1997 Pontiac Grand PRIX Owners Manual

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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Engine Coolant Heater (Option)

In very cold weather, 0°F (- 18 “C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better €uel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle. To Use tl 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. 2-18

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.

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.

Automatic Transaxle Operation

Your automatic transaxle may have a shift lever on the steering column or on the console between the seats. Maximum engine speed is limited when you’re in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), to protect driveline components from improper operation.

There are several different positions for your shift lever. 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.

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.

Make sure the shift lever is fully into PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Release the shift lever button if you have a console shift. Then move the shift lever out of PARK (P), being sure to press the shift lever button if you have a console shift. See “Shifting Out of PARK (P)” in the Index. REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up.

NOTICE:

I Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.

To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow” in the Index,

~~

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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 I or objects. shift out of PARK (P) or Don’t NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is racing.

NOTICE:

I Damage to your transaxle caused by shifting out

I of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) with the engine

racing isn’t covered by your warranty.

AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving. If your vehicle has overdrive, AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) is the overdrive position. If you need more power for passing, and you’re:

Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down.

0 Going about 35 mph (55 k m h ) or more, push the

accelerator pedal all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power.

NOTICE:

If your vehicle 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 (55 km/h) and AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) for higher speeds.

THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal driving, but 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):

When driving on hilly, winding roads. When towing a trailer, so there is less shifting between gears. When going down a steep 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) at speeds over 55 mph (88 km/h), or you can damage your transaxle. Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) 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.

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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 shift lever is put in FIRST (1)’ the transaxle won’t shift into first gear until the vehicle is going slowly enough.

NOTICE:

~~~~~~

If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in a solid very deep sand or mud or were up against object. You could 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.

Shift Lock Release (Console Shift) If your vehicle’s battery should go dead, there are two override access slots that will allow you to override park lock. The first is located underneath the steering column below the lock cylinder. To use this slot, first remove the trim cap. Insert a key or screwdriver into the access slot and press the lock cylinder.

You will now be able to remove your key from the ignition. Be sure to replace the trim cap after use. If the car has a column mounted gear shift lever, you will now also be able to shift your vehicle out of PARK (P).

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Performance Shifting (If Equipped)

Press the performance shift button, located on the side of the console shift knob, to allow the transaxle to shift at higher engine speeds, increasing acceleration performance.

For cars with center console mounted gear shift levers, the second access slot is located on the right hand side of the console shift panel, next to the shift lever. Insert a screwdriver into the slot. Pry the cap open using the screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the cap. Press down and hold. You will now be able to shift your vehicle out of PARK (P).

If you have a vehicle with the option 3800 Supercharged engine, the words “Performance Shift” will glow in the trip computer when the Performance Shift is in operation. Downshifts will occur at a lower percentage of accelerator use while you’re in the performance shift mode. Press the button again to return to normal shifting. The transaxle will then shift at lower engine speeds, increasing fuel economy.

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Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat, You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle.

If you are towing a trailer and are pasking on any hill, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving.

Parking Brake

~~

~~~~ L

~~

~~

NOTICE:

To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot,

’ J - ‘5, ‘,-: ‘

To release the parking brake, hold the’rZguhr brake pedal down with your right foot and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot. When you lift your left foot, the parking brake pedal will follow it to the released position.

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Shifting Into PARK (P)

Column Shift 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this:

It can be 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. 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, use the steps that follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer’’ in the Index.

Pull the lever toward you.

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Console Shift I . Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and

set the parking brake.

2, Move the shift lever into PARK (P) position like this:

Move the lever up as far as it will go.

3, Move the ignition key to LOCK. 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P).

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Hold in the lever, located on the front of the shift knob, and push the shift knob all the way toward the front of your vehicle. Move the ignition key to LOCK. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle i s in PARK (P).

3. 4.

Torque Lock If you are parlung on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P). This is called “torque lock.” To prevent torque lock, set the parking brake and then shift into PARK (P) properly before you leave the driver’s seat. To find out how, see “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. When you are ready to drive, move the shift lever out of PARK (P) before you release the parking brake. If torque lock does occur, you may need to have another vehicle push yours a little uphill to take some of the pressure from the parking pawl in the transaxle, so you can pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running

It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move (P) suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK with the parking brake firmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch fire. You or others could be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unless you have to.

If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in PARK (P) and your parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into the PARK (P) position, hold the regular brake pedal down. Then, see if you can move the shift lever away from PARK (P) without first pulling it toward you (or, if you have a console shift lever, without first pushing the button). If you can, it means that the shift lever wasn’t fully locked into PARK (P).

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Shifting Out of PARK (P) Your Pontiac has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock. You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN. See “Automatic Transaxle Operation” in the Index. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Release the shift lever button if you have a console shift. Then move the shift lever out of PARK (P), being sure to press the shift lever button if you have a console shift. If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P) with column shift, try this: 1. Turn the key to OFF. 2. Apply and hold the brake until the end of Step 4. 3. Shift to NEUTRAL (N). 4. Start the engine and shift to the drive gear you want. 5. Have the vehicle fixed as soon as you can. With Console Shift see “Shift Lock Release” section.

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Parking Over Things That Burn

r Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust

parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn.

Engine Exhaust

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in ifi

Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath.

0 Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.

Your vehicle was damaged when driving over high points on the road or over road debris. Repairs weren’t done correctly.

0 Your vehicle or exhaust system had been

modified improperly.

If you ever suspect exhaust is coming into your vehicle:

Drive it only with all the windows down to blow out any CO; and Have your vehicle fixed immediately.

Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know.

A CAUTION:

Idling the engine with the air system control o’ff could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide (CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happen is a garage. Exhaust -- with CO -- can come in easily. NEVER park in a garage with the engine running. Another closed-in place can be a blizzard. (See “Blizzard” in the Index.)

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Power Windows

Switches on the driver’s door armrest control each of the windows when the ignition is on. In addition, each passenger door has a switch for its own window.

It can be 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’ve left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. Yon 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).

Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into PARK (P)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer’’ in the Index.

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The driver’s window switch has an auto-down feature. This switch is labeled AUTO. Tap the rear of the switch, and the driver’s window will open a small amount. If the rear of the switch is pressed all the way down and released, the window will go all the way down. To stop the window while it is lowering, press the front of the switch. To raise the window, press and hold the front of the switch. On four-door models, the driver’s window controls also include a lock-out switch. Press LOCK OUT to stop front and rear passengers from using their window switches. The driver can still control all the windows with the lock on. Push LOCK OUT again for normal window operation. When the orange band on the switch is showing, the passengers can operate their windows. Full Floating Horn The full floating horn is designed so that you may press anywhere on the steering wheel pad to sound the horn.

Tilt Steering Wheel

A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.

To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel in place.

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Wm Signal/Multifunction Lever

The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your:

Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator

0 Headlamp High/Low Beam 0 Windshield Wipers Windshield Washer Cruise Control (If Equipped)

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Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically. An arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change.

c:

To signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until you complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it. As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrow flashes faster than normal, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’t see your turn signal.

If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you signal a turn, check for burned-out bulbs and then check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). A chme will sound if you leave your turn signal on for more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km). Headlamp HigWLow Beam

Windshield Wipers

To change your headlamps from low beam to high beam, or high to low, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you. Then release it. When the high beams are on, a light on the instrument panel also will be on.

Flash-to-Pass When your headlamps are off, pull the lever toward you to momentarily switch on the high beams (to signal that you are going to pass). When you release the lever they will turn off.

You control the windshield wipers by turning the band marked WIPER. For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the band on MIST longer.

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For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band to LO. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, turn the band to OFF. You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The closer to LO, the shorter the delay. Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using them. If they’re frozen to the windshield, carefully loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become damaged, get new blades or blade inserts. Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away snow or ice to prevent an overload.

Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever, there’s a paddle with the word PUSH on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle. The wipers will run for several sweeps and then either stop or return to your preset speed. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index.

In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.

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Cruise Control (If Equipped)

With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40km/h) or more without keeping your foot on the 'accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, the cruise control shuts off.

Cruise control can b'e dangerous where you7-'" ;: 1 can't drive safely at a steady speed. So, don't use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic. Cruise control can be dangerous on slippery roads. On such roads, fast changes in tire traction can cause needless wheel spinning, and you could lose control. Don't use cruise control on slippery roads.

Setting Cruise Control

A CAUTION:

If you leave your cruise control switch on when you're not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don't want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch OFF until you want to use it.

1, Move the cruise control switch to ON. 2. Get up to the speed you want.

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3. Push in the SET button at the end of the lever and

release it.

4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Resuming a Set Speed Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the cruise control. But you don’t need to reset it.

Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A (Resume/Accelerate) for about half a second. You’ll go right back up to your chosen speed and stay there.

Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed:

Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Push in the SET button, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed. Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. (To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to WA for less than half a second and then release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) faster.) The accelerate feature will only work after you set the cruise control speed by pushing the SET button.

Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control:

Push in the SET button until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it.

0 To slow down in very small amounts, push the SET button €or less than half a second. Each time you do this, you’ll go 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower.

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Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the cruise control speed you set earlier. Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Of course, applying the brake takes you out of cruise control, Many drivers find this to be too much trouble and don't use cruise control on steep hills. Ending Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the cruise control:

Step lightly on the brake pedal; OR Move the cruise switch to OFF.

Erasing Cruise Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control or the ignition, or shift into PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N), your cruise control set speed memory is erased. Lamps The lamp controls are located on the lower, left side of the instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel. They control these systems:

Headlamps @ Taillamps

Parking Lamps License Lamps

0 Sidemarker Lamps 0 Instrument Panel Lights 0 Courtesy Lamps 0 Fo'g Lamps

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A light sensor on top of the instrument panel makes the DRL work, so be sure it isn't covered. The DRL system will make your low-beam headlamps come on at a reduced brightness when: 0 The ignition is on, 0 The headlamp switch is off, and 0 The parking brake is released. When the DRL are on, only your low-beam headlamps will be on. The taillamps, sidemarker and other lamps won't be on. Your instrument panel won't be lit up either. When it's dark enough outside, your headlamps will change to full brightness. The other lamps that come on with your headlamps will also come on. When it's bright enough outside, the regular lamps will go out, and your low-beam headlamps change to the reduced brightness of DRL. To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, set the parking brake while the ignition is in OFF or LOCK. Then start your vehicle. The DRL will stay off until you release the parking brake. As with any vehicle, you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it.

go : Turn the knob to this symbol to turn on the headlamps and other operating lamps. PG: Turn the knob to this symbol to turn on the parking and other operating lamps without the headlamps. Turn the knob to OFF to turn off the lamps. Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset.

Fog Lamps

Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control

The fog lamps switch is located in the upper, left corner of the instrument panel, to the left of the instrument panel cluster. To turn the fog lamps on, press the right side of the fog lamps switch. A light will glow on the switch to let you know that they are on. (Your parking lamps must be on, or your fog lamps won’t come on.) Press the left side of the switch to turn the fog lamps off. The fog lamps will go off whenever you change to high-beam headlamps. When you return to low beams. the fog lamps will come on again. 2-40

You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by moving the interior lamps dial. Turn the dial to the right to increase the brightness of the instrument panel lights, to the left to decrease the brightness. Turn the control all the way to the left to turn them off.

Delayed Illumination The Delayed Illumination feature will continue to illuminate the interior for 25 seconds after all the doors have been closed so that you can find the ignition and buckle your seat belt at night. Delayed Illumination will not occur while the ignition is in RUN or ACCESSORY position. After 25 seconds have elapsed, the interior lamps will slowly fade out. The lamps will fade out before the 25 seconds have elapsed if you: 0 Turn the ignition to the RUN or

ACCESSORY position. Lock all doors using your key chain transmitter (if equipped). Lock the doors using the power door lock switch.

To turn Delayed Illumination feature off or on. See “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index.

Courtesy Lamps When any door is opened, several lamps come on. These lamps are courtesy lamps. They make it easy for you to enter and leave your vehicle at night. You can also turn these lamps on by turning the interior lamps dial all the way to the right. Illuminated Entry The Illuminated Entry feature will illuminate the interior so that you can see the inside of your vehicle before you enter at night. The interior lamps will come on for 40 seconds when you unlock your doors using the key chain transmitter (if equipped) and the ignition is in the LOCK or OFF position. After 40 seconds have elapsed, the interior lamps will slowly fade out. The lamps will fade out before 40 seconds have elapsed if you:

Lock all doors using your key chain transmitter. Lock the doors using the power door lock switch.

When any door is opened, illuminated entry is canceled. The interior lamps will stay on while any door is opened and slowly fade out when all doors are closed. The interior lamps may stay on for up to 25 seconds after all doors have been closed if they have not been locked. See “Delayed Illumination” later in this section.

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Exit Lighting So that you can see to exit the vehicle at wight, your vehicle is equipped with the Exit Lighting feature. The interior lamps will illuminate for up to 25 seconds when you remove your key from the ignition. After 25 seconds have elapsed, the interior lamps will slowly fade out. The lamps will fade out before the 25 seconds have elapsed if you:

Battery Saver Your vehicle has a feature to help prevent you from draining the battery in case you accidentally leave the interior, trunk or underhood lamps on. If YOU leave any of these lamps on while the ignition is in LOCK or OFF position, they will automatically turn off after 10 minutes. The lamps won’t come back on again until you do one of the following:

Turn the ignition to the RUN or ACCESSORY position. Lock all doors using your key chain transmitter (if equipped).

0 Lock the doors using the power door lo’ck switch. When any door is opened, Exit Lighting is canceled. The interior lamps will stay on while any ‘door is opened and will slowly fade out when all the doors are closed. The interior lamps may stay on €or up to 25 seconds after all the doors have been closed if they have not been locked. See“De1ayed Illumination” earlier in this section. To turn the Exit Lighting feature off or on, see “Locks and Lighting Choices” in the Index.

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Turn the ignition to the RUN or ACCESSORY position; Turn the interior lamp dial all the way to the right, then back slightly to the left; Open (or close and reopen) a door that is closed.

Note that if your vehicle has less than 15 miles (25 Pun) on the odometer, the battery saver will turn off the lamps after only three minutes. Retained Accessory Power With retained accessory power, your power windows, audio system and sunroof will continue to work up to 10 minutes after the ignition key is turned to the OFF position and 4

of the doors are opened.

Front Reading Lamps

Rear Assist Handle Reading Lamps (If Equipped) There is a reading lamp provided in each rear assist handle. Use the button next to each lamp to turn them on and off. Roof Console Reading Lamps These lamps are part of the roof console. They will go on when you open the doors. When the doors are closed, push the button next to each lamp to turn them on and off. The console also contains an open storage bin.

If your Grand Prix has the optional sunroof, you will have reading lamps in front of your sunroof switch. Press the button behind each. reading lamp to turn them on and off.

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Locks and Lighting Choices Your Pontiac’s locks and lighting systems can be programmed with several different features. The features you can program depend on the options that came with your vehicle. The following chart shows the features that can be programmed and which options you need to have to program them.

Feature

Number of Chimes Sounded

Delayed Illurnma- tion/ Exit Lighting

Auto~matic Door Locks

Closed Locking/ Lockout

Remote Last Door Remote Driver’s Lock/ Door Unlock Confirma - Unlock Control Deterrent tion

Content Theft

Content Theft Arming/ Disarming

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Entering Programming Mode To program features, your vehicle must be in this programming mode. Follow these steps:

FUSE USA

CIRCUIT BREAKERS

piq ILUM

STR WHL

RAP 0 0 PWR WDO

ECM

CIG LTR

’

CRUISE

INT LAMP

I Printed in U S A .

SE CHART MALLPGM I MALL ‘TT:FL

I WIPER I SUNROOF I RADIO

PWR LOCK HSEATILUM

HAZARD

PWR MIR

R DEFOG

HVAC HI

STOP LAMP

AUWCNSL

CD CHG

I/P - IGN

SIR

ABS

TURN

BTSI

HVAC CTRL

DIC/HVAC

ABS IGN

DRL

1. The Content Theft-Deterrent system (if equipped)

must be disarmed.

2. Remove the MALL PGM fuse from the instrument

panel fuse block.

3. Turn the ignition switch to ACCESSORY. 4. You will hear one to four chimes, depending upon

the features that you have.

You can now program your choices. Leaving Programming Mode To get out of the programming mode, just turn the key from the ACCESSORY position to the OFF position and put the MALL PGM fuse back into the instrument panel fuse block. Delayed IlluminatiodExit Lighting Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 4. This means that:

The interior lamps will stay on for awhile after all the doors are closed and The interior lamps will come on and stay on for a while whenever you remove the keys from the ignition.

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Automatic Door Locks

A CAUTION:

Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers-especially children-can easily 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.

To change the factory setting while in the programming mode do the following: 1. Tun the interior lamps dial all the way to the right

and then back slightly to the left.

2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vlehide is set for. You change the mode by turning the interior lamps dial all the way to the right and then back slightly to the left.

3. Repeat step 2 until you hear the number of chimes

that matches the mode you want.

Mode 1: Both Off (The interior lamps will turn on OF off at the same instant that a door is opened or closed). Mode 2: Delayed Illumination Only (The interior lamps will stay on for about 25 seconds after all the doors are closed, or until you lock the doors). Mode 3: Exit Lighting Only (The interim lamps will come on whenever you remwe the key from the ignition and stay on for about 25 seconds, or until you lock the doors). Mode 4: Both On (This combines modes 2 and 3).

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Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 3. This means that: 0 All doors will automatically lock when you shift out

of PARK (P) and All doors will automatically unlock when the ignition is turned OFF.

To change the factory setting, while in the programming mode do the following: 1. Press LOCK on the power lock switch. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. You change the mode by pressing LOCK again. 3. Repeat step 2 until you hear the number of chimes

that matches the mode you want.

Mode 1: Off (Automatic door locking and unlocking are disabled). You will always need to lock your door manually while driving to increase occupant safety. 0 To lock: All doors will lock when you press the power door lock switch or when you lock the vehicle using the Remote Lock Control key chain transmitter. To unlock: All doors will unlock when you press the power door lock switch again or when you press UNLOCK on the key chain transmitter.

Mode 2: Automatic Locking Only 0 Automatic Door Unlocking: Off 0 Automatic Door Locking: Shift out of PARK (P) with the ignition on and the driver’s door closed, all doors will lock automatically.

Mode 3: Automatic Unlocking With Ignition Off

Automatic Door Unlocking: Turn off the ignition with the Transaxle in PARK (P) and all doors will unlock automatically.

0 Automatic Door Locking: Shift out of PARK (P)

with the ignition on and the driver’s door closed and all doors will unlock automatically.

Mode 4: Automatic Unlocking and Locking With Transaxle in PARK (P) 0 Automatic Door Unlocking: Shift into PARK (P) with

the ignition on and all doors will unlock automatically. Automatic Door Locking: Shift out of PARK (P) with the ignition on and the driver’s door closed and all doors will lock automatically.

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Lockout DeterrenULast Door CIosed Locking Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 2. This means that:

If you leave your keys in the ignition and get out of the driver’s door, you won’t be able to lock the doors with the power door locks and

To change the factory setting, do the following: 1. Press UNLOCK on the power lock switch. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The nurnber of chimes tells you which mode your vehcle is set for. You change the mode by pressing UNLOCK again. 3. Repeat step 2 until you hear the number of chimes

that matches the mode you want.

Mode 1: Both Off (Doors will always lock immediately when you press LOCK on the power lock switch or the key chain transmitter, if equipped).

Mode 2: Lockout Deterrent Only (If you leave your key in the ignition with the driver’s door open, you will not be able to lock the doors using your power locks). Mode 3: Last Door Closed Locking Only (If the power lock switch or key chain transmitter (if equipped) is used to lock the vehicle while any door is open and key is out of ignition, you will hear three chimes. The doors will not lock. Five seconds after the last door is closed, all doors will lock). Mode 4: Both On (This combines modes 2 and 3). Remote Driver’s Unlock Control Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 2. This means that: 0 When you press UNLOCK on your key chain transmitter, the driver’s door will unlock and When you press UNLOCK on your key chain transmitter again, all doors will unlock,

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To change the factory setting while in the programming mode, do the following: 1. Press UNLOCK on the key chain transmitter. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of c?&mes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. You change the mode by pressing UNLOCK again. 3. Repeat step 2 until you hear the number of chimes

that matches the mode you want.

Mode 1: Remote All Doors Unlock (When you press UNLOCK on your key chain transmitter, all doors will unlock). Mode 2: Remote Driver’s Door and All Doors Unlock (When you press UNLOCK on your key chain transmitter once, the driver’s door will unlock. If you press UNLOCK again within five seconds, all doors will unlock. Remote LocMUnlock Confirmation Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 4. This means that:

When you use the key chain transmitter to lock your vehicle, your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know the command has been received. If you press LOCK on the key chain transmitter again, the horn will sound briefly and the headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your vehicle is locked.

0 When you use the key chain transmitter to unlock

your vehicle or open your trunk, your headlamps will flash briefly.

To change the factory setting while in the programming mode do the following: 1. 2.

Press the LOCK button on the key chain transmitter. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. You change the mode by pressing LOCK on your key chain transmitter again. Repeat step 2 until you hear the number of chimes that matches the mode you want.

3.

Mode 1: Off (Remote lock and unlock confirmation are disabled). Mode 2: Remote Lock Confirmation with Exterior Lamps Only Remote Lock Confirmation: 0 When you use the chain transmitter to lock your

vehicle, your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your command is received.

0 Remote Unlock confirmation: when you use the key chain transmitter to unlock your vehicle or open your trunk, your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your command is received.

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Mode 3: Remote Lock Confirmation with Exterior Lights and Horn

Remote Lock Confirmation: When you use the key chain transmitter to lock your vehicle, the horn will sound briefly and your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your command is received. Remote Unlock confirmation: When you use the key chain transmitter to unlock your vehicle or open your trunk, your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your command is received.

Mode 4: Remote Lock Confirmation with Exterior Lights and Horn (on second LOCK press)

Remote Lock Confirmation: When you use the key chain transmitter to lock your vehicle, your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your command is received. The horn will sound briefly and the headlamps will flash briefly if you press the LOCK button again within five seconds. Remote Unlock Confirmation: When you use the key chain transmitter to unlock your vehicle or open your trunk, your headlamps will flash briefly to let you know your command is received.

Content Theft Your vehicle comes with this feature set in Mode 4. This means that:

If anyone damages or enters your vehicle while your Content Theft-Deterrent System is armed, an alarm will sound and your headlamps will flash for up to two minutes.

To change the factory setting while in the programming mode, do the following: 1. Turn the parking lamps on, then off. 2. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. You change the mode by turning the park lamps on, then off again.

3. Repeat step 2 until you hear the number of chimes

that matches the mode you want.

Mode 1: Damage Detection with Less Sensitivity (If anyone seriously damages your vehicle, tampers with the trunk lock or opens a door while your theft deterrent is armed, an alarm will sound and your headlamps will flash for up to two minutes).

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Mode 2: Damage Detection Off (If anyone tampers with your trunk lock or opens a door while your Content Theft-Deterrent System is armed, an alarm will sound and your headlamps will flash for up to two minutes). Mode 3: All Off (Your Content Theft-Deterrent System is always disarmed). Mode 4: Damage Detection with More Sensitivity (If anyone damages your vehicle, tampers with your trunk lock or enters your vehicle while your theft deterrent system is armed, an alarm will sound and your headlamps will flash for up to two minutes). Content Theft-Deterrent Arming and Disarming Your vehicle comes with this feature in Mode 1. This means that:

your Lontent Theft-Deterrent System will arm when you lock the doors using either the power lock switch while any door is open and the key is removed from the ignition. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will arm when you lock the doors with the key chain transmitter. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will disarm when you unlock the doors with your key or with your key chain transmitter.

To change the factory setting, while in the programming mode do the following: 1.

Insert your second key fully into any door key cylinder and turn it to the unlock position. This step is inconvenient, but necessary to prevent accidental programming of this feature to Mode 2. Do not program this feature to Mode 2 without first reading the special note contained in the description for that mode. The door key lock cylinder must remain in the unlock position during steps 2-4. Press the horn symbol on your key chain transmitter. Count the number of chimes you hear. The number of chimes tells you which mode your vehicle is set for. You change the mode by pressing the horn symbol on your key chain transmitter again. Repeat step 3 until you hear the number of chimes that matches the mode you want. Remove your key from the door key cylinder.

2. 3.

4.

5.

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Mode 1: Power Lock Switch Arming Off. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will arm when you Jock the doors with your key chain transmitter. The key must be removed from the ignition when you lock the doors or the Content Theft-Deterrent System will not arm. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will disarm when you unlock the doors with the keys or your key chain transmitter. Mode 2: Key Chain Transmitter ArdDisarm Only

0 Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will arm when

you lock the doors with your key chain transmitter. The key must be removed from the ignition when you lock the doors or the Content Theft-Deterrent System will not arm. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will disarm when you unlock the doors with your key chain transmitter.

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Special Note: While this mode provides increased security, it can be a problem if your key chain transmitter is damaged, lost or if it fails to operate for any reason while the Content Theft-Deterrent System is armed. The Content Theft-Deterrent System must be disarmed for the engine to run and, while in mode 2, your key can no longer disarm the system.

Mode 3: Full Arming and Disarming Your Content Theft-Deterrent system will arm when you lock the doors using either power lock switch while any door is open and the key is removed from the ignition. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will arm when you lock the doors with your key chain transmitter. The key must be removed from the ignition when you lock the doors or the Content Theft-Deterrent System will not arm. Your Content Theft-Deterrent System will disarm when you unlock the doors with your key or your key chain transmitter.

Mirrors Adjust all the mirrors so you can see clearly when you are sitting in a comfortable driving position. Inside Daymight Rearview Mirror

Electrochromic Daymight Rearview Mirror (If Equipped)

To reduce glare from lamps behind you, push the lever away from you (to the night position). To return the mirror back to the day position, pull the lever toward you.

Your Pontiac may have an electrochromic dayhight rearview mirror. Push the button on the bottom of the mirror to turn this feature on. The mirror will darken gradually to reduce glare from headlamps behind you. This may take a few moments.

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One photocell on the front of the mirror senses when it is becoming dark outside. Another photocell, facing rearward, senses headlamps behind you. To turn the electrochromic feature off, press the button on the bottom of the mirror again. To keep the photocells operating well, occasionally clean them with a cotton swab and glass cleaner. Power Outside Mirrors

The electric mirror control is near the driver’s window, on the armrest. Turn the control to the left to adjust the left mirror or to the right to adjust the right mirror. Then move the control in the direction you want to move the mirror.

Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.

A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) Book farther away than they really are. If you cut to’o sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your insilde mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

Storage Compartments Glove Box Use the master key to lock and unlock the glove box. To open, lift the right side of the latch.

29.54

Center Console Storage

To open the armrest storage area, pull up on the front edge of the latch. The console has cassette and CD storage and a coinholder.

The center console also contains two cupholders. To access the cupholders, pull the cupholder door, located just behind the console shift lever. The two cupholders will pop up into an upright position. Just below the center ashtray is an open storage compartment. In front of this, you may have a smaller compartment for storing smaller items.

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Overhead Console (If Equipped)

1. Open the compartment by pressing the latch forward.

Remove the piece of self-sticking Velcro@'.

2. Peel the protective backing fiom the Velcro and press it

firmly to the back of your garage door opener.

3. Be sure that the button on your garage door opener is

centered above the area with raised lines on the compartment door. Make sure the button is facing down and press the opener firmly into place.

The optional overhead console has reading lamps, storage compartments (including one for your garage door opener and one for sunglasses) and an accessory power outlet. These features are explained on the following pages. READING LAMPS: To turn on or off either reading lamp, press the switch next to it. GARAGE DOOR OPENER: You can store your garage door opener in the rear compartment of your overhead console, and operate it from this position. To install your garage door opener, follow these instructions:

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4. Once the opener is installed, remove the peg (€3)

from the compartment. Install the peg onto the feature (A) on the door that is aligned with your garage door opener button.

5. Add one peg at a time until your garage door opener

operates with the compartment door closed when you press the button.

To open the sunglasses

SUNGLASSES STORAGE COMPARTMENT Your sunglasses storage compartment is the second compartment from the back on the overhead console. storage compartment, press the release latch forward and pull the compartment down to the full open position. ACCESSORY POWER OUTLET In front of your reading lights in a small, black door. Push up on the bottom edge of this door to expose your accessory power outlet and a small storage compartment. Trunk Access Panel (If Equipped)

If your Grand Prix has rear seat armrests, you will also have a trunk access panel. To use the trunk access panel, pull your rear armrest down, unlock the access panel and pull it down. Rear Armrest Storage (If Equipped) If you have a trunk access panel, you will also have a pull down armrest that contains an open storage bin and two cupholders. Convenience Net (If Equipped)

Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it on the back wall of the trunk.

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NOTICE:

Don’t put papers and other things that burn into your ashtrays. If you do, cigarettes or other smoking materials could set them on fire, causing damage.

To use the lighter, located inside the center front ashtray, just push it in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself.

y. That can make it overheat, damaging the

Put small loads, like grocery bags, in the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops. The net isn’t for larger, heavier loads. Store them in the trunk as far forward as you can. You can unhook the net so that it will lie flat when you’re not using it. You will also need to unhook the net for taillamp removal. Ashtrays and Lighter The center front ashtray is on the instrument panel. To open it, pull at the bottom of the ashtray until it is fully open. To remove the ashtray cup, lift the tabs on the sides of the ashtray cup and pull out. Your Grand Prix has one rear ashtray. There is either one on the front seat armrest back or one on the back of the center console (if you have that option). To open the ashtray, press the right side and turn it open. To remove the ashtray for cleaning, press the snuffer as you lift up the bottom of the ashtray.

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Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also swing them from front to side. Visor Vanity Mirrors

Accessory Outlet If your vehicle has a center console, you have a 12-volt outlet. It is on the passenger’s side, near the floor. Remove the tethered cap to use the outlet.

I NOTICE:

Adding some electrical equipment to your vehicle can damage it or keep other things from working as they should. This wouldn’t be covered by your warranty. Check with your dealer before adding electrical equipment and never use anything requiring more than 20 amps.

Open the cover to expose the vanity mirror. If your vehicle has the optional lighted vanity mirrors, the lamps come on when you open the cover.

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Purse or Litter Bag Holder

Sunroof (If Equipped)

‘On the front of the center console, to the right of the accessory power outlet (on the passenger’s side of the vehicle), there is a hook that can be used to hold a purse or litter bag.

Your sunroof includes a sliding glass panel and a two piece sunshade. The switch works only when the ignition or RAP is on. See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index.

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Push the rear of the switch once and the sunroof will open to the vent position only. You will need to open the sunshade by hand. Push the rear of the switch a second time and the sunroof will open the remainder of the way by itself. This is the express-open feature. To close the sunroof, push and hold the front of the switch until the sunroof closes. The sunshade can only be closed by hand.

Instrument Panel -- Your Information System

LOW FUEL

-1

-E w

U N W E D FUEL ONLY

>>

LOW OIL

APPLY BAAKE TO SHIFT FROM PARK

TEMP

Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel is in your tank and many other things you need to drive safely and economically.

United States Version Shown, Others Similar

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Speedometer/Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven in either miles (used in the United States) or .in kilometers (used in Canada). Your Pontiac has a tamper-resistant odometer. If you see silver lines between the numbers, you’ll know someone has probably tampered with it and the numbers may not be correct. You may wonder what happens if your vehicle needs a new odometer installed. If the new one can be set to the mileage total of the old odometer, then that will be d’one. If it can’t, then it will be set at zero and a label must be put on the driver’s door to show the old mileage reading when the new odometer was installed.

Trip Odometer Your trip odometer tells how far you have driven since you last reset it. To set it to zero, press the RESET button on the right side of the instrument cluster.

Tachometer

Ill I

The tachometer displays the engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (rpm).

NOTICE:

Do not operate the engine with the tachometer in the red area, or engine damage may occur.

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Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on briefly when you start the engine just to let you know they’re working. If you are familiar with this section, you should not be alarmed when this happens. Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let you know when there’s a problem with your vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you

2-64

what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly -- and even dangerous. So please get to know your warning lights and gages. They’re a big help. Your vehicle may also have a driver information system that works along with the warning lights and gages. See “Driver Information System” in the Index. Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN or START, a chime will come on for about eight seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is already buckled.

.I

The safety belt light will also come on and stav on for about 20 seconds, then it will flash for about 55 seconds. If the driver’s belt is already buckled, neither the chime nor the light will come on.

If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start the engine or comes on when you are driving, your air bag system may not work properly. Have your vehicle serviced right away. The air bag readiness light should flash for a few seconds when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there is a problem.

Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows SRS AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. The system check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag mo’dules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For more information on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” in the Index.

This light will come on when you start your engine, and it will flash for a few seconds. Then the light should go out. This means the system is ready.

SRS AIR BAG

Charging System Light

/+I

The charging system light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, as a check to show you it’s working. Then it will go out.

Brake System Warning Light Your Pontiac’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t worhng, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.

If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the charging system. It could indicate that you have a loose drive belt or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. Driving while this light is on could drain your battery. If you must drive a short distance with the light on, be certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner.

BRAKE

( 0 (7) :;:;gu

This light should come on briefly when you turn the

I ignition key to RUN. If it

doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready

if there’s

If the light comes on while you are driving, pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice thatthe pedal is harder to gush. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. If the light is still on, or if the

anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing, have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light” and “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

A CAUTION:

Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is on. Driving with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on or if the anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing after you’ve pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.

When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will also come on when you set your parking brake. The light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If it stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means you have a brake problem.

Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

With the anti-lock brake system, this light will come on when you start your engine and it will stay on for three seconds. That’s normal.

If the light flashes when you’re driving, you don’t have anti-lock brakes and there could be a problem with your regular brakes. Pull off the road and stop carefully. You may notice that the pedal is harder to push. Or, the pedal may go closer to the floor. It may take longer to stop. Have the vehicle towed for service. (See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.)

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Wac System Warning Light

TRAC OFF

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

If it stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your Trac System and your vehicle may need service, When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.

Your regular brake system may not be working properly if the anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing, Driving with the anti-lock brake system w’arning light flashing can lead to an accident, After you’ve pulled off the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.

If the anti-lock brake system warning light stays on longer than normal after you’ve started your engine, turn the ignition off. Or, if the light comes o,n and stays on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your Pontiac needs service. If the light is on but not flashing and the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but you don’t have anti-lock brakes. The anti-lock brake system warning light should come on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed €0 if will b ready to warn you if there is a problem. .

’

The Trac System warning light may come on for the following reasons:

Low Traction Light

If you turn the system off by pressing the TRAC button, the warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the system back on, press the button again. The warning light should go off. (See “Trac System” in the Index for more information.) The warning light will come on when you set your parking brake with the engine running, and it will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release fully. If the system is turned on and the warning light stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means there’s a problem with the system.

If the Trac System warning light comes on and stays on for an extended period of time when th,e system is turned on and the parking brake is fully. released, your vehicle needs service.

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

LOW TRAC

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

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Check Tire Pressure Light

CHECK

TIRE PRESS

With the check tire pressure system, after you’ve driven 10 to 20 miles (1 5 to 30 km) the CHECK TIRE PRESS light will come on if the pressure in one tire becomes at least 10 psi (69 kPa) higher or lower than the other three tires.

When the CHECK TIRE PRESS light comes on, you should stop as soon as you can and check all your tires for damage. (If a tire is flat, see “If a Tire Goes Flat’’ in the Index.) Also check the tire pressure in all four tires as soon as you can. See ‘‘Inflation - Tire Pressure in the Index. The light will stay on until you turn off the ignition or press the CALIBRATE TIP9 PRESS button. See “Check Tire Pressure Syst? .” in the Index. If the anti-lock brake system warning light comes on with the CHECK TIRE PRESS light, the check tire pressure system isn’t working. See your Pontiac dealer for service. (Also, see “Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light in the Index.) 2-70

Mal€unctisn Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light)

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

SERVICE

ENIGINIE SOON

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

NOTICE:

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

This light should come on, as a check to show you it is working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not running. If the light doesn’t come on, have it repaired. This light will also come on during a malfunction in one of two ways: 0 Light Flashing -- A misfire condition has been

detected. A misfire increases vehicle emissions and may damage the emission control system on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service is required. Light On Steady -- An emission control system malfunction has been detected on your vehicle. Dealer or qualified service center diagnosis and service may be required.

If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle:

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

If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash, when it is safe to do so, stop the vehicle. Find a safe place to park your vehicle. Turn the key off, wait at least 10 seconds and restart the engine. If the light remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light is still flashing, follow the previous steps, and drive the vehicle to your dealer or qualified service center for service.

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

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

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Oil Warning Light

If you have a problem with your oil pressure, this light may stay on after you start your engine, or come on when you are driving.

This indicates that oil is not going through your engine quickly enough to keep it lubricated. The engine could be low on oil or could have some other oil problem. Have it fixed right away. The oil light could also come on in two other situations: 0 When the ignition is on but the engine is not running,

the light will come on as a test to show you it is working, but the light will go out when you turn the ignition to START. If it doesn’t come on with the ignition on, you may have a problem with the fuse or bulb. Have it fixed right away.

If you make a hard stop, the light may come on for a moment. This is normal.

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

NOTICE:

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

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Low Oil Level Light

Engine Coolant Temperature Light

Your engine is equipped with an oil level monitoring system. When the ignition key is turned on, the LOW OIL LEVEL light will briefly flash. If the light does not flash, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.

This light tells you that your engine coolant has overheated or your radiator cooling fan is not working.

TEMP

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

If the light stays on, stop th’e vehicle on a level surface and turn the engine off, Check the oil level using the engine oil dipstick, (See “Engine Oil” in the Index.) The oil level monitoring system only checks oil level during the brief period between key ‘on and engine crank. It does not monitor engine oil level when the engine is running. Additionally, an oil level check is only performed if the engine has been turned off for a considerable period of time, allowing the oil normally in circulation to drain back into the oil pan.

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Engine Coolant Temp’erature Gage

Low Coolant Warning Light

You have a gage that shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is too hot!

LOW

COOLANT

If this light comes on, your system is low on coolant and the engine may overheat. See “Engine Coolant” in the Index and have your vehicle serviced as soon as you can.

That reading means the same thing as the warning light. It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible. In “Problems on the Road,’’ this manual shows what to do. See “Engine Overheating” in the Index.

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Low Washer Fluid Warning Light

This light will come on when your ignition is on and the fluid container is low.

LOW

Trunk Ajar Warning Light

This light will come an if your trunk is not completely closed.

AJAR

Remember, driving without washes fluid can be dangerous. A bad mud splash can block your vision. You could collide with another vehicle. Check your washer fluid often, and add only the proper fluid. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index.

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Fuel Gage

Low Fuel Light

Your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left when the ignition is on. When the indicator nears EMPTY (E), you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon.

LOW FUEL

If your fuel is low, a light will come on and stay on until you add fuel. It will also come on for a few seconds when you first turn on the ignition as a check to show you it’s working. If it doesn’t come on then, see your dealer.

Here are some things owners ask about. All these situations are normal and do not show a problem with your fuel gage:

At the service station, the pump shuts off before the gage reads FULL (F). It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill it. The gage moves a little when you turn a corner or speed up. The gage needle should move no more than 1/8 of a tank under any driving maneuver.

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Driver Information Center

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..

.. - .. - . - .

. . . ..

. . . .

CHANGE

OIL

SOON

Your Driver Information Center gives you important safety and maintenance facts, When you turn the ignition on, the entire center lights ug.for a few seconds. Then it goes to work.

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Functions CHANGE OIL SOON: This light will appear when the system predicts that the oil’s remaining useful life is almost up. The system predicts remaining oil life using inputs from length of drives, coolant temperature, engine rpm, and vehicle speed. It alerts you to change the oil on a schedule consistent with your vehicle’s driving conditions. To reset your change oil soon system after an oil change, turn the key to the ON position, without the engine running and pump the accelerator 3 times within 5 seconds. LOW WASHER FLUID: This light will come on when your ignition is on and the fluid container is low. CHECK TIRE PRESS: This light alerts you that a tire is low or flat. See “Check Tire Pressure Light” in the Index. TRUNK A JAR: This light alerts you that your trunk is not fully closed.

DOOR AJAR: If one of your doors is left ajar, a light will appear next to that door on the vehicle outline. TRAC SWITCH: If your vehicle has the Trac System (this is not available with the 3800 Supercharged engine), you will have a disable switch on the far right side of your Driver Information Center. Your Trac System is automatically activated when you turn the