Vehicle Class:
Full-size Sedan
Target Audience:
Families, executive sedan buyers seeking comfort, space, and a comfortable ride.
Key Competitors:
Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Toyota Avalon, Buick LeSabre.
Interior Comfort:
Known for its spacious and comfortable interior, often featuring premium options.
Ride Quality:
Prioritizes a smooth and quiet ride, typical of American full-size sedans.
Engine Options:
Offered with robust V6 and V8 engine options providing ample power.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Electrical System, HVAC, Body, Interior, Safety Features, Controls, Gauges, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Specifications
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Format:
PDF (Electronic Copy)
Engine Operation:
Detailed explanation of engine components, operation, and basic maintenance procedures.
Powertrain Management:
Information on transmission operation, fluid levels, and basic care.
Braking System:
Explanation of braking components, ABS operation, and fluid checks.
Steering And Suspension:
Overview of steering system, suspension components, and tire pressure recommendations.
Electrical And Lighting:
Details on interior and exterior lighting, fuses, battery care, and dashboard indicators.
Climate Control:
Instructions for operating the HVAC system, including climate control settings and basic troubleshooting.
Interior Features:
Guidance on operating seats, seat belts, airbags, interior controls, and audio system.
Safety And Security:
Information on airbags, seat belts, child restraints, and vehicle security systems.
Routine Maintenance:
Guidance on checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire inflation, and light bulb replacement.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Information on interpreting warning lights and indicators, and basic steps for resolving common issues.
Fuel And Refueling:
Instructions on fuel types, cap operation, and fuel economy tips.
Driving And Operation:
Guidance on starting, shifting, parking, and operating vehicle features.
Emergency Procedures:
Information on using hazard lights, changing a flat tire, and jump-starting the vehicle.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive owner-level understanding, focusing on operation, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Software Requirement:
Adobe Acrobat Reader or compatible PDF viewer.
Searchability:
Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Generally printable, allowing for physical copies.
Operating Systems:
Windows XP, Vista. (Generally compatible with most modern operating systems that support PDF viewing).
Binding Type:
N/A (Electronic File)
Paper Type:
N/A (Electronic File)
Engine Type Standard:
3.8L V6 (L36) naturally aspirated
Horsepower Standard:
205 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Standard:
230 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Engine Type Optional:
3.8L V6 Supercharged (L67)
Horsepower Optional:
235 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque Optional:
250 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane (for L36), 91 Octane recommended for L67 Supercharged
Block Material:
Cast Iron
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
4/5 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for the era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags
Seat Belts:
Front pretensioner seat belts
Child Restraints:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system in rear seats
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with cassette and CD player. Optional premium audio systems available.
Climate Control Type:
Manual or optional automatic climate control systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Tire Pressure Monitoring:
Not standard; some models may have aftermarket systems or warning lights.
Auxiliary Input:
Not typically equipped with standard aux input or USB; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specifics).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or as recommended by tire manufacturer.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Approximately every 50,000 miles or 5 years, depending on coolant type.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 3.8L V6 (L36/L67): SAE 5W-30, API Service SG or higher (check manual for specific GM specifications)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/VI Automatic Transmission Fluid
Coolant Type:
GM Type II Orange Coolant (or equivalent)
Common Complaints Engine:
Intake manifold gasket leaks (3800 Series II V6), occasional oil leaks, spark plug issues.
Common Complaints Transmission:
Torque converter shudder, transmission solenoid issues (less common but possible).
Common Complaints Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, sway bar links, and struts/shocks.
Common Complaints Electrical:
Window regulator failures, power lock actuator issues, ambient temperature sensor failures.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac was known for performance-oriented vehicles and sporty styling within GM's lineup.
Bonneville Lineage:
The Bonneville nameplate has a long history dating back to the 1950s, evolving from a flagship luxury coupe to a full-size sedan.
Gm Platform:
This generation of Bonneville is based on GM's G platform (also known as the LWB H Body).
Production Period:
The third generation Bonneville, including the 2001 model, was produced from 1992 to 2005.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in Detroit, Michigan, USA.