When the engine coolant is heated and cooled over normal driving, the additive package that is blended in when the coolant is made is consumed. The result is antifreeze that looks fine and hasn't had its freezing point altered, but does nothing to keep corrosion at bay. Change the coolant every two years. The head gaskets, water pump, heater core, and radiator will last almost forever.
Don't forget to also check the hoses for deterioration. A coolant hose should be firm but pliable. If it's either very hard or soft and mushy, it needs to be replaced.
Many an engine has been ruined because of a lack of coolant service. Don't let yours be one of them.
5 Change Is Good
Almost any machine has what is considered working fluids. In a car, they are the power steering, brake, and transmission fluids. The differential fluid is considered a lubricant. None of these fluids, including what is found in the differential, have an indefinite life expectancy. They are heated and cooled, absorb moisture, and are subjected to an infusion of dirt and grit. Thus, they need to be changed at least every three years.
Brake fluid is especially sensitive to wicking in moisture, and the system should be serviced with only new, fresh fluid--not a 3/4-full can that you had sitting on the shelf for three years. Investing in a hand-held, one-man bleeding tool (approximately $70) makes the task very easy and efficient.
To change the power steering fluid, you can use an inexpensive cooking baster to suck out the old fluid; then pour in the proper fluid. Consult your Pontiac owner's manual for the correct fluid. Many think it's alright to use ATF, and in some cars, it is. Others require a specific power steering fluid.
After changing the fluid, you need to bleed the system. This is very easy. Jack up and support the frontend so the tires don't touch the ground. With the engine idling and the cap off the PS reservoir, keep turning the steering wheel slowly lock-to-lock. After a few complete turns, check the fluid for air bubbles. If there are signs of air still trapped in the fluid, do a few more complete steering wheel rotations. Top off the level and you're done.
Installing an ATF pan with a drain plug or welding one into the factory pan makes trans fluid changes very easy. Keep in mind that you cannot drain the fluid from the torque converter, so it will take a few services to get it all replaced.
6 Grease Monkey
If your Pontiac has a greaseable front-end, don't forget to service it properly. This begins with using a suitable chassis lubricant in your grease gun and wiping off the fitting with a clean rag before you attach to it. If you don't wipe it clean, you will pump all of the grit and dirt into the part and it will wear prematurely. Carefully pump the grease gun while watching the rubber boot. You want enough grease to exit the perimeter of the boot to push out any water or moisture that is there. If no water comes out, as soon as you see the grease, stop. Wipe the joint clean with a rag.
7 Fuelishly Clean
Carbon deposits form in any engine due to the chemical composition of the gasoline. The result is the need for higher octane fuel and a degradation in engine performance. To keep deposits at bay (either carburetor or EFI engines), use a name-brand gasoline, which advertises that it limits carbon formation. This alone will not be enough. Treat the fuel tank with a high-quality cleaner such as Chevron Techron Fuel Systems Concentrate. This product is very effective in both EFI and carbureted Pontiacs. When used every few thousand miles, it removes carbon deposits.