1996 Pontiac Sunfire Owner's Manual
1996 Pontiac Sunfire Manual
1996 Pontiac Sunfire manual content summary:
- 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 1
"_._ - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 2
under different conditions. This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc. ... Service and Appearance Care Maintenanceschedule Here the manual tells you how to keep your Pontiac running properly and looking good. ... This - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 3
We support voluntary technician certification, GENERAL MOTORS, GM and the GM Emblem, PONTIAC and the PONTIAC Emblem and the name SUNFIRE are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to m a k e - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 4
will help you learn about the €eaturesand controls foryour vehicle. In this manual, you'll find that pictures and words work together to explain things Index A good place tolook for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It's an alphabetical list of all that's in the manual, and - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 5
can damage your vehicle.Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different : These - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 6
are used on warning and indicator lights: Here are some other symbols you may see: ENGINE COOLANT TEMP TURN SIGNALS BATTERY CHARGING SYSTEM WINDSHIELD DEFROSTER DOOR LOCK UNLOCK k -t- FUSE -%J- F l (@) LIGHTER FASTEN SEAT BELTS HORN BRAKE k3 b V +' COOLANT AVOID SPARKS OR FLAMES - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 7
NOTES - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 8
not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seats , and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place. 1-1 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 9
Slide the seatto where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place. Manual Lumbar Support (Option) The manual lumbar support control is located at the front of the driver's seat, toward the right. Turn the knob clockwise or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 10
vehicle is in motion can dangerous. Even if you buckle be up, your safety belts can't do their when job you're reclined like this. do The shoulder belt can't its job because it won't be against your body. Instead, it will be in front of you. In a crash you could go into - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 11
the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. Seatback Latches (2-Door Models) To fold a frontseat forward, lift the seatback latch. When you return thes'eatbackto its original position, the seatback will lock. 1-4 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 12
Easy Entry Seat (2-Door Models) t Rear SeatsFording the Rear Seat A CAUTION: If an easy entry right frontseat isn't locked, it can move. In a sudden stop or crash, the person - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 13
: They're for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. And it explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or air bag system. Your vehiclehas a light that comes on as a reminder to buckle - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 14
Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. Put someone on it. Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on wheels. 4 1-7 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 15
I Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. The person keepsgoing until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ... 1-8 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 16
or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That's why safety belts make such good sense. 1-9 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 17
systems only; so they work with safety belts -- not instead of them. Every air bag system ever offeredfor sale has required the use of safety belts. Even if you're in a vehicle that has air -- you and your passengers can behurt. Being a good driver doesn't protect you from things beyond your control - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 18
for smaller children and babies. If a child willriding in be your Pontiac, see the of this manual called part "Children." Follow those rules everyone's protection. for First, you'll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We'll start withthe driver position. Driver Position This - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 19
it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle the belt. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn't long enough,see "Safety Belt Extender" at the end of this section. 4. Push the latch plate into thebuckle until it - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 20
you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. The shoulder the belt should go over the shoulder and across chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stopor - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 21
it down, squeeze the releasebutton and move the adjuster to the desired position. You can movethe adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide. After you move the adjusterto where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release button to make sure it has locked - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 22
with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit againstyour body. - -A A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearly as much protection this way - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 23
: You can be seriously injured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this. Ina crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen.The belt forces would be there, not the pelvic bones. This at could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 24
wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously injured you wear the if shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, whichwould kLa-tzzrsethe L*iTCe o head and neck inbq. f Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren't as strong as shoulder - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 25
wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn't have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly,or ask your dealer to fix it. A: The belt is twisted across the body. 1-18 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 26
Pontiac has two air bags -- one air bag for the driver and another airbag for the right front passenger. Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system: A CAUTION: You can be severely injured r killed in a crash if o you aren't wearing your safety belt even if you have an air - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 27
wear your safety belt, even as with an airbag. The driver should sit far maintaining control back as possible while still of the vehicle. AIR There is an air bag readi1?ess light o ,the r instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag's electrical system for malfunctions - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 28
How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger's air bagis in the instrument panel on the passenger's side. Where is the air bag? The driver's air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. 1-21 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 29
as a parked car, thethreshold level will be higher. The air bag is not system triggers a chemical reactionof the sodium azide sealed in the inflator. The reactionproduces nitrogen gas, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the airbag modules packed - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 30
they inflate, you'll need some new parts foryour air bag system. If you don't get them, the air bag system won't be there to help protect you in another crash. A new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts. The service manual for your vehicle covers the need to replaceother - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 31
are parts of the air bag system in severalplaces around your vehicle. You don't want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicle. Your Pontiac dealer and the Sunfire ServiceManual have information about servicing your vehicle and the airbag system. To purchase a service manual - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 32
buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren't safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 33
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions n U Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here's how towear one properly. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don't letit get twisted. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. 1-26 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 34
" at theend of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 35
apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries. Theshoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These partsof the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safetybelt locks if there's a sudden stopor a crash. I A CAUTION: You can be - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 36
restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt,the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. Thew is one guide for each wtside passenger psskim ill the rear seat. To provide added safety belt comfort for children whohave outgrown child restraints and for smaller - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 37
elastic cord out from between the edge of the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip. 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over thebelt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 38
that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. T k elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top. 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as d e s € ~ k in "Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions" d earlier in this section. Make sure that shoulder the belt crosses the shoulder - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 39
upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotatethe guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed. Lap Belt Center Passenger Position When you sit inthe center seating position, have a you - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 40
restrained in a childor infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint say whether it is will belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. ~ Buckle, position andrelease it the same wayas the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn't long enough, see "Safety Belt - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 41
CAUTION: (Continued) I ' 4 P a heavy you can't hold it. For example, in crash a t only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-1b. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly becomea 2404b. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would almost impossible be to hold. an Secure the baby in infant restraint. A CAUTION: Never hold a - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 42
instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints use the belt system backof a rear-facing child restraint would very close to be the inflating air bag. Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in the rear seat. You - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 43
do it. For cars first sold in Canada, child restraints with a top strap must be anchored according to Canadian law. Your dealer can obtain the hardware kitand install it for you, OF you may installit yourself using the instructions provided in the kit. Use the tether hardware kit available from the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 44
a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position 'D You'll be using thelap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 2. Secure the child in the child restraint as the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 45
the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety beltquickly if you ever had to. 5. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. 6. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 46
You'll be using the lap belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1 . Make the belt aslong as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. 3. Secure the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 47
child restraint To remove thechild restraint, justunbuckle the vehicle's safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger belt quickly if you ever had to. 6. To tighten the belt, pull its free while you push end down on thechild restraint. ff Your vehicle has a right front passenger air - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 48
lap-shoulder belt. See theearlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, to adjust the belt if needed. If the shoulder belt goes in frontof the child's face or neck, put it behind the childrestraint. instructions say. 4. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 49
sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 6. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. 7. Push,and pullthe child restraint in different directions to be sure it is - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 50
provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. Children who aren't buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren't buckled up can strike other people who are. Children who - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 51
of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child's shoulder, so that in a crash the child's upper body would have the restraint that belts provide. If the child is sitting in a rear seat outside position, see "Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides" in the Index. If the child is so - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 52
: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in seat that has a a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind way, in the child. If the child wears the belt in this a crash the child might slide under the The belt. belt's force would then be applied right on the child's abdomen. That could cause - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 53
used at if the time of the collision. If an air bag inflates, you'll need to replace air bag system parts. See the part on the air bag system earlier in this section. Checking Your Restraint Systems Now and then, make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 54
many standard and optional features on your Pontiac, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem. Keys A CAUTION: Leaving youngchildren in - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 55
~ ~ One key is used for the ignition, the doors and all otherlocks. NOTICE: Your Pontiac has a number of new features that can help prevent theft. But you can have a lot of trouble getting into your vehicle if you ever lock your keys inside. You may even have to damage your vehicle to get in. So - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 56
from the outside. You can also use the optional Remote Keyless Entry system to lock and unlock your vehicle. A CAUTION: Unlocked doors canbe dangerous. Passengers especially children can easily open the doors and out. When a door is fall locked, the inside handle won't open it. Outsiders can easily - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 57
or front passenger C k m iszk switch. To unlock the door, pull the locking lever backward. Push the lowerportion of the switch to lock your doors. Push the upperportion of the switchto unlock your doors. The lever on each rear door works only that door's lock. It won't lock (or unlock) all of the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 58
Rear Door Security Lock (4-DOor Models) Your Pontiac is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear dooh of your car from the inside. If you don't cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ridein the rear won't be able to open the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 59
intexference received, including interference thzt may cause undesired operation. Should interference to this system occur, try this: Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary. See the instructions on batfey replacement. The trunk will unlock anytime when the openedtrunk symbol remote - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 60
works, it's probably time to change the batteries. Replacing the Batteries in the Remote Keyless Entry System Transmitter 1. Pop batteries. Use two Duracell@batteries, type DL-2016, or equivalent. 4. Put the two halves back together. Make sure the cover is on tightly, so water won't get in. 5. Check - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 61
. If you must drive with the trunkopen orif lid electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid: Make sure all windows are shut. Turn the fan on your heating or cooling system *u is highest speed with the setting 4 on any airflow selection - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 62
vehicle may need service. At this time, you mayalso want to check the fuses (see "Fuses and Circuit Breakers" in the Index). Seeyour Pontiac dealerfor service. If the THEFT SYSTEM light comes on while the engine is running, a problem has been detected and the system may need service. See your dealer - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 63
-in guideline every time you get new brake linings. 0 Don't tow a trailer during break-in. See "Towing a Trailer'' inthe Index for more information. Ignition Switch C -- -- With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five position. ACCESSORY (A): An on position - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 64
release the switch. The switch stays in the RUN position when the engine is running. But even when the engine isnot running, you can use RUN to operate your electrical power accessories, and to display some instrument panel warning lights. NOTICE: If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can't turn - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 65
out. r ~~ NOTICE: ~~ Don't try to shift to PARK (P) if your Pontiac is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. Manual transaxle Starting Your Engine Engines start differently. The 8th digit of your Vehicle Identification Number - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 66
START for longer than 15 seconds a t a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. NOTICE: Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical way parts or accessories, you could change the the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 67
you dan't, your engine might not perform properly. I you ever have to have f your vehicle towed, see to the partof this manual th,at tells how do it without damagingyour vehicle. See "Towing Your Vehicle" in the Index. 2. If it doesn't start right away, and if the weather is very cold (below -20 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 68
Coolant Heater (Option) 2 4 (Code T) Engine .L 2 2 (Code 4) Engine .L In very cold weather, 0 "F (- 18 C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You'll get easier starting and better fuel economy during enginewarm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 69
the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. your Pontiac dealer in the area where you'llbe parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advicefor that particular area. Automatic Transaxle Operation Your Pontiac may - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 70
of your vehicle if the get ski€% v w is m rwRy in BARK (Fj i a t k k w parking brake firmlyset. Your vehicle can roll. Don't leave your vehicle when the engine is running unlessyou have to. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. be sure - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 71
Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) range before starting the engine. Your Pontiac has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition key is in the RUN position. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 72
overheat and damage the transaxle. Use PARK (P) to hold your your brakes or shift into vehicle in position ona hill. NOTICE: Don't drive in damage y w r engine. Forward Gears (4-Speed) AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): This position is for normal driving with the four-speed automatic transaxle. If you - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 73
lower fuel economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE(D). Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) instead of AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D): 0 FIRST 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 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 74
Manual Transaxle ' This is your shift pattern. Here's how to operate your transaxle: FIRST (1): Press the clutch pedaland shift into FIRST (1). Then, slowly let up onthe clutch pedal as you press the accelerator pedal. You can shift into FIRST (1) when you're going less than 20 mph (32 km/h). If - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 75
brake pedal. Just before the vehicle stops, press the clutch pedal and the brake engine. REVERSE (R): To back up, press down the clutch pedal and shift into REVERSE (R). Let up on the clutch the parking brake, for parking your vehicle. If your speed drops below 20 mph (32 km/h), or if the engine is - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 76
Light (Manual Transaxle) Parking Brake SHIFT ii If you have a manual transaxle, you have a SHIFT light. This light will show you whento shift to the nexthigher gear for best fuel economy. When this light comes on, you can shift to the next higher gear if weather, road and traffic conditions - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 77
on, the brake system warning light will come on. To release the parkingbrake, hold the brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake lever upuntil you can pressthe release button. Hold the release button in as you move the brake lever all the way down. Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Models - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 78
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transaxle Models Only) A CAUTION:, I 2. Move the shift be the engine running.Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shiftlever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly And, if you set. leave the vehicle with the engine running, - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 79
vehicle, put your manual transaxle in REVERSE (R) and firmly apply the parking brake. If you are parking ona hill, or if your vehicle is quipped to tow a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle) Your Pontiac hasa brake-transaxle shift interlock - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 80
Exhaust A CAUTION: L i 1 /r\ CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch exhaust hot parts under yourvehicle and ignite. Don't park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can't see or smell. It - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 81
Your Engine WhileYou're Parked (Automatic Transaxle) It's better not to parkwith the enginerunning. But if you ever have to, here are some thingsto know. ~~~ ~~ ~ A CAUTION: It canbe dangerous to get out your vehicle if of the shift lever not fulIy in PARK (P) with the is parking brake firmly - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 82
On a vehicle with manual windows, use the window crank to open and close each window. Power Windows (Option) The driver's window switch has an auto-down feature. The driver's window can be opened to the desired amount by pressing the rear of the switch tothe first detent. For the auto-down feature - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 83
A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raiseit to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit md enter the vehicle. T tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the o lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, : - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 84
To signal a turn,move the leverall the way up or down. signal a turn, check fuse (see "Fuses and Circuit the When theturn is fashed, the lever will return automatically. Breakers" in the Index) and for burned-out bulbs. An arrow on the instrument Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer panel will flash in - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 85
on, then release the leverto turn them off. Windshield Wipers For fixeddelay wiper cycles, move the wiper switch to DELAY for wiper cycles witha fixed time delay between them. For steady wiper cycles, move the wiper stalk up to either 1 or 2, depending on the wiper speedyou want. To turn wipers - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 86
the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes.This can bevery useful in light rain or snow. To wash your windshield, pull the stalk with the wiper symbol on it toward you one time.The wipers will clear the window and then either stop or return to your preset speed - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 87
Driving without washer fluid is dangerous. A bad mud splash can block your vision. You could collide with another vehicle. Check your washer fluid often. Cruise Control (Option) 1 CAUTION: ~~ ~~ ~ I I In freezing weather, don't use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 88
When you apply your brakes, or the clutch pedal, the cruise control shutsoff. Setting Cruise Control I A CAUTION: Cruise control can be dangerous where you can't drive safely at a steady speed. So, don't use - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 89
the lever and release it. 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. Suppose you set your cruise controlat a desired speed and then you apply the brake or clutch pedal. This, of course, shutsoff the cruise control.But you don't need to resetit. Once you're going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 90
second, the vehicle will keep going faster until you release the switch or apply the brake or clutch pedal. You could be startled and even lose con&d.So unless y u wmf f very small amounts, press the button for less than half a second.Each time you do this, you'llgo about 1 mph (1.6 km/h) slower. 0 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 91
hills. Lamps CL-'4.1ij:. Ending Cruise Control There are several ways to turn off the cruise control: Step lightly on the brake pedal, or push the clutch pedal, if you have a manual transaxle, OR Move the cruise switch to OFF. Erasing Cruise Speed Memory When you turn off the cruise control - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 92
headlamp switch is OFF, the parking brake is released and 0 . 0 0 Headlamps Sidemarker Lamps . Parking Lamps ., ... - ... the transaxle is not in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) on models with an automatic transaxle only. This indicator light onyour instrument panel comeson Taillamps Instrument Panel - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 93
Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity Control To idle y w r v& & i parking brake. with the DRL off, set &e prking b&e. The DRL will slay off until you should turn on the regular headlamp system when you need it. You can brighten or dimthe instrument panel lights by turning the dial up or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 94
, or when the ignition is turned on after all of the doors have been closed. If the ignitionhas been off for less than four n seconds beforefading off. These lamps will also go on when you press the DOOR or UNLOCK button on the optional Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. These lamps arelocated on the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 95
be activated when any door is left open. If your vehicle isleft with the ignition off for over 24 days, the battery power to the clock and audio system will turn off to reduce the battery drain. When the ignition is turned on again, battery power will be resupplied. Under these conditions it will be - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 96
Manual Remote Control Mirror - Power Remote Control Mirror (Option) T k l-nin-arciir&al i s located on the driver's door. Rotate the control clockwise or the driver's side outside mirror with the control lever on the driver's door. To adjust your passenger's side mirror, sit in the driver's seat - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 97
(like other vehicles) look farther away than they really are. If you cut too sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicleon your right. Check your inside mirror orglance over your shoulder before changing lanes. To open the center console,press the latch button and lift the lid back. To - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 98
Center Console Cupholders There isa cupholder built into the front of the center console for your convenience. To access it,remove the ashtray. There are also cupholders for the rear seat passengers in the back of the console. Convenience Net (Option) Grab the cupholder cover from both sides and - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 99
Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter I To use the lighter, push it in ' all the way and letgo. When it's ready, it willpop back out by itself. ~ To clean the center console ashtray, remove the entire ashtray and empty it. The ashtray can be placed in the rear cupholder for the rear seat passengers to - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 100
. The sunroof glass panel cannot be opened or closed if your Pontiac has an electrical failure. Remove any items from the convertible top you the topor other partsof the system. Don't raise o r lower the convertibletop when the temperature is below 20°F (-7°C). The cold can cause cracks and other - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 101
Lowering Your Convertible Top 1. Set theparking brake and shift your automatic transaxle to PARK (P) or your manual transaxle to NEUTRAL (N). 2. Turn the ignition to the RUN position. Lower the side doorwindows. 3. Push the button in the latch handle and turn the handle - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 102
6. From inside $hevehkle, pull the rab 42 the rear seat x to fold down the seat.See "Fold-Down Rear Seat" in the Index. 7. Open the trunk and remove both boot side covers. Leave the trunk open. 2-49 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 103
1 8. Install the boot side cover by inserting the tab (A) on the underside of the cover into the slot (B) at the top of the quarter trim panel. Place the rear flap of the boot side cover in the trunk lid opening,aligning the eyelet (C) over the boot snap ball stud (D). 3. Attach the two snaps on - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 104
I 10. Pull the boot center cover from behind the rear seatback and place it over the inner sides of the boot side covers and the loweredtop. 11. Go to the rear of the vehicle. Place the boot center cover flap along the trunk opening. Alignone lid snap to snap ball stud and push forward. Repeat for - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 105
3 . From inside the vehicle, fold down the rear seatback. See "Fold-Down Rear Seat" in the Index. 2-52 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 106
r I 5. Unsnap both boot side cover snaps (E an(1 F) from the top of the quarter trim panel. ). Lift side cover eyelet (C) at rear of side boot cover from snap ball stud (D). Raise the back of the boot side cover to unhook the tab (A) from the slot (B) in the quarter trim panel. Do the same on the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 107
10. T r the ignitionto the RUN position. un 11. Lower both door windows to avoid wear to the weather strips. 13. Turn the latch handle up to lock the top. 12. Push the button in the latch - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 108
raise or lower completely, see "Raising the Top Manually" following. Before you do these steps, check to make sure that the bypass switch in the . 1 . Set the parking brake and shift your automatic transaxle to PARK (P) or yourmanual transaxle to NEUTRAL (N). Turn the engine off. ' 2. Push the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 109
5. Remove the top boot as described in Steps 4 through 7 in "Raising Your Convertible Top" earlierin ths section. 6. Lower the door windows completely. 7. Position one person on each sideof the vehicle. corners of Carefully lift the top by grasping the front the top, not the linkage. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 110
I I 8. Raise the top until it is all the way up. Line up the top so the pins are even with the holes. 9. Pull down on the top and turn the latch handle up to lock the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 111
The Instrument Panel -- Your Information System 2-58 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 112
Control 2. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 3. Hazard Warning Flashers Switch 4. Ignition Switch 7. Cupholder/Ashtray 8. Climate Controls and Rear Window Defogger 9. Parking Brake Lever 10. Tilt Steering Wheel Lever (Option) 1 1. Hood Release Lever 5 . Windshield Wipermasher Controls 6. Audio - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 113
Instrument Panel Cluster v v v v v v v I n n n n nnl 1 n n - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 114
) or kilometers (used in Canada). Trip Odometer APd Tamper Resistant Odometer Your Pontiac has a tamper resistant odometer. If you .see siLves k s .between it's set at zero and a label must be put on the driver's door to show the old mileage readin.g when the new odometer was installed. The - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 115
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 waming lights work together to let you know when there's a problem with your vehicle. When one of the warning - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 116
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows 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 sensor, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 117
belt, or another electrical problem. Have it checked right away. m g While this light is m Lcxmkl ckaii=l ymf lEiEery. 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 United States Canada This light - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 118
Pontiac needs service. If the regular brake system warning light isn't on, you still have brakes, but you don't have anti-lock brakes. If the regular brake system warning light is also on, you don't have anti-lock brakes and there's a problem with your regular brakes. See "Brake System Warning Light - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 119
stays on after your parking brake is fully released, it means there's a problem with the system. 0 If it stays on, or comes on when you're driving, there may be a problem with your Enhanced Traction System and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the systemwill not limit - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 120
moves intothe red area, your engine is too hot! It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you have been operating your vehicle under normal conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and t r off the e n p e as soon as possible. un In "Problems on the Road," thismanual - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 121
environment. (In Canada, OBD I1 is replaced by Enhanced Diagnostics.) The CHECK ENGINE 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, which may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 122
hauled as soon as it ispossible. 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 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 123
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 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 124
so hot that it could be burned. catches fire.You or others Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. The engine could be low onoil, orcould have some other oil problem. Have it fixed immediately. The oil light could also come on in two other situations: When the ignition is - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 125
and stays on, there may be a problem with the Passlock system. Your vehicle will not be protected byPasslock and you should see your dealer. the engine is running, Additionally, an oil check is performed if the engine hasbeen off for a considerable period of time allowing the oil normally in - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 126
on when you need to shift to the next higher gear. See "Manual Transaxle" in the Index. Check Gages Light This light will come on briefly when you are starting the engine. If the light comes on and stays on while you are driving, check your various gages to see if they are in the warning zones - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 127
, your fuel gage tells you about how much fuel you have left. Here are four things that some owners ask about. None of these show a problem with your fuel gage: At the gas station, the gas pump shuts off before the gage reads WLL (F). It takes a little more or less fueltu - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 128
with your Pontiac. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Standard Climate Control System Comfort Controls This section tells you howto make your a ~ system work r for you. The optional climate control system with air conditioning uses ozone-friendly - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 129
knob changes t-hetemperature of he air coming through the system. Turn this knob toward red (clockwise) for warmer air. Turn it toward blue (counterclockwise) for cooler air. Mode Knob BI-LEVEL: This setting brings in outside air and directs it two ways. Some air is directed through the instrument - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 130
continuously. The fan must be on to run the airconditioning compressor. MAX: This setting recirculatesmuch of the air inside your vehicle and sends it through the instrument panel outlets. The air conditioningcompressor will run automatically in this setting when it isneeded to help dry the airin - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 131
goes to the floor ducts. Theair conditioning compressor will run automatically in this setting when it is needed to help dry the air in the vehicle. Air Conditioning Compressor Button Press the A/C button to operatethe air conditioner compressor. The indicator light above the button will glow when - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 132
Heating On cold days, use FLOOR with the temperatureknob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air, heat it vehicle in cold weather, adjust the fan mode knob to FLOOR and the to the highest speed off. for a few moments before driving This helps clear the intake ductsof snow - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 133
and the fan control to highest setting. the To defog the side windows while using air conditioner, the set the right control BI-LEVEL, the fan control to to the highest setting,and press the A/C button. For both systems, aim the side vents toward the side windows. For increased airflow to the side - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 134
on the display. Playing the Radio VOLUME: Turn this knob to turn the system on or off. Turn the knob clockwise to increase volume. Turn it counterclockwise appears. There will be a two-second delay before the clock goes into time-set mode, and the colon on the display will blink while in this mode - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 135
stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjoining buttons at the same time. Just: 1. Tune in the desired station. 2. Press SET. 3. Press any two adjoining pushbuttons at the same time (within five seconds). 4. Whenever you press the same buttons, the station FADE: Turn the control - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 136
with Cassette Tape Player (Option) TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends.Turn it to choose radio stations. noisy, slide the lever down to reduce the noise. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn this knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. Use - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 137
knob lightly so listed on the top side of the cassette are playing. The tape player automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the end of the tape. write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1):Press this button or the SEEK down arrow to search for - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 138
or TUNE. FWD (6): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again toreturn to playing speed. The display --- to show the indicatorwas reset. CD Adapter Kits It is possible to use a CD adapter kit with your cassette tape player after activating the bypass - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 139
, pressthis button to play the radio. Setting the Tone EQUALIZER: A seven band equalizer is part of your audio system. Slide the levers up to boost or down to reduce frequency range. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. T r it to un move the sound to the left or right - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 140
FADE: Press t h s knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to move the sound to the playing. When the up arrow is lit, selections listed on thetop side of the cassette are playing. The tapeplayer automatically begins playing the other side when it reaches the end of the tape. If E and a number appear on - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 141
will display --- to show the indicator wasreset. CD Adapter Kits It is possibleto me a CD adapter kitwith your cassette tape active until EJECT is press. FWD (6): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed. The radio will - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 142
is playing, pressthis button to play the radio. TUNE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn it to choose radio stations. Push the knob back the six numbered buttons until VOL: Push this knob to turn the system on or off. Turn it clockwise to increase volume and counterclockwise to decrease - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 143
system. Slide the levers upto boost or down to reduce frequency range. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly is dirty, scratched or wet. The air is very humid. (If so, dealer when reporting the problem. RECALL: Press this button ithas been playing (elapsed time). The track number also - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 144
be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radio will not operate if stolen. When THEFTLOCK is activated, the radio display will LOC to indicate a locked condition anytime battery power is removed. If your - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 145
down. 5. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display. Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no radio is now operable and secure. If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear on the display. You will have to wait an hour - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 146
the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code asfollows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignitionto the ACCESSORY or RUN display. The radio will remain secured until the correct code is entered. When battery power is given to a secured radio, the LOC will appear on the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 147
interfere with each other.AM can pick up noise from things like stonnsand power lines. Ty r reducing the treble to reduce this noise if you ever get it or compact disc when the radio is playing. Tips About Your Audio System Hearing damage from loud noiseis almost undetectable until it is too late. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 148
try a known good cassette to see check Federal rules covering mobile radio and telephone units. -- -- is normal for the cassette to eject while cleaning. Insert the cassette at least three times to ensure thorough c l e ~ n g A scmbbing action cleaning cassette is ,. available through your Pontiac - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 149
the scrubbing type cleaner. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always make sure that the cassette tape is ingood condition before you have your tape player serviced. Be sure never to touch the signal surface whenhandling discs. Pick up discs by grasping the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 150
Please start with a very important safety device in your Pontiac: Buckle up. (See "Safety Belts" in the Index.) Defensive driving really means "beready is going to brake or turn suddenly. Here you'llfind information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We've - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 151
The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is forpeople never to drink alcoholand then drive. consumed 0 0 The drinker's body weight Attentiveness. Police records show every U.S. state t drink ak&ol. o There are good medical, psychological and developmental reasons for these laws. The - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 152
reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law 10 percent,^ the chance of this driver having a collision is 12 times greater; at a level of 0.15 percent, the chance is 25 times greater! It's the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 153
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink.No amount of coffee ornumber of cold showers will speed Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 154
it's easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide. That means you can losecontrol of your vehicle. And, of course, actual stopping distances vary greatly with the surface of the road (whether it's pavement or gravel); the condition of the road (wet, dry, icy); tire - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 155
may hear a momentarymotor or clicking noise while this test is going on,and you may even notice that your brake pedal moves a little. This isnormal. If there's a problem with the anti-lock brake system, this warning light will stay on. See "Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light" in the Index. 4-6 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 156
programmed to make the mostof available tire and road conditions. Here's how anti-lock works. Let's say the road is wet. You're driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps outin front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here's what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. If one - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 157
have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. LOW TRAC L Using Anti-Lock Don't pump the brakes. Just hold the brake pedal down and let anti-lock work for you. You may feel the system working - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 158
you know if there's a problem with the system. See "Enhanced Traction System Warning Light" in the Index. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 159
in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steeringcan help you more ttan even the very best braking. The traction you can get in a curve depends on the condition of your tires andthe road surface - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 160
child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can't; there isn't room. That's the time for evasiveaction -- steering around the problem. Your Pontiac can perform very well in emergencies - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 161
situations that might affect your passing patterns. If you have anydoubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait a better time. for Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings and lines. If you can see a sign up ahead that might indicate a turn or an intersection, delay your pass. A broken - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 162
r aslother a p p d y , e If other carsare lined up to pass a slow vehicle, wait your t r .But your shoulder and check the blind spot. Check your mirrors, time on two-laneroads. Reconsider beforepassing the next vehicle. Don't overtake a slowly moving vehicle too rapidly. Even though the brake - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 163
avoid most skids @king reasonable by care suited to existing conditions,and by not "overdriving" those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three typesof skids correspond to your Pontiac's three control systems. In the braking skid, your wheels aren't rolling. In the steering or cornering - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 164
Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. In remote areas, watch for wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you're driving, don problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 165
glass makes lights dazzle and flash more than clean glass would, pkek mt d i d y it'-s lighted objects. Just as your headlamps should be checked regularly for proper aim, so should see in dim light -- and aren't even aware of it. Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 166
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs andtraffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the large water puddles or even going through some car washes can causeproblems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 167
puddleof water or a a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving Through water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. Never drive through water that slightly good tires with proper tread depth. (See "Tires" in the Index.) 0 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 168
use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You'll save time and energy. (See the next part, "Freeway Driving.") Treat a green light as a warning signal. A traffic light isthere because the corner is busy enough to need it. When a light turns green,and just before you start to move - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 169
to determine where you expect to blend with the flow. Try to merge into thegap at close to 1433 prevailing sped. -SwIt& OIZ p u r turn .signd3 check your mirrors and glance over your shoulder as often as necessary. Tryto blend smoothly with the traffic flow. Once you are onthe freeway, adjust your - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 170
in Pontiac dealerships all across North America. They'll be ready and willing to help if you need it. Here are some things you can check before trip: a 0 Windshield Washer Fluid:Is the reservoir full? Are all windows clean inside and outside? Wiper Blades:Are they in good shape? Fuei; Engine OiL - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 171
condition as "highway hypnosis"? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel?Call it highway hypnosis,lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine sides. Check your - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 172
vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid I A CAUTION: ~~ levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle. These parts can work in your lane, like a stalled car or an accident. a You may see highway signs on mountains that warn of special problems. Examplesare long grades, passing or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 173
are some tips for winter driving: 0 0 Have your Pontiac in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles. And, if you will be driving under severe conditions, include a small bag of sand, a piece of old carpet or a couple of burlap - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 174
the worst time for this? "Wet ice." Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice can be even more trouble because it O Whatever the condition -- smooth ice, packed,blowing or loose snow -- drive with caution. If you have the Enhanced Traction System, keepthe system on. It - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 175
Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle's stability when you makea hard stop ona slippery road. Even though you have the anti-lockbraking system, you'll want to begin stopping soonerthan you would on dry pavement. See "Anti-Lock" in the Index. 0 0 If You're Caught in a Blizzard I Allow greater - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 176
clothing, make body insulators from newspapers . And check around again from time to timebe engine, make it go a little faster than just idle.That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged. You will need awell-charged battery - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 177
Follow the instructions for the towing equipment. Towing Your Vehicle from the Front (With a Dolly) 1. Put the front wheels on a dolly. 2. Set the parking brake. 3. Open the fuse panel on the driver's side of the instrument panel. Remove the fuse labeled CLS/PICM. This will keep your battery fkom - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 178
-speed automatic or a five-speed manual transaxle. Follow these steps: 3. Open the fuse panelon the driver's side of the instrument panel. Remove fuse labeled the CLS/PCM. This will keep your battery from draining while towing. 4. Shift your transaxle to NEUTRAL (N). 5. Release the parking brake - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 179
VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT XXX COLD TIRE PRESSURE SPEED TIRE SIZE PSI/KPa RTG FRT. RR. SPA. IF TIRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PS1;28KPa SEE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Information label found on the rear edge of the driver's door tells you the proper size, speed rating andrecommended inflation - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 180
U.S. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE. 1 A CAUTION: Do not load your vehicleany heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front rear or GAWR. If you do, parts - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 181
you need to. Towing a Trailer (Models with 2.4L Engine and 4-Speed Automatic Traasde) A CAUTION: If you don't use the brakes may not workwell or even a t all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followedall the steps in this section. Ask your Pontiac - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 182
be used properly. That's the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many -edwith a 2.2L (Code 4) engine. You a h carnot taw- a trailer if your vehicle is equipped with a manual or a three-speed automatic transaxle, or is a convertible model - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 183
A good source your engine and other parts Services Department One Pontiac Plaza Pontiac, Michigan 48340-2952 0 Obey speed limit restrictions whentowing a trailer. Don't drive faster than the maximum posted speed for trailers (or no more than 55 mph (90 km/h)) to save wear on your vehicle's parts - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 184
Weight on Your Vehicle's Tires Be sure your vehicle's tires are inflated to the recommended pressure for cold tires. You'll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver's door or see "Loading Your Vehicle"in the Index. Then be sure you don't go over the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 185
Q W &Zi&!Z' hVC! its OWn bE3ke.S? Be -SUX10 m d fallow irrstmrions for the tsailer brakes so yodU be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle's brake system. If you do, both brake systems won't work well, or at all. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 186
trailer brake controller by hand to be sure the brakes are working. This letsyou check your electrical connection at the same time. During your trip, check when you're towing a trailer. And, because you're a good deal longer, you'll need to go much farther beyond the passed someone guide you. 4-37 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 187
arrowson your instrument panel will flash for turns even the bulbs on if the trailerare burned out. Thus, you may think It's K i y important to check occasionally to be sure trailer the bulbs are still working. NOTICE: Making down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hotand no - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 188
: When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on 8 HiH 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: Start your engine; 0 Shift into a gear; and Release the parking brake. 1. Apply your regular brakes,but don't shift into PARK (P) yet. 2. Have someone place chocks under thetrailer - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 189
. Check periodically to seethat all hitch nuts and bolts are tight. Towing A Trailer (Except Models with 2.4L Engine and 4-Speed Automatic Transaxle) Do not tow a trailer with a Sunfire if your vehicleis: 4 a cmvertible model. e equipped with a 2.2L (Code 4) engine. equipped with a manual transaxle - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 190
can occur on the road. Hazard Warnine Flashers c3 Your hazard warning flashers let you w r others. They an also let police know you havea problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Move the switch to the right to makeyour front and rear turn signal - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 191
or all of these things can hurt you. 1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Pontiac. But please follow the steps blelow to do it - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 192
could damage the electrical systems. You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or amanual &m-saxle P4EUTWAL @?)-. in 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 193
blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don't CAUTION: need to add water to the Delco Freedom@ battery installed in every new GM vehicle. But if a Fans or other moving engine parts can injure you battery has filler caps, be sure the right amount - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 194
one. I 7. Remove the red plastic cap, and connect the red positive (+) cable tothe positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one. 9. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the good battery's negative (-) terminal. 5-5 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 195
service. it 13. Remove the cablesin reverse order toprevent electrical shorting. Take care that they don't touch each otheror any other metal. 10. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is justas good - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 196
aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct. Before you do anything, turn on the hazard warning flashers. When you call, tell the towing service parts not fully secured. CAUTION: (Continued) 5-7 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 197
(Continued) 0 A CAUTION: A vehicle can fall from a car carrier if it isn't adequately secured. This cam came a wheel should beclamped in a straight-ahead position with a clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle's steering column lock for this. The transaxle should bein - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 198
slots in the bottom of the floor pan, just behind the front wheels, on both sides. These slots are used when loading and securing to car carrier equipment. Before hooking up to a tow truck, be sure to read all the information in "Towing Your Vehicle" earlier in this section - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 199
NOTICE: Do not tow with sling-type equipment or fascia/fog lamp damagewill occur. Use wheel-lift or car carrier equipment. Additional ramping car may be required for carrier equipment. Use safety chainsand wheel straps. Towing over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle. Damage can occur from vehicle - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 200
under front wheels when equipped with automatic transaxle or damage occw: will Attach T-hook chains on both sides in the slotted holes of in the bottom the frame rail just ahead of the rear wheels. Theseslots are to be used when loading and securing to car carrier equipment. Before hooking up to - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 201
until adequate clearance obtained is between the ground and/or wheel liftequipment. Do not attach winch cables or J-hooks to suspension componentswhen using car carrier equipment. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots. I Attach a separate safety chain to each side of the axle inboard of - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 202
You will find a coolant temperature gage and a low coolant warning light on your Pontiac's instrument panel. A CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine you see or hear steam if coming from it. Just turn it and get - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 203
have an air conditioner, turn it off. 2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the window as necessary. 3. If you're in a traffic j m shift to NEUTRAL (N); a , otherwise, shift to the highest gear while driving -- AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (D) for four-speed automatic or DRIVE - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 204
hood canstart up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant surge tank is boiling, don't do anything else until it cools down. 2 4 Engine .L 1 ..--,r_ A. Coolant Surge Tank with - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 205
at the FULL COLD line. If it isn't, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. NOTICE: If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine fan is running. If the engine is overheating, the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 206
Coolant Surge Tank If you haven't found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn't at the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL TM antifreeze at the coolant surge tank, but be sure the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap, is - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 207
catch fire you or others could be burned. a 50/50 mix of clean Use water and DEX-COOL antifreeze. TM t NOTICE: In cold weather, watercan freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts.So use the recommended coolant. A CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 208
Then keep turning the pressure cap slowly, and remove it. 1. You can remove the coolant surge tank pressure cap when the cooling system, including the coolant surge tank pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.Turn the pressure capslowly about one-quarter turn to the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 209
3. Then fill the coolant surge tank with the proper mix, up to the FULL COLD mark. 4. With the coolant surge tank pressure cap off, start the engine and let it m until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot.Watch out for the engine fan. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 210
tank until the level reaches the FULL COLD mark. If a Tire Goes Flat It'sunusual for , especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it's much more likely firmly. Steer to maintain lane position, and then gently brake to a stop well out of the traffic lane. 5. Then - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 211
but you still steer. Gently brake to a stop-- well off the road if possible. If a tire goes flat, the next part shows how to use your jacking parking brake firmly. 2. Put an automatic transaxle shift lever in PARK (P), or shift a manual transaxle to FIRST (1) or REVERSE(R). 3. Turn off the engine. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 212
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you'll need is ... R " ' "?yq in the trunk. Turn the center retainer nuton the compact spare cover counterclockwise to remove it. Lift and remove the tire cover. See "Compact Spare Tire" later in this section for more information about the compact - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 213
Remove the jack and the wheel. wrench f r ~ m W, the Your vehicle's jack and wheel wrench are stored in a foam tray. Remove the band around jack. the A A A c B Turn the wing nut counterclockwise and remove it. Then lift off the adapter and remove the spare tire. The toolsyou'll be using include - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 214
to find the wheel nuts. Carefully usethe wedge end of the wheel wrench to pry it off. 2. Near each wheel well is a notch in the frame which the jack head fits in. The frontnotch is 9 inches (23 cm) back from the front wheel well. The rear notch is 8 inches (20 cm - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 215
itis jacked up is you dangerous. If the vehicle slipsoff the jack, could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. ~~ ~ NOTICE: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle tofall off the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 216
wheel cover from the wheel. Then remove the flat tire. Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts come become looseafter a time. The wheel could off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rustor dirt from the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 217
A CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. Ifyou do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 7. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. L 8. Lower - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 218
the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-crcw sequence, as shown. ~ - NOTICE.: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can to read brake pulsation and rotor damage. avoid To expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. A CAUTION: Incorrect - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 219
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools 1 A CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire orother equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehiclecould cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. e \ H B A A. Wrench B. Jack C . Flat - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 220
Storing the Spare Tire and Tools I A CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tireor other equipment in the passenger compartmentof the vehicle could cause injury. In asudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. The compact spare is for temporary use only. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 221
tirewas fully inflated when your vehicle was new,it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 an automatic wash with car guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, of and maybe other parts your - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 222
the transaxle or other parts the vehicle can overheat. That could cause an engine compartment fire or other and a forward gear (or with a manual transaxle, between FIRST (1) or SECOND (2) the accelerator pedal while you shift, and press lightly on the accelerator pedal whenthe transaxle is in gear - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 223
NOTES 5-34 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 224
y-it1711 gefi-ukie 1 g& GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you'll want to keep your GM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to do your own servicework, see "Servicing Your Air Bq-EqtE~qped Pmtiac" in - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 225
or higher and you still hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. But don't worry if you hear a little pinging check test. If this occurs, return to your authorized Pontiac dealer for diagnosis determine the to cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 226
&signed for € $hat W l contains methanol. Don't useit. It can corrode metai parts inyour fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage wouldn't be covered underyour warranty. To check onfuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 227
if you're near gasoline or refueling your vehicle.Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline. The cap is behind a hinged door onthe right side of your vehicle. While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door. To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 228
least three clicks. Make sure you fully install ihe cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed fit or have proper venting, and your fuel tank and emissions system might be damaged. Be careful notto spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 229
Release The following sections tellyou how to check fluids, lubricants and important parts underhood. A CAUTION: An electric fan - Things that burn can get hot engine parts and on start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and You other fluids - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 230
and return the prop to its retainer. Lower the hood 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 cm) above the vehicle and release to latch fully. Check to make sure the hood is closed and repeat if necessary. 6-7 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 231
the hood you'll see: A. Coolant SurgeTank B. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir C. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick (if equipped) D. Engine Oil Fill CapDipstick E. Brake Fluid Reservoir E Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Reservoir (if equipped) G. Air Cleaner H. Battery I. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 232
(Code T) When you open up the hood you'll see: A. B. C. D. Coolant Surge Tank Engine Oil Fill Cap Engine Oil Dipstick Power Steering Fluid Reservoir E. Brake Fluid Reservoir F. Hydraulic Clutch Fluid Reservoir (if equipped) G . Battery H. Air Cleaner I. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir 6-9 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 233
comes on, it means you need to check your engine oillevel right away. For more information, see "Check Oil Light" in the Index. You should check your engine oil levelregularly; this is an added reminder- CHECK OIL It's a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 234
Checking Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean itwith a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all theway. Remove it again, keeping the tip down, and check the level. NOTICE: Don't addtoo much oil. If your engine has so much oil that theoil level gets above the upper mark that shows the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 235
symbol on the front of the oil container. If you have your oil changed for you, be sure theoil put into your engine is American Petroleum Institute certified for gasoline engines. You should also use the properviscosity oil foryour vehicle, as shown in the following chart: This is where add oil if - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 236
your vehicle. 1 TUU: i !I + 80 +io/ t QO! + 20 0- SAE SW-30 PREFERREO SAL 1OW ," \ ' I -30 Engine Oil Additives Don't add anything to your oil. Your Pontiac dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. COLD WEATHER 00 NOT USE SAE 2OW-50 OR ANY OTHER GRADE OIL NOT - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 237
good hand cleaner. Wash or properly throw away clothing or rags containing used engine have a problem properly disposing of your used oil, ask yourdealer, a service station or service, police, taxi Or Oh T C S ~ ~ 4 T C ~k&d i C L t t C K L iC d 0 0 0 0 Driving under these conditions causes engine - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 238
cleaner is located on the driver's side the of engine compartment near the battery. To check or replace the filter, remove the screws that hold the coveron andlift the cover. Be sure to reinstall the air cleaner filter and replace the cover tightly. Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 239
could be burned. it off, and be careful working the engine with on off. the air cleaner Automatic Transaxle Fluid (Except 2.4L Code T Engine) When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid level is when engine oil is changed. the Change both the fluid and filter every - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 240
could come out and fall onhot engine parts or exhaust system parts, startinga fire. Be sure to get an accurate reading if you check your transaxle fluid. Checking the Fluid Level Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 241
Then, without shutting o f the engine, follow these steps: f / The handle on the transaxle dipstick is a red ring. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 242
because fluid with that label is madeespecially for your automatic transaxle. Damage caused by fluid other than DEXRON@-111is not covered by your newvehicle warranty. 0 Manual Transaxle Fluid When to Check A good time to have it checked is when the engine oil is changed. However, the fluid in your - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 243
if you check your transaxle fluid. Check the fluid levelonly when your engine is off, the vehicle is parked on a level place and the transaxleis cool enough for you to rest your fingers on the transaxlecase. 1. The manual transaxle dipstick is located below the brake master cylinder, near the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 244
your vehicleis self-adjusting. The clutch master cylinder reservoir is filled with hydraulicclutch fluid. It isn't a good idea to "top off' your clutchfluid. Adding fluid won't correct a leak. A fluid loss inthis system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. dipstick back - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 245
If you have a problem with engine overheating, see "Engine Overheating" in the Index. A 50/50 mixture of water and the proper coolant for your Pontiac will: 0 0 Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine how often you should check the fluid level in your clutch master cylinder reservoir and for - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 246
one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL (orange-colored, silicate-free) antifreeze that meets GM Specification 6277M, which won't damage aluminum parts. Use GM Engine Coolant Supplement (sealer) (GM Part No. 3634621) with any complete coolant change. If you use this mixture - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 247
covered by your warranty, Too much waterin the mix can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four timesa year, have your dealer check your cooling system. Checking Coolant __ ~~ If you use the proper coolant,you don't have to add - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 248
if the engine parts are hot enough. Don't spill coolant on a hot engine. When replacing the pressure cap, make sure it istight. I When your engine is cold,the coolant level should be at the FULL COLD mark. If thislight comes on, it means you're low on engine coolant. See "Low Coolant Light" in - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 249
tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. When you replace your surge tank pressure cap, a GM cap is recommended. Thermostat Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 250
n r you hear an unusual noise. A fluid lossin this system could indicate a problem. Have the system inspected and repaired. 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 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 251
fluid tank only full 3/4 when it's very cold. This allows for expansion, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. Don't use radiator antifreeze in your windshield washer. It can damage your washer system and paint. Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here.It is filled with DOT - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 252
fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, asnecessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme11 (GM Part No. 1052535).Use new brake fluid from a sealed - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 253
could result in costly brake repair. Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakesare first applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes. Brake Wear Your Pontiac has front discbrakes and rear drum brakesDisc brakepads have built - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 254
the brakes a few times. Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a modern vehicle is complex. Its many partshave to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake parts in them, asyour Pontiac - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 255
in the Index for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt. Headlamps For the type of bulb, see "Replacement Bulbs"in the Index. Contact your dealer to learn how to prepare your vehicle for longer storage periods. Also, for your audio system,see "Theft-Deterrent Feature" in the Index. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 256
hold the shieldin place. 2. Remove the bolt that anchors the headlamp assembly. Pull the headlamp assembly toward the front of the vehicle to access the bulb assembly. 3. Twist the bulb retainer one-eighth of a turn counterclockwise and pull the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 257
Taillamps For the type of bulb, see "Replacement Bulbs" in the Index. I, $& c i" I .- 4. Disconnect the bulb base from the socket by lifting the plastic locking tab. 5. Snap a new bulb into the socket. 6. Replace the bulb assembly by reversing Steps 1 through 3. 1. Pull the carpet away from - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 258
Windshield WiperBlade Replacement 3. To remove the bulb, pull it out. 4. Push in a new bulb. 5. Reverse all steps to replace the taillamp assembly. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways. For proper type and length, - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 259
your Pontiac Warranty booklet for details. CAUTION: (Continued) Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overIoaded 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 cold. are - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 260
door shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires when they're cold. "Cold" air (underinflation),you can get the following: Too much flexing Too much heat 0 0 If your tires havetoo much air NOTICE: (Continued) How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gageto check tire pressure. You can't - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 261
as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See "When It's Time for New Tires" and " Services" in the Index for scheduled rotation intervals. Rust or dirt ona wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 262
Tires One way to tell when it's time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your to give proper endurance, handling,speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle. If your tires have an all-season tread design, the TPC number - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 263
bias-belted or radial) as your originaltires. Uniform Tire Quality Grading The following information relatesto the system 30 cm), or to some limited-production tires. While the tires available on General Motors passenger cars and h g h lxucks may vary w& respect 10 &ese I A CAUTION: Mixing - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 264
conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (I 1/2) times conditions oftheir use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service on braking (straightahead) traction tests and does not - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 265
GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for your Pontiac model. Wheel the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your Pontiac dealer if any of these conditions exist. Your - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 266
problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer/odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper height,vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis. I Tire Chains NOTICE: If your Pontiac follow the and chain manufacturer's instructions.I you can f hear the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 267
you use anything from a container to cleanyour Pontiac, be sure to follow the manufacturer's warnings and instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you're cleaning the inside. Never use these to cleanyour vehicle: 0 Don't use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 268
surrounding trim along stitch orwelt lines. Mix Multi-Purpose Powdered very little cleaner, or light pressure and clean cloths . 0 0 0 0 Special Cleaning Problems Greasy or Oily Stains Stains caused by clean cloth. Follow the solvent-type instructions described earlier. Using Solvent-'Qpe Cleaner - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 269
catsup, coffee (black), egg, fruit, 0 If a stain remains, follow the foam-type instructions described earlier. If an odor lingers after cleaning vomit needed, cleanlightly with solvent-type cleaner. Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. 0 Combination Stains Stains causedby candy, - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 270
rinse it with water. Cleaning the Outside of Your Pontiac The paint finish on your vehicle providesbeauty, depth o Color, gloss retention m d durability. f Washing Your Vehicle The best way to preserve your vehicle'sf i s h is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water. 6-47 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 271
dish or car washing ( marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Pontiac Pontiac garaged or covered Your Pontiac has a "basecoat/clearcoat" paintfinish. The whenever possible. clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 272
bleaching agents. When you clean the top, put one hand under it to support it. Wet the entire vehicle and wash the top evenly to avoid spots you decide to go through an automatic car wash, ask the manager if the equipment could damage your top. Before entering a car wash, set the climate control to - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 273
requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to the parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Chemical Paint Spotting Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 274
leather and rubber 12345002** Armor All Cleaner 16 oz. (0.473 L) 12345725 Silicone Tire Shine Shines tires 12 oz. (0.354 L) See your General Motors Parts Department for these products. * Not recommended for pigskin suede leather. See "Fluids and Lubricants" in the Index. **Not recommended for use on - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 275
can keep other components from working as they should. Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your Pontiac, see "Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Pontiac" inthe Index. Service Parts Identification Label You'll find this label your spare tire cover. It - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 276
fuses checked right away- Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combinationof fuses, circuitbreakers and fusible thermal links. This greatly reduces the chance of damage caused by eketkcd probkrns. Look at the silver-colored band - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 277
and pull the door forward. Make sure to insert the tabs first when replacing the cover. Fuse TURN-B/U F/P-INJ CLUSTER CLSPCM Usage Exterior Lamps,Back-up Lamps Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors Instrument Cluster, Anti-Lock Brake System Instrument Cluster, Powertrain Control Module, Daytime Running Lamps - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 278
Purge Valve, A/C Compressor AIR BAG Air Bag System EXT LAMP Exterior Lamps, Instrument Panel Lights PRiR A€C hwer Dmx L& flrnV&H& TGp -, (Convertible Model) Heater and A/C Control, Anti-Lock HVAC Brake System Radio, Remote Keyless Entry RADIO ALARM Interior Lamps, Alarm Module, Warning Chimes CRUISE - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 279
Ignition Switch Circuits Power ACC/Stoplamp Circuits Lighting Circuits Anti-Lock Brake System Engine Cooling Fan Heater and A/C Blower Powertrain Control Module A/C Compressor Anti-Lock Brake System Gen Voltage Sensor (2.2L Engine) BATT 2 ABS The enginecompartment fuse block is located on the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 280
Rear Turn Signal Lamps ...3057 License Plate Lamp (Sedan) ...194 Rear Applique Lamp (Coupe) ...912 Rear Applique Lamp (Sedan) ...194 INSIDE LAMPS BULB Courtesy Lamps ...168 Dome Lamp ...562 Reading Lamp (If Equipped) ...2 12-2 Heater and A/C Control ...194 194 High-Beam Indicator ...GloveBox ...194 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 281
torque converter, more fluid may be needed. Manual Transaxle Complete Drain and Refill ...2.0 quarts (1.9 L) Cooling System 2.2L ...10.3 quarts (9.8 L) 2.4L ...10.7 quarts (10.1 L) Refrigerant (R=134a), Conditioning . . , Air - . See refrigerant charge label under the hood. FuelTank ...15.2 gallons - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 282
...Horsepower ...Firing Order ...Thermostat Temperature ...4 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Air Cleaner Element 2.2L ..., AC Type A- 1172C 2.4L ..., AC Type A-1 l72C Engine Oil Filter , AC Type PF-47 2.2L ..., AC Type PF-44 2.4L ...PCV Valve ...AC Type CV-900C 2.2L ...2.4L ..., N/A Spark mugs - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 283
Dimensions Length Coupe ...Sedan ...Convertible Width Coupe ...Sedan ...Convertible Height Coupe ...Sedan ...Convertible . . 18 1.9 inches (462.2 crn) . . 181.9 inches (462.2 cm) inches (462.2 cm) ...18 1 .~9 ...75.4 inches (191.6 cm) . Wheelbase Coupe . . , . * sedan ...Convertible . . Front - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 284
, and to keep your vehicle in good condition, please maintain your vehicle properly. IMPORTAN+ KEEP ENGINE OjL AT I K PRO!%@ r LEVEL AND CHANGE AS RECOMMENDE~ This section covers the maintenance required for your Pontiac. Your vehicleneeds these services to retain its safety, dependabilityand - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 285
.. ''Part € : 3 Owner Checks and Services?' teEs you what should be checked whenever you stop for fuel. also It explains what you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. "Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections'' explains important inspections that your Pontiac dealer's service - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 286
to keep your vehicle in good condition, see your Pontiac dealer. This part tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when you should schedule them. If you go to your dealer for your service needs, you'll know that GM-trained and supported service people will perform the work using - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 287
000 km): Air Cleaner Filter R'eplacement.Fuel Tank, Cap and Lines Inspection. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Inspection (2.2L Code 4 engine only). Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic Transaxle Service (severe conditions only). Every 60,000 Miles (X00000 km): Engine Accessory Drive Belt - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 288
and Lines Inspection. Every 50,000 Miles (83 000 km): Automatic Transaxle Service (severe conditions only). Every 60,000 Miles (100 000 km): Engine Accessory Drive Belt Inspection. Every 100,000 Miles (166 000 km): Cooling System Service (or every 60 months, whichever occurs first). Spark Plug Wire - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 289
Schedule 1 , I 3,000 Miles (5 000 km) 0Change engine oiland filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. . , . " , . . , . ...; ...i". I . , ... . ... . , I I ' I .- ..., ..is. . 'I . , : . The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 290
Control Service. 9,000 Miles (15 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. check brake cdiiers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 291
. Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and the transaxle shift linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 292
Service. 21,000 Miles (35 000 km) 17 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 293
oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 27,000 Miles (45000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. Cl Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and the transaxle shift linkage (or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 294
additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper serviceprocedures. 0Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system (2.2L Code 4 engine only). An Emission Control Service. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 295
oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 33,000 Miles (55 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. IJ Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and the transaxle shift linkage (or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 296
and ] Rotation" in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer tothe appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY: I DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 297
occurs first). An Emission Control Service. I 48,000 Miles (80 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Sewice. 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 298
000 km) EChange automatic trans-axk fluid and m e r if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city any of these conditions, thefluid andfilter do require changing. not Manual transaxle fluid doesn't require change. . DATE . ACTUAL MILEAGE -SERVICED B Y . - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 299
W Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) 0Change engine oil and rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 300
3 months, whichever occurs first). An EmissionControl Service. 0Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and the transaxle shift linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An Emission Control Service. Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 301
tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Sewice. Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system (2.2L Code 4 engine only). An Emission Control Service. -f- DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED B Y DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 302
Service. 66,000 Mikes (110 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. During tire meatim, check k&e calipesrs for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE ACTUAL - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 303
engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and. the transaxle shift linkage (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 304
Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE .SERVICED BY: 1 DATE 1 ACTUALMILEAGE 7 SERVICED BY: 1 7-21 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 305
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 87,000 Miles (145 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 306
information. During tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. 17 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel capgasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 307
and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 93,000 Miles (155 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and the transaxle shift linkage (or - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 308
and pressure cap. An Emission Control Service. 99,000 Miles (165 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect spark plug wires (except 2.4L Code T engine). A n Emission Control Service. Replace spark plugs. An Emission - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 309
Schedule I - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. If p a da n m use ~ under any of these conditions, thefluid andfilter not require changing do Q M vehicle 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) (Continued) c Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter ] if the vehicle is mainly driven - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 310
. See "Tire Inspection and Rotation" in the Indexfor proper rotation pattern and additional information. During tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE SERVICED ACTUAL MILEAGE BY 1- 7-27 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 311
first). An Emission ControlService. 22,500 Miles (37 500 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission check brake calipers €or freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE SERVICED ACTUAL - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 312
Miles (50 000 km) Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service.-f 0Lubricate the suspension - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 313
Control Service. 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) E Change engine oil and filter (or every l 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. c tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the appropriate GM service 'manualfor proper caliper service procedures. c - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 314
(83 000 km) 0Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: - In heavy city or delivery service. If you do not use your vehicle under any of these do conditions, thefluid andfilter not require changing. Manual transaxle fluid - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 315
GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED B Y Lubricate the suspension, steering linkage and the transaxle shift linkage (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). 0Inspect engine accessory drive belt. An Emission Control Service. Replace air cleaner - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 316
rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Refer to the 0Inspect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system (2.2L Code 4 engine only). An Emission Control Service. -f- 1 i- ., : I : appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. c ACTTJAL MILEAGE DATE SERVICED BY - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 317
Control Service. 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. CI tire rotation, check brake calipers for freedom of movement. Referto the appropriate GM service manual for proper caliper service procedures. DATE - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 318
(150 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. C Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage l or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. 0Lubricate the suspension - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 319
12 months, whichever occurs first). 0Rotate tires. See "Tire Inspection and Rotation" in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. 0Inspect spark plug wires (except 2.4L Code T engine). An Emission Control Service. I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE ISERVICED BY: I - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 320
Service. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - 0Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions delivery service. If you do not useyour vehicle under any of these conditions, the fluid andfilter do not require changing. Manual - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 321
pressures. See "Tires" in the Index for furtherdetails. Cassette Deck Service Clean cassette deck. Cleaning should be done every 50 hours of tape play. See "Audio Systems" in the Index for further details. Engine Oil Level Check Check the engine oil leveland add the proper oil if necessary. See - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 322
air bag covers, and have them repaired or replaced. (The airbag system does not needregular maintenance.) Manual Transaxle Check Check the transaxle fluid level; add needed. See if "Manual Transaxle"in the Index. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Check the system and repair if needed. Automatic - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 323
automatic transaxle vehicles, try to start the engine ineach gear. The starter should work only in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the starter works in any other position, your vehicle needs service. Starter Switch Check On manual transaxie vehicks, put the shift lever in NEUTRAL (N), push the clutch - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 324
(BTSI) Check (Automatic Transaxle) Steering Column Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the key to LOCK in each shift lever position. With an automatic transaxle, the should turn to key LOCK only when theshift lever is in PARK (P). With a manual transaxle, the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 325
. Do this until the vehicle is held by the parkingbrake only. 0 To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shiftto PARK (P). Then release all brakes. I i Underbody Flushing Service to At least everyspring, use plain water flush any corrosive materials from - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 326
rotors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other brakeparts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc. Exhaust System Inspection Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body near Check parking brake adjustment. You may - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 327
Transmission Fluid - Manual Engine Coolant Transaxle Automatic Transaxle Key Lock Cylinders (preferably distilled) and GM Goodwrench@ DEX-COOL or Havoline@DEX-COOL TM (orange-colored, silicate-free) antifreeze conformingto GM Specification 6277M.See "Engine Coolant" in the Index. (GM Part - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 328
@Washer Solvent (GAM Part No- lOs.l5l,s).or equivalent. Clutch Linkage Pivot Points Chassis Lubrication, Fuel Filler Door and Striker Plunger Hood and Door Hinges, Rear Compartment Lid Hinges and Rear Weatherstrip Conditioning Dielectric Silicone Grease(GM Part No. 12345579 or equivalent - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 329
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed,record the date, odometer reading and who performed service the in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from "Owner Checks and Services" or "Periodic Maintenance" can be added on the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 330
Maintenance Record . DATE ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED - - 7-47 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 331
Maintenance Record 7-48 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 332
Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users Roadside Assistance 0 0 Courtesy Transportation 0 BBB Auto Line - Alternative Dispute Resolution Program Reporting Safety Defects Service and Owner Publications 0 With the PONTIAC CARES program, you are never more than a phone call away from having - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 333
of benefits that can give you safety, security, comfort and convenience. Customer Satisfaction Procedure What makes up Pontiac Cares? 0 A 3 year/36,000 mile Bumper to Bumper Warranty Roadside Assistance Courtesy Transportation 0 All of these elements combine to make your driving experience an - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 334
with the Sales, Service, or Parts Manager, contact theowner of the dealership or theGeneral Manager. STEP TWO -- If after contacting a memberof dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, contact the Pontiac - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 335
by dialing: 1-800-833-PONT. (TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) United States Pontiac Division Customer Assistance Center One Pontiac Plaza Pontiac, MI 48340-2952 Canada General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Center, 163-005 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 336
uncertain situations by providing minor repair information over the phone making or arrangements to tow your vehicle to the nearest Pontiac dealer. Ir We will provide the following services for 3 years/36,000 miles, at no expenseto you: 0 Vehicle out of fuel Keys fsckeb in vehicle Tow to nearest - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 337
instances, mechanical failures are covered under Pontiac'scomprehensive warranty. However, when other services are utilized, our advisors will explain dealeror call 1-800-268-6800 for emergency services. Vehicle model, year and color Mileage of vehicle Vehicle identification number Vehicle license - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 338
, and to any 1996 Pontiac requiring repair as a result of product recall or special policy situations. For same day service, you are entitled to one-way shuttle service of up to 10 miles. If the repairs requirean overnight stay for the car, you're entitled to either a Pontiac loaner or reimbursement - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 339
arises where you feel your concern has not been BBB AUTO LINE is an out-of-courtprogram administered by the Better Business Bureau system to settle disputes between customers and automobile manufacturers. This program is available free charge of /-in to customers who curreniiy ow11 01; lease - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 340
LINE, but you may contact the BBB at any time. The BBB will attempt to resolve the complaint serving as an intermediary between you and Pontiac become involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, or General Motors. To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 341
Canada) we in a situation like this, certainly hope you'll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-PM-CARES or write: Pontiac Division Customer Assistance Center One Pontiac Plaza Pontiac, MI 48340-2952 In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French). Or, write: General - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 342
and Owner Publications Service Manuals Service manuals contain diagnostic and repair information for all chassis and body systems. They may be useful for owners who wish to get a greater understanding of their vehicle. They are also useful for owners with the appropriate skill - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 343
will describe expensive sewice. Some will advise of new or unexpected conditions, and others may help avoid future costly repairs. Service bulletins are meant for qualified technicians. In some cases bulletins refer to service manuals, specialized tools, equipment and safety procedures necessary to - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 344
...6-15 Airconditioning ...3-4 Air Conditioning Refrigerants ...6-58 Alignment and Balance, Tire ...6-42 Aluminum Wheels, Cleaning ...6-49 Antenna, Fixed ...3-2 2. ter Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light ...2-65, 4-6 Brakes ...4-6 Anti-Theft, Radio ...3-17 Antifreeze ...6-22 Appearance Care - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 345
of Your Pontiac ...6-47 Special Problems ...6-45 Stains ...6-45 Tires ...6-50 Vinyl ...6-46 Wheels ...6-49 Windshield and Wiper Blades ...6-47 Climate Control System, Standard ...3-1 Climate Control System with Air Conditioning ...3-3 Clock, Setting the ...3-7 Clutch, Hydraulic ...6-21 Clutch Fluid - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 346
. Adding ...2- 13. 2- 14. 3-2 I. 6.52 Electrical System Engine ...6-8.6-52 6-9 Coolant ...Coolant Heater ...Coolant Level Check ...Coolant Temperature Gage ...Exhaust ...FuseBlock ...Identification ...OilLevelCheck ...Overheating ...Running While Parked ...Specifications ...StartingYour ...6-22 2-15 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 347
ETS (Enhanced Traction System) Active Light ...2-67, 4-8 Warning Light ...2-66, 4-9 Exhaust, Engine ...2-27 F a b r i c Cleaning ...6-45 Fifth Gear, Manual Transaxle ...2-22 Filling Your Tank ...6-4 Filter, Air ...6-15 Finisheare ...6-48 Finish Damage ...6-50 First Gear, Automatic Transaxle ...2-19 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 348
Vehicle ...2-2 Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running ...2-25 Lighter ...2-4f Lights Air Bag Readiness ...1-20, 2-62 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ...2-65, 4 4 Battery ...2-61 Brake System Warning ...2-6~ Check Engine ...2-62 Check Gages ...2-7: Check Oil ...2-72 ETS Active (Enhanced Traction - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 349
Key Lock Cylinder Service ...7-40 PowerDoor ...2-4 Rear Door Security ...2-5 Steering Column Lock Check ...7-41 Low Coolant Warning Light ...2-68, 6-22 Lowering the Convertible Top Manually ...2-55 Lowering Your Convertible Top ...2-47 Lubricants and Fluids ...7-44 Lubrication Service, Body ...7-40 - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 350
, Air Conditioning ...6-58 Remote Keyless Entry System ...2-6 Remote Trunk Release ...2-8 Replacement Bulbs ...6-57 Parts ...6-59 Wheel ...6-42 Replacing Safety Belts ...1-46 Reporting Safety Defects ...8-9 Restraints Checking ...1-46 Head ...1-4 Replacing Parts After a Crash ...1-46 System Check - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 351
...6-1 Rear Comfort Guides ...1-29 Service and Appearance Care ...6-1 Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions ...1-26 Service and Owner Publications ...8-11 Rear Seat Passengers ...1-25 Service Publications ...8-11 1-6. 2-63 Reminder Light ...Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Pontiac ...1-24 Replacing - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 352
...2-62 Taillamp Bulb Replacement ...6.34.6.57 Tape Player Care ...3-21 Theft ...2-8 Theft-Deterrent Feature, CD Player ...3- 17 THEFTLOCK ...3-1 7 TM 1 . Thermostat ...6-26 Third Gear, Automatic Transaxle ...2-20 Third Gear, Manual Transaxle ...2-22 Tilt Steering Wheel ...2-30 Time, Setting the - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 353
.4.40 Towing Your Vehicle ...5-7 Trailer Brakes ...4-36 Driving on Grades ...4-38 Weigh1 ...4-34 Transaxle Automatic ...6- 16. 6. 19 Manual ...6-19 Transmitters. Service ...Underbody Maintenance ...7-42 6-50 Up-ShXt Light System ...3-5 Visors. Sun ...2-47 w a r n i n g Devices ...5-2 Warning Lights - 1996 Pontiac Sunfire | Owner's Manual - Page 354
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