2003 Pontiac Grand Am Owner's Manual - Page 267

1. Check the other vehicle. It must have a 12-volt battery with a negative ground system. Notice: If the other system isn't a 12-volt system with a negative ground, both vehicles can be damaged. 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren't touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don't want. You wouldn't be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put an automatic transaxle in PARK (P) or a manual transaxle in NEUTRAL before setting the parking brake. 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Unplug unnecessary accessories plugged into the cigarette lighter. Turn off the radio and all lamps that aren't needed. This will avoid sparks and help save both batteries. And it could save your radio! 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (-) terminal locations on each vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. c An electric fan can start up evenwhen the engine is not running and can injureyou. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. Notice: If you leave your radio on, it could be badly damaged. The repairs wouldn't be covered by your warranty. 5-44