service PONTIAC VIBE 2010 Owner's Manual

RDS relies on receiving specific
information from radio stations and
only works when the information is
available. In rare cases, a radio
station could broadcast incorrect
information that causes the radio
features to work improperly. Contact
the radio station if this happens.
When the radio is tuned to an
RDS station, the station name
or call letters display instead of the
frequency. RDS stations can also
provide the time of day, a program
type (PTY) for current programming,
and the name of the program being
broadcast.
RDS Messages
ALERT:Displays when local
or national emergency
announcements are received.
If the radio tunes to a related network
station for the announcement,
it returns to the original station
when the announcement ends. The announcement should be heard
even if the volume is low or a CD is
playing. If a CD is playing, it will stop
playing during the announcement.
•The RDS alert feature is not
supported by all RDS radio
stations.
•The RDS alert feature cannot be
turned off.
•Alert is not affected by tests of the
emergency broadcast system.
MSG (Message): Displays if the
current RDS station has a message.
The message displays the artist,
song title, call in phone numbers,
etc. If the entire message does
not display, parts of the message
appear every three seconds until
the message is completed.
MSG disappears from the display
once the completed message
has displayed.
Finding a Station
BAND: Press to select AM, FM, or
XM (if equipped).
TUNE ADJ (Tune/Adjust): Turn to
select radio stations.
ySEEK TRACKz: Press to go
to the previous or next radio station.
The radio only stops at stations
with a strong signal.
SCAN: Press to enter scan mode.
The radio will display Scanning, then
goes to the next station, plays for a
few seconds, then continues on to
the next station. Press SCAN again
to stop scanning. The radio only
stops at stations with a strong signal.
INFO (Information) (FM-RDS,
XM™ Satellite Radio Service, and
MP3 Features): Press to display
information for the current FM-RDS,
XM station, or MP3 song. Choose
from Channel, Song, Artist, and
CAT (category).
NO INFO displays when information
is not available from the station.
Infotainment System 6-5

Satellite Radio
Vehicles with an XM™ Satellite
Radio tuner and a valid XM Satellite
Radio subscription can receive
XM programming.
XM Satellite Radio Service
XM is a satellite radio service that
is based in the 48 contiguous
United States and 10 Canadian
provinces. XM Satellite Radio
has a wide variety of programming
and commercial-free music,
coast-to-coast, and in digital-quality
sound. During your trial or when
you subscribe, you will get unlimited
access to XM Radio Online for when
you are not in your vehicle. A service
fee is required to receive the XM
service. For more information,
contact XM at www.xmradio.com
or call 1-800-929-2100 in the U.S.
and www.xmradio.ca or call
1-877-438-9677 in Canada.
Finding a Station
BAND:Press to select AM, FM,
or XM.
TUNE ADJ (Tune/Adjust): Turn to
select radio stations.
ySEEK TRACKz: Press to go
to the previous or next radio station.
The radio only stops at stations
with a strong signal.
SCAN: Press to enter scan mode.
The radio will display Scanning, then
goes to the next station, plays for a
few seconds, then continues on to
the next station. Press SCAN again
to stop scanning. The radio only
stops at stations with a strong signal.
INFO (Information) (FM-RDS,
XM™ Satellite Radio Service, and
MP3 Features): Press to display
information for the current FM-RDS,
XM station, or MP3 song. Choose
from Channel, Song, Artist, and
CAT (category).
NO INFO displays when information
is not available from the station.
Finding a Category (CAT)
Station
XM stations are organized in
categories.
To select and find a desired
category:
1. Press the CAT button.
2. Turn the TUNE ADJ knob to select a category.
3. Press
yorzto go to the
category’s first station, when the
desired category is displayed.
4. Press
yorzto go to another
station within the selected
category.
5. Press CAT to exit the category select mode or wait for CAT to
time out.
If CAT times out and is no longer on
the display, return to Step 1.
NOT FOUND displays if the desired
category cannot be found.
6-6 Infotainment System

Scanning Categories (CAT)
To scan a desired category:
1. Press the CAT button to enterthe category select mode.
2. Turn the TUNE ADJ knob to select a category.
3. Press
yorzfor two seconds
to scan the stations in the
selected category.
4. Press
yorzagain to stop
scanning.
NOT FOUND displays if the desired
category cannot be found.
XM Radio Messages
xL (Explicit Language Channels):
These channels, or any others,
can be blocked by calling
1-800-852-XMXM (9696).
Updating: The encryption code in
the receiver is being updated, and
no action is required. This process
should take no longer than
30 seconds. No Signal:
The system is
functioning correctly, but the
vehicle is in a location that is blocking
the XM signal. When the vehicle is
moved into an open area, the signal
should return.
Loading XM: The audio system is
acquiring and processing audio and
text data. No action is needed. This
message should disappear shortly.
CH Off Air: This channel is not
currently in service. Tune in
to another channel.
CH Unauth: This channel is
blocked or cannot be received with
your XM Subscription package.
CH Unavail: This previously
assigned channel is no longer
assigned. Tune to another station.
If this station was one of the presets,
choose another station for that
preset button.
No Info: No artist, song title,
category, or text information is
available at this time on this
channel. The system is working
properly. Not Found:
There are no channels
available for the selected category.
The system is working properly.
XM Locked: The XM receiver in
the vehicle may have previously
been in another vehicle. For security
purposes, XM receivers cannot be
swapped between vehicles. If this
message is received after having the
vehicle serviced, check with your
dealer/retailer.
Radio ID: If tuned to channel 0,
this message will alternate with the
XM Radio 8 digit radio ID label.
This label is needed to activate
the service. Consult with your
dealer/retailer.
Unknown: If this message is
received when tuned to channel 0,
there could be a receiver fault.
Consult with your dealer/retailer.
Chk XMRcvr: If this message does
not clear within a short period of
time, the receiver may have a fault.
Consult with your dealer/retailer.
Infotainment System 6-7

Radio Reception
Frequency interference and static
can occur during normal radio
reception if items such as cell phone
chargers, vehicle convenience
accessories, and external electronic
devices are plugged into the
accessory power outlet. If there is
interference or static, unplug the item
from the accessory power outlet.
FM
FM signals only reach about 10 to
40 miles (16 to 65 km). Although the
radio has a built-in electronic circuit
that automatically works to reduce
interference, some static can occur,
especially around tall buildings or
hills, causing the sound to fade in
and out.
AM
The range for most AM stations is
greater than for FM, especially at
night. The longer range can cause
station frequencies to interfere
with each other. For better radio
reception, most AM radio stations
boost the power levels during the
day, and then reduce these levels
during the night. Static can also
occur when things like storms and
power lines interfere with radio
reception. When this happens, try
reducing the treble on the radio.
XM™ Satellite Radio Service
XM Satellite Radio Service
gives digital radio reception from
coast-to-coast in the 48 contiguous
United States, and in Canada. Just
as with FM, tall buildings or hills can
interfere with satellite radio signals,
causing the sound to fade in and out.
In addition, traveling or standing
under heavy foliage, bridges,
garages, or tunnels may cause loss
of the XM signal for a period of time.
Cellular Phone Usage
Cellular phone usage may cause
interference with the vehicle’s radio.
This interference may occur when
making or receiving phone calls,
charging the phone’s battery,
or simply having the phone on.
This interference can cause an
increased level of static while
listening to the radio. If static is
received while listening to the radio,
unplug the cellular phone and turn
it off.
Fixed Mast Antenna
The fixed mast antenna can
withstand most car washes without
being damaged as long as it is
securely attached to the base.
If the mast becomes slightly bent,
straighten it out by hand. If the mast
is badly bent, replace it.
Occasionally check to make sure
the antenna is tightened to its base.
If tightening is required, tighten
by hand.
6-8 Infotainment System

Satellite Radio Antenna
For vehicles with XM™ Satellite
Radio Service, the antenna is
located on the roof of the vehicle.
Keep the antenna clear of
obstructions for clear radio
reception.
If the vehicle has a sunroof, the
performance of the XM system may
be affected if the sunroof is open.
Audio Players
CD Player
Playing a CD
The CD player can play the smaller
8 cm (3 inch) single CDs with an
adapter ring.
1. Insert a CD label side uppartway into the slot.
2. The CD player pulls the CD in and begins playing.
3. The CD symbol and track number displays.
The CD stays in the player if the
ignition or radio is turned off.
If the CD was the last source
selected, it resumes playing when
the radio is turned on.
Y(EJECT): Press and release to
eject a CD. Once ejected it can be
removed. If the CD is not removed
after several seconds the CD player
automatically pulls the disc back into
the player and starts playing.
TUNE ADJ: Turn the TUNE ADJ
knob to select tracks on the CD.
ySEEK TRACKz: Pressyto
go to the start of the current track, if
more than ten seconds have played.
Press
zto go to the next track.
Holding or pressing
yorzmultiple
times causes the player to continue
moving backward or forward through
the tracks on the CD.
Infotainment System 6-9

If you turn the steering wheel in
either direction several times until it
stops, or hold the steering wheel in
the stopped position for an extended
amount of time, you may notice a
reduced amount of power steering
assist. The normal amount of power
steering assist should return shortly
after a few normal steering
movements.
The electric power steering
system does not require regular
maintenance. If you suspect
steering system problems, such as
abnormally high steering effort for a
prolonged period of time, contact
your dealer/retailer for service
repairs.Steering Tips
It is important to take curves at a
reasonable speed.
Traction in a curve depends on the
condition of the tires and the road
surface, the angle at which the curve
is banked, and vehicle speed. While
in a curve, speed is the one factor
that can be controlled.
If there is a need to reduce speed,
do it before entering the curve,
while the front wheels are straight.
Try to adjust the speed so you can
drive through the curve. Maintain a
reasonable, steady speed. Wait to
accelerate until out of the curve, and
then accelerate gently into the
straightaway.
Steering in Emergencies
There are times when steering
can be more effective than braking.
For example, you come over a hill
and find a truck stopped in your lane,
or a car suddenly pulls out from
nowhere, or a child darts out from
between parked cars and stops right
in front of you. These problems can
be avoided by braking — if you can
stop in time. But sometimes you
cannot stop in time because there
is no room. That is the time for
evasive action — steering around
the problem.
The vehicle can perform very well
in emergencies like these. First
apply the brakes. SeeBraking on
page 8-4. It is better to remove as
much speed as possible from a
collision. Then steer around the
problem, to the left or right
depending on the space available.
Driving and Operating 8-5

Hydroplaning
Hydroplaning is dangerous. Water
can build up under your vehicle’s
tires so they actually ride on the
water. This can happen if the road is
wet enough and you are going fast
enough. When your vehicle is
hydroplaning, it has little or no
contact with the road.
There is no hard and fast rule about
hydroplaning. The best advice is
to slow down when the road is wet.
Other Rainy Weather Tips
Besides slowing down, other wet
weather driving tips include:
•Allow extra following distance.
•Pass with caution.
•Keep windshield wiping
equipment in good shape.
•Keep the windshield washer fluid
reservoir filled.
•Have good tires with proper tread
depth. SeeTires on page 9-43 .
•Turn off cruise control.
Highway Hypnosis
Always be alert and pay attention
to your surroundings while driving.
If you become tired or sleepy, find
a safe place to park your vehicle
and rest.
Other driving tips include:
•Keep the vehicle well ventilated.
•Keep interior temperature cool.
•Keep your eyes moving — scan
the road ahead and to the sides.
•Check the rearview mirror and
vehicle instruments often.
Hill and Mountain Roads
Driving on steep hills or through
mountains is different than driving
on flat or rolling terrain. Tips for
driving in these conditions include:
•Keep the vehicle serviced
and in good shape.
•Check all fluid levels and brakes,
tires, cooling system, and
transmission.
•Going down steep or long hills,
shift to a lower gear.
{CAUTION
If you do not shift down, the
brakes could get so hot that they
would not work well. You would
then have poor braking or even
none going down a hill. You could
crash. Shift down to let the engine
assist the brakes on a steep
downhill slope.
8-8 Driving and Operating

LOCK/OFF:This is the only position
from which you can remove the key.
This locks the steering wheel,
ignition and automatic transmission.
Push in the ignition switch as you
turn the key toward you.
On vehicles with an automatic
transmission, the shift lever must be
in P (Park) to turn the ignition switch
to the LOCK/OFF position.
A warning tone will sound if the driver
door is opened with the key in the
ignition.
The ignition switch can bind in the
LOCK/OFF position with your wheels
turned off center. If this happens,
move the steering wheel from right
to left while turning the key to
ACC/ACCESSORY. If this doesn’t
work, then the vehicle needs service.{CAUTION
On manual transmission vehicles,
turning the key to LOCK/OFF and
removing it will lock the steering
column and result in a loss of
ability to steer the vehicle.
This could cause a collision.
If you need to turn the engine
off while the vehicle is moving,
turn the key only to ACC/
ACCESSORY. Do not push the
key in while the vehicle is moving.
ACC/ACCESSORY: This position
provides power to some of the
electrical accessories. It unlocks the
steering wheel and ignition. To move
the key from ACC/ACCESSORY to
LOCK/OFF, push in the key and then
turn it to LOCK/OFF.
A warning tone will sound when the
driver door is opened when the
ignition is still in ACC/ACCESSORY
or LOCK/OFF and the key is in the
ignition. ON/RUN:
The ignition switch stays
in this position when the engine is
running. This position can be used
to operate the electrical accessories,
including the ventilation fan and
115 volt power outlet, as well as to
display some warning and indicator
lights. The transmission is also
unlocked in this position on
automatic transmission vehicles.
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 the 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 ON/RUN for normal
driving.
Driving and Operating 8-17

Shifting Out of Park
This vehicle has an electronic shift
lock release system. The shift lock
release is designed to:
•Prevent ignition key removal
unless the shift lever is in
P (Park).
•Prevent movement of the shift
lever out of P (Park), unless the
ignition is in ON/RUN and the
brake pedal is applied.
The shift lock release is always
functional except in the case of an
uncharged or low voltage (less
than 9 volt) battery.
If the vehicle has an uncharged
battery or a battery with low voltage,
try charging or jump starting the
battery. See Shifting Out of Park on
page 8-22 for more information. To shift out of P (Park) use the
following:
1. Apply the brake pedal.
2. Move the shift lever to the
desired position.
If you still are unable to shift out of
P (Park):
1. Fully release the shift lever.
2. Hold the brake pedal down.
3. Move the shift lever to the desired position.
If you still cannot move the shift
lever from P (Park), consult
your dealer/retailer or a professional
towing service.
Parking
Before you get out of the vehicle,
move the shift lever into R (Reverse),
and firmly apply the parking brake.
Once the shift lever has been placed
into R (Reverse) with the clutch
pedal pressed in, you can turn the
ignition key to LOCK/OFF, remove
the key and release the clutch.
If you are parking on a hill, or if
the vehicle is pulling a trailer, see
Driving Characteristics and Towing
Tips on page 8-44.
8-22 Driving and Operating

N (Neutral):In this position, the
engine does not connect with the
wheels. To restart the vehicle when it
is already moving, use N (Neutral)
only. Also, use N (Neutral) when the
vehicle is being towed.
{CAUTION
Shifting into a drive gear while the
engine is running at high speed is
dangerous. Unless your foot is
firmly on the brake pedal, the
vehicle could move very rapidly.
You could lose control and hit
people or objects. Do not shift into
a drive gear while the engine is
running at high speed. Notice:
Shifting out of P (Park)
or N (Neutral) with the engine
running at high speed may
damage the transmission. The
repairs would not be covered by
the vehicle warranty. Be sure the
engine is not running at high
speed when shifting the vehicle.
D (Drive): This position is for
normal driving. It provides the best
fuel economy. If you need more
power for passing, and you are:
•Going less than 35 mph
(56 km/h), push the accelerator
pedal about halfway down.
•Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or
more, push the accelerator all
the way down.
Notice: If the vehicle seems to
start up rather slowly or not shift
gears when you go faster, and
you continue to drive the vehicle that way, you could damage the
transmission. Have the vehicle
serviced right away. You can drive
in L2 (Low) when you are driving
less than 35 mph (56 km/h) and
D (Drive) for higher speeds
until then.
2 (Second):
This position reduces
vehicle speed more than D (Drive)
without using the brakes. You can
use 2 (Second) on hills. It can help
control vehicle speed as you go
down steep mountain roads, but then
you would also want to use the
brakes off and on.
L (Low): This position reduces
vehicle speed even more than
2 (Second) without using the brakes.
You can use it on very steep hills, or
in deep snow or mud. If the shift lever
is put in L (Low), the transmission will
not shift into low gear until the vehicle
is going slow enough.
8-26 Driving and Operating