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

Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get A M , €341 or FM2. The display shows your selection. If a cassette tape is playing, press this button to play the radio. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it, to choose radio stations. Push the knob back in when you’re nat using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM,.six FM1 and six FM2). 1. Press AM-FM to select the band. 2. Find the station you want by using TUNE or SEEK. 3. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until SET appears on the display. Whenever you press that numbered button,’the station you set will return.

4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

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

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn this knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you’re not using it. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn this knob to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you’re not using it.

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Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player i,s built to work best with tapes that are 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes lohger than that are so thin they may not work'well in this player. While the tape is playing, use the VOL, FADE, BAL, TREBLE and BASS controls just as you do for the radio. The display will show an arrow to show which side of the tape is playing. When the down indicator is lit, selections listed on the bottom side of the cassette are playing. When the up arrow is lit, selections listed on the top side of the cassette are playing. The tape player automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the end of the tape. If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won't play because of an error.

Q W

E10: The tape is tight and the player can't turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to 9rn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat. If the hubs do not turn easily, your tape may be damaged and should not be used in.the player. Try a new tape to make sure your player is working properly.

0 Ell: The tape is broken. Try a new tape. If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can't be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radm displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to search for thle previous selection on the tape. Your tape , must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during PREV or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to stop seqrching. The sound is muted during PREV or SEEK operation. NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to search for the next Selection on the tape. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT or SEEK to work, The tape direction arrow blinks during NEXT or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK"up arrow to stop searching. The sound is muted during NEXT or SEEK operation.

PROG (3): Press this button to play the other side of the tape. 00 (4): Press this button to reduce background noise. Note that the double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby@ Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. REV (5): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last-selected station while the tape reverses. You may select stations during REV operation by using SEEK or TUNE. FWD (6): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last-selected station while the tape advances. You may select stations during FWD operation by using SEEK or TUNE.

AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. TAPEPLAY; Press this button to change to the tape function when the radio is on. The tape symbol with an arrow will appeq on the display when the tape is active. To return to playing the radio, press the AM-FM buttm. EJECT Press this button to remove the tape. The radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the radio and ignition off if this button is pressed first. CLN: This message may appear on the display. If it does, your cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to your tapes and player. See "Care of Your Cassette Tape Player" in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

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AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Equalizer

Playing the Radio VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on or off. Turn i t clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to 'decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. If you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock wiIl show for a few seconds.

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Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM, FM1 or FM2. The display shows your selection. If a cassette tape is playing, press this button to play the radio. TUNE: 'Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. SEEK: Press the up or down arrow to go to the next higher or lower station. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). 1. Press AM-FM to select the band. 2. Find the station you want by using TUNE or SEEK. 3. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until SET appears on the display. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

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

. .-

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you’re not using it. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you’re not using it. Playing a Cassette Tape Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are 30 to 45 minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are so thin they may not work well in this player. While the tape is playing, use the VOLUME, FADE and BAL c,ontrols just as you do for the radio. The display will show an arrow to show which side of the tape is playing. When the down indicator arrow is lit, selections listed on the bottom side of the cassette are playing. When the up arrow is lit, selections listed on the top side of the cassette are playing. The tape player automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the end of the tape. If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error.

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

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to search for the previous selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV or SEEK to work. The tape direction arrow blinks during PREV or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK down arrow to stop searching. The sound is muted during PREV or SEEK operation. NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to search for the next selection on the tape. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT or SEEK to work. The tape

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direction arrow blinks during NEXT or SEEK operation. Press PREV or the SEEK up arrow to stop searching. The sound is muted during NEXT or SEEK operation. PROG (3): Press this button to play the other side of the tape.

(4): Press this button to reduce background noise.

Note that the double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol ark trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corp'oration. REV (5): Press this button to'reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last-selected station while the tape reverses. You may sel'ect stations during REV operation by using SEEK or TUNE. FWD (6): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will play the last-selected station while the tape advances. You may select stations during FVJD operation by using SEEK or T U N E .

AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player. WE/PLAX Press this button to change to the tape function when the radio is on. The tape symbol with an arrow will appear on the display when the tape is active. To return to playing the radio, press the AM-FM button. EJECT: Press this button to remove the tape. The radio will play. EJECT may be activated with either the ignition or radio off. Cassettes may be loaded with the radio off if this button is pressed first. CLN: This message may appear on the display. If it does, your cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damagt to. your tapes and player. See "Care of Your Cassette Tape Player" in the Index. After you clean the player, press and hold EJECT for five seconds to reset the CLN indicator. The radio will display --- to show the indicator was reset.

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TREBLE: Slide the lever to the right or left to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, slide the lever down to reduce the noise.

Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you're not using it.

Playing a Compact Disc The integral CD player can play 8 cm "single" mini-discs. Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The compact disc symbol will appear on the display. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off, the disc will begin playing. CD will appear on the display. If you want to insert a disc when the ignition is OFF, fist press EJECT.

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

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

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

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

AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer

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

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Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to get AM, FM1 or FM2. The display shows your selection. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. SEEK: Press the up or d,own arrow to go to the next higher or lower station. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six A M , six FM1 and six FM2). 1. Press AM-FM to select the band. 2. Find the station you want by using TUNE or SEEK. 3. Press and hold one of the six numbered buttons until

SET appears on the display. Whenever you press that numbered button, the station you set will return.

4. Repeat the steps for each pushbutton.

Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. FADE: Pressthis knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. Use the middle position to balance these speakers. Push the knob back in when you're not using it. Playing a Compact,Disc The integral CD player can play 8 cm "single" mini-discs. Insert a disc partway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. If the ignition is on, but the radio is off, the disc will begin playing. If you want to insert a disc when the ignition is off, first press EJECT.

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

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

If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio displays an error number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. RECALL: Press this button to see what track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to see how long it has been playing (elapsed time). The track number also appears when the disc is inserted, the volume is changed or when a new track starts playing. PREV (1): Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving back through the disc. ’ NEXT (2): Press this button or the SEEK up arrow to go to the start of the next track if more than eight

seconds have played. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. RDM (3): Press this button t’o hear the tracks in a random order. It will change tracks in a random, rather than sequential order. Press RDM again to turn off random play. The radio will play during this operation. REV (5): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track (song). Release it to play the passage. You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. FWD (6): Press and hold this button to quickly advance within a track (song). You will hear sound at a reduced volume. The display will show elapsed time. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is playing. The disc will stop but remain in the player. CDPLAY Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on. EJECT Press this button to remove the disc or stop the disc and switch to’ the radio. EJECT will work with the radio off.

3-17

. . . ...

+

Theft-Deterrent Feature THEFTLOCK" is designed to discourage theft of your rabio. It works by using a secret code.to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. The THEFTLOCK feature for the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally an'd the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen. When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio will display LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery power is removed. If your battery loses power for any reason, you must unlock the radio with the secret code before-it will operate.

Activating the Theft-Reterrent Feature The instructions which follow explain how to enter your secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system. It is recommended that you read through all nine steps before starting the procedure. NOTE: If you allow more than 15 seconds to elapse between any steps, the radio automatically reverts to time and you must start the procedure over at Step 4.

1. Write down any wee or four-digit number from

000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate from the vehicle.

2. Turn the ignition to the ACC or RUN position. 3. Turn the radio off. 4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until --- shows on the display. Next you will use the secret code number which you have written down.

5. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display. 6. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree

with your code.

7. Press PElR to make the first one or two digits agree

with your code.

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

code matches the secret code you have written down. The display will show REP to let you know that you need to repeat Steps 5 through 7 to confirm your secret code.

9. Press AM-FM and this time the display will show

SEC to let you know that your radio is secure.

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

with your code.

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

with your code.

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

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

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

Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition to the ACC or RUN position. 2. Turn'the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down

until SEC shows on the display.

4. Press MIN q d 000 will appear on the display. 5. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree

with your code.

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

with your code.

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

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

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

3-19

Steering Wheel Controls (Option)

If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel. VOLUME: Press the up arrow to increase the volume and the down arrow to decrease volume. PLAY: Press this button to play a cassette tape or compact disc when the radio is playing. MUTE: Press this button to silence the system. Press it again, or any other radio button, to turn on the sound.

SEEK: Press the up mow to tune to the next radio station and the down arrow to tune to the previous radio station. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the player will advance with the up arrow and rewind with the down mow. PRESET: Press this button to hear the radio stations that are set on your pushbuttons. AM-F": Press this button to select AM, FM1 or €342. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, the tape or disc will stop playing and the radio will play. UBderstanding Radio R: 3eption FM Stereo FM stereo will give you the best sound. But FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles ( 16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals, causing the sound to come and go.

AM The range for most AM stations is greater than for F M , especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise horn things like storms and power lines. Try reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it.

Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noise is almost undetectable until it is too late. Your hearing can adapt to higher volumes of sound. Sound that seems normal can be loud and harmful to your hearing. Take precautions by adjusting the volume control on your radio to a safe sound level before your hearing adapts to it. To help avoid hearing loss or damage:

Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. Increase volume slowly until you hear Comfortably and clearly.

NOTICE: vehicle -- like a tape player, CB radio, mobile Before you add any sound equipment to your telephone or two-way radio -- be sure you can add what you want. If you . c a n , it’s very important to do it properly.. Added sound equipment may interfere with the operation of your vehicle’s engine, Delco radio or other systems, and even damage them. Your vehicle’s systems may interfere with the operation of sound equipment that has been added improperly. So, before adding sound equipment, check with your dealer and be sure to check Federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units.

3-21

You may also choose a non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner which uses a cassette with a fabric belt to clean the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not eject. €t may not clean as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure that the cassette tape is in good condition before you have your tape player serviced. Care of Your Compact Discs , Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a disc is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent .solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge. Be sure never to touch the signal surface when handling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the outer edges or the edge of the hole and the outer edge.

Care of Your CasAte 'I - r1; A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged mechanism. 'Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from *contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren't, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player. Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every 50 hours of use. Your radio may display CLN to indicate that you have used your tape player for 50 hours without resetting the tape clean timer. If you notice a reduction in sound quality, try a known good cassette to see if the tape or the tape player is at fault. If this other cassette has no improvement in sound quality, clean the tape player. Cleaning may be done with a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. It is normal for the cassette to eject while cleaning. Insert the cassette at least three times to ensure thorough cleaning. A scrubbing action cleaning cassette is available through your Pontiac dealer. . E-.. . . ;, -. ' ';. ~, _:

. :

j .-:,,;n

__

' . c . l

'.;-

3-22

Power Antenna Mast Care Your power antenna will look its best and work well if it’s cleaned from time to time. To clean the antenna mast: 1. 2.

Turn, on the ignition and radio to raise the anrenna. Dampen a clean cloth with mineral spirits or , . ,.:-:. equivalent solvent. . ., . 8 . t .‘Y, Wipe the cloth over the mast sections, removing any dirt. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. Make the antenna go up and down by turning the radio or ignition off and on. Repeat if necessary.

r Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication I NOTICE:

3.

4. 5.

and

6.

could damage it.

1 ’ : ;. - .. --.2b$

NOTICE:

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

If the mast portion of your easily replace it. See your dealer for a replacement kit

antenna is damaged, you in the kit.

instructions

follow the

can

3-23

NOTES

3-24

v Section 4 Your Driving and the Road

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

4-1

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

Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a natiQna1 tragedy. It's the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: @- Judgment

Muscular Coordination Vision Attentiveness.

Police records show that almost half 0f all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. In recent years, some 18,000 annual motor vehicle-related deaths have been associated with the use of alcohol, with more than 300,000 people injured. Many adultp -- by some estimates, nearly half the adult population -- choose-never to drink alcahol, so they never drive d e r drinking. For persons under 2 1, it's against the law in every U.S. state to drink alcohol. There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws.

4-2

The obvious way to solve this hghway safety problem is far people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is "too much" if the driver plans to drive? It's a lot less than many might hnk. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem. The Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of someone who is drinking depends upon four things:

The mount of alcohol consumed The drinker's body weight

e The amount of food that is consumed before and

during drinking

e The length of time it has taken the drinker to

consume the alcohol.

According to the American Medical Association, a 180-lb. (82 kg)fperson who drinks three 12-ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4-ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-112 ounces .(45 ml) of a liqudr like whiskey, gin or vodka.

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

4-3

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

!

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

A CAUTION:

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

I-

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

Braking

time.

involves perception time and

First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring up your fo.ot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 314 of a second. But that’s only an average. It might be less with one driver and as long as two or three seconds or more with another. Age, physical condition, alertness, coordination and eyesight all play a part. So do alcohol, drugs and frustration. But even in 3/4 of a second, a vehicle moving at 60 mph (100 km/h) travels 66 feet (20 m). That could be a lot of distance in an emergency, so keeping enough space between your vehicle and others is important. And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it’s pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire tread; and the condition of your brakes.

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

4-5

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

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

If there’s a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on or flash, See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” in the Index.

ABS INOP

4-6

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

Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you.

4-7

Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle sudd’enly slows or stops. Alwayssleave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. Using Anti-Lock Don’t pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel the system working, or you may notice some noise, but this is normal.

When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, this light will come on. See ‘‘L’ow Traction Light” in the Index

LOW TRAC

naction Control, System (Option: LTl VS Engine) Your vehicle may have a traction control system that limits wheel spin. This is especially usefulin slippery road conditions. The system operates only if it senses that one or both of the rear wheels are spinning or beginning to lose traction. When this happens, the system works the rear brakes and reduces engine, power (by closing the throttle and managing engine spark) to limit wheel spin.

This light will come on when YQLU traction control system is limiting wheel spin. See “Low Traction Light” in the Index. You may feel or hear the system working, but this is normal.

LOW TRAC

The traction control system may operate on dry roads under some conditions, and you may notice a reduction in acceleration when this happen,€, This is normal and doesn’t mean there’s a problem with your vehicle. Examples of fhese conditions include a hard acceleration in a turn, or an

abrupt upshift or downshft. Also, when the compact spare tire is on the rear axle, the traction control system will cycle and limit acceleration for about the first 15 seconds of driving after each engine start. If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control. (See “Cruise Control” in the Index.)

TCS OFF

When the system is on, this warning light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem with your traction control system. See “Traction Control System Warning Light” in the Index.

When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. The traction control system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin,

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

Automatic Transmission

Manual Transmission

To turn the system off, press the button located on the center of the console behind the shift lever (Automatic Transmission) or in front of the shift boot (Manual Transmission). The light on the button will go off, and the traction control system warning light will come on and stay on.

4-9

. If the traction control system is limiting wheel spin when you press the button, the light on the button will .go off and the warning light will come on -- but the _ . ._ ,system won't turn off right away. It will wait until gathere's no longer a current need to limit wheel spin.

You can turn the system back an at any time by pressing the button again. The light on the button should come on, and the traction control system w'arning light should go off. If your car is equipped with P245/50zR16 tires, the traction control system will automatically turn off at speeds above 108 mph (1 74 km/h). (The traction, control system waning light will not corn on.) When the vehicle speed drops below 103 mph (1 66 km/h) the system will automatically come on again. - Braking in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking.

Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Steering Tips Driving on Curves It's important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the "driver lost control" accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here's why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to change its path when you turn the front wheels. If there's no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction. If you've ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you'll understand this.

i ., _. ..

The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed. While you’re in a curve, speed is the one factor you can control. Suppose’ you’re steering through a sharp curve. Then you suddenly accelerate. Both control systems -- steering and acceleration -- have to do their work where the tires meet the road. Unless you have traction control and the system is on, adding the sudden acceleration can demand too much of those places. You can lose control. What should you do if.this ever happens? Ease up on the accelerator pedal, steer the vehicle the way you want it to go, and slow down. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed. Of courqe, the posted speeds are based on good weather and road conditions. Under less favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower.

.-.

Try to adjust your speed so you can “drive” through the curve. Maintain a reasonable, steady speed. Wait to accelerate until you are out of the curve, and then accelerate gently into the straightaway. Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem. Your Pontiac can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. (See “Braking in Emergencies” earlier in this section.) It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available,

’ ..**vu-.. U Y . .. .

--

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

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

4-12

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

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

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

0 Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to

pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you -won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close. Time your move so you will be increasing speed as the time comes to move into the other lane. If the way is clear to pass, you will have a “running start” that more than makes up for the distance you would lose by dropping back. And if something happens to cause you to cancel your pass, you need only slow down and drop back again and wait for another opportunity.

0 If other cars are lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your turn. But take care that someone isn’t trying to pass you as you pull out to pass the slow vehicle. Remember to glance over your shoulder and.check the blind spot.

. .

, .

. I

4-13

0

it really is,)

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

Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the vehicle to tires meet the road In any emergency,

don’t

constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger.

to do what the driver has asked. vehicle may straighten

give

Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle. Defensive drivers avoid most skids by taking reasonable care suited to existing conditions, and by not “overdriving” those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your Pontiac’s three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force. And in the acceleration skid, too much throttle causes the driving wheels to spin. A cornering skid is best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal. If you have the traction control system, remember: It helps avoid only the acceleration skid. If you do not have traction control, or if the system is off, then an acceleration skid is also best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal. E your vehicle starts to slide, ease your foot off the accelerator pedal and quickly steer the way you want the

go. If you start steering quickly enough, your

second skid if it occurs.

out. Always be ready for a . -

. .-

. .

Driving at Night

Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited. While driving on a surface with reduced traction, try your best to avoid sudden steering, acceleration or braking (including engine braking by shifting to a lower gear). Any sudden changes could cause the tires to slide. You may not realize the surface is slippery until your vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues -- such as enough water, ice or packed snow on the road to make a “mirrored surface” -- and slow down when you have any doubt. Remember: Any anti-lock brake system (ABS) helps avoid only the braking slud.

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

4-15

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

Don’t drink and drive. Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. Since you can’t see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.

0 Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your

headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. In remote areas, watch for animals. If you’re tired, pull off the road in a safe place and rest.

Night Vision No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What you do in the daytime can also affect your,night vision. For example, if you spend the day in bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you’re

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driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lot of things invisible. You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn’t lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps), slow down a little. Avoid staring directly into the approaching headlamps. Keep your windshield and all the glass on your vehicle clean -- inside and out. Glare at night is made much ‘worse by dirt on the glass. Eventhe inside of the glass can build up a film caused by dust. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would, making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly. Remember that your headlamps light up far less of a roadway when you are in a turn or curve. Keep your eyes moving; that way, it’s easier to pick out dimly lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should your eyes be examined regularly. Some drivers suffer from night blind,ness -- the inability to see in dim light -- and aren’t even aware of it.

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads

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

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

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

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

’

Driving Through Deep Standing Water

-x.

NOTICE:

If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake aqd badly damage your engine. Never drive through water. that is slightly lower than,the underbody of your vehicle. If you can’t avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very slowly.

Some Other Rainy Weather Tips

.‘

Turn on your low-beam headlamps -- not just your parking lamps -- to help make you more visible to others. Besides slowing down, allow some extra following distance. And be especially careful when you pass another vehicle. Allow yourself more clear room ahead, and be prepared to h,ave your view restricted by road spray.

a Have good tires with proper tread depth. (See

“Tires” in the Index.)

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City Driving

Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving:

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

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Freeway Driving

spot.

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

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

-A

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'The exit speed is usually posted.

Here are some things you can check before a trip:

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.pg I*:., :.& .-.(,-.r

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

,' <:.

Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? Wiper Blades: Are they in goo,d shape? Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked all levels? Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean? Tires: They are vitally important to a safe, trouble-free trip. Is the tread good enough for long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the recommended pressure? Weather Forecasts: What's the weather outlook along your route? Should .you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?

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

Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with a comfortably cool interior. Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your rearview mirrors and your instruments frequently.

0 If you get sleepy, pull off the road into a rest, service or parking aiea and take a nap, get some exercise, or both. For safety, treat drowsiness on the highway as an emergency.

Hill and Mountain Roads

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

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If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. e Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid

levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transmission. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.

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

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

Know how to go uphill. You may want to shift down to a lower gear. The lower gears help cool your engine and transmission, and you can climb the hill better.

0 In hilly terrain, you may want to switch to the

PERFORMANCE mode for better performance. Stay in your own lane when driving on two-lane roads’in hills or mountains. Don’t swing wide or cut across the center of the road. Drive at speeds that let you stay in your own lane.