1997 Pontiac Grand Am Owner's Manual - Page 119

Low Coolant Warning Light If this light comes on and stays on, the vehicle should be promptly pulled off the road andthe coolant level checked. See "Engine Coolant" in the Index. Malfunction IndicatorLamp (Check Engine Light) Your Pontiac is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission CHECK ENGINE If there are visible signs of steam see "Engine Overheating" inthe Index before opening the hood. This system is called OBD I1 (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure thatemissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. (InCanada, 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 problemis apparent. This may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle. This system is also designed to assist your service technician in correctly diagnosing any malfunction. 2-64