2001 Pontiac Bonneville Owner's Manual - Page 303

NOTICE: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you're driving. The particle filter is located under a removeable panel at the base of the windshield on the passenger's side. Passenger Compartment Air Filter (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, the outside air entering the vehicle is routed through a filter. The filter removes certain particles from the air, including pollen and dust particles. Reductions in airflow, which may occur more quickly in dusty areas, indicate that the filter needs to be replaced early. The filter should be replaced as part of the routine scheduled maintenance. See "Maintenance Schedule" in the Index for replacement intervals. See your dealer for details on changing the filter. Once you remove your filter, if you choose not to replace it, it will not damage your vehicle. However, the air will no longer be filtered. 6-18