Positioning:
The Pontiac Aztek was marketed as a versatile, multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or crossover utility vehicle (CUV), attempting to blend SUV-like utility with minivan practicality and car-like driving dynamics. It targeted buyers seeking a flexible and unconventional vehicle.
Competitors:
Primary competitors included other early crossover SUVs and minivans such as the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and potentially some higher-trim SUVs and lower-trim minivans. Its unique styling often placed it in a category of its own.
Unique Selling Points:
Innovative "total concept" design, optional camping package (with tent and mattress), versatile cargo system, available all-wheel drive, distinctive styling.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Transmission operation (automatic), all-wheel drive system (if equipped).
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system.
Electrical:
Lighting system, instrument cluster, power outlets, battery, fuses, basic electrical features.
Body:
Doors, windows, locks, seating, cargo area, roof rack system (if equipped), styling elements.
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control system (HVAC), audio system, cruise control, power accessories, interior lighting.
Operation:
Starting and driving the vehicle, operating controls, parking, towing precautions.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire inflation, wiper blade replacement, basic cleaning.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic diagnostic information for common issues.
Safety:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraint system installation, emergency procedures.
Depth:
Designed for the end-user, covering essential operational, maintenance, and safety information. Does not delve into in-depth mechanical or electrical diagnostics or repair procedures typically found in service manuals.
Compatibility:
Readable on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
Quality:
Printable on standard home or office printers. Quality is dependent on the user's printer and settings.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF format)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital PDF format)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
Not Applicable for 2004 model year; AWD was optional, not a transmission variant.
Driver Selectable Modes:
Driver Shift Control (PRNDL with Overdrive Off button)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III (or equivalent recommended by GM for this application, e.g., Dexron-VI).
Length:
186.3 inches (4732 mm)
Width:
71.2 inches (1808 mm)
Height:
65.0 inches (1651 mm)
Wheelbase:
110.5 inches (2807 mm)
Front Track:
61.4 inches (1560 mm)
Rear Track:
61.4 inches (1560 mm)
Passenger Volume:
105.4 cu ft (2984 L)
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Up:
27.7 cu ft (784 L)
Cargo Volume Rear Seat Down:
62.2 cu ft (1761 L)
Curb Weight FWD:
3,700 lbs (1678 kg) approx.
Curb Weight AWD:
3,870 lbs (1755 kg) approx.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4,850 lbs (2200 kg) approx.
NHTSA Front Driver Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Front Passenger Impact:
5 Stars
NHTSA Side Driver Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Passenger Impact:
4 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Acceptable
IIHS Side Impact:
Poor (early tests)
ABS:
Standard 4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, available side-impact airbags (often optional or standard on higher trims).
Seat Belts:
Three-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.
Latch System:
Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system in rear seating positions.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player, optional premium sound system with amplifier and subwoofer. Available rear-seat entertainment system on some trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Rear parking assist sensors were optional on some trims.
Power Outlets:
Multiple 12V auxiliary power outlets.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. Consult manual for severe driving conditions.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect annually, replace as needed (typically every 15,000-30,000 miles).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30, API certified.
Coolant Type:
GM P/N 10528279 (or equivalent orange-colored coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
GM P/N 12369179 (or equivalent washer fluid, or water in warm weather).
Common Complaints:
Potential for intake manifold gasket leaks (common on GM 3.4L V6), power steering leaks, HVAC system issues (blend door actuators), and occasional transmission hard shifts or failure. Some reports of oil consumption.
Standard Tire Size:
215/60R17
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x115mm
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was a division of General Motors known for its performance-oriented vehicles and youthful branding, though the Aztek was a departure from its traditional muscle car image.
Development Context:
The Aztek was developed on the GM U-body platform, shared with the Pontiac Montana minivan and other GM minivans. It was conceived as a radical new direction for GM, aiming to capture a new market segment.
Production Years:
2001-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Fairfax, Kansas, USA (GM Fairfax Assembly Plant)
2004 Changes:
Minor revisions to feature packaging and availability, but no major redesign from the initial launch.
