(@ 1-1 The 1997 Buick LeSabre Owner’s Manual Seats and Restraint Systems This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. Tt also explains the “SRS” system. 2-1 Features and Controls This section explains how to start and operate your Buick. 3- 1 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.
We support voluntary technician certification. G[ENERALMOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, B UIC the BUICK Emblem and the name LESABRE are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. 1 This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice. For vehicles first sold in Canada, substitute the name “General Motors of Canada Limited” forBuick Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual.
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&tee. its beginnings to 1903. That was the year the compmy was reorganized, refinzmceda d moved from Detroit to Flint. Buick has always been a product innovator. Buick engineers developed the iv William C .
Durant also created a racing team that won 500 racing trophies in 1909 and 1910, including successes at Indianapolis two years before the Indy 500 began. The success of Buick engines was visible not only on the race track, but in endurance tests across the country and around the world. Buick was the only car to complete a 1,000-mile Chicago-to-New York race in 1906. And a Buick was the first car to travel across South America, driven from Buenos Aires,Argentina, over the Andes to Santiago, Chilein 1914.
In World War 11, Buick built aircraft engines, tanks and other military hardware. This post-war period brought great stylingand engineering changeswhich resulted in increased sales. The torque converter automatic transmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948 Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” camealong in 1949. A high-compression V-8 engine was introduced in 1953. And Buick’s famous vertical pillar “toothy” grille (introduced in1942)became more massive in the post-war era.
I962 Bcrick Special Ed M u - t z , General Manager-,Brrick Motor Division Built inside the walls of the old buildings in Buick’s former Flint complex, which formed the cornerstone of General Motors, Buick City is a state-of-the-art assembly facility with more than 200 robots and other high-tech equipment. It was completed in the fall of 1985.
How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly. Index A good place to look for what you need is the Index in the back of the manual. It’s an alphabetical list of all that’s in the manual, and the page number where you’ll find it.
Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: I NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly. But the notice will tell you what to do to help avoid the damage. When you read other manuals, you might see CAUTION and NOTICE warningsin different colors or in different words.
Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. For example.
Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Buick and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.
Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them -- and also about reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat You can lose controlof the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving. The sudden movement could startleand confuse you, or make you push a pedal when you don’t want to. Adjustthe driver’s seat only when the vehicle is not moving. 1-2 Pull up on the control bar under the front of the seat to unlock it.
Power Seat (If Equipped) Front Control: Raise the front of the seat by pushing the left side of the switch. Push the right side of the switch to lower the front of the seat. Center Control: Move the seat forward or backward by pushing the control on the front or back. Raise the seat by pushing the control on the left. Lower the seat by pushing the control on the right. Rear Control: Raise the rear of the seat by pushing the switch on the left. Lower the rear of the seat by pushing the switch on the right.
Reclining Front Seatbacks To adjust the seatback, lift the leveron the outer side of the seat and move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock theseatback. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to an upright position. But don’t have a seatback reclinedif your vehicle is moving. Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous.
CAUTION: (Continuea) up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against yourbody. Instead, itwill be in front of you. In a crash you could go into it, receiving neck or other injuries. The lapbelt can’t do its job either. aIncrash the belt could go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, notat your pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries.
In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. CAUTION: It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outsideof a vehicle. I n a collision, people riding in these areas are more likely to be seriously injured or killed. Do not allow people to ride in any areaof your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is ina seat and usinga safety belt properly.
I Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's justa seat on wheels. Put someone on it.
Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. 1-8 The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
or the instrument panel ... or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow downas the vehicle does. You get more time tostop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make suchgood sense.
Here Are Questions Many PeopleAsk About Safety Belts-- and the Answers Q: Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? A: You could be -- whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down. And your chance of being conscious during and after an accident, so you can unbuckle and get out, is n~uchgreater if you are belted.
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies.If a child will be riding inyour Buick, see the part of this manual called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has. We’ll start with the driver position.
The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’dbe less llkely to slide under the lap belt.If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.The shoulder belt should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts of the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or crash.
Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. 1 ~ To move it down, squeeze the release handle and move the height adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster up just by pushing up on the bottom of the release handle. After you move the adjuster to where you want it, try to move it down without squeezing the release handle to make sure it has locked into position.
@ What's wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body. A: The shoulder belt is too loose. It won't give nearly as much protection this way.
@ What’s wrong with this? A CAUTION: You can be seriouslyinjured if your belt is buckled in the wrong place like this.In a crash, the belt would goup over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones. This could cause serious internal injuries. Always buckle your belt into the buckle nearest you. A: The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
e.' What's wrong with this? You can be seriously injuredif you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. aIncrash, your body would movetoo far forward, whichwould increase the chanceof head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren't as strongas shoulder bones. You could also severely injure internal organs like your liver or spleen. A: The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times.
Q.’ What’s wrong with this? You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt.In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly,or ask your dealer tofix it. I J A: The belt is twisted across the body.
.. Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone,including pregnant women. Like alloccupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. To unlatch the belt, just pushthe button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the you can damageboth the way. If you slam the door on it, belt and yourvehicle.
The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly. Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Position,’’ earlier in this section. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock.
Air bags inflate with a t force, faster than the blink of a n eye. If you’re too closeto an inflating air bag, it could seriously injureyou. Safety belts help keep you in position beforeand duringa crash. Always wear your safety belt, even withair bags. The driver should sitas far back aspossible while still maintaining controlof the vehicle. AC UTION: An inflating air bag can seriously injure small children. Always secure children properly in your vehicle.
How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel.
I A CAUTION: If something is between an occupant and anair bag, the bag may notinflate properly or it might force the objectinto that person. The pathof an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering. it can be somewhat above or below this range.
How does an air bag restrain? In moderate to severe frontalor near-frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection provided by safety belts. Air bags distribute the force of the impact more evenly over the occupant’s upper body, stopping the occupant more gradually.
0 Let only qualified technicians work on your air bag system. Improper service can mean that your air bag system won’t work properly. See your dealer for service. NOTICE: If you damage the covering for the driver’s or the right front passenger’sair bag, the bag may not work properly. You may have to replace theair bag module in the steering wheel or both the air bag module and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’sair bag. Do not open or break the air bag coverings.
Center Passenger Position Lap Belt If your vehicle has front and rearbench seats, someone can sit in the center positions. When you sit in a center seatingposition, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat arehurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash. And they can strike others in the vehicle who are wearing safety belts. To make the belt shorter, pull its freeend as shown until the belt is snug.
Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions Lap-Shoulder Belt The positions nextto the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks.
If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt is not long enough, see“Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder part.
-1 You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you wouldmove forward too much, which could increase injury.The shoulder belt should against yourfit body. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you'd be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen. This could cause serious or even fatal injuries.
Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. Wheninstalled on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head. There is one guide for each outside passenger position in the rear seat.
1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of the seatback and the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip. CI 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.
3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elasticcord must be under thebelt and the guide on top. 1-32 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier inthis section. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder.
To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them outfrom the Smslaer Children andBabies guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guideonto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward andin between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed. I A CAUTION: Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all childrensmaller than adult size.
at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly becomea 240-lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The babywould be almost impossible to hold. Secure the babyin an infant restraint. ~~ Never hold a baby in your armswhile riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much until a crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t holdit.
Child Restraints Be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructionson the restraintitself or in a booklet, or both. Theserestraints use the belt system in your vehicle, but the child also has to be secured within the restraint to help reduce the chance of personal injury.
Top Strap A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injuredby the right front passenger air bagif it inflates. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always betterto secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back.
Canadian law requires that child restraints have a top 3. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap shoulder and strap, and that the strap be anchored. portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint.The child restraint instructions If your child restraint has a top strap, your dealer can will show you how. obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The In Canada, dealer can then install the anchor for you.
5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 6. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Center Rear Seat Position U You’ll be using the lap belt. A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injuredby the right front passenger air bagif it inflates. Never securea child restraint in the center front seat. It’s always better to secure a child restraint in the rear seat. You may, however, secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front passenger seat, but only with the seat moved all the way back.
6. To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint. 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. If it isn’t, secure the restraint in a different place in the vehicle and contact the child restraint maker for their advice about how to attach the child restraint properly. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. Tt will be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. 5. Buckle the belt.
Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Position You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Because your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag, always move the seat as far back as it will go before securing a forward-facingchild restraint. (See “Seats’’ in the Index.) 2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint. U Your vehicle has a right front passenger airbag. Never.
5. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-42 6. Pull the rest of the lap belt all theway out of the retractor to set the lock.
Larger Children 7. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. 8. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle's safety belts. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle's safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
Accident statisticsshow that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need touse the safety belts properly. Children who aren’t buckled up can be thrown out in a crash. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are. 1-44 Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt. The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, thetwo children can be crushed together and seriously injured.A belt must be used by only one personat a time.
A CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that hasa lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash thechild might slide under thebelt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen. That could cause serious or fatal injuries. Wherever the child sits, the lap portion of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips,just touching the child’s thighs.
Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten,your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it., take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you. The extender will be just for you, and just for the seat in your vehicle that you choose. Don’t let someone elseuse it, and use it only for the seat it is made to fit.
& NOTES 1-47
,@% NOTES 1-48
Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Buick, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly -- and what to do if you have a problem.
Keys Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injuredor even killed. They could operate power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don't leave the keys in a vehicle with young children.
The ignition keys are for the ignition only. When a new LeSabre is delivered, the dealer removes the plugs from the keys, and gives them to the first owner. However, the ignition key may not have a plug. If the ignition key doesn’t have a plug, it will have a bar-coded key tag. Each plug or tag has a code on it that tells your dealer or a qualified locksmith how to make extra keys. Keep the plugs or the tags in a safe place.
From the outside, use your door keyor Remote Keyless Entry transmitter (if equipped). With your door key, turning the keytoward the rear of the vehicle will lock the door. Turning the key toward the front of the vehicle Door Locks will unlock it. Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle.
Power Door Locks Memory Door Locks (If Equipped) With power door locks, you can lock or unlock all the doors of your vehicle using the driver’s or front passenger’s door lock switch. Close your- doors and turn on the ignition. Every time you move your shift lever out of PARK (P), all of the doors will lock. And, every time you stop and move your shift lever into PARK (P), your doors will unlock. If someone needs to get out while you’re not i n PARK (P), have that person use the manual or power lock.
Personal Choice Programming Use the following procedure to change modes: If your vehicle is equipped with remote keyless entry, you can program the memory door locks feature to change to the following modes: 1. Close all doors and turn the ignition on. Keep all doors closed throughout this procedure. Mode 0 1 2 3 Operation No automatic door lock or unlock. All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock. All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P).
Delayed Locking (If-Equipped) To turn the feature on: This feature letsthe driver delay the actual locking of the vehicle. When the power door lock switch is pressed with the key removed from the ignition, and the driver’s door open, a chimewill sound three times to signal that delayed locking is active. When all doors have been closed, the doors will lock automatically after five seconds. If any door is opened before this, the five-second timer will reset itself once all the doors have been closed again.
Rear Door Security Lock Your LeSabre is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside. ‘ I A The rear doors of your vehicle cannot be opened from the inside when this feature is in use. If you want to open a rear door when the security lock is on: I . Unlock the door. 2. Then open the door from the outside.
Lockout Protection The power door locks will not work if the key is left in the ignition with the driver’s door open. You can override this feature by holding the power door lock switch for more than three seconds, unless the engine is running. Leaving Your Vehicle If you are leaving the vehicle, take your keys, openyour door and set the locks fromthe inside. Then get outand close the door. Or, you may also use the lock button on the remote keyless entry transmitterafter shutting the doors.
Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment. This system has a range of about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m). At times you may notice a decrease in range. This is normal for any remote keyless entry system. If the transmitter does notwork or if you have to stand closer to your vehicle for the transmitter to work, try this: 0 0 0 Check to determine if battery replacement is necessary.
Security Feedback This feature provides feedback to the driver when the vehicle receives a command fromthe key transmitter. One of the following modes may be selected for each transmitter: Mode 0 1 2 3 4 5 Security Feedback No feedback when locking or unlocking vehicle. No feedback when locking; exterior lamps flash when unlocking vehicle. Exterior lamps flash when locking; no feedback when unlocking vehicle. Exterior lamps flash when lockingand unlocking vehicle.
0 0 Delayed Locking: This feature lets the driver delay the actual locking of the vehicle. When all doors have been closed, the doors will lock automatically after five seconds. Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about two years. Perimeter Lighting: When the UNLOCK button on the key transmitter is pressed, the headlamps, parking lamps, back-up lampsand cornering lamps will turn on.
To replace the battery: Trunk 1. Insert a coin into the notch near the keyring. Turn the coin counterclockwise to separate the twohalves of the transmitter. Trunk Lock Release 2. Once the transmitter is separated, use a pencil to remove the old battery. Do not use a metal object. 3. Remove and replace the battery. Replace it as the instructions inside the cover indicate. 4. Snap the transmitter back together tightly to be sure no moisture can enter. 5.
Remote Trunk Release Lockout The trunk release lockout switch in the glove box must be on for the TRUNK button to work. This feature allows you to secure items in the trunk when you must leave the ignition key with an attendant. To secure the trunk, turn off the TRUNK RELEASE, lock the glove box, then take the door key with you. Now the trunk button to the left of the steering column will not open the trunk.
Theft Parking Lots Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your Buick has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal. However,there are ways you can help. If you park in a lot where someone will be watching your vehicle, it’s best to lock it up and take your keys.
Universal Theft-Deterrent (If Equipped) SECURITY If your Buick has this option, it has a theft-deterrent alarm system. With this system, the SECURITY light will flash as you open the door (if your ignition is off). This light reminds you to activate the theft-deterrent system when leaving your vehicle. Activating the system: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch while the door is open, or with the RemoteKeyless Entry transmitter. The SECURITY light should turn on and stay on.
Testing the Alarm PASS-Key@I1 The alarm can be tested by first havingthe driver’s window down. Activate the systemby locking the doors with the power door lock switch while the door is open, or with the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter. Get out of the vehicle, close the door and wait for the SECURITY light togo out. Then reachin.through thewindow, unlock the door with the manual door lock and open the door. This should setoff the alarm.
The ignition key must be clean and dry before it’s inserted in the ignition or the enginemay not start. If the engine doesnot start and the SECURITY light turns on, the key may be dirty or wet. Turn the ignition off. Clean and dry the key. Wait about three minutes and try again. Tf the starter still won’t work, and the key appears to be clean and dry, wait about three minutes and try another ignition key. At this time, you may also want to check the fuse (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index).
New Vehicle “Break-In” With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five different positions. NOTICE: Your modern Buick doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: Don’t drive at any one speed fast or slow for the first500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time your new brake linings aren’t yet broken in.
LOCK (B): This is the only position in which you can remove the key. This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’sa theft-deterrent feature. OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like LOCK and it doesn’t send any electrical power to the accessories. Use OFF if you must have your vehicle in motion while the engine is not running.
Starting Your Engine Move your shift lever to PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (Nj. Your engine won’t start in any other position -- that’s a safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. 1 NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Buick is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped. 1. Without pushing the accelerator pedal, turn your ignition key to START. When the engine starts, let go of the key.
NOTICE: Engine Coolant Heater (Option) Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in yourvehicle. If you add electrical parts oraccessories, you could change the way the engine operates. Before adding electrical equipment, check with yourdealer. If you don’t, your engine might not perform properly. If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see the part of this manual thattells how to do it without damaging yourvehicle. See “Towing Your Vehicle” in the Index.
To Use the Coolant Heater 1. Turn off the engine. 2. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 110-volt AC outlet. I Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock. Also, the wrong kind of extension cord could overheat and cause a fire. You could be seriously injured. Plug the cord into a properly grounded three-prong 110-volt AC outlet. If the cord won’t reach, use a heavy-duty three-prong extension cord rated for at least 15 amps. 4.
PARK (P): This locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. It is dangerous to get outof your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully inPARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unlessyou have to. If you have left the engine running, thevehicle can move suddenly. You or otherscould be injured.
NEUTRAL (N): In this position, your engine doesn’t connect with the wheels. To restart when you’re already moving, use NEUTRAL (N) only. Also, use NEUTRAL (N) when your vehicle is being towed. - AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@):This position is for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: 0 Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. u 1IC‘i: - Shifting outof PARK (P) or NEUTRAL(N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous.
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. NOTICE: Don’t drive in SECOND (2) for more than5 miles (8 km), or atspeeds over 55 mph (88 k d h ) , o ryou can damage your transaxle.Use AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (@)or THIRD (3) as much as possible.
Pa 1 . This vehicle has a PUSH TO RELEASE parking brake pedal. To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. If the ignition is on, the brake system warning light will turn on and a single chimewill be heard. The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot. Thiswill unlock the pedal.
Shifting Into PARK (P) /h CAU 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: ION: It can be dangerous to get of outyour vehicle if the shift leveris not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. Your vehiclecan roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.You or others could be injured. To be sure your vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairlylevel ground, use the steps that follow. If you’re pulling a trailer, see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. 1.
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with Move the lever up as far as it will go. the engine running. Yourvehicle could move suddenly if the shift leveris not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmlyset. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running,it could You or otherscould overheat and even catch fire. be injured. Don’t leave your vehicle with the engine running unlessyou have to. 3. Turn the ignition key to LOCK. 4.
Torque Lock Shifting Out of PARK (P) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the Your Buick has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You have to fully apply your regular brake hefor-c you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in the RUN position. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index. vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).
Parking Over Things That Burn Things mat can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under yourvehicle and ignite.Don’t park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. Engine Exhaust Engine exhaust cankill. It contains thegas carbon monoxide(CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: 0 Your exhaust system sounds strange or different. Your vehicle gets rusty underneath. 0 Your vehicle was damaged in a collision.
Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the enginerunning. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”). Also, idling in a closed-in place can let deadly carbon monoxide(CO) into your vehicle even if the fan switch is at the highest setting. One place this can happenis a garage.
Windows Power Windows Express-Down Window The switch for the driver’s window has an express-down feature. Pull the switch back all the way, release it and the window will lower automatically. To stop the window from lowering, pull the switch again. To partially open the window, pull the switch back and quickly release it. To raise the window, hold the switch forward. Window Lock Press the LOCK switch on the driver’s armrest to disable all passenger window switches.
Tilt Whc,, Turn SgnaUMultifunction Lever A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: You can also raise it to the highest level togive your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.
Tur-nand Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. If the arrows just stay on and don’t flash as you signal a turn or a lane change, a signal bulb may be burned out and other drivers won’tsee your turn signal. If a bulb is burned out, replace it to help avoid an accident. If the arrows don’t go on at all when you To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down.
Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer Windshield Wipers To change the headlamps from low beam to high beam or high beam to low beam, pull the turn signal lever toward you and release it. When the high beams are on, this light on the instrument panel will also be on. The windshield wipers are controlled by turning the band marked WIPER.
For a single wiping cycle, turn the band to MIST. Hold it there until the wipers start, then let go. The wipers will stop after one cycle.If you want more cycles, hold the band on MISTlonger. For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band away from you to the LO position. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, toHI. To stop the wipers, move the band toOFF. The wiper speedmay be set for a longor short delay between wipes. This canbe very useful in light rain or snow.
1 Cruise Control (If Equipped) With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keepingyour foot on the accelerator. This can really help on longtrips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, the cruise control shuts off. 2-38 I Cruise control can be dangerous where you can’t drive safelyat a steady speed.So, don’t use your cruise control on winding roads or in heavy traffic.
Resuming a Set Speed Setting Cruise Control Suppose you set your cruise controlat a desired speed and then you apply the brake. This,of course, shutsoff the cruise control. But you don’t needto reset it. I If you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hita button and go into cruisewhen you don’twant to. You could bestartled and even losecontrol. Keep the cruise controlswitch OFF until you want to use it.
Increasing Speed While Using Cruise Control Reducing Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to go to a higher speed: There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. Push the button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal. You’ll now cruise at the higher speed. e Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch.
Using Cruise Control onHills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down. Applying the brake or shifting into a lowergear will take you out of cruise control.
Lamps On Reminder If you leave the manual headlamp or parking lamp switch on, remove the key from the ignition and open the driver’s door, you will hear a continuous warning chime. The chime will turn off when the lamps are turned off. Daytime Running Lamps Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset.
Twi 2ht Ser Twilight sentinel turns your lamps on and off by sensing how dark it is outside. To operate it, leave the lamp switch off. If you move the control all the way to MAX, your lamps will remain on for three minutes after you turn off your engine. As you move the control toward MIN, the lamps will turn off more quickly when you turn off your engine. You can change this delay time from only a few seconds to three minutes.
Interior Lamps Courtesy Lamps Instrument Panel Intensity/Brightness Control When any door is opened, several lamps go on. They make it easy for you to enter and leave the vehicle. You can also turn these lamps on by sliding the PANEL LIGHTS switch to INT (Interior). 1 The instrument panel intensity can be adjusted by moving this lever between LO and HI. The instrument panel lights will be on only when the headlamps are on.
Illuminated Entry (If Equipped) Press the UNLOCK button on the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter (if equipped) and the interior courtesy lamps will turn on and stay on for up to a minute. The lamps will turn off immediately by pressing the LOCK button on the key transmitter, starting the engine or activating the power door locks.
Front Reading Lamps (If Equipped) Rear Reading Lamps(If Equipped) Front seat reading lamps areturned on or off by pressing the LAMP switch. The lamp, switch and a coat hanger are above each rear door. Slide the switchto turn the lampon or off.
Battery Rundown Protection Mirrors This feature turns off the courtesy, reading, trunk, glove box and visor vanity mirror lamps, if any are left on for more than 10 minutes when the ignition is OFF. This will keep your battery from running down. Day/Night Manual Rearview Mirror This feature also shuts off the exterior lamps if they are left on for more than 10 minutes when the ignition is OFF.
Day/Night Manual Rearview Mirror With Integral Reading Lamps (If Equipped) Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror (If Equipped) Your Buick may have an automatic electrochromic day/night rearviewmirror. When you are sitting in a comfortable driving position, adjust the mirrorso you can see clearly behind your the vehicle. The day-night adjustment allows you to adjust mirror to avoid glare from the headlamps behind you.
At night, when the glare is too high, the mirror will gradually darken to reduce glare (this changemay take a seconds). few The mirror will return to its clear daytime sidereduced. is state glare when the Manual Remote Control Mirror To adjust the driver’s mirror, rotate the knob located on the driver’s door. The right outside mirror must be adjusted manually. Press the button at the base of the mirror to turn on the automatic feature. Thebutton has an indicator light to show it is on.
Power Remote Control Mirrors (If Equipped) If your Buick has the outside power remote mirrors, the control is located on the driver’s door. Automatic Dimming Outside Rearview Mirror (If Equipped) If you have this feature, the driver’s side outsidemirror will adjust for the glare of headlamps behind you. This feature is controlled by the on and off settings on the automatic electrochromic day/night rearview mirror. See “Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror’’ earlier in this section.
-1 CenterConsoleCupholdedCoinholder A convex mirror can make things (like other vehicles) look farther away than they reallyare. If you cuttoo sharply into the right lane, you could hit a vehicle on your right. Check your inside mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes. Storage Compartments Glove Box Use the door key to lock and unlock the gloveTobox. open, lift the latch release on the left side of the glove box door. The armrest between the front seats opens into storage a area.
Convenience Net (If Equipped) Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter The front center and rear ashtrays may be removed for cleaning. Hold the sides of the ashtray and then pull the ashtray up and out. NOTICE: Don’t put papers or other flammable objects into your ashtrays. Hot cigarettesor other smoking materials couldignite them, causinga damaging fire. To use a lighter, push the center all the way in and let it go. When i t is ready, the center will pop back by itself. Pull out the entire unit to use it.
Sun Visors Dual Sun Visors Each sunvisor has two parts,so that both thewindshield and door glass can be shaded at the sametime. There is also a tinted transparent extension that may be pulled out from the outer sun visor. Illuminated Visor Vanity Mirrors (If Equipped) When you open the cover to either the passenger’s or driver’s visor vanity mirror, the lamps willturn on. The brightness of the lamp canbe adjusted by sliding the switch up or down.
Instrument Panel 2-54
1 . Air Outlet 10. Glove Box 2. Instrument Panel Intensity Control 11. Climate Control System 3. Twilight Sentinel 12. Ashtray and Cigarette Lighter 4. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever 13. Ignition Switch 5. Tilt Steering Wheel Lever 14. Driver’s Side SRS (Air Bag) and Horn ti. Instrument Cluster/Gages 15. Traction Control Button 7. Hazard Warning Flasher Switch 16. Trunk Release Button 8. Audio System 17. Hood Release 9.
Instrument Panel Clusters Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, how much fuel you’re using, and many other things you’ll need to drive safely and economically. Your Buick is equipped with one of these instrument panel clusters, which includes indicator warning lights and gages that are explained on the following pages.
8 8 l8 0 0 0 On0 000 0 I Gage Cluster 2-57
Speedometer and Odometer Tachometer (If Equipped) Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer showshow far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). ~ Your Buick has a tamper resistant odometer. If you see bright silver lines between the numbers, you’ll know that someone has probably tried to turn it back. The numbers may not be true.
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement. Payingattention to your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights come on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions.
Air Bag Readiness Light There is an airbag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag’s electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. Thesystem check includes the air bag sensors, the air bag modules, the wiring and the crash sensing and diagnostic module. For moreinformation on the air bag system, see “Air Bag” inthe Index.
Battery System Warning Light When you turn the key to RUN, this light will turn on briefly, to show that your generator and battery charging systems are working. Voltage Indicator (If Equipped) If your vehicle is equipped with the gage cluster, this gage shows voltage in the electrical system. 8 18 VOLT If the light stays on, you need service and you should take your Buick to the dealer at once.
Brake System Warning Light Your Buick’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well, If the warning light comes on, there could be a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away. BRAKE This light should come on when you turn the key to START. If it doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem.
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti-lock brake system, the light(s) will come on when you start your engine and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal. If the light stays on, turn the ignition to OFF. Or, if the light comes on when you’re driving, stop as soon as possible and turn the ignition off. Then start the engine again to reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving,your Buick needs service.
Traction Control System Warning Light (Option) I TRACTION OFF This warning light should come on briefly as you start the engine. If the warning light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be ready to warn you if there’s a problem. If it stays on, or comes on when you’re driving, there may be a problem with your traction control system and your vehicle may need service. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin. Adjust your driving accordingly.
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light This light will tell you that your engine coolanthas overheated or your radiator cooling fans are not working. TEMP If you have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn the engine off as soon as possible. In the section “Problems on the Road,” this manual explains what to do. See “Engine Overheating”in the Index.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) NOTICE: Your Buick is equipped with a comphter which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. If you keep driving your vehicle with this light on, after a while, your emission controls may not work as well, your fuel economy may not be as good and your engine may not run as smoothly. This could lead to costly repairs that may not be covered by your warranty.
If the Light Is Flashing The following mayprevent more serious damage to your vehicle: Reducing vehicle speed. Avoiding hard accelerations. 0 Avoiding steep uphill grades. 0 If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible. If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady” following. If the light continues to flash,when it is safe to do so, stop tiw sel?ic.le. Find a safe place to park your vehicle.
Oil Pressure Light/Gage If you’re “idling” at a stop sign, the light may blink on and then off. If you make a hard stop, the light may come on for a moment. e3 But, when this light c o m s on and stays on, it means oil isn’t going through your engine properly. You could be low on oil, or you might have some other oil problem. See your dealer for service. OIL Standard Cluster Gage Cluster One of these lights will tell you that there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure.
Check Oil Level Light (If Equipped) CHECK I LEVEL The CHECK OIL LEVEL light turns on for three seconds as a bulb check each time the ignition key is turned to the RUN position. If the light doesn’t turn on, have your vehicle serviced. If the engine oil is more than one quart (0.95 L) low and the engine has been shut off for at least eight minutes, the CHECK OIL LEVEL LIGHTwill turn on for about one minute and will then remain off until the next time you start the vehicle.
When to change your oil depends on driving habits and conditions because these directly affect engine speed, coolant temperature and vehicle speed. Because of this, the CHANGE OIL SOON light may turn on as early as 2,000 miles (3 218 km) or lessfor harsh circumstances. The CHANGE OIL SOON light is lit for five seconds as abulb check each time the ignition key is turned to the RUN position.
Fuel Gage o\\‘ \ 0 It takes a little more or less fuel to fill up than the gage indicated. For example, the gage may have indicated the tank was half full, but it actually took a little more or less than half the tank’s capacity to fill the tank. 0 The gagemoves a little when you turn a corner, speed up, or make a hard stop. 0 The gage doesn’t go back to EMPTY (E) when you turn off the ignition.
b 2-72 NOTES
(@ Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your Buick. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle.
CC kt Controls This section describes how to operate your climate control system. Your climate control system uses ozone-friendly R- 134a refrigerant. With these systems, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your Buick. Your vehicle also has a flow-through ventilation system described later in this section. Electronic ' uch Clin te Control Fan tton The FAN control is used to select the speed of the blower fan and the force of air you want. There are four speeds to choose from.
VENT This setting directs outside air through the middle instrument panel outlets. The air conditioning compressor is not working when VENT is selected. NORM: This setting cools the outside air entering your vehicle and directs it through the middle instrument panel outlets. The air conditioner ison in this mode. HTR: This button directs air out of the heater outlets. Most of the air will come fromthe floor outlets while some air will flow through the windshield and side window outlets.
Temperature Button To adjust the comfort level you want maintained inside the vehicle, push the TEMP button. If you want a warmer comfort level, push the red arrow. If you want a cooler comfort level, pushthe blue arrow. Your comfort setting is shown in the display. If the display is flashing after the climate control system is started, there is a problem with the system and you should see your dealer for service.
Automatic Operation Manual Operation Press the AUTO button when you want the system to automatically adjust to changes in the temperature inside the vehicle, the outside temperature and the sun load on the vehicle. When the system is set for automatic operation, air will come from the floor, middle or windshield outlets depending on the temperature inside the vehicle, the outside temperature and sun load.
OFF: If the passenger comfort control is turned on, it can be turned off by pressing the OFF button once. Pressing the OFF button a second time will turn off the main system. Turning off the main system causes the fan to turn off and the airflow to be directed to the FLOOR. The system will still try to keep the interior of the vehicle at the previous chosen comfort setting. The outside temperature will show on the display when the system is OFF.
Air Conditioning On hot days, open the windows long enough to let hot inside air escape. This reduces the time it takes for your vehicle to cool down. Then keepyour windows closed for the air conditioner towork its best. If you have the electronic touch system, forquick cool-down on very hot days, use MAX with the temperature and fan speed adjusted to COOL and HIGH. If this setting is used for long periods of time, the air in your vehicle may become too cold and dry.
Heating Ventilation System If your vehicle has the electronic touch system, on cold days, use HTR with the TEMPERATURE lever toward WARM. For mild outside temperatures when little heating or cooling is needed, use VENT (on the electronic touch system or manual operation of the Dual Automatic Comfortemp system) to direct outside air through your vehicle. Air will flow through the middle instrument panel outlets.
0 When the engine idles for a long time,the exterior temperature sensor may cause the system to blow air that is too cool. Oncethe vehicle is moving again, the system will try to maintain the set temperature inside your vehicle. 0 When you start your vehicle and the EXT display flashes (Dual Automatic Comfortemp systemonly) for some time, the system may need repair. See your Buick dealer.
To reduce the chance of fogging your windows in cold weather, using the electronic touch system, select HTR to supply air through the floor outlets.Then move the FAN lever to HIGH for a few moments before driving away. This will blow moist air from the intake outlets toward the floor, not the windshield. If you have the Dual Automatic Cornfortemp system, the AUTO setting will do this for you.
Passenger Control I If you have the Dual Automatic Comfortemp system, the front seat- passenger can control the Steering Wheel Controls for Climate Control (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, you can control the temperature functionby using the button on your steering wheel. Press the TEMP up arrow to increase the temperature and the TEMP down arrow to decrease thetemperature. The temperature can be set up to 5 O F (- 15O C ) cooler or warmer thanthe primary setting.
Audio Systems AM-FM Stereo Your DelcoB audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sureyou’re getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it. Setting the Clock Press and hold HRS until the correct hour appears. Press and hold MIN until the correct minute appears.
RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes. If you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FMl and six FM2).
Setting the Tone AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the decrease bass. knob to increase 01' TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. Push these knobs back into their stored positions when you're not using them. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn the control behind the upper knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers.
RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes. If you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM 1 and six FM2).
Setting the Tone BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease bass. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble.If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble. While the tape is playing, use the VOLUME, FADE, BAL, BASS and TREB controls just as you do forthe radio. Other controls may have different functions when a tape is inserted.
PREV (1): Press this button to search for the previous selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for PREV to work. The sound will mute while seeking. NEXT (2): Press this button to search for the next selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT to work. The sound will mute while seeking. The SEEK left and right arrows will also find the previous and next selections onthe tape. ..
AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player and Automatic Tone Control RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press this button until you see the display you want, then hold the button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM 1 and FM2.
PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FM I and six FM2). Just: 1. Turn the radio on. band (AM or FM)you are listening to). AUTO SET will flash while seeking and will remain on until this function is complete. To return to the stations you manually set, press AUTO SET again. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. Setting the Tone 3. Tune in the desired station. BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends.
Adjusting the Speakers Your tape bias is set automatically. BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. lf E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob tomove the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
NEXT (2): Press this button to search for the next AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT to work. The sound will mute while seeking. tape is in the player. The SEEK up and down arrows will also find the previous and next selections on the tape. 44 (3): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape reverses.
AM-FM Stereo with Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the button until you see the display you want, then hold the button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between AM, FM1 and FM2.
PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let 1. Turn the radio on. band (AM or FM) you are listening to). AUTO SET will flash while seeking and will remain on until this function is complete. To return to the stations you manually set, press AUTO SET again. 2. Press AM-FM to select the band. Setting the Tone 3. Tune in the desired station. BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the you return to your favorite stations.You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FMl and six FM2). Just: 4.
Adjusting the Speakers 0 E20: It is dirty, scratched or wet. BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn this knob to move the sound to the le,ft or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. 0 E20: There’s too much moisture in the air. (Wait about an hour and try again.) FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn this knob to move the sound to the front or rear speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
RAND (6): Press this button to hear the tracks in random, rather than sequential, order. Press RAND again to turn off random play. AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player and Automatic Tone Control RECALL: Press this button to see which track is playing. Press it again within five seconds to seehow long it has been playing.
RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the RECALL button until you see the display you want, then hold the RECALL button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds. PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to Finding a Station 4.
AUTO SET Press this button and the system will seek and set the 12 strongest FM or the 6 strongest AM stations on your preset buttons. AUTO SET will flash while seeking and will remain on until this function is complete. To return to the stations you manually set, press AUTO SET again. Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers.
If you want to insert a tape when the ignition or radio is off, first press EJECT or RECALL. Your tape bias is set automatically. If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error. ElO: The tape is tight and the player can’t turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil. Turn the tape over and repeat.
EJECT: The system has two EJECT buttons. Press the button near the CD slot to remove a disc. Press the button near the tape slot to remove a tape and the radio will play. If you leave a cassette tape in the player while listening to the radio, it may become warm. CLN: If this message appears on the display, the cassette tape player needs to be cleaned. It will still play tapes, but you should clean it as soon as possible to prevent damage to the tapes and player.
NEXT (2): Press this button to go tothe next track. If you hold the button or press it more than once, the player will continue moving forward through the disc. The sound will mute while seeking. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a disc is in the player. 44 (3): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse within a track. You will hear sound. SOURCE: Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on. When adisc is inserted, the disc will play until you press AM-FM.
Theft-Deterrent Feature THEFTLOCK is designed to discourage theft of your radio. It works by using a secret code to disable all radio functions whenever battery power is removed. TM If THEFTLOCK is active, the THEFTLOCK indicator will flash when the ignition is off. The THEFTLOCK featurefor the radio may be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally and the radio is not protected by the feature. If THEFTLOCK is activated, your radiowill not operate if stolen.
Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. LOC appears when the ignition is on. 2. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display. 3. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree with your code. 4. Press HRS to make the first one ortwo digits agree with your code. 5. Press AM-FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down.
Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped) If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel. Some steering wheel controls may operate climate controls. See “Steering Wheel Controls for Climate Control” earlier in this section. SEEK: Press this button to go to the next higher or lower radio station. Press and hold this button again for two seconds and SCAN will appear. Press it again to stop scanning.
Understanding Radio Reception FM Stt?m;.eo FM stereo will give you the best sound. But FM signals will reach only about 10 to 40 miles ( 16 to 65 km). Tall buildings or hills can interfere with FM signals,causing the sound to come and go. AM The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other. AM can pick up noise from things like storms and power lines.
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape playcr that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or adamaged mechanism. Cassette tapesshould be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight and extreme heat. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player. Your tape player should be cleaned regularly after every SO hours of use.
Heated Backlite Antenna Your AM-FM antenna is integrated with your rear window defogger, into your rear window. Be sure that the inside surface of the rear window is not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not damaged. If the inside surface is damaged, it could interfere with radio reception. Do not try to clear frost or other material from the inside of the rear window with an ice scraper, credit card or other hard object.
b%) NOTES 3-37
&azo 3-38 NOTES
Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find informationabout driving on differentkinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving.
Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your Buick: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.) Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways,it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do. Be ready for their mistakes.
ueath and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributorto the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. The obvious way to solve this highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” if the driver plans to drive? It’s a lot less than many might think. Although it depends on each person and situation, here is some general information on the problem.
woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law i n many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent. In a growing number of U S . states, and throughout Canada, the limit is 0.08 percent. In some other countries, it’s even lower. The BAC limit for all commercial drivers in the United States is 0.04 percent. The BAC will be over 0.10 percent after three to six drinks (in one hour).
The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderateBAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision. There’s something elseabout drinking and driving that many people don’t know.
~ ~ Braking Brakingactioninvolves perception time and reaction time. First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal. That’s perception time. Then you have to bring upyour foot and doit. That’s reaction time. Sometimes, as when you’re driving onsnow or ice,it’s of those control systems than the tires easy to ask more and road can provide. That means you can lose control of your vehicle. 4-6 Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But that’s only an average.
Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drivein spurts -- heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking. If you keep pace with the traffic and allow realistic following distances, you will eliminate a lot of unnecessary braking. That means better braking and longer brake life.
~~ r ~~ ~ ~~~ -~ ~~~~ ~ ~~~ The anti-lock systemcan change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to makethe most of available tireand road conditions. Here’s how anti-lock works.Let’s say the roadis wet. in You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens withABS. A computer sensesthat wheels are slowing down.
Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance.If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops. Always leave enough room up ahead to stop, even though you have anti-lock brakes. If your vehicle is in cruise control when the traction control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage.
The traction control system automatically comes on whenever you start your vehicle. To limit wheel spin, especially in slippery road conditions, you should always leave the system on. But you can turn the traction control system off if you ever need to. (You should turn the system off if your vehicle ever getsstuck in sand, mud, ice or snow. See “Rocking Your Vehicle” in the Index.) To turn the system off, press the TRACTION CONTROL button on the instrument panel to the left of the steering wheel.
Steering Tips Driving on Curves It’s important to take curves at a reasonable speed. A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on the news happen on curves. Here’s why: Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the same laws of physics when driving on curves. The traction of the tires against the road surface makes it possible for the vehicle to changeits path when you turn the front wheels. If there’s no traction, inertia will keep the vehicle going in the same direction.
Steering in Emergencies There are times when steering can be more effective than braking. For example, you come over a hill and find a truck stopped in your lane, or a car suddenly pulls out from nowhere, or a child darts out from between parked cars and stops right in front of you. You can avoid these problems by braking -- if you can stop in time. But sometimes you can’t; there isn’t room. That’s the time for evasive action -- steering around the problem.
Off-Road Recovery Passing You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for justthe right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again.
Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following tooclosely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following alarger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops. Keep back a reasonable distance. When it looks like a chance to pass is coming up, start to accelerate but stay in the right lane and don’t get too close.
Loss of Control Let’s review what driving experts say about what happens when the three control systems (brakes, steering and acceleration) don’t have enough friction where the tires meet the road to do what the driver has asked. In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and constantly seek an escape routeor area of less danger. Skidding In a skid, a driver can lose control of the vehicle.
Here are some tips on night driving. Driving at Night . . . . . . -. . . . . . . . . ..... I 0 Drive defensively. 0 Don’t drink and drive. 0 Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. 0 Since you can’t see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles. 0 Slow down, especially on higher speed roads. Your headlamps can light up only so much road ahead. ..... ...... <-=.*.- In remote areas, watch for animals.
Night Vision No one can see as well at night as in the daytime. But as we get older these differences increase. A 50-year-old driver may require at least twice as much light tosee the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What you do in the daytime can alsoaffect your night vision. For example, if you spend the dayin bright sunshine you are wise to wear sunglasses. Your eyes will have less trouble adjusting to night. But if you’re driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night.
Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get even less traction. It’s always wise to go slower and be cautious if rain starts to fall while you are driving. The surface may get wet suddenly when your reflexes are tuned for driving on dry pavement. The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see.
Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, applyyour brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally. Driving too fast through large water puddles or even going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can’t, try to slow downbefore you hit them.
Hydroplaning Driving Through Deep Standing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. Whenyour vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road. NOTICE: If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or standing water, water can come in through your engine’s air intake and badly damage your engine.
City Driving Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: 0 Know the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city mapand plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross-country trip. 0 Try to use the freeways that rim and crisscross most large cities. You’ll save time and energy. (See the next part, “Freeway Driving.”) One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them.
Freeway Driving The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving. Too-fast or too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on afreeway as apassing lane. At the entrance, there is usually a rampthat leads to the freeway. If you have a clearview of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp,you should begin to check traffic.
Once you are moving on the freeway, make certain you allow a reasonable followingdistance. Expect to move slightly slowerat night. When you want to leave the freeway, move to the proper lane well in advance. If you miss your exit, donot, under any circumstances, stop and back up. Drive on to the next exit. The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quitesharply, Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it.
Highway Hypnosis Hill and MountainRoads Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Callit highway hypnosis, lack of awareness,or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. 0 I Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes,tires, cooling system and transaxle. These partscan work hard on mountain roads. Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL(N) or with the ignition off is dangerous. Your brakes will have to do all the work of slowing down. They could get so hot that they wouldn’t work well.
Winter Driving Here are sometips for winter driving: 0 Have your Buick in good shape for winter. 0 You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. 4-26 Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, arag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, ared cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip” and will need to be very careful. What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice canbe slick and hard to drive on. But wet ice canbe even more troublebecause it may offer the least traction of all.
Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on aslippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stoppingsooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock” in the Index. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road. Watch for slippery spots. The road might be fine until you hit a spotthat’s covered with ice.
If you are stopped by heavy snow, you could be in a serious situation. You should probably stay with your vehicle unless you know for sure that you are near help and you can hike through the snow. Here are some things to do to summon helpand keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers. 0 Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you.
n Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, makeit go alittle faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel forthe heat that you get and it keeps the Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. battery charged. You will need a well-charged battery to This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas restart the vehicle, and possibly for signaling later on to get inside. CO could overcomeyou and kill with your headlamps.
Loading Your Vehicle :" TIRE-LOADINGINFORMATION OCCUPANTS VEHICLE CAP. WT. CTR. FRT. RR. TOTAL LBS. KG . MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP DATE GVWR GAWR FRT GAWR RR THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLICABLE U.S. FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION STANDARDS IN EFFECT ON THE DATE OF MANUFACTURE SHOWN ABOVE. MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE XXX COLD TIRE CAPACITY WEIGHT PRESSURE SPEED TIRE SIZE PSI/KPa RTG FRT. I RR. SPA.
A CAUT’UN: Do not load yourvehicle any heavier than the GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can break, or it canchange the way your vehicle handles. These could cause you to lose control. Also, overloading can shorten thelife of your vehicle. NOTICE: Your warranty does not cover parts or components thatfail because of overloading.
Electronic Level Control (If Equipped) This feature keepsthe rear of your vehicle level as the load changes. It is automatic -- you do not need to adjust anything. Towing a Trailer If you don’t use the correct equipment and drive properly, you canlose control when you pull a trailer. For example,if the trailer is too heavy, the brakes may not workwell or even at all. You and your passengers could be seriously injured. Pull a trailer only if you have followed all the steps in this section.
That’s the reason for this part. In it are many time-tested, important trailering tips and safety rules. Many of these are important for your safety and that of your passengers. So please read this section carefully before you pull a trailer. Consider using a sway control. You can ask a hitch dealer about sway controls. Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle, wheel assemblies and tires are forced t.o work harder against the drag of the added weight.
Weight of the Trailer Weight of the Trailer Tongue How heavy can a trailer safelybe? The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total capacity weight of your vehicle. The capacity weight includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle.
If you’re using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). If you have a weight-distributing hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper. If they aren’t, you may be able to get them right simply by moving some itemsaround in the trailer.
Safety Chains Driving with a Trailer You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for attachingsafety chains and do not attach them to the bumper.
Passing Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer You’ll need more passing distance up ahead when you’re towing a trailer. And, because you’re a good deal longer, you’ll need to go much farther beyond the passed vehicle before you can return to your lane. When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your Buick dealer. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change.
Driving On Grades Reduce speed and shift to a lower gear before you start down a long or steep downgrade.If you don’t shift down, you might have to use your brakes so much that they would get hot and no longer work well. When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: Start your engine; Parking on Hills Shift into a gear; and You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill.
fi 4-40 NOTES
(@ Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road.
Hazard Warning Flashers Press the button in to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work n o matter what position your key is in. and even if the key isn’t in. To turn off the flashers, pull out on the collar. Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash o n and dl’. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work.
Other Warning Devices If you carry reflective triangles, you can set one up at the side of the road about 300 feet (100 m) behind your vehicle. Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicleand some jumper cablesto start your Buick. But please use the following steps to do it safely. NOTICE: Remember that ignoring these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
2 . Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your Buick, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems. To avoid the possibility of the vehicles rolling, set the parking brake firmly on both vehicles involved in the jump start procedure. Put your automatic transaxle in PARK (P) before setting the parking brake. 3.
A CAUTION: L l Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to theDelco Freedom@ battery installed in every newGM vehicle. But if a battery has filler caps,be sure the right amount of fluid is there.If it is low, add water to take care of that first. If you don’t, explosive gas could be present.
7. Connect the red positive (+) cable to the positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
9. Now connect the black negative (-) cable to the goodbattery’s negative (-) terminal. Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative(-) cable doesn’t go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy unpainted metal part on the engine of the vehicle with the dead battery. 10. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the deadbattery, but not near engine parts that move.
13. Remove the cables in reverse order. Take care that they don’t touch each other or any other metal. Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a Buick dealer or a professional towing service tow your LeSabre. See “Roadside Assistance” in the Index. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it was factory-new by adding aftermarket items like fog lamps, aero skirting, or special tires and wheels, these instructions and illustrations may not be correct.
AC ’A CAUTION: UTION: A vehicle can fall froma car carrier if it isn’t adequately secured. This can cause a collision, serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains or steel cables before itis transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cutby sharp edges underneath the towedvehicle. Always use T-hooks inserted in the T-hook slots. Never use J-hooks. They will damage drivetrain and suspension components.
Front Towing Attach T-hook chains on both sidesin the slotted holes in the bottom of the cradle, behind the frontwheels. - Position a 4” x 4” wood beam across sling chains contacting the bottomof the radiator support. Position the lower sling crossbar directly under the front bumper.
Attach T-hook chains to slots in the bottom of the floor pan directly ahead of the rear wheels on both sides. No 4 " x 4 " wood beam is needed. L Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each control arm.
J Position the lower sling crossbar directly behind and at the lower edge of the rear bumper cover. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each lower control arm.
Engine Overheating You will find a coolant light or a warning light about a hot engine on your Buick’s instrument panel. If you have the optional gage cluster, you may also have a coolant temperature warning gage. See “EngineCoolant Temperature Warning Light” or “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” in the Index. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine A CAUTION: badly, even if you just open thehood. Stay away from the engine’ifyou see or hear steam coming from it.
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get the overheat warning but see orhear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving. Idle for long periods in traffic. Tow a trailer. If you get the overheat warning with no sign of steam, try this for a minute or so: 1. Turn off your air conditioner. 2. Turn on your heater to full hot at the highest fan speed and open the window as necessary.
When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: An electric fan under the hoodcan start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothingand tools away from any underhood electricfan. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Radiator Pressure Cap C.
Heater and radiatorhoses, and other engine parts, can be very hot.Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned. Don’t run the engine if there is a leak. If you run the engine, it could loseall coolant. That could cause an engine fire, and you could beburned. Get any leak fixed before youdrive thevehicle. The coolant level shouldbe at or abovethe FULL COLD mark. If it isn’t, you may have a leakin the radiatorhoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pumpor somewhere elsein the cooling system.
How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t founda problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and DEX-COOL@ (silicate-free) antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “EngineCoolant’’ in the Index formore information.) 1 NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mix.
I You can be burnedif you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethyleneglycol and itwill burn if the engine parts are hot enough. Don’t spill coolant ona hot engine. When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at the FULL COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there’s one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mix directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn it. Remove the pressure cap. 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, includingthe radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot.Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
3. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the FULL COLD mark. 5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off.
6. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot.Watch out for the engine fans. 7. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator filler neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL@coolant mixture through the filler neck until the level reaches the base of the filler neck. 8. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap.
? -1 Ti:e Goes Flat unusual for atire to “blow out” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: HIS If a fronttire fails, the flat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal and grip the steering wheel firmly.
4 A The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. Pull the carpeting from the floor of the trunk. Turn the center retainer bolt on the spare tire cover counterclockwise to remove it. Lift and remove the cover. See “Compact Spare Tire’’ later in this section for more information about the compact spare. Remove the spare tire from the trunk. 5-24 The box that stores the jack and wrench is on the passenger side trunk wall. Open the box and then twist the wing bolt a one-quarter turn counterclockwise.
Removing Wheel Covers and Wheel Nut Caps The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A) and wheel wrench (B). If your vehicle has an aluminum wheel with a center cover that hides the wheel nuts, remove the center cover by using the flat end of the wrench to pry it off.
If your vehicle has a wheel cover, remove it by using the flatend of the wheel wrench. Pry along the edgeof the wheel cover until it comes off. Be careful, therim edges may be sharp.Don’t try to remove itwith your bare hands. Note: When replacing any wheel cover, carefully line up the tire valve stem and the notch in thewheel cover. 5-26 If your vehicle has this aluminum wheel, you may have plasticwheel nut caps. Use the wheel nut wrench to remove the wheel nut caps and to loosen the wheel nuts.
Use the wire wheel key wrench to remove the wheel cover. Using the flat endof the key wrench handle, between the wire wheel cover and the center cap, pry off the center cap. Remove the theft-deterrent nut, by placing the key end of the wire wheel key wrench over the nut and turning it to the left. Pull off the wire wheel cover. Note: When replacing the wheel cover, carefully line up the tire valve stem and the notch in the wheel cover.
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 2. Attach the wheel wrench to the bolt on the end of the jack and rotate the wrench clockwise toraise the jack head a few inches. 1. Use the wheel wrench to loosen the wheel nuts, b u t don’t remove them. 5-28 3. Put the jack into a notch in the frame which is located near each wheel well. The front notch is 10 inches (25 cm) back from the front wheel well. The rear notch is 8 inches (25 cm) forward from the rear wheel well.
Getting undera vehicle when itis jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack,you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. 4. Position the jack and raise the jack head until it fits firmly on the ridge in the vehicle’s frame nearest the flat tire. Do not raise the vehicle yet. Put the compact spare tire near you. Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall.
7. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. I 5. Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench clockwise inthe jack. Raise the vehicle far enough so there’s enough room for thespare tire to fit. 6. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. 5-30 I Rust or dirton the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make thewheel nuts become loose aftera time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident.
' A CAUTION: 8. Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface and replace the wheel nuts with the rounded 10. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwiseon the jack. Lower the jack completely. 9. Make sure each wheel stud is centered in each wheel hole while tightening the nuts. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against hub.
11. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-cross sequence. NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to To avoid brake pulsation and rotor damage. expensive brake repairs,evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification. Don’t try to put a wheel cover on your compact spare tire. It won’t fit. Store the wheel cover in the trunk until you have the flat tire repaired or replaced.
Storing theFlatTireandTools A CAUTION: Store the flat tire as far forward in the trunk as possible. Store the jack and wheel wrench in theirbox in the trunk on the passenger’s side. Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. After you’ve put the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you’ll needto store the flat tirein your trunk.
Storing the SDare Tire and Tools 3 Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehiclecould cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment couldstrike someone. Store all these in the proper place. 2 The compactspare is for temporary use only. Replace the compact spare tire with a full-size tire as soon as you can. See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section. See the storing instructions label toreplace your compact spare intoyour trunk properly. 1.
Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 kPa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.
If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. Themethod known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution. ’ - ~ NOTICE: Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin the wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle.
NOTES 5-37
k% 5-38 NOTES
1 Section 6 ServiceandAppearanceCare Here you will find information about the care of your Buick.This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it showshow to check important fluidand lubricant levels. Thereis also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
Service Your Buick dealer knows your vehiclebest and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you’ll go to your dealer forall your service needs. You’ll get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supportedservice people. We hope you’llwant to keep.yourGM vehicle all GM. Genuine GM parts have one of these marks: B n W Delco Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do someof your own service work, you’ll want to get theproper Buick Service Manual.
Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Things you might add to the outside of your vehicle can affect the airflow around it. This may cause wind noise and affect windshield washer performance. Checkwith your Buick dealer before adding equipment to the outside of your vehicle. Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. At a minimum, it should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the United States and CGSB 3.5-M93 in Canada.
Some gasolines that are not reformulated for low emissions contain an octane-enhancing additive called methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT); ask your service station operator whether or not his fuel contains MMT. General Motors does not recommend the use of such gasolines. If fuels containing MMT are used, spark plug life may be reduced and your emission control system performance may be affected. The malfunction indicator lamp on your instrument panel may turn on.
Filling Your Tank I A CAUTION: I Gasoline vapor is highly flammable. It burns violently, and that can cause very bad injuries. Don’t smoke if you’re neargasoline or refueling your vehicle. Keep sparks, flames and smoking materials away from gasoline. The cap is behind a hinged door on the driver’s sideof your vehicle.
I a CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignitesit, you could be badlyburned. Gasoline can spray outon you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly. This spray can happen if your tank is nearly full, and is more likelyin hot weather. Open the fuel filler cap slowly and wait for any66hiss’s noise to stop. Then unscrew the capall the way. Because you have the (L36) 3800 v6 your be tethered and you cannot hang it on the inside cap will - - fuel door while refueling.
When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap.The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap hasbeen left off or improperly installed. This would allow fuel to evaporate intothe atmosphere. See “Malfunction Indicator Lamp”in the Index. NOTICE: If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly.
Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the hood release handle inside the vehicle. It is next to the parking brake pedal near the floor. Then go to the front of the vehicle and pull up on the secondary hood release. The hood latch is under the hood, near the center, and at the front edge of the grille. Lift up on the lever as you lift up on the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly.
3800 Series I1 Engine (L36 - Code K) When you open the hood, you’ll see: A. B. C. D. Engine Coolant Recovery Tank Battery Radiator Pressure Cap Engine Oil Dipstick E. Engine Oil Fill Cap F. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick G. Brake Master Cylinder H. Air Cleaner I.
Engine Oil CHECK OIL LEVEL If the CHECK OIL LEVEL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more infomation, see “Check Oil Level Light”in the Index. You should check your engine oil level regularly; this is an added reminder. It’s a good idea to check your engine oil every time you get fuel. In order to get an accurate reading, the oil must be warm and the vehicle must be on level ground.
The engine oil fill cap is behind the engine oil dipstick and engine fans. I I Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through. What Kind of Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (APT). Do not use any oil which does not carry this Starburst symbol.
RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS . FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE LOWEST SAE VISCOSITY GRADE OIL FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. HOT WEATHER As shown in the chart, SAE low-30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE SW-30 if it’s going to be colder than 60°F ( 16”C) before your next oil change. When it’s very cold, you should use SAE 5W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W-SO.
Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Buick dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil If any one of these is true for you,use the short trip/city maintenance schedule: 0 Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. 0 Most trips include extensive idling(such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). 0 Most trips are through dusty areas.
Air Cleaner The air cleaner and filter areon the driver’s sideof the engine compartment. 2. Remove the screws on the air cleaner housing cover. 1. Remove the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) cover that is located to the driver’s side of the air cleaner assembly. Unscrew the retaining screws and remove the PCM cover.
4. Replace the airfilter. 3. Remove the air intake hose that is snapped over the throttle bodyby pulling the hose upward and away 5. Reinstall the rear sectionof the air cleaner. from the throttle body which is located near the top 6. Reattach the air intakehose by snapping it back onto of the engine.After detaching the hose from the the throttlebody. throttle body, pull back the entire rear portion of the air cleaner by pulling upwardand rearward.
Automatic Transaxle Fluid ~~ ~ ~~~~ Operating the engine with the air cleaner off can cause you or others tobe burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if the engine backfires. If it isn’t there, and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Don’t drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaneroff. NOTICE: If the air cleaner is off, a backfire can causea damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into your engine, whichwill damage it.
I How to Check 0 In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at your Buick dealership Service Department. 0 While pulling a trailer. If you do it yourself, be sure to followall the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick. NOTICE: To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C to 93 " C).
Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: 1. The transaxle fluid dipstick top is a round loop and is next to the brake master cylinder behind the engine block. Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a clean rag or paper towel. 2. Push it back in all the way, wait three seconds and then pull it back out again. 6-18 3. Check both sides of the dipstick, and read the lower level. The fluid level must bein the cross-hatched area. 4.
How to Add Fluid 3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under “How to Check.” Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid touse. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants’’ in the Index. 4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way. Engine Coolant If the fluid level is low, add only enough of the proper fluid to bring the level intothe cross-hatched area on the dipstick.
~ fi CAUTION: NOTICE: When adding coolant, it is important thatyou use only DEX-COOL’ (silicate-free) coolant. If coolant other thanDEX-COOL’ is added to the system, premature engine, heater core or radiator corrosion may result. In addition, the engine coolant willrequire change sooner at 30,000 miles (50 000 km) or 24 months, whichever occurs first. Damage causedby the use of coolant other thanDEX-COOL@is not covered by your new vehiclewarranty.
NOTICE: Checking Coolant If you usean improper coolant mix, your engine could overheat and be badly damaged. The repair cost wouldn't be covered by your warranty. Too much water in the mix can freeze and crack theengine, radiator, heatercore and other parts. If you have to add coolant more than four times a year, have your dealer check your cooling system. NOTICE: If you usethe propercoolant, you don't have to add extra inhibitorsor additives which claim to improve the system. These can be harmful.
Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be careful not to spillit. I Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids toblow out and burnyou badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure capeven a little when the engine and radiator are hot.
Thermostat When to Check Power Steering Fluid Engine coolant temperature is controlled by a thermostat in the engine coolant system. The thermostat stops the flow of coolant through the radiator until the coolant reaches a preset temperature. It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate aproblem. Have the system inspected and repaired.
Windshield Washer Fluid Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use afluid that has sufficient protection against freezing. Adding Washer Fluid 6-24 NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water.
Brakes Brake Fluid your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off”’your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak. If you add fluid when your linings are worn, then you’ll have toomuch fluid when you get new brake linings. You should add (or remove) brake fluid, as necessary, only when work is done on the brake hydraulic system. CAUTbd: Your brake master cylinder reservoir is here.
What to Add When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT-3 brake fluid -- such as Delco Supreme l l @(GM Part No. 12377967). Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. NOTICE: 0 Always clean the brake fluid reservoir cap and the area around the capbefore removing it. This will help keep dirt from entering the reservoir. 0 With the wrong kindof fluid in your brake system, your brakes may not work well, or they may not even workat all. This could cause a crash. Always use the proper brake fluid.
Brake W e v Your Buick has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicleis moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly). A CAUTION: The brake wearwarning sound means that soon your brakes won’t work well.That could lead to an accident.
Brake Pedal Travel Battery See your dealer if the brake pedal does not return to normal height, or if there is a rapid increase in pedal travel. This could be a sign of brake trouble. Every new Buick has a Delco Freedom@battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom battery. Get one that has the replacement number shown on the original battery’s label.
Bulb Replacement Headlamps For the bulb types tobe used in the following procedures, see “Replacement Bulbs”in the Index. This procedure is for both the driver’s and passenger’s side headlamps. Halogen Bulbs Halogen bulbs have pressurizedgas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured. Besure to read and follow the instructions on the bulb package. 1. Use a 10 mrn hex socket to remove two bolts retaining the headlamp assembly.
2. Slide the headlamp outboarduntil the pins are loose. 3. Remove the headlamp assembly toaccess the bulbs. 6-30 4. Rotate the bulbretainer counterclockwise to remove the bulbassembly.
5. f i l l the tabs away from the bulb base to remove the bulb from the retainer. 6. Push the new bulb straight ontothe retainer. 7. Reverse these steps to replace the bulb assembly.
Front Turn Signal Trunk Mounted Back-up and Taillamps The frontturn signal bulbs can be accessed from under the front of the vehicle. Reach up from under the vehicle and, while pushing in the tab on the bulb assembly, turn assembly counterclockwise and remove. Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out of the retainer. Replace the bulb and turn the bulb assembly back into place. Cornering Lamps Follow the same procedure as used for replacing the headlamps.
2. Pull out the assembly. 3. Push in the tab and turn the bulb assembly counterclockwise to remove it.
4. Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out. 6-34 5 . Replace the bulb and reverse the steps to install the new bulb assembly.
Rear Turn Signals 1. Open the trunk. Pull the carpet away from the rear area to access the turn signal bulb assembly. 2. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter turn counterclockwise, while pressing it firmly. 3. Pull the bulb socket straight out of the assembly. 4. Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out. 5. Replace with a new bulb by pushing the bulb straight into the socket until the bulb clicks into place. 6. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter turn into the assembly to lock it back into place.
2. Locate the headlamp aiming screwthat is under the hood. 3. Turn the vertical aiming screw until the bubble inside the level is centered at zero “0”. 4. After the vertical aim is correct, checkthe horizontal aim for each headlamp and adjust as necessary. Turn the horizontal aiming screw until the end of the screw aligns with the zero “0”. 5. Re-check the verticalaim to make sure it remains correct after the horizontal aim adjustment. Adjust as necessary.
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Tires Your new Buick comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Buick Warranty booklet for details. r--I I Replacement blades come in different types and are removed indifferent ways. Here’s how to remove the type with a release clip: 1. Pull the windshield wiperarm away from the windshield. 2.
NOTICE: 0 0 Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury. Check all tires frequently to maintain the recommended pressure. Tire pressure shouldbe checked when your tires arecold. Overinflated tires are morelikely to be cut, punctured or brokenby a sudden impact such as when you hita pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Worn, old tires can cause accidents.
When to Check Check your tires once a month more. or Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should beat 60 psi (420 kPa). Maintenance Services” in the Index for scheduled rotation intervals. I L How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tiresare properly inflated simply by looking at them. Radial tiresmay look properly inflated even when they’re underinflated. Be sure to put the valve caps back on the valve stems.
A CAUTION: , Rust or dirton a wheel, or on the parts towhich it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could comeoff and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirtfrom places where the wheel attaches to thevehicle. In anemergency, you can use a cloth or a paper towel to do this; butbe sure to use a scraper orwire brush later, if you off. (See need to, to get all the rust or dirt “Changing a Flat Tire” in the Index.
Buying New Tires To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire-Loading Information label. The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had a Tire Performance Criteria Specification (TPC Spec) number on each tire’s sidewall. When you get new tires, get ones with that same TPC Spec number. That way your vehicle will continue to have tires that are designed to give proper endurance, handling, speed rating, traction, ride and other things during normal service on your vehicle.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Treadwear The following informationrelates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires.
Temperature -- A, B, The temperature grades areA (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
Used Replacement Wheels Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on yourvehicle can be dangerous. It could affect the braking and handling of your vehicle, make your tireslose air and makeyou lose control. You could have a collision in which you or otherscould be injured. Always use the correct wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for replacement. -~ Putting a used wheel on your vehicle is dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been used or how far it’s been driven.
Tire Chains I NOTICE: Use tire chains only where legal and only when you must. Use only SAE Class “S” type chains that are the proper size for your tires. Install them on the front tires and tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened. Driveslowly and follow the chain manufacturer’s instructions.If you can hear the chains contacting yourvehicle, stop and retighten them. If the contact continues,slow down until it stops.
I Cleaning the Inside of Your Buick Use a vacuum cleaner often toget rid of dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinyl or leather with a clean, damp cloth. Your Buick dealer has two cleaners, a solvent-type spot lifter and a foam-type powderedcleaner. They will clean normal spots and stains very well. Do not use them on vinyl or leather. 4. Use suds only and apply with a clean sponge. Don’t saturate the material and don’t rub it roughly. 5. As soon as you’ve cleanedthe section, use a sponge to remove the suds. 6.
Special Cleaning Problems Greasy or Oily Stains Stains caused by grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe polish, coffee with cream, chewing gum, cosmetic creams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt can be removed as follows: 1. Carefully scrape off excess stain. 2. Follow the solvent-type instructions described earlier. 3. If an odor lingers after cleaning vomit or urine, treat the area with a waterbaking soda solution: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of baking soda to 1 cup (250 ml) of lukewarm water. 4.
Cleaning Leather Use a soft cloth with lukewarm water and a mild soap or saddle soap and wipe dry with a soft cloth. Then, letthe leather dry naturally. Do not use heat to dry e For stubborn stains, use a leather cleaner. See your dealer forthis product. Never use oils, varnishes, solvent-based or abrasive cleaners, furniturepolish or shoe polishon leather. Soiled or stained leather should be cleaned immediately. If dirt is allowed to work into the finish, it can harm the leather.
Cleaning the Outsideof the Windshield and Wiper Blades If the windshield is not clear after using the windshield washer, or if the wiper blade chatters when running, wax, sap or other material may be on the blade or windshield. Clean theoutside of the windshield with GM Windshield Cleaner, Bon Ami@Powder (non-scratching glass cleaning powder), GM Part No. 1050011. The windshield is clean if beads do not form when you rinse it with water.
Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Buick by hand may be necessary to remove residue fromthe paint finish. You can get GM-approved cleaning products from your dealer. (See “Appearance Careand Materials” in the Index.) Your Buick has a “basecoat/clearcoat”paint finish. The clearcoat gives moredepth and gloss to the colored basecoat. Always use waxes and polishes that are non-abrasive and made for a basecoat/clearcoat paint finish.
Cleaning Tires Underbody Maintenance To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. Chemicals used for ice and snow removal and dust control can collect on the underbody. If these are not removed, accelerated corrosion (rust) can occur on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor pan and exhaust system even though they have corrosion protection.
MBER I .
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Engine Identification The 8th characterin your VIN is the engine code. This code will help you identify your engine, specifications and replacement parts. I1.11 @ 111 111111 11. 11111111 111111111111111.11111 1 1 - Service Parts Identification Label * ““LE4UXVM072675 7 \ ASSEMBLY ENGINE A 9 7 CODE MODEL YEAR PLANT This isthe legal identifier for yourBuick. It appears on a plate in the front cornerof the instrument panel, on the driver’s side.
Electrical System Headlamp Wiring Add-on Electrical Equipment The headlamp wiring is protected by an internal circuit breaker. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have your headlamp system checked right away. NOTICE: Don’t add anything electrical to your Buick unless you check with yourdealer first. Some electrical equipment can damage your vehicle and the damage wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Maxifuse/Relay Center To check the fuses in this underhood fuse center, turn the two knobs one-quarter turn counterclockwise and loosen the metal wing nut on the passenger side of the cover. Then remove the cover. The inside of the cover has a chartthat explains the features and controls governed by each fuseand relay. Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combinationof fuses, circuitbreakers and fusiblethermal links.
The driver’s side fuse block is to the left of the steering wheel, under the instrument panel. Snap off the cover to reveal the fuses. You’ll find a fuse puller clipped to the inside of the cover. Place the wide end of the fuse puller over theplastic end of the fuse. Squeeze the ends over the fuse and pull it out. Spare fuses are locatedin the slots labeled “Spare” on the following chart. When finished, replacethe cover by snapping it back up into place.
Fuse 1 2 1 2 4 1 5 6 8 9 1 3 4 5 1A 2A 3A 4A SA 6A 7A 8A 9A 1B 2B 3B 4B 6-58 Usage Not Used Not Used Power Seats Circuit Breaker Not Used Not Used PASS-Key Spare Not Used Not Used Up-Level HVAC, ALM, Cruise Control, Cluster Courtesy Lamps, Power Mirrors Not Used Perimeter Lighting Not Used Turn Signal, Back-up Lamps, BTSI Spare Not Used Not Used
Fuse SB 6B 7B 8B 9B 1c 2c 3C 4c sc 6C 7c 8C 9c 1D 2D 3D 4D SD Usage Anti-Lock Brake System, Computer Command Control Brake and Hazard Lamps Not Used Interior Lighting Cigarette Lighter Air Bag System Spare Not Used Not Used Cooling Fans, Transaxle Parking Lamps, Interior Lamps Not Used Parking Lamps Radio, Cluster Telltale, Chime, Cluster, RAC, LCM Spare Not Used Not Used Base A/C Fuse 6D 7D 8D 9D 1E 2E 3E 4E SE 6E 7E 8E 9E Usage Not Used Not Used Radio Not Used Not Used Air Bag System, PASS-Key Not Us
Fuse 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 n o 0017 r---------l I I I 6-60 FUSE POSITIONS I I I I I I I 11 12 Usage Door Locks Trunk Release, RAC Horns Not Used Miscellaneous Engine Controls Fuel Pump Injectors Powertrain Control Module Not Used Not Used A/C Programmer Not Used
Capacities and Specifications Replacement Bulbs Outside Front Lamps Cornering Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Halogen Headlamps Low-Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . High-Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parking/Turn Signal Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rear Outside Lamps Back-up Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SidemarkerLamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tail . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same.If the air conditioning system in yourvehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure,ask your Buickdealer. Engine Specifications 3800 Series I1 Engine (L36) VIN Engine Code ........................... K Type .................................... V6 Displacement ............................ 3.8L Horsepower ........................... 205-hp FiringOrder ......................
L36 Engine AccesSQry Belt The L36 engine uses an engine accessory belt. This diagram shows the features connected and the routing. See “Maintenance Schedule”in the Index for when to check the belt. B A. Power Steering F B. Generator C. Air Conditioning D. Crank E.
& 6-64 NOTES
I @ Section 7 MaintenanceSchedule This section covers the maintenance required for your Buick. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance.
I Introduction IMPORTANT: KEEP ENGINE OIL AT THE PROPER LEVEL AND CHANGEAS RECOMMENDED 7-2 Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance procedures are important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of emissions from your vehicle.
How This Section is Organized The remainder of this section is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services can be complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service departmentor another qualified service centerdo these jobs. Performing maintenance work on a vehicle can be dangerous. In trying to do some jobs, you can be seriously injured.
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to helpyou keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we don’t know exactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very short distances only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances all the time in very hot, dusty weather.You may use your vehicle in making deliveries. Or you may driveit to work, to do errands or in many other ways.
Maintenance Schedule I Short Trip/City Definition I Follow the Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule if any one of these conditions is true for your vehicle: Most trips are less than 5 to 10 miles (8 to 16 km). This is particularly important when outside temperatures are below freezing. Most trips include extensive idling (such as frequent driving in stop-and-go traffic). Most trips are through dusty areas. You frequently tow a trailer or use a carrier on top of your vehicle.
Maintenance Schedule E 1 Long: Trip/Highwav Definition ~ Follow this maintenance schedule only if none of the conditions from the ShortTrip/City Maintenance Schedule is true. Do not use this schedule if the vehicle is used for trailer towing, driven in a dusty area or used off paved roads. Use the Short Trip/City schedule for these conditions. Every 7,500 Miles (12 500 km): Engine Oil and Filter Change (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first).
Short TripKity Maintenance Schedule The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (. 166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles ( 166 000 kmj at the same intervals.The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 kmj. See “Owner Checksand Services” and “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” following. Footnotes -1The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency or the (12 500 km)since your last oil change.
I Shurt Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 3,000 Miles (5 000 km) 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A n Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) I DATE I ACTUALMILEAGE 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emissior? Contrvl Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 9,000 Miles (15000 km) 12,000 Miles (20 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 17 Change engine oiland filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service.(See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See“Tire Inspection and Rotation” in theIndex for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote++.
I I ShortTriplCityMaintenanceSchedule I 18,000 Miles (30 000 km) 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). AI?Emissiorz Contr-01Ser-\lice. (See footnote *.) 0Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary. An Enlissiorl C o m d SeI*~~icc. (See footnote?.) 3 months, whichever occurs first). A I IEnIissiou Corltl-olService. (See footnote *.
1 Short Trip/CityMaintenance Schedule I 21,000 Miles (35 000 km) 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) [I3 Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Contrd Service. (See footnote *.) 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Enoissio~?Coutrd Sen;ice. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires.
1 ShortTrip/CityMaintenance Schedule I 27,000 Miles (45 000 km) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emissiorl C o m d SenYce. (See footnote *.) 3 months, whichever occurs first). A17 Emission Control Sonice. (See footnote * .) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Replace air cleaner filter. A I IEmissiou Co1lt1-01 Ser-\*icc.
I 1 Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 33,000 Miles (55 000 km) 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). A n EnzissioM Corztrol Service. (See footnote *.) or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote T.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Indexfor proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 36.000 Miles (60 000 km) 39,000 Miles (65 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Indexfor proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 42,000 Miles (70 000 km) 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emissior~Control Service. (See footnote* .) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 48,000 Miles (80 000 km) 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change automatic transaxlefluid and filter 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation’’ in theIndex for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) 54,000 Miles (90 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). 3 months, whichever occurs first). A n Emissior? Contr.01Service. (See footnote *.) An Emission Comol Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) Rotate tires.
Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 57,000 Miles (95 000 km) 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil andfilter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Inspect engine accessorydrive belt. 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) An Emission Control Service.
I Short Trip/City MaintenanceSchedule I 63,000 Miles (105 000 km) 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Enj.issiorz C o m o l Service. (See footnote?.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) (Also see footnote ++.
I ShortTrip/City Maintenance Schedule I 66,000 Miles (110 000 km) 69,000 Miles (115 000km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Ser-vice. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) c]Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 72,000 Miles (120 000 km) 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 0 Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Serlyice. (See footnote *.) I J Lubricate chassis components(or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote#.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
I ShortTrip/City Maintenance Schedule I 78,000 Miles (130 000 km) 81,000 Miles (135 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occursfirst). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Indexfor proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 84,000 Miles (140 000 km) 87,000 Miles (145 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emissior.1 Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) [7 Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
Short TriplCity Maintenance Schedule 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 3 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Replace air cleaner filter. An Emission Control Service. c7 Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for dama or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote T.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule 93,000 Miles (155000 km) Change engineoil and filter (orevery 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote*.) I 96,000 Miles (140 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter(or every 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote*.) Lubricate chassis components (or every 6 months, whicheveroccurs first). (See footnote#.) CI Rotate tires.
I Short Trip/City Maintenance Schedule I 99,000 Miles (145 000 km) 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Inspect spark plug wires. 3 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission C o m d Service. (See footnote *.) AI?Emission Control Service. 0Replace spark plugs. An Emission Cont~olService.
1 ShortTrip/CityMaintenanceSchedule I 150,000 Miles (240 000 km) In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. - 0Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 60 months since last service, whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure test cooling system and pressure cap. A11 Emission Corm-ol Set-vice.
Long Trip/Hie;hway Maintenance Schedule The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles (166 000 km)at the same intervals.The services shown at 150,000 miles (240000 km)should be performed at 000 km). the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 See “Owner Checks and Services” and “Periodic Maintenance Inspections” following. Footnotes (12 500 km)since your lastoil change.
I T long Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule /,500 Miles (12 500 km) 0Change engine oiland filter (or every 15,000 Miles (25 000 km) 12 months,whichever occurs first). An Emission C o m o l Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 12 months,whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 12 months, whichever occurs first).
I LongTriplHighwayMaintenanceSchedule 1 22,500 Miles (37 500 km) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (orevery 12 months, whichever occurs first). AI?Enlissiorl Corn-01 Scwic-e. (See footnote * .) 0Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
Long Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule 37,50.0Miles (62 500 km) 0Replace air cleaner filter. 0Change engine oil and filter (or every An E?nission Contr-01Senice. 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage or leaks. Inspect fuel cap gasket forany damage. Replace parts as needed. AI?E?.nission Corm-olService. (See footnote3.) I DATE I ACTUAL MILEAGE 12 months, whichever occurs first). Ai1 En~issionContml Sor-viw. (See footnote *.
Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule m , m I 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) 50,000 Miles (83 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every (7 Change 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote*.) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote#.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote+.) (Also see footnote++.
I LongTriplHighwayMaintenanceSchedul’e I 52,500 Miles (87 500 km) 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 0Change engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission C o m d Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspectionand Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
1 Long Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule I 60,000 Miles (100 000 km) (Continued) 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) 0Replace air cleaner filter. 0Change engine oil andfilter (or every An Emission Control Service. C l Inspect fuel tank, cap and linesfor damage or leaks. Inspectfuel cap gasket for any damage. Replace parts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote?.) DATE ACTUAL MILEAGE SERVICED BY: 12 months, whichever occurs first). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote*.
I LongTrip/HighwayMaintenanceSchedule I 75,000 Miles (125 000 km) 82,500 Miles (137 500 km) 0Change 0Change engine oil and filter (or every engine oil and filter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). AI^ Emission Colm-olService. (See footnote ?) Lubricate chassis components (or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
I Long Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) 0Change engineoil and filter (or every 0Inspect fuel tank, cap and lines for damage 12 months, whichever occursfirst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 0Lubricate chassis components (orevery 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote#.) Replace aircleaner filter. or leaks. Inspectfuel cap gasketfor any damage. Replaceparts as needed. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote?.) 0Rotate tires.
Long Trip/Highway Maintenance Schedule 1 97,500 Miles (162 500 km) 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) 0Change engine oiland filter (or every 0Inspect spark plug wires. 12 months, whichever occurs first). AI?Emission Control Service. (See footnote * .) 0Lubricate chassis components(or every 12 months, whichever occurs first). (See footnote #.) 0Rotate tires. See“Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.
I b I Long TriplHighway Maintenance Schedule 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) (Continued) In hilly or mountainous terrain. - When doing frequent trailer towing. - Uses such as found in taxi, police or delivery service. - I 150,000 Miles (240 000 km) 0Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every60 months since last service, whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck.
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Windshield Washer Fluid Level Check Listed below are owner checksand services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. Check the windshield washer fluid level in the windshield washer tank and add the proper fluid if necessary. See “Windshield Washer Fluid” in the Index for further details. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
At Least Twice a Year At Least Once a Year Restraint System Check Key Lock Cylinders Service Make surethe safety belt reminder lightand all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired. Have any torn or frayed safety belts replaced. Lubricate the key lock cylinders with the lubricant specified in Part D.
Starter Switch Check When you are doing this check, thevehicle could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Filmly apply both the parking brake (see “Parking Brake’’ in the Index if necessary) and the regular brake. NOTE: Do not use the accelerator pedal, and be ready to turn off the engine immediately if it starts. 3. Try to start the engine in each gear.
Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). The key should come out only in LOCK. Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle PARK (P) Mechanism Check Park on a fairly steep hill,with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake.
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed below are inspections and serviceswhich should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your GM dealer’s service departmentor other qualified service center do these jobs. Make sure anynecessary repairs are completed at once. Proper procedures to perform these services may be found in a GM service manual. See “Serviceand Owner Publications” in the Index.
~~ ~ Brake System Inspection Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and hoses for proper hook-up, binding, leaks, cracks, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake linings for wear and cracks. Inspect other brake parts, including drums, wheel cylinders, calipers, parking brake, etc. Check parking brake adjustment. You may need to have your brakes inspected more often if your driving habits or conditions result in frequent braking.
I Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your GM dealer. USAGE USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT Hydraulic Brake System Delco Supreme 11 Brake Fluid (GM Part No. 12377967 or equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid). Parking Brake Cable Guides Chassis lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2, Category LB or GC-LB.
~~~ ~ USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT Chassis Lubrication Chassis lubricant (GM Part No. 12377985 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI # 2, Category LB or GC-LB. Hood and Door Hinges Multi-pu ose lubricant, % Superlube (GM Part No. 12346241 or equivalent). Weatherstrip Conditioning Dielectric Silicone Grease (GM Part No. 12345579 or equivalent). Windshield Washer Solvent GM Optikleen@Washer Solvent (GM Part No. 1051515) or equivalent.
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed,record the date, odometer- reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from “Owner Checksand Services’’ or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Your owner information portfolio is a convenient placeto store them.
Maintenance Record DATE 7-48 I ODOMETER READING I SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED
Maintenance Record DATE ODOMETER READING SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-49
Maintenance Record I DATE 7-50 I ODOMETER SERVICED READING I BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED
Section 8 CustomerAssistanceInformation Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects. 8-2 8-4 8-5 8-5 8-6 8-7 Customer Satisfaction Procedure Customer Assistancefor Text Telephone (TTY) Users Roadside Assistance Canadian.
Customer Satisfaction Procedure Buick dealers have the facilities, trained technicians and up-to-date information to promptly address any concerns you may have. However, if a concern has not been resolved to your complete satisfaction, take the following steps: STEP ONE -- Discuss your concern with a member of dealership management. Normally, concerns can be quickly resolved at that level.
STEP TWO -- If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, contact the Buick Customer Relations Center by calling 1-800-521-7300. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre in Oshawa by calling 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French). For help outside of the United States and Canada, call the following numbers as appropriate: In Mexico: (525) 625-3256 In the U.S.
For prompt assistance, please havethe following information available to give the Customer Assistance Representative: 0 Your name, address, home and business telephone numbers 0 Vehicle Identification Number (This is available from the vehicle registration or title, or the plate a t the top leftof the instrument panel and visible through the windshield.
Roadside Assistance Our commitment toBuick owners has always included superior service through our network of 3,000 Buick dealers. Buick Premium Roadside Assistance provides an extra measureof convenience and security. Buick Premium Roadside Assistance: Provides owners with access to minor repairs or towing for disabled vehicles.
Courtesy Transportation To Buick Motor Division, Quality Means Service -- and service means “keepingyou on the road.” Included with your Buick new car warranty (3 years/36,000 miles (60 000 km), whichever occurs first), is Courtesy Transportation, a program which will provide Buick retail customers with: 0 0 Reimbursement toward a loaner vehicle, courtesy of Buick Motor Division, for up to five days for vehicles requiring overnight warranty repairs.
GM Participation in an Alternative Dispute Resolution Program BBB AUTO LINE is an out-of-court program administered by the Better Business Bureau system to settle automotive disputes. This programis available free of charge to customers who currently own or lease a GM vehicle. This program is available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
We prefer you utilize the Customer Satisfaction Procedure before you resort to AUTO LINE, but you may contact the BBB at any time. The BBB will attempt to resolve the complaint serving as an intermediary. If this mediation is unsuccessful, an informal hearing will be scheduled where eligible customers may present their case to an impartial third-party arbitrator. The arbitrator will make a decision which you may accept or reject. If you accept the decision, GM will be bound by that decision.
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle has a safety defect, you should immediate-lynotify Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General Motors of Canada Limited.You may write to: Transport Canada Box 8880 Ottawa, OntarioK l G 3J2 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO GENERAL MOTORS In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
1997 BUICK SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERINGINFORMATION The followingpublications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order, or credit card information to Helm, incorporated (address below.
ORDER TOLL FREE (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-782-4356 (Monday-Friday 8:OO AM - 6:OO PM EST) FAX Orders Onlv 1-313-865-5927 11 Orders will be mailed within 10,days of receipt. Please allow ade UE :e time for postal service. If further mformation IS needed, wrlte to the address s o vn below or call 1-800-782-4356.Material cannot be returned for credit without packil g slip with return information within 30 days of delivery.
fi 8-12 NOTES
Section 9 Index Air Bag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19 How Does it Restrain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23 How it Works ................................ 1-21 Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21 1.20. 2-60 ReadinessLight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24 What Makes it Inflate ........
Brake Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-28 Anti-lock System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-63.4-7 Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-25 6-25 Master Cylinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-27 Parking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PedalTravel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Compact Disc Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-35 Compact Disc Player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.24.3.29 Compact Disc Player Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.24.3.29 5-36 Compact Spare Tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Console Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5 1 Control of a Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 Convenience Net . . . . . . .
9-4
H a l o g e n Bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-29 Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2 Head Restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5 2-41 Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Aiming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-35 6-29 Bulb Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TheaterDimming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-44 Leaving Your Vehicle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-9 Leaving Your Vehicle with the Engine Running . . . . . . . 2-29 Light Sensor. Twilight Sentinel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-43 Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-52 Lights 1.20. 2-60 Air Bag Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anti-Lock Brake System Warning . . .
MMT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Multifunction Lever ............................. 6-4 2-34 2-52 N e t . Convenience .............................. Neutral. Automatic Transaxle ..................... 2-25 New Vehicle Break-In ........................... 2- 19 Nightvision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17 Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-62 2-58 Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I
Seats ManualFront . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 1-3 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Restraint Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1 Seatcontrols . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-2 Securing a Child Restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-37 Second Gear. Automatic Transaxle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-26 Security Feedback . . .
Time. Setting the . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3- 12 6-46 Tirechains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31 TireLoading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tire-Loading Information Label . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3 1 Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-38 6-44 Alignment and Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. Underbody Flushin. Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Underbody Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Universal Theft-Deterrent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-42 6-52 2- 16 Vehicle Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Damage Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Identification Number . . . . .
Service Station Checkpoints REMOTE BATTERY TERMINAL P5-6 TIRES P6-38 ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK SECONDARY HOOD RELEASE ENGINE COOLANT RECOVERY TANK P6-22 HOOD RELEASE P6-8 FUEL DOOR P6-5 I WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID P6-24 I REMOTE TRUNK RELEASE P2-13 For detailed information, refer to the page number listed, or see the Index in the back of the owner’s manual.
