Pontiac G8 manual Parking Brake, Powertrain Braking

Driving and Operating 8-9

When accelerating the vehicle from a stop in snowy and icy conditions, 1st, 2nd or 3rd gear starts can

be selected from a standing start. This is useful for gentle acceleration on slippery surfaces.

To return to Normal Shift mode, slide the shift lever over from the right quadrant to the left into D (Drive). A Normal Shift message will be displayed in the DIC.

Normal Shift Mode is recommended for normal or freeway driving, as

it provides optimum fuel economy.

Powertrain Braking

For vehicles with a 6 speed automatic transmission, there is an additional feature known

as Powertrain Braking. When driving on steep descents where frequent braking is required, the vehicle

will automatically downshift to provide engine braking assistance. This feature also reduces brake temperatures and wear.

Downshifting will only occur when the driver’s foot is applied to the brake. Driver Shift Control can be switched on to override the feature and gain complete control of shifts if desired.

Parking Brake

To set the parking brake, pull up on the parking brake handle. If the ignition is in the ON/RUN position, the brake system warning light will come on. See Brake System Warning Light on page 4-16.

To release the parking brake:

1.Hold the brake pedal down.

2.Pull the parking brake handle up until you can press the release button.

3.Hold the release button in as you move the brake handle all the way down.

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.

Driving with the park brake applied will cause a warning chime to sound and the Park Brake message to appear in the DIC. The message will remain on until:

•the park brake is released

•the vehicle comes to a stop.

If you are towing a trailer and you are parking on a hill, see Towing a Trailer on page 9-85.