Help Center

Glossary

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      • 117-point inspection

        GM's rigorous, factory-specified inspection process for new and certified used vehicles. This process examines 117 different systems and components to ensure that a particular vehicle is in a safe, reliable operating condition.

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      • 3-point, all positions safety belts (rear)

        Safety restraints, each consisting of a single continuous length of webbing for each of the rear passengers.

      • 3-point, driver and right-front passenger safety belts (front)

        Safety restraints, each consisting of a single continuous length of webbing for the driver and right-front passenger.

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      • 4-wheel disc antilock brake system with Electronic Brake Force Distribution

        Designed to help drivers maintain steering control by reducing wheel lockup during hard braking on most slippery or dry surfaces. Electronic Brake Force Distribution was developed to help distribute brake force between the front and rear wheels, depending on how the car is loaded. This also helps reduce stopping distances, particularly when carrying heavy loads.

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      • 60/40 split-folding rear seat

        Seatbacks that fold down completely or split 60/40 to accommodate passengers or gear.

      • 6-way power driver seat adjuster

        Power driver seat (with a manual lumbar adjuster) that allows both the driver and passenger the option of six different seating positions for maximum driving comfort.

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      • Active Fuel Management™

        Fuel-saving technology that enables an engine to seamlessly operate on only half its cylinders when full power is not needed, improving efficiency by as much as 12 percent (in some vehicles).

      • All-weather floor mats

        Helps prevent mud, snow and other materials from damaging the vehicle's carpets.

      • All-wheel drive (AWD)

        Available, on-demand all-wheel-drive system which delivers power to the front wheels during normal driving on dry road surfaces; but if rain, snow, or mud cause front-wheel slippage, power is automatically delivered to the rear wheels.

      • Annual Percentage Rate (APR)

        The cost of credit expressed as a yearly rate.

      • Auto-dimming mirror

        Detects ambient light and glare from other headlights on the road. The advanced electrochromic sensing technology dims the mirror to give you optimal glare protection and rear vision.

      • Auxiliary input jack

        Allows you to plug-and-play an iPod® or standard MP3-player, and listen to (as well as control the volume of) digital music via your vehicle's audio system.

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      • Battery Rundown Protection

        A feature that remembers when you don't. Battery-rundown protection automatically shuts off interior lights after the vehicle has been sitting with the engine off for a preset amount of time.

      • Bilstein® monotube shock absorbers

        Disperse heat more effectively than a twin-tube shock. This results in a cooler, more efficient operation, and a longer shock absorber life. The lighter weight of the shock is also known to reduce wear-and-tear on suspension components.

      • Budget

        Tool commonly used to measure expenses against income. A written plan that helps people manage their money.

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      • Cash rebate

        A special payment from the manufacturer to the customer towards the purchase or lease of a new vehicle. Also called an "Incentive."

      • Cat-back exhaust

        Constructed of T-304 stainless steel with mandrel bent tubing and a semi-polished muffler; available with an adjustable and interchangeable, fully polished exhaust tip that displays the Pontiac logo.

      • Certification inspection

        The first of several steps required for a vehicle to achieve GM Certified Status. The Certification Inspection is an in-depth check of key components on a particular used vehicle. To even be considered for a Certification Inspection, the vehicle must have a manufacture date no earlier than 2002, and fewer than 60,000 total miles.

      • Credit application

        A written request for credit.

      • Credit report

        A report containing detailed information on a person's credit history, including identifying information, credit accounts and loans, bankruptcies and late payments, and recent inquiries. It can be obtained by prospective lenders to determine a borrower's creditworthiness.

      • Credit score

        A measure of credit risk calculated from a credit report using a standardized formula. Factors than can damage a credit score include late payments, absence of credit references and unfavorable credit card use. Lenders may use a credit score to determine whether to provide a loan and what rate to charge.

      • Cruise control

        Factory-installed system that automatically monitors and controls vehicle speed.

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      • Daytime running lamps

        Reduced-intensity lamps on the front of vehicles that automatically illuminate when a vehicle is driven. They make the vehicle easier to see in a variety of daytime conditions including fog, rain, dusk, and bright sunlight.

      • Down payment

        In a financing transaction, the amount you put towards your vehicle purchase. Special low financing rates may require a minimum down payment.

      • Dual-stage driver and right-front passenger air bags2 with Passenger Sensing System

        Dual-stage frontal air bags utilize sensors to help detect the severity of a crash, then determines if the air bags should be deployed and whether a full or less-than-full amount of inflation is to be used. In less severe crashes or when the seats are in the full-forward position, the air bags will deploy at less than full level. The Passenger Sensing System automatically switches the right-front passenger frontal air bag on or off based on the passenger's weight and the type of pressure on the seat.

      • Dual-zone automatic climate control

        Allows both the driver- and right-front passenger to set two independent temperature preferences. Once set at a specified temperature, the cabin is maintained at that temperature, making constant readjustment unnecessary.

      • DVD Entertainment System

        Includes a rear seat 8-inch LCD screen, wireless headsets with volume control, and auxiliary input jack for iPod/MP3 player.

      • DVD Navigation system3

        Available system that uses a navigation CD to provide step-by-step driving directions and reliable information on the road. The navigation radio lets you select between routes using either the shortest route or the one that utilizes major roads.

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      • Electronic throttle control

        Replaces throttle cable with electronics and algorithms for precise engine and vehicle response. RPM-based versus speed-based, ETC tailors throttle behavior to be more deliberate or unfettered as input demands. Advanced engineering engages the oil system as a cooling mechanism; pistons are bathed by a continuous spray from oil jets, increasing engine stamina by this targeted reduction of operating temperature.

      • Engine block heater

        Plug-in resistance heating element that warms the engine oil and coolant while the engine is turned off. This helps keep your engine block warm allowing for cold-weather starts.

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      • Flangeless wheels

        Wheels designed without a ridge along the outer perimeter of the wheel. This allows the spokes to go flush to the wheel and enables the wheel weights to be placed on the inside instead of the outside. Flangeless design also makes for a cleaner overall wheel appearance.

      • Front brake cooling ducts

        Hidden behind the front fascia, these ducts channel cool air directly to your front brakes for more effective braking and longer brake life.

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      • G6 Convertible retractable hardtop

        Retractable hardtop jointly developed with Karmann, the renowned convertible specialist. As the hardtop fully retracts, the steel roof stows away in about 30 seconds.

      • GMAC Insurance

        The GMAC Insurance Group is one of the largest property and casualty insurance companies in the United States and is part of GMAC Financial Services. The company provides a broad range of insurance and insurance-related products and services for individual consumers, as well as automotive dealerships and other businesses.

      • GMAC SmartEdge

        An online financial education center available through GMAC that helps you manage your credit, live within your budget, and get SmartEdge certified.

      • GM Flexible Earnings Card

        With the GM Flexible Earnings Card, you decide your reward. Earn 3% GM Vehicle Earnings on your credit card purchases, good toward the purchase or lease of over 50 eligible, new GM vehicles. Or, you can even get 1% cash back. Visit gmcard.com for more information and to apply.

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      • Heads Up Display

        Holographic display which projects vital vehicle information onto the vehicle windshield, preventing drivers from having to take their eyes off the road to monitor gauges.

      • Head-curtain side air bags4

        Roof-mounted head curtain side air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of head and neck injuries to front and rear seat outboard occupants on the near-side of certain side-impact collisions.

      • Headrest DVD system

        Includes two wireless headphones, a remote control, a passenger-side headrest with DVD player and a 7-inch flat-screen monitor. Additional options include second screen and dual-player system.

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      • Incentive

        A special payment from the manufacturer to the customer towards the purchase or lease of a new vehicle. Also called a "Cash rebate."

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      • Lease agreement

        An agreement between the owner of the property (lessor) and the user (leasee) for the use of a leased vehicle subject to stated terms and conditions for a certain length of time and for an agreed upon payment.

      • Lockout protection

        Safety feature that prevents the vehicle from being locked when the keys are in the ignition.

      • Lower Anchors and Top tethers for CHildren (LATCH) in second row seating positions

        Engineered to secure today's child-safety seats, as well as next-generation child-restraint equipment.

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      • Magnasteer II™ steering

        Advanced steering system that actively varies the amount of power-assist to a driver's steering input depending on speed, providing improved road feel and greater driver control and stability. At higher speeds, Magnasteer decreases the amount of power-assist, demanding higher steering effort from the driver.

      • Mileage limits

        The number of miles per year agreed upon in the lease agreement – usually 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

      • Monsoon® premium sound system5

        225-watt system that boasts up to nine speakers and includes a separate subwoofer.

      • MSRP

        Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. Sometimes referred to as "sticker price," MSRP represents the manufacturer's recommended retail selling price for a particular vehicle at a particular trim level.

      • Multi-point vehicle inspection

        A comprehensive vehicle inspection, performed by a qualified dealership, that evaluates multiple "points" on a particular vehicle such as: the engine, transmission, safety equipment, and tires.

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      • Normal wear

        Normal wear is the minor and reasonable wear a vehicle endures in everyday, ordinary operation. Normal wear can include removable stains, paint scratches that can be buffed out during reconditioning, or tire treads worn to 1/8" depth or more at the shallowest point.

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      • OnStar®6

        OnStar is the in-vehicle safety and security system created to help protect you and your family on the road. OnStar's innovative three-button system offers 24-hour access to expertly trained, caring Advisors, connection to emergency assistance, and access to OnStar Hands-Free Calling,7 among other features.

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      • PASS-Key III Plus

        Theft-deterrent system that utilizes a special ignition key that temporarily disables the starter and fuel injection system if an attempt is made to start the vehicle without a properly coded key.

      • Performance-Tuned Suspension

        Suspension distinguished by larger stabilizer bars, stiffer springs and shocks and sport-specific suspension tuning.

      • Power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals

        System that allows you to automatically adjust your pedals through easily accessible switches that adapt to your height and comfort zone, and ensure greater driving control.

      • Power windows with driver express-down

        Windows that open via an electronic switch with the lowering of the driver-side window controlled by one touch.

      • Power, magnetic, variable-assist, rack-and-pinion steering

        Advanced steering system that actively varies the amount of power-assist to a driver's steering input depending on speed, providing improved road feel, control and stability for greater driving comfort.

      • Power, programmable door locks with lockout protection

        Door locks that can be programmed to lock and unlock depending on parameters set by the driver. Lockout protection prevents the vehicle from being locked while the keys are in the ignition.

      • Projector-beam foglamps

        Precisely formed lens helps evenly distribute light for improved visibility.

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      • Registration fees

        Registration fees generally include any use taxes, license plate costs, and other vehicle fees assessed by your state government. Registration fees are determined by your state department of motor vehicles, not automakers or vehicle retailers.

      • Remote vehicle starter system

        Remote device capable of starting a vehicle from up to 200 feet away, allowing the interior to be warmed up or cooled down by the climate control system, prior to entering the vehicle.

      • Residual value

        The end of term value of the vehicle established at the beginning of the lease and used in calculating your base monthly payment. This value may be determined, whole or in part, by using residual value guidebooks (independently published value guides).

      • Retained accessory power

        Provides power to windows, heated seats, sunroof and accessories for up to 10 minutes after the engine is turned off or until the driver door is opened.

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      • Safety Cage Construction

        Made of reinforced steel with vertical pillars, a roof, and side-door beams, the safety cage is designed to help preserve occupant space in a collision. In addition, front and rear "crush zones" which frame the trunk and engine are designed to compress in a controlled manner in a collision– helping absorb the energy of the crash.

      • Seat-mounted side-impact air bags8

        Mounted in the outer bolsters of the front seats, seat-mounted side-impact air bags are designed to help reduce the risk of head injuries to front-seat occupants on the near side of certain side-impact collisions.

      • SmartBuy

        SmartBuy is a purchase transaction available through dealerships and GMAC that's like a lease because monthly payments can be lower than with traditional financing. However, with SmartBuy you own your vehicle. A balloon payment is due at the end of a SmartBuy contract, but there are several options-including paying the final balloon payment or simply returning the vehicle and paying a disposal fee, plus any applicable excess wear/mileage charges. SmartBuy is available in a limited number of states. Check with your dealer for SmartBuy availability.

      • SmartLease

        SmartLease is a product available through dealerships and GMAC that allows you to pay only for the portion of the vehicle's value (depreciation) you expect to use over a period of time, plus a rent charge, taxes, and fees. You don't own the vehicle; you simply drive it for the term of your lease. At the end of your lease term, you may purchase the vehicle or return it.

      • Solar Ray® deep-tinted glass

        Deep-tinted vehicle glass designed to filter out the sun's rays while still allowing good inward and outward visibility.

      • StabiliTrak® Electronic Stability Control System

        Provides increased vehicle control by continuously monitoring the car's steering angle, individual wheel speed, brake pressure, lateral acceleration and yaw rate. The information is then used to compare the direction the driver is steering with the vehicle's actual path, so the system can make the necessary corrections to help the driver keep the vehicle on path.

      • Steering wheel with Driver Information Center and cruise control

        For easy access, the buttons for cruise control and the Driver Information Center are conveniently mounted on the steering wheel.

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      • TAPshift with paddle-style driver shift controls

        Advanced driving enhancement feature that allows the driver to sequentially shift gears manually via paddle-style shift controls on the steering wheel.

      • Tax

        Depending upon where you live, one or more taxes may be levied on your vehicle purchase. Sales tax, use tax, property tax, and other government fees might be applicable, so be sure to talk to your local department of motor vehicles or vehicle retailer if you have tax questions.

      • Theftlock®

        Theftlock is designed to make a radio inoperable when it is disconnected from its power source (the vehicle battery).

      • Tilt and telescopic steering column

        Mechanism that allows the driver to adjust the height and distance of the steering wheel.

      • Tilt-wheel, adjustable steering column

        Mechanism that allows the driver to adjust the height of the steering wheel.

      • Tire Pressure Monitoring System

        Using a sensor inside each wheel, the Tire Pressure Monitor System senses if a tire is losing air pressure and notifies the driver with a message in the Driver Information Center indicating when a tire is low. Tire Pressure Monitoring does not apply to spare tire.

      • Title

        A legal document that shows ownership. Depending on your state of residency, the fee for the title and the time in which you must obtain title may vary.

      • Tonneau cover

        Vinyl, plastic, or fiberglass cover designed to protect the Solstice cockpit from dust, UV exposure, and light moisture. Allows you the option to drive with the passenger side closed and the driver's side open.

      • Traction Control System

        Uses the brakes and torque intervention to help control wheel spin during acceleration on most types of road surfaces.

      • Trade-in value

        Your trade-in value is how much your current vehicle is worth. This value may be higher or lower depending on the condition of your vehicle, equipment, and local market conditions.

      • Trim level

        Manufacturers often offer several tiers of option packages on a particular vehicle line. These tiers, or "trim levels," allow customers to choose options that best suit their requirements and budgets.

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      • Variable Valve Timing (VVT)

        Advanced engine technology that uses advanced electronics to constantly adjust the camshaft allowing the engine to operate at peak efficiency, maximizing horsepower and torque curves while helping to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy.

      • Vehicle type

        The broad category into which a vehicle falls based on its physical and performance characteristics. Examples of vehicle types include sedans, SUVs, crossovers, and pickup trucks.

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      • Warranty

        The guarantee extended to a vehicle owner from its manufacturer explaining what the owner can expect if a problem or defect should occur. Generally, a warranty document will explain the exact components covered and the duration of coverage in years and/or miles (usually whichever comes first).

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      • XM Radio®9

        XM Radio is standard, including three trial months of service. XM turns your world on with commercial-free music channels from Rock to Jazz, Country to Classical, Latin Pop to Hip Hop, and virtually everything in between, all in amazing digital sound. Turn on your favorite Sports with every Major League Baseball(R) game from Opening Day until the World Series(R) NHL(R) Hockey, the PGA Tour(R) and college football and basketball. Plus, XM brings you the biggest names in news and talk, outrageous comedy, award-winning family programming -- wherever you go from coast to coast. Exclusive live concerts, Oprah & Friends(R), Radio Disney, and so much more. Find what turns you on.