2008 Pontiac G8 Owners Manual

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System The vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position. The passenger airbag status indicator will be visible in the rearview mirror when you start the vehicle. United States Canada The words ON and OFF, or the symbol for on and off, will be visible during the system check. If you are using remote start to start your vehicle from a distance, if equipped, you may not see the system check. When the system check is complete, either the word ON or the word OFF, or the symbol for on or the symbol for off, will be visible. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-14. The passenger sensing system will turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. The driver airbags are not part of the passenger sensing system. The passenger sensing system works with sensors that are part of the right front passenger seat. The sensors are designed to detect the presence of a properly-seated occupant and determine if the right front passenger frontal airbag should be enabled (may inﬂate) or not. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We recommend that children be secured in a rear seat, including: an infant or a child riding in a rear-facing child restraint; a child riding in a forward-facing child seat; an older child riding in a booster seat; and children, who are large enough, using safety belts. A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { CAUTION A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inﬂates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. (Continued) 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual The passenger sensing system is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag if: (cid:129) The right front passenger seat is unoccupied. (cid:129) The system determines that an infant is present in a rear-facing infant seat. (cid:129) The system determines that a small child is present in a child restraint. (cid:129) The system determines that a small child is present in a booster seat. (cid:129) A right front passenger takes his/her weight off of the seat for a period of time. (cid:129) The right front passenger seat is occupied by a smaller person, such as a child who has outgrown child restraints. (cid:129) Or, if there is a critical problem with the airbag system or the passenger sensing system. Seats and Restraints 1-27 When the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is off. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-14. If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the child restraint following the child restraint manufacturer’s directions and refer to Securing Child Restraints (Rear Seat) on page 1-46 or Securing Child Restraints (Right Front Seat) on page 1-48. If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the child restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens, slightly recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the seat cushion if possible. Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped under the CAUTION (Continued) Even if the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-28 Seats and Restraints vehicle head restraint. If this happens, adjust the head restraint. See Head Restraints on page 1-4. Remove any additional material from the seat such as blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters, or seat massagers before reinstalling or securing the child restraint. If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle, and check with your dealer/retailer. The passenger sensing system is designed to enable (may inﬂate) the right front passenger frontal airbag anytime the system senses that a person of adult size is sitting properly in the right front passenger seat. When the passenger sensing system has allowed the airbag to be enabled, the on indicator will light and stay lit to remind you that the airbag is active. For some children who have outgrown child restraints and for very small adults, the passenger sensing system may or may not turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag, depending upon the person’s seating posture and body build. Everyone in the vehicle who has outgrown child restraints should wear a safety belt properly — whether or not there is an airbag for that person. If a person of adult-size is sitting in the right front passenger seat, but the off indicator is lit, it could be because that person is not sitting properly in the seat. If this happens, turn the vehicle off, remove any additional material from the seat, such as blankets, cushions, seat covers, seat heaters or seat massagers and ask the person to place the seatback in the fully upright position, then sit upright in the seat, centered on the seat cushion, with the person’s legs comfortably extended. Restart the vehicle and have the person remain in this position for two to three minutes. This will allow the system to detect that person and then enable the right front passenger frontal airbag. Safety belts help keep the passenger in position on the seat during vehicle maneuvers and braking, which helps the passenger sensing system maintain the passenger airbag status. See “Safety Belts” and “Child Restraints” in the Index for additional information about the importance of proper restraint use. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual { CAUTION If the airbag readiness light in the instrument panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it means that something may be wrong with the airbag system. If this ever happens, have the vehicle serviced promptly, because an adult-size person sitting in the right front passenger’s seat may not have the protection of the airbag(s). See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-13 for more on this, including important safety information. A thick layer of additional material, such as a blanket or cushion, or aftermarket equipment such as seat covers, seat heaters, and seat massagers can affect how well the passenger sensing system operates. We recommend that you not use seat covers or other aftermarket equipment other than any that GM has approved for your speciﬁc vehicle. See Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-30 for more information about modiﬁcations that can affect how the system operates. Seats and Restraints 1-29 The passenger sensing system may suppress the airbag deployment when liquid soaks into the seat. If this happens, the off indicator in the passenger airbag status indicator and the airbag readiness light on the instrument panel will be lit. The system should resume normal operation after the seat is allowed to dry. If the system operates incorrectly after the seat has dried, have your dealer/retailer check the system. { CAUTION Stowing of articles under the passenger seat or between the passenger seat cushion and seatback may interfere with the proper operation of the passenger sensing system. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-30 Seats and Restraints Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Airbags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the airbag system in several places around your vehicle. Your dealer/retailer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 12-15. { CAUTION For up to 10 seconds after the ignition is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an airbag can still inﬂate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it inﬂates. Avoid yellow connectors. They are probably part of the airbag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualiﬁed to do so. Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle Q: Is there anything I might add to or change about the vehicle that could keep the airbags from working properly? A: Yes. If you add things that change the vehicle’s frame, bumper system, height, front end or side sheet metal, they may keep the airbag system from working properly. Changing or moving any parts of the front seats, safety belts, the airbag sensing and diagnostic module, steering wheel, instrument panel, roof-rail airbag modules, the inside rearview mirror, ceiling headliner or pillar garnish trim, front sensors, or airbag wiring can affect the operation of the airbag system. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual In addition, the vehicle has a passenger sensing system for the right front passenger position, which includes sensors that are part of the passenger’s seat. The passenger sensing system may not operate properly if the original seat trim is replaced with non-GM covers, upholstery or trim, or with GM covers, upholstery or trim designed for a different vehicle. Any object, such as an aftermarket seat heater or a comfort enhancing pad or device, installed under or on top of the seat fabric, could also interfere with the operation of the passenger sensing system. This could either prevent proper deployment of the passenger airbag(s) or prevent the passenger sensing system from properly turning off the passenger airbag(s). See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-26. If you have any questions about this, you should contact Customer Assistance before you modify your vehicle. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 12-1. Q: Because I have a disability, I have to get my vehicle modiﬁed. How can I ﬁnd out whether this will affect my airbag system? A: If you have questions, call Customer Assistance. The phone numbers and addresses for Customer Assistance are in Step Two of the Customer Satisfaction Procedure in this manual. See Customer Satisfaction Procedure on page 12-1. Seats and Restraints 1-31 In addition, your dealer/retailer and the service manual have information about the location of the airbag sensors, sensing and diagnostic module and airbag wiring. If an airbag covering Airbag System Check The airbag system does not need regularly scheduled maintenance or replacement. Make sure the airbag readiness light is working. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-13 for more information. Notice: is damaged, opened, or broken, the airbag may not work properly. Do not open or break the airbag coverings. If there are any opened or broken airbag covers, have the airbag covering and/or airbag module replaced. For the location of the airbag modules, see What Makes an Airbag Inﬂate? on page 1-24. See your dealer/retailer for service. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-32 Seats and Restraints Replacing Airbag System Parts After a Crash { CAUTION A crash can damage the airbag systems in your vehicle. A damaged airbag system may not work properly and may not protect you and your passenger(s) in a crash, resulting in serious injury or even death. To help make sure your airbag systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible. Child Restraints Older Children If an airbag inﬂates, you will need to replace airbag system parts. See your dealer/retailer for service. If the airbag readiness light stays on after the vehicle is started or comes on when you are driving, the airbag system may not work properly. Have the vehicle serviced right away. See Airbag Readiness Light on page 4-13 for more information. Older children who have outgrown booster seats should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-33 thrown out of the vehicle. Older children need to use safety belts properly. { CAUTION Never do this. Never allow two children to wear the same safety belt. The safety belt can not properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A safety belt must be used by only one person at a time. The manufacturer’s instructions that come with the booster seat, state the weight and height limitations for that booster. Use a booster seat with a lap-shoulder belt until the child passes the below ﬁt test: (cid:129) Sit all the way back on the seat. Do the knees bend at the seat edge? If yes, continue. If no, return to the booster seat. (cid:129) Buckle the lap-shoulder belt. Does the shoulder belt rest on the shoulder? If yes, continue. If no, then return to the booster seat. (cid:129) Does the lap belt ﬁt low and snug on the hips, touching the thighs? If yes, continue. If no, return to the booster seat. (cid:129) Can proper safety belt ﬁt be maintained for the length of the trip? If yes, continue. If no, return to the booster seat. Q: What is the proper way to wear safety belts? A: An older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. The shoulder belt should not cross the face or neck. The lap belt should ﬁt snugly below the hips, just touching the top of the thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash. It should never be worn over the abdomen, which could cause severe or even fatal internal injuries in a crash. According to accident statistics, children and infants are safer when properly restrained in a child restraint system or infant restraint system secured in a rear seating position. In a crash, children who are not buckled up can strike other people who are buckled up, or can be 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-34 Seats and Restraints { CAUTION Never do this. Never allow a child to wear the safety belt with the shoulder belt behind their back. A child can be seriously injured by not wearing the lap-shoulder belt properly. In a crash, the child would not be restrained by the shoulder belt. The child could move too far forward increasing the chance of head and neck injury. The child might also slide under the lap belt. The belt force would then be applied right on the abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. Infants and Young Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. { CAUTION Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and the safety belt continues to tighten. Never leave children unattended in a vehicle and never allow children to play with the safety belts. Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have the protection provided by appropriate restraints. Children who are not restrained properly can strike other people, or can be thrown out of the vehicle. In addition, young children should not use the vehicle’s adult safety belts alone; they need to use a child restraint. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-35 CAUTION (Continued) better to secure a forward-facing child restraint in a rear seat. If you must secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. { CAUTION Never do this. Never hold an infant or a child while riding in a vehicle. Due to crash forces, an infant or a child will become so heavy it is not possible to hold it during a crash. For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 lb (5.5 kg) infant will suddenly become a 240 lb (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. An infant should be secured in an appropriate restraint. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual { CAUTION Never do this. Children who are up against, or very close to, any airbag when it inﬂates can be seriously injured or killed. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the right front seat. Secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. It is also (Continued) 1-36 Seats and Restraints Q: What are the different types of add-on child restraints? A: Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height, and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used. For most basic types of child restraints, there are many different models available. When purchasing a child restraint, be sure it is designed to be used in a motor vehicle. If it is, the restraint will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. The restraint manufacturer’s instructions that come with the restraint state the weight and height limitations for a particular child restraint. In addition, there are many kinds of restraints available for children with special needs. { CAUTION To reduce the risk of neck and head injury during a crash, infants need complete support. This is because an infant’s neck is not fully developed and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a crash, an infant in a rear-facing child restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash forces can be distributed across the strongest part of an infant’s body, the back and shoulders. Infants should always be secured in rear-facing child restraints. { CAUTION A young child’s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should. Instead, it may settle up around the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force on a body area that is unprotected by any bony structure. This alone could cause serious or fatal injuries. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries during a crash, young children should always be secured in appropriate child restraints. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Child Restraint Systems Seats and Restraints 1-37 (B) Forward-Facing Child Seat (C) Booster Seats A forward-facing child seat (B) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness. A booster seat (C) is a child restraint designed to improve the ﬁt of the vehicle’s safety belt system. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window. (A) Rear-Facing Infant Seat A rear-facing infant seat (A) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-38 Seats and Restraints Securing an Add-On Child Restraint in the Vehicle { CAUTION A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. Secure the child restraint properly in the vehicle using the vehicle’s safety belt or LATCH system, following the instructions that came with that child restraint and the instructions in this manual. To help reduce the chance of injury, the child restraint must be secured in the vehicle. Child restraint systems must be secured in vehicle seats by lap belts or the lap belt portion of a lap-shoulder belt, or by the LATCH system. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-40 for more information. A child can be endangered in a crash if the child restraint is not properly secured in the vehicle. When securing an add-on child restraint, refer to the instructions that come with the restraint which may be on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both, and to this manual. The child restraint instructions are important, so if they are not available, obtain a replacement copy from the manufacturer. 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 the vehicle — even when no child is in it. Securing the Child Within the Child Restraint { CAUTION A child can be seriously injured or killed in a crash if the child is not properly secured in the child restraint. Secure the child properly following the instructions that came with that child restraint. Where to Put the Restraint According to accident statistics, children and infants are safer when properly restrained in a child restraint system or infant restraint system secured in a rear seating position. We recommend that children and child restraints be secured in a rear seat, including: an infant or a child riding in a rear-facing child restraint; a child riding in a forward-facing child seat; 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-39 When securing a child restraint in a rear seating position, study the instructions that came with the child restraint to make sure it is compatible with this vehicle. Wherever a child restraint is installed, 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 the vehicle — even when no child is in it. CAUTION (Continued) Even if the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-26 for additional information. an older child riding in a booster seat; and children, who are large enough, using safety belts. A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { CAUTION A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inﬂates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. (Continued) 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-40 Seats and Restraints Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) The LATCH system holds a child restraint during driving or in a crash. This system is designed to make installation of a child restraint easier. The LATCH system uses anchors in the vehicle and attachments on the child restraint that are made for use with the LATCH system. Make sure that a LATCH-compatible child restraint is properly installed using the anchors, or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with that restraint, and also the instructions in this manual. When installing a child restraint with a top tether, you must also use either the lower anchors or the safety belts to properly secure the child restraint. A child restraint must never be installed using only the top tether and anchor. In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint that has LATCH attachments. The child restraint manufacturer will provide you with instructions on how to use the child restraint and its attachments. The following explains how to attach a child restraint with these attachments in your vehicle. Not all vehicle seating positions or child restraints have lower anchors and attachments or top tether anchors and attachments. Lower Anchors Lower anchors (A) are metal bars built into the vehicle. There are two lower anchors for each LATCH seating position that will accommodate a child restraint with lower attachments (B). Top Tether Anchor A top tether (A, C) anchors the top of the child restraint to the vehicle. A top tether anchor is built into the vehicle. The top tether attachment (B) on the child restraint connects to the top tether anchor in the vehicle in order to reduce the forward movement and rotation of the child restraint during driving or in a crash. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-41 Lower Anchor and Top Tether Anchor Locations To assist you in locating the lower anchors, each seating position with lower anchors has two labels, near the crease between the seatback and the seat cushion. Rear Seat i (Top Tether Anchor): Seating positions with top tether anchors. j (Lower Anchor): Seating positions with two lower anchors. Your child restraint may have a single tether (A) or a dual tether (C). Either will have a single attachment (B) to secure the top tether to the anchor. Some child restraints with top tethers are designed for use with or without the top tether being attached. Others require the top tether always to be attached. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for your child restraint. If the child restraint does not have a top tether, one can be obtained, in kit form, for many child restraints. Ask the child restraint manufacturer whether or not a kit is available. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-42 Seats and Restraints The top tether anchors are located on the rear seatback ﬁller panel. Be sure to use an anchor located on the same side of the vehicle as the seating position where the child restraint will be placed. Do not secure a child restraint in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be attached, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top tether must be attached. There is no place to attach the top tether in this position. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 1-38 for additional information. Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System { CAUTION If a LATCH-type child restraint is not attached to anchors, the child restraint will not be able to protect the child correctly. In a crash, the child could be seriously injured or killed. Install a LATCH-type child restraint properly using the anchors, or use the vehicle’s safety belts to secure the restraint, following the instructions that came with the child restraint and the instructions in this manual. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual { CAUTION { CAUTION Do not attach more than one child restraint to a single anchor. Attaching more than one child restraint to a single anchor could cause the anchor or attachment to come loose or even break during a crash. A child or others could be injured. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries during a crash, attach only one child restraint per anchor. Children can be seriously injured or strangled if a shoulder belt is wrapped around their neck and the safety belt continues to tighten. Buckle any unused safety belts behind the child restraint so children cannot reach them. Pull the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock, if your vehicle has one, after the child restraint has been installed. Notice: Do not let the LATCH attachments rub against the vehicle’s safety belts. This may damage these parts. If necessary, move buckled safety belts to avoid rubbing the LATCH attachments. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-43 Do not fold the empty rear seat with a safety belt buckled. This could damage the safety belt or the seat. Unbuckle and return the safety belt to its stowed position. 1. Attach and tighten the lower attachments to the lower anchors. If the child restraint does not have lower attachments or the desired seating position does not have lower anchors, secure the child restraint with the top tether and the safety belts. Refer to your child restraint manufacturer instructions and the instructions in this manual. 1.1. Find the lower anchors for the desired seating position. 1.2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 1.3. Attach and tighten the lower attachments on the child restraint to the lower anchors. 1-44 Seats and Restraints 2. If the child restraint manufacturer recommends that the top tether be attached, attach and tighten the top tether to the top tether anchor, if equipped. Refer to the child restraint instructions and the following steps: 2.1. Find the top tether anchor. 2.2. Route, attach, and tighten the top tether according to your child restraint instructions and the following instructions: If the position you are using does not have a headrest or head restraint and you are using a single tether, route the tether over the seatback. If the position you are using does not have a headrest or head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether over the seatback. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-45 Replacing LATCH System Parts After a Crash { CAUTION A crash can damage the LATCH system in the vehicle. A damaged LATCH system may not properly secure the child restraint, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure the LATCH system is working properly after a crash, see your dealer/retailer to have the system inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible. If the vehicle has the LATCH system and it was being used during a crash, new LATCH system parts may be needed. If the position you are using has a ﬁxed headrest or head restraint and you are using a dual tether, route the tether around the headrest or head restraint. If the position you are using has a ﬁxed headrest or head restraint and you are using a single tether, route the tether over the head restraint. 3. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-46 Seats and Restraints New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the LATCH system, was not being used at the time of the crash. Securing Child Restraints (Rear Seat) When securing a child restraint in a rear seating position, study the instructions that came with your child restraint to make sure it is compatible with this vehicle. If your child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-40 for how to install your child restraint using LATCH. If you secure a child restraint using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-40 for top tether anchor locations. Do not secure a child restraint in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. If your child restraint does not have the LATCH system, you will be using the safety belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say. If you need to install more than one child restraint in the rear seat, be sure to read Where to Put the Restraint on page 1-38. 1. Put the child restraint on the seat. 2. 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. 3. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-47 6. If your child restraint has a top tether, follow the child restraint manufacturer’s instructions regarding the use of the top tether. See Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-40 for more information. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. If the top tether is attached to a top tether anchor, disconnect it. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if necessary. 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 5. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt, and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1-48 Seats and Restraints Securing Child Restraints (Right Front Seat) This vehicle has airbags. A rear seat is a safer place to secure a forward-facing child restraint. See Where to Put the Restraint on page 1-38. In addition, the vehicle has a passenger sensing system which is designed to turn off the right front passenger frontal airbag under certain conditions. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-26 and Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-14 for more information, including important safety information. A label on the sun visor says, “Never put a rear-facing child seat in the front.” This is because the risk to the rear-facing child is so great, if the airbag deploys. { CAUTION CAUTION (Continued) A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating airbag. A child in a forward-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger airbag inﬂates and the passenger seat is in a forward position. Even if the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, no system is fail-safe. No one can guarantee that an airbag will not deploy under some unusual circumstance, even though it is turned off. (Continued) Secure rear-facing child restraints in a rear seat, even if the airbag is off. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat. See Passenger Sensing System on page 1-26 for additional information. If the child restraint has the LATCH system, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-40 for how to install the child restraint using LATCH. If you secure a child restraint using a safety belt and it uses a top tether, see Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) on page 1-40 for top tether anchor locations. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Seats and Restraints 1-49 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. Do not secure a child seat in a position without a top tether anchor if a national or local law requires that the top tether be anchored, or if the instructions that come with the child restraint say that the top strap must be anchored. In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top tether, and that the tether be attached. You will be using the lap-shoulder belt to secure the child restraint in this position. Follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. 1. Move the seat as far back as it will go before securing the forward-facing child restraint. When the passenger sensing system has turned off the right front passenger frontal airbag, the off indicator on the passenger airbag status indicator should light and stay lit when the vehicle is started. See Passenger Airbag Status Indicator on page 4-14. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 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 show you how. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if necessary. 1-50 Seats and Restraints 6. To tighten the belt, push down on the child restraint, pull the shoulder portion of the belt to tighten the lap portion of the belt and feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor. If you are using a forward-facing child restraint, you may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt. slightly recline the vehicle’s seatback and adjust the seat cushion if possible. Also make sure the child restraint is not trapped under the vehicle head restraint. If this happens, adjust the head restraint. If the on indicator is still lit, secure the child in the child restraint in a rear seat position in the vehicle and check with your dealer/retailer. To remove the child restraint, unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. If the airbag is off, the off indicator in the passenger airbag status indicator will come on and stay on when the vehicle is started. If a child restraint has been installed and the on indicator is lit, turn the vehicle off. Remove the child restraint from the vehicle and reinstall the child restraint. If, after reinstalling the child restraint and restarting the vehicle, the on indicator is still lit, check to make sure that the vehicle’s seatback is not pressing the child restraint into the seat cushion. If this happens, 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Keys, Doors and Windows 2-1 Windows Windows ...........................2-14 Power Windows ................2-15 Sun Visors ........................2-15 Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror ....2-16 Compass ..........................2-16 Outside Power Mirror(s) ....2-17 Outside Convex Mirror ......2-18 Sunroof Sunroof .............................2-18 Keys, Doors and Windows Keys Keys ...................................2-2 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System ...................2-3 Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation ...2-4 Remote Vehicle Start ..........2-6 Doors and Locks Door Locks .........................2-8 Power Door Locks ..............2-9 Rear Door Security Locks ...2-9 Trunk ................................2-10 Theft-Deterrent Systems Theft-Deterrent Systems ....2-11 Immobilizer .......................2-11 Immobilizer Operation .......2-12 Content Theft-Deterrent .....2-13 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-2 Keys, Doors and Windows Keys { CAUTION Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons, children or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. The windows will function with the keys in the ignition and children could be seriously injured or killed if caught in the path of a closing window. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children. One key, located inside the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter, can be used for the ignition and all locks except the glovebox. Press the button on the RKE transmitter to extend the key. Press the button and the key blade to retract the key. A ﬁxed blade key is also supplied for the glovebox. See your dealer/retailer if a new key is needed. Notice: keys in the vehicle, you may have to damage the vehicle to get in. Be sure you have spare keys. Contact Roadside Assistance or OnStar if you are locked out of the vehicle. See Roadside Assistance Program on page 12-6 or OnStar® System on page 4-36. If you ever lock your 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Keys, Doors and Windows 2-3 If there is a decrease in the RKE operating range, try this: (cid:129) Check the distance. The transmitter may be too far from the vehicle. Stand closer during rainy or snowy weather. (cid:129) Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be blocking the signal. Take a few steps to the left or right, hold the transmitter higher, and try again. (cid:129) Check the transmitter’s battery. (cid:129) See “Battery Replacement” later in this section. If the transmitter is still not working correctly, see your dealer/retailer or a qualiﬁed technician for service. Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-4 Keys, Doors and Windows Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation The Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter functions will work up to 195 feet (60 m) away, however, the operating range may be less while the vehicle is running. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter. See Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 2-3. RKE with Remote Start Shown K (Unlock): Press to unlock the driver door or all doors depending on the personalization setting. To customize remote unlocking, see “Two Stage Unlock” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-32. You can program the vehicle so the turn signal indicators ﬂash when pressing K on the RKE transmitter. For more information see “Flash Remote Unlock” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-32. Pressing K may also disarm the content theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-13. V (Remote Trunk Release): Press and hold to open the trunk. The following functions may be available if your vehicle has the RKE system. Q (Lock): Press to lock all doors. You can program the vehicle so the turn signal indicators ﬂash or the horn sounds when pressing Q on the RKE transmitter. For more information see “Flash Remote Lock” and “Beep Remote Lock” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-32. If any door is open when Q is pressed, the horn will chirp ﬁve times as a reminder. All doors will lock except the open door. If the driver door is open when Q is pressed, all doors will lock except the driver door. Pressing Q may also arm the content theft-deterrent system. See Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-13. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual L (Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm): Press and release one time to locate your vehicle. The exterior lamps will ﬂash and the horn will chirp. Press and hold L for at least two seconds to sound the panic alarm. The horn will sound and the turn signals will ﬂash until L is pressed again or the key is placed in the ignition and turned to ON/RUN. / (Remote Vehicle Start): If the vehicle has this feature, press / to start the engine from outside the vehicle using the RKE transmitter. See Remote Vehicle Start on page 2-6 for additional information. Keys, Doors and Windows 2-5 Personal Identity Keys This system stores electronic settings for two different keys. The settings are stored when a personal identity key is removed from the ignition and recalled when Q on the RKE transmitter is pressed. For information on storing climate control settings, radio settings and trip computer settings, see “Personal Identity Memories” under Radio(s) on page 6-3, “Ignition Keys” under Climate Control System on page 7-1 and “Trip Computer” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-32. Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle Each RKE 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/retailer. Bring any additional transmitters so they can also be re-coded to match the new transmitter. Once your dealer/retailer has coded the new transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Battery Replacement The RKE transmitter has a lithium battery which should last about three years. Have the battery replaced if the Replace Battery in Remote Key message displays in the DIC or if the transmitter will not work at the normal range in any location. See “Replace Battery in Remote Key” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 4-27. The battery is not rechargeable. See your dealer/retailer to replace the battery. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-6 Keys, Doors and Windows Remote Vehicle Start Your vehicle may have this feature which allows you to start the engine from outside the vehicle. / (Remote Vehicle Start): This button will be on the RKE transmitter if you have remote start. To enable and disable remote start, see “Remote Start” under DIC Vehicle Customization on page 4-32. Vehicles with an automatic climate control system will default to a heating or cooling mode depending on the outside temperature during a remote start. When the key is turned to ON/RUN, the climate control system will turn on at the setting the vehicle was set to when the vehicle was last turned off. Laws in some local communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws may require a person using remote start to have the vehicle in view when doing so. Check local regulations for any requirements on remote starting of vehicles. If your vehicle is low on fuel, do not use the remote start feature. The vehicle may run out of fuel. If your vehicle has the remote start feature, the RKE transmitter functions will have an increased range of operation. However, the range may be less while the vehicle is running. There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter, see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System on page 2-3 for additional information. Starting the Engine Using Remote Start To start the engine using the remote start feature: 1. Press Q on the RKE transmitter. 2. Press and hold / for about two seconds. The turn signal lamps will brieﬂy ﬂash to conﬁrm the vehicle has been started. The parking lamps will turn on and remain on as long as the engine is running. The vehicle’s doors will be locked. 3. After entering the vehicle during a remote start, insert and turn the key to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle. After a remote start, the engine will automatically shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension has been done or the vehicle’s key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to ON/RUN. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Keys, Doors and Windows 2-7 After your vehicle’s engine has been started two times using the remote start button, the vehicle’s ignition switch must be turned to ON/RUN and then back to LOCK/OFF using the key before the remote start procedure can be used again. Shutting the Engine Off After a Remote Start To manually shut off the engine after a remote start, do any of the following: (cid:129) Press / until the parking lamps turn off. (cid:129) Turn on the hazard warning (cid:129) ﬂashers. Insert the vehicle’s key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to ON/RUN and then back to LOCK/OFF. Conditions in Which Remote Start Will Not Work The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if any of the following occur: (cid:129) The vehicle’s key is in the ignition. (cid:129) The vehicle’s hood or doors are not closed. (cid:129) The hazard warning ﬂashers are on. (cid:129) There is an emission control system malfunction. (cid:129) The engine coolant temperature is too high. (cid:129) The oil pressure is low. (cid:129) Two remote vehicle starts have already been used. The maximum number of remote starts or remote start attempts between ignition cycles with the key is two. (cid:129) The vehicle is not in PARK (P). Extending Engine Run Time To extend the engine run time by 10 minutes, repeat Steps 1 and 2 while the engine is still running. The engine run time can only be extended if it is the ﬁrst remote start since the vehicle has been driven. Remote start can be extended one time. If the remote start procedure is used again before the ﬁrst 10 minute time frame has ended, the ﬁrst 10 minutes will immediately expire and the second 10 minute time frame will start. For example, if the lock button and then the remote start buttons are pressed again after the vehicle has been running for ﬁve minutes, 10 minutes are added, allowing the engine to run for a total of 15 minutes. A maximum of two remote starts or remote start attempts are allowed between ignition cycles. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-8 Keys, Doors and Windows Doors and Locks Door Locks { CAUTION Unlocked doors can be dangerous. (cid:129) Passengers, especially children, can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked. So, wear safety belts properly and lock the doors whenever you drive. (Continued) CAUTION (Continued) (cid:129) Young children who get into unlocked vehicles may be unable to get out. A child can be overcome by extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Always lock your vehicle whenever you leave it. (cid:129) Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. Locking your doors can help prevent this from happening. Manual Door Locks Unlock the driver door manually from the outside using the key. Turn the key counter-clockwise once to unlock the driver door, and twice to unlock all doors. Lock all doors manually from the outside by turning the key clockwise. Lock and unlock the doors manually from inside the vehicle using the knob on the door. Do not use the manual door lock knob when the door is open. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Keys, Doors and Windows 2-9 The door lock cylinder turns freely when either the wrong key is used, or the correct key is not fully inserted. The free turning door lock feature prevents the lock from being forced open. To reset the lock, turn it to the vertical position with the correct key fully inserted. Remove the key and insert it again. If this does not reset the lock, turn the key half-way around in the cylinder and repeat the reset procedure. Power Door Locks The power door lock switch is located on the center console. K (Unlock): Press to unlock the doors. Q (Lock): Remove the key from the ignition and press to lock the doors. Rear Door Security Locks Your vehicle has rear door security locks to prevent passengers from opening the rear doors from the inside. Open the rear doors to access the security locks on the inside edge of each door. To set the locks, insert a key into the slot and turn it to the horizontal position. The door can only be opened from the outside with the door unlocked. To return the door to normal operation, turn the slot to the vertical position. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-10 Keys, Doors and Windows Trunk { CAUTION It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You cannot see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid: (cid:129) Make sure all other windows are shut. (cid:129) Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed and select the control setting that will force outside air into your vehicle. See Climate Control System. (Continued) Emergency Trunk Release Handle Notice: Do not use the emergency trunk release handle as a tie-down or anchor point when securing items in the trunk as it could damage the handle. The emergency trunk release handle is only intended to aid a person trapped in a latched trunk, enabling them to open the trunk from the inside. CAUTION (Continued) (cid:129) If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way. See Engine Exhaust on page 8-12. Remote Trunk Release To open the trunk from the outside the vehicle, press the V button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter. From inside the vehicle, press the V button located in the glove box. The trunk can only be opened while the vehicle is in PARK (P), and when the doors are unlocked. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Keys, Doors and Windows 2-11 This device complies with RSS-210 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device. Changes or modiﬁcations to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. Theft-Deterrent Systems Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. This vehicle has theft-deterrent features, however, they do not make it impossible to steal. Immobilizer This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. There is an emergency trunk release handle located inside the trunk on the trunk latch. Access the release handle by folding the rear seat center seatback. See Rear Seat Operation on page 1-5. Pull the release handle to open the trunk from the inside. The release can also be pulled from inside the trunk. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-12 Keys, Doors and Windows Immobilizer Operation Your vehicle has a passive theft-deterrent system. The system is automatically armed when the key is removed from the ignition. The system is disarmed when the key is turned to ON/RUN. You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system. The key uses a transponder that matches an immobilizer control unit in your vehicle and automatically disarms the system. Only the correct key will start the vehicle. If the key is ever damaged, you may not be able to start your vehicle. If the vehicle does not start: (cid:129) Make sure the fold away key is fully extended. (cid:129) Avoid attaching several keys with the ignition key. (cid:129) Avoid attaching keys from other vehicles to the ignition key. (cid:129) Do not attempt to start the vehicle with a non-approved key. (cid:129) Do not disassemble the key. When trying to start the vehicle, if the engine does not start, the key may have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off and try again. If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to be undamaged, try another ignition key. If the engine still does not start, your vehicle needs service. See your dealer/retailer to service the theft-deterrent system and have a new key made. The following procedure is for programming additional keys only. If all vehicle keys are lost or no longer work, see your dealer/retailer. A new key must be made prior to programming. A maximum of four keys can be programmed for your vehicle. The key is purchased as two sections: the key blade and immobilizer section (A) and the remote keyless entry and remote start system section (B). Do not join the two key sections until programming is complete. To program a new section (A): 1. Insert the original, already programmed key into the ignition and start the engine. If the engine does not start, see your dealer/retailer. 2. Remove the key from the ignition. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Keys, Doors and Windows 2-13 6. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. 7. Join sections (A) and (B) until they click. Do not join the two key sections until programming is complete. Do not leave the key or device that disarms or deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle. Content Theft-Deterrent Your vehicle has a content theft-deterrent alarm system. Arming the System To arm the system, either: (cid:129) Press Q on the RKE transmitter. (cid:129) Or, lock the vehicle using the key in the driver’s door. The alarm will automatically arm after about 30 seconds. The security light, located on the instrument panel, will ﬂash. Press V on the RKE transmitter to open the trunk without setting off the alarm. The system will rearm when the trunk is closed. Disarming the System To disarm the system, do one of the following: (cid:129) Press K on the RKE transmitter. (cid:129) Turn the ignition to ON/RUN. (cid:129) Allow the alarm to time out after about 30 seconds and reset itself. The alarm will automatically disarm. If the system is armed and any door is unlocked without pressing K on the RKE transmitter the alarm will sound. 3. Insert and turn the new section (A) to ON/RUN within ﬁve seconds of removing the original key. 4. Turn the new section (A) to LOCK/OFF. Section (A) is now programmed. To program a new section (B): 1. Turn the ignition to ON/RUN with the new section (A). The vehicle must be in PARK (P). 2. Select Remote Key from the personalization menu. 3. Select Program. 4. Press Q and W on the new section (B), at the same time, until you hear two beeps. 5. Repeat Step 4 for all other keys, including keys that require programming or ones previously programmed to the vehicle. Any key not reprogrammed will be erased. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 2-14 Keys, Doors and Windows How to Detect a Tamper Condition If K is pressed and the horn sounds, an attempted break-in has occurred while the system was armed. If the alarm has been activated, the Alarm Activated message appears followed by a message showing what location set off the alarm. If there is more than one, all will appear. Each message will appear for about one second and return to the Alarm Activated message. See DIC Warnings and Messages on page 4-27 for additional information. Windows { CAUTION Leaving children, helpless

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2008 Pontiac G8 Owners Manual