1997
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The 1997 Pontiac Grand Am Owner’s Manual
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Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your Pontiac. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system. Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions. Problems on the Road This section tells what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc. Service and Appearance Care Here the manual tells you how to keep your Pontiac running properly and looking good. Maintenance Schedule This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Pontiac for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8- 10. Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find something you want to read.
WUB
PONTIAC
GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, PONTIAC, the PONTIAC Emblem and the name GRAND AM are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Pontiac Division whenever it appears ___ this manual. Please keep this manual in your Pontiac, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.
We support voluntary technician certification.
WE SUPPORT
VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH
National Institute for
A U T O M O T I V E
S E R V I C E
E X C E L L E N C E
For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual: Aux propriktaires canadiens: Vous pouvez vous procurer un exemplaire de ce guide en franqais chez votre concessionaire ou au:
DGN Marketing Services Ltd. 1500 Bonhill Rd. Mississauga, Ontario L5T 1C7
Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 10273369 B First Edition ii
@Copyright General Motors Corporation 1996 All Rights Reserved
How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of what’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You will find a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning.
I A CAUTION:
These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
In the caution area, we tell you what the hazard is. Then we tell you what to do to help avoid or reduce the hazard. Please read these cautions. If you don’t, you or others could be hurt.
You will also find a circle with a slash through it in this book. This safety symbol means “Don’t,’’ “Don’t do this,” or “Don’t let this happen.’’
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Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices:
NOTICE:
These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle.
In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.
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Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle.
These symbols have to do with your lamps:
These symbols are on some of your controls:
These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:
Here are some other symbols you may see:
For example, these symbols are used on an original battery:
These symbols are important for you and your passengers whenever your vehicle is driven:
CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY
PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING
CAUSTIC BATTERY ACID COULD CAUSE BURNS
DOOR LOCK UNLOCK
TURN SIGNALS
FASTEN SEAT BELTS
WINDSHIELD WIPER
WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER
COOLANT TEMP
BA'ITERY CHARGING SYSTEM
BRAKE
COOLANT
I-1 (a)
FUSE -%- t
LIGHTER n HORN )tr SPEAKER b
ENGINE OIL w, ANTI-LOCK (@)
PRESSURE
BRAKES
FUEL
,\I/,
SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BA'ITERY
$0
FOG LAMPS
$@b NOTES
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Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Pontiac and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
1-2 Seats 1-7 1 - 12
1-13 1-13 1-20 1-21 Right 1-21 1-27 Rear
and Seat Controls
Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Driver Position Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
Front Passenger Position
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
Seat Passengers
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1-33 1-35 1-37 1-45 1-48 1-48 1-48
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Center Passenger Position Children Child Restraints Larger Children Safety Belt Extender Checking Your Restraint Systems Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
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Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Seats
You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startle and confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to. Adjust the driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving.
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Move the control lever under the front of the seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the-seat is locked into place.
Manual Lumbar Support (If Equipped)
Power Seat Controls (If Equipped)
Turn the knob on the right front of the driver’s seat cushion clockwise or counterclockwise to adjust support for the lower back.
To adjust the power seat on some models: FRONT CONTROL (A): Raise the front of the seat by holding the switch up. Lower the front of the seat by holding the switch down. CENTER CONTROL (B): Move the seat forward or back by holding the control to the front or back. Move the seat higher by holding the control up. Lower the seat by holding the control down. REAR CONTROL (C): Raise the rear of the seat by holding the switch up. Lower the rear of the seat by holding the switch down.
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Reclining Front Seatbacks
To adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat and move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to an upright position.
But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.
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A CAUTION:
job when
job because it
Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous, Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its won’t be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lap belt can’t do its job either. In a crash the belt could go up over your abdomen, The belt forces would be there, not at your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. For proper protection when the vehicle is in motion, have the seatback upright. Then sit well back in the seat and wear your safety belt properly.
Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. Seatback Latches (2-Door Models)
The front seatback folds forward to let people get into the back seat.
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To fold a front seatback forward, lift the seatback latch. When you return the seatback to its original position, the seatback will lock.
Easy Entry Seat (2-Door Models) The right front seat of your vehicle makes it easy to get in and out of the rear seat.
Tilt the right front seatback completely forward and the whole seat will slide forward. Move the right front seatback to its original position after someone gets into the rear seat area. Then move the seat rearward until it locks. Tilt the seatback completely forward again to get out.
I 6h CAUTION:
isn’t locked, it
If an easy entry right front seat can move. In a sudden stop or crash, the person sitting there could be injured. After you’ve used it, be sure to push rearward on an easy entry seat to be sure it is locked.
If the seatback isn’t locked, it could move forward in a sudden stop or crash. That could cause injury to the person sitting there. Always press rearward on the seatback to be sure it is locked.
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Rear Seats Folding the Rear Seat (If Equipped)
To open, pull forward on the seat tab. To close, push the seatback up to its original position. Push the seatback completely up against the back plate to ensure that the latch will hook.
Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or air bag system.
A CAUTION:
Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly, If you are in a crash and you’re not wearing a safety belt, your injuries can be much worse. You can hit things inside the vehicle or be ejected from it. You can be seriously injured or killed, In the same crash, you might not be if you are buckled up. Always fasten your safety belt, and check that your passengers’ belts are fastened properly too.
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Your vehicle has a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.)
In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up a person wouldn’t survive. But most crashes are in between. In many of them, people who buckle up can survive and sometimes walk away. Without belts they could have been badly hurt or killed. After more than 25 years of safety belts in vehicles, the facts are clear. In most crashes buckling up does matter ... a lot!
It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle. In a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any area of your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.
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Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes.
Put someone on it.
Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels.
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I
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.
The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
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or the instrument panel . . .
or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.
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@’ If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from
home, why should I wear safety belts?
A: You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an accident -- even one that isn’t your fault -- you and your passengers can be hurt. Being a good driver doesn’t protect you from things beyond your control, such as bad drivers. Most accidents occur within 25 miles (40 km) of home. And the greatest number of serious injuries and deaths occur at speeds of less than 40 mph (65 km/h). Safety belts are for everyone.
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers &: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is much greater if you are belted. &: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to A: Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in
wear safety belts?
most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offered for sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you’re in a vehicle that has air bags, you still have to buckle up to get the most protection. That’s true not only in frontal collisions, but especially in side and other collisions.
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How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your Pontiac, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position. Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)
so you can sit up straight.
3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.
4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
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5. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle
end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt.
If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt.. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster (4-Door Models) Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or crash.
To move it down, squeeze the release button and move the adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release button to make sure it has locked into position.
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Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is centered on your shoulder. The belt should be away from your face and neck, but not falling off your shoulder.
What’s wrong with this?
is You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly
as much protection this way.
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A CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured if your belt is In a crash, buckled in the wrong place like this. the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.
e." What's wrong with this?
A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
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What’s wrong with this?
You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen.
A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should
be worn over the shoulder at all times.
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&.’ What’s wrong with this?
A CAUTION:
You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to fix it.
A: The belt is twisted across the body.
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Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts.
To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.
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A pregnant woman should wear a lap-shoulder belt, and the lap portion should be worn as low as possible, below the rounding, throughout the pregnancy.
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother, When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,” earlier in this section. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) This part explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) or air bag system. Your Pontiac has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another air bag for the right front passenger.
Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system:
you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if have air bags. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. Air bags are “supplemental restraints” to the safety belts. All air bags are designed to work with safety belts, but don’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crashes where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rollover, rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.
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There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG.
AIR BAG
The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See “Air Bag Readiness Light” in the Index for more information.
CAUTION:
Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with air bags. The driver should sit as far back as possible while still maintaining control of the vehicle.
‘ A, CAUTION:
An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle. To read how, see the part of this manual called “Children” and the caution label on the right front passenger’s safety belt.
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How the Air Bag System Works
Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side.
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I I A CAUTION:
If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t air put anything between an occupant and an bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.
that person. The path
When should an air bag inflate? An air bag is designed to inflate in a moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crash. The air bag will inflate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.” If your vehicle goes straight into a wall that doesn’t move or deform, the threshold level is about 9 to 16 mph (14 to 26 km/h). The threshold level can vary, however, with specific vehicle design, so that it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not help the occupant. In any particular crash, no one can say whether an air bag should have inflated simply because of the damage to a vehicle or because of what the repair costs were. Inflation is determined by the angle of the impact and how quickly the vehicle slows down in frontal or near-frontal impacts.
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What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger. How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion is not toward those air bags. Air bags should never be regarded as anything more than a supplement to safety belts, and then only in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal collisions.
What will you see after an air bag inflates? After an air bag inflates, it quickly deflates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, will be hot for a short time. The parts of the bag that come into contact with you may be warm, but not too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust coming from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation doesn’t prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor does it stop people from leaving the vehicle.
When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma or other breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to do so. If you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening a window or door.
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In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. 0 Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.
0 Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and
diagnostic module, which records information about the air bag system. The module records infomation about the readiness of the system, when the sensors are activated and driver’s safety belt usage at deployment.
0 Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag
system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service.
NOTICE:
If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace the air bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.
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Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Pontiac Air bags affect how your Pontiac should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your Pontiac dealer and the Grand Am Service Manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag system. To purchase a service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications” in the Index. I A /!\ CAUTION:
For up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is disconnected, an air bag can still inflate during improper service. You can be injured if you are close to an air bag when it inflates. Avoid wires wrapped with yellow tape or yellow connectors. They are probably part of the air bag system. Be sure to follow proper service procedures, and make sure the person performing work for you is qualified to do so.
The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.
Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions
Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly.
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1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.
Don’t let it get twisted.
2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
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.. .,
If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces.
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The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash.
!& CAUTION:
You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
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To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
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Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for smaller adults, the comfort guides may be installed on the shoulder belts. Here's how to install a comfort guide and use the safety belt:
1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of
the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip.
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2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.
3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat.
The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
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To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed. Center Passenger Position
to expose its
4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as
described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.
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When you sit in the center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender’’ at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
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Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
Smaller Children and Babies
I A CAUTION:
Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should. Instead, the belt will likely be over the child’s abdomen. In a crash, the belt would apply force right on the child’s abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal injuries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained in a child or infant restraint.
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at only 25 mph (40 kmlh), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint.
Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much -- until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash
CAUTION: (Continued)
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Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that, Where to Put the Restraint Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather than the front seat. We at General Motors therefore recommend that you put your child restraint in the rear seat. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in the front passenger seat. Here’s why:
A CAUTION:
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would’be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, Before you secure a forward-facing child restraint, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. Or, secure the child restraint in the rear seat.
Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.
1-37
If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Pontiac dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. Canadian law requires that child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. If your child restraint has a top strap, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you. In Canada, this work will be done free of charge. Or, you may install the anchor yourself using the instructions provided in the kit.
Top Strap
1-38
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position
You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions
for the child restraint.
2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the
instructions say.
3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
1-39
4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while
you push down on the child restraint.
6. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
1-40
Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position
You’ll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.
1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch
plate and pulling it along the belt.
2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions
for the child restraint.
3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the
instructions say.
4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
1-41
6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push
down on the child restraint.
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
1-42
You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facing child restraint. (See “Seats” in the Index.)
2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions
for the child restraint.
3. Secure the child in the child restraint as the
instructions say.
4. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder
portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why:
A CAUTION:
A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat.
1-43
Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
1-44
Larger Children
6. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while
you push down on the child restraint.
7. Push and pull the child restraint in different
directions to be sure it is secure.
To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide.
1-45
Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly.
Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are.
1-46
Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.
e.’ What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt,
but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?
A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see “Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides” in the Index. If the child is so small that the shoulder belt is still very close to the child’s face or neck, you might want to place the child in the center seat position, the one that has only a lap belt.
Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries.
Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the child’s thighs. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash.
1-47
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone else use it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit. To wear it, just attach it to the regular safety belt. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Torn or frayed safety belts may not protect you in a crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. If a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away. Also look for any opened or broken air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system does not need regular maintenance.)
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? After a very minor collision, nothing may be neces san 1- But if the belts were stretched, as they would be if worn during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them. Collision damage also may mean you will need to have safety belt or seat parts repaired or replaced. New parts and repairs may be necessary even if the belt wasn’t being used at the time of the collision. If your seat adjuster won’t work after a crash, the special part of the safety belt that goes through the seat to the adjuster may need to be replaced. If an air bag inflates, you’ll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section,
Section 2 Features and Controls
Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Pontiac, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
2-2 2-4 2-7 2- 10 2-12 2-13 2-13 2- 14 2- 16 2-19 2-2 1 2-25 2-28 2-29
2-3 1
Keys Door Locks Keyless Entry System (If Equipped) Trunk Theft Passlock TM New Vehicle “Break-In” Ignition Positions Starting Your Engine Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) Automatic Transaxle Operation Manual Transaxle Operation Parking Brake Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Models Only) Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Models Only)
2-3 1
2-32 2-32 2-33
2-34 2-35 2-35 2-43 2-48 2-50 2-52 2-53 2-53 2-54
2-58
Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transaxle Only) Parking Over Things That Burn Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked (Automatic Transaxle) Windows Tilt Wheel (If Equipped) Turn SignaUMultifunction Lever Exterior Lamps Mirrors Storage Compartments Accessory Power Outlet Garment Hook Sunroof (If Equipped) The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
2-1
Keys A CAUTION:
Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.
. *
2-2
......... ....... ..~,~... ~ : , .............................. ........
........
>..* ..o..*..*.L..L... ..: .:.. ...ij.. :
. . . . . .
One key is used for the
ignition, the doors and all
other locks.
When a new Pontiac is delivered, the dealer removes the
tags from the keys, and gives them to the first owner.
Each tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a
qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the
tags in a safe place. If you lose your keys, you’ll be able
to have new ones made easily using these tags.
If you need a new key, go to your Pontiac dealer for the
correct key code. Remember to carry the pre-cut
emergency key which Pontiac sends after delivery. In an
emergency, call the Pontiac Roadside Assistance
Program at 1 -800-ROADSIE or 1-800-762-3743
(in Canada, call 1-800-268-6800).
I NOTICE:
Your Pontiac has a number of new features that
can help prevent theft, therefore, you can have a
lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever
lock your keys inside. You may even have to
damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you
have extra keys.
2-3
Door Locks
A CAUTION:
'"
- - -
. *_
Unlocked doors can be dangerous.
Passengers -- especially children -- can easily
open the doors and fall out. When a door is
locked, the inside handle won't open it.
Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked
door when you slow down or stop your vehicle.
This may not be so obvious: You increase the
chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a
crash if the doors aren't locked. Wear safety belts
properly, lock your doors, and you will be far
better off whenever you drive your vehicle.
There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle.
From the outside, you can use your key in the door lock.
You can also use the Keyless Entry System if your
vehicle has this option.
2-4
From the inside, you can lock the door by sliding the
locking lever rearward.
To unlock the door, slide the locking lever forward.
Power Door Locks
With power door locks, you
can lock or unlock all the
doors of your vehicle from
the driver or front passenger
door lock switch.
On four-door models, slide the lock lever on each rear
door to lock or unlock that door.
Automatic Door Locks
Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. If you
have an automatic transaxle, all of the doors will lock
when you move your shift lever out of PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N). If you have a manual transaxle, all
of the doors will lock when the vehicle reaches about
8 mph (13 km/h). If someone needs to get out while the
vehicle is running, have that person use the manual or
power lock. When the door is closed again, it will lock
automatically when you move your shift lever out of
PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If you have a manual
transaxle, the doors will lock when the vehicle reaches
about 8 mph (13 km/h). All doors will automatically
unlock when the key is turned to the OFF position.
If you don’t want the doors to automatically unlock
when the key is turned to the OFF position, you can
remove the DR UNLK fuse (1OA) from the vehicle fuse
block. For fuse location, see “Fuses and Circuit
Breakers” in the Index.
2-5
Rear Door Security Lock
Your Pontiac is equipped
with rear door security
locks that help prevent
passengers from opening
the rear doors of your
vehicle from the inside.
To use one of these locks:
1. Use a key to move the lock all the way up.
2. Close the door.
3. Do the same thing to the other rear door lock.
The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from
the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to
open a rear door when the security lock is on:
1. Unlock the door from the inside.
2. Then open the door from the outside.
If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or
older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open
the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and
older children know how these security locks work, and
how to cancel the locks.
1. To cancel the rear door lock, unlock the door from
the inside and open the door from the outside.
2. Use a key to move the lock all the way down.
3. Do the same for the other rear door.
The rear door locks will now work normally.
Leaving Your Vehicle
If you are leaving the vehicle, take your key, open your
door and set the locks from the inside. Then get out and
close the door.
2-6
Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)
If your Pontiac has this option, you can lock and unlock
your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m)
up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry
transmitter supplied with your vehicle.
In addition, the system illuminates the interior lamps for
a set period of time. The Keyless Entry System consists
of a receiver, which is located in the vehicle, and two
hand-held transmitters.
Your Keyless Entry System
operates on a radio
frequency subject to Federal
Communications
Commission (FCC) Rules
and with Industry and
Science 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 harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
and Science
(2) this 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, and
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.
This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to
30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease
in range. This is normal for any keyless entry system.
If the transmitter does not work or if you have to
stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to
work, try this:
Check to determine if battery replacement or
resynchronization is necessary. See the instructions
that follow.
Check the distance. You may be too far from your
vehicle. You may need to stand closer during rainy
or snowy weather.
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.
If you’re still having trouble, see your Pontiac dealer
or a qualified technician for service.
Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle
Each key chain transmitter is coded to prevent another
transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. If a transmitter
is lost or stolen, a replacement can be purchased through
your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining
transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When
the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your
vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be
matched. Once your dealer has coded the new
transmitter, the lost transmitter will not unlock your
vehicle. Each vehicle can have only two transmitters
matched to it.
You can match your transmitter to as many 1997
General Motors vehicles as you own, as long as they
have the same Keyless Entry System. Contact your
dealer for assistance with this.
Operation
The following functions are available with the Keyless
Entry System:
LOCK: All doors will automatically lock when the
LOCK button on the transmitter is pressed. The interior
lamps stay on for two seconds after all of the doors
are closed.
UNLOCK: The driver’s door will unlock automatically
when the UNLOCK button on the transmitter is pressed.
If the UNLOCK button is pressed again within five
seconds, all remaining doors will unlock. The interior
lamps will stay on for 40 seconds or until the ignition is
turned on.
Trunk Release: The trunk will unlock anytime the
vehicle symbol on the transmitter is pressed and the
ignition is OW. If the ignition is on, the trunk will
unlock if the parking brake is set (manual transaxle) or
the gear selector is in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
(automatic transaxle). The interior lamps will come on
for 40 seconds or until the ignition switch is turned to
the ON position.
2-8
Battery Replacement
Under normal use, the battery in your key chain
transmitter should last about two years.
You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t
work at the normal range in any location. If you have to
get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works,
it’s probably time to change the battery.
NOTICE:
When replacing the battery, use care not to touch
any of the circuitry. Static from your body
transferred to these surfaces may damage
the transmitter.
To replace the battery in the Keyless Entry System:
1. Use a small coin or flathead screwdriver to separate
the bottom half from the top half of the transmitter.
2.
3.
4.
Remove the battery and replace it with the new one,
Make sure the positive. (+) side of the battery faces
down. Use one 3 volt, CR2032, or equivalent,
type battery.
Put the two halves back together. Make sure the
cover is on tightly, so water won’t get in.
Check the operation of the transmitter with your
vehicle. If the transmitter does not work, try
synchronizing the transmitter with the receiver.
2-9
Synchronization
Your Keyless Entry System is equipped with a security
system that prevents anyone from recording and playing
back your signal. The transmitter does not send the same
signal twice to the receiver. The receiver will not
respond to a signal that has been sent to it more
than once.
To resynchronize your transmitter and receiver, follow
these directions:
1. Stand close to your vehicle.
2. Press and hold the LOCK and UNLOCK buttons on
the transmitter at the same time.
3. Hold the buttons for five seconds. In this time, the
doors should lock and unlock once. This confirms
the resynchronization. If the doors do not lock and
unlock, see your dealer for service.
Trunk
To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the key and
turn the trunk lock cylinder.
It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk
lid
open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can
come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell
CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death.
If you must drive with the trunk
electrical wiring or other cable connections must
pass through the seal between the body and the
trunk lid:
0 Make sure all windows are shut.
lid open or if
Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed with the setting on
VENT. That will force outside air into your
vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index.
0 If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.
2-10
See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.
Remote Trunk Release
Trunk Security Override
The remote trunk release is
equipped with an override
feature to help prevent
unauthorized entry into the
trunk when leaving the
vehicle unattended, The
switch is located on the
inside of the trunk lid,
mounted to the trunk
lid latch.
The remote trunk release handle is located on the floor
near the left side of the driver’s seat in front of the
fuel door release. Pull up on the remote release handle to
release the trunk lid. Make sure the override feature is
not activated.
To turn the override feature on, slide the switch all the
way to the right. To turn the override feature off, slide
the switch all the way to the left.
When the override is on, the mechanical remote trunk
release will not release the trunk lid, However, the trunk
lid can still be opened with the key.
This lockout feature is only available on vehicles that do
not have the Keyless Entry System.
2-11
Theft
Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
Although your Pontiac has a number of theft-deterrent
features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it
impossible to steal. However, there are ways you
can help.
Key in the Ignition
If you leave your vehicle with the keys inside, it’s an
easy target for joy riders or professional thieves -- so
don’t do it.
When you park your Pontiac and open the driver’s door,
you’ll hear a chime reminding you
to remove your key
from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this.
Your steering wheel will be locked, and so will your
ignition. If you have an automatic transaxle, taking your
key out also locks your transaxle. And remember to lock
the doors.
Parking at Night
Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your
vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight.
Put them in a storage area, or take them with you.
Parking Lots
If you park in a lot where someone will be watching
your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys.
But what if you have to leave your ignition key? What if
you have to leave something valuable in your vehicle?
Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk
or glove box.
Lock the glove box.
Lock all the doors except the driver’s.
e Then take the door key with you.
2-12
Passlock TM
Your vehicle is equipped with the Passlock
theft-deterrent system.
Passlock is a passive theft-deterrent system. The system is
armed once the key is removed from the ignition. Passlock
enables fuel if the ignition lock cylinder is turned with a
valid key. If a correct key is not used, fuel is disabled,
During normal operation, the THEFT SYS light will go
off after the engine is started. If the engine stalls and the
THEFT SYS light flashes, wait until the light stops
flashing before trying to restart the engine. Remember to
release the key from the START position as soon as the
engine starts. If you are driving and the THEFT SYS
light comes on, you will be able to restart the engine if
you turn the engine off. However, your Passlock system
is not working properly and must be serviced by your
dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by Passlock at this
time. You may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses
and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). See your Pontiac
dealer for service.
If the THEFT SYS light comes on while the engine is
running, a problem has been detected and the system
may need service. See your dealer for service.
In an emergency, call the Pontiac Roadside Assistance
Center at 1-800-ROADSIB or 1-800-762-3743.
New Vehicle “Break-InSS
NOTICE:
Your modern Pontiac doesn’t need an elaborate
“break-in,” But it will perform better in the long
run if you follow these guidelines:
Don’t drive at any one speed -- fast or
slow -- for the first 500 miles (805 km).
Don’t make full-throttle starts,
Avoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so, During this time
your new brake linings aren’t yet broken
in. Hard stops with new linings can mean
premature wear and earlier replacement.
Follow this breaking-in guideline every
time you get new brake linings,
Don’t tow a trailer during break-in,
See “Towing a Trailer” in the Index for
more information.
2-13
Ignition Positions
A -
With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn the
switch to five positions.
ACCESSORY (A): This position lets you use things
like the radio and windshield wipers when the engine
is
off. To use ACCESSORY, push in the key and turn it
toward you. Your steering wheel will stay locked.
LOCK (B): Before you put the key into the ignition
switch, the switch is in LOCK. It’s also the only position
in which you can remove the key. This locks your steering
wheel, ignition and transaxle (on automatic models).
OFF (C): This position unlocks the steering wheel and
ignition, but does not send electrical power to any
accessories. Use this position if your vehicle must be
pushed or towed, but never try to push-start your
vehicle. A warning chime will sound if you open the
driver’s door when the ignition is off and the key is in
the ignition.
RUN (D): This position is where the key returns after
you start your engine and release the switch. The switch
stays in the RUN position when the engine is running.
But even when the engine is not running, you can use
RUN to operate your electrical power accessories, and
to display some instrument panel warning lights.
2-14
START (E): This position starts your engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch will
return to RUN for normal driving.
Note that even if the engine is not running, the positions
ACCESSORY and RUN are on positions that allow you
to operate your electrical accessories, such as the radio.
On manual transaxle vehicles, turning the key to
LOCK will lock the steering column and result in
a loss of ability to steer the vehicle. This could
cause a collision, If you need to turn the engine
off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key only
to OFF. Don’t press the key release button while
the vehicle is moving.
NOTICE:
If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t
turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if
so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the
steering wheel left and right while you turn the
key hard. But turn the key only with your hand.
Using a tool to force it could break the key or the
ignition switch. If none of this works, then your
vehicle needs service.
2-15
Key Release Button (Manual Transaxle)
The key cannot be removed from the ignition unless the
key release button is used.
To remove the key, turn the key to the OFF position.
While pressing the key release button, turn the key to
the LOCK position. Pull the key straight out.
2-16
Starting Your Engine
Automatic Transaxle
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a
safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving,
use NEUTRAL (N) only.
I NOTICE:
Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Pontiac is
moving. If you do, you could damage the
transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your
vehicle is stopped.
Manual Transaxle
The gear selector should be in NEUTRAL (N). Hold the
clutch pedal to the floor and start the engine. Your
vehicle won’t start if the clutch pedal is not all the way
down -- that’s a safety feature.
Starting Your 2.4 Liter Engine
1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your
engine gets warm.
NOTICE:
-.
~~
Holding your key in START for longer than
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be
drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can
damage your starter motor.
2. If it doesn’t start right away, and if the weather is
very cold (below -20” F or -29” C), push the
accelerator pedal about one-quarter of the way down
while you turn the key to START. Do this until the
engine starts, As soon as it does, let go of the key.
3. If your engine still won’t start (or starts but then
stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline.
Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way
floor and holding it there as you hold the key in
START for about three seconds. This clears the extra
gasoline from the engine. If the vehicle starts briefly
but then stops again, do the same thing, but this time
keep the pedal about one-quarter of the way down
for five or six seconds.
to the
NOTICE:
Your engine is designed to work with the
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
parts or accessories, you could change the way
the engine operates. Before adding electrical
equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t,
your engine might not perform properly.
If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see
the part of this manual that tells how to do it
without damaging your vehicle. See “Towing
Your Vehicle” in the Index.
2-17
NOTICE:
Your engine is designed to work with the
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
parts or accessories, you could change the way
the engine operates. Before adding electrical
equipment, check with your dealer. If you don’t,
your engine might not perform properly.
If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see
the part of this manual that tells how to do it
without damaging your vehicle, See “Towing
Your Vehicle” in the Index,
Starting Your 3100 Engine
1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your
ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let
go of the key. The idle speed will go down as your
engine gets warm.
NOTICE:
Holding your key in START for longer than
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to be
drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can
damage your starter motor.
2. If your engine won’t start (or starts but then stops), it
could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try
pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the
floor and holding it there as you hold the key in
START for up to 15 seconds. This clears the extra
gasoline from the engine.
2-18
Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)
2.4L Engine
3100 Engine
In very cold weather, 0 O F (- 18 O C) or colder, the engine
coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and
better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually,
the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of
four hours prior to starting your vehicle.
2-19
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and store
the cord as it was before to keep it away from moving
engine parts. If you don’t, it could be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the
kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of
trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact
your Pontiac dealer in the area where you’ll be parking
your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for
that particular area.
To Use the Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord.
3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet.
A CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong
kind of extension cord could overheat and cause
a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the
cord into a properly grounded three-prong
110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a
heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for
at least 15 amps.
2-20
Automatic Transaxle Operation
Your Pontiac may be equipped with a four-speed
automatic transaxle. The shift lever is located on the
console between the seats.
There are seven different
positions for the shift
lever on the four-speed
automatic transaxle.
[Dl
PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best
position to use when you start your engine because your
vehicle can’t move easily.
A CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
You or others could be injured. To be sure your
vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly
level ground, always set your parking brake and
move the shift lever to PARK (P).
See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If
you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer’’ in
the Index.
2-21
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before
starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle
shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular
brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the
ignition key is in the RUN position. If you cannot shift
out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever -- push
the shift lever all the way into PARK (P) -- as you
maintain brake application. Then move the shift lever
into the gear you wish. (Press the shift lever button
before moving the shift lever.) See “Shifting Out of
PARK (P)” later in this section.
REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.
I NOTICE:
Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is
moving forward could damage your transaxle.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle
is stopped.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine
doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re
already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use
NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed.
Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while
your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is
dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the
brake pedal, your vehicle could move very
rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or
objects. Don’t shift out of PARK (P) or
NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.
~~
NOTICE:
To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,
ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If
You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index.
Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out
of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine
racing isn’t covered by your warranty.
2-22
THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal
driving, however, it offers more power and lower fuel
economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D). Here
are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D):
0 When driving on hilly, winding roads.
When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting
between gears.
When going down a steep hill.
AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for
normal driving with the four-speed automatic transaxle.
If you need more power for passing, and you’re:
0 Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your
accelerator pedal about halfway down.
Going about 35 mph (55 km/h) or more, push the
accelerator all the way down.
The transaxle will automatically shift down to the next
gear and provide more power.
I NOTICE:
This NOTICE applies only if you have an
automatic overdrive transaxle. If your vehicle is
so equipped and if it seems to start up rather
slowly, or if it seems not to shift gears as you go
faster, something may be wrong with a transaxle
system sensor. If you drive very far that way,
your vehicle can be damaged. So, if this happens,
have your vehicle serviced right away. Until then,
you can use SECOND (2) when you are driving
less than 35 mph (56 km/h) and AUTOMATIC
OVERDRIVE (@) for higher speeds.
2-23
FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power
(but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can
use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud. If the
selector lever is put in FIRST (l), the transaxle won’t
shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly
enough.
I NOTICE:
If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to
drive. This might happen if you were stuck in
very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid
object. You can damage your transaxle.
Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold
your vehicle there with only the accelerator
pedal. This could overheat and damage the
transaxle. Use your brakes or shift into PARK (P)
to hold your vehicle in position on a hill.
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but
lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills.
It can help control your speed as you go down steep
mountain roads, but then you would also want to use
your brakes off and on.
NOTICE:
Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than
25 miles (41 km), or at speeds over 55 mph
(88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle.
Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@) or
THIRD (3) as much as possible. Don’t shift into
SECOND (2) unless you are going slower than
65 mph (105 km/h) or you can damage
your engine.
With automatic overdrive, SECOND (2) will select
either first or second gear depending on vehicle speed. If
your vehicle is slowing, the transaxle will downshift to
first gear at 20 to 25 miles per hour (32 to 40 km/h) for
engine braking. You may notice some variation in shift
speed in SECOND (2) when accelerating or braking.
2-24
Manual Transaxle Operation
This is your shift pattern.
Here’s how to operate your transaxle:
FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedal and shift into
FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as
you press the accelerator pedal.
You can shift into FIRST (1) when you’re going less
than 20 mph (32 km/h). If you’ve come to a complete
stop and it’s hard to shift into FIRST (l), put the shift
lever in NEUTRAL (N) and let up on the clutch. Press
the clutch pedal back down. Then shift into FIRST (1).
SECOND (2): Press the clutch pedal as you let up on
the accelerator pedal and shift into SECOND (2). Then
slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the