Market Segment:
Mid-size crossover SUV, positioned as a versatile and utility-focused vehicle.
Key Competitors 2003:
Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Nissan Xterra.
Design Philosophy:
Unique, polarizing styling; emphasis on modularity and cargo versatility, including optional accessories like a camping tent and side-mounted cargo carrier.
Unique Offerings:
Optional 'Versatrak' all-wheel-drive system, 'Global' platform shared with the Pontiac Vibe and Toyota Matrix.
Systems Covered:
Operation, maintenance, safety, controls, features, comfort, convenience, cargo, towing, troubleshooting, tire care, jump starting, fluid checks, light bulb replacement.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 150-200 pages (typical for an owner's manual of this era).
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Powertrain:
Information on engine operation, basic checks, and advice related to the transmission.
Chassis:
Details on brakes, steering, suspension, and tire maintenance.
Electrical:
Includes information on lighting, instrument panel indicators, fuses, and basic electrical features.
Comfort Convenience:
Operation of climate control, audio system, power accessories, interior lighting, and seating adjustments.
Safety Security:
Seat belt usage, airbag system information, child restraints, vehicle security system, and emergency procedures.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, replacing windshield wiper blades.
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights, basic diagnostic tips for common issues (e.g., starting problems, overheating).
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting a dead battery, changing a flat tire, basic emergency preparedness.
Technical Depth:
Covers user-level operations and maintenance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures, repair instructions, or wiring diagrams typical of a service manual.
Engine Code:
LA1 (GM Ecotec LE5 replacement for 2003)
Engine Type:
3.4L V6 (3400 SFI)
Displacement:
3.4 liters (3430 cc)
Valvetrain:
Overhead Valve (OHV), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
185 hp @ 5200 rpm
Torque:
210 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 10.0 quarts (9.5 liters) with engine oil cooler.
Length:
181.0 inches (4597 mm)
Width:
71.1 inches (1806 mm)
Height:
65.9 inches (1674 mm)
Wheelbase:
106.5 inches (2705 mm)
Front Track:
60.5 inches (1537 mm)
Rear Track:
60.7 inches (1542 mm)
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row:
33.7 cubic feet (954 liters)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row:
63.0 cubic feet (1784 liters)
Curb Weight FWD:
3,636 lbs (1649 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
3,789 lbs (1719 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4,828 lbs (2190 kg) FWD / 4,960 lbs (2250 kg) AWD
Towing Capacity:
Up to 3500 lbs (1588 kg) with proper equipment and engine.
NHTSA Frontal Driver Rating:
Four Stars (2003 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Rating:
Four Stars (2003 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset Rating:
Good (for 2002 and later redesigns)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on FWD models.
Airbags:
Standard front driver and passenger airbags. Optional side-impact airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts in all seating positions, front seat belt pretensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil recommended).
Tire Rotation:
Every 7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Cabin Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (typically every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Platinum tipped spark plugs rated for 100,000 miles (check specific replacement intervals).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (GM P/N 12345816 or equivalent)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 quarts (4.3 liters) with filter.
Coolant Type:
GM Dex-Cool® (Orange) Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (GM P/N 12377992 or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Issues can include dashboard delamination, HVAC blend door actuator failure, rear differential leaks (AWD models), and occasional electronic module failures. The 3.4L V6 is generally reliable but can experience oil leaks with age.
Pontiac Legacy:
Pontiac, a division of General Motors, was known for performance-oriented vehicles and distinctive styling from its founding in 1926 until its discontinuation in 2010.
Aztek Introduction:
The Pontiac Aztek was introduced for the 2001 model year. It was designed to be a versatile 'sport-custom' vehicle, blending elements of an SUV, minivan, and wagon.
Aztek Redesign:
Received a significant styling update and platform improvements for the 2005 model year, though it maintained its core concept.
Production Period:
2001-2005
Assembly Location:
Fairfax, Kansas, USA (GM Fairfax Assembly)
Design Recognition:
The Aztek's polarizing design earned it a spot on 'Most Hated Cars' lists from various automotive publications, but also garnered attention for its unconventional approach and utility.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received average to below-average ratings for predicted reliability across most categories.
