2001 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual
Year:
2001
Make:
Pontiac
Model:
Firebird
Rating:
Table of Contents
2001 Pontiac Firebird Owner's Manual
1
24-hour Roadside Assistance
2
Copyright General Motors Corp. 2000
3
Table of Contents:
4
1. Seats and Restraint Systems
4
2. Features and Controls
4
3. Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
5
4. Your Driving and the Road
5
5. Problems on the Road
5
6. Service and Appearance Care
6
7. Maintenance Schedule
6
8. Customer Assistance Information
7
For Canadian Owners Who Prefer a French Language Manual:
8
How to Use this Manual
9
Safety Warnings and Symbols
9
Vehicle Damage Warnings
10
Vehicle Symbols
11
Service Station Guide
12
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems
13
Seats and Seat Controls
14
Manual Front Seats
14
4-Way Manual Seats
15
6-Way Power Seat (If Equipped)
15
Reclining Front Seatbacks
16
Head Restraints
18
Front Seatback Latches
18
Folding Rear Seatback
19
Safety Belts: They re for Everyone
19
Why Safety Belts Work
21
Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers
24
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly
25
Adults
25
Driver Position
25
Lap-Shoulder Belt
25
Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy
31
Right Front Passenger Position
32
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
33
How the Air Bag System Works
35
Where are the air bags?
35
When should an air bag inflate?
37
What makes an air bag inflate?
37
How does an air bag restrain?
37
What will you see after an air bag inflates?
38
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
39
Rear Seat Passengers
40
Lap-Shoulder Belt
40
Children
43
Infants and Young Children
43
Restraint Systems for Children
47
Where to Put the Restraint
50
Top Strap
50
Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Seat Position
52
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position
54
Older Children
57
Safety Belt Extender
60
Checking Your Restraint Systems
60
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash
60
Section 2 Features and Controls
61
Windows
62
Manual Windows
62
Power Windows (If Equipped)
63
Keys
64
Door Locks
66
Power Door Locks (If Equipped)
67
Last Door Closed Locking (If Equipped)
67
Lockout Prevention (If Equipped)
68
Leaving Your Vehicle
68
Keyless Entry System (If Equipped)
68
Operation
70
Alarm/Panic Mode
70
Transmitter Verification (If Equipped)
70
Matching Transmitter(s) to Your Vehicle
71
Battery Replacement
72
Resynchronization
73
Hatch
73
Hatch Release
74
Remote Hatch Release
74
Trunk Release Handle (If Equipped)
75
Theft
76
Key in the Ignition
76
Parking at Night
76
Parking Lots
76
Content Theft-Deterrent/Alarm System (If Equipped)
77
Arming the System
77
Turning Off the Alarm
77
Shock Sensor
78
Remote Keyless Entry Transmitter Locking
79
Power Door Lock Switch Locking
79
Passive Arming
79
Disarming the System
79
PASS-Key II
80
Feature Customization (If Equipped)
82
Entering Programming Mode
83
Exit Lighting and Delayed Illumination
83
Programmable Modes
83
Last Door Closed Locking and Lockout Prevention
84
Programmable Modes
84
Remote Keyless Entry Verification
85
Programmable Modes
85
Theft-Deterrent Arming Method
86
Programmable Modes
86
Theft-Deterrent Arming Verification
87
Programmable Modes
87
Driver s Door Alarm Delay and Shock Sensor Enable
88
Programmable Modes
88
Exiting Programming Mode
89
New Vehicle Break-In
89
Ignition Positions
90
Key Release Button (If Equipped)
91
Retained Accessory Power (RAP)
92
Starting Your Engine
92
Automatic Transmission
92
Manual Transmission
92
Starting Your 3800 Series II V6 Engine
93
Starting Your 5.7L V8 Engine
94
Engine Coolant Heater (Canada Only)
95
To Use the Engine Coolant Heater
96
Automatic Transmission Operation
97
Manual Transmission Operation
100
5-Speed
100
Shift Speeds
102
Skip Shift Light (5.7L V8 Engine)
103
Computer- Aided Manual Transmission Shift Speeds
103
Parking Brake
104
Shifting Into PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission Only)
105
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running (Automatic Transmission Only)
106
Torque Lock (Automatic Transmission)
107
Shifting Out of PARK (P) (Automatic Transmission Only)
107
Parking Your Vehicle (Manual Transmission Models Only)
107
Parking Over Things That Burn
108
Engine Exhaust
108
Running Your Engine While You re Parked (Automatic Transmission)
109
Limited-Slip Rear Axle
110
Horn
110
Tilt Wheel
110
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
111
Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator
111
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer
112
Windshield Wipers
112
Windshield Washer
112
Cruise Control
113
Setting Cruise Control
114
Resuming a Set Speed
114
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control
114
Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control
115
Passing Another Vehicle While Using Cruise Control
115
Using Cruise Control on Hills
115
Ending Out of Cruise Control
115
Erasing Speed Memory
115
Exterior Lamps
116
Headlamps on Reminder
116
Headlamp Doors
117
Daytime Running Lamps
117
Fog Lamps
118
Interior Lamps
119
Instrument Panel Brightness Control
119
Courtesy Lamps
119
Delayed Illumination
120
Exit Lighting
120
Front Map Lamps
120
Mirrors
120
Inside Day/Night Rearview Mirror
120
Outside Manual Adjustable Mirror
120
Manual Remote Control Mirror
120
Power Remote Control Mirrors (If Equipped)
121
Convex Outside Mirror
121
Storage Compartments
122
Glove Box
122
Front Console
122
Map Pocket
122
Cassette and Compact Disc Storage
122
Cargo Cover
122
Using the Cargo Cover
122
Removing the Cargo Cover
123
Ashtray and Cigarette Lighter
124
Sun Visors
124
Visor Vanity Mirror
124
Accessory Power Outlet
125
Floor Mats
125
T-Top Roof Panels (If Equipped)
125
Removing the T-Top Roof Panels
125
Storing the T-Top Roof Panels
127
Installing the T-Top Roof Panels
128
T-Top Sunshades
130
Convertible Top (If Equipped)
132
Lowering Your Convertible Top
132
Installing the Boot Cover
134
Removing Your Boot Cover
136
Raising Your Convertible Top
137
The Instrument Panel Your Information System
140
Instrument Panel Cluster
142
Speedometer and Odometer
143
Trip Odometer
143
Tachometer
144
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators
144
Safety Belt Reminder Light
145
Air Bag Readiness Light
145
Voltmeter
146
Brake System Warning Light
147
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
148
Traction Control System Warning Light (Option)
148
Low Traction Light
149
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
149
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light in the United States or Check Engine Light in Canada)
150
If the Light Is Flashing
151
If the Light Is On Steady
151
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs
152
Oil Pressure Gage
153
Low Oil Light
154
Oil Change Light
154
Service Vehicle Light
155
Check Gages Light
155
Hatch Ajar Light
155
Fuel Gage
155
Low Fuel Light
156
Reduced Engine Power Light (V6 Engine Only)
156
Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems
157
Comfort Controls
158
Fan Control Knob
158
Temperature Control Knob
158
Air Control Knob
158
Cooling
159
Heating
159
Bi- Level
159
Defogging and Defrosting
160
Rear Window Defogger
160
Ventilation System
161
Ventilation Tips
161
Audio Systems
162
Setting the Clock
162
Monsoon AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Equalizer
162
Playing the Radio
163
Finding a Station
163
Setting the Tone
163
Adjusting the Speakers
164
Playing a Cassette Tape
164
CD Adapter Kits
166
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Equalizer (If Equipped)
166
Playing the Radio
167
Finding a Station
167
Setting the Tone
167
Adjusting the Speakers
167
Playing a Compact Disc
168
Trunk-Mounted CD Changer (Option)
169
Compact Disc Errors
171
Playing a Compact Disc
172
Theft-Deterrent Feature
174
Activating the Theft- Deterrent Feature
174
Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss
175
Disabling the Theft- Deterrent Feature
175
Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped)
176
Understanding Radio Reception
177
AM
177
FM Stereo
177
Tips About Your Audio System
177
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player
178
Care of Your Compact Discs
179
Care of Your Compact Disc Player
179
Fixed Mast Antenna
179
Power Antenna Mast Care
180
Section 4 Your Driving and the Road
181
Defensive Driving
182
Drunken Driving
183
Control of a Vehicle
186
Using Anti- Lock
189
Braking in Emergencies
189
Traction Control System (Option)
189
Steering
191
Power Steering
191
Steering Tips
191
Driving on Curves
191
Steering in Emergencies
192
Off-Road Recovery
193
Passing
193
Loss of Control
195
Skidding
195
Driving at Night
196
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads
198
Hydroplaning
199
Driving Through Deep Standing Water
200
Driving Through Flowing Water
200
Some Other Rainy Weather Tips
200
City Driving
201
Freeway Driving
202
Before Leaving on a Long Trip
203
Highway Hypnosis
204
Hill and Mountain Roads
204
Winter Driving
206
Driving on Snow or Ice
207
If You re Caught in a Blizzard
208
Recreational Vehicle Towing
210
Loading Your Vehicle
210
Towing a Trailer
212
If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
213
Weight of the Trailer
213
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
214
Total Weight on Your Vehicle s Tires
215
Hitches
215
Safety Chains
215
Trailer Brakes
215
Driving with a Trailer
216
Following Distance
216
Passing
216
Backing Up
216
Making Turns
217
Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer
217
Driving On Grades
218
Parking on Hills
218
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill
219
Maintenance When Trailer Towing
219
Engine Cooling When Trailer Towing
219
Section 5 Problems on the Road
220
Hazard Warning Flashers
221
Other Warning Devices
222
Jump Starting
222
Towing Your Vehicle
226
Engine Overheating
227
Overheated Engine Protection Operating Mode
227
If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
227
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
228
Cooling System
229
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank
231
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator (3800 V6 Engine Only)
234
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator (V8 Engine Only)
237
If a Tire Goes Flat
240
Changing a Flat Tire
240
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools
241
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire
244
Storing a Flat or Spare Tire and Tools
249
Compact Spare Tire
251
If You re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow
252
Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out
252
Section 6 Service and Appearance Care
253
Service
254
Doing Your Own Service Work
254
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle
255
Fuel
255
Fuels in Foreign Countries
257
Filling Your Tank
257
Filling a Portable Fuel Container
260
Checking Things Under the Hood
260
Hood Release
261
Engine Compartment Overview
262
Engine Oil
264
Checking Engine Oil
264
When to Add Engine Oil
265
What Kind of Engine Oil to Use
266
Engine Oil Additives
268
When to Change Engine Oil
268
How to Reset the Oil Change Light
269
What to Do with Used Oil
269
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
269
Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Replacement
270
Automatic Transmission Fluid
272
When to Check and Change
272
How to Check
272
Checking the Fluid Level
273
How to Add Fluid
275
Manual Transmission Fluid
275
When to Check
275
How to Check
275
How to Add Fluid
276
Hydraulic Clutch
276
When to Check and What to Use
277
How to Check and Add Fluid
277
Rear Axle
277
When to Check and Change Lubricant
277
How to Check Lubricant
277
What to Use
277
Standard Differential
277
Limited- Slip Differential
277
Engine Coolant
278
What to Use
279
Checking Coolant
280
Adding Coolant to the Recovery Tank
280
Radiator Pressure Cap
281
Power Steering Fluid
282
When to Check Power Steering Fluid
282
How to Check Power Steering Fluid
282
What to Use
282
Windshield Washer Fluid
283
What to Use
283
Adding Washer Fluid
283
Brakes
284
Brake Fluid
284
Checking Brake Fluid
285
What to Add
285
Brake Wear
286
Brake Pedal Travel
287
Brake Adjustment
287
Replacing Brake System Parts
287
Battery
288
Vehicle Storage
288
Bulb Replacement
289
Halogen Bulbs
289
Headlamps
289
Center High-Mounted Stoplamp
291
Rear Lamps
292
Sidemarker
293
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
294
Wiper Blade Element Replacement
295
Tires
296
Inflation -- Tire Pressure
297
When to Check
298
How to Check
298
Tire Inspection and Rotation
298
When It s Time for New Tires
300
Buying New Tires
300
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
301
Treadwear
302
Traction AA, A, B, C
302
Temperature A, B, C
302
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
303
Wheel Replacement
303
Used Replacement Wheels
304
Tire Chains
304
Appearance Care
305
Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle
305
Cleaning of Fabric/Carpet
305
Using Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner on Fabric
306
Special Fabric Cleaning Problems
306
Cleaning Vinyl
307
Cleaning Leather
307
Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel
307
Cleaning Interior Plastic Components
307
Care of Safety Belts
307
Cleaning Glass Surfaces
308
Cleaning the Outside of the Windshield and Wiper Blades
308
Weatherstrips
308
Cleaning a Removable Roof Panel
309
Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle
309
Washing Your Vehicle
309
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
309
Finish Care
309
Cleaning Your Convertible Top
310
Cleaning Aluminum or Chrome- Plated Wheels (If Equipped)
311
Cleaning Tires
311
Sheet Metal Damage
311
Finish Damage
312
Underbody Maintenance
312
Chemical Paint Spotting
312
GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
313
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
314
Engine Identification
314
Service Parts Identification Label
314
Electrical System
315
Add-On Electrical Equipment
315
Headlamps
315
Windshield Wipers
315
Power Windows and Other Power Options
315
Fuses and Circuit Breakers
316
Main Fuse Block
317
Underhood Electrical Center
319
Replacement Bulbs
321
Capacities and Specifications
322
Engine Specifications
322
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
323
Vehicle Dimensions
323
Section 7 Maintenance Schedule
324
Introduction
325
Your Vehicle and the Environment
325
Maintenance Requirements
325
How This Section is Organized
326
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services
327
Using Your Maintenance Schedule
327
Scheduled Maintenance
328
Footnotes
328
Scheduled Maintenance
329
Engine Oil Scheduled Maintenance
329
Scheduled Maintenance
330
Part B: Owner Checks and Services
340
At Each Fuel Fill
340
Engine Oil Level Check
340
Engine Coolant Level Check
340
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
340
At Least Once a Month
340
Tire Inflation Check
340
Cassette Deck Service
340
At Least Twice a Year
341
Restraint System Check
341
Wiper Blade Check
341
Weatherstrip Lubrication
341
Manual Transmission Check
341
Automatic Transmission Check
341
Hydraulic Clutch System Check
341
At Least Once a Year
342
Key Lock Cylinders Service
342
Body Lubrication Service
342
Starter Switch Check
342
Automatic Transmission Shift Lock Control System Check
343
Ignition Transmission Lock Check
343
Parking Brake and Automatic Transmission PARK (P) Mechanism Check
344
Underbody Flushing Service
344
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections
345
Steering and Suspension Inspection
345
Exhaust System Inspection
345
Engine Cooling System Inspection
345
Throttle System Inspection (Except 3800 Series V6 Engine)
346
Rear Axle Service
346
Brake System Inspection
346
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants
347
Part E: Maintenance Record
349
Section 8 Customer Assistance Information
352
Pontiac Cares
353
What Makes Up Pontiac Cares?
354
Customer Satisfaction Procedure
354
Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users
356
Customer Assistance Offices
356
United States
356
Canada
357
Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U. S. Virgin Islands)
357
GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities
358
Pontiac Roadside Assistance Program
359
Security While You Travel
359
Canadian Roadside Assistance
360
Courtesy Transportation
361
Plan Ahead When Possible
361
Transportation Options
361
Shuttle Service
361
Public Transportation or Fuel Reimbursement
361
Courtesy Rental Vehicle
362
Additional Program Information
362
Warranty Information
362
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
363
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT
363
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS
364
2001 Pontiac Firebird Overview
Introduction
The 2001 Pontiac Firebird stands as a quintessential American muscle car, blending vintage Pontiac charm with modern performance capabilities. Known for its aggressive styling and spirited driving experience, this model embodies the essence of the sports car genre, making it a coveted choice for enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. With robust build quality and a sultry design, the Firebird captures attention on both the streets and the racetrack.
Powertrains
The 2001 Pontiac Firebird offers two impressive powertrain options that ensure thrilling performance. The base model is equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 200 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, providing a spirited acceleration experience. For those seeking more power, the Firebird Trans Am features a 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering an exhilarating 305 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque, perfect for speed enthusiasts. Both engines can be paired with a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic or an engaging six-speed manual transmission, giving drivers a dynamic driving experience tailored to their preferences.
Trims
The 2001 Firebird is available in three main trims: the base Firebird, the sporty Firebird Formula, and the powerful Firebird Trans Am. The base model offers a comprehensive list of features for everyday driving comfort. The Formula trim amplifies performance features alongside enhancements like a rear spoiler and alloy wheels. The Trans Am represents the pinnacle of the Firebird lineup, boasting aggressive exterior styling, upgraded suspension, and performance-tuned components that cater to the serious driver.
Features
Inside, the 2001 Pontiac Firebird melds functionality and style. Standard features include air conditioning, a premium audio system, and comfortable seating, while higher trims may offer leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and advanced audio options. Safety features such as anti-lock brakes and dual airbags can be found, ensuring a secure driving experience even at higher speeds.
Owners Manual
The 2001 Pontiac Firebird owners manual serves as an essential guide, providing detailed information about the vehicle’s features, specifications, and maintenance schedules. It is invaluable for understanding how to optimize performance, troubleshoot issues, and ensure longevity through proper care. Owners are encouraged to refer to this manual for recommended service intervals, safety tips, and operational instructions, making their driving experience as smooth as possible.
User manual download
The Pontiac Firebird owner manual for the 2001 model year is to be found in PDF downloadable format on this page. The owner manual for the model year 2001 is free and in English, but the repair manuals are usually not easy to get and may cost more.
Posted by, John Mana
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