coolant temperature PONTIAC G6 2005 Owners Manual

Engine Coolant Heater
Your vehicle may have this feature. In very cold
weather, 0°F (−18°C) or colder, the engine coolant
heater can provide easier starting and better fuel
economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the
coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of
four hours prior to starting your vehicle. At temperatures
above 32°F (0°C), use of the coolant heater is not
required. Your vehicle may also have an internal
thermostat in the plug end of the cord. This will prevent
operation of the engine coolant heater when the
temperature is at or above 0°F (−18°C) as noted
on the cord.
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
1. Turn off the engine.
2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The
engine coolant heater cord is located near the
engine air cleaner/lter. SeeEngine Compartment
Overview on page 5-12for more information on
location.
3. Plug the cord into a normal, grounded
110-volt AC outlet.
{CAUTION:
Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet
could cause an electrical shock. Also, the
wrong kind of extension cord could overheat
and cause a re. You could be seriously
injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded
three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord will
not reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong
extension cord rated for at least 15 amps.
4. Before starting the engine, be sure to unplug and
store the cord as it was before to keep it away
from moving engine parts. If you do not, it could
be damaged.
How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged
in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the
kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead
of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact
your dealer in the area where you will be parking
your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice
for that particular area.
2-23

Instrument Panel Overview...............................3-4
Hazard Warning Flashers................................3-6
Other Warning Devices...................................3-6
Horn.............................................................3-6
Tilt Wheel.....................................................3-6
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever.........................3-7
Turn and Lane-Change Signals........................3-8
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer..................3-8
Flash-to-Pass.................................................3-8
Windshield Wipers..........................................3-9
Windshield Washer.......................................3-10
Cruise Control..............................................3-10
Headlamps..................................................3-13
Headlamps on Reminder................................3-13
Headlamps Off in PARK (P)...........................3-14
Delayed Headlamps......................................3-14
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).......................3-14
Automatic Headlamp System..........................3-15
Fog Lamps..................................................3-16
Instrument Panel Brightness...........................3-16
Dome Lamp.................................................3-16
Entry/Exit Lighting.........................................3-17
Overhead Console Reading Lamps.................3-17
Trunk Lamp.................................................3-17
Battery Run-Down Protection..........................3-17
Accessory Power Outlets...............................3-18Climate Controls............................................3-19
Climate Control System.................................3-19
Outlet Adjustment.........................................3-23
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators............3-24
Instrument Panel Cluster................................3-24
Speedometer and Odometer...........................3-26
Trip Odometer..............................................3-26
Tachometer.................................................3-26
Safety Belt Reminder Light.............................3-26
Airbag Readiness Light..................................3-27
Charging System Light..................................3-28
Brake System Warning Light..........................3-28
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light.............3-29
Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light...........................................3-30
Traction Control System Active Light.................3-30
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage..................3-30
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.............................3-31
Oil Pressure Light.........................................3-34
Security Light...............................................3-35
Cruise Control Light......................................3-35
Highbeam On Light.......................................3-35
Service Vehicle Soon Light............................3-35
Fuel Gage...................................................3-36
Low Fuel Warning Light.................................3-36
Section 3 Instrument Panel
3-1

:(Outside Air):Press the right side of this button to
turn the outside air mode on. When this mode is selected,
air from outside the vehicle will circulate throughout your
vehicle. When the button is pressed, an indicator light will
come on to let you know that it is activated. The outside
air mode can be used with all modes, but it cannot be
used with the recirculation mode. Pressing this button will
cancel the recirculation mode.
?(Recirculation):Press the left side of the button to
turn the recirculation mode on. When recirculation mode
is selected, the air inside the vehicle will be recirculated
through the climate control system and the vehicle, not
from outside your vehicle. This mode is helpful when you
are trying to limit odors from entering your vehicle and for
maximum air conditioning performance in hot weather.
When the button is pressed, an indicator light above the
button will come on to let you know that it is activated.
The recirculation indicator light will blink three times if you
try to use recirculation in a mode that it can not be used
in. Only use this mode when it is needed for comfort,
since window fogging will rapidly occur if the air
conditioning compressor is not engaged.Pressing this button will cancel the outside air mode.
When you switch to the defog or defrost modes the
system will automatically move from recirculation to
outside air. When you move the mode knob back to
another air delivery mode, the system will move back into
recirculation. When the vehicle or fan is turned off and
back on, the system will default to outside air
automatically. Only use recirculation mode when it is
needed for comfort, since window fogging may occur.
Temperature Control:Turn the center knob clockwise
or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the
temperature inside your vehicle.
When it’s cold outside 0°F (−18°C) or lower, use the
engine coolant heater, if equipped, to provide warmer air
faster to your vehicle. An engine coolant heater warms
the coolant that the engine uses to provide heat to
warm the inside of your vehicle. For more information,
seeEngine Coolant Heater on page 2-23.
3-20

Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light
If the traction control
warning light comes on
and stays on, there may be
a problem with the
traction control system.
The traction control warning light will come on briey
when you turn the ignition to ON. If it does not come on
then, have it xed so it will be ready to warn you if
there is a problem. SeeTraction Control System (TCS)
on page 4-8for more information.
Traction Control System Active Light
This light will appear when
the traction control system
is limiting wheel spin.
You may feel or hear
the system working,
but this is normal.
Slippery road conditions may exist if this message
appears, so adjust your driving accordingly.The message will stay on for a few seconds after
the traction control system stops limiting wheel spin.
SeeTraction Control System (TCS) on page 4-8
for more information.
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
This gage shows the engine coolant temperature. If the
gage pointer moves into the red area, the light comes
on and you hear a chime, your engine is too hot!
It means that your engine coolant has overheated.
SeeEngine Overheating on page 5-22.
United StatesCanada
3-30

ENG PWR REDUCED:This message informs you that
the vehicle has reduced engine power to avoid
damaging the engine.
ICE POSSIBLE:This message appears when the
outside air temperature is cold enough to create icy
road conditions.
KEY FOB BATT LOW:This message is displayed if
the remote keyless entry transmitter battery is low.
LOW COOLANT:This message is displayed when there
is a low level of engine coolant. Have the cooling system
serviced by your GM dealer as soon as possible.
LOW FUEL:This message is displayed when your
vehicle is low on fuel. You should rell the tank as soon
as possible. You will also see a low fuel warning light
on the instrument panel cluster.
LOW WASHER FLUID:This message is displayed
when your vehicle is low on windshield washer uid.
You should rell the tank as soon as possible.PARKING BRAKE:This message is displayed if the
parking brake is left engaged and you try to drive away.
POWER STEERING:This message is displayed if a
problem has been detected with the electric power
steering. Have your vehicle serviced immediately
by your GM dealer.
SERVICE AIR BAG:There is a problem with the airbag
system when this message appears. Have your
vehicle serviced immediately by your GM dealer.
TRUNK AJAR:This message is displayed when the
trunk lid of your vehicle is not closed completely.
You should make sure that the trunk lid is closed
completely.
3-41

Automatic Transaxle Fluid
It is not necessary to check the transaxle uid level. A
transaxle uid leak is the only reason for uid loss.
If a leak occurs, take the vehicle to the dealership
service department and have it repaired as soon
as possible.
Change both the uid and lter every 50,000 miles
(83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or
more of these conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.
When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police or
delivery service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, the uid and lter do not require changing.
Notice:Use of automatic transaxle uid labeled
other than DEXRON
®-III, Approved for the
H-Specication, may damage your vehicle, and the
damages may not be covered by your warranty.
Always use automatic transaxle uid labeled
DEXRON
®-III, Approved for the H-Specication.
Engine Coolant
The cooling system in your vehicle is lled with
DEX-COOL®engine coolant. This coolant is designed
to remain in your vehicle for ve years or 150,000 miles
(240 000 km), whichever occurs rst, if you add only
DEX-COOL
®extended life coolant.
The following explains your cooling system and how to
add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem
with engine overheating, seeEngine Overheating on
page 5-22.
A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and
DEX-COOL
®coolant will:
Give freezing protection down to−34°F (−37°C).
Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
Protect against rust and corrosion.
Help keep the proper engine temperature.
Let the warning lights and gages work as
they should.
Notice:Using coolant other than DEX-COOL
®may
cause premature engine, heater core or radiator
corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may
require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km)
or 24 months, whichever occurs rst. Any repairs
would not be covered by your warranty. Always use
DEX-COOL
®(silicate-free) coolant in your vehicle.
5-19

Adding Coolant
If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL®
coolant mixtureat the surge tank,but only when the
engine is cool. If the surge tank is empty, a special ll
procedure is necessary. SeeEngine Overheating
on page 5-22andCooling System on page 5-24.
{CAUTION:
You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot
engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol,
and it will burn if the engine parts are hot
enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine.
When replacing the pressure cap, make sure it is
hand-tight.
Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
Notice:If the pressure cap is not tightly installed,
coolant loss and possible engine damage may
occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly
secured.
Engine Overheating
You will nd an engine coolant temperature gage on
your vehicle’s instrument panel. SeeEngine Coolant
Temperature Gage on page 3-30.
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
{CAUTION:
Steam from an overheated engine can burn
you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay
away from the engine if you see or hear steam
coming from it. Just turn it off and get
everyone away from the vehicle until it cools
down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or
coolant before you open the hood.
If you keep driving when your engine is
overheated, the liquids in it can catch re. You
or others could be badly burned. Stop your
engine if it overheats, and get out of the
vehicle until the engine is cool.
Notice:If your engine catches re because you
keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can
be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be
covered by your warranty.
5-22

Windshield Washer Fluid
What to Use
When you need windshield washer uid, be sure to read
the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will
be operating your vehicle in an area where the
temperature may fall below freezing, use a uid that has
sufficient protection against freezing.
Adding Washer Fluid
When the windshield washer uid reservoir is low, a
LOW WASHER FLUID message will be displayed on the
Driver Information Center (DIC). SeeDIC Warnings
and Messages on page 3-40for more information.
Open the cap with the
washer symbol on it. Add
washer uid until the
tank is full. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on
page 5-12for reservoir
location.Notice:
When using concentrated washer uid, follow
the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.
Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer uid.
Water can cause the solution to freeze and
damage your washer uid tank and other parts of
the washer system. Also, water does not clean as
well as washer uid.
Fill your washer uid tank only three-quarters full
when it is very cold. This allows for expansion if
freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if
it is completely full.
Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your
windshield washer. It can damage your washer
system and paint.
5-29

(h)Change automatic transaxle uid and lter if the
vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these
conditions:
In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
In hilly or mountainous terrain.
When doing frequent trailer towing.
Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery
service.
If you do not use your vehicle under any of these
conditions, the uid and lter do not require changing.
(i)Drain, ush and rell cooling system. This service can
be complex; you should have your dealer perform this
service. See Engine Coolant on page 5-19 for what
to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser,
pressure cap and ller neck. Pressure test the cooling
system and pressure cap.
(j)A uid loss in any vehicle system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and
the uid level checked. Add uid if needed.
(k)If you drive regularly under dusty conditions, inspect
the lter at each engine oil change.Owner Checks and Services
These owner checks and services should be performed
at the intervals specied to help ensure the safety,
dependability and emission control performance of your
vehicle. Your GM Goodwrench
®dealer can assist
you with these checks and services.
Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Whenever any uids or lubricants are added to your
vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown
inRecommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-12.
At Each Fuel Fill
It is important to perform these underhood checks at
each fuel ll.
Engine Oil Level Check
Check the engine oil level and add the proper oil if
necessary. SeeEngine Oil on page 5-13for further
details.
Notice:It is important to check your oil regularly
and keep it at the proper level. Failure to keep your
engine oil at the proper level can cause damage
to your engine not covered by your warranty.
6-8

Child Restraints (cont.)
Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for
Children (LATCH System)..........................1-39
Older Children.............................................1-28
Securing a Child Restraint Designed for
the LATCH System...................................1-41
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear
Seat Position...........................................1-42
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right
Front Seat Position...................................1-45
Top Strap...................................................1-37
Top Strap Anchor Location............................1-39
Where to Put the Restraint...........................1-37
Cleaning
Aluminum Wheels........................................5-71
Exterior Lamps/Lenses.................................5-69
Fabric/Carpet..............................................5-66
Finish Care.................................................5-70
Glass Surfaces............................................5-68
Instrument Panel.........................................5-68
Interior Plastic Components...........................5-68
Leather......................................................5-68
Tires..........................................................5-71
Underbody Maintenance...............................5-72
Vinyl..........................................................5-68
Washing Your Vehicle...................................5-69
Weatherstrips..............................................5-69
Windshield and Wiper Blades........................5-70Climate Control System...................................3-19
Outlet Adjustment........................................3-23
Comfort Guides, Rear Safety Belt.....................1-25
Compact Spare Tire........................................5-65
Content Theft-Deterrent....................................2-16
Control of a Vehicle.......................................... 4-5
Convenience Net............................................2-42
Coolant
Engine Temperature Gage............................3-30
Heater, Engine............................................2-23
Surge Tank Pressure Cap.............................5-22
Cooling System..............................................5-24
Cruise Control Lever.......................................3-10
Cruise Control Light........................................3-35
Cupholder(s)..................................................2-41
Customer Assistance Information
Courtesy Transportation.................................. 7-7
Customer Assistance for Text
Telephone (TTY) Users............................... 7-4
Customer Assistance Offices........................... 7-4
Customer Satisfaction Procedure..................... 7-2
GM Mobility Reimbursement Program............... 7-5
Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors....7-11
Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian
Government............................................7-11
Reporting Safety Defects to the United
States Government...................................7-10
Roadside Assistance Program......................... 7-5
Service Publications Ordering Information........7-11
3