Buick 1993 Park Avenue Owner's Manual
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Buick 1993 Park Avenue Owner's Manual

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  • Page 1 ,\!la ' I d ? I1 I...
  • Page 3 The 1993 Buick Park Avenue Owner's Manual Litho in U.S.A. @Copyright General Motors Corporation 1992 Part No. 25603705 B First Edition All Rights Reserved...

  • Page 4: For Canadian Owners Who Prefer A French Language Manual

    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 Man- (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...
  • Page 7 1,000-mile Chicago-to-New York race in 1906. And a Buick was the f i s t car to travel across South America, driven from Buenos Aires, Argentina, over the Andes to Santiago, Chile in 19 14. Model 21 Touring Car...
  • 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 in increased sales. The torque converter automatic transmission, Dynaflow, was introduced in the 1948 Roadmaster. Buick’s famous “portholes” came along in 1949.
  • Page 9 “Car of the Year”. The first production used in the Special. I962 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.
  • Page 11 This part tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This part tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 315.

  • Page 12: How To Use This Manual

    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 CAUTION and NOTICE warnings in different colors or in different words. In this manual, we’ve used the familiar words and colors that Buick has used for years. You’ll also see warning labels on your vehicle. They use the same colors, and the words CAUTION or NOTICE.
  • Page 14 Vehicle Symbols These are some the symbols you will 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 SHIELDING...

  • Page 16: Seats And Seat Controls

    Seats and Seat Controls This section tells about the seats them, and also about memory seats, reclining 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 Memory Seat and Mirrors (Option) If your Buick has this option, the control looks like this: You can use this when you want to save a seat and mirror adjustment. Here’s how to make it work: 1. Adjust the driver’s seat to your desired position.

  • Page 18: Reclining Front Seatback(S)

    Reclining Front Seatback(s) adjust the seatback, lift the lever on the outer side of the seat. Release the lever to lock the seatback where you want it. Pull up on the lever and the seat will go to its upright position. If you have the power option, it works with the switch on the side of the...
  • Page 19 CAUTION: Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even up, your safety belts can’t do their job you’re reclined like this. CAUTION: CAUTION: (Continued) The shoulder belt can’t do its job because won’t be against you*dy. Instead, front of you.

  • Page 20: Head Restraints

    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. CAUTION: Don’t let anyone ride where they can’t wear a safety belt properly.
  • Page 21 when to “Run” or “Start” when your isn’t buckled, and you’ll hear a tone, too. It’s the reminder to buckle up. 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. crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one.

  • Page 22: Why Safety Belts Work

    Why Safety Belts Work When you or on ride in anything, goes. For example, if the bike is going 10 mph (16 km/h), so is the child. you go as fast as it When the bike hits the block, it stops. But the child keeps going!
  • Page 23 ‘E Take the simplest “car.” Suppose it’s just a seat on Put someone on it. wheels.
  • Page 24 “ 1 i t . Get it up to speed. Then stop the “car.” The rider doesn’t The person keeps going until stopped by something. stop. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...
  • Page 25 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 26: About Safety Belts And The Answers

    Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers Won’t 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. But you can easily unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.

  • Page 27: Safety Belt Reminder Light

    There are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for babies and smaller children. If a child will be riding in your Buick, see the section after this .*.. one, called “Children.” Follow those rules for...

  • Page 28: Driver Position

    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 29 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 it clicks. 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 faces upward or outward so you would be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever had to.
  • Page 30 The safety belt locks if there's a sudden stop or a crash. 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 it down a to make sure it has locked into position.
  • Page 31 . ^ . 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 32 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. CAUTION: can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt loose. In a crash yow would too much, which could Increase hjury. The shoulder belt should against your body.
  • Page 33 The belt is buckled in the wrong place. You can be seriously injured if your belt buckled in the wrong place like this. In a crash, the belt would go up over your abdomen. The belt forces would be there, not at the pelvic bones.
  • Page 34 The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. be worn over the shoulder You can be seriously injured shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren't as strong You could also severely injure internal organs...
  • Page 35 e." What's wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn't have the belt to take impact forces. If a belt is make work properly, or ask it straight your dealer to fix To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle.
  • Page 36 Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle. Supplemental Inflatable Restraint System/Supplemental Restraint System (Air Bag) This section explains the driver's Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR)/Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) system, commonly referred to as an air bag.
  • Page 37 CAUTION: Air bags inflate with great force, faster than the blink of an’eye. If you’re too close to an inflating air bag, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for an air bag inflation in a crash. Always wear your safety belt, even with an air bag, and sit as far back as you can while still maintaining control of your vehicle.

  • Page 38: How The Air Bag System Works

    How The Air Bag System Works Where is the air bag? The driver's air bag is in middle wheel. When is an air bag expected to inflate? The air bag is designed to inflate in moderate frontal or near-frontal crashes. The air bag will only inflate if the velocity of the impact is above the designed threshold level.
  • Page 39 What makes an air bag inflate? frontal impact of sufficient severity, sensors strategically located the vehicle detect that the vehicle is suddenly stopping as a result sensors complete an electrical circuit, triggering a chemical reaction of the sodium azide sealed in the inflator.
  • Page 40 Servicing Your Buick with the Air Bag System Please tell or remind anyone who works on your Buick that it has the air bag system. 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...

  • Page 41: Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

    Turn off the ignition. Remove the SlR/SRS (air bag) Circuit Breakers” in the Index). Disconnect the yellow connector at the base steering column. When the work is complete, if the air bag system was disconnected, be sure to reattach everything and replace the fuse before turning the ignition on.

  • Page 42: Right Front Passenger Position

    Right Front Passenger Position The right front passenger’s safety belt works the same way as the driver’s safety belt. See “Driver Positi,on,” earlier in this part. When the lap portion of the belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it start again.

  • Page 43: Rear Seat Outside Passenger P.ositions

    When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
  • Page 44 The positions next to the windows have lap-shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear 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. When the lap belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock.
  • Page 45 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 CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt if your shoulder belt is too loose.

  • Page 46: Smaller Children And Babies

    Children Everyone in. a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. In fact, the law in every state and Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle. Smaller Children and Babies CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be...
  • Page 47 CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms white riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much crash. During a crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-pound (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become force on your arms.

  • Page 48: Child Restraints

    Child Restraints 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 The instructions that come with the infant or child restraint will show you how to do that.

  • Page 49: Top Strap

    I f your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. If you need to have an anchor installed, you can ask your Buick dealer to put it in for YOU. install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell...
  • Page 50 Secure the child in child restraint as the instructions say. Pull out the vehicle’s safety belt and run the lap part through or around the restraint. The child restraint instructions will show you how. the shoulder belt would child’s face or neck. If put it behind the child restraint.
  • Page 51 6. To Pull the rest of the lap belt all the way out of the tighten the belt, feed the lap belt into the retractor retractor to set the lock. while you push down on the child restraint. ' 5 .

  • Page 52: Securing A Child Restraint In A Center Seat Position

    7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. 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.
  • Page 53 See the earlier section about the top strap if the child restraint has one. 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch plate and pulling it along the belt. 2. Put the restraint on the seat. Follow the instructions for the child restraint.
  • Page 54 Push and pull the child restraint in different be sure directions it is secure. If the child restraint isn’t secure, turn the latch plate over and buckle it again. Then see if 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.
  • Page 55 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button faces upward or outward, so you’ll be able to unbuckle it quickly if you ever need to. the lap belt all the way out of the Pull the rest retractor to set the lock. 6.
  • Page 56 7. Push and pull the child restraint in different directions to be sure it is secure. To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle safety belt and let it back all the way. The safety belt will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger.
  • Page 57 Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat. But they need to use the safety belts properly. Children who aren’t buckled up can strike other people who are. ’ crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured.
  • Page 58 What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small thatthe shoulder belt is verv close to the child’s face or neck? Move the child toward the center of the vehicle, but be sure that the shoulder belt still is on the child’s shoulder, that in a crash the child’s upper body would have the restraint that belts provide.

  • Page 59: Safety Belt Extender

    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 60 If your seat adjuster won’t work after of the part safety belt that goes through the adjuster may need be replaced. What’s wrong with this? The belt is torn. a crash, the special seat to the Torn or crash. They can rip apart under impact forces. a belt is torn or frayed, get a new one right away.

  • Page 61: Table Of Contents

    Part 2 Features 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...

  • Page 62: Keys

    Keys CAUTION: Leaving young children in a vehicle with the ignition key is dangerous for many reasons. A child or others could be badly injured or 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..
  • Page 63 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 64: Doorlocks

    Door Locks ’ CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dang Passengers especially children - ! open the doors and fall out. When a door i locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an door when you slow down or stop your This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors aren’t locked.

  • Page 65: Power Door Locks

    From the inside: To lock the door, move the lock control on the door down. unlock the door, move the lock control on the door up. Power Door Locks Push a power door lock switch to lock or unlock all of the doors.

  • Page 66: Leaving Your Vehicle

    You can program the automatic door lock feature to allow the doors to remain locked after you shift into “P” (Park). do this: 1. Close your doors and turn the ignition ON. Keep your foot on the brake pedal. Press and hold the driver’s power door lock switch. Move your shift lever out of “P”...

  • Page 67: Remote Trunk Release

    Trunk Remote Trunk Release The trunk release switch in the glove box must be ON for the TRUNK button to work. This feature allows you to secure items in the trunk. To secure, turn OFF the TRUNK RELEASE, lock the glove box, then take the door key with you.

  • Page 68: Operation

    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 69 Illuminated Entry System If your Buick also has this option, the keytag will make it work. Touch any button on the keytag to light up the door locks and the inside your car.

  • Page 70: Battery Replacement

    Test the operation of both transmitters with the vehicle. the lock control does not work as it should, see your Buick dealer. erases the system Battery Replacement Under normal use, the batteries in your key chain transmitter should last about two years.

  • Page 71: Rear Door Security Lock

    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: 1. Move the lever on...
  • Page 72 You’ll be able to see where to put the door key when it’s dark, and the lights inside your Buick will go on. They’ll go off when you start your engine, or when 25 seconds have passed. If you have the Remote Keyless Entry System option, it can make the illuminated entry system work too.
  • Page 73 Lock all the doors except the driver’s. Then take the door key with you. Universal Theft Deterrent (Option) If your Buick has this option, it has a theft deterrent alarm system. With this system, the “SECURITY’’ light will flash as open the door (if your ignition is off).
  • Page 74 will sound for several minutes, then will battery power. Remember, the theft deterrent system won’t arm if you lock the doors with a key or manual door lock. It arms only if you use power door lock switch or Remote Keyless Entry System.
  • Page 75 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 I1 If you accidentally use a key that has a damaged or missing resistor pellet, the starter won’t work and the...

  • Page 76: Newvehiclebreak-In

    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 I1 to have a new key made. If you’re ever driving and the “SECURITY” light comes on for one minute and stays on, you will be able to restart your engine if you turn it off.

  • Page 77: Ignition Key Positions

    Ignition Key Positions Your square-headed key operates your ignition lock. This lock gives you five different positions. Before you put the key in, your ignition will be in the “Lock” position. This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft deterrent feature.

  • Page 78: Starting Your Engine

    steering wheel will remain locked, just as it was before you inserted the key. OFF: This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel. It doesn’t lock the steering wheel like “Lock.” Use “Off’ if in motion while the engine is off (for example, if your car is being pushed).
  • Page 79 Move your shift lever to “P” (Park) or “N” (Neutral). Your engine won’t start in any other position safety feature. To restart when you’re already moving, use “N” (Neutral) only. Don’t try to shift to “P” (Park) if your Buic could moving.
  • Page 80 Your engine is designed to work with the electronics in your vehicle. If you add electrical parts or accessories, you could change the way If you ever have to have your vehicle towed, see of this Manual that tells how to do it the part without damaging your vehicle.

  • Page 81: Driving Through Deep Standing Water

    Driving Through Deep Standing Water standing water, water can come in through your engine's air intake and badly damage your engine. If you can't avoid deep puddles or standing water, drive through them very s Engine Block Heater (Canada Only) "...

  • Page 82: Automatic Transaxle

    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...
  • Page 83 Index. Ensure the shift lever is fully in “P” (Park) range before 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”...
  • Page 84 CAUTION: ’ Shifting out of “PYy (Park) or “N” (Neutral) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the brake pedal, your vehicle could move very rapidly. You could lose control and hit people or objects.

  • Page 85: Automatic Ride Control

    NOTICE: Don’t drive in “2” (Second Gear) for more than 5 miles (8 km), or at speeds over 55 mph (88 or you can damage your transaxle. Use “D” “3” as much as possible Don’t shift into “2” unless you are going slower than 65 mph (105 km/h), or you can damage your 1 (First Gear) This position gives you even more power (but lower...

  • Page 86: Parking Brake

    Parking Brake The parking brake uses the brakes on the rear wheels. 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 come on.

  • Page 87: Shifting Into "P" (Park)

    Driving with the parking brake on can cause youkz.,--.I rear brakes to overheat. You may have to replace- them, and you could also damage other parts of are on a hill: See “Parking That section shows how to turn your front wheels. you are towing a trailer and are parking on any hill: See “Towing a Trailer”...
  • Page 88 into “P” 2. Move the shift lever (Park) position like this: Pull the lever toward you. Move the lever up 7. : - as far as it will go. 3. Move the ignition key to “Lock.” 4. Remove the key and take it with you. If you can walk away from your vehicle with the ignition key in “P”...

  • Page 89: Leaving Your Vehicle With The Engine Running

    “P” (Park). Shifting Out of Your Buick has a brake-transaxle shift interlock. You have to fully apply your regular brake before you can shift from “P” (Park) when the ignition is in the “Run”...

  • Page 90: Parking Over Things That Burn

    Parking Over Things That Burn CAUTION: Things that can burn could touch hot exhaust parts under your vehicle and ignite. Don't park over papers, leaves, dry grass or other things that can burn. Engine Exhaust CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can't see or smell.

  • Page 91: Running Your Engine While You're Parked

    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 could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”).

  • Page 92: Windows

    Power Windows Your power window controls are on the armrest. 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. window from lowering, push the switch forward. To partially open the window, pull the switch back and quickly release it.

  • Page 93: The Turn Signal/Headlight Beam Lever

    The Turn Signal/Headlight Beam Lever The lever on the left side of the steering column includes your: Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator Headlight High-Low Beam & Passing Signal Windshield Wipers Windshield Washer Cruise Control Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for Right) and two downward (for Left) positions.

  • Page 94: Operation Of Lights

    A green arrow on the instrument panel will flash in the direction of the turn or lane change. signal a lane change, just raise or lower the lever until the green arrow starts to flash. Hold it there until complete your lane change. The lever will return by itself when you release it.

  • Page 95: Headlight High-Low Beam

    Headlight High-Low Beam change the headlights from low beam to high or high to low, pull the turn signal lever. all the way toward you. Then release it. When the high beams are on, this blue light on the instrument panel also will be on.

  • Page 96: Windshield Washer

    Heavy snow or ice can overload your wipers. A circuit breaker will stop them until the motor cools. Clear away snow or to prevent overload. Windshield Washer At the top the multifunction lever there’s a paddle with the word “PUSH” on it. To spray washer fluid on the windshield, push the paddle for less than a second.
  • Page 97 CAUTION: Driving without washer fluid can be dangerous. A bad mud splash can block your vision. You could hit another vehicle or go off the road. Check your washer fluid level often. In freezing weather, don’t use your washer until the windshield is warmed. Otherwise the washer fluid can form ice on the windshield, blocking your vision.

  • Page 98: Cruisecontrol

    Cruise Control With Cruise Control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more without keeping your the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise Control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 km/h).

  • Page 99: To Set Cruise Control

    To Set Cruise Control CAUTION: If you leave your Cruise Control switch on when you’re not using Cruise, you might hit and go into Cruise when you don’t want to. could be startled and even lose control. Keep the Cruise Control switch “OFF” until you want to use it.
  • Page 100 To Resume a Set Speed set your Cruise Control at Suppose and then you apply the brake. This, of course, shuts off the Cruise Control. But you don’t need to reset it. Once you’re going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the Cruise Control switch from “ON”...
  • Page 101 Here’s second way to go a higher s.peed: 1. Move the Cruise switch from to “Resume/ Accelerate,” Hold it there until release the switch. 2. To increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to “Resume/Accelerate” for less than half a second and then release it.
  • Page 102 rassmg Anomer Vehicle While Using Cruise Control Use the accelerator pedal to increase your speed. When you take your foot off the pedal, your vehicle will slow down to the Cruise Control speed you set earlier. Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your Cruise Control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load, and the steepness of the hills.

  • Page 103: Panel Lights

    To Erase Speed Memory When you turn off the Cruise Control or the ignition, or shift into “P” (Park), your Cruise Control ,set speed memory is erased. Lights This switch controls these light systems: Headlights Taillights Parking Lights License Lights Sidemarker Lights Instrument Panel Lights Press the LIGHTS switch’to turn the headlights on.
  • Page 104 Twilight Sentinel (Option) Twilight Sentinel turns your lights on and off by sensing how dark it is outside. To operate it, leave the light switch off and move the Twilight Sentinel control to any position but MIN. If you move the control all the way to MAX, your lights will remain on for three minutes after you turn off your engine.

  • Page 105: Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only)

    Daytime Running Lights (Canada Only) The Canadian Federal Government has decided that “Daytime Running Lights” (DRL) are a useful feature, in that DRL can make your vehicle more visible to pedestrians and other drivers during daylight hours. DRL are required on new vehicles sold in Canada. Your DRL work with a light sensor on top of the instrument panel.
  • Page 106 Front Seat Reading Lights Front seat reading lights are turned on by pressing the LAMP switch. Rear Seat Reading Lights You may also have reading lights in the rear seat. > -...
  • Page 107 Lamp Monitors (Option) This system will let you know when certain exterior light bulbs fail to light. When you first start your car all eight lights come on briefly to show that the system is working. When a bulb fails an indicator will flash for several seconds and then stay on until the failed bulb is replaced and lit.
  • Page 108 PI\, Polr Automatic Your Buick may have the automatic inside mirror. The automatic mirror adjusts for the glare of headlights behind you. It detects changes in light, and then adjusts for day or night operation.

  • Page 109: Time Delay

    Settings MIN: The minimum setting is suggested when driving where glare conditions change often. “Min” works well for city driving at night. MAX: Maximum sensitivity is a good setting for highway driving in light traffic. The mirror starts to darken in any glare, such as headlights a long way behind your car.

  • Page 110: Convex .Outside Mirror

    Outside Mirrors Your Buick has the electric mirror control located on the driver’s door. Move the switch in the middle of the control to choose the right or left mirror. To adjust the mirror, push the arrow control in the direction you want the mirror to go.

  • Page 111: Convenience Net (Option)

    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 112 Garage Door Opener Storage The garage door opener storage area is located in the headliner. To be able to use your garage door opener in the storage area you will have to find a pin and hole combination for your garage door opener, see the following chart.
  • Page 113 1. To place your garage door opener in the storage area, carefully open the cover with a screwdriver, as shown, by inserting the screwdriver and prykg the cover down. 2. Next, carefully pry the panel tabs out of the slots in the cover to disassemble the panel and lever.

  • Page 114: Electronic Level Control

    5. If the adhesive strips won’t hold your opener in place, tie down loops may be used. 6. Place lever in cover so that pivots are positioned as shown. 7. Snap the panel with your garage door opener into the cover. If your garage door opener doesn’t work after installed, another pin and hole combination will havetto be tried.

  • Page 115: Storage Armrest

    (interior). door is left ajar for 10 minutes, the interior lights will automatically shut off. Assist Handles A folding handle over each rear door and the front passenger's door can be used in getting in or out of your Buick.
  • Page 116 Dual Sun Visors Each sunvisor has two parts, so that both the windshield and door glass can be shaded at the same time. Visor Vanity Mirror (Option) This mirror is on the larger of the passenger’s sun visors. may also be on the larger of the driver’s sun visors.
  • Page 117 Rear License Plate Holder The rear ashtrays may also be removed for cleaning To use it, open the trunk lid and slide your license plate into the slot. Always close the trunk to prevent theft of the plate. Ashtrays The front center ashtray may be removed for cleaning. C I - .

  • Page 118: Cigarette Lighter

    Cigarette Lighter To use It's near the ashtray. one, 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, it won't be able to back away from the heating element when it's ready.

  • Page 119: Trip Odometer

    (used in the U.S.) or kilometers (used in Canada). Your Buick has 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 120 your warning lights and gages could also save you or others from injury. Warning lights go on when there may be or is a problem with one of your vehicle’s functions. As you will see in the details on the next few pages, some warning lights come on briefly when you turn the ignition key just to let you know they’re working.

  • Page 121: Brake System Warning Light

    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.

  • Page 122: Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light

    Then start the engine reset the system. If the light still stays on, or comes on again while you’re driving, your Buick needs service. Unless the regular brake system warning light is also on, you will still have brakes, but not anti-lock brakes.
  • Page 123 If the warning light stays on after you replace the compact spare with full-size tire, or if it comes on you’re again when driving, your Buick needs service. Traction Control System Warning Light (Option) The “TRACTION warning light means that the system is not working.

  • Page 124: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage

    NOTICE: Spinning your wheels when the “TRACTION OFF” warning light is on can destroy parts of your vehicle as well as the tires. If you spin your wheels too fast while shifting your transaxle back and forth, you can destroy your transaxle. When you’re stuck, spin the wheels as little as possible.

  • Page 125: Low Coolant Warning Light

    have been operating your vehicle under normal driving conditions, you should pull off the road, stop your vehicle and turn off the engine as soon as possible. HOT COOLANT CAN BURN YOU BADLY! In “Problems on the Road,” this manual shows what to do.

  • Page 126: Oil Level

    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. But, when this light comes on and stays on, it means oil isn’t going through your engine properly.

  • Page 127: Change Oil Soon

    “Change Oil Soon” Light (Option) This light is activated by the Engine Oil Life Monitor System. It indicates that the engine oil CHANGE has degraded enough to require changing. (See SOON “Engine Oil” in the Index). This is determined by electronically monitoring engine speed, coolant temperature and vehicle speed.
  • Page 128 Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon Light) SERVICE SERVICE ENGINE SO0 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.
  • Page 129 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. Volts Gage If you have the optional gage cluster, you have this gage that shows voltage in the electrical system.
  • Page 130 Door Ajar Light (Option) When the ignition is ON, this light will stay on until all the doors are closed and completely latched. Trunk Ajar Light (Option) this light stays on with the ignition ON, it means that the trunk lid is open or not completely latched.

  • Page 131: Part 3 Comfort Controls & Audio Systems

    Part 3 Comfort Controls In this part you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control systems and audio systems offered with your Buick Be sure to read about the particular system supplied with your vehicle Part 3 includes: ............

  • Page 132: Outside Air

    Outside Air 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...
  • Page 133 If your Buick has the Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Control option, it looks like this: 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 134 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 to keep the air at the chosen temperature, unless it is very hot or very cold. The outside temperature will show in the display area when the system is OFF.
  • Page 135 Auto When the system is set for automatic, air will come from the - * F B r instrument panel outlets or both. Fan speed will vary AUTO (unless a blower LO or HI button has been pushed) as the system gets to and maintains the temperature setting you have selected.

  • Page 136: Fan Speeds

    The right front seat passenger DUAL ZONE 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. Fan Speeds The speed of the blower fan is controlled automatically if you have the fan on AUTO.
  • Page 137 Econ You can use you don't need to cool the outside air. The system will work like the AUTO mode without cooling. The air flow will come from the instrument panel outlets. ECON does not have the blower delay feature as the AUTO mode setting.

  • Page 138: Rear Window Defogger

    Defrost This setting will direct most of the air flow toward the windshield. Use DEFROST when there is fog or ice on the-windshield. Defrost will work better if any ice and snow is cleared from the hood and the air inlet area between the hood and the windshield.

  • Page 139: Lever Controls

    If your Buick has the Electronic Touch Climate Control System, the following information tells works. Fan Speeds The fan control is used to select the speed blower to control the air flow. Lever Controls The upper lever changes the fan speeds. The lower lever changes the temperature of the air coming through your air outlets.
  • Page 140 The Bi-level setting directs outside air into your vehicle in two ways. Cool air is directed toward your upper body through instrument panel outlets, while slightly warmed air is directed through the heater outlet at your feet. The air conditioner compress& operates in all Air Conditioning positions and the Defrost position when the outside temperature is above 48 When you don’t need to cool the outside air, use the...

  • Page 141: Audio Systems

    Rear Window Defogger 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.
  • Page 142 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.) your Delco@ system can get C-QUAM@, your “STEREO”...
  • Page 143 To Play This Radio The Upper Knob The upper knob does these things: It turns the system on and off. It controls the volume. It tells you the time. (When the ignition is off, push the knob to display the time.) It allows you to hear the orner side of a tape.
  • Page 144 Pushbuttons The four pushbuttons let you return You can set the pushbuttons for up to fourteen stations (7 AM and 7 FM). Tune in the desired station. Press the SET pushbutton. SET appears in the display. Within seconds, push one of the four pushbuttons. Whenever you press that button, the preset station will return.
  • Page 145 To Play A Cassette Your tape player is built to work best with tapes that are minutes long on each side. Tapes longer than that are thin they may not work well in this player. With the radio on, press a tape into the slot marked AUTO REVERSE (the tape side goes in first).
  • Page 146 To Play This Radio To turn the radio on, press the PWR button. The Upper Knob The upper knob does these things: It controls the volume. The volume knob increases and decreases volume when it is held slightly rotated against the spring load. It allows you to mute the radio or tape play.
  • Page 147 SCAN When you press SCAN, the radio will go to the next station and pause and keep doing that until SCAN again. SC will appear in the display. Pushbuttons The five pushbuttons let you return to favorite stations. can set the pushbuttons for up to ten stations ( 5 AM 5 FM).
  • Page 148 PROG To go from one side of the tape to PROG button. The PROG button will also stop REV, FWD, PREV or NEXT and play the tape. Cr02 This button sets the tape bias. When playing high bias chrome or metal tapes, press the button to turn the Cr02. on.
  • Page 149 To Play This Radio To turn the radio on, press the PWR button. The Upper Knob The upper knob does these things: It controls the volume. The volume knob increases and decreases volume when it is held slightly rotated against the spring load. It allows you to mute the radio or tape player.
  • Page 150 SCAN When you press SCAN, the radio will go to the next station and pause and keep doing that until you press SCAN again. SC will appear in the display. Pushbuttons The five pushbuttons let you return to favorite stations. You can set the pushbuttons for up to ten stations ( 5 AM and 5 FM).
  • Page 151 Once the tape is playing, use the upper and lower knobs for volume, and fade just as you did for radio. The arrow in the graphic.display above the word TAPE indicates which side of the tape is being played. When the end of the tape is reached, it will automatically reverse and play the other side of the tape.
  • Page 152 . r . To Play This Radio To turn the radio on, press the PWR button. The Upper Knob The upper knob does these things: It controls the volume. The volume knob increases and decreases volume when it is held slightly rotated against the spring load.

  • Page 153: To Play A Compact Disc

    SCAN When you press SCAN, the radio will go to the next station and pause and keep doing that until you press SCAN again. SC will appear in the display. Pushbuttons The five pushbuttons let you return to favorite stations. You can set the pushbuttons for up to ten stations ( 5 AM and 5 FM).
  • Page 154 Insert disc partway into slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. Wait a few seconds and the disc should play. If the disc comes back out, check whether: The disc is upside down. It is dirty, scratched, or wet. There’s too much moisture in the air.

  • Page 155: Anti-Theft Feature

    Press the PWR button or turn the ignition key off to stop the disc player. The disc stays in the player and will resume playing at the point where it stopped. EJECT Press EJCT, the disc will eject and the radio will play. The disc will start at track when you reinsert it.
  • Page 156 To Unlock The System After a Power Loss When battery power is reapplied to a secured radio, the radio won’t turn on and “LOC” will appear in the display. Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps. Step 1.

  • Page 157: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player

    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. If they aren’t, they may not operate properly or cause failure of the tape player.

  • Page 158: Fixed Mast Antenna

    Fixed Mast Antenna The fixed mast antenna can withstand most car washes without being damaged. If the mast should ever become slightly bent, you straighten it out by hand. If the mast is badly bent, as it might be by vandals, you should replace it.
  • Page 159 NOTICE: Don’t lubricate the power antenna. Lubrication could damage it. NOTICE: If the mast portion of your antenna is damaged, you can easily replace it. See your dealer for a replacement kit and follow the instructions in the kit.
  • Page 160 I931 Buick Model 90...

  • Page 161: Part 4 Your Driving And The Road

    Part 4 Your Driving and the Road ~~~~~ Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions included many other useful tips on driving . Part 4 includes: ............... RoadSigns .

  • Page 162: Roadsigns

    Road Signs The road signs you see everywhere are coded by color, shape and symbols. It’s a good idea to know these codes so that you can quickly grasp the basic meaning or intent of the sign even before you have a chance to read it.
  • Page 163 RAILROAD ADVANCE CROSSING YELLOW indicates a general warning. Slow down and be careful when you see a yellow sign. It may signal a railroad crossing ahead, a no passing zone, or some other potentially dangerous situation. Likewise, a yellow solid line painted on the road means “Don’t Cross.’’ NARROW AHEAD FLAGGER...
  • Page 164 E X I T MILE GREEN is used to guide the driver. Green signs may indicate upcoming freeway exits or show the direction you should turn to reach a particular place. HOSPITAL YT UN BLUE signs with white letters show motorists’ services.
  • Page 165 Shape of Road Signs The shape of the sign will tell you something, too. An OCTAGONAL (eight-sided) sign means STOP. It is always red with white ST0 P letters. $& A DIAMOND-shaped sign is a warning of something ahead example, a curve, steep hill, soft shoulder, or a narrow bridge.
  • Page 166 LEFT OR KEEP THROUGH RIGHT RECTANGULAR (square or oblong) signs show speed limits, parking regulations, give directions, and such information as distances to cities. Symbols on Road Signs I I o N L V ! RIGHT TURN ONLY There are many international road signs in use today. The basic message of many of these signs is in pictures or graphic symbols.

  • Page 167: Traffic Lights

    Traffic Lights We’re all familiar with traffic lights or stop lights. Often green arrows are being used in the lights for improved traffic control. On some multilane roads, green arrows light up, indicating that traffic in one or more lanes move or make a turn.

  • Page 168: Defensivedriving

    The next section discusses some of the road conditions you may encounter. 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.) source important...

  • Page 169: Drunkendriving

    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. Expect children to dash out from behind parked cars, often followed by other children.
  • Page 170 Police records show that half all motor vehicle-related deaths involve alcohol - a driver, a passenger or someone else, such as a pedestrian, had been drinking. In most cases, these deaths are the result someone who was drinking and driving. Over 25,000 motor vehicle-related deaths occur each year because of alcohol, and thousands of people are injured.
  • Page 171 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. NUMBER OF DRINKS (as in piclure) 160 180 BODY WEIQHT IN POUNDS The law in most U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent.

  • Page 172: Control Of A Vehicle

    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 than if that person had not been drinking.

  • Page 173: 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 174: Anti-Lock Brakes (Abs)

    Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) Your Buick has an advanced electronic braking system ‘I that will help prevent skidding. This light on the instrument panel will go on when you start your vehicle.
  • Page 175 Here’s how anti-lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely. Suddenly an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Here’s what happens with ABS. A computer senses that wheels are slowing down. The computer separately works the brakes at each front wheel and at the rear wheels.

  • Page 176: Traction Control System (Option)

    “Traction Control System Warning Light” in the Index. Disc Brake Wear Indicators 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...

  • Page 177: Rear Drum Brakes

    and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal firmly). CAUTION: The brake wear warning sound means that sooner or later your brakes won’t work well. That could lead to an accident. When you hear the brake wear warning sound, have your vehicle serviced.

  • Page 178: Braking In Emergencies

    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. many emergencies, steering can help you more than even the very best braking. Steering Power Steering you lose power steering assist because the engine stops the system fails function, you can steer but it...

  • Page 179: Steering In Emergencies

    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 180: Off-Road Recovery

    Off-Road Recovery 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 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 that your vehicle straddles the edge of the pavement.
  • Page 181 So here are some tips for passing: “Drive ahead.” Look down the road, crossroads for situations that might affect your passing patterns. you have any doubt whatsoever about making a successful pass, wait for a better time. Watch for traffic signs, pavement markings, and lines.

  • Page 182: Lossofcontrol

    “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 183: Drivingatnight

    vehicle is skidding. Learn to recognize warning clues such as enough water, ice or packed snow on the road to and slow down when you make a “mirrored surface” have any doubt. Remember: Any anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps avoid only the braking skid. Steer the way Driving at Night ...,.

  • Page 184: Night Vision

    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 to see the same thing at night as a 20-year-old. What you do in the daytime can also affect your night vision.

  • Page 185: Drivingintherain

    makes inside glass surfaces very filmy and vision hazard if it’s left there. Dirty glass makes lights dazzle and clean glass would, making the pupils of your eyes contract repeatedly. You might even want to keep a cloth and some glass cleaner in your vehicle if you need to clean your glass frequently.
  • Page 186 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 on dry pavement. The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your 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...

  • Page 187: Some Other Rainy Weather Tips

    CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.

  • Page 188: Driving In Fog, Mist And Haze

    Driving in Fog, Mist and Haze Fog can occur with high humidity or heavy frost. It can mild that you can see through it for several hundred feet (meters). Or it might be so thick that you can see only a few feet (meters) ahead. It may come suddenly to an otherwise clear road.

  • Page 189: Citydriving

    Tips on Driving in Fog If you get caught in fog, turn your headlights beam, even in daytime. You’ll see better. Don’t use your high beams. The light will bounce off the water droplets that make up fog and reflect back at you.

  • Page 190: Freewaydriving

    Here are ways tohcrease your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where Try not to drive around trying to pick out a familiar street or landmark. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would cross-country trip.
  • Page 191 too-slow driving breaks a smooth traffic flow. Treat the left lane on a freeway as a passing lane. Entering the Freeway At the entrance there is usually a ramp mat leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic.

  • Page 192: Driving A Long Distance

    If it needs service, have it done before starting out. Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be km/h) might ready and willing to help if you need it.

  • Page 193: On The Road

    long-distance driving? Are the tires all inflated to the recommended pressure? Weather Forecasts: What’s the weather outlook along your route? Should you delay your trip a short time to avoid a major storm system? Maps: Do you have up-to-date maps? On the Road Unless you are the only driver, it is good to share the driving task with others.

  • Page 194: Hillandmountainroads

    Then here are some tips: Make sure your vehicle is well ventilated, with comfortably cool interior. Keep your eyes moving. Scan the road ahead and to the sides. Check your rearview mirrors frequently and your instruments from time help you avoid fixed stare.
  • Page 195 Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some slowing down. Don’t make your brakes do it all. Shift to a lower gear when you go down a steep or long hill.

  • Page 196: Parkingonhills

    Parking on Hills Hills and mountains mean spectacular scenery. But please be careful where you stop if you decide to look at the view or take pictures. Look for pull-offs or parking areas provided for scenic viewing. Another part of this manual tells how to use your parking brake (see “Parking Brake”...
  • Page 197 Parking Uphill If there is a curb, your wheels to the left if the curb turn is at the right side of your vehicle. If you’re going uphill on a one-way street and you’re parking on the left side, your wheels should point to the right.
  • Page 198 If there is no curb when you’re parking uphill, turn the wheels to the right. If there is no curb when you’re parking uphill on the left side of a one-way street, your wheels should be turned to the left. Torque Lock (Automatic Transaxle) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your “P”...

  • Page 199: 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. Snow tires can help in loose snow, but they may give you less traction on ice than regular tires. If you do...

  • Page 200: Driving On Snow Or Ice

    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 lot less traction or “grip”...

  • Page 201: If You're Caught In A Blizzard

    If You're Caught in a Blizzard 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 help and keep yourself and your passengers safe: Turn on your hazard flashers.
  • Page 202 CAUTION: Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas to get inside. CO could overcome you and it or smell it, kill you. You can’t is in know it your vehicle. Clear away snow from around the base of your vehicle, especially blocking your exhaust pipe.

  • Page 203: If You're Stuck In Deep Snow

    Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can.

  • Page 204: Weight Of The Trailer

    Load-pulling components such as the engine, transaxle, wheel assemblies, and tires are forced to work harder against the drag the added weight. The engine is required to operate at relatively higher speeds and under greater loads, generating extra heat. What’s more, the trailer adds considerably to wind resistance, increasing the pulling requirements.

  • Page 205: Weight Of The Trailer Tongue

    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. In Canada, write to General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Assistance Center 1908 Colonel Sam Drive Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7.

  • Page 206: Total Weight On Your Vehicle's Tires

    Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the Certification label at the rear edge of the driver’s door (or see “Tire Loading” in the Index). Then be sure you don’t go over the GVW limit for your vehicle.

  • Page 207: Driving With A Trailer

    Driving with a Trailer Towing a trailer requires a certain amount of experience. Before setting out for the open road, you’ll want to get know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.

  • Page 208: Driving On Grades

    the trailer lights will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn, change lanes or stop. When towing a trailer, the green arrows instrument panel will flash for turns even if the bulbs on the trailer are burned out. Thus, you may think drivers behind you are seeing your signal when they are not.

  • Page 209: When You Are Ready To Leave After Parking On A Hill

    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; Shift into a gear; and Release the parking brake. 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3.
  • Page 210 I954 Buick Model 56C...

  • Page 211: Part 5 Problems On The Road

    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 212: Hazard Warning Flashers

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

  • Page 213: Other Warning Devices

    >., Press the button in to make your front and rear turn signal lights flash on and off. Your hazard flashers work no 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. When the hazard flashers are on, your turn signals won't work.

  • Page 214: 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. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain acid that can burn you.
  • Page 215 CAUTION: You could be injured if the vehicles roll. Set the parking brake firmly on each vehicle. Put an automatic transaxle in “P” (Park) or a manual transaxle in “N” (Neutral). 3. Turn off the ignition on both vehicles. Turn lights that aren’t needed, and radios.
  • Page 216 CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if need more light. Be sure the battery has enoug,h need to add water to the Delco Freedom@ battery in’...
  • Page 217 6. Connect the red positive cable the positive terminal of the vehicle with the dead battery. Use a remote positive terminal if the vehicle has one. 7. Don’t let the other end touch metal. Connect it to the positive terminal of the good battery.
  • Page 218 Attach the cable at least cm) away from the dead battery, but not near engine parts that move. The elecbical connection is just as good there, but the chance of sparks getting back to the battery is much less. 10. Now start the vehicle with the good battery and run the engine for a while.

  • Page 219: Towing Your Car

    Towing Your Car Try to have a 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. your vehicle has been changed or modified since it...
  • Page 220 CAUTION: To help avoid injury to you or others: Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed. Never tow faster than safe or posted speeds. Never get under your vehicle after it has been lifted by a tow truck. Always use separate safety chains on each side when ?owing vehicle.

  • Page 221: Front Towing Hook

    Front Towing Hook- Attach behind the front wheels into the bottom slots of the cradle rails on both sides Position a contacting the bottom of the radiator support. Position "T" hook chains the lower sling crossbar just behind the rear edge of the front bumper.
  • Page 222 Rear Towing Hook-Ups Attach the slots in the bottom of floor pan just ahead of the rear wheels on both sides. Position the lower sling crossbar directly under the rear bumper. A 4" x 4" wood beam is not needed. hook chains to '7"' Attach a separate safety...

  • Page 223: Engine Overheating

    Engine Overheating You will find the warning light about a hot engine on your Buick instrument panel and if you have the optional gage cluster, a coolant temperature gage. You will also find a low coolant warning light on your Buick instrument panel.
  • Page 224 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. If you’re in a traffic jam, shift to “N”...
  • Page 225 CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. If the coolant inside the coolant recovery tank is boiling, don’t do anything else until it cools down.
  • Page 226 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level “FULL COLD,” isn’t at or above of clean water (preferably distilled) and the proper antifreeze at the coolant recovery tank. (See “Engine Coolant’’...
  • Page 227 CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol engine will burn if the engine parts are hot spill coolant on a hot engine. enough. Don’t When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above “FULL COLD,”...

  • Page 228: How To Add Coolant To The Radiator

    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.
  • Page 229 4. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to “FULL COLD.” Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave radiator pressure cap off. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot.

  • Page 230: If A Tire Goes Flat

    If a Tire Goes Flat Then replace the pressure cap. Be It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” while you’re driving, sure the arrows especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes the pressure cap out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. line up like this.

  • Page 231: Changing A Flat Tire

    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. CAUTION: Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people.
  • Page 232 jack and Start with the the wheel wrench. The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk.
  • Page 233 Rotate the wheel wrench clockwise (to the right). That will raise the lift head a little. If your Buick has a wheel cover, you must take it off to reach the wheel nuts. Refer to the correct picture to see how to remove your wheel cover.
  • Page 234 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. If your vehicle has wire wheel covers, remove them a s follows: Use the wire wheel key wrench...
  • Page 235 Remove the theft deterrent wheel 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.
  • Page 236 Raise the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrencn clockwise. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground so there is enough room for the spare tire to fit. Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the flat tire.
  • Page 237 CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from the places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle.
  • Page 238 Lower the vehicle by rotating the wheel wrench counterclockwise. Lower the jack completely. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in sequence as shown. CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to become loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident.

  • Page 239: Compact Spare Tire

    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: Now put all the equipment back in the trunk. WHEEL WRENCH ION: a jack, a tire or other equilpment...
  • Page 240 Don't take your compact spare through an automatic car wash with guide rails. The compact spare can get caught on the rails. That can damage the tire and wheel, and maybe other Don't use your compact spare on some other vehicle. And don't mix your compact spare or wheel with other wheels or tires.

  • Page 241: 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 get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.
  • Page 242 I957 Buick Super...
  • Page 243 Here you will find information about the care of your Buick then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels vehicle. and a section devoted to its appearance care Part 6 includes: ServiceTips ................

  • Page 244: Doing Your Own Service Work

    Doing Your Own Service Work 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 245 Fuel Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It should meet specifications ASTM D4814 in 3.5-92 the U.S. and CGSB 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 246 Gasolines for Cleaner Air Your use of gasoline with detergent 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 247: Fuels In Foreign Countries

    Ethanol is ethyl or grain alcohol. Properly-blended fuel that is no more than ethanol is fine for your car. Methanol is methyl or wood alcohol. Fuel that is more than 5% methanol is bad for your vehicle. Don’t use it. It can corrode metal parts in your fuel system and also damage plastic and rubber parts.

  • Page 248: Filling Your Tank

    You can also write us at the following address for advice. Just tell us where you're going and give your (VIN). Vehicle Identification Number General Motors of Canada Ltd. International Export Sales P.O. Box 828 Oshawa, Ontario L1H 7N1, Canada Filling Your Tank The cap is behind hinged door on the left side...
  • Page 249 Or you can use the release lever in the trunk.

  • Page 250: Hood Release

    CAUTION: you get gasoline on you and then something ignites it, could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you you open the fuel filler quickly. This spray can happen if your tank nearly full, and is more ’ fuel filler weather.
  • Page 251 Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release. It is under the front edge of the grille.
  • Page 252 Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly. 3800 V6 Supercharged Engine Your Park Avenue Ultra has a 3800 V6 Supercharged engine. Buick chose supercharging rather than turbocharging because Buick emphasizes smooth, refined power. The Supercharger is a device which is designed to pump more air into the engine than it would normally use.

  • Page 253: Engine Oil

    Supercharger is pumping is routed through a bypass. All of these controls, working together provide high performance character and fuel efficiency in the V6 Supercharged Buick engine. The power steering pump uses a remote reservoir mounted on the throttle and cruise control cable bracket.
  • Page 254 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. Remove it again, keeping the tip lower. When to Add Oil: If the oil is at or below the ADD line you’ll need to add some oil.
  • Page 255 What Kind of Oil to Use: Look for three things: “SG” must be on the oil container, either by itself or combined with other quality designations, such as “SG/CC,” “SG/CD,” “SF,SG,CC,” etc. These letters show American Petroleum Institute (API) levels of quality.
  • Page 256 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: See if any one of these is true for you: Most trips are less than 4 miles (6 km).

  • Page 257: Air Cleaner

    What to Do with Used Oil: CAUTION: Used engine oil contains things that have cause skin cancer in laboratory animals. Don't let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner.

  • Page 258: 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 259 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 1 80 F to 200 F (82OC to 93OC).

  • Page 260: Engine Coolant

    If you have 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 Protect against rust and corrosion.

  • Page 261: Adding Coolant

    What to Use: Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half antifreeze that meets “GM 1825-M,” Specification which won’t damage aluminum parts. can also use a recycled coolant conforming to GM Specification 1825-M with a complete coolant flush and refill.
  • Page 262 To Check Coolant: When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at “FULL COLD,” higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to “FULL HOT,” or a little higher. If this light comes on, it means you’re low on engine coolant.

  • Page 263: Radiator Pressure Cap

    Radiator Pressure Cap Your radiator pressure cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) pressure-type cap and must be tightly install to prevent coolant loss and possible engine damage from overheating. Be sure the arro the cap line up with the radiator filler neck.

  • Page 264: Windshield Washer Fluid

    What to Add: Refer to the Maintenance Schedule kind of fluid to use. See “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. NOTICE: When adding power steering fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper fluid. Failure to use the proper flui leaks and damage hoses and seals Windshield Washer Fluid determine what...

  • Page 265: Brake Master Cylinder

    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 266: What To Add

    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 -- for example,...

  • Page 267: Vehicle Storage

    Battery 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 Freedoms battery.

  • Page 268: Headlamp Bulb Replacement

    Headlamp Bulb Replacement 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.

  • Page 269: Taillamp Bulb Replacement

    Turn the bulb socket 1/4 turn counter-clockwise, while pressing it firmly. Remove wire connector from the bulb by lifting the lock tab and pulling it away from the plastic base. To reassemble, attach the wire connector (A) to the plastic base making sure the lock tab (B) is over the lock (C).

  • Page 270: Loading Your Vehicle

    The taillamp, sidemarker and back-up lights can now be accessed. Two of the taillamp bulbs are on a tabbed assembly. Squeeze the release in and pull the assembly out. Pull the bulb straight out from the socket. To replace the assembly, the tabs must be inserted into the slots.
  • Page 271 MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP DATE GVWR GAWR GAWR THIS VEHICLE CONFORMS TO ALL APPLI- U S . CABLE FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY, BUMPER, AND THEFT PREVENTION STANDARDS IN EFFECT MANUFACTURE.SHOWN ABOVE. The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door.
  • Page 272 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 manufacturers.

  • Page 273: Inflation - Tire Pressure

    CAUTION: Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous. Overloading your tires can cause overheating as result of too much friction. You could have an air-out and a serious accident. See “Loading Your Vehicle” in the Index. Underinflated tires pose the same danger as overloaded tires.

  • Page 274: Tire Inspection And Rotation

    When to Check: Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at (420 Ha). How to Check: Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. Simply looking at the tires will not tell you the pressure, especially if you have radial tires -- which may look properly inflated even if they’re underinflated.
  • Page 275 CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the to the vehicle.

  • Page 276: Buying New Tires

    The tire has a puncture, cut, or other damage that can’t be repaired well because of the size or location of the damage. 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.

  • Page 277: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance

    1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire 100. graded The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

  • Page 278: Wheel Replacement

    If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts, or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts, and wheel nuts for your Buick model. CAUTION:...

  • Page 279: Tire Chains

    teplacement WFpels / 1 1 CAUTION: Putting a used wheel on your vehicle dangerous. You can’t know how it’s been use#-. Jr how many miles it’s been driven. It could fail suddenly and cause an accident. If you t--- re to replace a wheel use anew GM original equipment Tire Chains...

  • Page 280: Appearance Care

    Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space. When you use anything in a container to clean your Buick, be sure to follow the instructions. And always open your doors or windows when you’re cleaning the inside.
  • Page 281 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 area immediately or it will set. Using Foam-Type Cleaner on Fabric Vacuum and brush the area to remove any loose dirt. Always clean a whole trim panel or section.

  • Page 282: Cleaning The Top Of The Instrument Panel

    Special Cleaning Problems Greasy or Oily Stains: Like grease, oil, butter, margarine, shoe polish, coffee with cream, chewing gum, cosmetic creams, vegetable oils, wax crayon, tar and asphalt. Carefully scrape off excess stain. Then follow the solvent-type instructions above. Shoe polish, wax crayon, tar and asphalt will stain if left on a vehicle seat fabric.

  • Page 283: Cleaning Speaker Covers

    Cleaning Speaker Covers Vacuum around a Delco-Bose speaker cover gently, so that the speaker won’t be damaged. If something gets on one of them, follow the steps earlier under “Using Solvent-Type Cleaner on Fabric.” Use as little solvent as you can. Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry.

  • Page 284: Cleaning The Outside Of Your Buick

    Finish Care Your Buick 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. (See “Appearance Care and Materials” in the Index Your Buick has a “basecoat/clearcoat”...
  • Page 285 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 Weatherstrips These are places where glass or metal meets rubber.

  • Page 286: Underbody Maintenance

    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 (20 000 km) of purchase, whichever comes first.

  • Page 287: Appearance Care And Maintenance Materials

    Appearance Care and Maintenance Materials You can get these from your Buick dealer. Not recommended for pigskin suede leather. See Your General Motors Dealers for These Products. See Your Maintenance Schedule for Other Products.

  • Page 288: 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 corner 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 289: Fuses And Circuit Breakers

    Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your car are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of fires caused by electrical problems. If you ever have a problem on the road and don’t have a spare fuse, you can “borrow”...
  • Page 290 FUSE USAGE Description Crank Signal Trunk Release/Fuel.Dr Rel/Back-up Lamps Breaker Pwr Wdo/Sun Roof Brkr-Pwr Acsry Not Used Ign/Ret Acsry ContDnst Cstr Supplemental Inflatable Rst Corn Lps/Turn Sig Spare Spare Bat/Radio/IP/Oil Life Oil Level/Frt Lighter Electronic Level Control Brake & Hazard Lamps Park Lamps Courtesy Lps/Pwr Mirrors Cooling Fan/Transmission...

  • Page 291: Power Windows And Other Power Options

    There are additional fuses located behind the right sound insulator panel on the passenger side. If these require service, see your Buick dealer. Maxifuse/Relay Center check the fuses in this underhood fuse center, turn 1/4 turn the two knobs counterclockwise and remove the cover.
  • Page 292 Overall: Length ......Width ......Height .
  • Page 293 Application Exterior Headlight ......High Beam ......Low Beam Park/Turn .

  • Page 294: Capacities And Specifications

    Part numbers are AC type. Air Conditioning Refrigerant: Not all air-conditioning refrigerants are the same. If the air conditioning system in your vehicle needs refrigerant, be sure the proper refrigerant is used. If you’re not sure ask your Buick dealer. Capacities and Specifications Fuel Tank Capacity 18.0 gallons/68 liters...

  • Page 295: Part 7 Maintenance Schedule

    Part 7 Maintenance Schedule This part covers the maintenance required for your Buick dependability and emission control performance Part 7 includes: ..............

  • Page 296: 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 297: Your Vehicle And The Environment

    Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance procedures are important. Improper vehicle maintenance or the removal of important components can significantly affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or even the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of emissions from your vehicle.

  • Page 298: 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 299: Schedule1

    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 Is any one of these true for your vehicle? Most trips are less than miles Most trips are less than 10 miles (16 km) when outside temperatures are below freezing.
  • Page 300 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 (16 kilometers) and outside temperatures remain below freezing. When most trips include extended idling and/or frequent low-speed operation as in stop-and-go traffic.
  • Page 301 TO BE SERVICED WHEN TO PERFORM (See Explanation of Miles (kilometers) or Scheduled Maintenance Months, Whichever Services Following Schedules I and 11) Ztem No. Every 30 000 mi. System ' ' ' l ing Service* (50 000 km) or 24 months. See Explanation of Scheduled 7.
  • Page 302 Scheduled Maintenance Services Schedule I1 ONLY if none of the driving conditions specified in Schedule I apply. - 1 1 TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules and 11) Item No. 1. Engine Oil Change* Oil Filter Change* 2.
  • Page 303 TO BE SERVICED (See Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Following Schedules I and 11) Item No. 8. Spark Plug Replacement* 9. Spark Plug Wire Inspection”? 10. Air Cleaner Filter Replacement* Fuel Tank, Cap & Lines Inspection*? 1 1. 12. Supercharger Oil Check (3.8L Code 1 engine only) The services shown in this schedule up to 45 000 miles (75 000 km) should be performed after 45 000 miles at the Same intervals.

  • Page 304: Explanation Of Scheduled Maintenance Services

    Explanation of Scheduled Maintenance Services Below are explanations of the services listed in Schedule I and Schedule 11. The proper fluids and lubricants to use are listed in Section 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 305 Inspect hoses and replace if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Tighten screw-type hose clamps. Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser. Wash the pressure cap and neck. To help ensure proper operation, we recommend a pressure test of both the cooling system and the pressure cap.

  • Page 306: At Each Fuel Fill

    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. Be sure any necessary repairs are completed at once. Whenever any fluids or lubricants are added to your vehicle, make sure they are the proper ones, as shown in Section...

  • Page 307: 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 label located on the rear edge of the driver’s door. See “Tires” in the Index for further details. At Least Once A Year CHECK OR WHAT TO DO...
  • Page 308 CHECK OR WHAT TO DO SERVICE Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock -- BTSI (Automatic Transaxle) injured. Follow below. I‘ 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 parking brake (see “Parking Brake”...
  • Page 309 CHECK OR WHAT TO DO SERVICE Parking Brake CAUTION: When you are doing and Automatic this check, your vehicle could Transaxle “P” begin to mowe. You or others (Park) could be injured and property Mechanism could be damaged. Make sure Check there is room vehicle in case it begins to roll.

  • Page 310: Section C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections

    Section 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 service department or other qualified service center do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.

  • Page 311: Section Recommended Fluids And Lubricants

    INSPECTION WHAT SHOULD BE DONE OR SERVICE Brake System Inspect the complete system. Inspect Inspection brake lines and hoses hookup, 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.
  • Page 312 FLUID/LUBRICANT USAGE Delco Supreme 1 l @ Brake Fluid Hydraulic Brake Part System equivalent DOT-3 brake fluid. Parking Brake Chassis meeting lubricant requirements of NLGI Grade 2, Guides Category LB or GC-LB (GM Part No. 1052497 or equivalent). Power Steering GM Hydraulic Power Steering Fluid Part System...

  • Page 313: Section E: Maintenance Record

    Section E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the columns indicated. When completing the Maintenance Performed column, insert the numbers ODOMETER DATE READING from the Schedule which correspond to the maintenance performed. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts.
  • Page 314 Maintenance Record...

  • Page 315: Part 8 Customer Assistance Information

    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 Customer Assistance for Hearing/Speech Impaired .

  • Page 316: Customer Assistance For The Hearing Or Speech Impaired

    Buick, write to Buick Motor Division, Customer Assistance Center, 902 E. Hamilton Avenue, Flint, MI 48550. A listing of all Buick Zone Offices and offices outside the U.S. which can assist you can also be found in the warranty booklet.

  • Page 317: Reporting Safety Defects To The United States Government

    TO GENERAL MOTORS In addition to notifying NHTSA (or Transport Canada) in a situation like this, we certainly hope you’ll notify us. Please call us at 1-800-521-7300 , or write: Buick Motor Division Customer Assistance Center Hamilton Avenue Flint, Mi 48550 In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).

  • Page 318: Service Publications

    Product Service 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 319 Individual PSP’s If you don’t want to buy all the PSP’s issued by Buick for all models in the model year, you can buy individual PSP’s, such as those which may pertain to a particular model.
  • Page 320 How You Can Get an Index: Indexes are published periodically. Most of the PSP’s which could potentially apply to the most recent Buick models will be listed in the most recent publication for that model year. This means you may want to wait until the end of the model year before ordering an index, if you are interested in buying PSP’s pertaining to a...
  • Page 323 Part 9 Index (Ignition Key Position) Accessory Power. Retained Adding Brake Fluid Coolant ..... . Electrical Equipment Engineoil Power Steering Fluid Transaxle/Transmission Fluid Windshield Washer Fluid Additives, Engine Oil...
  • Page 324 ....... . . Baby. Holding a Battery Battery Cables, Starting With Battery Warning Light Blizzard, You’re Caught in a...
  • Page 325 ....... . Under the Hood Windshield Washer Fluid Chemical Paint Spotting Child Restraints Children and Safety Belts .
  • Page 326 Defogging Defrost Delco Sound Systems Dimensions Disc Brake Wear Indicators Disposal, Used Oil Door Ajar Light DoorLocks Door Locks, Automatic Downhill Parking Downshifting Driving ........AtNight Defensively Drunk...
  • Page 327 Fasteners. Replacement Features and Controls Fetus. Risk to From Safety Belt Use Filling Your Fuel Tank Filter. Oil ........Finish Care .
  • Page 328 Hearing Impaired Customer Assistance Heater Heater. Engine Block High Speed. Shifting When Your Eogine is Running “Highway Hypnosis’’ Hill and Mountain Roads Hills. Parking on Hitches. Trailer Holding a Baby in Your Car Hood. Opening the Horn Hot Coolant Warning Light Hot Engine.
  • Page 329 ....Gages and Warning Indicators ........Panel Time Out Feature .
  • Page 330 ....... . (Park) Position ........Paint Spotting Panel Lights .
  • Page 331 Retained Accessory Power Reverse Gear Position “Riding” the Brakes Road Signs Roads. Hill and Mountain Rocking Your Vehicle Rotation. Tire Run (Ignition Key Position) Running Lights. Daytime Running Your Engine While You’re Parked Safety Belt Care Safety Belt Extender Safety Belt Reminder Light Safety Belt Replacement Safety Belt.
  • Page 332 ....... Stuck, If Your Car is Subscribing to Buick Product Service Publications Sunroof...
  • Page 333 Towing a Trailer ......Towing Your Buick Traction Control System Traction Control System Warning Light .
  • Page 334 Wet Road Driving Wheel Alignment Wheel Covers Removal Wheel Nut Torque Wheel Replacement White Sidewall Tires. Cleaning Why Wear Safety Belts ? Windows. Power Windshield Cleaning ........Washer Washer Fluid .

  • Page 335: Fuel Usage

    Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage DATE MILEAGE AMOUNT COMMENTS...
  • Page 336 Owner’s Record of Upkeep & Fuel Usage DATE MILEAGE AMOUNT COMMENTS ._ .
  • Page 337 Fuel Usage Owner’s Record of Upkeep & AMOUNT DATE MILEAGE...
  • Page 338 Fuel Mileage Chart 108 117 126 135 144 153 162 171 180 189 198 207 216 90 99 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 110 121 132 143 154 165 176 187 198 120 132 144 156 168 180 192 204 216 228 240 252 264 276 288 300 312 324 336 348 360 372 384 396 408 420 432 130 143 156 169 182 195 208 221 234 247 260 273 286 299 312 325 338 351 364 377 390 403 416 429 442 455 468 140 154 168 182 196 210 224 238 252 266 280 294 308 322 336 350 364 378 392 406 420...
  • Page 340 THIS MANUAL IS PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER USING .._- .. " U M 50% WASTEPAPER, POST CONSUMER WASTE . . .

This manual is also suitable for:

Parkavenue 1993

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