Introduction
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Market Position
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Segment:
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Unconventional crossover SUV, often marketed as a versatile utility vehicle or 'concept-car-for-the-road'.
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Target Audience:
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Active individuals and families seeking a flexible vehicle with SUV-like utility and a unique aesthetic.
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Competitive Analysis
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Key Competitors:
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Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda Tribute, Subaru Outback
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Key Features
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Design Philosophy:
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Bold, distinctive, and highly functional design emphasizing modularity and utility. Often characterized by its plastic body cladding and unique 'molded in color' body panels.
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Practicality:
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Spacious interior, versatile cargo configurations, available modular accessories (e.g., custom roof rack systems, side-storage bins).
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Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Safety Systems:
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Seat Belts, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) Airbags, Child Protection (LATCH/ISOFIX, Child Seat Anchors)
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Driver Controls:
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Instruments, Gauges, Information Display, Dashboard Layout, Steering Column Controls
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Comfort Convenience:
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Climate Control System, Audio System, Steering Wheel Controls, Security System, Cruise Control System
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Powertrain Operation:
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Engine Operation, Transmission Operation (Automatic)
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Maintenance Care:
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Vehicle Minder System, Fluid Level Checks, Minor Service Procedures, Vehicle Storage Procedures
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Emergency Procedures:
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Flat Tire Changing, Jump Starting (Dead Battery), Overheating Symptoms and Actions, Fuse Identification and Replacement
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Technical Information:
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Vehicle Specifications, Tire Information, Emissions Control Systems
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Warranty Customer:
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Warranty Information, Customer Relations Contact Information
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Procedures Included
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Driving Operation:
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Proper engine and transmission use, break-in procedures, cargo loading recommendations
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Maintenance Tasks:
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Routine fluid checks (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning recommendations
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Troubleshooting Minor:
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Understanding warning lights and indicators, basic steps for common issues like overheating or a dead battery
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Safety Operation:
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Correct use of seat belts, child seat installation guidelines, understanding airbag system functionality
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Technical Depth
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Depth:
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Consumer-level information focused on operation, basic maintenance, and safety. Does not cover in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics.
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Safety Features
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Ratings
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NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Driver:
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Four stars (1999-2007 models)
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NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating Passenger:
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Four stars (1999-2007 models)
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NHTSA Side Impact Rating Front Driver:
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Five stars (1999-2007 models)
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NHTSA Side Impact Rating Front Passenger:
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Five stars (1999-2007 models)
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IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Test:
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Good (for models tested)
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Active Features
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ABS:
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Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
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Traction Control:
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Optional Traction Control System (TCS)
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Passive Features
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Airbags:
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Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags optional.
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Seat Belts:
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Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat pretensioners.
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Child Seat Anchors:
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LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (with synthetic blend oil and filter).
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Tire Rotation Interval:
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Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km)
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Air Filter Replacement:
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Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.
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Coolant Flush:
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First flush at 100,000 miles (160,000 km), then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) thereafter.
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Spark Plugs Replacement:
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Platinum-tipped spark plugs: 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Grade:
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SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic Blend Recommended)
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Coolant Type:
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GM Goodwrench 50/50 Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent orange silicate-free, for extended life)
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3
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Power Steering Fluid Type:
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Dexron-III (or equivalent)
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Windshield Washer Fluid:
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Mixture of water and approved washer fluid concentrate
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Front suspension components (struts, ball joints), brake pads and rotors, exhaust system components due to age.
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Common Issues
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Interior Components:
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Some reports of HVAC blower motor failures and interior trim piece wear.
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Powertrain Reliability:
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Generally reliable V6 engine, but routine maintenance is crucial. Transmission can be sensitive to fluid condition.
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Electrical Systems:
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Potential for minor electrical gremlins as the vehicle ages, such as window regulators or accessory failures.
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Vehicle History
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Brand Heritage
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Pontiac Legacy:
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Pontiac was a performance-oriented division of General Motors, known for sporty styling and a wide range of vehicles from sedans to muscle cars.
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Model Evolution
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Aztek Concept:
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The Pontiac Aztek was based on the 1999 Pontiac Aztek concept vehicle, showcasing a radical design with a focus on utility and personalization.
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Introduction Year:
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Introduced for the 2001 model year.
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Production Period:
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2001-2005
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Production
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Platform:
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GM U platform (shared with Chevrolet Venture, Uplander, Pontiac Montana, and Oldsmobile Silhouette minivans).
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Manufacturing Location:
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General Motors' CAMI Automotive plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada.
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