1987 Firebird Owner's Manual

The 1987 Pontiac Firebird is a classic American sports coupe featuring iconic styling, powerful engine options including the 5.0L V8 and 5.7L V8, rear-wheel drive configuration, and advanced features for its era. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for your Firebird. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and technical specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Operation 3. Instrument Panel 4. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Capacities 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: T-top roof option, pop-up headlights, rear spoiler, digital dash display, premium sound system, power windows/locks, and performance suspension.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	2.8L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8 (Trans Am)
Transmission	5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Suspension	Independent front, live axle rear
Brakes	Power front disc/rear drum
Steering	Power-assisted recirculating ball
Wheels	14" or 15" alloy wheels
Seating	Bucket seats with optional leather
Audio System	AM/FM stereo with cassette player
Exterior Features	T-tops, rear spoiler, ground effects

Vehicle Operation

Starting and driving procedures for optimal performance and safety.

Starting: Insert key, ensure parking brake engaged, shift to Park/Neutral, turn ignition.
Driving: Smooth acceleration, proper shifting techniques, use of overdrive.
Braking: Progressive pressure, avoid sudden stops when possible.
Parking: Apply parking brake, shift to Park (automatic) or Reverse (manual).

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never leave children unattended in vehicle.

Instrument Panel

Dashboard controls and warning indicators.

Speedometer: Analog or digital display showing vehicle speed.
Tachometer: Engine RPM display (manual transmission models).
Fuel Gauge: Monitor fuel level regularly.
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature monitoring.
Warning Lights: Check engine, oil pressure, brake, battery indicators.

CAUTION! Address warning lights immediately to prevent damage.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 2.8L V6 (135 hp), 5.0L V8 (170 hp), 5.7L V8 (215 hp)
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity: 15.5 gallons
Curb Weight: 3,200-3,500 lbs
Wheelbase: 101.0 inches
Length: 191.5 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 49.9 inches
Brakes: Front disc 10.5", rear drum 9.5"

Controls and Features

Dashboard and console controls for vehicle operation.

Steering Column: Ignition, turn signals, headlight control, wiper controls.

Center Console: Climate controls, radio, cassette player, power window switches (if equipped), gear selector.

Climate: Temperature control, fan speed, vent selection, defrost. Audio: AM/FM stereo, cassette player, balance/fader controls. Lighting: Headlight switch, interior dome light, instrument panel brightness.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Filter Replacement: Air filter every 15,000 miles, fuel filter annually
Tire Rotation: Every 6,000 miles
Brake Inspection: Every 10,000 miles
Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
Timing Belt: Replace every 60,000 miles (V6 models)

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Fluid Capacities

Recommended fluid types and capacities.

Engine Oil: 4-5 quarts (5W-30)
Coolant: 12-14 quarts (50/50 mix)
Transmission Fluid: 3-4 quarts (Dexron II)
Brake Fluid: DOT 3
Power Steering: 1.5 quarts (Dexron II)
Differential: 2.5 pints (80W-90 gear oil)
Windshield Washer: 1 gallon

WARNING! Use only recommended fluids to prevent damage.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment and operation.

Seat Belts: Three-point front lap/shoulder belts. Braking System: Power-assisted front disc/rear drum with dual-circuit design. Lighting: Halogen headlights, side marker lights, center high-mount stop light. Structural: Energy-absorbing steering column, side-impact protection.

Care & Cleaning

Proper cleaning and preservation techniques.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, wax regularly, clean T-top seals. Interior: Vacuum carpets, clean vinyl/leather with appropriate cleaners, protect dashboard from UV damage.

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners. Do not use high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

1987 Pontiac Firebird came with 12-month/12,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/50,000-mile powertrain warranty. Rust-through coverage: 6 years/100,000 miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Pontiac dealership with proof of purchase and maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat	Check coolant, inspect radiator, replace thermostat
Poor fuel economy	Air filter, tire pressure	Replace air filter, check tire inflation
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Inspect brake rotors, replace if warped
Electrical issues	Alternator, battery	Test charging system, check battery voltage

Service: Contact authorized Pontiac dealership for professional service.

Parts: Genuine GM parts recommended for optimal performance.