engine PONTIAC GTO 2004 Owners Manual

Vehicle Damage Warnings
Also, in this book you will find these notices:
Notice:These mean there is something that could
damage your vehicle.
A notice will tell you about something that can damage
your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be
covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the
notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the
damage.
When you read other manuals, you might see
CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors
or in different words.
You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use
the same words, CAUTION or NOTICE.
Vehicle Symbols
Your vehicle has components and labels that use
symbols instead of text. Symbols, used on your vehicle,
are shown along with the text describing the operation
or information relating to a specific component, control,
message, gage or indicator.
If you need help figuring out a specific name of a
component, gage or indicator, reference the following
topics:
•Seats and Restraint Systems in Section 1
•Features and Controls in Section 2
•Instrument Panel Overview in Section 3
•Climate Controls in Section 3
•Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators in Section 3
•Audio System(s) in Section 3
•Engine Compartment Overview in Section 5
iv

{CAUTION:
When an air bag inates, there is dust in the
air. This dust could cause breathing problems
for people with a history of asthma or other
breathing trouble. To avoid this, everyone in
the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe
to do so. If you have breathing problems but
can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag
inates, then get fresh air by opening a
window or a door. If you experience breathing
problems following an air bag deployment, you
should seek medical attention.
Your vehicle has a feature that will automatically unlock
the doors, turn off the engine, turn off the fuel pump,
and turn the interior lamps on when the air bags inflate
(if battery power is available). You can operate these
features by switching the ignition OFF and then ON.
In many crashes severe enough to inflate an air
bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation.
Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the
right front passenger air bag.
•Air bags are designed to inflate only once. After an
air bag inflates, you will need some new parts for
your air bag system. If you do not get them, the air
bag system will not be there to help protect you
in another crash. A new system will include air bag
modules and possibly other parts. The service
manual for your vehicle covers the need to replace
other parts.
•Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and
diagnostic module, which records information
about the frontal air bag system. The module
records information about the readiness of the
system, when the system commands air bag
inflation and driver’s safety belt usage at
deployment. The module also records speed,
engine rpm, brake and throttle data.
•Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag
systems. Improper service can mean that an air
bag system will not work properly. See your dealer
for service.
Notice:If you damage the covering for the driver’s
or the right front passenger’s air bag, the bag
may not work properly. You may have to replace the
air bag module in the steering wheel or both the
air bag module and the instrument panel for
the right front passenger’s air bag. Do not open or
break the air bag coverings.
1-51

Keys...............................................................2-2
Remote Keyless Entry System.........................2-4
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation...........2-5
Doors and Locks.............................................2-6
Door Locks....................................................2-6
Leaving Your Vehicle......................................2-7
Trunk............................................................2-8
Windows........................................................2-10
Power Windows............................................2-11
Sun Visors...................................................2-12
Theft-Deterrent Systems..................................2-12
Theft-Deterrent System..................................2-12
Immobilizer..................................................2-12
Immobilizer Operation....................................2-13
Content Theft-Deterrent.................................2-14
Starting and Operating Your Vehicle................2-15
New Vehicle Break-In....................................2-15
Ignition Positions..........................................2-16
Starting Your Engine.....................................2-17Automatic Transmission Operation...................2-18
Manual Transmission Operation......................2-21
Parking Brake..............................................2-23
Shifting Into Park (P).....................................2-24
Shifting Out of Park (P).................................2-26
Parking Your Vehicle/Key Removal..................2-26
Parking Over Things That Burn.......................2-27
Engine Exhaust............................................2-27
Running Your Engine While You Are Parked. . . .2-28
Mirrors...........................................................2-29
Manual Rearview Mirror.................................2-29
Outside Power Mirrors...................................2-29
Outside Convex Mirror...................................2-30
Storage Areas................................................2-30
Glove Box...................................................2-30
Cupholder(s)................................................2-31
Front Storage Area.......................................2-31
Center Console Storage Area.........................2-31
Vehicle Personalization...................................2-32
Section 2 Features and Controls
2-1

Remote Keyless Entry System
Operation
The buttons on your key
allow you to lock and
unlock your doors
or unlock your trunk.
When pressing the key buttons, ensure that other keys
on the key ring are not between the main key and
the vehicle. Other keys can obscure the signal being
transmitted to the vehicle.
When a button on the key is pressed, it sends a signal
to the vehicle. The receiver of the signal is a small
rectangle on top of the dashboard, in the center. The
receiver is also used to measure sunlight. It is important
that the receiver is clean, not covered, and that there
are no metal objects close by, as this may block
the signals.LOCK:Press this button on the key to lock all the
doors, disable the engine, and set the alarm. The
vehicle’s turn signals will briefly flash.
If you prefer to have the turn signals flash accompanied
by the horn sounding, the LOCK feature can be
changed. SeeVehicle Personalization on page 2-32.
The LOCK button on the key will not work if the ignition
is turned on or if the driver’s door is open.
UNLOCK:Press this button on the key to unlock the
doors. The turn signals will flash twice, and the horn will
chirp twice, if selected through vehicle personalization.
The interior light will also turn on for a short time. If
UNLOCK is pressed once, the driver’s door will unlock.
If UNLOCK is pressed a second time, or is held
down for more than half a second, all the doors will
unlock. If you prefer to have all the doors unlock with a
single press, the unlock feature can be changed to
unlock all doors. See “Two Stage Unlock” underVehicle
Personalization on page 2-32.
If the lock system is overloaded as a result of repeated
use in a short time interval, the power supply is cut
off for about 30 seconds. The door lock system
has been designed to make the vehicle horn chirp
rapidly five times if it detects a fault in the lock system
when the LOCK button is pressed. You should check to
see that the doors have locked.
2-5

Trunk
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid
open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can
come into your vehicle. You can not see or
smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and
even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid
open or if electrical wiring or other cable
connections must pass through the seal
between the body and the trunk lid:
Make sure all other windows are shut.
Turn the fan on your heating or cooling
system to its highest speed and select the
control setting that will force outside air
into your vehicle. See Climate Control
System in the Index.
If you have air outlets on or under the
instrument panel, open them all the way.
SeeEngine Exhaust on page 2-27.
Trunk Lock
To unlock the trunk, press the open trunk symbol on the
key. The button on the key must be pressed for more
than half a second and travelling speed must be
less than 12 mph (20 km/h) for the signal to work. When
the trunk is unlocked, it can then be fully opened from
the outside. SeeRemote Keyless Entry System
Operation on page 2-5for more information.
After partly opening the trunk lid, gas struts automatically
take over to lift and hold the trunk lid in the fully open
position. The trunk locks automatically when pushed
shut, so be careful not to leave keys in the trunk. They
will be locked in when it is shut.
2-8

Immobilizer Operation
Your vehicle may have a passive theft-deterrent system.
The system is an electronic engine immobilizer, which
disables the car, when the key is removed from the
ignition.
The system works when you turn the key to ON. The
key uses a transponder that matches an immobilizer
control unit in your vehicle. The correct key will start
the vehicle.
Your vehicle has a special key that works with the
theft-deterrent system. There is a transponder in the key
head. If the key is ever damaged, you may not be
able to start your vehicle.
When trying to start the vehicle, if the engine does not
start and the security light comes on, the key may
have a damaged transponder. Turn the ignition off and
try again.If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to
be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time,
you may also want to check the fuse. SeeFuses
and Circuit Breakers on page 5-87for more information
on fuses. If the engine still does not start with the
other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle
does start, the first key may be faulty. See your dealer
who can service the theft-deterrent system to have
a new key made.
If you are ever driving and the security light comes on
and stays on, you will be able to restart your engine
if you turn it off. The theft-deterrent system, however, is
not working properly and must be serviced by your
dealer. Your vehicle is not protected by the
theft-deterrent system at this time.
In an emergency, contact Roadside Assistance. See
Roadside Assistance Program on page 7-5.
2-13

Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn it to
three different positions.
A (LOCK and ACCESSORY):This is the only position
from which you can insert or remove the key. When
the key is inserted and is in this position, all accessories,
electrical systems, and engine are off. If the key is
cycled back to this position the accessories will remain
on until the key is removed. Once the key is removed
the accessories will turn off. If the key is left inserted in
this position, a chime will sound when the driver’sdoor is opened to remind you the key has been left in
the ignition. The key can only be turned to this position if
the vehicle’s automatic transmission is in PARK (P).
To help guard against theft, your vehicle’s engine
is automatically disabled shortly after turning the key to
this position. This is indicated by the flashing padlock
symbol on the bottom left corner of the instrument panel.
The steering column is automatically locked when the
key is removed. To release the steering wheel, insert the
key again and turn it towards the front of the vehicle.
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 all the way in. If
it is, turn the steering wheel left and right while you
turn the key hard. If none of this works, then
your vehicle needs service.
B (ON and ACCESSORY):This position is where the
key returns to after you start your engine and release the
key. The ignition switch stays in ON when the engine
is running. But even when the engine is not running, you
can use ON to operate your electrical accessories
and to display some instrument panel warning lights.
C (START):This position starts the engine. When
the engine starts, release the key. The ignition switch
will return to ON for normal driving.
2-16

Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
Your vehicle is equipped with a Retained Accessory
Power (RAP) feature which will allow the radio to
continue to work for one hour after the ignition is turned
to OFF. The windows will also be accessible for
15 minutes or until either door is opened.
Starting Your Engine
Automatic Transmission
Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N).
Your engine won’t start in any other position – that’s a
safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving,
use NEUTRAL (N) only.
Notice:Do not try to shift to PARK (P) if your
vehicle is moving. If you do, you could damage the
transmission. Shift to PARK (P) only when your
vehicle is stopped.
Manual Transmission
The shift lever should be in neutral and the parking
brake engaged. Hold the clutch pedal to the floor and
start the engine. Your vehicle won’t start if the clutch
pedal is not all the way down – that’s a safety feature.
Starting Your Engine
1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal and the
parking brake firmly applied, turn your ignition
key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the
key. The idle speed will go down as your engine
gets warm.
Notice:Holding your key in START for longer than
15 seconds at a time will cause your battery to
be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat
can damage your starter motor. Wait about
15 seconds between each try to help avoid draining
your battery or damaging your starter.
2. If it doesn’t start, wait about 15 seconds and try
again to start the engine by turning the ignition
key to START. Wait about 15 seconds between
each try.
When your engine has run about 10 seconds to
warm up, your vehicle is ready to be driven. Don’t
run your engine at high speeds when it is cold.
If the weather is below freezing (32°F or 0°C), let
the engine run for a few minutes to warm up.
Notice:Your engine is designed to work with the
electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical
parts or accessories, you could change the way the
engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment,
check with your dealer. If you do not, your engine
might not perform properly.
2-17

Racing or Other Competitive Driving
See your warranty book before using your vehicle
for racing or other competitive driving.
Notice:If you use your vehicle for racing or other
competitive driving, the engine may use more
oil than it would with normal use. Low oil levels can
damage the engine. Be sure to check the oil level
often during racing or other competitive driving and
keep the level at or near 1 quart (1 L) above the
upper mark that shows the proper operating range
on the engine oil dipstick. For information on
how to add oil, seeEngine Oil on page 5-13. After
the competitive driving, remove excess oil so
that the level on the dipstick is not above the upper
mark that shows the proper operating range.
Automatic Transmission Operation
There are several different positions for your shift
lever. Push in the button on top of the shift lever when
shifting into position.PARK (P):The engine can be started in this position.
This position prevents the rear wheels from turning
and so should be selected, together with the parking
brake, when leaving the vehicle. Never select PARK (P)
while your vehicle is still moving.
{CAUTION:
It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the
shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the
parking brake rmly set. Your vehicle can roll.
Do not leave your vehicle when the engine is
running unless you have to. If you have left the
engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured. To
be sure your vehicle will not move, even when
you are on fairly level ground, always set your
parking brake and move the shift lever to
PARK (P). SeeShifting Into Park (P) on
page 2-24. If you are pulling a trailer, see
Towing a Trailer on page 4-35.
2-18

Ensure the shift lever is fully in PARK (P) before starting
the engine. Your vehicle has an automatic transmission
shift lock control system. You must have your foot
on the regular brakes before you can shift from
PARK (P) when the ignition key is in ON. The vehicle
will not shift from PARK (P) if the button is pressed
before the brake is applied. If you cannot shift out
of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever, push the
shift lever all the way into PARK (P), and release the
shift lever button as you maintain brake application.
Then press the shift lever button and move the
shift lever into the desired gear. SeeShifting Out of
Park (P) on page 2-26.
REVERSE (R):Use this gear to back up. Never select
REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is still moving.
Reverse lights will operate when this position is selected
and the ignition is on. After reversing, make sure the
vehicle has fully stopped before selecting another gear
position. After selecting this position, pause for a
moment before accelerating to allow the transmission to
engage reverse gear.
Notice:Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle
is moving forward could damage the transmission.
The repairs would not be covered by your warranty.
Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is
stopped.To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow,
ice or sand without damaging your transmission,
see If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow on
page 4-28.
NEUTRAL (N):In this position, your engine doesn’t
connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already
moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use
NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. This is
the out-of-gear position. You may then start a stalled
engine while the vehicle is still moving or stopped.
{CAUTION:
Shifting into a drive gear while your engine is
running at high speed is dangerous. Unless
your foot is rmly on the brake pedal, your
vehicle could move very rapidly. You could
lose control and hit people or objects. Do not
shift into a drive gear while your engine is
running at high speed.
Notice:Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N)
with the engine running at high speed may damage
the transmission. The repairs would not be
covered by your warranty. Be sure the engine is not
running at high speed when shifting your vehicle.
2-19