2009 Getting to Know Your Solstice - Cherod.com

DRIVER INFORMATIONInstrument Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . .2Instrument Panel Cluster . . . . . . .3Driver Information Center . . . . . . .4SAFETY & SECURITYRemote Keyless Entry . . . . . . . . .6Door Lock/Unlock without RKE . .6Automatic Door Locks . . . . . . . . .7Passenger Airbag StatusIndicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7OnStar ® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Emergency Trunk Release . . . . . .7COMFORTSeat Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Tilt Steering Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . .8Climate Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8ENTERTAINMENTRadio and CD Operation . . . . . . .9XM ® Radio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12Multiple-Disc CD Player . . . . . . .12Audio Steering Wheel Controls .12Bluetooth ® System . . . . . . . . . . .13CONVENIENCESpeed-Sensitive Wipers . . . . . . .13Exterior Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Map Pockets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15PERFORMANCE & MAINTENANCEStabiliTrak ® – Stability ControlSystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Manual TransmissionOperating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Automatic TransmissionOperating Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16Operating the Convertible Top . .16Car Washing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Tire Pressure Monitor . . . . . . . . .18Tire Inflator Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19Towing and Dinghy Towing . . . .19Premium Unleaded Gasoline . . .19Resetting the Oil Life System . .19OWNER INFORMATIONRoadside Assistance . . . . . . . . .20My GMLink . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Congratulations on your purchase of a Pontiac Solstice. Please read this information and your Owner Manualto ensure an outstanding ownership experience. Note that your vehicle may not include all the featuresdescribed in this booklet. Keep this booklet with your Owner Manual for easy reference.

2Getting to Know Your SolsticeDRIVER INFORMATIONInstrument PanelA B C D E F G H I J K B B AL M N O P Q R S T U V WThe main features of the instrumentpanel include:A. Side Window Air OutletsB. Air OutletsC. Turn Signal/Multifunction LeverD. Cruise Control Buttons (if equipped)E. Instrument ClusterF. Audio Steering Wheel Controls(if equipped)G. Instrument Panel Brightness ControlH. Passenger Airbag Status IndicatorI. Hazard Warning Flashers ButtonJ. Fog Lamp Button (if equipped)K. StabiliTrak ButtonSee Section 3 of your Owner Manual.L. Hood Release LeverM. Driver Information Center Controls(if equipped)N. HornO. Windshield Wiper/Washer ControlsP. Climate ControlsQ. Accessory Power OutletR. Audio SystemS. Gearshift LeverT. Parking Brake LeverU. CupholderV. Trunk Release Button (in Glove Box)W. Glove Box

3Instrument Panel ClusterA B C D E F G H I J K LYour vehicle’s instrument panel isequipped with this cluster or one verysimilar to it. The instrument panel clusterincludes these key features:A. SpeedometerB. Antilock Brake System Warning LightC. Trunk Ajar LightD. Low Fuel Warning LightE. Fuel GaugeF. Malfunction Indicator Lamp(Check Engine Light)G. Airbag Readiness LightH. StabiliTrak Warning LightMI. Safety Belt Reminder LightJ. Low Coolant Warning LightK. Security LightL. Odometer/Driver Information CenterM. TachometerNote: The instrument panel cluster isdesigned to let you know about manyimportant aspects of your vehicle’soperation. It is important to read yourOwner Manual and become familiar withthe information being relayed to youby the lights, gauges and indicators,as well as what action can be taken toensure safety and to prevent damage.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.

4Getting to Know Your SolsticeDriver Information Center(if equipped)Your vehicle’s Driver Information Center(DIC) provides vehicle information,vehicle warning messages and vehiclefeature personalization. The DIC messageswill be shown on your instrumentpanel cluster display.BATo operate the DIC, the ignition switchmust be on. The DIC is controlledthrough the following two buttons locatedon the left side of the steering wheel:(Information): Press this button (A)to scroll through the vehicle informationmode displays.(Reset): Press this button (B) toreset some information mode options,select a personalization setting oracknowledge a warning message.Press both buttons for several secondsand release to enter the personalizationmenu.Vehicle InformationPress the button to scroll throughthe following vehicle information:• Odometer• Trip A or Trip B• Fuel Range (until empty)• MPG AVG (average fuel economy)• MPG INST (instantaneous fueleconomy)• AV Speed (average vehicle speed)• Oil Life (remaining useful oil life)• Coolant (engine coolant temperature)• Tire Pressure (front and rear tirepressures)• Boost (if equipped) (indicates theamount of boost the turbochargedengine is receiving)Press and hold the button to resetthe information while it is displayed.Vehicle Feature PersonalizationA variety of your vehicle’s features canbe personalized to your preference. Topersonalize features:1. The vehicle must be stopped toaccess the personalization menu.Press and hold both the andbuttons for several seconds andrelease to enter the personalizationmenu.2. Press the button to scrollthrough the available personalizationfeatures.

53. Press the button to togglebetween the available settings foreach feature.4. Press the button to record yourselection and move to the next feature.Personalization features include:• OIL LIFE RESET• UNITS• LOCK HORN (Horn chirp duringRemote Keyless Entry locking)• UNLOCK HORN (Horn chirp duringRemote Keyless Entry unlocking)• LIGHT FLASH (Exterior light flashduring Remote Keyless Entry lockingor unlocking)• DELAY LOCK (Delays locking thevehicle for five seconds after the lastdoor is closed)• AUTO UNLK (Automatically unlocksthe vehicle doors)• UNLK (Determines when AutoUnlock will occur; automatic transmissiononly)• EXT LIGHTS (Exterior perimeterlighting during Remote Keyless Entryunlock)• LANGUAGEWarnings and MessagesIf a problem is sensed in one of yourvehicle’s systems, a warning or messagewill appear in the DIC display (seeyour Owner Manual for a complete list ofpossible warnings and messages).After a warning or message appears,press either the or button toclear the display screen for further use.Acknowledging the message only clearsthe display; it does not resolve theproblem.If your vehicle is equipped with OnStarand your Check Engine light or anyother warning message appears, youcan press the OnStar button and speakto an OnStar Advisor. In many vehicles,OnStar Advisors can access certaindiagnostic information and can tell youhow serious the problem is and whatyou should do about it.Note: Your vehicle’s warnings andmessages provide critical informationthat can prevent damage to your vehicle.Review your Owner Manual tobecome familiar with the informationdisplayed and the action required.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.

6Getting to Know Your SolsticeSAFETY & SECURITYRemote Keyless Entry(if equipped)The RemoteKeyless Entry(RKE) transmitterincludesthe followingfunctions:(Lock):Press this buttonwhen both doorsare closed to immediately lock them.The interior lamps will also turn off. Ifenabled through the Driver InformationCenter (DIC), the parking lamps willflash and/or the horn will chirp to indicatelocking has occurred.If the Lock button is pressed while anydoor is open and the Delayed Lock featureis enabled, the doors will not lock.Instead, a chime will sound. After bothdoors are closed, the doors will lock. Tocancel this delay, press the Lock buttona second time within five seconds.(Unlock): Press this button to unlockthe driver’s door. If the button is pressedagain within five seconds, all remainingdoors will unlock. The interior lamps willilluminate and remain on for 20 secondsor until the ignition is turned on. Ifenabled through the DIC, the parkinglamps will flash and the horn will chirp toindicate unlocking has occurred.(Trunk/Buttress Release): Pressthis button to release the trunk lid andconvertible top buttress. You can openthe trunk with the transmitter when thevehicle is stationary.The trunk and buttress may also beunlatched using the Trunk Releasebutton located in the glove box.(Vehicle Locator/Panic Alarm):The vehicle must be turned off to usethis feature.Press and hold the button forapproximately one second to locate yourvehicle. The horn will sound three timesand the parking lamps will flash threetimes.To sound the panic alarm, press andhold the button for three seconds. Thehorn will sound and the parking lampswill flash for 30 seconds. Press the buttonagain or turn the ignition key to anyposition to cancel the panic alarm.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.Door Lock and Unlock Functionswithout the RKE TransmitterYour vehicle’s doors can also be locked/unlocked using the key.• To lock either door from the outside,turn the key clockwise.• To unlock either door from the outside,turn the key counterclockwise.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.

7Automatic Door Locks(if equipped)For your safety, all power door locks willautomatically lock when the shift lever ismoved out of Park with an automatictransmission, or when the vehicle speedis greater than 5 mph (8 km/h) with amanual transmission.This feature cannot be disabled; however,if your vehicle has a Driver InformationCenter and an automatic transmission,you can personalize the unlock features.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.Passenger Airbag StatusIndicatorYour vehicle is equipped with aPassenger Sensing System located inthe passenger seat for the passenger’sfront airbag, and a passenger airbagstatus indicator located on the instrumentpanel center stack.See Sections 1 and 3 of your Owner Manual.OnStar ® (if equipped)Your vehicle may feature the OnStarSafe & Sound Plan or the uplevel OnStarDirections & Connections Plan, with oneyear of OnStar service from the date youpurchased your new vehicle. OnStaroffers a variety of capabilities, suchas Remote Door Unlock, AutomaticNotification of Airbag Deployment, andHands-Free Calling. In addition, mostvehicles can get driving directions usingTurn-by-Turn Navigation. Press theOnStar button to ask an OnStar Advisorabout the service plan you have or toupgrade your plan.Note: Because the interior of a convertiblemay not be as quiet as a fixed roofvehicle, please note the following guidelineswhen using the OnStar speechrecognition function and when speakingto an OnStar Advisor:• Reduce background noise by raisingthe convertible top or windows, or byslowing down or stopping the vehicle.• Speak clearly and naturally, and louderif necessary, when using hands-freecalling.• Say each digit separately and continuouslywhen reciting phone numbers.For more information, refer toyour OnStar Owner’s Guide, call1-888-4-ONSTAR (1-888-466-7827),or visit onstar.com.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.Emergency Trunk ReleaseThe trunklid can beopenedfrom insidethe trunkby pullingon the emergency trunk release handlelocated on the driver’s side of the trunk.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.

8Getting to Know Your SolsticeCOMFORTSeat AdjustmentsForward or Rearward AdjusterTo move the seats forward or rearward,lift and hold the lever under the front ofeach seat and manually slide the seat;then release the lever. Try to move theseat to ensure it is locked in place.ReclinerTo recline thefront seats,open the doorand rotate theknob on theoutboard sideof the seatuntil the seatbackis in thedesired position.Seatback LatchPull up thelatch on theoutboardside ofthe seatnear thetop of theseatbackto foldthe seatforward. This provides access to theseatback map pocket.Driver Seat Height Adjuster(if equipped)The power driver seat height adjusterswitch is located on the outboard side ofthe driver’s seat. Adjust the seat positionbefore adjusting seat height. To raise orlower the seat, hold the switch up ordown.See Section 1 of your Owner Manual.Tilt Steering WheelTo adjust the steering wheel position:1. Pull down the lever located on the leftside of the steering column.2. Adjust the wheel to a comfortableposition. The wheel can be moved upor down.3. Push the lever all the way up to lockthe wheel in place.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.Climate ControlsABCTemperature ControlTurn the temperature control knob (A) toraise or lower the temperature setting.(Air Conditioning) (if equipped):Press the temperature control knob toturn the air conditioning system on oroff. The indicator light will flash threetimes and the air conditioning systemwill not function if the fan is turned off.

9Fan SpeedTurn the fan speed control knob (B) toincrease or decrease fan speed.(Off): This position turns off thesystem.(Recirculation): Press the fanspeed control knob to turn the recirculationmode on or off. This mode keepsoutside air from entering the vehicle.Airflow ModesTurn the airflow control knob (C) to oneof the following five modes to changethe direction of the airflow:(Vent): This mode directs air to theinstrument panel outlets.(Bi-Level): This mode directs air tothe instrument panel outlets and flooroutlets.(Floor): This mode directs most ofthe air to the floor outlets and some air tothe side window outlets and windshield.(Defog): This mode directs air to thewindshield, side window outlets andfloor outlets.(Defrost): This mode directs most ofthe air to the windshield and some air tothe side window outlets.(Rear Window Defogger): Pressthe airflow control knob to turn the rearwindow defogger on or off. The defoggerwill shut off automatically after a setperiod of time. The defogger will remainactive, however, as long as the vehiclespeed is greater than 50 mph (80 km/h).Note: Do not use the rear windowdefogger when the convertible top isstored.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.ENTERTAINMENTRadio and CD OperationWhile most of the features on your radiowill look familiar, the following are somethat may be new:(Power/Volume): Press this knob toturn the system on or off. Turn the knobto adjust the volume.(Information): Press this button totoggle the radio display between stationfrequency and time. If equipped, it willalso display additional text informationrelated to the current FM-RDS or XMstation, or MP3 song.(Tune): Turn this knob to select radiostations or, when a CD is playing, toselect a track or MP3 file.Press the knob to display the tonecontrol (bass/treble) or speaker control(balance/fade) setting. Press the pushbuttonunder the desired label on thedisplay. Turn the knob to adjust thesetting.FAV (Favorite): Press this button to gothrough up to six pages of any combination(AM, FM, or XM, if equipped) ofpreset favorite radio stations. On eachpage, up to six stations are available byusing the six pushbuttons below theradio display.

10Getting to Know Your SolsticeBAND: Press this button to switch toAM, FM, or XM (if equipped). Whenplaying a CD or portable audio player,press this button to switch to the radio.(Seek/Scan): Press the right or leftarrow button to go to the next or previousradio station or, when a CD is playing,to the next track or MP3 file, or tothe start of the current track or MP3 file.To enter the scan mode, press and holdeither arrow button for a few seconds (abeep will sound). Radio stations will bescanned. Press either arrow buttonagain to stop scanning.(Reverse): Press and hold thisbutton to reverse playback quickly withina track or MP3 file.(Forward): Press and hold thisbutton to advance playback quickly withina track or MP3 file.CD/AUX: Press this button to play aCD instead of the radio. Press againand the system will automatically searchfor an auxiliary input device, such as aportable audio player, connected to theauxiliary input located on the lower-rightside of the radio.EQ (Equalization): Press this button toselect preset equalization settings.CAT (Category) (if equipped): Pressthis button to find XM stations within adesired category.Setting Favorite StationsBefore setting your favorite stations,shift your vehicle into Park (automatictransmission) or into Neutral and set theparking brake (manual transmission).Note: Engaging in extended searchingfor specific audio stations or songs byusing buttons and knobs — or givingextended attention to entertainment tasks— can lead you to look away from theroad frequently or longer than usual.Looking away from the road for prolongedperiods may cause you to missseeing things on the road that you needto see. Avoid engaging in extendedsearching for specific items while driving.You can set up to six pages of anycombination (AM, FM, or XM,if equipped) of favorite radio stations,with up to six stations on each page.To set up the number of favorite stationpages:1. Press the MENU button to display theradio setup menu.2. Press the pushbutton located belowthe FAV 1–6 label on the radiodisplay.3. Select the desired number of favoritestation pages.4. Press the FAV button. You may nowbegin storing your favorite stations forthe chosen amount of numberedpages.To store favorite stations:1. Tune in the desired radio station.2. Press the FAV button to display thepage where the station is to bestored.3. Press and hold one of the six pushbuttonsuntil a beep sounds to storethe station.4. Repeat the steps for each pushbuttonon each page.

11Setting the Speed CompensatedVolumeWith Speed Compensated Volume(SCV), the radio automatically adjuststhe volume to compensate for roadnoise as vehicle speed changes.Press the MENU button to access theSCV settings.To set Speed Compensated Volume:1. Set the radio volume to the desiredlevel.2. Press the MENU button to display theradio setup menu.3. Press the pushbutton below the autovolume label on the radio display.4. Press the pushbutton under thedesired setting (Off, Low, Mediumor High) to select the level ofcompensation.5. The compensation will be setonce the display times out after 10seconds.Setting the TimeTo set the time:1. Turn on the radio.2. Press the (Clock) button. Or,if equipped, press the MENU buttonuntil the clock option is displayed;and then press the pushbutton locatedunder the clock option label. TheHR, MIN, MM, DD, YYYY labels willappear on the display.3. Press the pushbutton under any ofthe labels to be changed.4. Press the pushbutton again or theFWD button to increase the numbers.Press the REV button to decreasethe numbers. Rotating the (Tune)knob also will increase or decreasethe selected label.5. Press the Clock or MENU buttonagain to set the currently displayedtime and date.Portable Audio PlayerA portable audio player can be connectedto the auxiliary input jack located onthe radio. Press the CD/AUX button tobegin playing audio from the portableplayer over the vehicle speakers.MP3 Capability (if equipped)If your AM/FM stereo with CD has MP3playing capability, a CD-R or CD-RWcontaining MP3 audio files will playautomatically when inserted into the CDplayer. An MP3 label will be displayed.Radio Data System (if equipped)When you tune to a Radio Data System(RDS) station, the station name and callletters will appear on the display insteadof the frequency. RDS stations may alsoprovide the time of day, a program typefor current programming and the nameof the program being broadcast.RDS features are available for use onlyon FM stations that broadcast RDSinformation. RDS relies on receivingspecific information from these stationsand will work only when the informationis available.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.

12Getting to Know Your SolsticeXM ® Radio (if equipped)XM Radio offers more than 170channels of digital-quality sound thatgoes wherever you go — coast to coast.After a free three-month trial period,activation and service subscriptionfees apply. Service is based in thecontinental United States and Canada.For more information, visit XM onlineat www.XMradio.com or call1-800-929-2100.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.Multiple-Disc CD Player(if equipped)With the in-dash 6-Disc CD Player, notethat you cannot directly load a CD as insingle-play systems.To load a single CD:• Press and release the LOADbutton. Wait for the display prompt toload the CD.To load multiple CDs:• Press and hold the LOAD buttonfor two seconds. Follow the displayprompts to load each CD.To play a specific CD:• Press the pushbutton under the arrowlabel that corresponds to the loadedCD number on the display.Note: CDs with any affixed labels mayjam in the CD player. Label a CD usinga permanent marker. If more than oneCD is inserted into the slot at a time,or if scratched or damaged CDs areplayed, the CD player could be damaged.When using the CD player, useonly CDs in good condition withoutlabels; load one CD at a time; and keepthe CD player and the loading slot freeof foreign materials, liquids or debris.To eject a CD:• To eject the CD that is currentlyplaying, press the EJECTbutton once.• To eject all CDs, press and hold theEJECT button for two seconds.If a CD is not removed after severalseconds, it will be pulled back into theplayer automatically.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.Audio Steering Wheel Controls(if equipped)The followingaudio controlsarelocated onthe steeringwheel:+ –(Volume):Press theplus or minus button to increase ordecrease the volume.

13(Next/Previous/End): Pressthe up or down arrow to go to the nextor previous preset radio station or, whena CD is playing, to the next or previoustrack.Press and hold the up or down arrow forone second to advance to the next orprevious radio station in the selectedband or, when a CD is playing, to continuemoving to the next or previous trackon the CD.Press the (End) button to end orreject an OnStar or Bluetooth call.(Mute/Voice Recognition): Pressthis button to silence the system. Pressit again to turn on the sound.Press and hold the button for twoseconds to interact with the OnStar orBluetooth system.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.Bluetooth ® SystemThe in-vehicle Bluetooth system allowsusers with a Bluetooth-enabled cellphone to make and receive hands-freephone calls using the vehicle’s audiosystem, microphone and controls. TheBluetooth-enabled cell phone must bepaired with the in-vehicle Bluetooth systembefore it can be used in the vehicle.Not all phones will support all functions.Visit www.pontiac.com/bluetoothfor more information.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.CONVENIENCESpeed-Sensitive WipersThe speed-sensitive wipers lever islocated to the right of the steeringcolumn. The headlamps and parkinglamps will turn on if the wipers are on formore than 15 seconds. The lever can bemoved to each of the following positions:(Mist): Move the lever down to thisposition to turn the wipers on for a singlewipe. Hold the lever at this position foradditional wipes.(Off): This position turns off thewindshield wipers.(Intermittent): Move the lever up tothis position to have the wipers adjustwith vehicle speed. Wiper frequencywill increase as you drive faster anddecrease as you slow down. Rotate thespeed-sensitive adjustment band on thelever to increase or decrease the delaybetween wipes.(Low): Move the lever up to thisposition for steady, low-speed wipes.(High): Move the lever up to thisposition for rapid, high-speed wipes.(Windshield Washer): Push thebutton on the end of the wipers lever tospray washer fluid on the windshield.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.

14Getting to Know Your SolsticeExterior LampsYour Solstice is equipped with an AutomaticHeadlamp System, which turnson the Daytime Running Lamps duringdaytime and the headlamps and otherexterior lamps at night or when necessary.The headlamps and parking lampsalso will turn on if the wipers are on formore than 15 seconds.Exterior Lamp Control SwitchThe exterior lamps can be operatedmanually using the control switch locatedon the lever to the left of the steeringcolumn. The switch can be rotated toeach of the following positions:(Headlamps): This position turnson the headlamps, parking lamps andtaillamps.(Parking Lamps): This positionturns on the parking lamps and taillampsonly.AUTO (Automatic Lamp Control): Thisposition automatically turns on DaytimeRunning Lamps in the daytime, andheadlamps, parking lamps and taillampsat night or when necessary.(Off/On): When operating in theAUTO position, a momentary turn of thelamp control switch to the positionwill turn off the Automatic HeadlampSystem.To activate the Automatic HeadlampSystem, turn the switch to the positionagain. The Automatic HeadlampSystem is always turned on when thevehicle is started.The Daytime Running Lamps will turn offwhen the lamp control switch is turnedto the position if the vehicle is inPark or vehicle speed is less than 5 mph(8 km/h) after the vehicle is started.(Fog Lamps):Press this buttonon the center ofthe instrumentpanel to turn thefog lamps onor off.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.Cruise Control (if equipped)The following cruise control buttons arelocated on the steering wheel:(On/Off): Press this button to turnthe cruise control system on or off.SET – (Set): Press this button to seta speed, or to decrease the set speedif the system is active. When the cruisecontrol speed is set, the DriverInformation Center will display theCruise Engaged message.

15RES + (Resume): Press this button toresume a set speed, or to increase theset speed if the system is active.See Section 3 of your Owner Manual.Map PocketsMap pockets are located on the frontseat cushions as well as the seatbacksof both seats. Lift the latch near the topof the seatback to release the seat andfold it forward.There also is a netted storage areabehind the driver’s seat.See Section 1 of your Owner Manual.PERFORMANCE & MAINTENANCEStabiliTrak ® – Stability ControlSystem (if equipped)To limit wheelspin and help maintaindirectional control, you should alwaysleave the system on. If your vehiclebecomes stuck and rocking the vehicleis required, the system should beturned off.To turn off thetraction controlpart of the system,press the(StabiliTrak)button locatedon the center ofthe instrument panel.To turn off both the traction control andstability enhancement systems, pressand hold the button for five seconds.When either system is off, theStabiliTrak light on the instrument panelcluster will illuminate. Press the buttonagain to turn the system back on.Competitive Driving ModeThe Competitive Driving Mode is aperformance handling mode designed tobe used only on a closed driving course.While operating in this mode, tractioncontrol is turned off and the amount ofintervention by the StabiliTrak system isreduced.To activate the Competitive DrivingMode, press the button twice withinfive seconds. Press the button again toreturn to normal StabiliTrak operation.See Section 4 of your Owner Manual.StabiliTrak is an advanced computercontrolledvehicle stability and tractionenhancement system that assists withdirectional control of the vehicle in difficultdriving conditions. It turns on everytime you start your vehicle.

16Getting to Know Your SolsticeManual Transmission OperatingTips (if equipped)Starting the EngineTo start the engine, fully depress theclutch pedal before turning the key;otherwise, the engine will not start. Theshift lever also should be in Neutral andthe parking brake should be engaged.Reverse OperationWhen shifting into Reverse, bring yourvehicle to a complete stop. Trying toengage Reverse with the vehicle movingcould damage the transmission. If youfind it difficult to shift into Reverse,return the shift lever to Neutral andrelease the clutch pedal; then depressthe clutch pedal again and shift intoReverse.Parking the VehicleWhen parking your vehicle, shift themanual transmission into 1st or Reverseand set the parking brake. These are thebest positions for parking a manualtransmission-equipped vehicle.Rear AxleYour Solstice may be equipped with alimited slip rear differential. This optionaldifferential is designed to provide maximumpower and performance.The Solstice driveline is designed totransmit maximum engine torque to therear wheels as efficiently as possible,which greatly enhances handling andacceleration capabilities.During an abrupt torque transfer (e.g.,1st to 2nd gearshift at low enginespeeds, or abrupt de-clutching), youmay notice an audible feedback noisethat could be interpreted as clunking orrattling. This audible feedback noise isnormal and will not compromise thereliability of the clutch, transmission ordifferential.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.Automatic TransmissionOperating Tips (if equipped)The shift indicator positions on theautomatic transmission are PRND4IL.Automatic Overdrive (D) is the bestposition for normal driving. When drivingon hilly, winding roads and engine brakingis needed, use the Intermediate (I)position. The Low (L) position can beused when driving slowly on very steephills, or in snow or mud.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.Operating the Convertible TopLowering the Convertible TopNote: Before lowering the convertibletop, make sure nothing is stored in thetrunk on either side, or on top, of thefuel tank. Do not lower or raise theconvertible top while the vehicle isin motion.To lower the convertible top:1. With an automatic transmission inPark or a manual transmission in 1stor Reverse and the parking brake set,turn off the ignition.

172. Open the trunk lid.3. Unlock the convertible top front latch,located above the inside rearviewmirror, by pulling it down and turningcounterclockwise. Leave the latchopen and rotated to prevent damagewhen storing the top.4. Pull rearward on the side edge ofthe convertible top and pull it off thewindshield frame.5. Push the convertible top down intothe trunk.6. Push evenly on the center of the topto ensure that it is fully retracted andsecurely stored.7. Close the trunk from the rear of thevehicle by pushing on the top centerof the trunk lid.Raising the Convertible Top1. With an automatic transmission inPark or a manual transmission in 1stor Reverse and the parking brake set,lower the windows and then turn offthe ignition.2. Open the trunk lid.3. Pull the convertible top forward byfirmly gripping the side edge andapplying a brisk upward and forwardmotion to get the top in the full-upposition.Note: When raising the convertible top,make certain that the orange pin oneach side of the top is seated into thehole inside the rubber molding to therear of the side window opening. Failureto seat the pins may result in wind andwater concerns.4. Pull the front edge of the convertibletop forward from the outside of thevehicle, or push the front edge of theconvertible top forward from theinside of the vehicle.5. Turn the top front latch handle clockwiseto latch the convertible top.6. Close the trunk from the rear of thevehicle by pushing on the top centerof the trunk lid.7. At the rear edge of the convertibletop, press down on the buttresses tolatch them into the top of the trunk.Note: A clear Mylar ® protective film hasbeen installed at the factory on the trunklid surface under the convertible top buttresses.This film is designed to helpprevent paint damage to the trunk lidover time. Do not remove this protectivefilm. It is intended to remain permanentlyaffixed to the trunk lid surface.

18Getting to Know Your SolsticeConvertible Top CareTo properly care for the convertible top,keep in mind these precautions:• High pressure car washes may causewater to enter the vehicle.• Do not lower the convertible top ifthere are objects in the storage area.• Dry off the top before lowering it.Storing the top when it is wet cancause stains and mildew.• Do not lower the top in cold weather.• Do not operate the rear defoggerwhen the top is stored.• Always close the top when leavingyour vehicle outdoors.See Section 2 of your Owner Manual.Car WashingThe convertible top should be cleanedoften. However, high pressure car washesmay cause water to enter the vehicle.After washing and thoroughly rinsing thevehicle, let the top dry in direct sunlight.A chamois or cloth may leave lint onthe top.Cleaning the Chrome or AluminumWheelsKeep the wheels clean using mild soapand water and a soft, clean cloth. Strongsoaps and cleaners could damage thesurface of the wheels.The chrome or aluminum wheels mayalso be damaged if the vehicle is driventhrough an automatic car wash that hassilicone carbide tire cleaning brushes.Note: Before entering an automatic carwash, ensure that there is the necessaryamount of ground clearancebetween the vehicle and the car washguide rails.See Section 5 of your Owner Manual.Tire Pressure MonitorThe Tire Pressure Monitor alerts youwhen a significant reduction in pressureoccurs in one or more of your vehicle’stires by illuminating the (Low TirePressure) warning light on the instrumentpanel cluster. The low tire pressurewarning light will remain on until youcorrect the tire pressure. A CHECK TIREPRESSURE message may also appearon the DIC (if equipped).Correcting the Tire PressureWhen the low tire pressure warning lightilluminates, you must inflate the tire tothe proper tire pressure (just as youmust refuel the vehicle when the lowfuel warning light illuminates). The Tireand Loading Information label shows thecorrect tire pressure for the tires whenthey’re cold. “Cold” means your vehiclehas been sitting for at least three hoursor driven no more than one mile.You can temporarily clear the DIC messageby acknowledging it with your DICcontrols. However, at the next vehiclestart-up, the DIC message will reappear ifthe tire pressure has not been corrected.During cooler conditions, the low tirepressure warning light may appear whenthe vehicle is first started and then turnoff as you start to drive. This could bean early indicator that your tire pressuresare getting low and the tires needto be inflated to the proper pressure.

19Note: The Tire Pressure Monitor canalert you about low tire pressure, but itdoesn’t replace normal monthly tiremaintenance.See Section 5 of your Owner Manual.Tire Inflator KitPremium Unleaded GasolineUse premium unleaded gasoline with aposted octane rating of 91 or higher forbest engine performance. You may alsouse regular unleaded gasoline rated at87 octane or higher, but your vehicle’sperformance may be slightly reduced.Unleaded gasoline with an octane ratingbelow 87 is not recommended.See Section 5 of your Owner Manual.Resetting the Oil Life System(if equipped)The tire inflator kit is located at theback of the trunk on the driver’s side.It includes an air compressor, a tiresealant canister, an accessory plug andan air pressure gauge. Refer to the tireinflator kit instructions for completeoperating information.See Section 5 of your Owner Manual.Towing and Dinghy TowingYour vehicle was not designed to towa trailer.It also was not designed to be towedbehind another vehicle with any of itswheels on the ground; therefore, dinghytowing also is not recommended.See Section 4 of your Owner Manual.The Oil Life System calculates engine oillife based on vehicle use and displays aCHANGE OIL SOON message in theDriver Information Center (DIC) whenit’s necessary to change your engine oiland filter. The Oil Life System should bereset to 100% only following an oilchange.To reset the Oil Life System:1. With the engine off, turn the ignitionto Run.2. Press the (Information) and(Reset) buttons on the DIC at thesame time to enter the personalizationmenu.3. Press the button until the DICdisplays OIL LIFE RESET.4. Press and hold the button for atleast one second.5. An ACKNOWLEDGED message willdisplay when the system has beenreset.See Section 5 of your Owner Manual.

20Getting to Know Your SolsticeOWNER INFORMATIONRoadside Assistance1-800-ROADSIDE(1-800-762-3743)TTY Users: 1-888-889-2438As the owner of a new Pontiac vehicle,you are automatically enrolled in thePontiac Roadside Assistance program.This value-added service is intended toprovide you with peace of mind as youdrive in the city or travel the open road.Pontiac’s Roadside Assistance toll-freenumber is staffed by a team of technicallytrained advisors who are available 24hours a day, 365 days a year, to provideminor repair information or make arrangementsto tow your vehicle to the nearestPontiac dealer.Pontiac will provide the following servicesfor 5 years/100,000 miles at no expenseto you:• Fuel delivery• Lockout service (identification required)• Tow to nearest dealership for warrantyservice• Flat tire assistance• Jump startsIn many instances, mechanical failures arecovered under Pontiac’s comprehensivewarranty. However, when other servicesare utilized, our advisors will explain anypayment obligations you might incur.For prompt and efficient assistance whencalling, please provide the following informationto the advisor:• Location of the vehicle• Telephone number and your location• Vehicle model, year and color• Vehicle mileage• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)• Vehicle license plate numberPontiac reserves the right to limit servicesor reimbursement to an owner or driverwhen, in Pontiac’s judgment, the claimsbecome excessive in frequency or type ofoccurrence.Roadside Assistance and OnStar(if equipped)If you have a current OnStar subscription,press the OnStar button and the vehiclewill send your current GPS location to anOnStar Advisor who will speak to you,assess your problem, contact RoadsideAssistance and relay your exact location soyou will get the help you need.My GMLinkThe Pontiac Owner Center at My GMLinkis a complimentary service for Pontiacowners, a one-stop resource to enhanceyour Pontiac ownership experience.Exclusive member benefits include onlineservice reminders, vehicle maintenancetips, online owner manual, special privilegesand more. Sign up today atwww.mygmlink.com.Certain restrictions, precautions and safety procedures apply to your vehicle. Please read your OwnerManual for complete instructions. All information contained herein is based on information available at thetime of printing and is subject to change without notice. Copyright 2008 by GM Corp. All rights reserved.!15899512=A!15899512 A