2008 Pontiac G8 Owners Manual

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Gasoline Octane If your vehicle has a V8 engine, use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 87 or higher. If the octane rating is less than 87, you might notice an audible knocking noise when you drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. If this occurs, use a gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher as soon as possible. If you are using gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher and you hear heavy knocking, the engine needs service. If your vehicle has the 3.6L V6 engine (VIN Code 7), use regular unleaded gasoline with a posted octane rating of 87 or higher. For best performance or trailer towing, you could choose to use middle grade 89 octane unleaded gasoline. If the octane rating is less than 87, you might notice an audible knocking noise when you drive, commonly referred to as spark knock. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 8-34 Driving and Operating Additives To provide cleaner air, all gasolines in the United States are now required to contain additives that help prevent engine and fuel system deposits from forming, allowing the emission control system to work properly. In most cases, you should not have to add anything to the fuel. However, some gasolines contain only the minimum amount of additive required to meet U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations. To help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean, or if your vehicle experiences problems due to dirty injectors or valves, look for gasoline that is advertised as TOP TIER Detergent Gasoline. Also, your dealer/retailer has additives that will help correct and prevent most deposit-related problems. Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines might be available in your area. We recommend that you use these gasolines, if they comply with the speciﬁcations described earlier. However, E85 (85% ethanol) and other fuels containing more than 10% ethanol must not be used in vehicles that were not designed for those fuels. Notice: Your vehicle was not designed for fuel that contains methanol. Do not use fuel containing methanol. It can corrode metal parts in the fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts. That damage would not be covered under your warranty. Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions can contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask the attendant where you buy gasoline whether the fuel contains MMT. We recommend against the use of such gasolines. Fuels containing MMT can reduce the life of spark plugs and the performance of the emission control system could be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp might turn on. If this occurs, return to your dealer/retailer for service. Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel might be hard to ﬁnd. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel would not be covered by your warranty. To check the fuel availability, ask an auto club, or contact a major oil company that does business in the country where you will be driving. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Driving and Operating 8-35 { CAUTION Fuel can spray out on you if you open the fuel cap too quickly. If you spill fuel and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likely in hot weather. Open the fuel cap slowly and wait for any hiss noise to stop. Then unscrew the cap all the way. Be careful not to spill fuel. Do not top off or overﬁll the tank and wait a few seconds after you have ﬁnished pumping before removing the nozzle. Clean fuel from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See Exterior Cleaning on page 9-94. When replacing the fuel cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks. Make sure the cap is fully installed. The fuel cap is located behind a hinged fuel door on the driver side of the vehicle. To open the fuel door the vehicle must be unlocked. Push on the rear edge of the door to open. When reinstalling the cap, turn it clockwise until it clicks, otherwise the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may turn on. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 4-18. Filling the Tank { CAUTION Fuel vapor burns violently and a fuel ﬁre can cause bad injuries. To help avoid injuries to you and others, read and follow all the instructions on the pump island. Turn off your engine when you are refueling. Do not smoke if you are near fuel or refueling your vehicle. Do not use cellular phones. Keep sparks, ﬂames, and smoking materials away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel pump unattended when refueling your vehicle. This is against the law in some places. Do not re-enter the vehicle while pumping fuel. Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump fuel. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 8-36 Driving and Operating The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 4-18. { CAUTION If a ﬁre starts while you are refueling, do not remove the nozzle. Shut off the ﬂow of fuel by shutting off the pump or by notifying the station attendant. Leave the area immediately. If you need a new fuel Notice: cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer/retailer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not ﬁt properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and may damage your fuel tank and emissions system. See Malfunction Indicator Lamp on page 4-18. Filling a Portable Fuel Container CAUTION (Continued) (cid:129) Bring the ﬁll nozzle in contact with the inside of the ﬁll opening before operating the nozzle. Contact should be maintained until the ﬁlling is complete. (cid:129) Do not smoke while pumping fuel. (cid:129) Do not use a cellular phone while pumping fuel. { CAUTION Never ﬁll a portable fuel container while it is in your vehicle. Static electricity discharge from the container can ignite the fuel vapor. You can be badly burned and your vehicle damaged if this occurs. To help avoid injury to you and others: (cid:129) Dispense fuel only into approved containers. (cid:129) Do not ﬁll a container while it is inside a vehicle, in a vehicle’s trunk, pickup bed, or on any surface other than the ground. (Continued) 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-1 Vehicle Service and Care Service Service ...............................9-2 Accessories and Modiﬁcations .....................9-3 California Proposition 65 Warning ............................9-3 California Perchlorate Materials Requirements .....9-3 Doing Your Own Service Work ....................9-4 Adding Equipment to the Outside of the Vehicle ......9-4 Owner Checks Owner Checks ....................9-5 Hood Release .....................9-5 Engine Compartment Overview ...........................9-6 Engine Oil ..........................9-8 Engine Oil Life System .....9-10 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ...9-11 Automatic Transmission Fluid ................................9-13 Engine Coolant .................9-13 Radiator Pressure Cap ......9-15 Engine Overheating ...........9-16 Cooling System .................9-17 Power Steering Fluid .........9-21 Windshield Washer Fluid ...9-22 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement ...................9-23 Brakes ..............................9-24 Battery ..............................9-26 Headlamp Aiming Headlamp Aiming ..............9-27 Bulb Replacement Bulb Replacement .............9-29 Halogen Bulbs ..................9-29 Headlamps and Parking Lamps .............................9-29 Taillamps ..........................9-31 Replacement Bulbs ...........9-32 Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment .......................9-32 Headlamp Wiring ..............9-33 Windshield Wiper Fuses ....9-33 Power Windows and Other Power Options .......9-33 Instrument Panel Fuse Block ...............................9-33 Engine Compartment Fuse Block ......................9-35 Rear Compartment Fuse Block ...............................9-38 Tires Tires .................................9-39 Tire Sidewall Labeling .......9-40 Tire Terminology and Deﬁnitions .......................9-43 Inﬂation - Tire Pressure ....9-46 High-Speed Operation .......9-48 Tire Pressure Monitor System ............................9-49 Tire Pressure Monitor Operation ........................9-51 Tire Inspection and Rotation ..........................9-54 When It Is Time for New Tires .......................9-56 Buying New Tires .............9-56 Different Size Tires and Wheels ............................9-58 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Service For service and parts needs, visit your dealer/retailer. You will receive genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: 9-2 Vehicle Service and Care Towing Towing Your Vehicle .........9-84 Shift Lock Manual Release ...........................9-84 Recreational Vehicle Towing ............................9-85 Towing a Trailer ................9-85 Appearance Care Interior Cleaning ................9-91 Exterior Cleaning ..............9-94 Sheet Metal Damage ........9-98 Finish Damage ..................9-98 Underbody Maintenance ....9-98 Chemical Paint Spotting ....9-98 Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials .........................9-99 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ...........................9-59 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ...........................9-60 Wheel Replacement ..........9-61 Tire Chains .......................9-62 Tire Changing If a Tire Goes Flat ............9-62 Tire Sealant and Compressor Kit (V8 Engine) .....................9-64 Changing a Flat Tire (V6 Engine) .....................9-71 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools ........................9-72 Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire .......................9-73 Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools .................9-78 Compact Spare Tire ..........9-79 Jump Starting Jump Starting ...................9-80 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-3 Accessories and Modiﬁcations When non-dealer/non-retailer accessories are added to your vehicle they can affect your vehicle’s performance and safety, including such things as, airbags, braking, stability, ride and handling, emissions systems, aerodynamics, durability, and electronic systems like antilock brakes, traction control and stability control. Some of these accessories could even cause malfunction or damage not covered by warranty. GM Accessories are designed to complement and function with other systems on your vehicle. Your GM dealer/retailer can accessorize your vehicle using genuine GM Accessories. When you go to your GM dealer/retailer and ask for GM Accessories, you will know that GM-trained and supported service technicians will perform the work using genuine GM Accessories. Also, see Adding Equipment to Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-30. California Proposition 65 Warning Most motor vehicles, including this one, contain and/or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Engine exhaust, many parts and systems (including some inside the vehicle), many ﬂuids, and some component wear by-products contain and/or emit these chemicals. California Perchlorate Materials Requirements Certain types of automotive applications, such as airbag initiators, seat belt pretensioners, and lithium batteries contained in remote keyless entry transmitters, may contain perchlorate materials. Special handling may be necessary. For additional information, see www.dtsc.ca.gov/hazardouswaste/ perchlorate. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-4 Vehicle Service and Care Doing Your Own Service Work { CAUTION You can be injured and your vehicle could be damaged if you try to do service work on a vehicle without knowing enough about it. (cid:129) Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts, and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. (cid:129) Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts, and other fasteners. English and metric fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off. You could be hurt. If you want to do some of your own service work, you should use the proper service manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see Service Publications Ordering Information on page 12-15. Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to do your own service work, see Airbag System Check on page 1-31. You should keep a record with all parts receipts and list the mileage and the date of any service work you perform. See Maintenance Record on page 11-15. Adding Equipment to the Outside of the Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airﬂow around it. This can cause wind noise and can affect fuel economy and windshield washer performance. Check with your dealer/retailer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Owner Checks { CAUTION Hood Release To open the hood: Vehicle Service and Care 9-5 An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan. { CAUTION Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a ﬁre. These include liquids like fuel, oil, coolant, brake ﬂuid, windshield washer and other ﬂuids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. Be careful not to drop or spill things that will burn onto a hot engine. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 1. Pull the release handle with the above symbol on it. It is located below the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel. 2. Pull up on the secondary hood release. The lever is located near the middle of the hood. 3. Lift the hood. 4. Release the hood prop rod from its retainer and put it into the slot in the hood. To insert the hood prop rod into the slot. Before closing the hood, be sure all the ﬁller caps are on properly. Make sure to return the hood prop rod carefully back to its retainer to avoid damaging the vehicle. 9-6 Vehicle Service and Care Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood, this is what you will see: V6 Engine A. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine Compartment Fuse Block on page 9-35. B. Coolant Reservoir and Dipstick. See Cooling System on page 9-17. C. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 9-8. D. Engine Oil Dipstick (Out of View). See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 9-8. E. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid” under Brakes on page 9-24. F. Power Steering Reservoir. See Power Steering Fluid on page 9-21. G. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 9-11. H. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Windshield Washer Fluid on page 9-22. I. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Cooling System on page 9-17. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-7 A. Engine Compartment Fuse Block. See Engine Compartment Fuse Block on page 9-35. B. Coolant Reservoir and Dipstick. See Cooling System on page 9-17. C. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 9-8. D. Engine Oil Fill Cap. See “When to Add Oil” under Engine Oil on page 9-8. E. Power Steering Reservoir. See Power Steering Fluid on page 9-21. F. Brake Master Cylinder Reservoir. See “Brake Fluid” under Brakes on page 9-24. G. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 9-11. H. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir. See Windshield Washer Fluid on page 9-22. I. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Cooling System on page 9-17. V8 Engine 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-8 Vehicle Service and Care When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is below the MIN (minimum) mark, add at least one quart/liter of the recommended oil. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For engine oil crankcase capacity, see Capacities and Speciﬁcations on page 10-2. Notice: Do not add too much oil. If the engine has so much oil that the oil level gets above the upper mark that shows the proper operating range, the engine could be damaged. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6 for the location of the engine oil ﬁll cap. Be sure to add enough oil to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you are through. Engine Oil Checking Engine Oil It is a good idea to check the engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground. The engine oil dipstick handle is a yellow loop. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6 for the location of the engine oil dipstick. 1. Turn off the engine and give the oil several minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you do not do this, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level. 2. Pull the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, keeping the tip down and check the level. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Vehicle Service and Care 9-9 Look for three things: (cid:129) GM6094M Your vehicle’s engine requires oil meeting GM Standard GM6094M. Look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM6094M. (cid:129) SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils such as SAE 20W-50. (cid:129) Oils meeting these requirements should have the starburst symbol on the container. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certiﬁed by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Look for this information on the oil container, and use only those oils that are identiﬁed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and have the starburst symbol on the front of the oil container. Notice: Use only engine oil identiﬁed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and showing the American Petroleum Institute Certiﬁed For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-10 Vehicle Service and Care If you are in an area of extreme cold, where the temperature falls below −20°F (−29°C), it is recommended that you use either an SAE 5W-30 synthetic oil or an SAE 0W-30 oil. Both provide easier cold starting and better protection for the engine at extremely low temperatures. Engine Oil Additives Do not add anything to the oil. The recommended oils with the starburst symbol that meet GM Standard GM6094M are all you need for good performance and engine protection. Engine Oil Life System When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and ﬁlter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage. Based on driving conditions, the mileage at which an oil change will be indicated can vary considerably. For the oil life system to work properly, you must reset the system every time the oil is changed. When the system has calculated that oil life has been diminished, it will indicate that an oil change is necessary. The Service Engine Oil message will be displayed. Change the oil as soon as possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is possible that, if you are driving under the best conditions, the oil life system might not indicate that an oil change is necessary for over a year. However, the engine oil and ﬁlter must be changed at least once a year and at this time the system must be reset. Your dealer/retailer has trained service people who will perform this work using genuine parts and reset the system. It is also important to check the oil regularly and keep it at the proper level. If the system is ever reset accidentally, you must change the oil at 3,000 miles (5 000 km) since your last oil change. Remember to reset the oil life system whenever the oil is changed. How to Reset the Engine Oil Life System The Engine Oil Life System calculates when to change the engine oil and ﬁlter based on vehicle use. Whenever the oil is changed, reset the system so it can calculate when the next oil change is required. If a situation occurs where you change the oil prior to the Service Engine Oil message being displayed, reset the system. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-11 water, or a good hand cleaner. Wash or properly dispose of clothing or rags containing used engine oil. See the manufacturer’s warnings about the use and disposal of oil products. Used oil can be a threat to the environment. If you change your own oil, be sure to drain all the oil from the ﬁlter before disposal. Never dispose of oil by putting it in the trash, pouring it on the ground, into sewers, or into streams or bodies of water. Instead, recycle it by taking it to a place that collects used oil. If you have a problem properly disposing of used oil, ask your dealer/retailer, a service station, or a local recycling center for help. Engine Air Cleaner/Filter See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6 for the location of the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter. When to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Inspect the air cleaner/ﬁlter at the Maintenance II intervals and replace it at the ﬁrst oil change after each 50,000 mile (83 000 km) interval. See “Schedule Maintenance” in Service and Maintenance for more information. If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the ﬁlter at each engine oil change. After changing the engine oil, reset the system: 1. Turn the ignition key to ON/RUN with the engine off. 2. Fully press and release the accelerator pedal three times within ﬁve seconds. If the Service Engine Oil message does not appear, the system is reset. If the Service Engine Oil message displays, you will need to reset the system again. What to Do with Used Oil Used engine oil contains certain elements that can be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-12 Vehicle Service and Care How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To inspect the air cleaner/ﬁlter, remove the ﬁlter from the vehicle and lightly shake the ﬁlter to release loose dust and dirt. If the ﬁlter remains caked with dirt, a new ﬁlter is required. To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter: 1. Open the hood. See Hood Release on page 9-5. 2. Locate the air ﬁlter housing on the front of the driver side of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6. 3. On the V8 engine, remove the airﬂow sensor connector by pushing in the tab and pulling straight back. 4. Remove the ﬁve retaining clips on the air ﬁlter housing. 5. Pull straight up on cover, while holding the cover remove the air ﬁlter. 6. Install the air ﬁlter. 7. Close the air ﬁlter housing cover and clip the ﬁve retaining clips. 8. On the V8 engine push in the airﬂow sensor connector. { CAUTION Operating the engine with the air cleaner/ﬁlter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop ﬂames if the engine backﬁres. If it is not there and the engine backﬁres, you could be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/ﬁlter off. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-13 If the air cleaner/ﬁlter is Notice: off, a backﬁre can cause a damaging engine ﬁre. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/ﬁlter in place when you are driving. Automatic Transmission Fluid It is not necessary to check the transmission ﬂuid level. A transmission ﬂuid leak is the only reason for ﬂuid loss. If a leak occurs, take your vehicle to a dealer/retailer and have it repaired as soon as possible. Change the ﬂuid and ﬁlter at the intervals listed in the Maintenance Schedule. See Scheduled Maintenance on page 11-4. Be sure to use the transmission ﬂuid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-12. Notice: Use of the incorrect automatic transmission ﬂuid may damage your vehicle, and the damages may not be covered by your warranty. Always use the automatic transmission ﬂuid listed in Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-12. Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is ﬁlled with DEX-COOL® engine coolant. This coolant is designed to remain in your vehicle for ﬁve years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs ﬁrst, if you add only DEX-COOL® extended life coolant. The following explains your cooling system and how to add coolant when it is low. If you have a problem with engine overheating, see Engine Overheating on page 9-16. A 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant will: (cid:129) Give freezing protection down to −34°F (−37°C). (cid:129) Give boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C). (cid:129) Protect against rust and corrosion. (cid:129) Help keep the proper engine temperature. (cid:129) Let the warning lights and gages work as they should. Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® can cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant may require changing sooner, at the ﬁrst maintenance service after each 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst. Any repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in the vehicle. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-14 Vehicle Service and Care What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and one-half DEX-COOL® coolant which will not damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you do not need to add anything else. { CAUTION Adding only plain water to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. (Continued) CAUTION (Continued) The vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch ﬁre and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant. If an improper coolant Notice: mixture is used, the engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Too much water in the mixture can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core, and other parts. If you use extra If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer/retailer check your cooling system. Notice: inhibitors and/or additives in your vehicle’s cooling system, you could damage your vehicle. Use only the proper mixture of the engine coolant listed in this manual for the cooling system. See Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-12 for more information. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-15 3. When the engine is cold, the coolant level should be at or above the Min mark on the dipstick. After the vehicle has been driven and the engine is at normal operating temperature, the level should be somewhere between half full and the Max mark. 4. If the coolant level is correct, replace the dipstick and turn the cap one-eighth of a turn clockwise. Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL® coolant mixture at the coolant reservoir, but only when the engine is cool. If the coolant reservoir is empty, a special ﬁll procedure is necessary. See Engine Overheating on page 9-16 for instructions on “How to Add Coolant to the Cooling System.” { CAUTION You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol, and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. When replacing the coolant reservoir cap, make sure it is hand-tight and fully seated. Radiator Pressure Cap Notice: The radiator cap on your vehicle is a pressure-type cap and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the cap is properly closed. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6 for more information on location. Checking Coolant The coolant reservoir and dipstick is located in the engine compartment on the passenger side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6 for more information on location. 1. Turn off the ignition. 2. Turn the coolant dipstick cap one-eighth of a turn counterclockwise and slowly pull the dipstick straight up. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-16 Vehicle Service and Care Engine Overheating There is an engine coolant temperature warning light on your vehicle’s instrument panel. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 4-17. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine { CAUTION Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down. Wait until there is no sign of steam or coolant before you open the hood. (Continued) CAUTION (Continued) If you keep driving when your engine is overheated, the liquids in it can catch ﬁre. You or others could be badly burned. Stop your engine if it overheats, and get out of the vehicle until the engine is cool. If the engine catches ﬁre Notice: because of being driven with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine An engine coolant temperature warning can indicate a serious problem. See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 4-17. If you get an engine coolant temperature warning, but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: (cid:129) Climb a long hill on a hot day. (cid:129) Stop after high-speed driving. (cid:129) Idle for long periods in traffic. If you get the engine coolant temperature warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. If your air conditioner is on, turn it off. 2. In heavy traffic, let the engine idle in N (Neutral) while stopped. If it is safe to do so, pull off the road, shift to P (Park) or N (Neutral) and let the engine idle. 3. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the windows as necessary. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-17 Cooling System When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, this is what you see: V6 Engine A. Coolant Reservoir and Dipstick B. Radiator Pressure Cap If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If the warning does not come back on, you can drive normally. If the warning continues and you have not stopped, pull over, stop, and park your vehicle right away. If there is still no sign of steam, you can idle the engine for three minutes while you are parked. If you still have the warning, turn off the engine and get everyone out of the vehicle until it cools down. You may decide not to lift the hood but to get service help right away. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-18 Vehicle Service and Care V8 Engine A. Coolant Reservoir and Dipstick B. Radiator Pressure Cap { CAUTION An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can cause injury. Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from any underhood electric fan. The coolant level should be at or above the top mark on the coolant reservoir dipstick. If it is not, you may have a leak at the radiator pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump, or somewhere else in the cooling system. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-19 Notice: Using coolant other than DEX-COOL® can cause premature engine, heater core, or radiator corrosion. In addition, the engine coolant could require changing sooner, at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst. Any repairs would not be covered by the vehicle warranty. Always use DEX-COOL® (silicate-free) coolant in the vehicle. How to Add Coolant to the Cooling System Notice: This vehicle has a speciﬁc coolant ﬁll procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause the engine to overheat and be severely damaged. If no coolant is visible in the coolant reservoir, add coolant as follows: { CAUTION Adding only plain water to the cooling system can be dangerous. Plain water, or some other liquid such as alcohol, can boil before the proper coolant mixture will. The vehicle’s coolant warning system is set for the proper coolant mixture. With plain water or the wrong mixture, the engine could get too hot but you would not get the overheat warning. The engine could catch ﬁre and you or others could be burned. Use a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and DEX-COOL® coolant. { CAUTION Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot. Do not touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Do not run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could lose all coolant. That could cause an engine ﬁre, and you could be burned. Get any leak ﬁxed before you drive the vehicle. If there seems to be no leak, with the engine on, check to see if the electric engine cooling fans are running. If the engine is overheating, both fans should be running. If they are not, your vehicle needs service. Notice: Engine damage from running the engine without coolant is not covered by the warranty. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-20 Vehicle Service and Care In cold weather, water Notice: can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. { CAUTION You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Do not spill coolant on a hot engine. 1. Check the engine coolant reservoir (A) level and, if required, top with coolant. See Engine Coolant on page 9-13. 2. Locate the radiator pressure cap (B). { CAUTION Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap — even a little — they can (Continued) CAUTION (Continued) come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot. Wait for the cooling system and radiator pressure cap to cool if you ever have to turn the pressure cap. 3. Cover the cap with a thick cloth and turn it slowly counterclockwise and remove. 4. If there is no coolant or the level is low, slowly ﬁll the system through the radiator pressure cap opening with a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and a DEX-COOL® coolant until full. Wait 30 seconds for coolant to settle and top off if the level drops. Do not spill coolant on the accessory drive belts. If a spill occurs, rinse the belt with fresh water. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-21 5. Start the engine. 6. With the engine idling, top off the coolant through the radiator pressure cap opening until full. Wait 30 seconds for the coolant to settle and top off, if the level drops. 7. Once the system is full, put the radiator pressure cap back on by turning clockwise. 8. Turn off the ignition. 9. Check the coolant level in the reservoir and ﬁll it until the level is at the top of the dipstick. Power Steering Fluid Power Steering Fluid Level Power steering ﬂuid is used in all vehicles. Check the level after the vehicle has been driven for at least twenty minutes so the ﬂuid is warm. How to Check Power Steering Fluid To check the power steering ﬂuid, do the following: 1. Turn the key off and let the engine compartment cool down. 2. The power steering ﬂuid reservoir is located on the driver side toward the front of the engine compartment. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6. 3. Wipe the cap and the top of the reservoir clean. V6 Engine 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-22 Vehicle Service and Care V8 Engine 4. Turn the cap counterclockwise and pull it straight up. 5. When the engine is hot, the level should be at the hot MAX level. When the engine is cold, the ﬂuid level should be between MIN and MAX on the dipstick. 6. Replace the cap. Adding Power Steering Fluid To determine what kind of ﬂuid to use, see Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 11-12. Always use the proper ﬂuid. Failure to use the proper ﬂuid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. 1. Turn the ignition to LOCK/OFF. 2. Top off with power steering ﬂuid. Do not overﬁll the reservoir. 3. Push the cap straight down and turn clockwise to tighten. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer ﬂuid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a ﬂuid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid Open the cap with the washer symbol on it. Add washer ﬂuid until the tank is full. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 9-6 for reservoir location. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-23 Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected for wear or cracking. To replace the windshield wiper blades: 1. Turn the wiper switch to the off position. 2. Turn the ignition to the LOCK/OFF position. 4. Press the two clips at either side of the wiper blade then tilt the wiper blade at 90° to the wiper arm and remove. 5. Replace the wiper blade by pressing in the clip and turning the blade toward the arm to reset the clip with the wiper arm. 6. Lower the wiper arm on to the windshield. 3. Raise the wiper arm away from the windshield. Notice: (cid:129) When using concentrated washer ﬂuid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. (cid:129) Do not mix water with ready-to-use washer ﬂuid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer ﬂuid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water does not clean as well as washer ﬂuid. (cid:129) Fill the washer ﬂuid tank only three-quarters full when it is very cold. This allows for ﬂuid expansion if freezing occurs, which could damage the tank if it is completely full. (cid:129) Do not use engine coolant (antifreeze) in your windshield washer. It can damage the vehicle’s windshield washer system and paint. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-24 Vehicle Service and Care Brakes Brake Fluid The brake master cylinder reservoir is ﬁlled with DOT-4 brake ﬂuid. There are only two reasons why the brake ﬂuid level in the reservoir might go down. The ﬁrst is that the brake ﬂuid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the ﬂuid level goes back up. The other reason is that ﬂuid is leaking out of the brake hydraulic system. If it is, have the brake hydraulic system ﬁxed, since a leak means that sooner or later the brakes will not work well. It is not a good idea to top off the brake ﬂuid. Adding brake ﬂuid will not correct a leak. If ﬂuid is added when the linings are worn, there will be too much ﬂuid when new brake linings are installed. Add or remove brake ﬂuid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. { CAUTION If your vehicle has too much brake ﬂuid, it can spill on the engine. The ﬂuid will burn if the engine is hot enough. You or others could be burned, and your vehicle could be damaged. Add brake ﬂuid only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. When the brake ﬂuid falls to a low level, the brake warning light will come on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 4-16. What to Add When you do need brake ﬂuid, use only DOT-4 brake ﬂuid. It is recommended that you ﬂush the brake hydraulic system and reﬁll it with new DOT-4 ﬂuid at a regular maintenance service every two years. See “Additional Required Services” in the Maintenance Schedule. Use new brake ﬂuid from a sealed container only. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule. Always clean the brake ﬂuid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it. This helps keep dirt from entering the reservoir. { CAUTION With the wrong kind of ﬂuid in the brake hydraulic system, the brakes might not work well. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake ﬂuid. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-25 Brake Wear Your vehicle has disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound can come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving, except when you are pushing on the brake pedal ﬁrmly. { CAUTION The brake wear warning sound means that soon the brakes will not work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced. Notice: Continuing to drive with worn-out brake pads could result in costly brake repair. Some driving conditions or climates can cause a brake squeal when the brakes are ﬁrst applied or lightly applied. This does not mean something is wrong with the brakes. Properly torqued wheel nuts are necessary to help prevent brake pulsation. When tires are rotated, inspect brake pads for wear and evenly tighten wheel nuts in the proper sequence to torque speciﬁcations in Capacities and Speciﬁcations on page 10-2. Brake linings should always be replaced as complete axle sets. Brake Pedal Travel See your dealer/retailer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign that brake service might be required. Brake Adjustment Every time you apply the brakes, with or without the vehicle moving, the brakes adjust for wear. Notice: (cid:129) Using the wrong ﬂuid can badly damage brake hydraulic system parts. For example, just a few drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in the brake hydraulic system can damage brake hydraulic system parts so badly that they will have to be replaced. Do not let someone put in the wrong kind of ﬂuid. If you spill brake ﬂuid on your vehicle’s painted surfaces, the paint ﬁnish can be damaged. Be careful not to spill brake ﬂuid on your vehicle. If you do, wash it off immediately. See Exterior Cleaning on page 9-94. (cid:129) 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-26 Vehicle Service and Care Battery Your vehicle has a maintenance free battery. When it is time for a new battery, see your dealer/retailer for one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label. The battery is located in the trunk behind a trim panel on the driver’s side. Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling. Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality brake parts. When you replace parts of the braking system — for example, when the brake linings wear down and you need new ones put in — be sure you get new approved replacement parts. If you do not, the brakes might not work properly. For example, if someone puts in brake linings that are wrong for your vehicle, the balance between the front and rear brakes can change — for the worse. The braking performance you have come to expect can change in many other ways if someone puts in the wrong replacement brake parts. Vehicle Storage { CAUTION Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you are not careful. See Jump Starting on page 9-80 for tips on working around a battery without getting hurt. Infrequent Usage: If you drive your vehicle infrequently, remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery. This will help keep the battery from running down. Extended Storage: For extended storage of your vehicle, remove the black, negative (−) cable from the battery or use a battery trickle charger. This will help maintain the charge of the battery over an extended period of time. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-27 (cid:129) Be placed so it is at a right angle to the wall. (cid:129) Not have any snow, ice, or mud on it. (cid:129) Be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being done. (cid:129) Have a full tank of fuel and one person or 160 lbs (75 kg) on the driver seat. (cid:129) Have all tires properly inﬂated. Headlamp aiming is done with the vehicle’s low-beam headlamps. The high-beam headlamps will be correctly aimed if the low-beam headlamps are aimed properly. To adjust the vertical aim on the headlamps: 1. Open the hood. Hood Release on page 9-5. 2. Locate the aim dot on the lens of the low-beam headlamp. 3. Record the distance from the ground to the aim dot on the low-beam headlamp. Headlamp Aiming The optical headlamp aiming system has been preset at the factory and should need no further adjustment. However, if the vehicle is damaged adjustment may be necessary. If oncoming vehicles ﬂash their high beams at you, this may also mean the vertical aim needs to be adjusted. It is recommended that the vehicle is taken to your dealer/retailer for service if the headlamps need to be re-aimed. It is possible however, to re-aim the headlamps as described. The vehicle should: (cid:129) Be placed so the headlamps are 25 ft. (7.6 m) from a light colored wall. (cid:129) Have all four tires on a perfectly level surface which is level all the way to the wall. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-28 Vehicle Service and Care 6. Turn on the low-beam headlamps and place a piece of cardboard or equivalent in front of the headlamp not being adjusted. Do not place it directly on the headlamp. This allows only the beam of light from the headlamp being adjusted to be seen on the ﬂat surface. The adjustment screw can be turned with a 6 mm socket wrench. 8. Turn the vertical aiming screw clockwise or counterclockwise until the headlamp beam is aimed to the horizontal tape line. 4. At the wall, measure from the ground upward (A) to the recorded distance from Step 3 and mark it. 5. Draw or tape a horizontal line (B) on the wall the width of the vehicle at the height of the mark in Step 4. Notice: Do not cover a headlamp to improve beam cut-off when aiming. Covering a headlamp may cause excessive heat build-up which may cause damage to the headlamp. Driver Side (Passenger Side Similar) 7. Locate the vertical headlamp aiming screws, which are under the hood near each headlamp assembly. 9. Make sure that the light from the headlamp is positioned at the bottom edge of the horizontal tape line. The lamp on the left (A) shows the correct headlamp aim. The lamp on the right (B) shows the incorrect headlamp aim. 10. Repeat Steps 7 through 9 for the opposite headlamp. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-29 Headlamps and Parking Lamps To replace one of these bulbs: If the front turn signal lamp or parking lamp needs to be changed, see your dealer/retailer. 1. Open the hood. See Hood Release on page 9-5. A. Front Turn Signal Lamp/ Parking Lamp B. Low Beam Headlamp C. High Beam Headlamp 2. Remove the radiator support by turning the head screws counterclockwise and then pulling them straight out. 3. For the passenger side pull up on the coolant bottle ﬁller neck to remove it and place it to one side. Let the ﬁller neck drain before pulling it all the way out. Place a clean towel over the opening of the coolant bottle after removing it. Bulb Replacement For the proper type of replacement bulbs, see Replacement Bulbs on page 9-32. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer/retailer. Halogen Bulbs { CAUTION Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-30 Vehicle Service and Care 4. For the driver side remove the clip from the air cleaner/ﬁlter cover. Move the cover to the back, out of the way. 5. Turn the dust cap counterclockwise to remove. 6. Press the two prongs together on the connector to remove the wiring harness connector. 7. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise and pull it out to remove from the lamp assembly. 8. Pull the old bulb straight out of the bulb socket. 9. Push the new bulb straight into the bulb socket until it clicks. 10. Reconnect the wiring harness to the bulb socket. 11. Push the bulb socket into the lamp assembly and turn it clockwise to lock it into place. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-31 To replace one of these bulbs: For any lamp not listed here, see your dealer/retailer to replace. 1. Open the trunk. See Trunk on page 2-10. 2. Raise the spare tire cover. See Removing the Spare Tire and Tools on page 9-72 for more information. 3. Turn the four convenience net hooks securing the plastic trunk trim counterclockwise. 4. Pull the trunk trim straight up to remove. 5. Turn the trunk lining securing pins counterclockwise and pull down at the same time to remove. 6. Lower the spare tire cover. 7. Turn the bulb socket counterclockwise to remove it from the rear lamp housing. 8. Lightly press the bulb and turn it counterclockwise to remove it from the bulb holder. 12. Turn the dust cap clockwise to lock it into place. 13. For the driver side reinstall the air cleaner/ﬁlter cover. 14. For the passenger side reinstall the coolant bottle ﬁller neck. 15. Reinstall the radiator support screws. Taillamps A. Turn Signal Lamp B. Stoplamp/Taillamp C. Back-up Lamp 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-32 Vehicle Service and Care 12. Raise the spare tire cover. 13. Turn the trunk lining securing pins clockwise to lock into place. 14. Return the plastic trunk trim to its original location. 15. Reinstall the plastic retaining pins. 9. Push the new bulb into the socket and turn it clockwise to lock it into place. 10. Push the bulb socket straight in and turn it clockwise to lock it into place. 11. Make sure the seals are applied to the taillamp assembly and screws. Replacement Bulbs Exterior Lamp High-Beam Headlamp Low-Beam Headlamp Stoplamp/Taillamp Rear Turn Signal Lamp Back-up Lamp Bulb Number H9 H11 P21/5W PY21W P21W For replacement bulbs not listed here, contact your dealer/retailer. Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment Notice: Do not add anything electrical to your vehicle unless you check with your dealer/retailer ﬁrst. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage would not be covered by your warranty. Some add-on electrical equipment can keep other components from working as they should. Add-on equipment can drain your vehicle’s battery, even if your vehicle is not operating. Your vehicle has an airbag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your vehicle, see Servicing Your Airbag-Equipped Vehicle on page 1-30. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-33 Instrument Panel Fuse Block Power Windows and Other Power Options Circuit breakers in the fuse block protect the power windows and other power accessories. When the current load is too heavy, the circuit breaker opens and closes, protecting the circuit until the problem is ﬁxed or goes away. The instrument panel fuse block is located on the end of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side of the vehicle. To access the fuses, open the fuse panel door by pulling out. To reinstall the door, push the door back into its original location. Headlamp Wiring The headlamp wiring is protected by fuses in the fuse block. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to turn off. If this happens, have your headlamp wiring checked right away. Windshield Wiper Fuses The windshield wiper motor is protected by a circuit breaker and a fuse. If the motor overheats due to heavy snow, etc., the wiper will stop until the motor cools. If the overload is caused by some electrical problem, have it ﬁxed. 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual 9-34 Vehicle Service and Care Instrument Panel Fuse Block - Fuse Puller Shown Fuses Usage F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12 F13 F14 Airbag Trunk Release Door Locks Inadvertent Power LED Courtesy/Turn Signal Lamps/Front Passenger Turn Signal Rear and Side Passenger Side Turn Signal Spare Driver Side Turn Signal Body Control Module Stoplamps Interior Lamps Discrete Logic Ignition Sensor/Theft Deterrent System Rear Cigarette Lighter Auxiliary Power 2008 - Pontiac G8 Owner Manual Vehicle Service and Care 9-35 Engine Compartment Fuse Block Circuit Breakers Usage B1 B2 B3 B4 Spare Power Windows Power Seats Spare Relays Usage R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6 R7 R8 R9 R10 R11 R12 Retain Accessory Power 1 Door Locks Passenger Side Door Lock Spare Trunk Release

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2008 Pontiac G8 Owners Manual