1997 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual - Page 264

air Operating the engine with the cleaner off can cause you or others to burned. The air cleaner be not only cleans theair, it stops flame the engine if backfires. If it isn't there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don't drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner off. 5 7 Engine .L Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the air filter. See "Scheduled Maintenance Services" in the Index. I NOTICE: If the air cleaner is off, a backfire can cause a damaging enginefire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which damage it. Always will have theair cleaner in place when you're driving. 6-19