2006 Pontiac GTO Owners Manual

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(GAWR) for the front and rear axle; see “Certiﬁcation Label” later in this section. Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit 1. Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs” on your vehicle placard. 2. Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle. 3. Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs. 4. The resulting ﬁgure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs and there will be ﬁve 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs (1400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs). 5. Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4. 6. If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, the load from your trailer will be transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your vehicle. If your vehicle can tow a trailer, see Towinga Traileronpage4-34 for important information on towing a trailer, towing safety rules, and trailering tips. 4-30 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Example 1 Example 2 Item Description Total Item Description Total Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 1 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) · 2 = Available Occupant and Cargo Weight = 740 lbs (330 kg) 300 lbs (136 kg) 440 lbs (199 kg) Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 = Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) · 4 = Available Cargo Weight = 740 lbs (330 kg) 600 lbs (272 kg) 140 lbs (63 kg) 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 4-31 Certiﬁcation Label Example 3 Item Description Total Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 3 = Subtract Occupant Weight 185 lbs (83 kg) · 4 = Available Cargo Weight = 740 lbs (330 kg) 740 lbs (330 kg) 0 lbs (0 kg) Refer to your vehicle’s Tire and Loading Information label for speciﬁc information about your vehicle’s capacity weight and seating positions. The combined weight of the driver, passengers, and cargo should never exceed your vehicle’s capacity weight. 4-32 Label Example A vehicle speciﬁc Certiﬁcation label is attached to the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel, and cargo. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual And, if you do have a heavy load, you should spread it out. {CAUTION: {CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), or either the maximum front or rear Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR). If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, and it can change the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control and crash. Also, overloading can shorten the life of your vehicle. If you put things inside your vehicle — like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else — they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they will keep going. Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. • Put things in the rear area of your vehicle. Try to spread the weight evenly. If you have fold-down rear seats, you will ﬁnd four anchors on the back wall of your trunk. You can use these anchors to tie down lighter loads. They are not strong enough for heavy things, however, so put them as far forward as you can in the trunk or rear area. • Never stack heavier things, like suitcases, inside the vehicle so that some of them are above the tops of the seats. • Do not leave an unsecured child restraint in your vehicle. • When you carry something inside the vehicle, secure it whenever you can. • Do not leave a seat folded down unless you need to. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 4-33 Towing Towing Your Vehicle Consult your dealer or a professional towing service if you need to have your disabled vehicle towed. See Roadside Assistance Program on page7-6. If you want to tow your vehicle behind another vehicle for recreational purposes (such as behind a motorhome), see “Recreational Vehicle Towing” following. Recreational Vehicle Towing Recreational vehicle towing means towing your vehicle behind another vehicle — such as behind a motorhome. The two most common types of recreational vehicle towing are known as “dinghy towing”, which is towing your vehicle with all four wheels on the ground, and “dolly towing” which is towing your vehicle with two wheels on the ground and two wheels up on a device known as a “dolly”. Your vehicle was not designed to be towed with any of its wheels on the ground. If your vehicle must be towed, see “Towing Your Vehicle” earlier in this section. Towing a Trailer Your vehicle is neither designed nor intended to tow a trailer. 4-34 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Service ............................................................5-3 Accessories and Modiﬁcations ..........................5-3 California Proposition 65 Warning .....................5-3 Doing Your Own Service Work .........................5-4 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle ......................................................5-5 Fuel ................................................................5-5 Gasoline Octane ............................................5-5 Gasoline Speciﬁcations ....................................5-5 California Fuel ...............................................5-6 Additives .......................................................5-6 Fuels in Foreign Countries ...............................5-7 Filling the Tank ..............................................5-8 Filling a Portable Fuel Container .....................5-10 Checking Things Under the Hood ....................5-10 Hood Release ..............................................5-11 Engine Compartment Overview .......................5-12 Engine Oil ...................................................5-13 Engine Oil Life System ..................................5-16 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ................................5-18 Automatic Transmission Fluid .........................5-19 Manual Transmission Fluid .............................5-21 Hydraulic Clutch ...........................................5-22 Engine Coolant .............................................5-23 Radiator Pressure Cap ..................................5-26 Engine Overheating .......................................5-26 Cooling System ............................................5-29 Power Steering Fluid .....................................5-33 Windshield Washer Fluid ................................5-34 Brakes ........................................................5-35 Battery ........................................................5-38 Jump Starting ...............................................5-39 Headlamp Aiming ...........................................5-44 Bulb Replacement ..........................................5-46 Halogen Bulbs ..............................................5-46 Headlamps ..................................................5-46 Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps ..............5-48 Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps .........................................5-49 Replacement Bulbs .......................................5-50 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ..............5-51 Tires ..............................................................5-52 Tire Sidewall Labeling ...................................5-54 Tire Terminology and Deﬁnitions .....................5-56 Inﬂation - Tire Pressure .................................5-59 Tire Inspection and Rotation ...........................5-62 When It Is Time for New Tires .......................5-63 Buying New Tires .........................................5-64 Different Size Tires and Wheels ......................5-65 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ..........................5-66 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ..................5-67 Wheel Replacement ......................................5-67 5-1 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Section 5 Service and Appearance Care Tire Chains ..................................................5-69 If a Tire Goes Flat ........................................5-69 Changing a Flat Tire .....................................5-70 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ................5-71 Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire ................................................5-72 Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools ............5-77 Compact Spare Tire ......................................5-78 Appearance Care ............................................5-78 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle .................5-78 Fabric/Carpet ...............................................5-80 Leather .......................................................5-80 Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces ..................................................5-81 Care of Safety Belts ......................................5-81 Weatherstrips ...............................................5-82 Washing Your Vehicle ...................................5-82 Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses .....................5-82 Finish Care ..................................................5-82 Windshield and Wiper Blades .........................5-83 Aluminum Wheels .........................................5-83 Tires ...........................................................5-84 Sheet Metal Damage .....................................5-84 Finish Damage .............................................5-84 Underbody Maintenance ................................5-85 Chemical Paint Spotting .................................5-85 Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials ..................5-86 Vehicle Identiﬁcation ......................................5-87 Vehicle Identiﬁcation Number (VIN) .................5-87 Service Parts Identiﬁcation Label .....................5-87 Electrical System ............................................5-87 Add-On Electrical Equipment ..........................5-87 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ............................5-88 Instrument Panel Fuse Block ..........................5-88 Engine Compartment Fuse Block ....................5-90 Capacities and Speciﬁcations ..........................5-91 5-2 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Accessories and Modiﬁcations When you add non-GM accessories to your vehicle they can affect your vehicle’s performance and safety, including such things as, airbags, braking, stability, ride and handling, emissions systems, aerodynamics, durability, and electronic systems like anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control. Some of these accessories may even cause malfunction or damage not covered by warranty. GM Accessories are designed to complement and function with other systems on your vehicle. Your GM dealer can accessorize your vehicle using genuine GM Accessories. When you go to your GM dealer and ask for GM Accessories, you will know that GM-trained and supported service technicians will perform the work using genuine GM Accessories. California Proposition 65 Warning Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems (including some inside the vehicle), many ﬂuids, and some component wear by-products contain and/or emit these chemicals. 5-3 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you will want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see ServicePublicationsOrderingInformationon page7-14. Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see ServicingYour Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page1-52. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See MaintenanceRecordonpage6-15. {CAUTION: You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. • Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. • Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. English and metric fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt. 5-4 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airﬂow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Fuel Use of the recommended fuel is an important part of the proper maintenance of your vehicle. Gasoline Octane Use premium unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 91 or higher. You may also use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher, but your vehicle’s acceleration may be slightly reduced, and you may notice a slight audible knocking noise, commonly referred to as spark knock. If the octane is less than 87, you may notice a heavy knocking noise when you drive. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might damage your engine. If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. Gasoline Speciﬁcations At a minimum, gasoline should meet ASTM speciﬁcation D 4814 in the United States or CAN/CGSB-3.5 in Canada. Some gasolines may contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT). General Motors recommends against the use of gasolines containing MMT. See Additives on page5-6 for additional information. 5-5 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual California Fuel If your vehicle is certiﬁed to meet California Emissions Standards, it is designed to operate on fuels that meet California speciﬁcations. See the underhood emission control label. If this fuel is not available in states adopting California emissions standards, your vehicle will operate satisfactorily on fuels meeting federal speciﬁcations, but emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on and your vehicle may fail a smog-check test. See MalfunctionIndicatorLampon page3-28. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for diagnosis. If it is determined that the condition is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty. Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that will help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing your emission control system to work properly. In most cases, you should not have to add anything to your fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations. To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean, or if your vehicle experiences problems due to dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Also, your GM dealer has additives that will help correct and prevent most deposit-related problems. Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area. General Motors recommends that you use these gasolines if they comply with the speciﬁcations described earlier. However, E85 (85% ethanol) and other fuels containing more than 10% ethanol must not be used in vehicles that were not designed for those fuels. 5-6 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage the plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions may contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant where you buy gasoline whether the fuel contains MMT. General Motors recommends against the use of such gasolines. Fuels containing MMT can reduce the life of spark plugs and the performance of the emission control system may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp may turn on. If this occurs, return to your authorized GM dealer for service. Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to ﬁnd. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel would not be covered by your warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you will be driving. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-7 Filling the Tank {CAUTION: Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel ﬁre can cause bad injuries. To help avoid injuries to you and others, read and follow all the instructions on the pump island. Turn off your engine when you are refueling. Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, ﬂames, and smoking materials away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel pump unattended when refueling your vehicle — this is against the law in some places. Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump fuel. The tethered fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel door on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. The fuel release button is located on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. Push the button to release the fuel door. 5-8 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly counterclockwise. The fuel cap has a spring in it; if the cap is released too soon, it will spring back to the right. {CAUTION: When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page3-28. If you spill fuel and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. {CAUTION: If a ﬁre starts while you are refueling, do not remove the nozzle. Shut off the ﬂow of fuel by shutting off the pump or by notifying the station attendant. Leave the area immediately. Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overﬁll the tank and wait a few seconds after you have ﬁnished pumping before removing the nozzle. Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See Washing Your Vehicle on page5-80. Notice: If you need a new fuel cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not ﬁt properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions system. See MalfunctionIndicatorLampon page3-28. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-9 Filling a Portable Fuel Container {CAUTION: Never ﬁll a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the gasoline vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others: • Dispense gasoline only into approved containers. • Do not ﬁll a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than the ground. • Bring the ﬁll nozzle in contact with the inside of the ﬁll opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the ﬁlling is complete. • Do not smoke while pumping gasoline. Checking Things Under the Hood {CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. {CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a ﬁre. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake ﬂuid, windshield washer and other ﬂuids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine. 5-10 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Hood Release To open the hood, do the following: 1. Pull the handle with this symbol on it. It is located under the instrument panel on the driver’s side of the vehicle. 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release. 3. After you have partially lifted the hood, gas struts will automatically take over to lift and hold the hood in the fully open position. Before closing the hood, be sure all the ﬁller caps are on properly. Then pull the hood down and close it ﬁrmly. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-11 Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the engine, here is what you will see: 5-12 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual A. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine Compartment Fuse Block on page5-88. B. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See “Adding Washer Fluid” under WindshieldWasherFluid on page5-34. C. Battery. See Battery on page5-37. D. Radiator Pressure Cap (Out of View). See Radiator Pressure Cap on page5-26. E. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page5-13. F. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page5-13. G. Automatic Transmission Dipstick (If Equipped). See “Checking the Fluid Level” under Automatic Transmission Fluid on page5-19. H. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir. See PowerSteering Fluid on page5-33. I. Brake Fluid Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid” under Brakes on page5-35. J. Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Reservoir (If Equipped). See Hydraulic Clutch on page5-22. K. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See EngineAir Cleaner/Filter on page5-18. L. Engine Coolant Overﬂow Reservoir. See Engine Coolant on page5-23. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Engine Oil If the Service Engine Oil message appears on the trip computer display, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see TripComputeronpage3-33. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. Checking Engine Oil It is a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See EngineCompartmentOverviewonpage5-12 for the location of the engine oil dipstick. 1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level. 2. Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level. 5-13 When to Add Engine Oil See EngineCompartment Overviewonpage5-12 for the location of the engine oil ﬁll cap. If the oil is below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, you will need to add at least one quart/liter of oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see CapacitiesandSpeciﬁcationson page5-90. Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the cross-hatched area that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range in the cross-hatched area. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through. 5-14 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Look for two things: • GM4718M Your vehicle’s engine requires a special oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M. Oils meeting this standard may be identiﬁed as synthetic. However, not all synthetic oils will meet this GM standard. You should look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM4718M. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Notice: If you use oils that do not have the GM4718M Standard designation, you can cause engine damage not covered by your warranty. • SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. Oils meeting these requirements should also have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certiﬁed by the American Petroleum Institute (API). You should look for this on the oil container, and use only those oils that are identiﬁed as meeting GM Standard GM4718M and have the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. 5-15 Your vehicle’s engine is ﬁlled at the factory with a Mobil 1® synthetic oil, which meets all requirements for your vehicle. Substitute Engine Oil: When adding oil to maintain engine oil level, oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M may not be available. You can add substitute oil designated SAE 5W-30 with the starburst symbol at all temperatures. Substitute oil not meeting GM Standard GM4718M should not be used for an oil change. Engine Oil Additives Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard GM4718M are all you will need for good performance and engine protection. 5-16 Engine Oil Life System When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and ﬁlter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you must reset the system every time the oil is changed. When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is necessary. A Service Engine Oil message on the trip computer display will come on. See TripComputer onpage3-33. Change engine oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the oil life system may not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, the engine oil and ﬁlter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your dealer has GM-trained service people who will perform this work using genuine GM parts and reset the system. It is also important to check engine oil regularly and keep it at the proper level. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must change the oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. After changing the engine oil, reset the system by performing the following steps: How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change the engine oil and ﬁlter based on vehicle use. Anytime engine oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change your oil prior to the Service Engine Oil message being turned on, reset the system. 1. With the engine off, turn the ignition key to ON. 2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal slowly two times within ﬁve seconds. 3. Turn the key to LOCK. If the Service Engine Oil message comes back on when you start your vehicle, the engine oil life system has not reset. Repeat the procedure. What to Do with Used Oil Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products. Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the ﬁlter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of used oil, ask your dealer, a service station, or a local recycling center for help. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-17 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter See EngineCompartmentOverviewonpage5-12 for more information on the location of the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter. When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Inspect the air cleaner/ﬁlter at every oil change and replace at the ﬁrst oil change after 25,000 miles (41 500 km). See ScheduledMaintenanceonpage6-4 for more information. How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To inspect the air cleaner/ﬁlter, remove the ﬁlter from the vehicle and lightly shake the ﬁlter to release loose dust and dirt. If the ﬁlter remains caked with dirt, a new ﬁlter is required. To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter, do the following: 1. Remove the screws that hold the cover on. 2. Lift off the cover. 3. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter. 4. Put the cover back on tightly. 5-18 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual {CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/ﬁlter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop ﬂames if the engine backﬁres. If it is not there and the engine backﬁres, you could be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/ﬁlter off. Notice: If the air cleaner/ﬁlter is off, a backﬁre can cause a damaging engine ﬁre. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/ﬁlter in place when you are driving. Automatic Transmission Fluid When to Check and Change Automatic Transmission Fluid A good time to check your automatic transmission ﬂuid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change the ﬂuid and ﬁlter at the intervals listed in AdditionalRequiredServicesonpage6-6, and be sure to use the transmission ﬂuid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page6-12. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. Notice: Too much or too little ﬂuid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the ﬂuid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts, starting a ﬁre. Too little ﬂuid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission ﬂuid. Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transmission ﬂuid level if you have been driving in the following conditions: • When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). • At high speed for quite a while. • In heavy traffic — especially in hot weather. To get the right reading, the ﬂuid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93°C). 5-19 Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above 50°F (10°C). If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), drive the vehicle in DRIVE (D) until the engine temperature gage moves and then remains steady for 10 minutes. A cold ﬂuid check can be made after the vehicle has been sitting for eight hours or more with the engine off, but this is used only as a reference. Let the engine run at idle for ﬁve minutes if outside temperatures are 50°F (10°C) or more. If it is colder than 50°F (10°C), you may have to idle the engine longer. Should the ﬂuid level be low during this cold check, you must check the ﬂuid hot before adding ﬂuid. Checking the ﬂuid hot will give you a more accurate reading of the ﬂuid level. Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: 1. Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. 2. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). 3. With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range. Then, position the shift lever in PARK (P). 4. Let the engine run at idle for three minutes or more. Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: The automatic transmission dipstick is located at the rear of the engine compartment, on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See EngineCompartmentOverviewon page5-12 for more information on location. 1. Unclip the handle and remove the dipstick; wipe it clean with a clean rag or paper towel and re-insert it fully. Remove it again and read the ﬂuid level. 2. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The ﬂuid level must be in the COLD area for a cold check or in the cross-hatched HOT area for a hot check. 3. If the ﬂuid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way. Remember to always replace the dipstick and lock the handle down. How to Add Automatic Transmission Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transmission ﬂuid to use. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page6-12. Add ﬂuid only after checking the transmission ﬂuid while it is hot. A cold check is used only as a reference. If the ﬂuid level is low, add only enough of the proper ﬂuid to bring the level up to the HOT area for a hot check. 5-20 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual The level should never read over the HOT mark, so be careful not to add too much. It does not take much ﬂuid, generally less than 0.6 pints (0.3 L). Do not overﬁll. Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission ﬂuid may damage your vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by your warranty. Always use the automatic transmission ﬂuid listed in RecommendedFluidsandLubricantsonpage6-12. • After adding ﬂuid, recheck the ﬂuid level as described under “How to Check Automatic Transmission Fluid,” earlier in this section. • When the correct ﬂuid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way. Remember to always replace the dipstick and lock the handle down. • If ﬂuid has to be added often, there may be a problem or leak and you should see your dealer. Manual Transmission Fluid When to Check Manual Transmission Fluid A good time to have your manual transmission ﬂuid checked is when the engine oil is changed. However, the ﬂuid in your manual transmission does not require changing. How to Check Manual Transmission Fluid Because this operation can be difficult, you may choose to have this done at the dealership service department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading. Notice: Too much or too little ﬂuid can damage your transmission. Too much can mean that some of the ﬂuid could come out and fall on hot engine part or exhaust system parts, starting a ﬁre. Too little ﬂuid could cause the transmission to overheat. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transmission ﬂuid. Check the ﬂuid level only when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place, and the transmission is cool enough for you to rest your ﬁngers on the transmission case. Then, follow these steps: 1. Remove the reverse light switch. 2. Check that the lubricant level is up to the bottom of the switch hole. 3. If the ﬂuid level is good, install the switch and be sure it is fully seated. If the ﬂuid level is low, add more ﬂuid as described in the next steps. 5-21 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual When to Check and What to Use Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine the proper ﬂuid. See Owner ChecksandServices on page6-8 and RecommendedFluidsand Lubricantsonpage6-12. How to Add Manual Transmission Fluid Here is how to add ﬂuid. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of ﬂuid to use. See RecommendedFluidsandLubricantsonpage6-12. 1. Remove the reverse light switch. 2. Add ﬂuid at the switch hole. Add only enough ﬂuid to bring the ﬂuid level up to the bottom of the switch hole. 3. Install the reverse light switch. Be sure the switch is fully seated. Hydraulic Clutch The clutch ﬂuid level should be checked weekly. A ﬂuid loss in this system could indicate a problem. If the clutch ﬂuid requires constant ﬁlling it could indicate a leak. Have the system inspected and repaired by your dealer. Adding ﬂuid will not correct a leak. 5-22 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual How to Check and Add Fluid To check the ﬂuid level, look at the markings on the reservoir. If the ﬂuid level is between the MIN and the MAX line, the ﬂuid level is correct. If the ﬂuid level is between these marks do not remove the cap, as the ﬂuid will quickly absorb moisture. See Engine Compartment Overview on page5-12 for more information on reservoir location. If ﬂuid does need to be added, ﬁrst turn the vehicle off. Remove the cap and add the proper ﬂuid. Remember to replace the cap and clean up any spilled ﬂuid. Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is ﬁlled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in the vehicle for ﬁve years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs ﬁrst, if only DEX-COOL® extended life coolant is added. The following explains the cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If there is a problem with engine overheating or if coolant needs to be added to the radiator, see EngineOverheatingonpage5-26. A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant will: • Give freezing protection down to - 34°F (- 37°C). • Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C). • Protect against rust and corrosion. • Help keep the proper engine temperature. • Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may require changing sooner, at the ﬁrst maintenance service after each 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst. Any repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always use DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-23 What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which will not damage aluminum parts. If this coolant mixture is used, nothing else needs to be added. {CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch ﬁre and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant. Notice: If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost would not be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. 5-24 If coolant needs to be added more than four times a year, have your dealer check the cooling system. Notice: If you use extra inhibitors and/or additives in your vehicle’s cooling system, you could damage your vehicle. Use only the proper mixture of the engine coolant listed in this manual for the cooling system. See RecommendedFluidsand Lubricantsonpage6-12 for more information. Checking Coolant The coolant overﬂow reservoir is located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle. See EngineCompartmentOverviewonpage5-12 for more information on location. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the coolant overﬂow reservoir, but be careful not to spill it. Check the level with the dipstick and keep adding ﬂuid until the level is correct. {CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. When the level is correct, replace the dipstick then push down on the coolant reservoir cap while turning it clockwise until it stops, to lock it into position. 5-25 The coolant level should be checked at each fuel ﬁll, by looking at the dipstick in the coolant overﬂow reservoir. To remove the dipstick, push down on the coolant reservoir cap while turning it counterclockwise. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the bottom arrow on the dipstick. After the vehicle has been driven and the engine is at normal operating temperature, the level should be somewhere between the two arrows on the dipstick. If the coolant level is correct, replace the dipstick then push down on the coolant reservoir cap while turning it clockwise until it stops, to lock it into position. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual If the coolant overﬂow reservoir is completely empty, add coolant to the radiator. See EngineOverheatingon page5-26. {CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — when the engine and radiator are hot. Occasionally check the coolant in the radiator. For information on how to add coolant to the radiator, see Cooling System on page5-29. Radiator Pressure Cap Notice: If the pressure cap is not tightly installed, coolant loss and possible engine damage may occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly secured. See EngineCompartmentOverviewonpage5-12 for information on location. Engine Overheating Immediate action is required if your engine overheats. This is indicated by the coolant temperature gage and the Engine Temp Hot message on the trip computer display. See EngineCoolantTemperatureGageon page3-28 and TripComputeronpage3-33 for more information. 5-26 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine {CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood. If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch ﬁre. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool. Notice: If your engine catches ﬁre because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by your warranty. If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine An overheat warning, along with an Engine Temp Hot message can indicate a serious problem. If you get an engine overheat warning, but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: • Climb a long hill on a hot day. • Stop after high-speed driving. • Idle for long periods in traffic. If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in NEUTRAL (N) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, apply the parking brake, shift to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) and let the engine idle while you get out and check that the cooling fan is working. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-27 2. If the fan is working and the temperature gage needle has not returned to its normal position within a few minutes, stop the engine and remove the ignition key. Look for leaks at the radiator hoses and connections, heater hoses and connections, radiator, and water pump. Be careful when checking these areas as they will probably still be hot. If you ﬁnd a major leak or other problems that may have caused the engine to overheat, do not run the engine until these problems have been corrected. If you do not ﬁnd anything wrong, you should check the engine coolant level. See EngineCoolanton page5-23. You should also check the air intake area below the front bumper to ensure that it is clear of leaves and road grime. 3. Turn off your air conditioning and turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the windows as necessary. If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues and you have not stopped, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there is still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for three minutes while you are parked. If you still have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away. 5-28 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Cooling System When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what you will see: {CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If you can hear the coolant inside the coolant overﬂow reservoir bubbling or boiling, do not do anything else until it cools down. The vehicle should be parked on a level surface. A. Radiator Pressure Cap (Out of View) B. Electric Engine Cooling Fan C. Engine Coolant Overﬂow Reservoir 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-29 The coolant level should be at or above the bottom arrow on the dipstick. If it is not, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system. {CAUTION: Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine ﬁre, and you could be burned. Get any leak ﬁxed before you drive the vehicle. If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine cooling fan is running. If the engine is overheating, the fan should be running. If it is not, your vehicle needs service. Notice: If you operate the engine without coolant or fail to maintain the cooling system properly, you could damage the engine. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always follow the maintenance schedule in this manual for maintaining your cooling system. See Cooling Systemonpage5-29 for more information. Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® may cause premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst. Any repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always use DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle. 5-30 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Overﬂow Reservoir {CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. Your vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, your engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. Your engine could catch ﬁre and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant. If you have not found a problem yet, check the coolant level on the coolant overﬂow reservoir dipstick. If the coolant level is not at or above the bottom arrow on the dipstick, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant at the coolant overﬂow reservoir. See EngineCoolantonpage5-23 for more information. Notice: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. {CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-31 To add coolant to the overﬂow reservoir, do the following: 1. Remove the coolant overﬂow reservoir cap when the cooling system is no longer hot. {CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap. See your dealer, if necessary. 2. Fill the coolant overﬂow reservoir with the proper mixture, until it reaches the bottom arrow on the dipstick. 3. Replace the dipstick, then press down on the coolant reservoir cap while turning it clockwise until it stops, to lock it into position. 5-32 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Power Steering Fluid The power steering ﬂuid reservoir is located toward the front of the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the vehicle. See EngineCompartmentOverviewon page5-12 for reservoir location. When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering ﬂuid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A ﬂuid loss in this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual How to Check Power Steering Fluid The ﬂuid level should be checked after the vehicle has been driven for at least 20 minutes, so that the ﬂuid is warm. A cold level check can be done after the engine has been off for at least ﬁve hours. However, the hot level check is recommended. The ﬂuid level can be viewed through the reservoir. The level markings are next to the ﬂuid window. When the ﬂuid is cold, the level should be between the COLD MIN (Minimum) and MAX (Maximum) marks. When the vehicle has been driven for at least 20 minutes and the ﬂuid is hot, the level should be between the HOT MIN and MAX marks. If ﬂuid must be added, turn the cap counterclockwise to the stop; then the cap can be lifted off. Do not overﬁll the reservoir and remember to replace the cap tightly when you are ﬁnished and clean up any spilled ﬂuid. If you often need to add ﬂuid, you should see your dealer. What to Use To determine what kind of ﬂuid to use, see RecommendedFluidsandLubricantsonpage6-12. Always use the proper ﬂuid. Failure to use the proper ﬂuid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. 5-33 Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer ﬂuid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a ﬂuid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer ﬂuid until the tank is full. See Engine CompartmentOverviewon page5-12 for reservoir location. Notice: • When using concentrated washer ﬂuid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. • Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer ﬂuid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer ﬂuid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water does not clean as well as washer ﬂuid. • Fill your washer ﬂuid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. • Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint. 5-34 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Brakes Brake Fluid Your brake master cylinder reservoir is ﬁlled with DOT-4 brake ﬂuid. See EngineCompartment Overviewonpage5-12 for the location of the reservoir. There are only two reasons why the brake ﬂuid level in the reservoir might go down. The ﬁrst is that the brake ﬂuid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the ﬂuid level goes back up. The other reason is that ﬂuid is leaking out of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system ﬁxed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes will not work well, or will not work at all. So, it is not a good idea to top off your brake ﬂuid. Adding brake ﬂuid will not correct a leak. If you add ﬂuid when your linings are worn, then you will have too much ﬂuid when you get new brake linings. You should add or remove brake ﬂuid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual {CAUTION: If you have too much brake ﬂuid, it can spill on the engine. The ﬂuid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake ﬂuid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. See “Checking Brake Fluid” in this section. When your brake ﬂuid falls to a low level, your brake warning light will come on. See BrakeSystemWarning Light on page3-27. Checking Brake Fluid You can check the brake ﬂuid without taking off the cap. Look at the brake ﬂuid reservoir. The ﬂuid level should be between the MIN and MAX marks on the reservoir. If it is not, have your brake system checked to see if there is a leak. After work is done on the brake hydraulic system, make sure the level is between the MIN and MAX marks. 5-35 What to Add When you do need brake ﬂuid, use only DOT-4 brake ﬂuid. Use new brake ﬂuid from a sealed container only. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page6-12. Always clean the brake ﬂuid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir. {CAUTION: With the wrong kind of ﬂuid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even work at all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake ﬂuid. Notice: • Using the wrong ﬂuid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of ﬂuid. 5-36 • If you spill brake ﬂuid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint ﬁnish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake ﬂuid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See Washing YourVehicleonpage5-80. Brake Wear Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes. Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are ﬁrst applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to GM torque speciﬁcations. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Brake Adjustment Every time you make a moderate brake stop, your disc brakes adjust for wear. If you rarely make a moderate or heavier stop, then your brakes might not adjust correctly. If you drive in that way, then — very carefully — make a few moderate brake stops about every 1,000 miles (1 600 km), so your brakes will adjust properly. Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system — for example, when your brake linings wear down and you need new ones put in — be sure you get new approved GM replacement parts. If you do not, your brakes may no longer work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between your front and rear brakes can change — for the worse. The braking performance you have come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Battery Your vehicle has a maintenance free battery. When it is time for a new battery, get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. We recommend an ACDelco® replacement battery. See EngineCompartmentOverviewonpage5-12 for battery location. Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Vehicle Storage If you are not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days or more, remove the black, negative (- ) cable from the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down. {CAUTION: Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See JumpStartingon page5-38 for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt. 5-37 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. Be sure to use the following steps to do it safely. {CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: • They contain acid that can burn you. • They contain gas that can explode • They contain enough electricity to or ignite. burn you. If you do not follow these steps exactly, some or all of these things can hurt you. Notice: Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that would not be covered by your warranty. Trying to start your vehicle by pushing or pulling it will not work, and it could damage your vehicle. 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. Remove any battery covers. Notice: If the other vehicle’s system is not a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. Only use vehicles with 12-volt systems with negative grounds to jump start your vehicle. 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles are not touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you do not want. You would not be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake ﬁrmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transmission in PARK (P) or a manual transmission in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. 5-38 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Notice: If you leave your radio or other accessories on during the jump starting procedure, they could be damaged. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always turn off your radio and other accessories when jump starting your vehicle. 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter. Turn off the radio and all lamps that are not needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save the radio! 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (- ) terminal locations on each vehicle. See EngineCompartmentOverview onpage5-12 for more information on location. {CAUTION: An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. {CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a ﬂashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You do not need to add water to the battery installed in your new vehicle. But if a battery has ﬁller caps, be sure the right amount of ﬂuid is there. If it is low, add water to take care of that ﬁrst. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present. Battery ﬂuid contains acid that can burn you. Do not get it on you. If you accidentally get it in your eyes or on your skin, ﬂush the place with water and get medical help immediately. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-39 {CAUTION: Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you badly. Keep your hands away from moving parts once the engine is running. 5. Check that the jumper cables do not have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. Negative (- ) will go to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (- ) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not connect positive (+) to negative (- ) or you will get a short that would damage the battery and maybe other parts too. And do not connect the negative (- ) cable to the negative (- ) terminal on the dead battery because this can cause sparks. 6. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 7. Do not let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 5-40 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 9. Connect the other end of the negative (- ) cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, and the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less. 10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while. Notice: If the jumper cables are removed too quickly after starting the vehicle with the dead battery, a momentary spike in voltage may occur, damaging electrical components. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always allow both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure to run for at least one minute after starting the vehicle with the dead battery, before removing the jumper cables. 11. Try to start the vehicle that had the dead battery. If it will not start after a few tries, it probably needs service. If the vehicle does start, be sure to allow both vehicles to run for at least one minute before removing the jumper cables. 8. Now connect the black negative (- ) cable to the negative (- ) terminal of the good battery. Use a remote negative (- ) terminal if the vehicle has one. Do not let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative (- ) cable doesnot go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative (- ) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-41 Notice: If the jumper cables are connected or removed in the wrong order, electrical shorting may occur and damage the vehicle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Always connect and remove the jumper cables in the correct order, making sure that the cables do not touch each other or other metal. To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1. Disconnect the black negative (- ) cable from the vehicle that had the dead battery. 2. Disconnect the black negative (- ) cable from the vehicle with the good battery. 3. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the vehicle with the good battery. 4. Disconnect the red positive (+) cable from the other vehicle. 5. Replace any battery covers. Jumper Cable Removal A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery 5-42 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Headlamp Aiming The vehicle has a visual optical headlamp aiming system. The aim has been preset at the factory and should need no further adjustment However, if the vehicle is damaged in an accident, the headlamp aim may be affected and adjustment may be necessary. If oncoming vehicles ﬂash their high beams at you, this may also mean the vertical aim needs to be adjusted. It is recommended that the vehicle is taken to your dealer for service if the headlamps need to be re-aimed. It is possible however, to re-aim the headlamps as described in the following procedure. The vehicle should be properly prepared as follows: • The vehicle should be placed so the headlamps are 15 ft. (4.6 m) from a light colored wall or other ﬂat surface. • The vehicle must have all four tires on a perfectly level surface which is level all the way to the wall or other ﬂat surface. • The vehicle should be placed so it is perpendicular to the wall or other ﬂat surface. • The vehicle should not have any snow, ice, or mud on it. • The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being performed. • The vehicle should be normally loaded with a full tank of fuel and one person or 160 lbs (75 kg) sitting on the driver’s seat. • Tires should be properly inﬂated. • The spare tire is in its original location in the vehicle. Headlamp aiming is done with the vehicle’s low-beam headlamps. The high-beam headlamps will be correctly aimed if the low-beam headlamps are aimed properly. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-43 To adjust the vertical aim on the headlamps, do the following: 1. Open the hood. See HoodReleaseonpage5-11 for more information. Notice: Do not cover a headlamp to improve beam cut-off when aiming. Covering a headlamp may cause excessive heat build-up which may cause damage to the headlamp. 2. Find the aim dot on the lens of the low-beam headlamp. 3. Measure the distance from the ground to the aim dot on the low-beam headlamp. Record the distance. 4. At the wall or other ﬂat surface, measure from the ground upward the recorded distance from Step 2 and mark it. 5. Draw or tape a horizontal line the width of the vehicle at the wall or other ﬂat surface where it was marked it Step 4. 5-44 6. Turn on the low-beam headlamps and place a piece of cardboard or equivalent in front of the headlamp not being aimed. This should allow only the beam of light from the headlamp being aimed to be seen on the ﬂat surface. 7. Locate the vertical headlamp aiming screws, which are under the hood near each headlamp assembly. The adjustment screw can be turned with a No. 2 Phillips head screwdriver. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page5-49. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. Halogen Bulbs {CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. Headlamps Driver’s Side To replace the driver’s side headlamp bulbs, ﬁrst do the following: 1. Open the hood. See HoodReleaseonpage5-11 for more information. 5-45 Passenger’s Side Shown 8. Turn the vertical aiming screw (A) until the headlamp beam is aimed to the horizontal tape line. If you turn it clockwise, it will raise the beam and if you turn it counterclockwise, it will lower the beam. The top edge of the cut-off should be positioned at the bottom edge of the horizontal tape line. 9. Repeat Steps 7 and 8 for the opposite headlamp. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Passenger’s Side To replace the passenger’s side headlamp bulbs, ﬁrst do the following: 1. Open the hood. See HoodReleaseonpage5-11 for more information. 2. Disconnectthe battery clamp. 3. Remove the battery retaining plate and slide the battery out of the way toward the rear of the vehicle. 4. Disconnect the battery terminals. If your vehicle is equipped with a larger battery, it must be completely removed from the vehicle. 2. Remove the ﬁve screws in the radiator cover. 3. Unclip and remove the radiator cover. A hole is provided in the air intake duct so that the bulbs can be accessed for replacement. After following the procedure to replace the bulbs, clip the radiator cover to the radiator fan shroud and reinstall the ﬁve screws. After following the procedure to replace the bulbs, reinstall and reconnect the battery. 1. Access the bulbs by following the previous instructions for either the driver’s side or passenger’s side of the vehicle. 2. Turn the dust caps counterclockwise and remove from the rear of the headlamp assembly to gain access to the bulb. 5-46 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 3. Remove the wiring harness connector by squeezing the two tabs on the connector and pulling the connector down. 4. Remove the old bulb by twisting the bulb counterclockwise. 5. Install the new bulb. Take care not to touch the bulb. 6. Reverse the steps to reinstall the headlamp assembly. Front Turn Signal and Parking Lamps To replace this bulb, do the following: 1. Open the hood. See HoodReleaseonpage5-11 for more information. 2. Follow the removal procedure for either the driver’s side or passenger’s side of the vehicle to access the bulbs. See Headlampsonpage5-45 for more information. 3. Disconnect the wiring harness connector from the bulb assembly. 4. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and remove. 5. Lightly press the bulb and twist counterclockwise out of the bulb socket. 6. Insert the new bulb into the bulb socket. 7. Reverse the steps to reinstall the lamp assemblies. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-47 Taillamps, Turn Signal, Stoplamps and Back-up Lamps A. Stoplamp/Taillamp B. Back-up Lamp C. Turn Signal Lamp To replace one of these bulbs, do the following: 1. Open the trunk. See Trunkonpage2-9 for more information. 2. Remove the two screws that attach the taillamp assembly to the vehicle. 3. Pull the assembly sideways out from the panel so that the locating pegs on the side of the lamp assembly snap free from the clips. 5-48 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 4. Turn the appropriate bulb socket counterclockwise while holding the assembly, to release it from the housing. 5. Remove the bulb from the bulb socket by pushing it in and turning it counterclockwise. 6. Install the new bulb into the bulb socket by pushing it into the socket and turning it clockwise. 7. Install the bulb socket into the taillamp housing, ensuring that the socket locks securely into place. 8. Reinstall the lamp assembly so that the clips are seated correctly. Fit the housing to the body, so that the locating pegs snap into the clips. 9. Reinstall and tighten the screws to secure. Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamp Back-up Lamp Front Turn Signal/Parking Lamp Headlamps High-Beam Low-Beam Rear Turn Signal Lamp Stoplamp/Taillamp Bulb Number 1156 1157NA H9 H11LL 1156NA 1157 For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your dealer. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual 5-49 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear and cracking. See ScheduledMaintenanceonpage6-4 for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, see NormalMaintenanceReplacementPartson page6-14. To replace the windshield wiper blade assembly do the following: 1. Lift the wiper arm away from the windshield. 2. Push the release lever (B) to disengage the hook and push the wiper arm (A) out of the blade (C). 3. Push the new wiper blade securely on the wiper arm until you hear the release lever click into place. 5-50 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Tires Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet included with your vehicle’s Owner Manual. {CAUTION: • Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous. • Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See LoadingYour Vehicleonpage4-29. • Underinﬂated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure should be checked when your tires are cold. CAUTION: (Continued) 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual CAUTION: (Continued) • Overinﬂated tires are more likely to be cut, punctured, or broken by a sudden impact — such as when you hit a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. • Worn, old tires can cause accidents. If your tread is badly worn, or if your tires have been damaged, replace them. See Inﬂation-TirePressureonpage5-58 for inﬂation pressure adjustment for high speed driving. Notice: If your vehicle has low-proﬁle tires, they are more susceptible to damage from road hazards or curb impact than standard proﬁle tires. Tire and/or wheel assembly damage can occur when coming into contact with road hazards like, potholes, or sharp edged objects, or when sliding into a curb. Your GM warranty does not cover this type of damage. Keep tires set to the correct inﬂation pressure and, when possible avoid contact with curbs, potholes, and other road hazards. 5-51 Winter Tires If you expect to drive on snow or ice covered roads often, you may want to get winter tires for your vehicle. High performance tires, like the original equipment tires installed on your vehicle, are designed for very responsive driving on wet or dry pavement and may not offer the traction you would like or the same level of performance as winter tires on snow or ice covered roads. Winter tires, in general, are designed for increased traction on snow and ice covered roads. With winter tires, there may be decreased dry road traction, increased road noise, and shorter tire tread life. After switching to winter tires, be alert for changes in vehicle handling and braking. See your dealer for details regarding winter tire availability and proper tire selection. Also, see Buying New Tires on page5-63 If you choose to use winter tires: • Use tires of the same brand and tread type on all four wheel positions. • Use only radial ply tires of the same size as your original equipment tires. Winter tires with the same speed rating as your original equipment tires may not be available for H, V, W, Y, and ZR speed rated tires. If you choose winter tires with a lower speed rating, never exceed the tire’s speed capability. 5-52 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual Tire Sidewall Labeling Useful information about a tire is molded into its sidewall. The examples below show a typical passenger vehicle tire and a compact spare tire sidewall. Passenger (P-Metric) Tire Example (A) Tire Size: The tire size is a combination of letters and numbers used to deﬁne a particular tire’s width, height, aspect ratio, construction type, and service description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this section for more detail. 2006-PontiacGTOOwnerManual (B) TPC Spec (Tire Performance Criteria Speciﬁcation): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s speciﬁc tire performance criteria have a TPC speciﬁcation code molded onto the sidewall. GM’s TPC speciﬁcations meet or exceed all federal safety guidelines. (C) DOT (Department of Transportation): The Department of Transportation (DOT) code indicates that the tire is in compliance with the U.S. Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. (D) Tire Identiﬁcation Number (TIN): The letters and numbers following DOT (Department of Transportation) code is the Tire Identiﬁcation Number (TIN). The TIN shows the manufacturer and plant code, tire size, and date the tire was manufactured. The TIN is molded onto both sides of the tire, although only one side may have the date of manufacture. (E) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (F) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three

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2006 Pontiac GTO Owners Manual