Wednesday, August 25, 2010

My Pontiac Solstice Appearance Care

My Pontiac Solstice Appearance Care

Pontiac Solstice Interior Cleaning
my Pontiac Solstice’s interior will continue to look its best if it is cleaned often.
Although not always visible, dust and dirt can accumulate on my Pontiac Solstice upholstery. Dirt can damage carpet, fabric, leather, and plastic surfaces. Regular vacuuming is recommended to remove particles from the Pontiac Solstice upholstery. It is important to keep my upholstery from becoming and remaining heavily soiled. Soils should be removed as quickly as possible. my Pontiac Solstice’s interior may experience extremes of heat that could cause stains to set rapidly. Lighter colored interiors may require more frequent cleaning. Use care because newspapers and garments that transfer color to my home furnishings may also transfer color to my Pontiac Solstice’s interior.

When cleaning my Pontiac Solstice’sinterior,
only use cleaners specifically designed for the surfaces being cleaned. Permanent
damage may result from using cleaners on surfaces for which they were not intended. Use glass cleaner only on glass. Remove any accidental over-spray from other surfaces immediately. To prevent over-spray, apply cleaner directly to the cleaning cloth.

Notice: If you use abrasive cleaners when cleaning glass surfaces on my Pontiac Solstice,you could scratch the glass and/or cause damage to the rear window defogger. When cleaning the glass on my Pontiac Solstice, use only a soft cloth and glass cleaner. Many cleaners contain solvents that may become concentrated in my Pontiac Solstice’s breathing space. Before using cleaners, read and adhere to all safety instructions on the label. While cleaning my Pontiac Solstice’s interior, maintain adequate ventilation by opening my Pontiac Solstice’s doors and windows. Dust may be removed from small buttons and knobs using a small brush with soft bristles. my dealer/retailer has a product for cleaning my Pontiac Solstice’s glass. You can also obtain a product from my dealer/retailer to remove odors from my Pontiac Solstice’s upholstery.

I Do not clean my Pontiac Solstice using the following cleaners or techniques:
• Never use a knife or any other sharp object to remove a soil from any interior surface.
• Never use a stiff brush. It can cause damage to my Pontiac Solstice’s interior surfaces.
• Never apply heavy pressure or rub aggressively with a cleaning cloth. Use of heavy pressure can damage the interior and does not improve the effectiveness of soil removal.
• Use only mild, neutral-pH soaps. Avoid laundry detergents or dishwashing soaps with degreasers. Using too much soap will leave a residue that leaves streaks and attracts dirt. For liquid cleaners, about 20 drops per gallon (3.78 L) of water is a good guide.
• Do not heavily saturate the upholstery while cleaning.
• Damage to my Pontiac Solstice’s interior may result from the use of many organic solvents such as naptha, alcohol, etc.

My Pontiac Solstice's Fabric/Carpet
I Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment frequently to
remove dust and loose dirt. A canister vacuum with a beater bar in
the nozzle may only be used on floor carpet and carpeted floor mats. For
soils, always try to remove them first with plain water or club soda. Before
cleaning, gently remove as much of the soil as possible using one of the
following techniques:
• For liquids: gently blot the remaining soil with a paper towel. Allow the soil to absorb into the paper towel until no more can be removed.
• For solid dry soils: remove as much as possible and then vacuum.
To clean, use the following instructions:
1. Saturate a lint-free, clean white cloth with water or club soda.
2. Wring the cloth to remove excess moisture.
3. Start on the outside edge of the soil and gently rub toward the center. Continue cleaning, using a clean area of the cloth each time it becomes soiled.
4. Continue to gently rub the soiled area until the cleaning cloth remains clean.
5. If the soil is not completely removed, use a mild soap solution and repeat the cleaning process that was used with plain water. If any of the soil remains, a
commercial fabric cleaner or spot lifter may be necessary. When acommercial upholstery cleaner or spot lifter is to be used, test a small hidden area for colorfastness first.
If the locally cleaned area gives any impression that a ring formation may
result, clean the entire surface. After the cleaning process has been completed, a paper towel can be used to blot excess moisture from the fabric or carpet.

Pontiac Solstice Leather seats
A soft cloth dampened with water can be used to remove dust. If a
more thorough cleaning is necessary, a soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be used. Allow the Pontiac Solstice's leather to dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry. Never use steam to clean leather. Never use spot lifters or spot removers on leather. Many commercial leather cleaners and coatings that are sold to preserve
and protect leather may permanently change the appearance and
feel of my leather and are not recommended. Do not use silicone or wax-based products, or those containing organic solvents to clean my Pontiac Solstice’s interior because they can alter the appearance by increasing the gloss in a non-uniform manner. Never use shoe polish on leather.

Pontiac Solstice Instrument Panel, Vinyl, and Other Plastic Surfaces
A soft cloth dampened with water may be used to remove dust. If a more thorough cleaning is necessary, a clean soft cloth dampened with a mild soap solution can be used to gently remove dust and dirt. Never use spot lifters or removers on plastic surfaces. Many commercial cleaners and coatings that are sold to preserve and protect soft plastic surfaces may permanently change the appearance and feel of my interior and are not recommended. Do not use silicone or wax-based products, or those containing
organic solvents to clean my Pontiac Solstice’s interior because they can alter the appearance by increasing the gloss in a non-uniform manner.

Some commercial products may increase gloss on my instrument panel. The increase in gloss may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make
it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions.

Cleaning Exterior Pontiac Solstice's Lamps/Lenses
Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car washing soap to
clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under “Washing
my Pontiac Solstice” later in this blog.

Pontiac Solstice Finish Care
Occasional waxing or mild polishing of the Pontiac Solstice by hand may be
necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get approved cleaning products from my Pontiac Solstice's dealer/retailer. If the Pontiac Solstice has a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish, the clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are non-abrasive and made for a
basecoat/clearcoat paint finish.
Notice: Machine compounding or aggressive polishing on a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish
may damage it. Use only non-abrasive waxes and polishes that are made for a basecoat/
clearcoat paint finish on my Pontiac Solstice.

Foreign materials such as calcium chloride and other salts, ice melting agents, road oil and tar, tree sap, bird droppings, chemicals from industrial chimneys, etc., can
damage the Pontiac Solstice’s finish if they remain on painted surfaces. Wash the Pontiac Solstice as soon as possible. If necessary, use non-abrasive cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces to remove foreign matter. Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping the Pontiac Solstice garaged or covered whenever possible.

Protecting Pontiac Solstice Exterior Bright Metal Parts
Pontiac Solstice's Bright metal parts should be cleaned regularly to keep their
luster. Wash with water or use chrome polish on chrome or stainless steel trim, if necessary. Use special care with Pontiac Solstice's aluminum trim. To avoid damaging protective trim, never use auto or chrome polish, steam or caustic soap to clean
aluminum. A coating of wax, rubbed to high polish, is recommended for all bright metal parts.

Washing my Pontiac Solstice
The best way to preserve the Pontiac Solstice’s finish is to keep it clean by washing it often. Do not wash the Pontiac Solstice in direct sunlight. Use a car washing soap.

Pontiac Solstice Notice: Certain cleaners contain chemicals that can damage
the emblems or nameplates on my Pontiac Solstice. Check the cleaning
product label. If it states that it should not be used on plastic
parts, do not use it on my Pontiac Solstice or damage may occur and
it would not be covered by the warranty. Do not use cleaning agents that are
petroleum based or that contain acid or abrasives, as they can damage
the paint, metal or plastic on the Pontiac Solstice. Approved cleaning products
can be obtained from my dealer/ retailer. Follow all manufacturers’
directions regarding correct product usage, necessary safety precautions
and appropriate disposal of any Pontiac Solstice care product.

Rinse the Pontiac Solstice well, before washing and after to remove all cleaning agents completely. If they are allowed to dry on the surface, they could stain.
Dry the finish with a soft, clean chamois or an all-cotton towel to
avoid surface scratches and water spotting. High pressure car washes may
cause water to enter the Pontiac Solstice. Avoid using high pressure washes closer than 12 inches (30 cm) to the surface of the Pontiac Solstice. Use of power washers exceeding 1,200 psi (8 274) can result in damage or removal of paint and decals.

Notice: Conveyor systems on some automatic car washes could damage the Pontiac Solstice. There may not be enough clearance for the undercarriage. Check with the car wash manager before using the automatic car wash.

Pontiac Solstice Weatherstrips
Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak. Apply silicone grease with a clean cloth. During very cold, damp weather frequent application may be required.

Pontiac Solstice's Wheels and Trim — Aluminum or Chrome
The Pontiac Solstice may have either aluminum or chrome-plated wheels.
Keep the wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water.
Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean
towel. A wax may then be applied.

Notice: Pontiac Solstice Chrome wheels and other chrome trim may be damaged if you do not wash my Pontiac Solstice after driving on roads that have been sprayed with magnesium, calcium or sodium chloride. These chlorides are used on roads for conditions such as ice and dust. Always wash my Pontiac Solstice’s chrome with soap and water after exposure. Notice: If you use strong soaps,chemicals, abrasive polishes, cleaners, brushes, or cleaners that contain acid on aluminum or chrome-plated wheels, you could damage the surface of the wheel(s). The repairs would not be covered by my warranty. Use only approved cleaners on aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. The surface of these wheels is similar to the painted surface of the Pontiac Solstice. Do not use strong soaps, chemicals, abrasive polishes, abrasive cleaners, cleaners with acid, or abrasive cleaning brushes on them because you could damage the surface. Do not use chrome polish on aluminum wheels. Notice: Using chrome polish on aluminum wheels could damage
the wheels. The repairs would not be covered by my warranty. Use chrome polish on chrome wheels only. se chrome polish only on chrome-plated wheels, but avoid any painted surface of the wheel, and buff off immediately after application.

Notice: If you drive my Pontiac Solstice through an automatic car wash that has silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes, you could damage the aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. The repairs would not be covered by my Pontiac Solstice's warranty. Never drive aPontiac Solstice equipped with aluminum or chrome-plated wheels through an automatic car wash
that uses silicone carbide tire cleaning brushes. Windshield and Wiper Blades
Clean the outside of the windshield with glass cleaner. Clean the rubber blades using a lint free cloth or paper towel soaked with windshield washer fluid or a mild detergent. Wash the windshield thoroughly when cleaning the blades. Bugs, road grime, sap, and a buildup of Pontiac Solstice wash/wax treatments may cause wiper streaking. Replace thewiper blades if they are worn or damaged.

Your Pontiac Solstice's Wipers can be damaged by:
• Extreme dusty conditions
• Sand and salt
• Heat and sun
• Snow and ice, without proper removal

Your Pontiac Solstice's Tires
To clean the tires, use a stiff brush with tire cleaner.

Notice: Using petroleum-based tire dressing products on my Pontiac Solstice may damage the paint finish and/or tires. When applying a tire dressing, always wipe off any overspray from all painted surfaces on my Pontiac Solstice.

Chemical Paint Spotting
Some weather and atmospheric conditions can create a chemical fallout. Airborne pollutants can fall upon and attack painted surfaces on the Pontiac Solstice. This damage can take two forms: blotchy, ring-shaped discolorations, and small, irregular dark spots etched into the paint surface. Although no defect in the paint job causes this, we will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new Pontiac Solstices damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or12,000 miles (20 000 km) of purchase, whichever occurs first.

My Pontiac Solstice's Underbody Maintenance
Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, corrosion and rust can develop on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan, and exhaust system even though they have corrosion protection. At least every spring, flush these materials from the underbody with plain water. Clean any areas where mud and debris can collect. Dirt packed in close areas of the frame should be loosened before being flushed. my dealer/retailer or an underbody car washing system can do this for you.
Sheet Metal Damage
If the Pontiac Solstice is damaged and requires sheet metal repair or replacement, make sure the body repair shop applies anti-corrosion material to parts repaired or replaced to restore corrosion protection. Original manufacturer replacement parts will provide the corrosion protection while maintaining the Pontiac Solstice warranty.
Finish Damage
Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the finish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into major repair expense. Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up materials available from my Pontiac Solstice's dealer/retailer. Larger areas of finish damage can be corrected in my Pontiac Solstice's body and paint shop.

Pontiac Solstice

Friday, August 6, 2010

My Pontiac Solstice

My Pontiac Solstice Maintenance

Pontiac Solstice Engine Oil Level Check
Notice: It is important to check the Pontiac Solstice Engine oil
regularly and keep it at the proper level. Failure to
keep the Pontiac Solstice Engine oil at the proper level can cause
damage to the Pontiac Solstice Engine not covered by the Pontiac Solstice
warranty.

Check the Pontiac Solstice Engine oil level and add the proper oil if necessary.
Check the Pontiac Solstice Engine coolant level and add DEX-COOL® coolant mixture if necessary

Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check
Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield
washer fluid reservoir and add the proper fluid if necessary.

Tire Inspection and Inflation Check
Inspect the Pontiac Solstice’s tires for wear and make sure they
are inflated to the correct pressures.

Pontiac Solstice Engine Oil (2.4L L4 Pontiac Solstice Engine)
Pontiac Solstice Engine oil which meets GM Standard GM6094M and displays the American Petroleum Institute Certified for Gasoline Pontiac Solstice Engines starburst symbol. To determine the proper viscosity for your Pontiac Solstice’s Pontiac Solstice Engine

Pontiac Solstice Engine Oil (2.0L L4 Pontiac Solstice Engine)
The Pontiac Solstice Engine requires a special Pontiac Solstice Engine oil meeting GM Standard GM4718M. Oils meeting this standard can be identified with the
American Petroleum Institute (API) Certified for Gasoline Pontiac Solstice Engines
starburst symbol. However, not all synthetic API oils with the starburst
symbol will meet this GM standard. Look for and use only an oil that meets GM Standard GM4718M. For the proper viscosity,

Pontiac Solstice Engine Coolant
50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable
water and use only DEX-COOL®
Coolant.

Hydraulic Brake System
Delco® Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.

Hydraulic Clutch System
Delco® Supreme 11 Brake Fluid or
equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid.

Power Steering System
GM Power Steering Fluid
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021184, in
Canada 89021186).

Manual Pontiac Solstice Transmission
Manual Pontiac Solstice Transmission Fluid
(GM Part No. U.S. 89021806, in
Canada 89021807).

Automatic Pontiac Solstice Transmission
DEXRON®-VI Automatic
Pontiac Solstice Transmission Fluid.

Rear Axle
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic
Axle Lubricant (GM Part
No. U.S. 89021677, in
Canada 89021678) meeting
GM Specification 9986115.

Rear Axle (Limited-Slip Differential)
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Axle
Lubricant (GM Part No.
U.S. 89021677, in
Canada 89021678) meeting GM
Specification 9986115. With a
complete drain and refill add
4 ounces (118 ml) of Limited-Slip
Axle Lubricant Additive
(GM Part No. U.S. 1052358, in
Canada 992694)

Pontiac Solstice Maintenance Replacement Parts

Pontiac Solstice Engine Air Cleaner/Filter 2.0L L4 Pontiac Solstice Engine 15925738 A3084C, 2.4L L4 Pontiac Solstice Engine 15287103 A3076C

Pontiac Solstice Engine Oil Filter 12605566 PF457G

Spark Plugs 2.0L L4 Pontiac Solstice Engine 12620540 41-108 2.4L L4 Pontiac Solstice Engine 12598004 41-103

Spark Plug Gap
2.0L L4 X VIN .035 in (0.90 mm)
2.4L L4 B VIN .040 in (1.01 mm)

Wiper Blades Driver Side — 16 in (40 cm) 10344209 Passenger Side — 22 in (55 cm) 10344210


Belt routing for air conditioning (AC) shown. Dotted line
represents routing for Pontiac Solstices without AC.

My Pontiac Solstice Maintenance
Notice: Pontiac Solstice Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections,
replacement parts, and recommended fluids and
lubricants as prescribed in the manual are
necessary to keep this Pontiac Solstice in good working
condition. Any damage caused by failure to follow
scheduled Pontiac Solstice Maintenance might not be covered by the
Pontiac Solstice warranty.

Your Pontiac Solstice and the Environment
Proper Pontiac Solstice Pontiac Solstice Maintenance not only helps to keep
the Pontiac Solstice in good working condition, but also helps the
environment. All recommended Pontiac Solstice Maintenance is
important. Improper Pontiac Solstice Pontiac Solstice Maintenance can even
affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid
levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of
emissions from the Pontiac Solstice. To help protect the
environment, and to keep the Pontiac Solstice in good condition,
be sure to maintain the Pontiac Solstice properly.

Using the Pontiac Solstice Maintenance Schedule
We want to help keep this Pontiac Solstice in good working
condition. But we do not know exactly how you will drive
it. You might drive very short distances only a few
times a week. Or you might drive long distances all the
time in very hot, dusty weather. You might use the
Pontiac Solstice in making deliveries. Or you might drive
it to work, to do errands, or in many other ways.
Because of all the different ways people use their
Pontiac Solstices, Pontiac Solstice Maintenance needs vary. You might need more
frequent checks and replacements. So please read
the following and note how you drive. If you have any
questions on how to keep the Pontiac Solstice in good condition,
see your Pontiac Solstice dealer/retailer.

Performing Pontiac Solstice Maintenance work on a Pontiac Solstice can be
dangerous. In trying to do some jobs, you can be
seriously injured. Do your own Pontiac Solstice Maintenance work
only if you have the required know-how and the
proper tools and equipment for the job. If you have
any doubt, see your dealer/retailer to have a
qualified Pontiac Solstice technician do the work.

Some Pontiac Solstice Maintenance services can be complex. So,
unless you are technically qualified and have the
necessary equipment, have your dealer/retailer do
these jobs.
When you go to your Pontiac Solstice dealer/retailer for service, trained
and supported service technicians will perform the
work using genuine parts.

Scheduled Pontiac Solstice Maintenance
When the CHANGE OIL SOON message displays on
the Driver Information Center (DIC), service is required
for the Pontiac Solstice. Have the Pontiac Solstice serviced as soon as
possible within the next 600 miles (1 000 km). It is
possible that, if driving under the best conditions, the
Pontiac Solstice Engine oil life system may not indicate that Pontiac Solstice
service is necessary for over a year. However,
the Pontiac Solstice 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 technicians
who will perform this work using genuine parts and reset
the Pontiac Solstice system.
If the Pontiac Solstice Engine oil life system is ever reset accidentally,
service the Pontiac Solstice within 3,000 miles (5 000 km)
since the last service. Remember to reset the oil life
system whenever the oil is changed. for information on the Pontiac Solstice Engine
Oil Life System and resetting the system.
When the CHANGE OIL SOON message appears,
certain services, checks, and inspections are required.
Required services are described in the following for
“Pontiac Solstice Maintenance I” and “Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II.” Generally,
it is recommended that the first service be
Pontiac Solstice Maintenance I, the second service be Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II,
and then alternate Pontiac Solstice Maintenance I and Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II
thereafter. However, in some cases, Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II may
be required more often.
Pontiac Solstice Maintenance I — Use Pontiac Solstice Maintenance I if the CHANGE
OIL SOON message displays within 10 months since the
Pontiac Solstice was purchased or Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II was
performed.
Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II — Use Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II if the previous
service performed was Pontiac Solstice Maintenance I. Always use
Pontiac Solstice Maintenance II whenever the CHANGE OIL SOON
message displays 10 months or more since thelast service or if the message has not come on at all forone year.

Pontiac Solstice Maintenance Footnotes
(a) Visually inspect brake lines and hoses for proper
hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect
disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface
condition. Inspect drum brake linings/shoes for wear or
cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums,
wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc.
(b) Visually inspect front and rear suspension and
steering system for damaged, loose, or missing parts or
signs of wear. Inspect power steering lines and hoses
for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc.
(c) Visually inspect hoses and have them replaced if
they are cracked, swollen, or deteriorated. Inspect
all pipes, fittings, and clamps; replace with genuine parts
as needed. To help ensure proper operation, a
pressure test of the cooling system and pressure cap
and cleaning the outside of the radiator and air
conditioning condenser is recommended at least
once a year.
(d) Inspect wiper blades for wear, cracking, or
contamination. Clean the windshield and wiper blades, if
contaminated. Replace wiper blades that are worn or
damaged.
(e) Make sure the safety belt reminder light and safety
belt assemblies are working properly. Look for any
other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you
see anything that might keep a safety belt system
from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or
frayed safety belts replaced.
(f) Lubricate all key lock cylinders. Lubricate all hinges
and latches, including those for the body doors,
hood, secondary latch, pivots, spring anchor, release
pawl, rear compartment, glove box door, and console
door. More frequent lubrication may be required
when exposed to a corrosive environment. Applying
silicone grease on weatherstrips with a clean cloth will
make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or
squeak.
(g) Visually inspect belt for fraying, excessive cracks, or
obvious damage. Replace belt if necessary.
(h) If driving regularly under dusty conditions, inspect
the filter at each Pontiac Solstice Engine oil change.
(i) Drain, flush, and refill cooling system. This service
can be complex; you should have your dealer/retailer
perform this service. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator,
condenser, pressure cap, and filler neck. Pressure test
the cooling system and pressure cap.
(j) A fluid loss in any Pontiac Solstice system could indicate a
problem. Have the system inspected and repaired and
the fluid level checked. Add fluid if needed.
(k) Change automatic Pontiac Solstice Transmission fluid and filter if the
Pontiac Solstice is mainly driven under one or more of these
conditions:
− In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature
regularly reaches 90°F (32°C) or higher.
− In hilly or mountainous terrain.
− Uses such as found in taxi, police, or delivery
service.