Positioning:
The Pontiac Aztek was positioned as a versatile, crossover utility vehicle (CUV) that blended elements of an SUV, minivan, and station wagon, aiming for a lifestyle-oriented market. Its unique styling and modular interior were key selling points, though polarizing.
Competitors:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Subaru Outback in the compact SUV/CUV segment, as well as some minivan offerings due to its flexible interior. Its distinct styling set it apart significantly.
Unique Features:
Notable for its distinctive and polarizing exterior design, optional 'Fun Package' which included a tent and sleeping bag, an integrated center console cooler, and a rear tent system. It was also one of the first vehicles to offer a factory-installed DVD entertainment system.
Cost Saving:
Enables owners to perform their own maintenance and repairs, significantly reducing labor costs at dealerships or independent repair shops.
Ease Of Use:
Designed for ease of use with step-by-step instructions and pictures, making complex repair tasks more accessible to DIY enthusiasts.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions, engine control systems (ECM/PCM)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive (FWD) systems, CV joints, axles, differentials
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake systems, ABS, brake discs, pads, calipers, lines, master cylinder, parking brake
Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, struts, shocks, control arms, springs, steering linkage
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering wheel, steering rack/gearbox
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuse box diagrams, relay locations
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) system components, controls, refrigerant, service procedures
Body:
Exterior body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, bumpers, glass, trim, interior trim, seats, dashboard
Chassis:
Frame, subframes, body mounts
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seat belts, safety restraint systems
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, brake inspections, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, identifying common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting charts
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuilding procedures, adjustments
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, fluid capacities, clearances, emissions data
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostics and electrical schematics.
Engine Type:
3.4L V6 (3400 SFI)
Displacement:
3350 cc (204.4 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 83.7 mm (3.62 in x 3.30 in)
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 12 valves (2 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower:
185 hp @ 5200 rpm (for most years)
Torque:
210 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (for most years)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)
ECM Type:
GM Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
Length:
Approx. 182.7 inches (4640 mm)
Width:
Approx. 74.0 inches (1880 mm)
Height:
Approx. 67.6 inches (1717 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.0 inches (2642 mm)
Front Track:
Approx. 61.8 inches (1570 mm)
Rear Track:
Approx. 61.7 inches (1567 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 106.0 cubic feet (3001 L)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 24.4 cubic feet (691 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 67.3 cubic feet (1905 L)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3600-3900 lbs (1633-1769 kg) depending on configuration
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4740 lbs (2150 kg)
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
★★★★ (4 stars) for driver in frontal impact (2002 Model)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
★★★★ (4 stars) for passenger in frontal impact (2002 Model)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
★★★★ (4 stars) for front seat occupant in side impact (2002 Model)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (2002 Model)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) available on some models
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), optional side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles (5,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on oil type (conventional vs. synthetic) and driving conditions. Refer to the manual for precise intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), change fluid and filter every 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km), depending on usage.
Coolant Replacement:
Initial change at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter. Use Dex-Cool compatible coolant.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 (meeting GM specification GM6094M). Capacity: 4.5 quarts (4.3 L) with filter.
Transmission Fluid:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF). Capacity: Approx. 7.5 quarts (7.1 L) for a fluid change.
Coolant:
GM Delco-DEX-COOL 50/50 mixture (Orange color).
Power Steering Fluid:
GM Power Steering Fluid (or equivalent Dexron type fluid)
Common Problems:
Some common issues reported include transmission solenoid issues (leading to shift problems), occasional cooling system leaks (especially the intake manifold gaskets on older GM V6s), and potential issues with the exhaust system catalytic converter. The distinctive styling sometimes led to unique body panel fitment issues over time.
Oil Consumption:
While not a widespread epidemic, some 3.4L V6 engines can develop oil consumption issues if not properly maintained, often related to piston rings or valve stem seals.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was a division of General Motors known for performance-oriented vehicles and unique styling, often targeting a younger demographic. The Aztek represented a departure into a niche market segment.
First Generation:
The Pontiac Aztek was introduced for the 2001 model year and remained in production through the 2005 model year in North America. The provided manual covers the initial production run.
Production Location:
Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico
Production Total:
Approximately 119,000 units were produced during its lifespan.
Discontinuation Year:
2005 model year, though the manual covers up to 2007 which might refer to specific market continuations or simply extended documentation coverage. It is important to note the primary production ended in 2005.
