2008 PONTIAC TORRENT brake light

See your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key®III+ to get a new key blank that is cut
exactly as the ignition key that operates the system.
To program the new additional key:
1. Verify that the new key has a
1stamped on it.
2. Insert the original, already programmed, key in the
ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not
start, see your dealer/retailer for service.
3. After the engine has started, turn the key to
LOCK/OFF, and remove the key.
4. Insert the new key to be programmed and turn it to
the ON/RUN position within ve seconds of
removing the original key.
The security light will turn off once the key has
been programmed.
5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if additional keys are to
be programmed.
If you lose or damage your PASS-Key
®III+ key, see
your dealer/retailer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to have a new key made.
Do not leave the key or device that disarms or
deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle.
Starting and Operating Your
Vehicle
New Vehicle Break-In
Notice:Your vehicle does not need an elaborate
break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if
you follow these guidelines:
Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast or
slow, for the rst 500 miles (805 km). Do not
make full-throttle starts. Avoid downshifting to
brake or slow the vehicle.
Avoid making hard stops for the rst 200 miles
(322 km) or so. During this time the new brake
linings are not yet broken in. Hard stops
with new linings can mean premature wear and
earlier replacement. Follow this breaking-in
guideline every time you get new brake linings.
Do not tow a trailer during break-in. SeeTowing
a Trailer on page 4-32for the trailer towing
capabilities of your vehicle and more
information.
Following break-in, engine speed and load can be
gradually increased.
2-20

Ignition Positions
With the key in the ignition
switch, you can turn it to
four different positions.
A warning tone will sound
if you open the driver’s
door when the key has not
been removed from the
ignition.
In order to shift out of PARK (P), ignition must be in the
ON/RUN or ACC/ACCESSORY and the regular brake
pedal must be applied.
Notice:Using a tool to force the key from the
ignition switch could cause damage or break the
key. Use the correct key and turn the key only with
your hand. Make sure the key is in all the way. If
none of this works, then your vehicle needs service.
9(LOCK/OFF):You will only be able to remove your
key when the ignition is turned to LOCK/OFF.
The ignition switch cannot be turned to LOCK/OFF
unless the shift lever is in PARK (P).
ACC (ACC/ACCESSORY):This position operates
some of your electrical accessories.
R(ON/RUN):This is the position the switch returns to
after you start your engine and release the switch.
The switch stays in the ON/RUN position when
the engine is running. But even when the engine is not
running, you can use ON/RUN to operate your
electrical accessories and to display some warning and
indicator lights.
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 your 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.
2-21

DRIVE (D):This position is for normal driving with the
automatic transmission. It provides the best fuel
economy for your vehicle. If you need more power for
passing, and you are:
Going less than about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your
accelerator pedal about halfway down.
Going about 35 mph (55 km/h), push your
accelerator all the way down.
Downshifting the transmission in slippery road conditions
could result in skidding, see “Skidding” underLoss of
Control on page 4-12.
INTERMEDIATE (I):This position is also used for
normal driving. However, it reduces vehicle speed without
using your brakes for slight downgrades where the
vehicle would otherwise accelerate due to steepness of
grade. If constant upshifting or downshifting occurs while
driving up steep hills, this position can be used to prevent
repetitive types of shifts. You might choose
INTERMEDIATE (I) instead of DRIVE (D) when driving
on hilly, winding roads and when towing a trailer, so that
there is less shifting between gears.
LOW (L):This position reduces vehicle speed more
than INTERMEDIATE (I) without actually using
your brakes. You can use it on very steep hills, or in
deep snow or mud. If the shift lever is put in LOW (L),
the transmission will not shift into LOW (L) until the
vehicle is going slowly enough.Notice:Spinning the tires or holding the vehicle in
one place on a hill using only the accelerator
pedal may damage the transmission. The repair will
not be covered by your warranty. If you are stuck,
do not spin the tires. When stopping on a hill,
use the brakes to hold the vehicle in place.Transmission Overheating
If the transmission uid temperature rises above
284°F (140°C) or rises rapidly, the Engine Coolant
Temperature Warning Light will ash. SeeEngine
Coolant Temperature Warning Light on page 3-35for
more information. When the transmission overheats
it will go into a protection mode and will default shift into
fth gear if in the DRIVE (D) position, or second gear
if in the LOW (L) position. Continue driving the vehicle in
either position depending on the required vehicle
speed and load. Once the uid temperature lowers to
the normal temperature range, the transmission will
return to the normal shift patterns. Towing or driving on
long hills can cause the transmission uid temperature
to be higher than normal. If the transmission uid
temperature will not cool, you may need to pull over and
check the transmission uid level. You should also
check the engine coolant temperature. If it is hot, see
Engine Overheating on page 5-25.
2-27

SECOND (2) and THIRD (3) Gear Start
Feature
When accelerating your vehicle from a stop in snowy
and icy conditions, you may want to select SECOND (2)
and THIRD (3) gear. A higher gear, and light application
of the gas pedal, may allow you to gain more traction
on slippery surfaces.
With the Manual Shift Mode, the vehicle can accelerate
from a stop in SECOND (2) or THIRD (3).
1. Move the shift lever from DRIVE (D) into the
manual gate.
2. With the vehicle stopped, move the shift lever
forward to select SECOND (2) or THIRD (3).
The vehicle will start from a stop position in
SECOND (2) or THIRD (3).
3. Once the vehicle is moving select the desired drive
gear or move the shift lever to the DRIVE (D)
position.
Parking Brake
The parking brake lever is located to the right of the
driver’s seat.
To set the parking brake, hold the brake pedal down
and pull up on the parking brake lever. If the ignition is
on, the brake system warning light will come on.
2-32

To release the parking brake, hold the brake pedal
down. Pull the parking brake lever up until you can press
the release button. Hold the release button in as you
move the brake lever all the way down.
Make sure to release the parking brake before driving
the vehicle.
If the parking brake is applied and the vehicle is moving
at least 4 mph (6 km/h), a chime will activate to
remind you to release the parking brake.
Notice:Driving with the parking brake on can
overheat the brake system and cause premature
wear or damage to brake system parts. Make sure
that the parking brake is fully released and the brake
warning light is off before driving.Shifting Into PARK (P)
{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle
if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with
the parking brake rmly set. Your vehicle can
roll. If you have left the engine running, the
vehicle can move suddenly. You or others
could be injured. To be sure your vehicle will
not move, even when you are on fairly level
ground, use the steps that follow. If you are
pulling a trailer, seeTowing a Trailer on
page 4-32.
1. Hold the brake pedal down with your foot and set
the parking brake. SeeParking Brake on page 2-32
for more information.
2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) by pressing the
button on the shift lever and pushing the lever all
the way toward the front of the vehicle.
3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK/OFF.
4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can
leave your vehicle with the key, your vehicle is in
PARK (P).
2-33

{CAUTION:
It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle
if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with
the parking brake rmly set. Your vehicle can
roll. Do not leave your vehicle when the engine
is running unless you have to. If you have left
the engine running, the vehicle can move
suddenly. You or others could be injured. To
be sure your vehicle will not move, even when
you are on fairly level ground, always set the
parking brake and move the shift lever to
PARK (P).
Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle will not
move. SeeShifting Into PARK (P) on page 2-33.
If you are parking on a hill and if you are pulling a trailer,
also seeTowing a Trailer on page 4-32.
Mirrors
Manual Rearview Mirror
When you are sitting in a comfortable driving position,
adjust the mirror so you can see clearly behind your
vehicle. Hold the mirror in the center to move it up or
down and side to side. The day/night adjustment allows
you to adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the lamps
behind you. Push the tab forward for daytime use
and pull it for nighttime use.
Manual Rearview Mirror with
OnStar
®
To adjust the angle of the mirror, move the mirror to a
position that allows you see to out of the back window.
To adjust the height of the mirror, adjust the arm
that connects the mirror to the windshield.
To reduce glare from lights behind you, move the lever
toward you to the night position.
There are also OnStar
®buttons located at the bottom of
the mirror face. See your dealer for more information
on the system and how to subscribe to OnStar
®.
SeeOnStar®System on page 2-39for more information
about the services OnStar®provides.
2-37

Instrument Panel Overview...............................3-4
Hazard Warning Flashers................................3-6
Other Warning Devices...................................3-6
Horn.............................................................3-6
Tilt Wheel.....................................................3-7
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever.........................3-7
Turn and Lane-Change Signals........................3-8
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer..................3-8
Flash-to-Pass.................................................3-9
Windshield Wipers..........................................3-9
Windshield Washer.......................................3-10
Rear Window Wiper/Washer...........................3-11
Cruise Control..............................................3-11
Headlamps..................................................3-14
Headlamps on Reminder................................3-14
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL).......................3-15
Automatic Headlamp System..........................3-15
Fog Lamps..................................................3-16
Instrument Panel Brightness...........................3-16
Dome Lamp.................................................3-17
Entry Lighting...............................................3-17
Map Lamps.................................................3-17
Cargo Lamp.................................................3-18
Electric Power Management...........................3-18
Battery Run-Down Protection..........................3-19
Accessory Power Outlet(s).............................3-19
Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter......................3-20Climate Controls............................................3-20
Climate Control System.................................3-20
Outlet Adjustment.........................................3-24
Passenger Compartment Air Filter...................3-24
Warning Lights, Gages, and Indicators............3-26
Instrument Panel Cluster................................3-27
Speedometer and Odometer...........................3-28
Trip Odometer..............................................3-28
Tachometer.................................................3-28
Safety Belt Reminders...................................3-28
Airbag Readiness Light..................................3-29
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator...................3-30
Charging System Light..................................3-32
Brake System Warning Light..........................3-33
Antilock Brake System Warning Light...............3-34
Traction Control System (TCS)
Warning Light...........................................3-34
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light......3-35
Engine Coolant Temperature Gage..................3-35
Tire Pressure Light.......................................3-36
Malfunction Indicator Lamp.............................3-36
Oil Pressure Light.........................................3-39
Change Engine Oil Light................................3-40
Security Light...............................................3-40
Fog Lamp Light............................................3-40
Cruise Control Light......................................3-41
Section 3 Instrument Panel
3-1

Setting Cruise Control
{CAUTION:
If you leave your cruise control on when you
are not using cruise, you might hit a button
and go into cruise when you do not want to.
You could be startled and even lose control.
Keep the cruise control switch off until you
want to use cruise control.
The cruise control buttons
are located on the steering
wheel.
I(On/Off):PressIto turn the cruise control
system on and off.
RES+ (Resume):Press RES+ to resume a set speed
and to accelerate the speed.
SET−(Set):Press SET– to set a speed and to
decrease the speed.
[CANCEL:Press[to cancel cruise control.
To set a speed do the following:
1. Press
Ito turn cruise control on. The indicator
light on the button comes on.
2. Get up to the desired speed.
3. Press the SET−and release it. The cruise symbol
displays in the instrument panel cluster to show the
system is engaged.
4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal.
When the brakes are applied, the cruise control
shuts off.
If the vehicle is in cruise control and the Traction
Control System (TCS) begins to limit wheel spin, the
cruise control automatically disengages. SeeTraction
Control System (TCS) on page 4-6. When road
conditions allow, the cruise control can be used again.
3-12