on my dashboard lights a symbol was lite up in gold looked like an engine or engine part what does this mean?

take a pic of the sign and post it

That's your check engine light. Stop in at a local Autozone and get it scanned for free. They will tell you the code(s). Then get back to us about how to fix them.

code 0449 emission vent valve solenoid ?

if the code is 0449 as above.. does the sensor need to be replaced and is it located under the top engine cover ?

Between the gas filler neck and the gas tank there are a few emission and vent parts. (Vent valve - charcoal canister) to get the light to go off you will have to replace the vent valve. Then have the code scanned and cleared. If you live in an area that has to pass an emissions test you will have to take care of this. If you don't then you can keep driving it with the light on, if the light doesn't bother you.

THANKS for the response,, I will have to replace before emission inspections and if i want the remote start to work, it seems that the RVS is locked out when the check engine light is on.

and my vehicle is a 2008 Pontiac Torrent

Yes you are right remote start won't work if the CEL is on or the hood is open. Its a safety thing. Doesn't matter that the vehicle is the vent valve is in pretty much the same spot on all of them