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Buick 1998 Century Owner's Manual

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Summary of Contents for Buick 1998 Century

  • Page 3 This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. 8- 1 Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8-8. 9- 1 Index Here’s an alphabetical listing...
  • Page 4 GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, BUICK, the BUICK Emblem and the name CENTURY are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice.
  • Page 5 How to Use this Manual Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features and controls for your vehicle. In this manual, you’ll find that pictures and words work together to explain things quickly.
  • Page 6 Vehicle Damage Warn Also, in this book you will find these notices: NOTICE: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly.
  • Page 7 Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. 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 PROTECT...
  • Page 8 NOTES...

  • Page 9: Table Of Contents

    Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your Buick and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts.

  • Page 10: Seats And Seat Controls 1-3

    Seats and Seat Controls This section tells you how to adjust the seats and explains the reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat moving.
  • Page 11 This switch is designed to imitate the movements of 6-Way Power Seat (If Equipped) your seat cushion. The driver’s switch is located on the left side of the driver’s seat cushion. The passenger’s switch is located on the right side of the passenger’s seat cushion.
  • Page 12 Reclining Front Seatbacks Lift the lever to release the seatback, then move the seatback to where you want it. Release the lever to lock the seatback into place. Pull up on the lever without pushing on the seatback and the seatback will move forward.

  • Page 13: Safety Belts: They're For Everyone

    UTION: ’ Sitting in a reclined position when your vehicle is in motion can be dangerous. Even if you buckle up, your safety belts can’t do their job when you’re reclined like this. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body.
  • Page 14 CAU-ION: It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of vehicle. In people riding in these areas are more seriously injured or killed. ride in any area your vehicle that is not equipped with seats and safety belts. Be sure everyone in your vehicle is in a seat and using a safety belt properly.
  • Page 15 Why Safety Belts Work When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as goes. Put someone on it. Take the simplest vehicle. Suppose it’s just a seat on wheels.
  • Page 16 Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn't stop. The person keeps going until stopped by something. In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...
  • Page 17 . . . 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 18: Here Are Questions Many People Ask About

    Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be whether you’re wearing belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.

  • Page 19: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly

    How to Wear Safety Belts Properly Adults This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to belts children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see the part of this manual called “Children.”...
  • Page 20 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the...
  • Page 21 Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the height that is right for you. To move it down, squeeze the release lever and move the height adjuster to the desired position. the adjuster up just by pushing up on the shoulder belt guide.
  • Page 22 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way. 1-14 CAUTION: You can be seriously hurt your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should fit against your body.
  • Page 23 What's wrong with this? The belt is buckled in the wrong place. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if your belt is 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 24 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too increase the chance of head and neck injury.
  • Page 25 What’s wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body. C IUTION: /--\ You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to of the...

  • Page 26: Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy

    To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way. Before you close the door, be sure the belt is out of the way. If you slam the door on it, you can damage both the belt and your vehicle.

  • Page 27: Right Front Passenger Position

    The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making safety belts effective is wearing them properly.
  • Page 28 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. This is true even with reduced-force frontal air bags. Safety belts help keep you in position before and during a crash.
  • Page 29 How the Air Bag System Works Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. 1-21...
  • Page 30 If something is between an occupant and an air bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it might force the object into that person. The path of an inflating air bag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an air bag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any other air bag covering.
  • Page 31 What makes an air bag inflate? In an impact of sufficient severity, the air bag sensing system detects that the vehicle is in a crash. The sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inflator, which inflates the air bag. The inflator, air bag and related hardware are all part of the air bag modules inside the steering wheel and in the instrument panel in front of the right front passenger.
  • Page 32 When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. This dust could cause breathing problems for people with a history of asthma ‘breathing trouble. avoid this, everyone in the vehicle should get out as soon as it is safe to I f you have breathing problems but can’t get out of the vehicle after an air bag inflates, then get fresh air by opening...
  • Page 33 If your vehicle ever gets into a lot of water water up to the carpeting or higher your vehicle and soaks the carpet, the air bag controller can be soaked and ruined. If this ever happens, and then you start your vehicle, the damage could make the air bags inflate, even if there’s no crash.

  • Page 34: Center Passenger Position

    Lap Belt If your vehicle has bench seat, someone center position. When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt. sit in the...

  • Page 35: Rear Seat Passengers

    To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug. Buckle, position and release it the same way as the lap part of a lap-shoulder belt. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
  • Page 36 Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions Lap-Shoulder Belt 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. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly.
  • Page 37 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it it does, let it go back all the way and will lock.
  • Page 38 The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs. In a crash, this applies force to the strong pelvic bones. And you’d be less likely to slide under the lap belt. If you slid under it, the belt would apply force at your abdomen.

  • Page 39: Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides

    To unlatch the belt, just push the button Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head.
  • Page 40 1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of the seatback the interior body to remove the guide from its storage clip. 1-32 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide.
  • Page 41 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top. 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” earlier in this section.

  • Page 42: Children

    To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out from the guides. Pull the guide upward to expose its storage clip, and then slide the guide onto the clip. Rotate the guide and clip inward and in between the seatback and the interior body, leaving only the loop of elastic cord exposed.
  • Page 43 CAUTION: Smaller children and babies should always be restrained in a child or infant restraint. The instructions for the restraint will say whether it is the right type and size for your child. A very young child’s hip bones are so small that a regular belt might not stay low on the hips, as it should.
  • Page 44 CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle. A baby doesn’t weigh much crash. During crash a baby will become so heavy you can’t hold it. For example, in a crash CAUTION: (Continued) 1-36 at only mph (40 will suddenly become a 240-lb.

  • Page 45: Built-In Child Restraint (Option)

    Built-in Child Restraint (Option) If your vehicle has this option, there’s a built-in child restraint in the center rear seat position. This child restraint system conforms to all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. This child restraint is designed who weigh between 22 and 60 pounds (10 and 27 kg) and whose height is between 33.5 (850 and 1 295 mm) and who are capable of sitting...
  • Page 46 With this built-in child restraint, you can adjust the height of the harness. Depending on the seated height of the child, you can route it through the upper pair of slots (A), the middle pair slots (B) or the lower pair of slots (C).
  • Page 47 &.’ What if the top of my child’s shoulders is above the highest pair slots? A child whose shoulders are above the highest slots shouldn’t use this child restraint. Instead, the child should sit on the vehicle’s seat cushion and use the vehicle’s safety belts.
  • Page 48 Adjusting the Harness Height ..:' ..;& 2. If the left and right halves of the shoulder harness clip are fatened together, separate them. 1. Lower the child restraint cushion. 1-40...
  • Page 49 4. Pull down the seatback part of the pad (D). 3. If the lap-shoulder harness is buckled, unlatch it by pushing the button on the buckle. 1-41...
  • Page 50 5. Select one side of the harness. Add some slack to the 6. Feed a small amount of harness slack back into shoulder part by pulling up on the lap part. You'll the slot. keep most of this slack until you finish Step 9. 7.
  • Page 51 9. Twist the harness slightly to route it through the 8. Move the harness up or down to the cprrect slot. The correct slot. correct slot is the one that will be at or just above the top of the child's shoulder. 1-43...
  • Page 52 10. Pull on the harness. Make sure it is properly routed and isn't twisted or flipped over. 11. Repeat Steps 5 through 10 for the other side of the harness. Be sure both sides are adjusted to the same height. 12.
  • Page 53 Using the vehicle’s regular safety belts on seated on the child restraint cushion can cause serious injury to the child in a sudden stop or crash. If a child is the proper size for the built-in child restraint, secure the child using the child restraint’s harness.
  • Page 54 2. If the lap-shoulder harness is buckled, unlatch it by pushing the button on the buckle. 3. Place the child on the child restraint cushion. 1-46 4. Select only one side of the harness. Pull the lap part of the harness out, and place the harness over the child’s shoulder.
  • Page 55 5. Push the latch plate (F) into the buckle until it clicks. Be sure the buckle is free of any foreign objects that may prevent you from securing the latch plates. If you can’t secure latch plate, see your dealer for service before using the child restraint.
  • Page 56 8. Now fasten the left and right halves of the shoulder harness clip together. The indicator window w i l l show green when the two halves are the clip fastened together. The purpose of this clip is to help keep the harness positioned 1-48 An unfastened shoulder harness clip won’t help...
  • Page 57 9. On both sides the harness, pull up on the lap part a little to be sure it’s locked. If the harness isn’t locked, or if it becomes too tight, unfasten the harness clip. Then unlatch the harness by pushing the button on the buckle, and let both sides of the harness go all the way back so they will move freely again.
  • Page 58 Removing the Child from the Built-in Child Restraint 1. Unfasten the shoulder harness clip. 1-50 Unlatch the harness by pushing the button on the buckle. Move one side of the harness off the child’s shoulder, and let the harness go all the way back. Move the other side of the harness off the child’s shoulder, and let it go all the way back.
  • Page 59 Storing the Built-in Child Restraint Always properly store the built-in child restraint before using the vehicle’s lap belt in the center rear seat position. 1. Buckle the harness and fasten the harness clip. 2. Fold the child restraint cushion and leg rest up into the seatback.

  • Page 60: Child Restraints

    Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. What are the different types of add-on child restraints? Add-on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will...
  • Page 61 A rear-facing infant restraint (B) positions to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear-facing infant restraints designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant's head, neck and body can have the support they need in a crash.
  • Page 62 1-54 A forward-facing child restraint (C-E) positions a child upright to face forward itl the vehicle. These forward-facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 Ibs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age.
  • Page 63 A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs. (1 8 to 27 kg) and about four to eight years of age. It’s designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Booster seats with shields use lap-only belts;...
  • Page 64 When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it will have a label saying that it meets Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Then follow the instructions for the restraint. You may find these instructions on the restraint itself or in a booklet, or both.
  • Page 65 If 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. If you want to install an anchor yourself, your dealer can tell you how to do it.
  • Page 66 your child restraint has a top strap, your dealer can obtain a kit with anchor hardware and installation instructions specifically designed for this vehicle. The dealer can then install the anchor for you. In Canada, this work will be done for you free of charge. Or, you may install the anchor yourself using the instructions provided in the kit.
  • Page 67 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is the retractor to set the lock. positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-59...
  • Page 68 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. If using a you’re forward-facing child restraint, you may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
  • Page 69 A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed front passenger air bag if it inflates, even though your vehicle has reduced-force frontal air bags. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat.
  • Page 70 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 5 . To tighten the belt, pull its free end while you push down on the child restraint.
  • Page 71 You’ll be using the lap-shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child in the child restraint when and as the instructions say.
  • Page 72 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. helpful to use your knee to push down You may find on the child restraint as you tighten the belt,...

  • Page 73: Larger Children

    Larger Children Children who have outgrown child restraints should wear the vehicle’s safety belts. If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they restrained in the rear seat.
  • Page 74 1-66 Never do this. Here two children are wearing the same belt, The belt can’t properly spread the impact forces. In a crash, the two children can be crushed together and seriously injured. A belt must be used by only one person at a time, What if a child is wearing a lap-shoulder belt, but the child is so small that the shoulder belt is very close to the child’s face or neck?
  • Page 75 CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a lap-shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen.

  • Page 76: Safety Belt Extender

    Safety Belt Extender If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your dealer will order you an extender. It’s free. When you go in to order it, take the heaviest coat you will wear, so the extender will be long enough for you.
  • Page 77 Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly and what to do if you have a problem. Keys Door Locks Remote Keyless Entry...

  • Page 78: 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 79 The door key is for the doors and all other locks. The ignition and door keys don’t have plugs. Your dealer or Buick Premium Roadside Assistance has the code for your keys. If you need a new ignition or door key, contact your...

  • Page 80: Door Locks

    Door Locks Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in crash if the doors aren’t locked.
  • Page 81 Power Door Locks Press the power door lock switch to lock or unlock all doors. The rear doors do not have power door lock switches. The lever on each rear door works only that door’s lock. It won’t lock or unlock all the doors. Lockout Protection Feature This feature prevents a driver who has left the key in the vehicle’s ignition from locking the doors by using the...
  • Page 82 Rear-Door Child Security Locks Your vehicle is equipped with rear-door child security locks that help prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside. these locks: 1. Open one of the rear doors. 2. On the inside of the rear door will be a lock. Insert your key into this lock and rotate it upward.
  • Page 83 Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks is a standard feature that is intended to provide enhanced security and convenience by automatically locking and unlocking doors. This feature provides four operating modes. For your vehicle, you may select and program one of the following four operating modes: Mode 1: No automatic door lock or unlock.
  • Page 84 Disconnecting the vehicle’s battery for up to a year will not change the programmed mode of the Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks. Delayed Locking Delayed Locking allows the doors to be locked while passengers are exiting the vehicle. This feature also provides a brief time period after all the doors are closed, but before the doors are locked, in which the doors may be reopened.

  • Page 85: Remote Keyless Entry

    You may also customize your vehicle to activate the Delayed Locking feature as described above, or you may choose to completely disable the feature at all times. If disabled, the power door locks will activate immediately when a power door lock switch is pressed. The enabled/disabled state of the Delayed Locking feature will be toggled when you perform the following sequence with the doors closed and the ignition key...
  • Page 86 RSS-210 of This device complies with Canada. Operation subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and ( 2 ) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation the device. Changes or modifications to this system by other than an authorized service facility could void authorization to use this equipment.
  • Page 87 Security Feedback Security Feedback provides audible and/or visible feedback that a remote keyless entry lock or unlock command has been received and executed. Your vehicle’s ignition must be off for this feature to work. You may select one of four operating modes for reception of a lock command.
  • Page 88 The operating mode of the Security Feedback unlock feature will be changed when you perform the following sequence with your vehicle’s doors closed and the ignition key in RUN: 1 . Press and hold the power door unlock switch. While holding the door unlock switch, press and release the transmitter unlock button.
  • Page 89 Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. transmitter is lost or stolen, purchased through your dealer. Remember to bring any remaining transmitters with you when you go to your dealer.

  • Page 90: Trunk

    replace your battery: 1. Insert a flat object like dime into the slot on the back of the transmitter. Gently pry apart the front and back. 2. Gently pry the battery out of the transmitter. 3. Put the new battery into the transmitter as shown on the transmitter (use type CR2032 battery or equivalent).

  • Page 91: Theft

    Trunk Lock To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the door key and turn it. You can also press the car symbol on your remote keyless entry transmitter. Theft Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities. Although your vehicle has a number of theft-deterrent features, we know that nothing we put on it can make it impossible to steal.

  • Page 92: Pass-Key@ I1

    If you lose or damage a PASS-Key I1 ignition key, see your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS-Key I1 to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the Buick Premium Roadside Assistance Center at 1-800-252- 11 12. In Canada, call 1-800-268-6800.

  • Page 93: New Vehicle "Break-In

    New Vehicle LLBreak-In” NOTICE: Your vehicle doesn’t need an elaborate “break-in.” But it will perform better in the long run if you follow these guidelines: Don’t drive any one speed slow for the first 500 miles (805 km). Don’t make full-throttle starts. Avoid making hard stops for the first 200 miles (322 km) or so.
  • Page 94 LOCK (B): Before you put the key into the ignition switch, the switch is in LOCK. It’s also the only position from which you can remove your key. This position locks your ignition, steering wheel and transaxle. It’s a theft-deterrent feature. OFF (C): This position lets you turn off the engine but still turn the steering wheel.

  • Page 95: Starting Your Engine

    To restart when you’re already moving, use Nl .TRAL (N) only. NOTICE: Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your Buick is moving. If you do, you could damage the transaxle. Shift to PARK (P) only when your vehicle is stopped.

  • Page 96: Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)

    2. If your engine won’t start (or starts but then stops), it could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding there as you hold the key in START for up to 15 seconds. This clears the extra gasoline from the engine.
  • Page 97 To Use the Engine Coolant Heater Turn off the engine. Open the hood and unwrap the electrical cord. The cord is attached to the underside of the diagonal brace located behind the air cleaner. 3. Plug it into a normal, grounded 1 IO-volt CAUTION: Plugging the cord into an ungrounded outlet could cause an electrical shock.

  • Page 98: Automatic Transaxle Operation

    Automatic Transaxle Operation , , r Your automatic transaxle will have a shift lever on the steering column. The graphic shown above is displayed on your instrument panel cluster in reference to your steering column shift lever. Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic transaxle vehicles when you’re in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) to protect driveline components from improper operation.
  • Page 99 Make sure the shift lever is fully in PARK starting the engine. Your vehicle has a Brake-Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI). You must fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK when the ignition is in RUN. If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down.
  • Page 100 AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE (0): for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, and you’re: Going less than 35 rnph (55 km/h), push your accelerator pedal about halfway down. Going about 35 mph k d h ) or more, push the accelerator pedal all the way down.
  • Page 101 (2): This SECOND position gives you more power but lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on.

  • Page 102: Parking Brake

    Parking Brake set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot. Push down the parking brake pedal with your left foot. To release the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot and push the parking brake pedal with your left foot.

  • Page 103: Shifting Into Park (P)

    Shifting Into PARK (P) CAUTION: can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
  • Page 104 Move the lever up 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 leave your vehicle with the ignition key in your hand, your vehicle is in PARK (P). 2-28 Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running...

  • Page 105: Shifting Out Of Park (P)

    Torque Lock If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK properly, the weight vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle. You may find it difficult to pull the shift lever out of PARK (P).

  • Page 106: Parking Over Things That Burn 2-5

    Parking Over Things That Burn 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 2-30 Engine Exhaust Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas (CO), carbon monoxide which...

  • Page 107: 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. Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle (see the earlier Caution under “Engine Exhaust”).

  • Page 108: Horn

    Windows Power Windows Switches on the driver’s door armrest control each of the windows when the ignition is on. In addition, each passenger’s door has a switch for its own window. 2-32 The driver’s window switch has an express-down feature. This switch is labeled AUTO. Tap the rear of the switch, and the driver’s window will open a small amount.

  • Page 109: Tilt-Wheel

    TILT-WHEEL Adjustable Steering Column can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle. To tilt the wheel, hold the steering wheel and pull the lever. Move the steering wheel to a comfortable level, then release the lever to lock the wheel into place.
  • Page 110 Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has two upward (for right) and two downward (for left) positions. These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.
  • Page 111 Flash-to-Pass Feature This feature lets you use your high-beam headlamps to signal the driver in front of you that you want to pass. It works even if your headlamps are off. To use it, pull the turn signal lever but not so far that you hear a click. If your headlamps are off or on low beam, your high-beam headlamps will turn on.
  • Page 112 For steady wiping at low speed, turn the band to LO. For high-speed wiping, turn the band further, to HI. To stop the wipers, turn the band to OFF. You can set the wiper speed for a long or short delay between wipes.
  • Page 113 Cruise Control (Option) With cruise control, you can maintain a speed of about 25 mph (40 k d h ) or more without keeping your foot on the accelerator. This can really help on long trips. Cruise control does not work at speeds below about 25 mph (40 kmk).
  • Page 114 Setting Cruise Control you leave your cruise control switch on when you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to. You could be startled and even lose control. Keep the cruise control switch off until you want to use it. 1.
  • Page 115 Move the cruise switch from ON to WA. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and then release the switch. increase your speed in very small amounts, move the switch to R/A for less than half a second and then release it. Each time you do this, your vehicle will go about 1 mph (1.6 k d h ) faster.) The accelerate feature will only work after you...

  • Page 116: Exterior Lamps

    Exterior Lamps The lamp controls are located on the instrument panel. They control these systems: Headlamps Taillamps Parking Lamps License Lamps Sidemarker Lamps Instrument Panel Lights Courtesy Lamps 2-40 If you pull the knob out halfway, it will turn on your parking lamps and your other operating lamps.
  • Page 117 Daytime Running Lamps Headlamp Control Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front your vehicle during the day. DRL can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be especially helpful in the short periods after dawn and before sunset.
  • Page 118 Twilight Sentinel Twilight Sentinel provides a period of exterior illumination as you leave the vicinity of your vehicle. The feature is activated when your vehicle’s headlamps are on due to the automatic headlamp control feature described previously in this section, and when your vehicle’s ignition is turned off.

  • Page 119: Interior Lamps

    Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness Control You can brighten dim the instrument panel lights by moving the LIGHTS dial. If you turn the dial past MAX, your courtesy or interior lamps will come on. Courtesy Lamps When any door is opened, several lamps come lamps are courtesy lamps.
  • Page 120 Delayed Exit Lighting This feature illuminates your vehicle’s interior for a period of time after the ignition key is removed from the ignition. The vehicle’s ignition must be off for Delayed Exit Lighting to work. When the ignition key is removed, interior illumination will activate and remain on until: The ignition is in RUN.
  • Page 121 Dome Lamp The dome lamp will come on when you open the doors. Battery Rundown Protection Your vehicle has a feature to help prevent draining the battery in case you accidentally leave the interior courtesy lamps, reading/map lamps, visor vanity lamps, trunk lamp, underhood lamp or glove box lamps on.
  • Page 122 Electrochromic Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have an electrochromic dayhight rearview mirror. Push the button in the center of the mirror to turn this feature on. The mirror will darken gradually to reduce glare from headlamps behind you. This may take a few moments.

  • Page 123: Storage Compartments

    Heated Foldaway Outside Mirrors (If Equipped) The left and right outside mirrors are heated when you activate the rear window defogger. (See “Rear Window Defogger in the Index”.) Convex Outside Mirror Your passenger’s side mirror is convex. A convex mirror’s surface is curved so you can see more from the driver’s seat.
  • Page 124 Trunk Convenience Net (If Equipped) Your vehicle may have a convenience net. You’ll see it on 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 125: Sun Visors

    Sun Visors To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You can also move them from side to side. The visors also have extenders that you can pull out for added coverage. Visor Vanity Mlirrors Open the cover to expose the vanity mirror. If your vehicle has the optional lighted vanity mirrors, the lamps come on when you open the cover.

  • Page 126: Cellular Phone Readiness Package

    To open the astroroof, push the rear of the switch once and the astroroof will open to the vent position only. will need to open the sunshade by hand. Push the rear of the switch a second time and the will astroroof open the remainder of the way by itself.

  • Page 127: Instrument Panel -- Your Information System

    Instrument Panel Your Information System A. Lamp Controls B. Instrument Cluster C. Vents D. Glove Box E. Audio System E Climate Controls 2-51...

  • Page 128: Instrument Panel Cluster

    Instrument Panel Cluster Standard Cluster: United States Version Shown, Canadian Similar Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel is in your tank and many other things you need to drive safely and economically. 2-52...

  • Page 129: Warning Lights, Gages And Indicators

    Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour ( k d h ) . Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven in either miles (used in the United States) or in kilometers (used in Canada).
  • Page 130 Gages can indicate when there may be or with one of your vehicle’s functions. Often gages and warning lights work together to let you know when there’s a problem with your vehicle. When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows there may be a problem, check the section that tells you what to do about it.
  • Page 131 Charging System Light The charging system light will come on briefly when you turn on the ignition, as a check to show you it’s working. Then it should go out. If it stays on, or comes on while you are driving, you may have a problem with the charging system.
  • Page 132 Your brake system may not be working properly if the brake system warning light is with the brake system warning light on can lead to an accident. If the light is still on or if the anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing after you’ve pulled the road and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.
  • Page 133 Your regular brake system may not be working properly if the anti-lock brake system warning light is flashing. Driving with the anti-lock brake system warning light flashing can lead to an accident. After you’ve pulled and stopped carefully, have the vehicle towed for service.
  • Page 134 Low Traction Light When your anti-lock system is adjusting brake pressure to help avoid a braking skid, LOW TRAC this light will come on. (Also see “Anti-Lock Brake System Active Light” earlier in this section.) Slippery road conditions may exist if the low traction light comes on, so adjust your driving accordingly.
  • Page 135 Engine Coolant Temperature Gage You have a gage that shows the engine coolant temperature. If the gage pointer moves into the red area, your engine is too hot! TEMPERATURE That reading means the same thing as the warning light. It means that your engine coolant has overheated. If you 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.
  • Page 136 This system is called OBD I1 (On-Board Diagnostics-Second Generation) and is intended to assure that emissions are at acceptable levels for the life of the vehicle, helping to produce a cleaner environment. The SERVICE ENGINE SOON light comes on and a chime will sound to indicate that there is a problem required.
  • Page 137 If the Light Is Flashing The following may prevent more serious damage to your vehicle: Reducing vehicle speed. Avoiding hard accelerations. Avoiding steep uphill grades. If you are towing a trailer, reduce the amount of cargo being hauled as soon as it is possible. If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If the Light Is On Steady”...
  • Page 138 Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel (see “Fuel” in the Index). Poor fuel quality will cause your engine not to run as efficiently as designed. You may notice this as stalling after start-up, stalling when you put the vehicle into gear, misfiring, hesitation on acceleration or stumbling on acceleration.
  • Page 139 Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If you do, your engine can become so hot that it catches fire. You or others could be burned. Check your oil as soon as possible and have your vehicle serviced. NOTICE: Damage to your engine from neglected oil problems can be costly and is not covered by...
  • Page 140 Change Oil Soon Light Your CHANGE OIL SOON light should come on as a bulb check when you start CHANGE OIL the engine. SOON If this light stays on for about 20 seconds after you turn on the ignition, have the oil changed. When to change your oil also depends on driving habits and conditions because they directly affect engine speed, coolant temperature and vehicle speed.
  • Page 141 Cruise Light The CRUISE light comes on whenever you set your cruise control. See “Cruise CRUISE Control” in the Index. Service Vehicle Soon Light This light will come on if you have certain non-emission related SERVICE VEHICLE vehicle problems. SOON These problems may not be obvious and may affect vehicle performance or durability.
  • Page 142 Fuel Gage Your fuel gage tells about how much fuel you have left when the ignition is on. When the indicator nears EMPTY (E), you still have a little fuel left, but you should get more soon. Here are some things owners ask about. All these situations are normal and do not show a problem with your fuel gage: At the service station, the pump shuts off before the...
  • Page 143 Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with Comfort Controls 3 -2 Manual Single Zone Climate Control Dual ComforTemp Climate Control (If Equipped)

  • Page 144: Comfort Controls 3-2

    Comfort Controls Manual Single Zone Climate Control ( - ) COMFORT CONTROL With this system, you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle. The system works best if you keep your windows closed while using it. Fan Knob The left knob selects the amount of air you want.
  • Page 145 BI-LEV: This setting brings in outside air and directs it two ways. Half of the air is directed through the instrument panel outlets. Most of the remaining air is directed through the floor ducts and a little to the defrost and side window vents.

  • Page 146: Dual Comfortemp Climate Control

    u n cold days, with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air, heat it and send it to the floor ducts. If your vehicle has an engine coolant heater, you can use it to help your system provide warm air faster when it’s (0°F cold outside...
  • Page 147 Driver’s Temperature Knob The center knob sets the temperature outlets. Turn the knob toward red (to the right) for warmer air. Turn it toward blue (to the left) for cooler air. Passenger’s Temperature Lever The bottom lever adjusts the air temperature on the passenger’s side independent of the temperature set by the driver.
  • Page 148 FRONT This setting directs most of the air through the defroster and side window vents. Some of the air goes to the floor ducts and the side window vents. The air conditioning compressor will run automatically in this setting unless the outside temperature is below 40°F (4°C).

  • Page 149: Dual Automatic Comfortemp Climate Control

    Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Control (If Equipped) PASSENGERCONTROL With this system, you set a temperature. You can then either let the system automatically control airflow direction and force to maintain the temperature, or you can manually adjust it. The system works best if you keep your windows closed while using it.
  • Page 150 The red lights indicate a warmer temperature than that of the driver. The blue lights indicate a cooler temperature than that of the driver. Manual Control If you prefer to manually control the heating, cooling and ventilation in your vehicle, you can select airflow direction, fan speed, outside or recirculated air and air compressor operation with the following buttons: AIR FLOW This...
  • Page 151 RECIRC: This setting recirculates much of the air inside your vehicle. This setting is not permitted in FRONT defrost mode and is only permitted in WINDSHIELD/FLOOR mode if the compressor is turned on. The indicator light will be lit when recirculation is engaged, but will light for one second and then turn off if selected when not permitted.

  • Page 152: Ventilation System

    Ventilation System Adjust the direction of airflow by moving the vents. Your vehicle’s flow-through ventilation system supplies outside air into the vehicle when air will also enter the vehicle when the air conditioning fan is running. If the airflow seems very low when the fan knob is turned to the highest setting regardless of the mode setting, your passenger compartment air filter may need to be replaced.

  • Page 153: Rear Window Defogger

    Rear Window Defogger The rear window defogger uses a warming grid to remove fog from the rear window. Press the button to turn the rear defogger on, It will turn itself off after about 10 minutes. The picture above on the left refers the defogger button that is found on a Manual Single Zone Climate Control System or Dual ComforTemp Climate Control System;...

  • Page 154: Audio Systems

    Audio Systems Your Delco Electronics audio system has been designed to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint yourself with it first. Find out what your Delco Electronics system can do and how to operate all its controls, to be sure you’re getting the most out of the advanced engineering that went into it.
  • Page 155 RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes. If you press the knob when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.

  • Page 156: Am-Fm Stereo With Cassette Tape Player

    Setting the Tone BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease bass. TREB: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to increase or decrease treble. If a station is weak or noisy, you may want to decrease the treble.
  • Page 157 RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes.
  • Page 158 Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Turn the control behind the upper knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Turn the control behind the lower knob to move the sound to the front or rear speakers.

  • Page 159: Am-Fm Stereo With Cassette Tape Player And

    44 (3): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly. Press it again to return to playing speed. The radio will play while the tape reverses. bb (4): Press this button to advance quickly to another part of the tape. Press the button again to return to playing speed.
  • Page 160 RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. normally shown on the display (station or time), press this button until you see the display you want, then hold the button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for a few seconds.
  • Page 161 AUTO SET Press this button and the system will seek and set the 12 strongest FM or the stations on your preset buttons (depending on which band (AM or FM) you are listening to). AUTO SET will flash while seeking and will remain on until this function is complete.
  • Page 162 If you want to insert a tape when the ignition off, first press EJECT or RECALL. Note that the cassette tape adapter kits for portable compact disc players will work in your cassette tape player. Your tape bias is set automatically. and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error.

  • Page 163: Am-Fm Stereo With Compact Disc Player And

    (6): Press this button to reduce background noise. The double-D symbol will appear on the display. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. AM-FM: Press this button to play the radio when a tape is in the player.
  • Page 164 RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or display the clock. To change what is normally shown the display (station or time), press the button until you see the display you want, then hold the button until the display flashes. If you press the button when the ignition is off, the clock will show for few seconds.
  • Page 165 AUTO SET Press this button and the system will seek and set the 12 strongest FM or the 6 strongest AM stations on your preset buttons (depending on which band (AM or you are listening to). AUTO SET will flash while seeking and will remain on until this function is complete.
  • Page 166 If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio error displays an number, write it down and provide it to your dealer when reporting the problem. PREV (1): Press this button to go to the start of the current track if more than eight seconds have played.

  • Page 167: Am-Fm Stereo With Cassette Tape And Compact Disc Player With Automatic Tone

    AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Compact Disc Player with Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped) Playing the Radio VOLUME: Press this knob to turn the system on and off. To increase volume, turn the knob it to the left to decrease volume. RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock.
  • Page 168 PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six AM, six FMl and six FM2). Just: Turn the radio on. Press AM-FM to select the band. Tune in the desired station. Press TONE to select the setting you prefer.
  • Page 169 Adjusting the Speakers BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers. The middle position balances the sound between the speakers. FADE: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound to the front or rear speakers.
  • Page 170 NEXT (2): Press this button to search for the next selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three seconds of silence between each selection for NEXT to work. The sound will mute while seeking. The SEEK down and up arrows will also find the previous and next selections on the tape.
  • Page 171 Playing a Compact Disc Insert a disc halfway into the slot, label side up. The player will pull it in. The disc should begin playing. If you want to insert a CD while the ignition or the radio is off, first press EJECT or RECALL. If you’re driving on a very rough road or if it’s very hot, the disc may not play and an error code may appear on the display.

  • Page 172: Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped)

    SOURCE: Press this button to change to the disc function when the radio is on. When a disc is inserted, the disc will play until you press AM-FM. Then the disc will stop playing and the radio will play. Press SOURCE again to play a disc again.
  • Page 173 3. Turn the radio off. 4. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until shows on the display. Next you will use the secret code number which you have written down. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display. 6.

  • Page 174: Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped)

    Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: Turn the ignition to ACCESSORY or RUN. Turn the radio off. Press the 1 and 4 buttons together. Hold them down until SEC shows on the display. Press MIN and 000 will appear on the display.

  • Page 175: Understanding Radio Reception

    SCAN: Press the SCAN button and SCAN will appear on the display. SCAN works as the PSCAN button on your radio. It will scan through each of the preset radio stations. If a preset radio station has weak reception, the radio stop at the preset station.

  • Page 176: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player

    To help avoid hearing loss or damage: Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably and clearly. NOTICE: Before you add any sound equipment to your like a tape player, CB radio, mobile vehicle telephone or two-way radio be sure you can add...

  • Page 177: Care Of Your Compact Discs

    When using a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape. If the cleaning cassette ejects, insert the cassette at least three times to ensure thorough cleaning.

  • Page 178: Backglass Antenna (If Equipped)

    Backglass Antenna (If Equipped) Your AM-FM antenna is integrated with your rear window defogger, located in the rear window. Be sure that the inside surface of the rear window is not scratched and that the lines on the glass are not damaged.
  • Page 179 & NOTES 3-37...
  • Page 180 3-38...
  • Page 181 NOTES 3-39...
  • Page 182 NOTES 3-40...
  • Page 183 Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving. Defensive Driving Drunken Driving Control of a Vehicle Braking Steering 4-1 1...

  • Page 184: Defensive Driving

    The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your Buick: Buckle up. (See “Safety Belts” in the Index.) Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.”...

  • Page 185: Drunken Driving

    Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It’s the number one contributor to the highway death toll, claiming thousands of victims every year. Alcohol affects four things that anyone needs to drive a vehicle: Judgment Muscular Coordination Vision...
  • Page 186 It’s the amount of alcohol that counts. For example, if the same person drank three double martinis (3 ounces or 90 ml of liquor each) within an hour, the person’s BAC would be close to 0.12 percent. A person who consumes food just before or during drinking will have a somewhat lower BAC level.
  • Page 187 The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful’’ isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to take sudden action, as when a child darts into the street? A person with even a moderate BAC might not be able to react quickly enough to avoid the collision.

  • Page 188: Control Of A Vehicle

    Control of a Vehicle You have three systems that make your vehicle go where you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work at the places where the tires meet the road. Sometimes, as when you’re driving on snow or ice, it’s easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide.
  • Page 189 Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in spurts heavy acceleration followed by heavy braking -- rather than keeping pace with traffic. This is a mistake. Your brakes may not have time to cool between hard stops. Your brakes will wear out much faster if you do a lot of heavy braking.
  • Page 190 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. If one of the wheels is about to stop rolling, the computer will separately work the brakes at each front wheel and at both rear wheels.

  • Page 191: Steering

    Remember: Anti-lock doesn’t change the time you need to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
  • Page 192 the vehicle going in the same direction. If you’ve ever tried to steer a vehicle on wet ice, you’ll understand this. The traction you can get in curve depends on the condition of your tires and the road surface, the angle at which the curve is banked, and your speed.

  • Page 193: Off-Road Recovery

    An emergency like this requires close attention and a quick decision. If you are holding the steering wheel at the recommended 9 and 3 o’clock positions, you can turn it a full 180 degrees very quickly without removing either hand. But you have to act fast, steer quickly, and just as quickly straighten the wheel once you have avoided the object.

  • Page 194: Passing

    Passing The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a two-lane highway waits for just the right moment, accelerates, moves around the vehicle ahead, then goes back into the right lane again. A simple maneuver? Not necessarily! Passing another vehicle on a two-lane highway is a potentially dangerous move, since the passing vehicle occupies the same lane as oncoming traffic for several seconds.

  • Page 195: Loss Of Control

    Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and start your left lane change signal before moving out of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal and move back into the right lane.

  • Page 196: Driving At Night

    Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited.
  • Page 197 Here are some tips on night driving. Drive defensively. Don’t drink and drive. Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the glare from headlamps behind you. Since you can’t see as well, you may need to slow down and keep more space between you and other vehicles.

  • Page 198: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads

    Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads 4-16 Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire-to-road traction isn’t as good as on And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get even less traction.
  • Page 199 Driving too fast through large water puddles going through some car washes can cause problems, too. The water may affect your brakes. Try to avoid puddles. But if you can’t, try to slow down before you hit them. Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side.
  • Page 200 Hydroplaning Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.

  • Page 201: City Driving

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

  • Page 202: Freeway Driving

    Freeway Driving Mile for mile, freeways (also called thruways, parkways, expressways, turnpikes or superhighways) are the safest of all roads. But they have their own special rules. The most important advice on freeway driving is: Keep up with traffic and keep to the right, Drive speed most of the other drivers are driving.

  • Page 203: Before Leaving On A Long Trip

    Of course, you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be ready and willing to help if you need it. Here are some things you can check before a trip:...

  • Page 204: Highway Hypnosis

    Highway Hypnosis Is there actually such a condition as “highway hypnosis”? Or is it just plain falling asleep at the wheel? Call it highway hypnosis, lack of awareness, or whatever. There is something about an easy stretch of road with the same scenery, along with the hum of the tires on the road, the drone of the engine, and the rush of the wind against the vehicle that can make you sleepy.
  • Page 205 Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle. These parts can work hard on mountain roads. Know how to go down hills. The most important thing to know is this: let your engine do some of the slowing down.

  • Page 206: Winter Driving

    Winter Driving Here are some tips for winter driving: Have your vehicle in good shape for winter. You may want to put winter emergency supplies in your trunk. 4-24 Include an ice scraper, a small brush or broom, a supply of windshield washer fluid, a rag, some winter outer clothing, a small shovel, a flashlight, a red cloth and a couple of reflective warning triangles.
  • Page 207 Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You’ll have a lot less traction or “grip”...
  • Page 208 Your anti-lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti-lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See “Anti-Lock‘’ in the Index. Allow greater following distance on any slippery road.
  • Page 209 Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor mats anything you can wrap around yourself or tuck under your clothing to keep warm.

  • Page 210: Loading Your Vehicle

    Run your engine only as long as you must. This saves fuel. When you run the engine, make it go a little faster than just idle. That is, push the accelerator slightly. This uses less fuel for the heat that you get and it keeps the battery charged.
  • Page 211 MFD BY GENERAL MOTORS CORP GVWR GAWR The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the vehicle, all occupants, fuel and cargo.

  • Page 212: Towing A Trailer

    CAUTION: ings you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in a crash. Put things in the trunk of your vehicle. In a as far trunk, put them forward as you can. Try to spread the weight evenly.
  • Page 213 Your vehicle can tow a trailer if it is equipped with the proper trailer towing equipment. To identify what the vehicle trailering capacity is for your vehicle, you should read the information in “Weight of the Trailer” that appears later in this section. But trailering is different than just driving your vehicle by itself.
  • Page 214 4-32 You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Buick Motor Division Customer Relations Center 902 E. Hamilton Avenue Flint, MI 48550 In Canada, write to:...
  • Page 215 Weight of the Trailer Tongue The tongue load (A) of any trailer is an important weight to measure because it affects the total or gross weight of your vehicle. The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) includes the curb weight of the vehicle, any cargo you may carry in it, and the people who will be riding in the vehicle.
  • Page 216 Hitches It’s important to have the correct hitch equipment, Crosswinds, large trucks going by and rough roads are a few reasons why you’ll need the right hitch. Here are some rules to follow: The rear bumper on your vehicle is not intended for hitches.
  • Page 217 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 to know your rig. Acquaint yourself with the feel of handling and braking with the added weight of the trailer.
  • Page 218 When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your Buick dealer. The green arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change. Properly hooked up, the trailer lamps will also flash, telling other drivers you’re about to turn,...
  • Page 219 Parking on Hills You really should not park your vehicle, with a trailer attached, on a hill. If something goes wrong, your rig could start to move. People can be injured, and both your vehicle and the trailer can be damaged. But if you ever have to park your rig on a hill, here’s how to do it: Apply your regular brakes, but don’t shift into...
  • Page 220 Maintenance When Trailer Towing Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more on this. Things that are especially important in trailer operation are automatic transaxle fluid (don’t overfill), engine oil, drive belt, cooling system and brake adjustment.
  • Page 221 Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur Hazard Warning Flashers 5 -3 Jump Starting Towing Your Vehicle 5-15 Engine Overheating 5-18 Cooling System the road. 5-25 If a Tire Goes Flat 5-26 Changing a Flat Tire 5-37...

  • Page 222: Hazard Warning Flashers

    Hazard Warning Flashers Your hazard warning flashers let you warn others. They also let police know you have a problem. Your front and rear turn signal lamps will flash on and off. Press the switch on top of the steering column to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off.

  • Page 223: Jump Starting

    Jump Starting If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your vehicle. But please follow the steps below to do it safely. Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: They contain acid that can burn you.
  • Page 224 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems.
  • Page 225 Find the positive and negative each battery. Your vehicle has a remote positive jump starting terminal. The terminal is on the same side of the engine compartment uncover the remote positive sides of the red plastic cap and pull the cap upward. You should always use the remote positive terminal instead of the positive your battery.
  • Page 226 6 . Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. The vehicles could be damaged too. Before you connect the cables, here are some basic things you should know. Positive positive and negative will go to negative...
  • Page 227 8. Don’t touch metal. Connect it to the positive terminal of the good battery. Use a remote positive the vehicle has one. 9. Now connect the black negative the good battery’s negative Don’t let the other end touch anything until the next step.

  • Page 228: Towing Your Vehicle

    14. Reinstall the red protective remote jump start cover on the vehicle that was jump started. A. Heavy Metal Engine Part B. Good Battery C. Dead Battery Towing Your Vehicle Try to have a dealer or a professional towing service tow your vehicle.
  • Page 229 When the towing service arrives, let the tow operator know that this manual contains detailed towing instructions and illustrations. The operator may want see them. C A U L 3 N : To help avoid injury to you or others: Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is being towed.
  • Page 230 A vehicle can fa rom a car carrier if it isn’t adequately secured. This can cause a serious personal injury and vehicle damage. The vehicle should be tightly secured with chains steel cables before it is transported. Don’t use substitutes (ropes, leather straps, canvas webbing, etc.) that can be cut by sharp edges underneath the towed vehicle.
  • Page 231 Front Towing NOTICE: Do not tow with sling type equipment or fascia/fog lamp damage will occur. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment. Additional ramping may be required for car-carrier equipment. safety chains and wheel straps. Use the T-slots for car-carrier securing. Towing a vehicle over rough surfaces could damage a vehicle.
  • Page 232 Attach T-hook chains in front of the wheels, into the slots of the front shipping brackets on the cradle (both sides). Insert the hook from the inward side of the slot and not the outward side. A < ' These slots are to be used when securing to car-carrier equipment.
  • Page 233 Rear Towing Using a towing dolly for your drive wheels is recommended if your vehicle is towed more than 500 cumulative miles (800 km) or exceeds mph (80 km/h). NOTICE: not tow with sling-type equipment or the rear bumper valance will be damaged. Use wheel-lift or car-carrier equipment.
  • Page 234 Attach T-hook chains into slots in the bottom of the floor pan, just ahead of the rear wheels, on both sides. These slots are to be used when securing to car-carrier equipment. 5-14 Attach a separate safety chain around the outboard end of both lateral arms.
  • Page 235 Engine Overheating You will find a coolant temperature gage and a hot engine warning light on your instrument panel. See “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light” in the Index. You also have a low coolant warning light on your instrument panel.
  • Page 236 If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine 5-16 Steam from an overheated engine can burn badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
  • Page 237 If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine you get the overheat warning but see or hear no steam, the problem may not be too serious. Sometimes the engine can get a little too hot when you: Climb a long hill on a hot day. Stop after high-speed driving.

  • Page 238: Cooling System

    Cooling System When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: A. Coolant Recovery Tank B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans C . Radiator Pressure Cap 5-18 An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you.
  • Page 239 If it isn’t, you may have a leak in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system. Heater and radiator hoses, and other camdine parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you do, you can be burned.
  • Page 240 NOTICE: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. Use the recommended coolant and the proper coolant mixture. 5-20 CAUTION: You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene and it will burn if the engine parts are hot enough.
  • Page 241 CAUTLN: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap even a little they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot.
  • Page 242 How to Add Coolant to the Radiator NOTICE: Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure. this Failure to follow procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged. 1. You can remove the If you hear a hiss, wait for that to stop. A hiss means there is still some pressure left.
  • Page 243 3. After the engine cools, open the coolant air bleed valves. There are two bleed valves. One is located on the thermostat housing. The other is located on the thermostat bypass tube. 4. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL@ coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck.
  • Page 244 6. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD mark on the overflow hose in the coolant bottle. 7. Put the cap back on the coolant recovery tank, but leave the pressure cap off. 5-24 8. Start the engine and let it run upper radiator hose getting hot.

  • Page 245: If A Tire Goes Flat

    10. Then replace the pressure cap. At any time during this procedure if coolant begins to flow out of the filler neck, reinstall the pressure cap. Be sure the arrows on the pressure cap line up like this. 11. Check the coolant in the recovery tank. The level in the coolant recovery tank should be at the HOT mark when the engine is hot or at the COLD mark when the engine is cold.

  • Page 246: 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. Changing tire can cause an injury. The can slip off the jack and roll over you people.
  • Page 247 Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. (See “Compact Spare Tire” later in this section for more information about the compact spare.) 1. Pull the carpeted mat up from the floor of the trunk and turn the center nut on the compact spare cover to the left to remove it.
  • Page 248 3. Turn the nut holding the jack to the left and remove The tools you'll be using include the jack (A), extension and protection guide (B) and wheel wrench ( C ) . it. Then remove the jack and wrench. 5-28...
  • Page 249 Wheel Covers To remove a center cap, use the wrench to pry gently at the notch. Don’t that is narrower than the wrench to pry at this notch. Then pry off the cap. If your vehicle is equipped with wheel covers, be sure to use a wheel wrench to begin the process of loosening the plastic...
  • Page 250 Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. Using the wheel wrench, loosen all the wheel nuts. Don’t remove them yet. 2. Turn the jack handle to the right to raise the jack lift head a few inches. 5-30 CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is...
  • Page 251 REAR EDGE OF FRONT WHEEL OPENING 3. For jacking at the vehicle’s front location, put the jack lift head about 6 inches (15 cm) from the rear edge of the front wheel opening or just behind the two bolts as shown. FRONT VEHICLE 4.
  • Page 252 5. Raise the vehicle by turning the jack handle to the right. Raise the vehicle far enough off the ground for the spare tire to fit under the vehicle. 6. Remove all wheel nuts and take off the flat tire. 5-32 Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts,...
  • Page 253 CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel. Tighten each nut by hand until the wheel is held against the hub.
  • Page 254 10. Tighten the wheel nuts firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. 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. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts. If you have to replace them, be sure to get equipment wheel nuts.
  • Page 255 Storing the Flat Tire and Tools Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. 4fter you’ve the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you’lineed...
  • Page 256 Storing the Spare Tire and Tools Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. The compact spare is for temporary use only.

  • Page 257: Compact Spare Tire

    Compact Spare Tire Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be 60 psi (420 Wa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inflated.

  • Page 258: If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud

    If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice or Snow What you don’t want to do when your vehicle is stuck is to spin your wheels too fast. The method known as “rocking” can help you get out when you’re stuck, but you must use caution.
  • Page 259 NOTES $ & 5-39...
  • Page 260 NOTES 5-40...
  • Page 261 Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
  • Page 262 If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll want to use the proper Buick Service Manual. It tells you much more about how to service your vehicle than this manual can. To order the proper service manual, see “Service and Owner Publications”...
  • Page 263 You can be injured and your vehicle could be to do service work on damaged if you vehicle without knowing enough about it. Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task.
  • Page 264 If this occurs, return to your authorized Buick dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
  • Page 265 Fuels in Foreign Countries If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
  • Page 266 The tethered cap is behind a hinged door on the left side of your vehicle. While refueling, let the cap hang by the tether below the fuel fill opening. To remove the cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The cap has go of the cap too soon, it will spring back to the right.
  • Page 267 NOTICE: If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light and your fuel tank and emissions system may be damaged.
  • Page 268 Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and other fluids, and plastic or rubber. You or others could be burned. careful things that will burn onto a hot engine. Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the...
  • Page 269 When you open the hood on the 3 100 (Code M j Engine, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir B. Battery C. Radiator Fill Cap D. Remote Positive Battery Terminal E. Power Steering Fluid Reservoir F. Engine Oil Fill Cap G.
  • Page 270 Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil If the LOW OIL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.
  • Page 271 Checking 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 down, and check the level. When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need to add at least one quart oil.
  • Page 272 The engine oil fill cap is located toward the front of the engine near the yellow-looped engine oil dipstick handle. Be sure to fill it enough to put the level somewhere in the proper operating range. Push the dipstick all the way back in when you’re through.
  • Page 273 RECOMMENDED SAE VlSCOSlTT GRADE ENGINE OILS FOR BEST FUEL ECONOMY AND COLU STARTING, SELECT THE SAE VISCOSITY GRADE FOR THE EXPECTED TEMPERATURE RANGE. LOOK FOR MIS WEATHER SYMBOL 100.. + 16 Sw-30 PREFERRED ’ ; ; COLD WEATHER DO NOT USE SAE GRADE OIL NOT RECOMMENDED As shown in the chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle.
  • Page 274 Engine Oil Additives Don’t add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to advise if you think something should be added. When to Change Engine Oil Your vehicle has an Oil Life Monitor. This feature will let you know when to change your oil and usually between 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and filter 7,500 miles (12 500 km) since your last oil change.
  • Page 275 Air Cleaner To check or replace the air filter, loosen the wing nut on the air duct and lift up on the two clips located on the top of the filter cover. Disconnect the duct and reposition it while removing the side cover.
  • Page 276 Passenger Compartment Air Filter The passenger compartment air filter is located underneath your hood just below the windshield wiper on the car’s passenger side (underneath the air inlet grille). The filter traps most of the pollen from the air entering the air conditioning module.
  • Page 277 See “Scheduled Maintenance Services” in the Index. How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you choose to have this done at your 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 278 In heavy traffic especially in hot weather. While pulling a trailer. To get the right reading, the fluid should be at normal operating temperature, which is 180°F to 200°F (82°C 93°C). Get the vehicle warmed up by driving about 15 miles (24 km) when outside temperatures are above (10°C).
  • Page 279 3. Check both side-s of the dipstick, and read lower level. The fluid level must be in the cross-hatched area. 4. If the fluid level is in the acceptable range, push the dipstick back in all the way. How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle fluid to use.
  • Page 280 3. After adding fluid, recheck the fluid level as described under “How to Check.” 4. When the correct fluid level is obtained, push the dipstick back in all the way. Engine Coolant The cooling s stem in your vehicle is filled with DEX-COOL engine coolant.
  • Page 281 What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean water (preferably distilled) and one-half DEX-COOL@ coolant which won’t damage aluminum parts. If you use this mixture, you don’t need to add anything else. Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous.
  • Page 282 Checking Coolant When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at the COLD mark or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to the HOT mark or a little higher. 6-22 If this light comes on, it means you’re low on engine coolant.
  • Page 283 CAUTION: Turning the radiator pressure cap when the engine and radiator are hot can allow steam and scalding liquids to blow out and burn you badly. With the coolant recovery tank, you will almost never have to add coolant at the radiator. Never turn the radiator pressure cap little when the engine and radiator are hot.
  • Page 284 Power Steering Fluid When to Check Power Steering Fluid It is not necessary to regularly check power steering fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or you hear an unusual noise. A fluid loss in this system could indicate a problem.
  • Page 285 What to Use To determine what kind of fluid to use, “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Index. Always use the proper fluid. Failure to fluid can cause leaks and damage hoses and seals. Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
  • Page 286 NOTICE: When using concentrated washer fluid, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for adding water. Don’t mix water with ready-to-use washer fluid. Water can cause the solution to freeze and damage your washer fluid tank and other parts of the washer system. Also, water doesn’t clean as well as washer fluid.
  • Page 287 There are only two reasons why the brake fluid level in the reservoir might go down. The first is that the brake fluid goes down to an acceptable level during normal brake lining wear. When new linings are put in, the fluid level goes back up.
  • Page 288 NOTICE: Using the wrong fluid can badly damage brake system parts. For example, just drops of mineral-based oil, such as engine oil, in your brake system can damage brake system parts so badly that they’ll have to be replaced. Don’t let someone put in the wrong kind fluid.
  • Page 289 Battery Every new Buick has an ACDelco Freedom@ battery. You never have to add water to one of these. When it’s time for a new battery, we recommend an ACDelco Freedom battery.
  • Page 290 Vehicle Storage If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for or more, remove the black, negative the battery. This will help keep your battery from running down. CAUTION: Batteries have acid that can burn you and gas that can explode. You can be badly hurt if you aren’t careful.
  • Page 291 Headlamps I. Pull up on the headlamp retainers to release the assembly locator tabs. 2. Slide the headlamp assembly out of the slots. 3. Lift the plastic locking tab on the electrical connector and pull the connector from the headlamp bulb socket.
  • Page 292 To check the aim, the vehicle should be properly prepared as follows: Place the vehicle a level pad or surface. The vehicle should not have any snow, ice or mud attached to The vehicle should be fully assembled and all other work stopped while headlamp aiming is being done.
  • Page 293 you find that the headlamp aiming needs adjustment, follow these steps: Driver’s Side Headlamp Shown A. Vertical aim adjustment screw B. Horizontal aim adjustment screw 1. Start by opening the hood and locating the vertical and horizontal aim indicators. The aiming screw for the vertical aim indicator is at the center of the headlamp cover (A) and the aiming screw for the horizontal aim indicator is on the outboard side of...
  • Page 294 2. Using an E8 Tom@ socket, turn the horizontal aiming adjustment screw (B) until the the pointer is lined up with the center marking on the horizontal block index plate (C). 3. To adjust the vertical aim, use an E8 Tom@ socket and turn the vertical aiming adjustment screw until the bubble inside the level (D) is centered at “0”...
  • Page 295 3. Remove the bulb by turning it one-quarter of a turn right to left. 4. Place the new bulb into the bulb socket. 5. Turn the bulb one-quarter of a turn to the right replace. 6. Close the trunk. Tail/Stop/Turn Signal Lamp 1.
  • Page 296 3. Squeeze the tab on the socket and turn the socket right to left. 4. Pull out the socket. 5. Pull the bulb out of the socket. (There are two bulbs on each taillamp.) 6. Push in a new bulb. 7.
  • Page 297 Then: 1. Install the new bulbs into the applique sockets (B). 2. Connect the applique to the lid. 3. Reconnect the wing nuts to the studs on the applique and hand-tighten. 4. Close the trunk lid. Back-up Lamp The back-up lamps are located in the (Refer to the trunk lid applique removal procedure earlier...
  • Page 298 “Capacities and Specifications” in the Index. Tires Your new vehicle comes with high-quality tires made by a leading tire manufacturer. If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see your Buick Warranty booklet for details.
  • Page 299 Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are dangerous. Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a 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 300 NOTICE: (Continued) If your tires have too much air (overinflation), you can get the following: Unusual wear Bad handling Rough ride Needless damage from road hazards. When to Check Check your tires once a month or more. Don’t forget your compact spare tire. It should be at 60 psi (420 kPa).
  • Page 301 When rotating your tires, always use the correct rotation pattern shown here. Don’t include the compact spare tire in tire rotation. After the tires have been rotated, adjust the front and rear inflation pressures as shown on the Tire-Loading Information label. Make certain that all properly tightened.
  • Page 302 The tire has a puncture, cut or other damage that can’t be repaired well because 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 303 Uniform Tire Quality Grading The following information relates to the system developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance. (This applies only to vehicles sold in the United States.) The grades are molded on the sidewalls of most passenger car tires.
  • Page 304 Temperature A, B, C The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure.
  • Page 305 GM original equipment parts. This way, you will be sure to have the right wheel, wheel bolts and wheel nuts for your Buick model. 1UTION: Using the wrong replacement wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts on your vehicle can be dangerous.
  • Page 306 Tire Chains NOTICE: Use tire chains only where legal and only when you must. Use only SAE Class that are the proper size for your tires. Install them on the front tires and tighten them as tightly as possible with the ends securely fastened.
  • Page 307 Cleaning the Inside of Your Vehicle Use a vacuum cleaner often to get rid of dust and loose dirt. Wipe vinyl, leather, plastic and painted surfaces with a clean, damp cloth. Your dealer has two cleaners, Multi-Purpose Interior Cleaner and Capture Non-Solvent Dry Spot and Soil Remover for cleaning fabric and carpet.
  • Page 308 Special Fabric Cleaning Problems Stains caused by such things as catsup, coffee (black), egg, fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, vomit, urine and blood can be removed as follows: 1 . Carefully scrape off excess stain, then sponge the soiled area with cool water. 2.
  • Page 309 Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use only mild soap and water to clean the top surfaces of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones or waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield and even make it difficult to see through the windshield under certain conditions.
  • Page 310 Cleaning Glass Surfaces Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner (GM P a r t 1050427) or a liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal tobacco smoke and dust films on interior glass. Don’t use abrasive cleaners on glass, because they may cause scratches.
  • Page 311 Cleaning the Outside of Your Vehicle The paint finish on your vehicle provides beauty, depth color, gloss retention and durability. Washing Your Vehicle The best way to preserve your vehicle’s finish is to keep it clean by washing it often with lukewarm or cold water. Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays Don’t use strong soaps or chemical detergents.
  • Page 312 Exterior painted surfaces are subject to aging, weather and chemical fallout that can take their toll over a period of years. You can help to keep the paint finish looking new by keeping your vehicle garaged or covered whenever possible. Cleaning Aluminum Wheels Equipped) Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with...
  • Page 313 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 occurs first.
  • Page 314 Appearance Care Materials Chart PART NUMBER SIZE 994954 23 25 in. i n . 1050172 (0.473 L) 1050173 (0.473 L) (0.473 L) 1050174 1050214 32 (0.946 L) 1050427 oz. (0.680 L) 1052870 (0.473 1052918"" 8 oz. (0.237 L) oz. (0.473 L) 1052925 1052929 oz.
  • Page 315 Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) ENGINE MODEL CODE YEAR This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. 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.
  • Page 316 Headlamp Wiring The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker in the underhood electrical center. An electrical overload will cause the lamps to go on and off, or in some cases to remain off. If this happens, have your headlamp system checked right away.
  • Page 317 Circuit Description Breaker Not Used Power Windows/Sunroof Rear Defog Power Seats Description Fuse Not Used Ignition Signal Hot in Start PCM, BCM U/H Relay Power Mirrors Panel Dimming Ignition Signal Hot in RUN, Unlock and Start -- Cluster, Powertrain Control Module, Body Control Module DRL Module lntenor Lamps...
  • Page 318 Description Fuse Stoplamps Parking Lamps Auxiliary Power Connection (Power Drop) Hot in ACC and RUN Crank Signal Body Control Module, Cluster, Powertrain Control Modules Ignition Signal HVAC Control Head Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) Air Bag Anti-lock Brake Controls, Body Control Module Hazard Flashers Not Used...
  • Page 319 Underhood Electrical Center Some fuses and relays are in the underhood electrical center on the passenger's side the engine compartment. ( 3 1 1 4 ) ( 6 1 [ 7 1 1 8 1 Fuse Description Cooling Fan Starter Solenoid Power Seats, Rear Defog High Blower, Hazard Flasher, Stoplamps, Power Mirror, Door Locks...
  • Page 320 Relay Description A/C Clutch Horn Not Used Not Used Fuel Pump Fuse Description Not Used Generator A/C Compressor Clutch Not Used Electronic Ignition Transaxle Horn Fuel Injector Oxygen Sensor 6-60 Fuse Description Engine Emissions Not Used Headlamp (Right) Rear Compartment Release Parking Lamps Fuel Pump Headlamp (Left)
  • Page 321 Replacement Bulbs Lamps Exterior ......Back-up Center High-Mounted Stop Front Parking/Turn Signal .
  • Page 322 Engine Specifications 3100 (Code M) ........Type Displacement Firing Order...
  • Page 323 Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle, Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment How This Section is Organized Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule 7-1 3 Part B: Owner Checks and Services...

  • Page 324: Introduction

    Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements new vehicle warranties. See your your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet, or your Buick dealer for details. Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment.

  • Page 325: How This Section Is Organized

    How This Section is Organized The remainder of this section is divided into five parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” shows what to have done and how often. Some of these services can be complex, so unless you are technically qualified and have the necessary equipment, you should let your dealer’s service department or another qualified service center do these jobs.

  • Page 326: Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services

    Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to help you keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we don’t know exactly how you’ll drive it. You may drive very short distances only a few times a week. Or you may drive long distances all the time in very hot, dusty weather.
  • Page 327 Maintenance Schedule The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles k m ) (166 000 should be performed after 100,000 miles k m ) (166 000 at the same intervals. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be performed at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km).
  • Page 328 Maintenance Schedule 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 329 Maintenance Schedule Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil”...
  • Page 330 Maintenance Schedule 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary.
  • Page 331 Maintenance Schedule 52,500 Miles (87 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset “Engine in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 332 Maintenance Schedule 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Sewice. (See footnote Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
  • Page 333 Maintenance Schedule Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. See Index.
  • Page 334 Maintenance Schedule 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) Inspect spark plug wires. An Emission Control Service. Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: In heavy city traffic where the outside temperature regularly reaches 90°F C) or higher.

  • Page 335: Part B: Owner Checks And Services

    Part 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 Part...

  • Page 336: At Least Twice A Year

    At Least Twice a Year Restraint System Check Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your belts, buckles, latch plates, retractors and anchorages are working properly. If your vehicle has a built-in child restraint, also periodically make sure the harness straps, latch plates, buckle, clip, retractors and anchorages are working properly.
  • Page 337 Starter Switch Check CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be injured. Follow the steps below. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2.
  • Page 338 Ignition Transaxle Lock Check While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift lever is in PARK (P). The key should come out only in LOCK.

  • Page 339: Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections

    Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed below are inspections and services which should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, each spring and fall). You should let your dealer’s service department or other qualijied service center do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.

  • Page 340: Part D: Recommended Fluids And Lubricants

    Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, part number or specification may be obtained from your dealer. USAGE FLUIDLUBRICANT Engine Oil Engine Oil with the American Petroleum Institute Certified For Gasoline Engines “Starburst” symbol of the proper viscosity.

  • Page 341: Part E: Maintenance Record

    Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service in the boxes provided after the maintenance interval. Any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on the following record pages.
  • Page 342 Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-20...
  • Page 343 Maintenance Record 7-21...
  • Page 344 Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE 9ING SRVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-22...
  • Page 345 Maintenance Record SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-23...
  • Page 346 Maintenance Record ODOMETER SERVICED READING MAINTENANCE PERFORMED 7-24...
  • Page 347 Section 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects. Customer Satisfaction Procedure Customer Assistance for Text...
  • Page 348 Buick dealers have the facilities, trained technicians and up-to-date information to promptly address any concerns you may have. However, if a concern has not been resolved to your complete satisfaction, take the following steps: STEP ONE Discuss your concern with a member of dealership management.
  • Page 349 If after contacting a member of dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be resolved by the dealership without further help, contact the Buick Customer Relations Center by calling 1-800-521-7300. In Canada, contact GM of Canada Customer Communication Centre in Oshawa by calling 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).

  • Page 350: Customer Assistance For Text

    To assist customers who are deaf, hard speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs), Buick has TTY equipment available Assistance Center. Any TTY user can communicate with Buick by dialing: 1 -800-83-BUICK. (TTY users in Canada can dial 1-800-263-3830.) hearing, or its Customer...

  • Page 351: Roadside Assistance

    Takes the anxiety out of uncertain situations by providing easy access to service professionals trained to work with Buick owners, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays. For details on Buick Premium Roadside Assistance, please consult your Buick Premium Roadside Assistance owner booklet included with your owner’s manual.

  • Page 352: Courtesy Transportation

    Courtesy Transportation, a program which will provide Buick retail and lease customers with: Reimbursement toward a loaner vehicle, courtesy of Buick Motor Division, up to $30 a day (five days maximum) for vehicles requiring overnight warranty repairs. Also, reimbursement up to $30 a day (five days maximum) may be available for the cost of a rental car, bus or even a cab.

  • Page 353: Gm Participation In An Alternative Dispute

    Plan (CAMVAP). General Motors reserves the right to change eligibility limitations and/or to discontinue its participation in this program. Both Buick and your Buick dealer are committed to making sure you are completely satisfied with your new vehicle. Our experience has shown that,...

  • Page 354: Warranty Information

    Some state laws may require you to use this program before filing a claim with a state-run arbitration program or in the courts. For further information, contact the BBB at 1-800-955-5100 or the Buick Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-521 -7300. Warranty Information Your vehicle comes with a separate warranty booklet that contains detailed warranty information.

  • Page 355: Reporting Safety Defects To The

    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 Relations Center 902 E. Hamilton Avenue Flint, MI 48550 In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
  • Page 356 1998 BUCK SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.) SERVICE MANUALS Service Manuals have the diagnosis and repair information on engines, transmission, axle, suspension, brakes, electrical, steering, body, etc.
  • Page 357 ORDER TOLL FREE (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-782-4356 (Monday-Friday 8 : O O AM 6 : O O PM EST) Only FAX Orders 1-31 3-865-5927 PUBLICATION FORM NUMBER Service Manual Car & Light Truck Transmission Unit Repair Owner’s Manual In Portfolio Owner’s Manual Without Portfolio NOTE: Dealers and Companies please provide dealer or company name, and also name of the person to whose attention the shipment should be sent.
  • Page 358 , @ % NOTES 8-12...
  • Page 359 Section 9 Index Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle Air Bag ......How Does it Restrain Works .
  • Page 360 ....Back-up Lamp Bulb Replacement ........Battery .
  • Page 361 Cleaning ......Aluminum Wheels ......Built-in Child Restraint Built-in Child Restraint Harness .
  • Page 362 Driving ........City .
  • Page 363 Fuel Canadian FillingYourTank Gage Foreign Countries Fuses and Circuit Breakers G a g e s Engine Coolant Temperature Fuel GAWR Gear Positions. Automatic Transaxle GloveBox ......Gross Axle Weight Rating .
  • Page 364 K e y Lock Cylinders Service Key Reminder Warning Keys Labels Certification Service Parts Identification ..... . Tire-Loading Information ....Vehicle Identification Number Lamps Courtesy...
  • Page 365 Magnetic Variable Effort Steering Maintenance. Normal Replacement Parts ......Maintenance Record ......Maintenance Schedule .
  • Page 366 ....Passenger Compartment Air Filter Passing . . g ........PASS-Key I1 .
  • Page 367 ........Safety Belts ........Adults Center Passenger Position .
  • Page 368 ......Starter Switch Check Starting Your Engine ......2-19 .
  • Page 369 Passing Safety Chains ....... Tongueweight Total Weight on Tires Towing Turnsignals Weight When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 4-37...
  • Page 370 Service Station Checkpoints REMOTE POSITIVE BATERY TERMINAL P5-5 WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID TI RES ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK P6-11 SECONDARY HOOD RELEASE P6-8 FUEL ENGINE COO~ANT HOOD RECOVERY TANK RELEASE DOOR P6-6 P5- 1 9 AND P6-22 P6-8 For detailed information, refer to the page number listed, or see tl Index in the back of the owner’s manual.

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