wiper fluid PONTIAC FIREBIRD 1998 Owners Manual

Windshield Washer
There is a paddle with the word PUSH on it at the top of
the
turn signal lever. To spray washer fluid on the
windshield, just push the paddle for less than a second.
The washer will continue to spray until you release the
paddle. The wipers will clear the window and wipe
a
few more times before stopping or returning to the
previous setting. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in
the Index.
A CAUTION:
I
In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until
the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer
fluid can
form ice on the windshield, blocking
your vision.
Cruise Control
With cruise control, you can
maintain
a speed of about
25 mph (40 km/h) or more
without keeping
your foot
on the accelerator.
This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does
not work at speeds below about
25 mph (40 km/h).
2-49

Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet
road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good
as on
dry roads.
And,
if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get
even less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and be
cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The
surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are
tuned for driving on dry pavement.
The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even
if your
windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain
can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals,
pavement markings, the edge of the road and even
people walking.
It’s wise to keep. your windshield wiping equipment in
good shape
and keep your windshield washer tank filled
with washer fluid. Replace your windshield wiper inserts when
they show signs of streaking or missing
areas on the windshield, or when strips of rubber start to
separate from the inserts.
4-17

Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you
allow a reasonable following distance. Expect to move
slightly slower at night.
When
you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper
lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, do not,
under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to
the next exit.
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply.
The exit speed
is usually posted.
Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not
to
your sense of motion. After driving for any distance
at higher speeds, you may tend to
think you are going
slower than you actually are.
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
Make sure you’re ready. Try to be well rested. If you
must start when you’re not fresh
-- such as after a day’s
work
-- don’t plan to make too many miles that fiist part
of the journey. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you
can easily
drive in.
Is your vehicle ready for a long
trip? If you keep it
serviced and maintained, it’s ready
to go. If it needs service, have
it done before starting out. Of course,
you’ll find experienced and able service experts
in
Pontiac dealerships all across North America. They’ll be
ready and willing to help if you need it.
Here are some things you
can check before a trip:
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Windshield Washer Fluid: Is the reservoir full? Are
all windows clean inside and outside?
Wiper Blades: Are they in good shape?
Fuel, Engine Oil, Other Fluids: Have you checked
all levels?
Lamps: Are they all working? Are the lenses clean?
Tires: They are vitally important to a safe,
trouble-free
trip. Is the tread good enough for
long-distance driving? Are the tires
all inflated to the
recommended pressure?
Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook
along your route? Should you delay your trip a short
time
to avoid a major storm system?
Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps?
4-22

At Least Twice a Year Automatic Transmission Check
Restraint System Check
Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your
belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are
working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged
safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might
keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it
repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced.
Also look for any opened or broken air bag coverings,
and have them repaired or replaced. (The air bag system
does not need regular maintenance.)
Wiper Blade Check
Inspect wiper blades for wear or cracking. Replace blade
inserts that appear worn or damaged or that streak or
miss areas of the windshield. Also see “Wiper Blades,
Cleaning” in the Index.
Manual Transmission Check
Check the transmission fluid level; add if needed. See
‘‘Manual Transmission” in the Index. Check for leaks. A
fluid loss may indicate a problem. Have the system
inspected and repaired if needed. Check the transmission
fluid level; add
if needed. See
“Automatic Transmission” in the Index. A fluid
loss
may indicate a problem. Check the system and repair
if needed.
Hydraulic Clutch System Check
Check the fluid level in the clutch reservoir. See
“Hydraulic Clutch Fluid” in the Index.
A fluid loss in
this system could indicate a problem. Have the system
inspected and repaired at once.
At Least Once a Year
Key Lock Cylinders Service
Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant
specified in
Part D.
Body Lubrication Service
Lubricate all body door hinges. Also lubricate all hinges
and latches, including those for the hood, headlamp door
assemblies, rear compartment, console doors and any
folding seat hardware.
Part D tells you what to use.
More frequent lubrication may
be required when
exposed to a corrosive environment.
7-33

Transmitters. Matching to Your Vehicle .............. 2-9
Transmitters. Synchronization ...................... 2-8
Transportation. Courtesy .......................... 8-8
T-Top Sunshades ............................... 2-67
lTYUsers ..................................... 8-5
Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicators ............. 2-47
Turn SignaVMultifunction Lever ................... 2-46
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer ................ 4-37
Twin Lift-off Roof Panels ........................ 2-62
Tripodometer ................................. 2-79
underbody Flushing Service ..................... 7-35
Underbody Maintenance ......................... 6-60
Underhood Electrical Center ...................... 6-66
Vehicle
Controlofa
.................................. 4-5
Damagewarnings .............................. iv
Dimensions
................................. 6-70
Identification Number ......................... 6-62
Loading .................................... 4-30
Storage ..................................... 6-37
Ventilation System ............................... 3-6
Visor Vanity Mirror ............................. 2-61
Visors. Sun .................................... 2-61
Voltmeter ..................................... 2-8 1 warning
Devices
............................... 5-3
Warning Lights. Gages and Indicators ............... 2-79
Warranty Information ............................ 8-10
Washer Fluid. Windshield .................. 2-49. 6-32
Washing Your Vehicle ........................... 6-57
Weatherstrips .................................. 6-57
wheel
Alignment .................................. 6-51
Nut Torque ............................. 5.37. 6.68
Replacement ................................. 6-51
Wrench ..................................... 5-30
Windows ..................................... 2-45
Manual ..................................... 2-45
Power ...................................... 2-45
Windshield Washer ............................. 2-49
Fluid .................................. 2.49. 6.32
Fluid Level Check ............................ 7-32
Windshield Wipers .............................. 2-48
Blade Replacement ........................... 6-42
Fuses ...................................... 6-63
Winter Driving ................................. 4-25
Wiper Blade Check ............................. 7-33
Wiring. Headlamp .............................. 6-63
WreckerTowing ................................. 5-8
Wrench. Wheel. ................................ 5-30
9-12