2001 Pontiac Grand Am Owner's Manual - Page 100

To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down. Pull the parking brake handle up until you can press the release button. Hold the release button in as you move the brake handle all the way down. Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transaxle Only) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly. You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won't move, even when you're on fairly level ground, use the steps that follow. If you're pulling a trailer, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: NOTICE: Driving with the parking brake on can cause your rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace them, and you could also damage other parts of your vehicle. If you are towing a trailer and are parking on a hill, see "Towing a Trailer" in the Index. That section shows what to do first to keep the trailer from moving. 2-30