warning lights PONTIAC G6 2008 Owners Manual

Page 1 of 408

Seats and Restraint Systems........................... 1-1
Front Seats
............................................... 1-2
Rear Seats
..............................................1-11
Safety Belts
.............................................1-13
Child Restraints
.......................................1-33
Airbag System
.........................................1-59
Restraint System Check
............................1-74
Features and Controls..................................... 2-1
Keys
........................................................ 2-3
Doors and Locks
......................................2-10
Windows
.................................................2-15
Theft-Deterrent Systems
............................2-18
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle
...........2-21
Mirrors
....................................................2-37
OnStar
®System
......................................2-41
Storage Areas
.........................................2-44
Sunroof
..................................................2-45
Retractable Hardtop
..................................2-45
Instrument Panel............................................. 3-1
Instrument Panel Overview
.......................... 3-4
Climate Controls
......................................3-19
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators
........3-27
Driver Information Center (DIC)
..................3-43
Audio System(s)
.......................................3-52Driving Your Vehicle....................................... 4-1
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle
..... 4-2
Towing
...................................................4-25
Service and Appearance Care.......................... 5-1
Service
..................................................... 5-4
Fuel
......................................................... 5-6
Checking Things Under the Hood
...............5-12
Bulb Replacement
....................................5-51
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
.........5-59
Tires
......................................................5-60
Appearance Care
...................................5-100
Vehicle Identication
...............................5-109
Electrical System
....................................5-109
Capacities and Specications
...................5-119
Maintenance Schedule..................................... 6-1
Maintenance Schedule
................................ 6-2
Customer Assistance Information.................... 7-1
Customer Assistance and Information
........... 7-2
Reporting Safety Defects
...........................7-14
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy
...........7-16
Index................................................................ 1
2008 Pontiac G6 Owner ManualM

Page 102 of 408

Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition
switch, you can turn it to
four different positions.
Notice:Using a tool to force the key from the
ignition switch could cause damage or break the
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with
your hand. Make sure the key is in all the way. If
none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.
9(LOCK/OFF):This is the only position from
which you can remove the key. The shift lever must be
in PARK (P) with the ignition in LOCK/OFF to remove
the key.ACC (ACC/ACCESSORY):This position unlocks the
transmission. It also lets you use things like the
radio and windshield wipers while the engine is not
running. To use ACC/ACCESSORY, turn the key
clockwise to the rst position. Use this position if your
vehicle must be pushed or towed. SeeRecreational
Vehicle Towing on page 4-26.
Never try to push-start your vehicle.
R(ON/RUN):This position is where the key returns to
after you start the engine and release the key. The
ignition switch will stay in this position while the engine
is running. But even while the engine is not running,
you can use ON/RUN to operate your electrical
accessories and to display some instrument panel
warning lights. Use the ON/RUN position for
push-starting a vehicle with a manual transmission.
The battery could be drained if you leave the key in the
ACC/ACCESSORY or ON/RUN position with the
engine off. You may not be able to start your vehicle if
the battery is allowed to drain for an extended period
of time.
/(START):This position starts the engine. When the
engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch
will return to the ON/RUN position for normal driving.
2-22

Page 133 of 408

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................................3-14
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
Courtesy Lamps...........................................3-16
Dome Lamp.................................................3-17
Entry/Exit Lighting.........................................3-17
Parade Dimming...........................................3-17Overhead Console Reading Lamps.................3-17
Trunk Lamp.................................................3-17
Battery Run-Down Protection..........................3-18
Accessory Power Outlet(s).............................3-18
Climate Controls............................................3-19
Climate Control System.................................3-19
Automatic Climate Control System...................3-23
Outlet Adjustment.........................................3-26
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators............3-27
Instrument Panel Cluster...............................
.3-28
Speedometer and Odometer...........................3-29
Trip Odometer..............................................3-29
Tachometer.................................................3-29
Safety Belt Reminders...................................3-30
Airbag Readiness Light..................................3-30
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator...................3-31
Charging System Light..................................3-33
Brake System Warning Light..........................3-34
Antilock Brake System Warning Light...............3-35
Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light...........................................3-35
Traction Control System (TCS) Active Light......3-36
StabiliTrak
®Not Ready Light..........................3-36
Section 3 Instrument Panel
3-1

Page 159 of 408

Operation Tips
Clear away any ice, snow or leaves from the air
inlets at the base of the windshield that can
block the ow of air into your vehicle.
Use of non-GM approved hood deectors can
adversely affect the performance of the system.
Keep the path under the front seats clear of objects
to help circulate the air inside of your vehicle more
effectively.
When an objectionable odor outside the vehicle is
encountered, use the recirculation mode, with the
temperature knob at a comfortable setting to prevent
the odor from entering the vehicle through the
ventilation system. This can be helpful when driving
through a long tunnel with poor ventilation.
However, extended usage of this mode in cold or
cool weather can cause window fogging.
Warning Lights, Gages, and
Indicators
This section describes the warning lights and gages on
your vehicle.
Warning lights and gages can signal that something is
wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause
an expensive repair or replacement. Paying attention to
the warning lights and gages could also save you or
others from injury.
Warning lights come on when there may be or is a
problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As the
details show on the next few pages, some warning lights
come on briey when you start the engine just to let you
know they are working. If you are familiar with this
section, you should not be alarmed when this happens.
Gages can indicate when there may be or is a problem
with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages
and warning lights work together to let you know when
there is a problem with your vehicle.
When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on
as you are driving, or when one of the gages shows
there may be a problem, check the section that tells you
what to do about it. Please follow this manual’s
advice. Waiting to do repairs can be costly and even
dangerous. So get to know your vehicle’s warning lights
and gages. They can be a big help.
3-27

Page 165 of 408

If, after several seconds, both status indicator lights
remain on, or if there are no lights at all, there may be a
problem with the lights or the passenger sensing
system. See your dealer/retailer for service.
{CAUTION:
If the airbag readiness light in the instrument
panel cluster ever comes on and stays on, it
means that something may be wrong with the
airbag system. If this ever happens, have the
vehicle serviced promptly, because an
adult-size person sitting in the right front
passenger’s seat may not have the protection
of the airbag(s). SeeAirbag Readiness Light
on page 3-30for more on this, including
important safety information.
Charging System Light
This light will come on
briey when you turn on
the ignition, but the engine
is not running, as a
check to show you it is
working.
It should go out once the engine is running. If it stays
on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a
problem with the charging system. A charging system
Driver Information Center (DIC) message may also
appear. SeeDIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-46
for more information. This light could indicate that you
have problems with a generator drive belt, or another
electrical problem. Have it checked right away. If
you must drive a short distance with the light on, be
certain to turn off all your accessories, such as the radio
and air conditioner.
3-33

Page 178 of 408

Exterior Perimeter Lighting During Remote Keyless
Entry Unlock
Select Language: (English, French, Spanish or
German)
When the desired option is reached, press the enter
button to toggle between the modes of that option. To
make a selection, press the MENU button again.
If no selection is made within 10 seconds, the display
reverts back to the previous information displayed.
The MENU mode is exited when the information button
is pressed, a 10 second time period has elapsed,
the ignition is turned off, or the end of the MENU list is
reached.
SeeDIC Vehicle Personalization on page 3-50for more
information on the personalization options.
Enter
ENTER/r(Enter):Press this button to reset certain
functions and to turn off or acknowledge messages
on the DIC display. This button also toggles through the
options available in each personalization menu.
DIC Warnings and Messages
These messages appear if there is a problem detected
in one of your vehicle’s systems.
A message clears when the vehicle’s condition is no
longer present. To acknowledge a message and clear it
from the display, press and hold any of the DIC
buttons. If the condition is still present, the warning
message comes back on the next time the vehicle is
turned off and back on. With most messages, a warning
chime sounds when the message displays. Your
vehicle may have other warning messages.
AUTO (Automatic) LIGHTS OFF
This message displays if the automatic headlamp
system is disabled with the headlamp switch.
AUTO (Automatic) LIGHTS ON
This message displays if the automatic headlamp
system is enabled with the headlamp switch.
BRAKE FLUID
This message displays, while the ignition is on, when
the brake uid level is low. The brake system warning
light on the instrument panel cluster also comes on. See
Brake System Warning Light on page 3-34for more
information. Have the brake system serviced by
your dealer/retailer as soon as possible.
3-46

Page 266 of 408

Automatic Transmission Fluid
(2.4L L4, 3.5L and 3.6L V6 Engines)
It is not necessary to check the transmission uid
level. A transmission uid leak is the only reason for
uid loss. If a leak occurs, take your vehicle to the
dealer/retailer and have it repaired as soon as possible.
Change the uid and lter at the intervals listed in
Additional Required Services on page 6-6, and be sure
to use the transmission uid listed inRecommended
Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
Notice:Use of the incorrect automatic transmission
uid may damage your vehicle, and the damages
may not be covered by your warranty. Always
use the automatic transmission uid listed in
Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-13.
For the 3.5L and 3.6L engines, the transmission uid
will not reach the end of the dipstick unless the
transmission is at operating temperature. If you need to
check the transmission uid level, please take your
vehicle to your dealer/retailer.
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 the cooling system and how to add
coolant when it is low. If there is a problem with engine
overheating, seeEngine Overheating on page 5-33.
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 the rst maintenance
service after each 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.
5-30

Page 401 of 408

LATCH System
Child Restraints...........................................1-44
Latches, Seatback............................................ 1-8
License Plate Lamps.......................................5-58
Lift Seat, Power..............................................1-11
Light
Airbag Readiness........................................3-30
Antilock Brake System Warning.....................3-35
Brake System Warning.................................3-34
Charging System.........................................3-33
Cruise Control.............................................3-42
Highbeam On.............................................3-42
Low Fuel Warning.......................................3-42
Malfunction Indicator....................................3-38
Oil Pressure...............................................3-41
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator..................3-31
Safety Belt Reminders..................................3-30
Security.....................................................3-41
StabiliTrak
®Indicator....................................3-36
StabiliTrak®Not Ready.................................3-36
TCS Warning Light......................................3-35
Tire Pressure..............................................3-37
Traction Control System Active......................3-36
Traction Control System (TCS) Warning..........3-35Lighting
Entry/Exit...................................................3-17
Parade Dimming..........................................3-17
Lights............................................................3-13
Flash-to-Pass............................................... 3-8
High/Low Beam Changer................................ 3-8
On Reminder..............................................3-14
Loading Your Vehicle.......................................4-20
Lockout Protection..........................................2-13
Locks
Automatic Door Lock....................................2-11
Delayed Locking..........................................2-11
Door..........................................................2-10
Lockout Protection.......................................2-13
Power Door................................................2-10
Programmable Automatic Door Unlock............2-12
Rear Door Security Locks.............................2-12
Loss of Control...............................................4-10
Low Fuel Warning Light...................................3-42
Lowering the Retractable Hardtop......................2-46
Lumbar
Manual Controls............................................ 1-3
7

Page 407 of 408

Transmission Operation, Automatic....................2-27
Trip Odometer................................................3-29
Trunk............................................................2-13
Trunk Lamps..................................................3-17
Turn and Lane-Change Signals.......................... 3-8
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever........................... 3-7
U
Uniform Tire Quality Grading............................5-82
Using this Manual............................................... iii
V
Vehicle
Control........................................................ 4-3
Damage Warnings........................................... iv
Loading......................................................4-20
Symbols......................................................... iv
Vehicle Data Recording and Privacy..................7-16
Vehicle Identication
Number (VIN)............................................5-109
Service Parts Identication Label..................5-109Vehicle Personalization
DIC ...........................................................3-50
Vehicle, Remote Start....................................... 2-7
Ventilation Adjustment......................................3-26
Visors...........................................................2-18
W
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators................3-27
Warnings
DIC Warnings and Messages........................3-46
Hazard Warning Flashers............................... 3-6
Other Warning Devices.................................. 3-6
Safety and Symbols......................................... iii
Vehicle Damage.............................................. iv
Wheels
Alignment and Tire Balance..........................5-83
Different Size..............................................5-81
Replacement...............................................5-83
Where to Put the Restraint...............................1-42
Windows.......................................................2-15
Power........................................................2-16
13