tow PONTIAC G6 2010 Workshop Manual

Do not clean the vehicle using:
•A knife or any other sharp object to remove a soil
from any interior surface.
•A stiff brush. It can cause damage to the vehicle’s
interior surfaces.
•Heavy pressure or aggressive rubbing with a
cleaning cloth. Use of heavy pressure can damage
the interior and does not improve the effectiveness
of soil removal.
•Laundry detergents or dishwashing soaps with
degreasers can leave residue that streaks and
attracts dirt. For liquid cleaners, about 20 drops
per gallon (3.78 L) of water is a good guide.
Use only mild, neutral-pH soaps.
•Too much cleaner that saturates the upholstery.
•Organic solvents such as naptha, alcohol, etc. that
can damage the vehicle’s interior.
Fabric/Carpet
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
frequently to remove dust and loose dirt. A canister
vacuum with a beater bar in the nozzle may only be used
on floor carpet and carpeted floor mats. For any soil,
always try to remove it first with plain water or club soda.
Before cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as
possible using one of the following techniques:
•For liquids: gently blot the remaining soil with a paper
towel. Allow the soil to absorb into the paper towel
until no more can be removed.
•For solid dry soils: remove as much as possible and
then vacuum.
To clean:
1. Saturate a lint-free, clean white cloth with water or
club soda.
2. Wring the cloth to remove excess moisture.
3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub
toward the center. Continue cleaning, using a clean
area of the cloth each time it becomes soiled.
4. Continue to gently rub the soiled area until the
cleaning cloth remains clean.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild
soap solution and repeat the cleaning process
that was used with plain water.
6-108

If any of the soil remains, a commercial fabric cleaner
or spot lifter may be necessary. When a commercial
upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be used, test
a small hidden area for colorfastness first. If the
locally cleaned area gives any impression that a
ring formation may result, clean the entire surface.
After the cleaning process has been completed, a paper
towel can be used to blot excess moisture from the
fabric or carpet.
Leather
A soft cloth dampened with water can be used to remove
dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary, a soft
cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be used.
Allow the leather to dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry.
Never use steam to clean leather. Never use spot lifters
or spot removers on leather. Many commercial leather
cleaners and coatings that are sold to preserve and
protect leather may permanently change the appearance
and feel of the leather and are not recommended. Do not
use silicone or wax-based products, or those containing
organic solvents to clean the vehicle’s interior because
they can alter the appearance by increasing the gloss in a
non-uniform manner. Never use shoe polish on leather.
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other
Plastic Surfaces
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to remove
dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary, a clean
soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be
used to gently remove dust and dirt. Never use spot lifters
or removers on plastic surfaces. Many commercial
cleaners and coatings that are sold to preserve and
protect soft plastic surfaces may permanently change
the appearance and feel of the interior and are not
recommended. Do not use silicone or wax-based
products, or those containing organic solvents to
clean the vehicle’s interior because they can alter the
appearance by increasing the gloss in a non-uniform
manner.
Some commercial products may increase gloss on the
instrument panel. The increase in gloss may cause
annoying reflections in the windshield and even make
it difficult to see through the windshield under certain
conditions.
6-109

Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton
towel to avoid surface scratches and water spotting.
High pressure car washes may cause water to enter
the vehicle. Avoid using high pressure washes closer
than 12 inches (30 cm) to the surface of the vehicle.
Use of power washers exceeding 1,200 psi (8 274 kPa)
can result in damage or removal of paint and decals.
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a
car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses.
Follow instructions underWashing Your Vehicle on
page 6-110.
Finish Care
Occasional waxing or mild polishing of the vehicle
by hand may be necessary to remove residue from
the paint finish. Approved cleaning products can
be obtained from your dealer/retailer.
If the vehicle has a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish,
the clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored
basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are
non-abrasive and made for a basecoat/clearcoat
paint finish.Notice:Machine compounding or aggressive
polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint nish
may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and
polishes that are made for a basecoat/clearcoat
paint nish on the vehicle.
Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other
salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap,
bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys,
etc., can damage the vehicle’s finish if they remain on
painted surfaces. Wash the vehicle as soon as possible.
If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked
safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter.
Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather
and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a
period of years. To help keep the paint finish looking
new, keep the vehicle garaged or covered whenever
possible.Protecting Exterior Bright Metal Parts
Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep
their luster. Washing with water is all that is usually
needed. However, chrome polish may be used on
chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary.
Use special care with aluminum trim. To avoid damaging
protective trim, never use auto or chrome polish, steam or
caustic soap to clean aluminum. A coating of wax, rubbed
to high polish, is recommended for all bright metal parts.
6-111

Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner.
Clean the rubber blades using a lint free cloth or paper
towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild
detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when
cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a
buildup of vehicle wash/wax treatments may cause
wiper streaking. Replace the wiper blades if they are
worn or damaged.
Wipers can be damaged by:
•Extreme dusty conditions
•Sand and salt
•Heat and sun
•Snow and ice, without proper removal
Aluminum Wheels
Notice:Using strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive
polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners that contain
acid on aluminum or chrome-plated wheels, could
damage the surface of the wheel(s). The repairs
would not be covered by the vehicle warranty.
Use only approved cleaners on aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels.Keep the wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild
soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing
thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then
be applied.
Notice:Using chrome polish on aluminum wheels
could damage the wheels. The repairs would not
be covered by the vehicle warranty. Use chrome
polish on chrome wheels only.
The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted
surface of the vehicle. Do not use strong soaps,
chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners,
cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning brushes
on them because the surface could be damaged.
Do not use chrome polish on aluminum wheels.
Notice:Driving the vehicle through an automatic
car wash that has silicone carbide tire cleaning
brushes, could damage the aluminum or
chrome-plated wheels. The repairs would not be
covered by the vehicle warranty. Never drive
a vehicle that has aluminum or chrome-plated
wheels through an automatic car wash that uses
silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes.
6-112

First Engine Oil Change After Every
40 000 km/25,000 Miles
•
Fuel system inspection for damage or leaks.
First Engine Oil Change After Every
80 000 km/50,000 Miles
•
Engine air cleaner filter replacement.
SeeEngine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 6-26.
•Automatic transmission fluid change (severe
service) for vehicles mainly driven in heavy
city traffic in hot weather, in hilly or mountainous
terrain, when frequently towing a trailer, or used for
taxi, police, or delivery service. SeeAutomatic
Transmission Fluid (2.4L L4, 3.5L V6 and
3.6L V6 Engines) on page 6-27orAutomatic
Transmission Fluid (3.9L V6 Engine) on page 6-28.
First Engine Oil Change After Every
160 000 km/100,000 Miles
•
Automatic transmission fluid change (normal
service). SeeAutomatic Transmission Fluid
(2.4L L4, 3.5L V6 and 3.6L V6 Engines) on
page 6-27orAutomatic Transmission Fluid
(3.9L V6 Engine) on page 6-28.
•Spark plug replacement.An Emission Control
Service.
First Engine Oil Change After Every
240 000 km/150,000 Miles
•
Engine cooling system drain, flush, and refill,
cooling system and cap pressure check, and
cleaning of outside of radiator and air conditioning
condenser (or every 5 years, whichever occurs first).
SeeEngine Coolant on page 6-31.An Emission
Control Service.
•Engine accessory drive belt inspection for fraying,
excessive cracks, or obvious damage and
replacement, if needed.An Emission Control
Service.
7-6

Coverage
Services are provided up to 5 years/100,000 miles
(160 000 km), whichever comes first.
In the U.S., anyone driving the vehicle is covered. In
Canada, a person driving the vehicle without permission
from the owner is not covered.
Roadside Assistance is not a part of the New Vehicle
Limited Warranty. Pontiac and General Motors of
Canada Limited reserve the right to make any changes
or discontinue the Roadside Assistance program at
any time without notification.
Pontiac and General Motors of Canada Limited reserve
the right to limit services or payment to an owner or
driver if they decide the claims are made too often, or
the same type of claim is made many times.
Services Provided
•Emergency Fuel Delivery:Delivery of enough fuel
for the vehicle to get to the nearest service station.
•Lock-Out Service:Service is provided to unlock the
vehicle if you are locked out. A remote unlock may
be available if you have OnStar
®. For security
reasons, the driver must present identification
before this service is given.
•Emergency Tow From a Public Road or
Highway:Tow to the nearest Pontiac dealer for
warranty service, or if the vehicle was in a crash and
cannot be driven. Assistance is also given when the
vehicle is stuck in sand, mud, or snow.
•Flat Tire Change:Service is provided to change a
flat tire with the spare tire. The spare tire, if equipped,
must be in good condition and properly inflated. It is
the owner’s responsibility for the repair or
replacement of the tire if it is not covered by the
warranty.
•Battery Jump Start:Service is provided to jump
start a dead battery.
•Trip Interruption Benets and Assistance:If your
trip is interrupted due to a warranty failure, incidental
expenses may be reimbursed during the 5 years/
100,000 miles (160 000 km) Powertrain warranty
period. Items considered are hotel, meals, and
rental car.
8-8

Services Not Included in Roadside
Assistance
•Impound towing caused by violation of any laws.
•Legal fines.
•Mounting, dismounting or changing of snow tires,
chains, or other traction devices.
•Towing or services for vehicles driven on a
non-public road or highway.
Services Specic to Canadian
Purchased Vehicles
•Fuel delivery:Reimbursement is approximately
$5 Canadian. Diesel fuel delivery may be restricted.
Propane and other fuels are not provided through
this service.
•Lock-Out Service:Vehicle registration is required.
•Trip Routing Service:Detailed maps of North
America are provided when requested either with the
most direct route or the most scenic route. There is a
limit of six requests per year. Additional travel
information is also available. Allow three weeks for
delivery.
•Trip Interruption Benets and Assistance:Must
be over 250 kilometres from where your trip was
started to qualify. General Motors of Canada Limited
requires pre-authorization, original detailed receipts,
and a copy of the repair orders. Once authorization
has been received, the Roadside Assistance advisor
will help you make arrangements and explain how to
receive payment.
•Alternative Service:If assistance cannot be
provided right away, the Roadside Assistance
advisor may give you permission to get local
emergency road service. You will receive payment,
up to $100, after sending the original receipt to
Roadside Assistance. Mechanical failures may be
covered, however any cost for parts and labor for
repairs not covered by the warranty are the owner
responsibility.
8-9

If a Crash Occurs
Here is what to do if you are involved in a crash.
•Check to make sure that you are all right. If you are
uninjured, make sure that no one else in your
vehicle, or the other vehicle, is injured.
•If there has been an injury, call emergency services
for help. Do not leave the scene of a crash until all
matters have been taken care of. Move your vehicle
only if its position puts you in danger or you are
instructed to move it by a police officer.
•Give only the necessary and requested information
to police and other parties involved in the crash.
Do not discuss your personal condition, mental frame
of mind, or anything unrelated to the crash. This will
help guard against post-crash legal action.
•If you need roadside assistance, call GM Roadside
Assistance. SeeRoadside Assistance Program on
page 8-7for more information.
•If your vehicle cannot be driven, know where the
towing service will be taking it. Get a card from the
tow truck operator or write down the driver’s name,
the service’s name, and the phone number.
•Remove any valuables from your vehicle before it is
towed away. Make sure this includes your insurance
information and registration if you keep these items
in your vehicle.
•Gather the important information you will need from
the other driver. Things like name, address, phone
number, driver’s license number, vehicle license
plate, vehicle make, model and model year, Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN), insurance company and
policy number, and a general description of the
damage to the other vehicle.
•If possible, call your insurance company from the
scene of the crash. They will walk you through the
information they will need. If they ask for a police
report, phone or go to the police department
headquarters the next day and you can get a copy of
the report for a nominal fee. In some states/provinces
with “no fault” insurance laws, a report may not be
necessary. This is especially true if there are no
injuries and both vehicles are driveable.
•Choose a reputable collision repair facility for your
vehicle. Whether you select a dealer/retailer or a
private collision repair facility to fix the damage,
make sure you are comfortable with them.
Remember, you will have to feel comfortable with
their work for a long time.
•Once you have an estimate, read it carefully and
make sure you understand what work will be
performed on your vehicle. If you have a question,
ask for an explanation. Reputable shops welcome
this opportunity.
8-13

Managing the Vehicle Damage Repair
Process
In the event that your vehicle requires damage repairs,
GM recommends that you take an active role in its repair.
If you have a pre-determined repair facility of choice, take
your vehicle there, or have it towed there. Specify to the
facility that any required replacement collision parts be
original equipment parts, either new Genuine GM parts or
recycled original GM parts. Remember, recycled parts
will not be covered by your GM vehicle warranty.
Insurance pays the bill for the repair, but you must live
with the repair. Depending on your policy limits, your
insurance company may initially value the repair using
aftermarket parts. Discuss this with your repair
professional, and insist on Genuine GM parts. Remember
if your vehicle is leased you may be obligated to have the
vehicle repaired with Genuine GM parts, even if your
insurance coverage does not pay the full cost.
If another party’s insurance company is paying for the
repairs, you are not obligated to accept a repair
valuation based on that insurance company’s collision
policy repair limits, as you have no contractual limits with
that company. In such cases, you can have control of
the repair and parts choices as long as cost stays within
reasonable limits.
Reporting Safety Defects
Reporting Safety Defects to the
United States Government
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which
could cause a crash or could cause injury or death,
you should immediately inform the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in
addition to notifying General Motors.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open
an investigation, and if it finds that a safety defect
exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall
and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot
become involved in individual problems between
you, your dealer, or General Motors.
To contact NHTSA, you may call the Vehicle
Safety Hotline toll-free at 1-888-327-4236
(TTY: 1-800-424-9153); go to
http://www.safercar.gov; or write to:
Administrator, NHTSA
1200 New Jersey Avenue, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590
You can also obtain other information about motor
vehicle safety fromhttp://www.safercar.gov.
8-14

C
Calibration.....................................................3-35
California
Perchlorate Materials Requirements................. 6-5
Warning....................................................... 6-5
California Fuel.................................................. 6-7
Call Waiting...................................................4-78
Calling for Assistance........................................ 8-7
Canada — Customer Assistance......................... 8-6
Canadian Owners............................................... iii
Canadian Owners (Propriétaires Canadiens)........... iii
Canceling a Remote Start.................................. 1-5
Capacities and Specifications..........................6-125
Carbon Monoxide
Engine Exhaust...........................................3-32
Trunk.........................................................3-11
Winter Driving.............................................5-15
Care of
Safety Belts..............................................6-110
Care of CDs ..................................................4-61
Care of the CD Player.....................................4-62
CD Messages................................................4-61
CD, MP3 .......................................................4-63
Cellular Phone Usage......................................4-83
Center Console Storage...................................3-37
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp (CHMSL)....6-49, 6-50
Certification Label...........................................5-22
Chains, Tire...................................................6-81Changing a Tire When Trailer Towing................5-33
Charging System Light....................................4-30
Check
Engine Lamp..............................................4-34
Check Engine Light.........................................4-34
Checking Coolant............................................6-32
Checking Engine Oil........................................6-21
Checking Things Under the Hood......................6-14
Chemical Paint Spotting.................................6-114
Child Restraints
Infants and Young Children...........................2-39
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children..........2-46
Older Children.............................................2-36
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear
Seat Position...........................................2-54
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right
Front Seat Position...................................2-56
Systems.....................................................2-42
Where to Put the Restraint...........................2-44
Cleaning
Aluminum Wheels......................................6-112
Exterior Lamps/Lenses................................6-111
Fabric/Carpet............................................6-108
Finish Care...............................................6-111
Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other
Plastic Surfaces.....................................6-109
Interior.....................................................6-107
Leather....................................................6-109
Tires........................................................6-113
3