2008 PONTIAC G5 ECU

Weight of the Trailer
How heavy can a trailer safely be?
It should never weigh more than 1,000 lbs (450 kg).
But even that can be too heavy.
It depends on how you plan to use your rig. For example,
speed, altitude, road grades, outside temperature and
how much your vehicle is used to pull a trailer are all
important. It can also depend on any special equipment
that you have on your vehicle, and the amount of tongue
weight the vehicle can carry. See “Weight of the Trailer
Tongue” later in this section for more information.
Maximum trailer weight is calculated assuming only the
driver is in the tow vehicle and it has all the required
trailering equipment. The weight of additional optional
equipment, passengers and cargo in the tow vehicle
must be subtracted from the maximum trailer weight.
You can ask your dealer/retailer for our trailering
information or advice. Also, seeCustomer Assistance
Offices on page 7-5for more information.
Weight of the Trailer Tongue
The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight
to measure because it affects the total or gross weight
of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW)
includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you
may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the
vehicle.If you have a lot of options, equipment, passengers, or
cargo in your vehicle, it will reduce the tongue weight your
vehicle can carry, which will also reduce the trailer weight
your vehicle can tow. And if you tow a trailer, you must
add the tongue load to the GVW because your vehicle will
be carrying that weight, too. SeeLoading Your Vehicle on
page 4-25for more information about your vehicle’s
maximum load capacity.
If you are using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer
tongue (A) should weigh 10 to 15 percent of the total
loaded trailer weight (B).
After you have loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and
then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are
proper. If they are not, you may be able to get them right
simply by moving some items around in the trailer.
4-34

Driving with a Trailer
Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience.
Before setting out for the open road, you will want to
get to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of
handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.
And always keep in mind that the vehicle you are
driving is now a good deal longer and not nearly as
responsive as your vehicle is by itself.
Before you start, check all trailer hitch parts and
attachments, safety chains, electrical connector, lamps,
tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has electric
brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and then
apply the trailer brake controller by hand to be sure
the brakes are working. This lets you check your
electrical connection at the same time.
During your trip, check occasionally to be sure that the
load is secure, and that the lamps and any trailer
brakes are still working.
Following Distance
Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as
you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer.
This can help you avoid situations that require
heavy braking and sudden turns.
Passing
You will need more passing distance up ahead when
you are towing a trailer. And, because the vehicle
is a good deal longer, you will need to go much farther
beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to
your lane.
Backing Up
Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand.
Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand
to the left. To move the trailer to the right, move your
hand to the right. Always back up slowly and, if possible,
have someone guide you.
4-36

Coolant Surge Tank Pressure Cap
Notice:If the pressure cap is not tightly installed,
coolant loss and possible engine damage may
occur. Be sure the cap is properly and tightly
secured.
The coolant surge tank pressure cap must be fully
installed on the coolant surge tank. SeeEngine
Compartment Overview on page 5-12for more
information on location.
Engine Overheating
You will nd an engine coolant temperature warning
light on your vehicle’s instrument panel. SeeEngine
Coolant Temperature Warning Light on page 3-36for
more information.
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.
If you keep driving when your engine is
overheated, the liquids in it can catch re.
You or others could be badly burned. Stop
your engine if it overheats, and get out of the
vehicle until the engine is cool.
Notice:If your engine catches re because you
keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be
badly damaged. The costly repairs would not be
covered by your warranty.
5-22

Tire Chains
{CAUTION:
If your vehicle has P205/55R16 or P205/50R17
size tires, do not use tire chains. They can
damage your vehicle because there is not
enough clearance.
Tire chains used on a vehicle without the
proper amount of clearance can cause damage
to the brakes, suspension, or other vehicle
parts. The area damaged by the tire chains
could cause you to lose control of your vehicle
and you or others may be injured in a crash.
Use another type of traction device only if its
manufacturer recommends it for use on your
vehicle and tire size combination and road
conditions. Follow that manufacturer’s
instructions.
CAUTION: (Continued)
CAUTION: (Continued)
To help avoid damage to your vehicle, drive
slowly, readjust, or remove the device if it is
contacting your vehicle, and do not spin your
vehicle’s wheels.
If you do nd traction devices that will t,
install them on the front tires.
Notice:If your vehicle has a tire size other than
P205/55R16 or P205/50R17, use tire chains only
where legal and only when you must. Use only
SAE Class S-type chains that are the proper size for
your tires. Install them on the front tires and tighten
them as tightly as possible with the ends securely
fastened. Drive slowly and follow the chain
manufacturer’s instructions. If you can hear the
chains contacting your vehicle, stop and retighten
them. If the contact continues, slow down until it
stops. Driving too fast or spinning the wheels with
chains on will damage your vehicle.
5-70

A. Cover
B. Retainer
C. Jack and Wheel
Wrench
D. Stow Bolt
Extension Rod
E. Spare Tire
F. Foam Support
G. BoltTo store a at or spare tire and tools:
1. Remove the stow bolt extension rod and sleeve
from the jack.
2. Screw the stow bolt extension rod and the sleeve
into the existing spare tire bolt.
3. If your vehicle has aluminum wheels, rst remove
the center cap with your hand or the wheel wrench.
4. Place the at tire face down into the spare tire tub.
5. Re-attach the wheel wrench to the jack.
6. Place the jack into the center of the at tire, being
careful not to scratch the inside of the wheel.
7. Remove the plastic sleeve from the stow bolt
extension rod. Secure the jack and road wheel
using the larger plastic retainer.
The compact spare tire is for temporary use only.
Replace the compact spare with a full-size tire as soon
as possible.
Uplevel Model
5-84

Engine Coolant Level Check
Check the engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL®
coolant mixture if necessary. SeeEngine Coolant
on page 5-19.
Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
Check the windshield washer uid level in the
windshield washer uid reservoir and add the proper
uid if necessary.
At Least Once a Month
Tire Ination Check
Inspect your vehicle’s tires and make sure they are
inated to the correct pressures. Do not forget to
check the spare tire. SeeInflation - Tire Pressure on
page 5-55. Check to make sure the spare tire is stored
securely. SeeChanging a Flat Tire on page 5-72.
Tire Wear Inspection
Tire rotation may be required for high mileage highway
drivers prior to the Engine Oil Life System service
notication. Check the tires for wear and, if necessary,
rotate the tires. SeeTire Inspection and Rotation on
page 5-62.
At Least Once a Year
Starter Switch Check
{CAUTION:
When you are doing this inspection, the
vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle
moves, you or others could be injured.
1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room
around the vehicle.
2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular
brake. SeeParking Brake on page 2-32.
Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to
turn off the engine immediately if it starts.
3. On automatic transmission vehicles, try to start the
engine in each gear. The vehicle should start only in
PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). If the vehicle starts in
any other position, contact your dealer/retailer for
service.
On manual transmission vehicles, put the shift lever
in NEUTRAL, push the clutch pedal down halfway,
and try to start the engine. The vehicle should start
only when the clutch pedal is pushed down all the
way to the oor. If the vehicle starts when the clutch
pedal is not pushed all the way down, contact your
dealer/retailer for service.
6-9

Roadside Assistance Program
For vehicles purchased in the U.S., call
1-800-ROADSIDE (762-3743); (Text telephone (TTY):
1-888-889-2438).
For vehicles purchased in Canada, call1-800-268-6800.
Service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
As the owner of a new Pontiac vehicle, you are
automatically enrolled in the Pontiac Roadside
Assistance program.
Who is Covered?
Roadside Assistance coverage is for the vehicle
operator, regardless of ownership. In Canada, a person
driving this vehicle without the consent of the owner
is not eligible for coverage.
Services Provided
The following services are provided in the U.S. and
Canada up to 5 years/100,000 miles (160 000 km),
whichever occurs rst, and, in Canada only, up
to a maximum coverage of $100.
Fuel Delivery:Delivery of enough fuel for the
vehicle to get to the nearest service station
(approximately $5 in Canada). In Canada, service
to provide diesel may be restricted. For safety
reasons, propane and other alternative fuels will not
be provided through this service.
Lock-out Service:Lock-out service is covered at
no charge if you are unable to gain entry into
your vehicle. A remote unlock may be available if
you have an active OnStar
®subscription. To ensure
security, the driver must present personal
identication before lock-out service is provided. In
Canada, the vehicle registration is also required.
Emergency Tow From a Public Roadway or
Highway:Tow to the nearest dealership for
warranty service or in the event of a
vehicle-disabling crash. Winch-out assistance is
provided when the vehicle is mired in sand, mud,
or snow.
7-7

Flat Tire Change:Installation of a spare tire in
good condition, when equipped and properly
inated, is covered at no charge. The customer is
responsible for the repair or replacement of the
tire if not covered by a warrantable failure.
Jump Start:A battery jump start is covered at no
charge if the vehicle does not start.
Trip Routing Service (Canada only):Upon
request, Roadside Assistance will send you detailed,
computer personalized maps, highlighting your
choice of either the most direct route or the most
scenic route to your destination, anywhere in North
America, along with helpful travel information
pertaining to your trip.
Please allow three weeks before your planned
departure date. Trip routing requests will be limited to
six per calendar year.
Trip Interruption Benets and Assistance
(Canada only):In the event of a warranty
related vehicle disablement, while en route
and over 250 kilometres from the original
point of departure, you may qualify for trip
interruption expense assistance.This assistance covers reasonable reimbursement of
up to a maximum of $500 (Canadian) for (A) meals
(maximum of $50/day), (B) lodging (maximum of
$100/night) and (C) alternate ground transportation
(maximum of $40/day). This benet is to assist you
with some of the unplanned expense you may incur
while waiting for your vehicle to be repaired.
Pre-authorization, original detailed receipts and a
copy of the repair order are required.
Once authorization has been given, your advisor will
help you make any necessary arrangements and
explain how to claim for trip interruption expense
assistance.
Alternative Service (Canada only):There may be
times, when Roadside Assistance cannot provide
timely assistance. Your advisor may authorize you to
secure local emergency road service, and you will be
reimbursed up to $100 upon submission of the
original receipt to Roadside Assistance.
In many instances, mechanical failures may be covered.
However, any cost for parts and labor for non-warranty
repairs are the responsibility of the driver.
Pontiac and General Motors of Canada Limited reserve
the right to limit services or reimbursement to an owner
or driver when, in their sole discretion, the claims become
excessive in frequency or type of occurrence.
7-8