wiper blades PONTIAC FIREBIRD 1999 Owners Manual

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2-45
As you signal a turn or a lane change, if the arrows don't
flash but just stay on as you signal a turn or lane change,
a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won't
see your turn signal.
If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an
accident. If the arrows don't go on at all when you
signal a turn, check the fuse (see ªFuses and Circuit
Breakersº in the Index).
Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer
When the high beams
are on, this light on the
instrument panel also
will be on.
To change the headlamps from low beam to high or
from high beam to low, pull the turn signal lever all the
way toward you. Then release it.
Windshield Wipers
You control the windshield wipers by turning the band
with the wiper symbol on it, located on the turn
signal/multifunction lever.
For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold
it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will
stop after one cycle. If you want more cycles, hold the
band on MIST longer.
You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay
between wipes. This can be very useful in light rain or
snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The
closer to LO, the shorter the delay.
For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away
from you to the LO position. For high
-speed wiping,
turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, turn the
band to OFF.
Damaged wiper blades may prevent you from seeing
well enough to drive safely. To avoid damage, be sure to
clear ice and snow from the wiper blades before using
them. If they're frozen to the windshield, carefully
loosen or thaw them. If your blades do become
damaged, get new blades or blade inserts.
Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit
breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away
snow or ice to prevent an overload.

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4-18
Driving in Rain and on Wet RoadsRain 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.

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4-23
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 first 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:

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?

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6-44
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least
twice a year for wear or cracking. See ªWiper Blade
Checkº in Section 7 of this manual under Part B ªOwner
Checks and Servicesº for more information.
Replacement blades come in different types and are
removed in different ways. For the proper type and
length, see ªNormal Maintenance Replacement Partsº in
the Index.1. Pull the windshield wiper arm away from
the windshield.
2. Push the release lever and slide the wiper assembly
toward the driver's side of the vehicle.
3. Install a new blade by reversing Steps 1 and 2.

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6-58
Cleaning Glass Surfaces
Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a
liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal
tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. (See
ªAppearance Care and Materialsº in the Index.)
Don't use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may
cause scratches. Avoid placing decals on the inside rear
window, since they may have to be scraped off later. If
abrasive cleaners are used on the inside of the rear
window, an electric defogger element may be damaged.
Any temporary license should not be attached across the
defogger grid.
Cleaning the Outside of the
Windshield and Wiper Blades
If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield
washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running,
wax, sap or other material may be on the blade
or windshield.
Clean the outside of the windshield with GM
Windshield Cleaner, Bon Ami

Powder (non-scratching
glass cleaning powder), GM Part No. 1050011. The
windshield is clean if beads do not form when you rinse
it with water.Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades
and affect their performance. Clean the blade by wiping
vigorously with a cloth soaked in full
-strength
windshield washer solvent. Then rinse the blade
with water.
Check the wiper blades and clean them as necessary;
replace blades that look worn.
Weatherstrips
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth at least every six
months. During very cold, damp weather more frequent
application may be required. (See ªRecommended
Fluids and Lubricantsº in the Index.)
Cleaning a Removable Roof Panel
Special care is necessary when cleaning, removing
and/or storing the roof panel.

Flush with water to remove dust and dirt, then dry
the panel.

Clean the panel with GM Glass Cleaner. Leave the
cleaner on the panel for one minute, then wipe the
panel with a soft, lint
-free cloth.

Don't use abrasive cleaning materials.

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7-18
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 ªWiper Blades,
Cleaningº in the Index.
Weatherstrip Lubrication
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last
longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply
silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold,
damp weather more frequent application may be
required. (See ªRecommended Fluids and Lubricantsº
in the Index.)
Manual Transmission Check
Check the transmission fluid level; add if needed. See
ªManual Transmission Fluidº in the Index. Check for
leaks. A fluid loss may indicate a problem. Have the
system inspected and repaired if needed.Automatic Transmission Check
Check the transmission fluid level; add if needed. See
ªAutomatic Transmission Fluidº 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
ªHydraulic Clutch Fluidº 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.

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9-3
Cleaner, Air 6-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning
Aluminum Wheels 6
-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chrome-Plated Wheels 6-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convertible Top 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior Lamps/Lenses 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fabric/Carpet 6-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glass Surfaces 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inside of Your Vehicle 6-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument Panel 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior Plastic Components 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Leather 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside of Your Vehicle 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removable Roof Panel 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Special Problems 6-56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stains 6-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tires 6-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vinyl 6-57 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheels 6-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield and Wiper Blades 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning, Wiper Blades 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clock, Setting the 3-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Comfort Controls 3-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Disc Care 3-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Disc Player 3-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Care 3-22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Errors 3-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trunk-Mounted CD Changer 3-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Spare Tire 5-36 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Content Theft-Deterrent System 2-13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Control
Loss Of 4
-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle 4-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Convertible Top 2
-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cleaning 6-60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing the Boot Cover 2-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lowering 2-66 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Raising 2-71 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing the Boot Cover 2-70 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Convex Outside Mirror 2-55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Coolant 6-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking 6-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Heater, Engine 2-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recovery Tank 5-15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Temperature Gage 2-82 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What to Use 6-28 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cooling System 5-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Courtesy Lamps 2-52 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Courtesy Transportation 8-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise Control 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone Users 8-5 . . . . . . . . .
Customer Assistance Information 8-1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Customer Satisfaction Procedure 8-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage, Finish 6-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage, Sheet Metal 6-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Daytime Running Lamps 2-50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dead Battery 5-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defects, Reporting Safety 8-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defensive Driving 4-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defogger, Rear Window 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defogging 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Defrosting 3-4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions, Vehicle 6-73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dolby B Noise Reduction 3-8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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9-12
Trailer (Continued)
Towing 4-33 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals 4-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weight 4-34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission Fluid, Automatic 6-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmission Fluid, Manual 6-24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmitters, Matching to Your Vehicle 2-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transmitters, Remote Keyless Entry 2-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Transportation, Courtesy 8-10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trip
Before Leaving On A Long 4
-23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer 2-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Oil Reset 2-77 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trunk-Mounted CD Changer 3-12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TTY Users 8-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator 2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 2-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer 4-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Twin Lift-Off Roof Panels 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing 2-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing 2-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storing 2-61 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
T-Top Sunshades 2-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Flushing Service 7-20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underbody Maintenance 6-62 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Underhood Electrical Center 6-69 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle
Control 4-6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Damage Warnings iv. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dimensions 6
-73 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Identification Number 6
-64 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Loading 4-31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Recreational Towing 4-30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Storage 6-38 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ventilation System 3-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Visor
Sun 2
-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vanity Mirrors 2-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltmeter 2-79 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning Devices 5-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators 2-78 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Warranty Information 8-11 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Washer Fluid, Windshield 6-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Washing Your Vehicle 6-59 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Weatherstrips 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wheel
Alignment 6
-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Nut Torque 6-72 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacement 6-53 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wrench 5-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windows 2-42 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield Washer 2-46 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid 6-32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fluid Level Check 7-17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield Wipers 2-45 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Blade Replacement 6-44 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses 6-65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Winter Driving 4-26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper Blade Check 7-18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper Blades, Cleaning 6-58 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiring, Headlamp 6-65 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wrench, Wheel 5-27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .