1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Buick Manuals
  4. Automobile
  5. 1994 LeSabre
  6. Owner's manual

Buick 1994 LeSabre Owner's Manual

Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

d
LeSabre

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading

Related Manuals for Buick 1994 LeSabre

Summary of Contents for Buick 1994 LeSabre

  • Page 1 LeSabre...
  • Page 3 The 1994 Buick LeSabre Owner's Manual Litho in USA Motors Corporation 1993 C'opyright (iencr-;tl Part No. 25609657 B First Edition All Rights Reserved...
  • Page 4 Canada Limited” for Buick Motor Division whenever it appears in this manual. Please keep this manual in your Buick, so it will be there if you ever need it when you’re on the road. If you sell the vehicle, please leave this manual in it so the new owner can use it.
  • Page 6 Walter Marr and Thomas Buick Buick’s chief engineer, Walter L. Marr (left), and Thomas D. Buick, son of founder David Dunbar Buick, drove the first Flint Buick in a successful Flint-Detroit round trip in July 1904. David Buick was building gasoline engines by 1899, and Marr, his engineer, apparently built the first auto to be called a Buick in 1900.
  • Page 7 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, Chile in 19 14.
  • Page 8 In World War 11, Buick built aircraft engines, tanks and other military hardware. This post-war period brought great styling and engineering changes which resulted increased sales. The torque converter automatic transmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948 Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” came along in 1949.
  • Page 9 1962 Buick Special 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.
  • Page 11 Maintenanceschedule This part tells you when perform vehicle maintenance and what Customer Assistance Information This part tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how cives you information on "Reporting Index alphabetical Here's a n listing of' something you want read.
  • Page 12 How to Use This Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. This 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.
  • Page 13 Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: In the notice area, we tell 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 damage.
  • Page 14 Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find For example, These symbols these symbols are important are used on an for you and original battery: your passengers whenever your vehicle is CAUTION driven: POSSIBLE INJURY DOOR LOCK UNLOCK PROTECT EYES BY...

  • Page 15: Table Of Contents

    Part 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Buick and how to use your safety belts properly learn about some things you should Part 1 includes: .............

  • Page 16: Seatsandseatcontrols

    Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you about the seats -- how to adjust them, and also about reclining front seatbacks, and head restraints. Manual Seat Move the lever under the front seat to unlock it. Slide the seat to where you want it. Then release the lever and try to move the seat with your body, to make sure the seat is locked into place.
  • Page 17 Power Seat (Option) The power seat controls are located on the armrest. Front Control (F): 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 (C): Move the seat forward or back by holding the control to the front or back.
  • Page 18 But don't have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving.

  • Page 19: Headrestraints

    Head Restraints Slide the head restraint up or down so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your ears. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. Safety Belts: They’re For Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to properly.
  • Page 20 This figure lights up as a reminder to buckle up. (See “Safety Belt Reminder Light” in the Index.) In many states and Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.
  • Page 21 Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as it goes. For example, if the bike is going 10 mph (16 km/h), so is the child. When the bike hits the block, it stops. But the child keeps going!
  • Page 22 Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it's just a seat on Put someone on wheels.
  • Page 23 The person keeps going until stopped by something. up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...
  • Page 24 or the instrument panel or the safety belts! With safety belts, you slow down as the vehicle does. You get more time to stop. You stop over more distance, and your strongest bones take the forces. That’s why safety belts make such good sense.
  • Page 25 Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. you can easily unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.

  • Page 26: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly

    Be aware that there are special things safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. in your Buick, see the section after this one, called “Children.” Follow those rules for everyone’s protection. First, you’ll want to know which restraint systems your vehicle has.

  • Page 27: Lap-Shoulderbelt

    Driver Position This section describes the driver's restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap-shoulder belt. Here's how to wear it properly. 1 . Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see "Seats" in the Index) so you can sit up straight.
  • Page 28 3. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender”...
  • Page 29 Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster You can move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. To move it up or down, squeeze the release handle. When you release the handle, try to move to make sure it has locked into position. You can move the adjuster up from a lower position by pushing the bottom of the release handle.
  • Page 30 Adjust the height so that the shoulder portion of the belt is properly positioned on your shoulder, away from your face and neck. To help you find a height that is right for you, follow these guidelines: For a tall person: Use the upper or upper-middle position.
  • Page 31 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.
  • Page 32 &.' What's wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place.
  • Page 33 What's wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder all times.
  • Page 34 &: What's wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body.

  • Page 35: Supplemental Restraint System (Air Bag)

    Supplemental Restraint System (Air Bags) This section explains the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), or “air bag,” system. Your Buick has an air bag for the driver and for the right-front passenger. Here are the most important things to know:...
  • Page 37 Air Bag Readiness Light There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows INFLATABLE RESTRAINT. The system checks for electrical malfunctions, and the light tells you if there is a problem. INFLATABLE RESTRAINT You will see this light flash for a few seconds when you turn your ignition to “Run”...
  • Page 38 Where is the air bag? The driver’s air bag is in the middle wheel. The right-front passenger’s air bag is located the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. When is The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes.
  • Page 39 What makes an air bag inflate? In a frontal or near-frontal impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result of a crash. The sensing system triggers a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator.
  • Page 40 The air bags are designed to inflate only once. After they inflate, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system. If you don’t get them, the air bag system won’t be there to help protect you in another crash. new system will include air bag modules and possibly other parts.

  • Page 41: Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

    Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Bdck Air bags affect how your Buick should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag system in several places around your vehicle. You don’t want the system to inflate while someone is working on your vehicl‘e. Your...
  • Page 42 The best way to protect the fetus 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.
  • Page 43 Center Passenger Position Lap Belt When you sit in a center seating position, you have safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt along the belt. longer, tilt the latch plate and pull...
  • Page 44 make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t 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.
  • Page 45 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 Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the lap belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock.
  • Page 46 should go over the shoulder and across the chest. These parts the body are best able to take belt restraining forces. The safety belt locks if there’s a sudden stop or a crash. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.

  • Page 47: Children

    ChiIdren Smaller Children and Babies Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.

  • Page 49: Child Restraints

    Child Restraints Be sure to follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both. These restraints 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.
  • Page 50 Wherever you install it, be sure to secure the child restraint properly. Keep in mind that an unsecured child restraint can move around in a collision or sudden stop and injure people in the vehicle. Be sure to properly secure any child restraint in your vehicle -- even when no child is in it.
  • Page 51 If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Buick dealer to put it in for you. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it. For cars first sold in Canada, child restraints with a top strap must be anchored according to Canadian Law.
  • Page 52 5. Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is retractor to set the lock. positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
  • Page 53 6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt into the retractor 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.
  • Page 54 Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Seat Rear Position When you secure a child restraint in a center seating position, you'll be using the lap belt. See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt.
  • Page 55 4. Run the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. 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.
  • Page 56 Securing a Child Restraint in the Right Front Seat Your vehicle has a right-front passenger’s air bag. NEVER put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here’s why: You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier if the child restraint has one. section about the top strap 1.
  • Page 57 4. Pick up the latch plate, and run the lap and shoulder portions of the vehicle’s safety belt through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. If the shoulder belt goes in front of the child’s face or neck, put it behind the child restraint.
  • Page 58 7. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. 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.

  • Page 59: Largerchildren

    Larger Children Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle's safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat.
  • Page 60 What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck? Move the child toward the center be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, so that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide.

  • Page 61: Safetybeltextender

    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. This applies belt force to the child’s pelvic bones in a crash. Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it.

  • Page 62: Replacing Safety Belts After A Crash

    Replacing Safety Belts After a Crash If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts‘? After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary. But if the belts were stretched, during a more severe crash, then you need new belts. If belts are cut or damaged, replace them.
  • Page 63 Part 2 Features and Controls can learn about the many standard and optional features on your Buick. and information on starting. shifting Here . Also and braking explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working...

  • Page 64: Keys

    The ignition keys are for Keys the ignition only. The door keys are for the doors and all other locks.

  • Page 65: Doorlocks

    If you lose your keys, you’ll be able to have new ones made easily using these plugs. If your ignition keys don’t have plugs, go to your Buick dealer for the correct key code if you need a new ignition key.
  • Page 66 There are several ways to lock and unlock your vehicle: From the outside: Use your door key. From the inside: To lock the door, slide the lock control on the door down. To unlock the door, slide the lock control up. Power Door Locks (Option) Push the power door lock switch to lock or unlock all...
  • Page 67 Remote Keyless Entry System (Option) If your Buick has this option, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the key chain transmitter supplied with your vehicle. Your Remote Keyless Entry System operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules.
  • Page 68 Operation The driver’s door will unlock when pressed. If pressed again quickly, all doors will unlock. LOCK All doors will lock when will unlock when the opened trunk symbol is pressed, but only when the ignition is OFF. The interior lights will also come on when any button is pressed if the ignition is off.
  • Page 69 Test the operation of both transmitters with the vehicle. If the lock control does not work as it should, see your Buick dealer. Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years.
  • Page 70 Replace the screw in the back cover. Rear Door Security Lock Your Buick is equipped with rear door security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your car from the inside. To use one of these locks:...
  • Page 71 If you don’t cancel the security lock feature, adults or older children who ride in the rear won’t be able to open the rear door from the inside. You should let adults and older children know how these security locks work, and how to cancel the locks.
  • Page 72 The “TRUNK” button is on the instrument panel to the left of. the steering column. The transaxle must be in PARK to work. If you have the Remote Keyless Entry System, it will also unlock the trunk. NEUTRAL for...
  • Page 73 When you park your Buick and open the driver’s door, you’ll hear a chime reminding you to remove your key from the ignition and take it with you. Always do this.
  • Page 74 (see “Fuses and Circuit Breakers” in the Index). If the starter won’t work with the other key, your vehicle needs service. If your vehicle does start, the first ignition key may be faulty. See your Buick dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key%.

  • Page 75: Newvehiclebreak-In

    “SECURITY” light will flash. But you don’t have to wait three minutes before trying one of the other ignition keys. See your Buick dealer or a locksmith who can service the PASS-Key@II to have a new key made. If you’re ever driving and and the “SECURITY” light...
  • Page 76 Ignition Key Positions Your operates your ignition lock. square-headed key With the ignition key in the ignition switch, you can turn the switch to five different positions. (A) Accessory: radio and the windshield wipers when the engine is off. To use, push in the key and turn it toward you. Your steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key.

  • Page 77: Starting The Engine

    To restart when you’re already moving, “N” (Neutral) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to “PYy (Park) if your Buick is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to “P” (Park) only when your vehicle is stopped.
  • Page 78 NOTICE: Holding your key in “Start” for longer than seconds at a time will cause your battery to be drained much sooner. And the excessive heat can damage your starter motor. 2. If it doesn’t start right away, hold your key in “Start” for about three to five seconds at a time until your engine starts.
  • Page 79 The answer depends on the weather, the kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact a Buick dealer in the area where you’ll be parking your vehicle. The dealer can give you the best advice for that particular area.

  • Page 80: Shiftingthetransaxle

    “F‘” Ensure the shift lever is fully in starting the engine. Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from “P” (Park) when the ignition key is in the “Run” position. If you cannot shift out of “P”...
  • Page 81 R (Reverse) Use this gear to back up. NOTICE: Shifting to “R” (Reverse) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage your transaxle. Shift to “R” only after your vehicle is stopped. To rock your vehicle back and forth to get out of snow, ice or sand without damaging your transaxle, see “If You’re Stuck in Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow”...
  • Page 82 - Going about 35 mph (56 km/h) or more, push the accelerator all the way down. You’ll shift down to the next gear and have more power. D or 3 (Third Gear) This is like but you never go into Overdrive. Here are some times you might choose instead of When driving on hilly, winding roads...
  • Page 83 NOTICE: If your front wheels can’t rotate, don’t try to drive. This might happen if you were stuck in very deep sand or mud or were up against a solid object. You could damage your transaxle. Also, if you stop when going uphill, don’t hold your vehicle there with only the accelerator pedal.
  • Page 84 To release the parking brake: This vehicle has a push to release park brake pedal. Hold the regular brake pedal down and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot. This will unlock the pedal. When you lift your left foot, the park brake pedal will follow it to the released position.
  • Page 85 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into “P” (Park) position like this: Pull the lever toward you. Move the lever up as far as it will go. Move the ignition key to “Lock.”...
  • Page 86 Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running If you have to leave your vehicle with the engine running, be sure your vehicle is in parking brake is firmly set before you leave it. After you’ve moved the shift lever into the position, hold the regular brake pedal down.
  • Page 87 Shifting Out of “P” (Park) Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from (Park) when the ignition is in the “Run” “P’ position. See “Automatic Transaxle” in the Index.
  • Page 88 Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the air system control off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle. (See the earlier caution under “Engine Exhaust”.) Also, idling in closed-in place can let deadly’...

  • Page 89: Windows

    Follow the proper steps to be sure your vehicle won’t move. See “Shifting Into ‘P’ (Park)” in the Index. If you are parking on a hill and if you’re pulling a trailer, also see “Towing a Trailer” in the Index. Power Windows Your power window controls are on the armrest.

  • Page 90: Tilt Steering Wheel

    Horn sound the horn, press the pad with the horn symbol on the steering wheel. Tilt Wheel A tilt steering wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.
  • Page 91 Turn Signal and 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. To signal a turn, move lever all When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.

  • Page 92: Headlight High-Low Beam Lever

    If you have trailer towing option with added wiring for the trailer lights, a different turn signal flasher is used. With this flasher installed, the signal indicator will flash even if a turn signal bulb is burned out. Check the front and rear turn signal lights regularly to make sure they are working.
  • Page 93 You control the windshield wipers 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 “MIST”...

  • Page 94: Cruisecontrol

    NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready to use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid.
  • Page 95 When you apply your brakes, the Cruise Control shuts off. To Set Cruise Control 1. Move the Cruise Control switch to “ON.”...
  • Page 96 2. Get up to the speed you want. Push in the set button at the end of the lever and release it. (The “CRUISE’ light on the instrument panel will come on.) 4. Take your foot off the accelerator pedal. To Resume a Set Speed Suppose you set your Cruise Control and then you apply the brake.
  • Page 97 To Increase Speed While Using Cruise Control go to a There are two ways to higher speed. Here’s the first: 1. Use the accelerator pedal to get to the higher speed. 2. Push the button at the end of the lever, then release the button and the accelerator pedal.
  • Page 98 To Reduce Speed While Using Cruise Control There are two ways to reduce your speed while using cruise control: 1. Push in the button at the end of the lever until you reach the lower speed you want, then release it. 2.

  • Page 99: Headliehts

    To Get Out of Cruise Control There are two ways to turn off the Cruise Control: 1. Step lightly on the brake pedal, 2. Move the Cruise switch to “OFF.” (The “CRUISE” will go To Erase Speed Memory When you turn off the Cruise Control or the ignition, or shift into “P”...
  • Page 100 Press the PARK switch to turn on the parking lights. Press it again to turn them off. (If the parking lights were turned on with the PARK switch, they must be turned off with that switch). Lights “On9’ Warning If the parking light or headlight switch is left on you’ll hear a warning tone when you turn off the ignition and open the driver’s door.
  • Page 101 Rear Seat Reading Lights (Option) The light, the switch, and a coat hanger are above each rear door. Slide the switch to turn the light on or off. Courtesy Lights When any door is opened, several lights go on. They make it easy for you to enter and leave the car.

  • Page 102: Mirrors

    course, may still turn on the headlights any time you need to. To idle your vehicle with the DRL off, shift the "P" transaxle into (Park). The DRL will stay off until you shift out of "P" (Park). To turn off all exterior lighting at night when you are parked, move the twilight sentinel control from ON to OFF, if it was on from the start.
  • Page 103 The mirror mount is designed to detach during air bag deployment. Excessive force and/or excessive up, down, side-to-side adjustment can cause the mirror to detach from the windshield. If this occurs, re-install the mirror according to this procedure. Center the bottom of the mirror mount against the windshield at the top of the button.
  • Page 104 Optional If your Buick has the optional power mirror, the mirror control is located on the driver’s door. Move the switch in the middle of the control to choose the right or left mirror. Push the arrow controls in the direction you want to move the mirror.
  • Page 105 Convenience Net (Option) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it just inside the back wall of the trunk. Put small loads, like grocery bags, behind the net. It can help keep them from falling over during sharp turns or quick starts and stops.
  • Page 106 Visor Vanity Mirror (Option) This mirror is the larger of the passenger’s sun visors. It may also be on the larger of the driver’s sun visors. The lights turn on when the mirror cover is opened. The brightness of the light can be adjusted by sliding the switch.
  • Page 107 Cigarette Lighter It’s near the front ashtray. To use the cigarette lighter, push it in all the way and let go. When it’s ready, it will pop back by itself. NOTICE: If you hold a cigarette lighter in with your hand while it is heating, won’t back away from the heating element when it’s ready.

  • Page 108: Speedometer And Odometer

    (used in the U.S.) or kilometers (used in Canada). Your Buick a “tamper-resistant odometer.” If you can see very noticeable bright silver lines between the numbers, probably someone has tried to turn it back.

  • Page 109: Warning Lights, Gages And Indicators

    Trip Odometer A trip odometer can tell you how many miles you have driven since you last set it to zero. To reset it, push the button. Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This section describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle.
  • Page 110 Gages can indicate when there may be with one your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and to let you know warning lights work together there’s a problem with your vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it.
  • Page 111 When you turn the engine off, the gage doesn’t go all the way back to “E.” Low Fuel Light (Option) If you Buick has this option, a yellow light near the fuel gage will come on when you are low on fuel.
  • Page 112 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.
  • Page 113 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. If the regular brake system warning light isn’t on, you still have brakes, but don’t have anti-lock brakes.
  • Page 114 If the “TRACTION OFF” warning light comes on and stays on for an extended period needs service. Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light tr’ This light tells you that your engine coolant has overheated or your radiator cooling fans are not working.
  • Page 115 Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) SERVICE ENGINE SOON A computer monitors operation of your fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This light should come on when the ignition is on, but the engine is not running, as a check to show you it is working. If it does not come stays on, or it comes on while you are driving, the computer is indicating that you have a problem.
  • Page 116 Engine Oil Pressure Light And Gage This light tells you if there could be a problem with your engine oil pressure. If your car has cluster, you can read your oil pressure directly from the gage on your instrument panel. There are three ways this light can come on briefly, which is normal and doesn’t show a problem.
  • Page 117 “Check Oil Level’’ Light (Option) The “Check Oil Level” light is lit for three seconds as a bulb check each time the ignition key is turned to CHECK the RUN position. If the OIL LEVEL light doesn’t come on, have your vehicle serviced.
  • Page 118 If the light stays on, you need service and you should take your Buick to the dealer at once. To save your battery until you get there, turn off all accessories and set your air system to OFF.
  • Page 119 The normal range is 11 to 15 volts. If the gage reading stays in either red range, have your Buick dealer check the electrical system. Tachometer The tachometer tells you how fast the engine is going. It displays engine speed in thousands of revolutions per minute (RPM).
  • Page 120 1911 Buick Model 26 .118...
  • Page 121 ............with your Buick .
  • Page 122 R 134A refrigerant. Fresh air from outside your vehicle flows through your Buick when the car is moving. When the vehicle is not moving, you can get outside air to flow through by selecting any air choice (except the rear window defogger) and the HI fan speed.
  • Page 123 (Option) If you have this option, you can adjust the direction of the air flow to the rear seating area. If your Buick has the Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Control option, the following information tells you how it works, You will hear a beep each time a button is pushed. The display will show fan, temperature and mode settings.
  • Page 124 The system does it automatically. When the system is OFF, the ventilation system will allow air to flow through your Buick when the vehicle is moving. The system will try air at the chosen temperature. The outside...
  • Page 125 Auto AUTO is used when want the system to adjust automatically to changes in temperature. When the system is set for automatic, air will come from the floor outlets, the instrument panel outlets, or windshield outlets. Fan speed will vary (unless a blower LO or has been pushed) as the system gets to and maintains the temperature setting you have selected.
  • Page 126 The right front seat passenger dual zone function by pressing the WARM or COOL buttons on the passenger door. The indicator above the control will show the difference from the main temperature setting. To turn off this part of the system, push the DUAL ZONE button again. Fan Speeds activate the - , .
  • Page 127 If you want to raise the fan speed, push the HI button. The fan speed will increase with every push of the button until maximum speed is reached. Econ You can use ECON when you don't need to cool the outside air.
  • Page 128 Air entering the car will be evenly split between the floor outlets and the outlets near the windshield. blower speed will be controlled automatically. can choose another fan speed by pushing the HI or LO buttons. Defrost This setting directs most of the air flow toward the windshield.
  • Page 129 COOL and WARM will raise or lower the temperature. When the system is off, the ventilation system will allow air to flow through your Buick when the vehicle is moving. The system will try temperature, unless it is very hot or very cold outside.
  • Page 130 This setting provides maximum cooling with the least amount of work. MAX recirculates much of the air inside your vehicle so it maximizes your air conditioner's performance and fuel economy. Air is directed through the instrument panel outlets. Norm Use NORM for normal cooling on hot days. This setting cools outside air and directs it through the instrument panel outlets.
  • Page 131 Rear Window Defogger (Option) The lines you see on the rear window warm the glass. Press the button to start warming your window. After 10 minutes it will go off by itself, or pressing the button again during the heating cycle will shut it off. If you need additional warming time, push the button again.
  • Page 132 AM Stereo This means the Delco@ system can receive C-QUAM@ stereo broadcasts. Many AM stations around the country use C-QUAM@ to produce stereo, though some do not. (C-QUAM@ is a registered trademark of Motorola, Inc.) If your Delco@ system can get C-QUAM@, your “STEREO”...
  • Page 133 How To Operate Your Sound System To Play This Radio The Upper Knob upper knob does these things: It turns the radio on. (Rotate the volume knob clockwise.) It controls the volume. (The volume knob increases volume when rotated clockwise.) It tells you the time.
  • Page 134 Tune in the desired station. (SET Press the pushbutton. display). Within 5 seconds, push one of the four pushbuttons to store the station. Whenever you press that button, the preset station will return. In addition the 4 stations set as above, up to three additional stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjacent pushbuttons at the same time.
  • Page 135 It turns the system on and off. It controls the volume. It tells the time. (When the ignition is off, push the knob to display the time.) It allows you to hear the other side of a tape. (Press the knob while a cassette is playing.) When a radio is playing with the time displayed, the radio station frequency will display if you push the knob.
  • Page 136 Up to three more stations may be preset on each band by pressing two adjacent pushbuttons at the same time. Tune in the desired station. Press SET pushbutton. Within 5 seconds, press any two adjacent pushbuttons at the same time. (The station will return when the same two pushbuttons are pressed again.) Clock To set the clock:...
  • Page 137 Forward To advance the tape forward, press b and the tape will rapidly go forward until you press the STOP-EJECT lightly. Reverse To reverse the tape, press and the tape will rapidly go backward until you press the b button or STOP-EJECT lightly.
  • Page 138 Balance control behind the upper knob allows you to balance the sound between the right and left speakers. Notice the display arrow to see where the balance is set. The Lower Knob T u r n the lower knob to tune radio stations. The tune knob increases and decreases frequency when it is slightly rotated against the spring load.
  • Page 139 Clock To set the clock, Press the SET button. Within seconds, press and hold SCAN until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold SEEK 4 or until the correct minute appears on the display. To Adjust the Tone BASS adjusts the bass response up or down.
  • Page 140 Previous To hear a passage on the tape that has just played, press PREV and the tape will back up and stop at the first 4-second quiet spot or when you press PROG or PREV again. Next go directly to the next selection on the tape, press NEXT.
  • Page 141 Balance The BAL control behind the upper knob allows you to balance the sound between the right and left speakers. Notice the display arrow to see where the balance is set. The Lower Knob Turn the lower knob to tune radio stations. The tune knob increases and decreases station frequency when it is held slightly rotated against the spring load.
  • Page 142 Clock To set the clock: Press the SET pushbutton. Within 5 seconds, press and hold SCAN until the correct hour appears on the display. Press and hold SEEK appears on the display. To Adjust the Tone BASS adjusts the bass response up or down. TREB adjusts the treble response up or down.
  • Page 143 Random The RDM button means random and when it is pressed, it will play the tracks in a random order rather than in the sequential 1,2,3 order. Pressing RDM again will play the disc in sequential order. Reverse Press and hold REV to rapidly return to a favorite passage.
  • Page 144 Anti-Theft Feature Delco-Loc security feature for the compact disc player. It can be used or ignored. If ignored, the system plays normally. If it is used, your player won’t be usable if it’s ever stolen, because it won’t turn on. instructions below tell you how to enter your personal secret code into the system.
  • Page 145 To Unlock The System After a Power Loss When battery power reapplied to a secured radio, the radio won’t turn on and “LOC” will appear in the display. Enter your secret code as follows, pausing no more than 15 seconds between steps. 1.
  • Page 146 Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes, or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight, and extreme heat. they aren’t, they may not operate properly or cause failure of the tape player.
  • Page 147 Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, you can straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should replace it.
  • Page 148 NOTICE: Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication could damage it. NOTICE: Before entering an automatic car wash, turn off your radio to make the power antenna go down. This will prevent the mast from possibly getting damaged. If the antenna does not go down when you turn the radio off, it may be damaged or need to be cleaned.
  • Page 149 Part 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds included many other useful tips on driving Part includes: DefensiveDriving DrunkenDriving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering Passing LossofControl DrivingatNight DrivingintheRain CityDriving FreewayDriving HillandMountainRoads WinterDriving TowingaTrailer of roads and in varying weather conditions...

  • Page 150: Defensivedriving

    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, “always expect the unexpected.”...
  • Page 151 Police records show that almost half of all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol passenger or someone else, such as a pedestrian, had been drinking. In most cases, these deaths are the result of someone who was drinking and driving. About 20,000 motor vehicle-related deaths occur each year because of alcohol, and thousands of people are injured.
  • Page 152 It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces each) or 90 ml of liquor within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a slightly lower BAC level.

  • Page 153: Control Of A Vehicle

    There’s something else about drinking and driving that many people don’t know. Medical research shows that alcohol in a person’s system can make crash injuries worse. That’s especially true for brain, spinal cord and heart injuries. That means that if anyone who has been drinking driver or passenger chance of being killed or permanently disabled is higher...

  • Page 154: Braking

    Braking Braking action involves 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 up your foot and do it. That’s reaction time. Average reaction time is about 3/4 of a second. But that’s only an average.
  • Page 155 Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Your Buick has an advanced electronic braking system that will help prevent skidding. This light on the instrument panel will go on when you start your vehicle, When you start your vehicle and begin to drive away, you may hear a momentary motor or clicking noise.
  • Page 156 A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each rear wheels. The anti-lock system can change the brake pressure faster than driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions.
  • Page 157 limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. When road conditions-allow you use it again, you may re-engage the cruise control. (See “Cruise Control” in the Index.) The “TRACTION OF”” warning light will come on when you turn the traction TRACTION When the system is on, this light will come on to let you know if there’s a problem with your traction control...

  • Page 158: Steering

    Braking in Emergencies Use your anti-lock braking system when you need to. With anti-lock, you can steer and brake at the same time. In many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort.
  • Page 159 Your Buick can perform very well in emergencies like these. First apply your brakes. It is better to remove as much speed as you can from a possible collision. Then steer around the problem, to the left or right depending on the space available.

  • Page 160: Passing

    Off-Road Recovery You may find sometime that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. If the level of the shoulder is only slightly below the pavement, recovery should be fairly easy. Ease off the accelerator and then, if there is nothing in the way, steer so that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.

  • Page 161: Lossofcontrol

    Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, following too closely reduces your area of vision, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle. Also, you won’t have adequate space if the vehicle ahead suddenly slows or stops.
  • Page 162 “overdriving” those conditions. But skids are always possible. The three types of skids correspond to your Buick’s three control systems. In the braking skid your wheels aren’t rolling. In the steering or cornering skid, too much speed or steering in a curve causes tires to slip and lose cornering force.

  • Page 163: Drivingatnight

    Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired -- by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving. Drive defensively.

  • Page 164: Drivingintherain

    You can be temporarily blinded by approaching lights. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who doesn’t lower the high beams, or vehicle with misaimed headlights), slow down a little.
  • Page 165 n e heavier the rain, the harder it windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road, and even people walking. It’s wise to keep your wiping equipment in good shape and keep your windshield washer tank filled.
  • Page 166 Hydroplaning 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. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.

  • Page 167: Citydriving

    City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You’ll want to watch out for what the other drivers are doing and pay attention to traffic signals. Here are ways to increase your safety Know the best way to get to where you are going.

  • Page 168: Freewaydriving

    Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes, or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. freeway driving is: Keep The most important advice up with traffic and keep to the right. Drive at the same Just before you leave the lane, glance quickly over your shoulder to make sure there isn’t another vehicle in your “blind”...
  • Page 169 Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it. Here are some things you can check before a trip:...

  • Page 170: Hillandmountainroads

    Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it 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.
  • Page 171 Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid also levels and the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle. These parts can work hard roads. Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down.

  • Page 172: Winterdriving

    Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your Buick in good shape for winter. Be sure your engine coolant mix is correct. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply...
  • Page 173 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 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.
  • Page 174 Your anti-lock brakes improve your ability to make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-lock” in the Index. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road.
  • Page 175 blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.

  • Page 176: Towingatrailer

    Pulling a trailer improperly can aamage your vehicle and result in costly repairs not covered by your warranty. To pull a trailer correctly, follow the advice in this section, and see your Buick dealer for important information about towing a trailer with your vehicle...
  • Page 177 Your car can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the 3800 (L27) engine and proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself.
  • Page 178 And, it special equipment that you have You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at Buick Motor Division, Customer Assistance Center, 902 E. Hamilton Avenue, Flint, MI 48550.
  • Page 179 (B). If you have a “weight-distributing” hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 12% of the total loaded trailer (B). weight After you’ve loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper.
  • Page 180 Trailer Brakes your trailer weighs more than 1,000 pounds (450 kg) loaded, then it needs its own brakes adequate. Be sure to read and follow the instructions for the trailer brakes so you’ll be able to install, adjust and maintain them properly. Because you have anti-lock brakes, do not try to tap into your vehicle’s brake system.
  • Page 181 Making Turns When you’re turning with a trailer, make wider turns than normal. Do this so your trailer won’t strike soft shoulders, curbs, road signs, trees, or other objects. Avoid jerky or sudden maneuvers. Signal well in advance. Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer When you tow a trailer, your vehicle has to have a different turn signal flasher and extra wiring.
  • Page 182 Parking on Hills You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: 1.
  • Page 183 Part 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road . Part includes: ............Hazard Warning Flashers .

  • Page 184: Hazard Warning Flashers

    Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lights will flash on and off.

  • Page 185: Otherwarningdevices

    Press the button make your front and rear turn signal lights flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in, and even if the key isn’t in. When the hazard warning flashers are on, your turn signals won’t work.

  • Page 186: Jump"Starting

    Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Buick. But please follow the steps below to do it safely. NOTICE: Ignoring’these steps could result in costly damage to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered...
  • Page 187 You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in (Park) or a manual “P’ transaxle in “N” (Neutral). 3. Turn off th,e ignition on both vehicles. Turn off the radios and all lights that aren’t needed.
  • Page 188 Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose- or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock and the vehicles could be damaged.
  • Page 189 6. Connect the red positive cable to the positive terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive the vehicle has one. > 7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive terminal of the eood battery.
  • Page 190 9. Attach the cable at least 18 inches (45 cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The electrical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less. 10.

  • Page 191: Towingyourbuick

    Towing Your Car Try to have a GM dealer or a professional towing service tow your Buick. The usual towing equipment is a sling-type (A) or a wheel-lift (B) or car carrier (C) tow truck. If your vehicle has been changed or modified since it...
  • Page 192 When your vehicle is being towed, have the ignition key off. The steering wheel should be clamped in a straight-ahead position, with clamping device designed for towing service. Do not use the vehicle’s steering column lock for this. The transaxle.should be Neutral and the parking brake released.
  • Page 193 Front Towing Hookups Attach “T” hook chains behind the front-wheels into the bottom slots of the cradle rails on both sides. Position a 4” 4” wood’beam across the sling chains contacting the bottom of the radiator support. Position the lower sling crossbar just under the front bumper. Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of each lower control arm.
  • Page 194 - , -...

  • Page 195: Engineoverheating

    Engine Overheating You will find the warning light about a hot engine on your instrument panel. If you have the optional gage cluster, you may also have a coolant temperature warning gage. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine NOTICE: If your engine catches fire because you keep driving with no coolant, your vehicle can be badly damaged.
  • Page 196 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. 3.
  • Page 197 If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down. The coolant level should be at or above “FULL COLD.” If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
  • Page 198 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level isn’t at or above the “FULL COLD” mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean water (preferably distilled) and a proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant”...
  • Page 199 When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above 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.
  • Page 200 How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly to the left until it first stops. (Don’t press down while turning the pressure cap.) If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop.
  • Page 201 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to “FULL COLD.” 5. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the radiator pressure cap off. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot.

  • Page 202: Ifatiregoesflat

    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. Be sure the arrows on pressure cap line up like this. Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out”...

  • Page 203: Changingaflattire

    Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes flat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning flashers. The following steps will tell you how to use the jack and change a tire.
  • Page 204 Start with the jack and the wheel wrench. The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk.
  • Page 205 If your vehicle has an aluminum wheel with a center cover, remove by using the flat end of the wheel wrench to access the wheel nuts. If your vehicle has a wheel cover, remove it by using the flat end of the wheel wrench.
  • Page 206 If your vehicle has this aluminum wheel, you may have plastic wheel nut caps. Use the wheel nut wrench to remove the wheel nut caps and to loosen the wheel nuts. When reinstalling the decorative nut caps, tighten the caps snug with the wheel wrench, then continue l/8 rotation and 1/4 rotation for plastic caps.
  • Page 207 Remove the theft deterrent wheel nut, by placing the key end 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.
  • Page 208 jack handle has markings at 8” for the rear; 10” for the front to help you locate the jacking notches in the frame. Position the jack under the vehicle. There is a notch in the frame near each of the wheels.
  • Page 209 NOTICE: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack. Be sure to fit the jack lift head into the proper location before raising your vehicle. Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench clockwise.
  • Page 210 Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces or spare wheel. CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident.
  • Page 211 Place the spare on the wheel mounting surface. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub. Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwise.
  • Page 212 Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a criss-cross sequence as shown. 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. NOTICE:.

  • Page 213: Compactsparetire

    Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be Wa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.

  • Page 214: If You're Stuck In Sand. Mud. Ice Or Snow

    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. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.
  • Page 215 Capacities and Specifications your Buick This part begins with service and fuel information. and ............

  • Page 216: Service

    If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to get the proper Buick Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your Buick than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service Publications”...

  • Page 217: Fuel

    Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in the U.S. and CGSB 3.5-92 in Canada. These fuels should have the proper additives, so you should not have to add anything to the fuel. In the U.S.
  • Page 218 Gasolines for Cleaner Air Your use of gasoline with deposit control additives will help prevent deposits from forming in your engine and fuel system. That helps keep your engine in tune and your emission control system working properly. It’s good for your vehicle, and you’ll be doing your part for cleaner air.
  • Page 219 Filling Your Tank To take off the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). While refueling, hang the cap inside the fuel door. Place the cap on the inner most edge and turn as necessary to secure.

  • Page 220: Hoodrelease

    Be careful not to spill gasoline. Clean gasoline from painted surfaces as soon as possible. See “Cleaning the Outside of Your Buick” in the Index. When you put the cap back on, turn it to the right until you hear at least three clicks.
  • Page 221 Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood latch. The hood latch is located under the hood, near the center, and at the front edge of the grille. Lift up on this lever as you lift up on the hood.

  • Page 222: Engineoil

    Engine Accessory Belt The 3800 (L27) engine uses an engine accessory belt. This diagram shows the features connected by the belt routing. See “Maintenance Schedule” in the Index for when to check the belt. Power Steering D. Air Conditioning E. Alternator B.
  • Page 223 The engine oil dipstick is directly behind the engine fan. Turn off the engine and give the oil a few minutes to drain back into the oil pan. If you don’t, the oil dipstick might not show the actual level. To Check Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or cloth, then push it back in all the way.
  • Page 224 When to Add Oil the oil is at or below the ADD line, then you’ll need to add some oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use. For crankcase capacity, see “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index.
  • Page 225 RECOMMENDED SAE VISCOSITY GRADE ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLD STARTING, SELECT THE SAE VISCOSITY GRADE 011 FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. LOOK FOR ONE OF THESE WEATHER LABELS “F b 1 0 0 + 4 0 SAE 1OW-30 above 0°F SAE 5W-30...
  • Page 226 GM Goodwrench@ oil (in Canada, GM Engine Oil) meets all the requirements for your vehicle. Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your Buick dealer is you should look ready to advise if you think something should be added.

  • Page 227: Aircleaner

    Engine Coolant Heater (Engine Block Heater) An engine coolant heater can be a big help if to park outside in very cold weather, colder. If your vehicle has this option, see “Engine Coolant Heater” in the Index. What to Do with Used Oil Did you know that used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer? Don’t let used oil stay on your skin...

  • Page 228: Automatic Transaxle Fluid

    Index. How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you may choose to have this done at a Buick dealership Service Department. If you do it yourself, be sure to follow all the instructions here, or you could get a false reading on the dipstick.
  • Page 229 Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle fluid level if you have been driving: When outside temperatures are above 90°F (32°C). At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic -- especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C "C).

  • Page 230: Enginecoolant

    If you have a problem with engine overheating, see “Engine Overheating” in the Index. The proper coolant for your Buick will: Give freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C). Give boiling protection up to 262°F (128°C). Protect against rust and corrosion.
  • Page 231 Let the warning lights work as they should. What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets Specification 1825-M,” which won’t damage aluminum parts. You can also use a recycled coolant conforming GM Specification 1825-M with a complete coolant flush and refill.
  • Page 232 To Check Coolant When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be “FULL COLD” or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to “FULL HOT” or a little higher. To Add Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper mix at the coolant recovery tank.

  • Page 233: Power Steering Fluid

    Thermostat 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. When you replace your thermostat, an AC@ thermostat is recommended. Power Steering Fluid How To Check Power Steering Fluid Unscrew the cap and wipe the dipstick with a clean rag.

  • Page 234: Windshield Washer Fluid

    Windshield Washer Fluid To Add Open the cap labeled “WASHER FLUID ONLY.” Add washer bottle is full. NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid until the fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system.

  • Page 235: Brakes

    Brakes Brake Master Cylinder Your brake master cylinder is here. It is filled with DOT-3 brake fluid. There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in your master cylinder might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear.
  • Page 236 Index. Brake Wear DOT-3 brake Your Buick has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. (GM Part 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...
  • Page 237 Vehicles we design and test have top-quality GM brake parts in them, as your Buick does when it is new. When you replace parts of your braking system when your brake linings wear down and you have to have new ones put in -- be sure you get new genuine GM replacement parts.

  • Page 238: Battery

    Battery Every new Buick has a Delco Freedom@ battery. never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time new battery, we recommend a Delco Freedom@ battery. Get one that has the catalog number shown on the original battery’s label.
  • Page 239 Each headlamp is attached by retainers with round plastic knobs. Remove the retainers by turning in a counter-clockwise direction. Lift the headlamp away from the car. Pull the bulb socket straight out. Turn the bulb socket 1/4 turn counter-clockwise, while pressing it firmly. Remove the wire connector from the bulb by lifting the lock tab and pulling it away from the plastic base.
  • Page 240 Taillamp Bulb Replacement Open the trunk. To access the trunk taillamp bulbs, pull the carpet away from the rear area. Pull the bulb assembly straight out of the socket. Pull the bulb straight out of the assembly. Replace and reassemble. To replace the trunk lid taillamp bulbs, pull the bulb assembly straight out of the socket.

  • Page 241: Loadingyourvehicle

    Loading Your Vehicle TIRE-LOADING INFORMATION FRT. CTR. TOTAL MAX. LOADING & GVWR SAME AS VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT SPEED SIZE TIRE FRT. SPA. IF TIRES ARE HOT, ADD 4PS1/28KPa SEE OWNER‘S MANUAL FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry.
  • Page 242 NOTICE: Your warranty does not cover parts or components that fail because. of overloading. If you put things inside your vehicle-like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else- they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is crash, they'll keep going.

  • Page 243: Tires

    These tires are warranted by the tire manufacturers and their warranties are delivered with every new Buick. If your spare tire is a different brand than your road tires, you will have a tire warranty folder from each of these...
  • Page 244 Inflation Tire Pressure The Tire-Loading Information label which is edge of the driver’s door shows the correct inflation pressures for your tires, when they’re cold. “Cold” means your vehicle has been sitting for at least three hours or driven no more than a mile. NOTICE: Don’t let anyone tell you that underinflation overinflation is...
  • Page 245 Tire Inspection and Rotation To make your tires last longer, have them inspected and rotated at the mileages recommended in the Maintenance Schedule. See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. Use this rotation pattern. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressure as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label.
  • Page 246 When It’s Time for New Tires One way to tell when it’s time for new tires is to check the treadwear indicators, which will appear when your tires have only 2/32 inch (1.6 mm) or less of tread remaining. You need a new tire i f You can see the indicators at three or more places around the tire.
  • Page 247 Uniform Tire Quality Grading The following information relates 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.) Treadwear The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled...
  • Page 248 If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your Buick dealer if any of these conditions exist. Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you neea.
  • Page 249 NOTICE: also The wrong wheel can cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer/odometer calibration, headlight aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance, and tire or tire chain clearance to the body and chassis. Used Replacement Wheels Tire -Chains NOTICE: Use tire chains only where legal and only when you must.

  • Page 250: Appearancecare

    Use a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinyl or leather with a clean, damp cloth. Your Buick dealer has two GM cleaners, a solvent-type spot lifter and a foam-type powdered cleaner. They will clean normal spots and stains very well.
  • Page 251 Use solvent-type cleaners in a well-ventilated area only. If you use them, don’t saturate the stained area. If a ring forms after spot cleaning, clean the entire set. area immediately or it will Using Foam-Type Cleaner on Fabric Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. a whole trim panel or section.
  • Page 252 Special Cleaning Problems Greasy or Oily Stains Such as grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe polish, coffee with cream, chewing gum, cosmeticcreams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt. Carefully scrape off excess stain. Follow the solvent-type instructions described earlier. Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain if left on a vehicle seat fabric.
  • Page 253 Soiled leather should be cleaned immediately. If dirt is allowed to work into finish, it can harm the leather. Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use only mild soap and water clean the top surfaces of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones or waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions.
  • Page 254 High pressure car washes may cause water to enter your vehicle. Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your Buick may be necessary to remove residue from the paint finish. You can get GM approved cleaning products from your dealer.
  • Page 255 These brushes can take off the protective coating. White Sidewall Tires Your Buick dealer has a GM White Sidewall Tire Cleaner. You can use a stiff brush with the cleaner. Weatherstrips Silicone grease on weatherstrips will make them last longer, seal better, and not stick or squeak.
  • Page 256 Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Buick will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of new vehicles damaged by this fallout condition within 12 months or 12,000 miles (20 whichever comes first.
  • Page 257 Appearance Care and Maintenance Materials You can get these from your Buick dealer. USAGE Silicone Grease...

  • Page 258: Vehicle Identification Number (Vin)

    ENGINE A CODE MODEL YEAR This is the legal identifier for your Buick. It appears on a plate in the front comer of the instrument panel, on the driver’s side. You can see it if you look through the windshield from outside your vehicle. The VIN also appears on the Vehicle Certification and Service Parts labels and the certificates of title and registration.

  • Page 259: Fuses And Circuit Breakers

    Your vehicle has an air bag system. Before attempting to add anything electrical to your Buick, see “Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick” in the Index. Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your car are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit breakers The fuse panel is located under the instrument panel, next to the parking brake.
  • Page 260 Be sure you replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size and rating. There are additional fuses located behind the right sound insulator panel on the passenger side. If these require service, see your Buick dealer.
  • Page 261 Maxifuse/Relay Center check the fuses in this underhood fuse center, turn the two knobs 1/4 turn counterclockwise and remove the cover. The inside of the cover has a chart that explains the features and controls governed by each fuse and relay.
  • Page 262 Fuse Usage Description BRKR Power Window Not Used BRKR - Power Seats Not Used Not Used SIR DERM/Crank Signal/Comering/Back-up Lamps Cluster/Telltale/Chime Not Used Spare Spare Spare Spare Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Not Used Interior Illumination Not Used Not Used Not Used...
  • Page 263 Overall: ......Length ......Width .
  • Page 264 Application Exterior Headlight High Beam ......Low Beam ......Park/Turn Park Side Marker...

  • Page 265: Capacities And Specifications

    Air Conditioning Refrigerants Not all air conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrlgerant is used. If you’re not sure, ask you Buick dealer. For additional information, see your “Warranty and Owner Assistance Information” booklet.
  • Page 267 Part 7 Maintenance Schedule This part covers the maintenance required for your Buick . Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety dependability and emission control performance . Part 7 includes: ..............266 Introduction A Word About Maintenance .

  • Page 268: Introduction

    If you have any questions on how to keep your vehicle in good condition, see your Buick dealer, the place many GM owners choose to have their maintenance work done. Your dealer can be relied upon to use proper parts and practices.

  • Page 269: Your Vehicle And The Environment

    It also explains what can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition. “Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections” explains important inspections that your Buick dealer’s service department or another qualified service center should perform.

  • Page 270: Section A: Scheduled Maintenance Services

    This section tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when you should schedule them. Your Buick dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. If you go to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll know that GM-trained and...

  • Page 271: Selecting The Right Schedule

    Selecting the Right Schedule First you’ll need to decide which of the two schedules is right for your vehicle. Here’s how to decide which schedule to follow: Schedule I Is any one of these true for your vehicle? Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km). Most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km’) when outside temperatures are below freezing.

  • Page 272: Schedule1

    Scheduled Maintenance Services Schedule I Follow Schedule I if your car is MAINLY driven under one or more of the following conditions: When most trips are less than 4 miles (6 kilometers). When most trips are less than 10 miles (1 When most trips include extended idling and/or frequent low-speed operation as in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Page 273 TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules I and Item No. 6. Transaxle Service 7. Replacement* Spark 8. Spark Plug Wire Inspection*t 9. Air Cleaner Filter Replacement" 10. Fuel Tank, Cap & Lines Inspection"? The services shown in this schedule up to 48 000 miles (80 000 km) should be performed after 48 000 miles at the same intervals.

  • Page 274: Schedule11

    Scheduled Maintenance Services Schedule I1 Follow Schedule I1 ONLY if none of the driving conditions specified in Schedule I apply. TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules I and 11) Item No. 1. Engine Change* Oil Filter Change" 2.
  • Page 275 TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules and 11) Item No. 8. Spark Plug Wire Inspection*+ 9. Air Cleaner Filter Replacement* 10. Fuel Tank, Cap & Lines Inspection*+ The services shown in this schedule intervals. An Emission Control Service. U.S.

  • Page 276: Explanation Of Scheduled Maintenance Services

    Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following are explanations of the services listed in and Schedule 11. Schedule The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Section D. Make sure whoever services your vehicle uses these. All parts should be replaced and all necessary repairs done before you or anyone else drives the vehicle.
  • Page 277 5. Cooling System Service* Drain, flush and refill the system with new or approved recycled coolant conforming to GM Specification 1825M. Keep coolant at the proper mixture as specified. See “Coolant” in the Index. This provides proper freeze protection, corrosion inhibitor level and engine operating temperature.

  • Page 278: Section B: Owner Checks And Services

    Section B: Owner Checks and Services Listed below are owner checks and services which should be performed at the intervals specified to help ensure the safety, dependability and emission control performance of your vehicle. necessary repairs are completed at once. Be sure Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in...

  • Page 279: Atleastonceamonth

    At Least Once a Month WHAT TO DO Tire Inflation Check tire inflation. Make sure they are inflated to the pressures specified on the Tire-Loading Information label located on the rear edge of the driver’s door. See “Tires” in the Index for further details. Cassette Deck Clean cassette deck.
  • Page 280 CHECK OR WHAT TO DO SERVICE Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock BTSI (Automatic Transaxle) 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. It should be parked on a level surface. 2. Firmly apply the parki.ng brake (see “Parking Brake”...
  • Page 281 CHECK OR WHAT TO DO SERVICE Parking Brake and Automatic Transaxle “ P ’ (Park) Mechanism Check Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the parking brake. To check the parking brake: With the engine running and transaxle in (Neutral), slowly remove foot “...

  • Page 282: Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections

    Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your GM dealer’s service department or other qualified service center do these jobs.

  • Page 283: Section D: Recommended Fluids And Lubricants

    INSPECTION WHAT SHOULD BE DONE OR SERVICE Brake System Inspect the complete system. Inspect Inspection brake lines and hoses for proper hookup, binding, chafing, etc. Inspect disc brake pads for wear and rotors for surface condition. Also inspect drum brake wear and cracks.
  • Page 284 FLUID/LUBRICANT USAGE Parking Brake Chassis lubricant (GM Part No. Guides 1052497 or equivalent) or lubricant meeting requirements of NLGI Grade 2, Category LB or GC-LB. Power Steering GM Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid (GM Part No. 1052884 or equivalent). System Automatic DEXRON@-111 or D E X R O N ~ IIE Transaxle Automatic Transmission Fluid.

  • Page 285: Section E: Maintenance Record

    Section E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, recora me date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the columns indicated. When completing the Maintenance Performed column, insert the numbers ODOMETER SERVICED READING DATE from the Schedule which correspond to the maintenance performed.
  • Page 286 Maintenance Record ODOMETER SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED DATE READING...
  • Page 287 Part 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This Part also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects. Part 8 includes: Customer Satisfaction Procedure Assistance for Hearing/Speech Impaired .
  • Page 288 Nature of concern We encourage you to call the toll free number listed previously in order to give your inquiry prompt attention. However, if you wish to write Buick, write to: Buick Motor Division In Puerto Rico or U.S. Customer Assistance Center In all other 902 E.
  • Page 289 Customer Assistance for the Hearing or Speech Impaired (TDD) To assist customers who have hearing difficulties, Buick has installed special TDD (Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf) equipment at its Customer Assistance Center. Any hearing or speech impaired customer who has access to a TDD or a conventional teletypewriter (TTY) can communicate with Buick by dialing: 1-800-TD-BUICK.
  • Page 290 Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L l H 8P7 Courtesy Transportation To Buick Motor Division, Quality Means Service -- and service means “keeping you on the road.” Included with your 1994 Buick new car warranty, (36 or write:...
  • Page 291 Takes the anxiety out of uncertain situations by providing easy access to service professionals trained to work with Buick owners, 24-hour a day, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays. For details of Buick Roadside Assistance , please consult your Buick Roadside Assistance owner booklet included with your owner’s manual.
  • Page 292 They can help a technician service your vehicle better. Most bulletins apply to conditions affecting a small number of cars or trucks. Your Buick dealer or a qualified technician may have to determine if a specific bulletin applies to your vehicle.
  • Page 293 Subscriptions You can subscribe to all GM Product Service Publications (PSP’s). This will include bulletins for all cars sold by GM and will not be limited to PSP’s applicable to any particular model. When you buy a subscription, you will receive the PSP’s in periodic mailings, shortly after they come out.
  • Page 294 1990- 1993 model years. Copies at Participating Dealers Copies of Indexes and individual PSP’s are at your participating Buick dealer. You can ask to see them. A VERY IMPORTANT REMINDER: These PSP’s are meant for technicians. They are not meant for the “do-it-yourselfer.”...
  • Page 297 Part 9 Index A d d i n g ........BrakeFluid .
  • Page 298 Cleaner. Air Cleaning Aluminum Wheels Antenna Cassette Player Fabric Glass Inside Your Buick ....Instrument Panel Leather 134. 137 Outside Your Buick Safety Belts Underbody Maintenance...
  • Page 299 ........Courtesy Lights Courtesy Transportation ........Cruise Control Customer Assistance Hearing/Speech Impaired...
  • Page 300 Power Steering Transaxle Windshield Washer Fluids and Lubricants Recommended Foreign Operation Francais. Guide En Freeway Driving French Language Manual ......... . Fuel .
  • Page 301 ....L a b e l . Service Parts Identification Lane Change Indicator ........LapBelt Lap-Shoulder Belt.
  • Page 302 Polishing and Waxing Power Antenna DoorLocks Mirrors ........Seats Steering Steering Fluid...
  • Page 303 Security Warning Light Service and Appearance Care Service Engine Soon (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) Service Information Service Parts Identification Label Service Publications Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Buick Sheet Metal Damage Shift. Brake-Transaxle Interlock Shifting the Transaxle Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Skidding Sound Equipment.
  • Page 304 Transaxle Fluid Trip Odometer Tmnk Release. Remote Turn Signaweadlight Beam Lever Turn Signal Indicator Underbody Maintenance Unleaded Gasoline Upholstery Care Used Oil Disposal Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Vehicle Loading Vehicle Storage Ventilation Vinyl Cleaning Voltage Indicator Warning Flashers. Hazard Warning Lights Bag Readiness Anti-lock Brake System Battery...
  • Page 305 Owner’s Record of Upkeep and Fuel Usage DATE COMMENTS MILEAGE AMOUNT...
  • Page 306 Fuel Mileage Chart 105 112 120 128 136 104 112 108 117 135 144 153 162 171 I O 120 130 140 50 160 170 121 132 143 154 165 1 1 0 120 132 144 156 168 180 192 130 143 156 169 140 154 168 182 196...

Table of Contents