1998 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 360

Ignition Transmission Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, tryto turn the ignition key to LOCK each shift lever position. in With an automatic transmission, the key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever in PARK (P). is With a manual transmission, the key should turn to LOCK only when theshift lever is in REVERSE (R). On vehicles with a key release button, try to turn the key to LOCK without pressing button. The key should the turn to LOCK only when you press the key button. On all vehicles, the key should come only in LOCK. out Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission PA-" :P) M 'nanisl k Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping yourfoot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. To check the parking brake's holding ability: With the engine running and transmission in NEUTRAL (N), slowly remove foot pressure from the regular brake pedal. this until the vehicle is Do held by the parking brake only. 0 To check the PARK (P) mechanism's holding ability: With the engine running, shift to PARK Then (P). release all brakes. Underbody Flushing Service At least every spring, use plain water flush any to corrosive materials fromthe underbody. Takecare to clean thoroughly any areas where mud and other debris can collect. When you are doing this check, your vehicle could begin to move. You or others couldbe injured and property could be damaged. Make sure thereis room in front of your vehicle in case it begins to roll. Be ready to apply the regular brake at once shouldthe vehicle begin to move. 7-35