Segment:
Compact SUV / Crossover
Brand Positioning:
Pontiac aimed to offer a unique, stylish, and versatile vehicle catering to active lifestyles, though market reception was mixed due to its unconventional styling and driving dynamics.
Key Competitors 2005:
Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester.
Unique Selling Points:
Highly configurable interior (optional camping configurations, in-car entertainment options), distinctive polarizing styling, available AWD.
Dashboard And Controls:
Instrument Cluster (gauges, warning lights), Driver Controls (steering wheel adjustments, pedals), Climate Controls (HVAC system operation, manual/automatic modes), Lights (headlights, interior lights, fog lamps).
Infotainment And Convenience:
Entertainment Systems (radio, CD player, speaker controls), Locks and Security (door locks, keyless entry, anti-theft system).
Safety And Ergonomics:
Seating and Safety Restraints (seat adjustment, seat belts, airbag system, child seat installation), Driving (basic operation, starting, stopping, parking).
Maintenance And Refueling:
Maintenance and Specifications, Engine compartment (fluid checks, component identification), Engine oil (type, checking level, changing), Battery (maintenance, testing), Fuel information (fuel type, octane rating, fuel economy), Airfilter(s) (replacement).
Parts And Capacities:
Part numbers (for common consumables like filters, bulbs, etc. where applicable for owner replacement), Refill capacities (engine oil, coolant, washer fluid, etc.), Lubricant specifications (viscosity grades, types).
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), Tire pressure checks and adjustments, Wiper blade inspection and replacement, Bulb replacement (headlights, taillights, interior lights), Air filter replacement.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic troubleshooting for common issues like starting problems or electronic glitches (as described through operational advice).
Cleaning And Care:
Interior and exterior cleaning recommendations, specific advice for upholstery and trim.
Accessories Installation:
Information on installing or using factory-approved accessories.
Depth Level:
Owner-level maintenance and operation. Covers routine checks, fluid types, capacities, basic troubleshooting, and operational guidance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Engine Type:
3.4L V6 (LA1)
Engine Configuration:
Overhead Valve (OHV), V6
Horsepower 2005:
185 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque 2005:
210 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change (verify with manual for exact figure).
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 5W-30 (API Service SJ or higher, ILSAC GF-2 or higher - verify with manual for exact specification).
Engine Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 US quarts (9.0 Liters) (verify with manual).
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Wix 49351 / ACDelco PF1011 (Example, actual part number may vary, refer to manual for specific OE part number).
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
N/A (Only Automatic was offered for 2005)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-VI or equivalent (GM superseded Dexron-III to Dexron-VI. Verify with manual for correct specification at time of production).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) for refill (verify with manual).
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
Five Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
Five Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
Four Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:
Four Stars
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Optional (TCS)
Airbags Front:
Standard Dual Stage Frontal Airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional Front Side-Impact Airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.
Audio System Options:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound systems, rear seat audio controls, and headphone jacks.
Display Technology:
Basic digital displays for radio and climate control, with analog gauges for primary instrumentation.
Rear Park Assist:
Optional
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely standard; some later models or aftermarket installations might feature aux input.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Severe driving conditions may require more frequent changes. (Verify specific interval with manual).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as part of oil change. (Verify with manual).
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed based on driving conditions. (Verify with manual).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Typically recommended at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for normal service, but early changes may be beneficial for heavy use. (Verify with manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (Verify with manual).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
GM Power Steering Fluid or Dexron-VI/III ATF (Verify with manual).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water or a dedicated washer fluid concentrate (often with de-icer for cold climates).
Common Problems 2005:
While not explicitly detailed in the owner's manual, common owner-reported issues for the Aztek can include: catalytic converter failure, intake manifold gasket leaks (on certain GM V6 engines of this era), fuel pump issues, and minor electrical gremlins. The manual will guide on preventative maintenance to mitigate some of these.
Pontiac Identity:
Pontiac was a division of General Motors known for performance-oriented and performance-styled vehicles, aiming at a younger demographic. The Aztek marked a departure into the crossover SUV segment.
Original Concept:
Originated from the 1999 Pontiac Aztek concept car, showcasing a bold, futuristic, and somewhat polarizing design. Introduced to the market for the 2001 model year.
Design Philosophy:
Designed to be a versatile 'sport-utility vehicle' with a focus on utility, modularity, and unique features like an optional tent and camping package.
Production Years:
2001-2005
Manufacturing Plant:
General Motors Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kansas.
