1996 Pontiac Grand PRIX Owners Manual

1 1996

{ The 1996 Pontiac Grand Prix Owner’s Manual

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This section explains how to start and operate your Pontiac.

Here you’ll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

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

SeatsandRestraintSystems ............................................................. Features and Controls ................................................................... This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the “SRS” system. ComfortControlsandAudioSystems ..................................................... YourDrivingandtheRoad .............................................................. ProblemsontheRoad .................................................................. 5-1 Service and Appearance Care. ........................................................... 6-1 Maintenanceschedule .................................................................. 7-1 Customer Assistance Information ........................................................ This section tells you how to contact Pontiac for assistance and how to get service and owner pubiications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-9.

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

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

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

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

Index .

to use.

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4-1

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I PONTlAC

‘ II GM

GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, PONTIAC, the PONTIAC Emblem and the name GRAND PRIX 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 fist sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” for Pontiac Division -whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your Pontiac, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If yon sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.

We support voluntary technician certification.

C E R T I F I E D y k - - w T WE SUPPORT

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VQUNTABY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION THROUGH

~ n a l t n s t t t u t e for

A U T O M O T I V E

S E R V I C E

EXCELLENCE

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

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

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Litho in U.S.A. Part No. 10273393 €3 a First Edition

‘Copyright General Motors Corporation 1995 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 all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it. Safety Warnings and Symbols You wdl 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.

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. 1 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.

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

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

CAUTION POSSIBLE INJURY

PROTECT EYES BY SHIELDING

CAUSTIC

A C I E E Z CAUSE BURNS

AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES

SPARK OR FLAME COULD EXPLODE BATTERY

,\I/,

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

DOOR LOCK UNLOCK

FASTEN SEAT BELTS

WINDOW c

POWER

These symbols have to do with your lights:

These symbols are on some of your controls:

WINDSHIELD WIPER

SIGNALS e 9

TURN

PARKING PC LAMPS

$0

'VENTILATING FAN

FOG LAMPS

Here are some other symbols you may see:

These symbols are used on warning and indicator lights:

CHARGING 1-1

COOLANT TEMP

BATTERY

SYSTEM

FUSE P LIGHTER m (0) HORN )cr SPEAKER b e3

FUEL

BRAKE

COOLANT

ENGINE OIL w, ANTI-LOCK (@)

PRESSURE

BRAKES

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. Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you how to adjust the seats and explains reclining seatbacks and head restraints.

Manual Front Seat

I A CAUl ON:

You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to is adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle 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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Power Seat (Option)

Lift the bar under the front of the seat to unlock it, Slide the seat to where you want it and release the bar, Try to move the seat with your body to be sure the seat is locked in place.

FRONT (A): Raise the front of the seat by holding the switch UP. Hold the switch down to lower the front of the seat. CENTER (B): Move the seat forward or backward by holding the control to the front or back. Raise or lower the seat by holding the control up or down. REAR (C): Raise the rear of the seat by holding the switch up. Hold the switch down to lower the rear of the seat.

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Reclining Front Seatbacks

Lift the lever to release the seatback, then move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback in place. Pull up on the lever without pushing on the seatback, and the seatback will move forward.

2-Door Models

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

4-Door Models But don’t have a seatback reclined

if your vehicle is moving.

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 seat folds forward to let people get into the back seat. Your seatback will move back and forth freely, unless you come to a sudden stop. Then it will lock in place.

If your vehicle is parked going down a fairly steep hill, the seatback may not fold without some help from you. To fold the locked seatback forward, push the seatback toward the rear as you lift this latch. Then the seatback will fold forward. The latch must be down for the seat to work properly.

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.

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

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

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!

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

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Put someone on it.

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

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

or the instrument panel . . .

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Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts -- and the Answers Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an

accident if I’m wearing a safety belt?

A3 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.

Q: If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to

wear safety belts?

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.

At Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in

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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First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position, Driver Position (2-Door Models) This part describes the driver’s restraint system. If you have a four-door model, see “Driver Position (4-Door Models)” later i.n this. section. Lap-Shoulder Belt (2-Door Models) 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.

@ 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 fiom 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

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(65 km/h). .I_ Safety belts are for everyone.

How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people o’f 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 manud called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection.

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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.

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.

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

Q: What's wrong with this?

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

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

as much protection this way.

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Q: what's wrong with this?

. .

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

:. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

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12: What's wrong with this?

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move .too far fdrward, 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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Q: What's wrong with this?

A CAUTION:

You can be seriously inpred by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the If a belt is twisted, belt to spread impact forces.. 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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Driver Position (4-DOOr Models) This part describes the driver’s restraint system. If you have a two-door model, see “Drives Position (2-Door Models)” earlier in this section. Lap-Shoulder Belt (4-Door Models) The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. I. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index)

so you can sit up straight.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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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.

14"

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, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

Q: What’s wrong with this?

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

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

as much protection this way.

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Q: What's wrong with this?

A:' The belt is buckled in the wrong place.

You can be sericus1y injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause s-erious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you.

@ What's wrong with this?

A CAUTIO":

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

be worn over the shoulder at all times.

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

. .

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Q: What's wrong with this?

A: The belt is twisted across the body.

You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you 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.

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:

' , , . . . . . . %

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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.

ION:

.~ A CAUTXON:

You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if’

you aren’t wearing your safety belt -- even if you have an air bag. Wearing your safety belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the vehicle or being ejected from it. The air bag is only a~“supp1ernenta) restraint? that^ is, it works with safety belts but doesn’t replace them. Air bags are designed to work only in moderate to severe crash- where the front of your vehicle hits something. They aren’t designed to inflate at all in rolloveq rear, side or low-speed frontal crashes. Everyone in your vehicle, including the driver, should wear a safety belt properly -- whether or not there’s an air bag for that person.

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

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.

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

SRS AIR BAG

How the Air Bag System Works

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

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

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

cause injury.

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

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

- .because. i f l a t i o n . would not

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What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehcle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reaction produces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules p,acked 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.whee1 or the instrument panel. The air bag supplements the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually. But air bags would not help you in many types of collisions, including rollovers, rear impacts and side impacts, primarily because an occupant’s motion’is not toward the air bag. Air bags should never be regarded as 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 the air bag inflates, it quickly deflates. This occurs so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inflated. Some components of the air bag module in the steering wheel hub for the driver’s air bag, or the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s bag, will be hot for a short time. The part of the bag that comes into contact with you may be warm, but it will never be too hot to touch. There will be some smoke and dust corning from vents in the deflated air bags. Air bag inflation will not prevent the driver from seeing or from being able to steer the vehicle, nor will it stop people from leaving the vehicle.

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

In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger’s air bag. 0 The air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace other parts.

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

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 Prix 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.

NOTICE:

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

For up to 10 seconds after the ignition key is turned off and the battery is discomiected, 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.

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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.

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

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fetus is to protect the The best way to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t b’e hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to makrng safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position (2-Door Models) This part describes the right front passenger’s restraint system. If you hav’e a four-door model, see “Right Front Passenger Position (4-DOOr Models)” later in this section. Was your two-door Pontiac first sold, when new, in Canada? (If it was, a sticker on the driver’s door will say “conforms to all applicable Canada motor vehicle . . . ” etc.) If so, then this “Right Front Passenger Position (2-Door Models)” part doesn’t apply to your vehicle. In two-door models first sold in Canada, the right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position (2-Door Models)” earlier in this section.

Automatic Lap-Shoulder Belt (2-Door Models)

This safety belt is called “automatic” because you don’t have to buckle up when you get into your vehicle.

And you don’t have to unbuckle when you get out. Just get into your vehicle. Then close and lock the door. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) so you can sit up straight.

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The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. It’s possible that an automatic belt could keep you from fully opening a door. That can happen if the door was slammed shut very hard. Just close the door all_the way, then slowly open it. If that doesn’t fix it, then your Pontiac needs service. We hope you’ll always keep your automatic belt buckled. Hqwever, you may need to unbuckle it in an emergency. And you would need to unbuckle it to let someone get into the center front seat position, if your vehicle has one.

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.... :: The lap belt ,should be worn as low on the hips as possible. 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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To unbuckle the automatic belt, just push the button on the buckle. To 1. 2.

reattach the automatic belt: Close and lock the door. 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. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

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Right Front Passenger Position (4-Door Models) If you have a two-door model, see “Right .Front Passenger Position (2-Door Models)” e,arlier in , this section. Lap-Shoulder Belt @-Door- Models) The right frzant passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s. safety belt. See ‘‘D~vver Position (4-D,oor Models),” earlier in this secti’on. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again.

Center Passenger Position

Lap Belt: If your vehicle has a bench seat, someone can sit in the center position.

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When you sit in a 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.

To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until 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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Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions

Rear' Seat Passengers. It's very important for rear seat passengers _to buckle up! Accident statistics show that mbelted people in the re& seat &e hurt more often in crashes than those who are wezing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren't s.dety belted cart be thrown

in the vehicle who are weaiing sa€ety belts.

Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts, &e's how to wear one properly.

When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again. 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.

1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you.

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

2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.

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

1-37

The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash, or if you pull the belt very quickly out of the retractor.

~~

~~

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.

is

The lap part of the belt should be worn low adsnug 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. Th.h 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.

1-38

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

Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults (4-Door Models) Four-door models may have rear shoulder belt comfort guides. This feature 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:

1-39

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.

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.

4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as

described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions (4-Door Models)” earlier in this section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.

1-41

To remove and store the comfort guides, just perform these steps in reverse order. Squeeze the belt edges together m that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its 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.

7hA'E &$udren

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I ? 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 someage must be restrained while in a vehicle.

Smaller Children and Babies ,

Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions far 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 i 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 m d d apply force right on the child's abdomen, which could cause serious or fatal *juries. So, be sure that any child small enough for one is always properly restrained m a child or infant restraint.^

CAUTION: (Continued)

at only 25 mph (40 km/h), 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.

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

CAUTION: (Continued)

1-43

Child Restraints b e sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets FederaI 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 ofpersonal injury. The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that. L here to :ut the Restrad Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear rather thanhe 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:

/!\ CAUTION:

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

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It's always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back.

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.

Top Strap

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.

1-45

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

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, a d fun the lap and shoulder

portions of the vehicle's safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child's face or qeck, put it behind the child restraint.

. - . .

. .-

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

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

5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of

the retractor to set the lock.

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r

Securing a Ch. Rear Seat Position

testraint in the Cen

You’ll be using the lap belt.

I A CAUTION:

6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back

into the retractor 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.

A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back.

See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one.

I

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.

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.

6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push

down on the child restmint.

7. Push and pull the child restraint in Merent

directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehcle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly.

1-49

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. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (4-Door Models)

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

I A CAUTION:

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A child in a rearfacing child restraint can be seriously injured if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates. This is because the back of a rearfacing child restraint would be very close to the inflating air bag. Always secure a rearfacing child restraint in the rear seat.

If you have a two-door model, see “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (2-Door Models)” later in this section.

1-50

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2.

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.) Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint as the instructions say. 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. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.

3.

4.

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.

1-51

6. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of

the retractor to set the lock.

7. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.

8. 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.

Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (2-Door Models)

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I ., .?. - , ,. .~ . . .#. If you have a four-door model, see “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (4-DOOr Models)” earlier in this section. Was your two-door Pontiac first sold, when new, in Canada? (If it was, a sticker on the driver’s door will say “conforms to all applicable Canada motor vehicle . . . ” etc.) If so, then this “Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position (2-Door Models)” part doesn’t apply to your vehicle. To learn how to secure a child restraint in the right front seat, read the Canadian Owner’s Manual Safety Belt Supplement. It comes with every new vehicle first sold incanada.

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

A C TION:

A child in a rearfacing 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 child restraint in the rear seat.

rearfacing

1-53

A CAUTION:

Don’t use the special infadchild seat attaching hardware in another vehicle. If you do, it may not work well and the child may not be protected properly in a crash. The special hardware is for your vehicle only. Also, don’t use the special belt for anything but securing a child restraint in the right front seat. If an adult or older child uses it, the belt won’t provide protection and may even increase injury in a crash.

Once the special hardware is installed, please follow the instructions with it and these steps:

To use a child restraint here, you will need a special infantkbild seat attaching belt and the hardware that goes with it. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Your dealer can order the belt and attaching hardware and install the hardware for you. It’s free. The special belt is GM Part No. 12340286. Your dealer can find the past number for the correct attaching hardware in the accessory section of the GM Parts Catalog.

1-54

c

1. Unbuckle the automatic lap-shoulder belt by pushing

the button on the buckle. It will stay on the door, ready to be rebuckled for use by adults or older children. 2. 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.)

3. Snap one hook of the infantkhild. seat attaching belt

near the floor at the door side of the seat.

4. Put the belt’s special latch plate into the vehicle’s

safety belt buckle.

5. You can make the belt longer by tilting the buckle

and pulling it along the belt.

5. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions

for the child restraint.

7. Secure the child in the child restraint as the

instructions say.

8. Run the belt through or around the child restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how.

9. Put the hook on the free end through the slot in the

latch plate.

10.

11.

To make it tight, pull the belt while you push down on the child restraint. If the belt won’t stay tight, switch it end for end. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure.

3. Put the belt away

in your vehicle, so it won’t fly around in a crash and injure someone.

in a safe place

4. Remember to reattach the automatic belt again,

once the child restraint is removed. Be sure it isn’t twisted.

Removing the Child Seat Restraint 1. Push the button on the safety belt buckle and remove

the special latch plate. Leave the latch plate on the special belt.

2. Push the spring on the hook near the door and

remove the special belt.

Larger Children

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. 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.

Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts.

1-59

Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The In a belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time.

@ What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, , but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?

A: Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but

be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in, a crash ‘the child’s upper body would.have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is si.tting in a rear outside position of a four-door model, 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, YQU might want to place the child in the center seat positio~ the one that has only a lap belt.

1-60

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.

1-61

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

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 yaur 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.) 1-62

~-

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 worlung properly -- and what to do if you have a problem. 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.

2-1

1

The ignition keys are for the

The door keys are for the doors and all ‘Other locks.

When a new Pontiac is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the door keys and gives them to the first owner.

2-2

The ignition keys don’t have plugs. Your Pontiac dealer or Roadside Assistance has the code for your keys. Each plug has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra door keys..Keep the plugs in a safe place. If you lose your door keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs. If you need a new key, contact your Pontiac dealer who can obtain the correct key code. Remember to carry the pre-cut emergency key which Pontiac sends after delivery. In an emergency, call Pontiac Roadside Assistance at 1-800-ROADSIDE or 1-800-762-3743.

NOTICE:

Y m Bontiac has a number of features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock YQW keys inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So be sure you have extra keys.

Door Locks /1\ 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, use your door key or Remote Lock Control transmitter, if your vehicle has this option.

From the inside, slide the lever back to lock the door. To unlock the door, slide the lever forward. Power Door Locks Press the power door lock switch to lock or unlock all doors. On four-door models, the rear doors do not have power door lock switches. The lever on each rear door works only that door’s lock. It won’t lock or unlock all the doors.

Remote Lock Control (Option) If your Pontiac has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Remote Lock Control transmitter operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Automatic Door Locks Just close your doors and turn on the ignition. All of the doors will lock when you move your shift lever out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). All doors will unlock automatically when the ignition is turned off. If someone needs to get out while the~ehicle is running, have that person uste the manual or power lock. When the door is cl’osed again, it will lock automatically as long as the shift lever is out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and the ignition is on. Note that the door must be opened, then closed, or the door will not automatically relock. If you don’t want the doors to unlock automatically when you turn the ignition,off, you can remove the Lock Control fuse in the instrument panel fuse block. See “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, open your door and set the locks from inside. Then get out and close the door.

2-4

Should interference to this system occur, try this:

Operation

Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions on battery replacement. Check the distance. You may be too far from your vehicle. This product has a maximum range.

m Check the location. Other vehicles or objects may be

blocking the signal. See your Pontiac dealer or a qualified technician for service.

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

Press UNLOCK once to unlock the driver’s:door. Press UNLOCK again within five seconds to unlock all the doors. The interior lamps will come on (see “Sustained Interior Illumination” in the Index for more details). To lock all of the doors, cress DOOR. To unlock the trunk, press the vehicle symbol on the transmitter. The trunk will only unlock if your transaxle is in PARK (P).

I‘-

2-5

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 ur stolen, a replacement can be purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer. When the dealer matches the replacement transmitter to your vehicle, any remaining transmitters must also be matched. Once the new transrnitter is coded, the lost transmitter will not unlock your vehicle. Each vehicle can have only two transmitters matched to it. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years. You can tell the batteries are weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the batteries.

To replace your batteries: 1. Insert a flat object like a dime into the slot on the back of the transmitter. Gently pry apart the front and back.

2. Gently pry the batteries out of the transmitter. 3. Put the new batteries into the transmitter as shown

on the transmitter. Use Duracell@ batteries, type DL201 6, or equivalent.

4. Put the two halves back together. Make sure the halves are together tightly so water won’t get in.

5. Test the transmitter.

Trunk A CAUTION:

Trunk Lock

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

Make sure all windows are shut. 7hrn the fan on your heating or cooling system to its highest speed with the setting on VENT. That will force outside air into your vehicle. See “Comfort Controls” in the Index. If you have air outlets on or under the instrument panel, open them all the way.

See “Engine Exhaust” in the Index.

To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the door key into the lock and turn it. You can also use the Remote Lock Control transmitter, if your vehicle has this option.

Remote Trunk Release (Option)

Press the button behind the glove box door to unlock the trunk from inside your vehicle. Your transaxle shift lever must be in PARK (P). Remember that your trunk can be opened at any time using this lock release.

2-7

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 and 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? 0 Put your valuables in a storage area, like your trunk

or glove box.

0 Lock the glove box.

Lock all the doors except the driver’s.

0 Then take the door key with you. PASS-Key@ I1

Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key I1 (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key I1 is a passive tbeft-deterrent system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition.

”

PASS-Key 11 uses a resistor pellet in the ignition key

When the PASS-Key I1 system senses that someone is using the wrong key, it shuts down the vehicle’s starter and fuel systems. For about three minutes, the starter won’t work and fuel won’t go to the engine. If someone tries to start your vehicle again or uses another key during this time, the vehicle will not start. This discourages someone from randomly trying different keys with different resistor pellets in an attempt to make a match. The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the engine may not start. If the engine does not start and the SECURITY light is on, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the, key. Wait about three minutes and try again. The SECURITY light may remain on during this time. If the starter still won’t work, and the key appears to be clean and dry, wait about three minutes and try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs ‘service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key 11.

If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work and the SECURITY light will flash. But you don’t have to wait three minutes before trying another ignition key. See your Pontiac dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key 11 to have a new key made. If you’re ever driving and the SECURITY light comes on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn