Page 1: Table Of Contents
2004 Buick Park Avenue Owner Manual Seats and Restraint Systems ... 1-1 Front Seats ... 1-2 Safety Belts ... 1-6 Child Restraints ... 1-27 Air Bag Systems ... 1-49 Restraint System Check ... 1-58 Features and Controls ... 2-1 Keys ...
Page 2: How To Use This Manual
GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, BUICK, the BUICK Emblem and the name PARK AVENUE 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 after that time without further notice.
Page 3 Safety Warnings and Symbols You will ﬁnd a number of safety cautions in this book. We use a box and the word CAUTION to tell you about things that could hurt you if you were to ignore the warning. CAUTION: These mean there is something that could hurt you or other people.
Page 4 Vehicle Damage Warnings Also, in this book you will ﬁnd these notices: Notice: These mean there is something that could damage your vehicle. A notice will 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 5 These are some examples of vehicle symbols you may ﬁnd on your vehicle:...
Page 6 NOTES...
Page 7: Seats And Restraint Systems
Section 1 Front Seats ...1-2 Power Seats ...1-2 Power Lumbar ...1-3 Heated Seats ...1-3 Reclining Seatbacks ...1-4 Head Restraints ...1-5 Safety Belts ...1-6 Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone ...1-6 Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ...1-10 How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ...1-12 Driver Position ...1-12 Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy ...1-18 Right Front Passenger Position ...1-19...
Page 8: Front Seats
Front Seats Power Seats The power seat controls are located on the outboard sides of both the driver’s and front passenger’s seats. To adjust the power seats, do the following: Horizontal Control: Raise or lower the front of the seat cushion by pressing the forward edge of the control up or down.
Page 9: Power Lumbar
Power Lumbar If your vehicle has this feature, the power lumbar control is located on the outboard side of each front seat. Use the power seat control ﬁrst to get the proper position. Then continue with the lumbar adjustment. To reshape the lower seatback, press the lumbar control forward to increase support and rearward to decrease support.
Page 10: Reclining Seatbacks
Reclining Seatbacks The vertical control described previously in this section reclines the front seatbacks. But don’t have a seatback reclined if your vehicle is moving. CAUTION: 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.
Page 11: Head Restraints
Head Restraints Adjust your head restraint so that the top of the restraint is closest to the top of your head. This position reduces the chance of a neck injury in a crash. On some models, the head restraints tilt forward and rearward also.
Page 12: Safety Belts
Safety Belts Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone This part of the manual tells you how to use safety belts properly. It also tells you some things you should not do with safety belts. CAUTION: Don’t let anyone ride where he or she can’t wear a safety belt properly.
Page 13: Why Safety Belts Work
In most states and in all Canadian provinces, the law says to wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a crash, you don’t know if it will be a bad one. A few crashes are mild, and some crashes can be so serious that even buckled up, a person wouldn’t survive.
Page 14 Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.
Page 15 The person keeps going until stopped by something. or the instrument panel... In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield...
Page 16: Questions And Answers About Safety Belts
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. 1-10 Questions and Answers About Safety Belts...
Page 17 If my vehicle has air bags, why should I have to wear safety belts? Air bags are in many vehicles today and will be in most of them in the future. But they are supplemental systems only; so they work with safety belts –...
Page 18: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly
How to Wear Safety Belts Properly This part is only for people of adult size. Be aware that there are special things to know about safety belts and children. And there are different rules for smaller children and babies. If a child will be riding in your vehicle, see Older Children on page 1-27 or Infants and Young Children on page 1-30.
Page 19 4. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see Safety Belt Extender on page 1-26. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Page 20 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 if your shoulder belt is too loose. In a crash, you would move forward too much, which could increase injury. The shoulder belt should ﬁt against your body.
Page 21 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 22 What’s wrong with this? The shoulder belt is worn under the arm. It should be worn over the shoulder at all times. 1-16 CAUTION: You can be seriously injured if you wear the shoulder belt under your arm. In a crash, your body would move too far forward, which would increase the chance of head and neck injury.
Page 23 What’s wrong with this? The belt is twisted across the body. CAUTION: You can be seriously injured by a twisted belt. In a crash, you wouldn’t have the full width of the belt to spread impact forces. If a belt is twisted, make it straight so it can work properly, or ask your dealer to ﬁx it.
Page 24: 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 25: Center 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 26 When you sit in the 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. 1-20 To make the belt shorter, pull its free end as shown until the belt is snug.
Page 27: Rear Seat Passengers
Rear Seat Passengers It’s very important for rear seat passengers to buckle up! Accident statistics show that unbelted people in the rear seat are hurt more often in crashes than those who are wearing safety belts. Rear passengers who aren’t safety belted can be thrown out of the vehicle in a crash.
Page 28 If the belt stops before it reaches the buckle, tilt the 3. To make the lap part tight, pull down on the buckle latch plate and keep pulling until you can buckle it. end of the belt as you pull up on the shoulder belt. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure.
Page 29 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 30 Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides provide added safety belt comfort for older children who have outgrown booster seats and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide better positions the belt away from the neck and head.
Page 31 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide over the belt, and insert the two edges of the belt into the slots of the guide. 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies ﬂat. The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide on top.
Page 32: Safety Belt Extender
4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as described in Rear Seat Passengers on page 1-21. Make sure that the shoulder belt crosses the shoulder. To remove and store the comfort guides, squeeze the belt edges together so that you can take them out of the guides.
Page 33: Child Restraints
Child Restraints Older Children Older children who have outgrown booster seats 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. What is the proper way to wear safety belts? If possible, an older child should wear a lap-shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a...
Page 34 1-28 CAUTION: 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 35 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.
Page 36: Infants And Young Children
Infants and Young Children Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! This includes infants and all other children. Neither the distance traveled nor the age and size of the traveler changes the need, for everyone, to use safety restraints. In fact, the law in every state in the United States and in every Canadian province says children up to some age must be restrained while in a vehicle.
Page 37 CAUTION: (Continued) For example, in a crash at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12-lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240-lb. (110 kg) force on a person’s arms. A baby should be secured in an appropriate restraint. CAUTION: Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inﬂates can be seriously injured or killed.
Page 38 What are the different types of add-on child restraints? Add-on child restraints, which are purchased by the vehicle’s owner, are available in four basic types. Selection of a particular restraint should take into consideration not only the child’s weight, height, and age but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will be used.
Page 39: Child Restraint Systems
CAUTION: The body structure of a young child is quite unlike that of an adult or older child, for whom the safety belts are designed. A young child’s hip bones are still so small that the vehicle’s regular safety belt may not remain low on the hip bones, as it should.
Page 40 A rear-facing infant seat (B) provides restraint with the seating surface against the back of the infant. The harness system holds the infant in place and, in a crash, acts to keep the infant positioned in the restraint. 1-34 A forward-facing child seat (C-E) provides restraint for the child’s body with the harness and also sometimes with surfaces such as T-shaped or shelf-like shields.
Page 41 A booster seat (F-G) is a child restraint designed to improve the ﬁt of the vehicle’s safety belt system. Some booster seats have a shoulder belt positioner, and some high-back booster seats have a ﬁve-point harness. A booster seat can also help a child to see out the window.
Page 42: Where To Put The Restraint
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 43 CAUTION: (Continued) Always secure a rear-facing child restraint in a rear seat. If you secure a forward-facing child restraint in the right front seat, always move the front passenger seat as far back as it will go. It is better to secure the child restraint in a rear seat.
Page 44: Top Strap
Top Strap Some child restraints have a top strap, or “top tether.” It can help restrain the child restraint during a collision. For it to work, a top strap must be properly anchored to the vehicle. Some top strap-equipped child restraints are designed for use with or without the top strap being anchored.
Page 45: Top Strap Anchor Location
In Canada, the law requires that forward-facing child restraints have a top strap, and that the strap be anchored. In the United States, some child restraints also have a top strap. If your child restraint has a top strap, it should be anchored. Anchor the top strap to one of the following anchor points.
Page 46 Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) Your vehicle has the LATCH system. You will ﬁnd anchors (A) for all three rear seating positions. This system, designed to make installation of child restraints easier, does not use the vehicle’s safety belts. Instead, it uses vehicle anchors (A, B) and child restraint attachments to secure the restraints.
Page 47 In order to use the LATCH system in your vehicle, you need a child restraint designed for that system. To assist you in locating the lower anchors for this child restraint system, each seating position with the LATCH system has a label on the seatback at each lower anchor position.
Page 48: Securing A Child Restraint Designed For The Latch System
Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System 1. Find the anchors for the seating position you want to use, where the bottom of the seatback meets the back of the seat cushion. 2. Put the child restraint on the seat. 3.
Page 49 Tilt the latch plate to adjust the belt if needed. 3. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 1-43...
Page 50: Securing A Child Restraint In A Center Rear Seat Position
4. To tighten the belt, pull up on the shoulder belt while you push down on the child restraint. If you’re using a 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. 5.
Page 51 Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint. Secure the child restraint when and as the instructions say. CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger’s air bag if it inﬂates.
Page 52: Securing A Child Restraint In The Right Front Seat Position
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. If you’re using a forward-facing child restraint, you may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
Page 53 Your vehicle has a right front passenger air bag. Never put a rear-facing child restraint in this seat. Here is why: CAUTION: A child in a rear-facing child restraint can be seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inﬂates. This is because the back of the rear-facing child restraint would be very close to the inﬂating air bag.
Page 54 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of the retractor to set the lock. 1-48 6. To tighten the belt, feed the lap belt back into the retractor while you push down on the child restraint. You may ﬁnd it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
Page 55: Air Bag Systems
Air Bag Systems This part explains the frontal and side impact air bag systems. Your vehicle has four air bags – a frontal air bag for the driver, another frontal air bag for the right front passenger, a side impact air bag for the driver, and another side impact air bag for the right front passenger.
Page 56 CAUTION: Both frontal and side impact air bags inﬂate with great force, faster than the blink of an eye. If you’re too close to an inﬂating air bag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, it could seriously injure you. Safety belts help keep you in position for air bag inﬂation before and during a crash.
Page 57: Where Are The Air Bags
There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument panel, which shows AIR BAG. The system checks the air bag electrical system for malfunctions. The light tells you if there is an electrical problem. See Air Bag Readiness Light on page 3-36 for more information.
Page 58 The right front passenger’s frontal air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. 1-52 The driver’s side impact air bag is in the side of the driver’s seatback closest to the door.
Page 59 The right front passenger’s side impact air bag is in the side of the passenger’s seatback closest to the door. CAUTION: 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 causing severe injury or even death.
Page 60: When Should An Air Bag Inﬂate
When Should an Air Bag Inﬂate? The driver’s and right front passenger’s frontal air bags are designed to inﬂate in moderate to severe frontal or near-frontal crashes. But they are designed to inﬂate only if the impact speed is above the system’s designed “threshold level.”...
Page 61: What Makes An Air Bag Inﬂate
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. For both frontal and side impact air bags, the sensing system triggers a release of gas from the inﬂator, which inﬂates the air bag.
Page 62 What Will You See After an Air Bag Inﬂates? After the air bag inﬂates, it quickly deﬂates, so quickly that some people may not even realize the air bag inﬂated. Some components of the air bag module will be hot for a short time. These components include the steering wheel hub for the driver’s frontal air bag and the instrument panel for the right front passenger’s frontal air bag.
Page 63 In many crashes severe enough to inﬂate an air bag, windshields are broken by vehicle deformation. Additional windshield breakage may also occur from the right front passenger air bag. • Air bags are designed to inﬂate only once. After an air bag inﬂates, you’ll need some new parts for your air bag system.
Page 64: Restraint System Check
Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. There are parts of the air bag systems in several places around your vehicle. Your dealer and the service manual have information about servicing your vehicle and the air bag systems.
Page 65: Replacing Restraint System Parts After A Crash
Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash CAUTION: A crash can damage the restraint systems in your vehicle. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.
Page 66 NOTES 1-60...
Page 67: Features And Controls
Section 2 Keys ...2-3 Remote Keyless Entry System ...2-5 Remote Keyless Entry System Operation ...2-6 Doors and Locks ...2-10 Door Locks ...2-10 Central Door Unlocking System ...2-11 Power Door Locks ...2-11 Door Ajar Reminder ...2-11 Delayed Locking ...2-11 Programmable Automatic Door Locks ...2-12 Rear Door Security Locks ...2-14 Lockout Protection ...2-14 Leaving Your Vehicle ...2-14...
Page 68 Section 2 ® OnStar System ...2-41 ® HomeLink Transmitter ...2-43 ® Programming the HomeLink Transmitter ...2-43 Storage Areas ...2-47 Glove Box ...2-47 Garage Door Opener Compartment ...2-47 Center Console Storage Area ...2-48 Assist Handles ...2-49 Features and Controls Rear Storage Area ...2-49 Rear Seat Armrest ...2-49 Rear Seat Pass Through ...2-49 Convenience Net ...2-49...
Page 69: Keys
Keys CAUTION: Leaving 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 the power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Do not leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
Page 70 Your vehicle has a two-key system. One key is the master and the other is a valet key. The master key is used for the ignition, as well as the driver’s door lock, trunk and glove box. The VALET key is used for the ignition and the driver’s door only.
Page 71: Remote Keyless Entry System
Remote Keyless Entry System If equipped, the remote keyless entry system operates on a radio frequency subject to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Rules and with Industry Canada. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1.
Page 72: Remote Keyless Entry System Operation
Remote Keyless Entry System Operation If your vehicle has this feature, you can lock and unlock your doors or unlock your trunk from about 3 feet (1 m) up to 30 feet (9 m) away using the remote keyless entry transmitter supplied with your vehicle. If your vehicle has the Driver Information Center (DIC), the numbers on the back of the transmitters correspond to the DIC’s Driver #1 and Driver #2.
Page 73: Personalization Features
Personalization Features Each remote keyless entry transmitter can be programmed to the driver’s preference for automatic door locks, security feedback, delayed locking, memory seat, perimeter lighting, outside curb view assist mirror and window lockout. Each of these personalization features will be explained in this manual. If your vehicle is equipped with the Driver Information Center (DIC), you can also program any of these features through the DIC.
Page 74: Theft-Deterrent System
Each remote keyless entry transmitter can be programmed to a different mode according to the user’s preference. To change to another mode do the following: 1. Press and hold LOCK on the power door lock switch on the driver’s door throughout the procedure. 2.
Page 75: Battery Replacement
Battery Replacement Under normal use, the battery in your remote keyless entry transmitter should last about four years. You can tell the battery is weak if the transmitter won’t work at the normal range in any location. If you have to get close to your vehicle before the transmitter works, it’s probably time to change the battery.
Page 76: Doors And Locks
Doors and Locks Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. • Passengers — especially children — can easily open the doors and fall out of a moving vehicle. When a door is locked, the handle will not open it. You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a crash if the doors are not locked.
Page 77 Central Door Unlocking System If your vehicle has a theft-deterrent system, all doors will unlock if the key is held in the outside key cylinder unlock position for more than two seconds. The doors will also unlock if the key is turned to the unlock position twice in three seconds.
Page 78: Programmable Automatic Door Locks
The delayed locking feature can be turned on or off for each remote keyless entry transmitter. To turn the feature on do the following: 1. Press and hold LOCK on the power door lock switch on the driver’s door throughout this procedure.
Page 79 Customizing Your Automatic Door Locks Feature You can program the automatic door locks feature to one of the following modes: Mode 0: No automatic door lock or unlock. Mode 1: All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P). No automatic door unlock. Mode 2: All doors automatically lock when shifted out of PARK (P).
Page 80: Rear Door Security Locks
Rear Door Security Locks Your vehicle is equipped with rear door security locks that prevent passengers from opening the rear doors of your vehicle from the inside. To use one of these locks, do the following: 1. Open the rear door you want to lock. 2.
Page 81: Trunk Lock Release
Trunk CAUTION: It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk lid open because carbon monoxide (CO) gas can come into your vehicle. You can’t see or smell CO. It can cause unconsciousness and even death. If you must drive with the trunk lid open or if electrical wiring or other cable connections must pass through the seal between the body and the trunk lid:...
Page 82: Emergency Trunk Release Handle
Remote Trunk Release Lockout The remote trunk release lockout button allows you to secure items in the trunk. Insert the ignition key into the TRUNK button, located to the left of the steering column. Turn the key one-quarter turn clockwise to LK then remove it from the button.
Page 83: Windows
Windows CAUTION: Leaving children in a vehicle with the windows closed is dangerous. A child can be overcome by the extreme heat and can suffer permanent injuries or even death from heat stroke. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle, especially with the windows closed in warm or hot weather.
Page 84: Power Windows
Power Windows Use the switches on the driver’s door armrest to control each of the windows while the ignition is on or while Retained Accessory Power (RAP) is active. See “Retained Accessory Power (RAP)” under Ignition Positions on page 2-24 for more information. In addition, each passenger door has a window switch.
Page 85: Theft-Deterrent Systems
Sun Visors Lighted Visor Vanity Mirror If your vehicle has this feature, when you open the visor vanity mirrors, the lamps turn on. To block out glare, swing down the visors. The larger sun visor can be removed from the center mount and moved to the side, while the auxiliary sun visor remains to block glare from the front.
Page 86 This light reminds you to activate the theft-deterrent system. Here’s how to do it: 1. Open the door. 2. Lock the door with the power door lock switch or the remote keyless entry transmitter (if equipped). The SECURITY light should come on and stay on. 3.
Page 87: Testing The Alarm
Testing the Alarm The alarm can be tested by following these steps: 1. From inside the vehicle, roll down the driver’s window and open the driver’s door. 2. Activate the system by locking the doors using the power door lock switch while the door is open, or using the remote keyless entry transmitter.
Page 88 ® PASS-Key III Operation Your vehicle is equipped with the PASS-Key (Personalized Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system. PASS-Key theft-deterrent system. This means you don’t have to do anything different to arm or disarm the system. It works when you insert or remove the key from the ignition.
Page 89: Starting And Operating Your Vehicle
To program the new key, do the following: 1. Verify that the new key has PK3 stamped on it. 2. Insert the current driver’s key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see your dealer for service. 3.
Page 90: Ignition Positions
Ignition Positions With the key in the ignition switch, you can turn to ﬁve different positions. A (ACCESSORY): In this position you can operate your electrical accessories. Press in the ignition switch as you turn the top of it toward you. B (LOCK): This is the only position from which you can remove the key.
Page 91: Key Reminder Warning
Key Reminder Warning If you leave your key in the ignition, with the engine off, you will hear a warning chime when you open the driver’s door. Retained Accessory Power (RAP) After you turn the ignition off and remove the key, you will still have power to such accessories as the radio, sunroof (option) and power windows for up to 10 minutes.
Page 92: Engine Coolant Heater
Engine Coolant Heater If your vehicle has this feature, in very cold weather, 0°F ( 18°C) or colder, the engine coolant heater can help. You’ll get easier starting and better fuel economy during engine warm-up. Usually, the coolant heater should be plugged in a minimum of four hours prior to starting your vehicle.
Page 93: Automatic Transaxle Operation
Automatic Transaxle Operation Your automatic transaxle has a shift lever located on the steering column. PARK (P): This position locks your front wheels. It’s the best position to use when you start your engine because your vehicle can’t move easily. CAUTION: It is dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the...
Page 94 REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. Notice: Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is moving forward could damage the transaxle. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Shift to REVERSE (R) only after your vehicle is stopped.
Page 95: Parking Brake
SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but lower fuel economy than THIRD (3). You can use SECOND (2) on hills. It can help control your speed as you go down steep mountain roads, but then you would also want to use your brakes off and on. Notice: Driving in SECOND (2) for more than 25 miles (40 km) or at speeds over 55 mph (90 km/h) may damage the transaxle.
Page 96: Shifting Into Park (P)
If you try to drive with the parking brake on, after about 20 feet (6.1 m) a chime will sound continuously until you release the parking brake. Also, the brake light will stay on until the parking brake is released. Notice: Driving with the parking brake on can overheat the brake system and cause premature wear or damage to brake system parts.
Page 97 1. Hold the brake pedal down with your right foot and set the parking brake. 2. Move the shift lever into PARK (P) like this: • Pull the lever toward you. • Move the lever up as far as it will go. 3.
Page 98: Torque Lock
Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running CAUTION: It can be dangerous to leave your vehicle with the engine running. Your vehicle could move suddenly if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake ﬁrmly set. And, if you leave the vehicle with the engine running, it could overheat and even catch ﬁre.
Page 99: Shifting Out Of Park (P)
Shifting Out of Park (P) Your vehicle has an automatic transaxle shift lock control system, which locks the shift lever in PARK (P) when the ignition is in the LOCK position. In addition, you have to fully apply your regular brakes before you can shift from PARK (P) when the ignition is in RUN.
Page 100: Engine Exhaust
Engine Exhaust CAUTION: Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can not see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death. You might have exhaust coming in if: • Your exhaust system sounds strange or different.
Page 101: Running Your Engine While You Are Parked
Running Your Engine While You Are Parked It is better not to park with the engine running. But if you ever have to, here are some things to know. CAUTION: Idling the engine with the climate control system off could allow dangerous exhaust into your vehicle.
Page 102: Mirrors
Mirrors Manual Rearview Mirror When you are sitting in a comfortable driving position, adjust the mirror so you can see clearly behind your vehicle. Grip the mirror in the center to move it up or down and side to side. The day/night adjustment allows you to adjust the mirror to avoid glare from the lamps behind you.
Page 103: Compass Operation
Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass Your vehicle may have an automatic dimming rearview mirror with a compass. Your vehicle’s mirror may ® also contain OnStar controls. See OnStar page 2-41 for more information. The mirror also includes an eight-point compass display in the upper right corner of the mirror face.
Page 104: Compass Variance
Compass Variance Compass variance is the difference between earth’s magnetic north and true geographic north. The mirror is set in zone eight upon leaving the factory. It will be necessary to adjust the compass to compensate for compass variance if you live outside zone eight. Under certain circumstances, as during a long distance cross-country trip, it will be necessary to adjust for compass variance.
Page 105: Outside Power Mirrors
Outside Power Mirrors Your vehicle has power mirror controls located on the driver’s door armrest. Press L or R on the selector switch located below the control pad to choose the left or right mirror. If you place the switch in the center position, no mirror movement will occur.
Page 106: Outside Convex Mirror
Outside Curb View Assist Mirror If you have the DIC feature, the passenger’s outside rearview mirror also includes a tilt-down feature that operates when the shift lever is in REVERSE (R). When the vehicle is shifted out of REVERSE (R), the passenger mirror will return to its original position after a ﬁve-second delay.
Page 107: Onstar System
Outside Automatic Dimming Heated Mirror If you have this feature, the driver’s side outside rearview mirror will adjust for the glare of headlamps behind you. This feature is controlled using the on and off settings on the automatic dimming rearview mirror. See “Automatic Dimming Rearview Mirror”...
Page 108 ® OnStar Services One of the following plans is normally included for a speciﬁc duration with each vehicle equipped with ® OnStar . You can upgrade or extend your OnStar service plan to meet your needs. Safe and Sound Plan •...
Page 109: Homelink ® Transmitter
® HomeLink Transmitter HomeLink universal transmitter and receiver, provides a way to replace up to three hand held transmitters used to activate devices such as gate operators, garage door openers, entry door locks, security systems and home lighting. ® Additional HomeLink information can be found on the internet at www.homelink.com or by calling 1-800-355-3515.
Page 110 Keep the original transmitter for use in other vehicles as ® well as for future HomeLink programming. It is also recommended that upon the sale of the vehicle, the ® programmed HomeLink buttons should be erased for security purposes. Refer to “Erasing HomeLink or, for assistance, contact HomeLink www.homelink.com or by calling 1-800-355-3515.
Page 111: Gate Operator And Canadian Programming
6. Locate in the garage, the garage door opener receiver (motor-head unit). Locate the “Learn” or “Smart” button. This can usually be found where the hanging antenna wire is attached to the motor-head unit. 7. Firmly press and release the “Learn” or “Smart” button.
Page 112: Using Homelink
® Using HomeLink Press and hold the appropriate HomeLink at least half of a second. The indicator light will come on while the signal is being transmitted. ® Erasing HomeLink Buttons To erase programming from the three buttons do the following: 1.
Page 113: Storage Areas
Storage Areas Glove Box Use the key to lock and unlock the glove box. To open the glove box, pull the handle upward until the latch opens. Garage Door Opener Compartment If your vehicle has this feature, the garage door opener storage area is located in the headliner near the front reading lamps.
Page 114: Center Console Storage Area
3. Place the height adapters on the proper peg by lining up the height adapters and the transmitter button on your garage door opener. 4. Use the hook and loop fastener found in the storage area and attach the garage door opener securely inside the console.
Page 115: Assist Handles
Assist Handles An assist handle over each rear door and the front passenger’s door can be used to help passenger’s get in or out of your vehicle. Rear Storage Area If your vehicle has this feature, the rear storage armrest contains two cupholders.
Page 116: Sunroof
Sunroof Your vehicle may be equipped with a sunroof. The sunroof has both manual and express features for opening the glass panel and sunshade. The switch for the sunroof is located on the headliner between the sun visors. The sunroof switch has a number of positions that control sunroof movement.
Page 117: Vehicle Personalization
Vehicle Personalization Memory Seat and Mirrors If your vehicle has this feature, the controls are located on the driver’s door panel, and are used to program and recall memory settings for the driver’s seating, outside mirror positions and climate controls. See Climate Controls Personalization on page 3-31 for more information.
Page 118 To store the exit position for an easy exit, use the following procedure: 1. First identify the DRIVER # by pressing the MEMORY button 1 or 2 or by pressing the unlock button on the transmitter. 2. Adjust the driver’s seat to the desired exit position. 3.
Page 119: Instrument Panel
Section 3 Instrument Panel Overview ...3-2 Hazard Warning Flashers ...3-4 Other Warning Devices ...3-4 Horn ...3-5 Tilt Wheel ...3-5 Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever ...3-5 Exterior Lamps ...3-12 Interior Lamps ...3-15 Head-Up Display (HUD) ...3-18 Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist (URPA) ...3-20 Accessory Power Outlets ...3-22 Ashtrays and Cigarette Lighter ...3-23 Climate Controls ...3-24 Dual Automatic Climate Control System ...3-24...
Page 120: Instrument Panel Overview
Instrument Panel Overview...
Page 121 The main components of your instrument panel are the following: A. Air Outlet. See Outlet Adjustment on page 3-29. B. Exterior Lamps Control. See Exterior Lamps on page 3-12. C. Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever. See Turn Signal/ Multifunction Lever on page 3-5. D.
Page 122: 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. The hazard warning ﬂasher button is located on top of the steering column.
Page 123: Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
Horn Press on the center area of the steering wheel to sound the horn. Tilt Wheel A tilt wheel allows you to adjust the steering wheel before you drive. You can also raise it to the highest level to give your legs more room when you exit and enter the vehicle.
Page 124 Turn and Lane-Change Signals 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.
Page 125 Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer To change the headlamps from low beam to high or high to low, pull the turn signal lever toward you, then release it. When the high beams are on, a light on the instrument panel cluster will also be on.
Page 126: Rainsense™ Ii Wipers
Rainsense™ II Wipers If your vehicle has this feature, the moisture sensor is mounted on the interior of the windshield below the rearview mirror and is used to automatically operate the wipers. This system operates by monitoring the amount of moisture build-up on the windshield. Wipes occur as needed to clear the windshield depending on the driving conditions and the sensitivity setting.
Page 127: Cruise Control
Windshield Washer At the top of the multifunction lever there is a paddle with the word PUSH on it. For “programmed” operation, press and release the paddle. The washer will provide a measured amount of ﬂuid to the windshield and the wiper will either stop or return to your original wiping speed.
Page 128 If your vehicle is in cruise control when the optional traction control system begins to limit wheel spin, the cruise control will automatically disengage. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9. When road conditions allow you to safely use it again, you may turn the cruise control back on.
Page 129 Resuming a Set Speed Setting the cruise control at a desired speed and then applying the brake will end the cruise control function. Once you are going about 25 mph (40 km/h) or more, you can move the cruise control switch from ON to R/A (Resume/Accelerate) brieﬂy to reset.
Page 130: Exterior Lamps
Using Cruise Control on Hills How well your cruise control will work on hills depends upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the accelerator pedal to maintain your speed. When going downhill, you may have to brake or shift to a lower gear to keep your speed down.
Page 131: Daytime Running Lamps
OFF: Pushing the exterior lamps control all the way in turns off all lamps and lights. Parking Lamps: Pulling the exterior lamps control out to the ﬁrst position turns on the parking lamps, license plate lamps, the sidemarker lamps and the instrument panel lights.
Page 132: Twilight Sentinel
When it is dark enough outside, your high-beam headlamps will change to low-beam headlamps at full brightness. The other lamps that turn on with your headlamps will also turn on. When it is bright enough outside, the regular lamps will turn off, and your high-beam headlamps change to the reduced brightness of DRL.
Page 133: Interior Lamps
Interior Lamps Instrument Panel Brightness Adjust the instrument panel light brightness by turning the exterior lamps control. Courtesy Lamps When any door is opened, several lamps go on. They make it easy for you to enter and leave your vehicle. You can also turn these lamps on by turning the exterior lamps control clockwise all the way past the normal stop.
Page 134: Perimeter Lighting
Perimeter Lighting When the unlock button on the remote keyless entry transmitter is pressed, the DRL, parking lamps and back-up lamps will come on if it is dark enough outside. This feature will only be activated when the security feedback feature is programmed to be in Modes 1, 3 or 5 on the transmitter.
Page 135: Front Reading Lamps
Front Reading Lamps The front reading lamps, located on the headliner, and the interior courtesy lamps will come on when you open a door. They will turn off when you turn on the ignition. To turn on the front reading lamps when the doors are closed, press the button behind the lamp you want to turn on.
Page 136: Glove Box Lamp
Glove Box Lamp When you open the glove box, a lamp will come on inside the glove box. This will automatically turn off when the glove box is closed. Battery Rundown Protection This feature shuts off all lamps that are left on for more than 10 minutes when the ignition is off.
Page 137 Be sure to continue scanning your displays, controls and driving environment just as you would in a vehicle without HUD. If you never look at your instrument panel, you may not see something important, such as a warning light. Notice: If you try to use the HUD image as a parking aid, you may misjudge the distance and damage your vehicle.
Page 138: Care Of The Hud
Care of the HUD Clean the inside of the windshield as necessary to remove any dirt or ﬁlm that reduces the sharpness or clarity of the HUD image. To clean the HUD lens, spray household glass cleaner on a soft, clean cloth. Gently wipe and dry the HUD lens.
Page 139: How The System Works
CAUTION: (Continued) parking. And, the system does not detect objects that are more than 5 feet (1.5 meters) behind the vehicle. So, unless you check carefully behind you before and when you back up, you could strike children, pedestrians, bicyclists or pets behind you, and they could be injured or killed.
Page 140: Accessory Power Outlets
If the URPA system is not functioning properly, the display will ﬂash red, indicating that there is a problem. The light will also ﬂash red while driving if a trailer is attached to your vehicle, or a bicycle or object is on the back of, or hanging out of your trunk.
Page 141: Ashtrays And Cigarette Lighter
Certain electrical accessories may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem see your dealer for additional information on accessory power outlets. Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to your vehicle may damage it or keep other components from working as they should.
Page 142: Climate Controls
Climate Controls Dual Automatic Climate Control System With this system you can control the heating, cooling and ventilation for your vehicle. Automatic Operation AUTO (Automatic): Press the AUTO button for automatic control of the inside temperature, the air delivery mode and the fan speed. 3-24 1.
Page 143: Manual Operation
Manual Operation Pressing the FAN or AIR FLOW buttons cancels automatic operation and places the system in manual mode. Press the AUTO button to return to automatic operation. TEMP (Temperature): To manually adjust the temperature inside the vehicle, push the TEMP arrow. Push the TEMP up arrow for warmer temperature settings and the TEMP down arrow for cooler temperature settings.
Page 144 VENT: Pressing the VENT button allows outside air to ﬂow through your vehicle without the air conditioning compressor working. To turn off the VENT selection, push the VENT button again. Selecting the VENT and AUTO buttons at the same time allows the system to control the airﬂow automatically without using the air conditioning compressor or the recirculation mode.
Page 145: Defogging And Defrosting
Defogging and Defrosting Fog on the inside of windows is a result of high humidity (moisture) condensing on the cool window glass. This can be minimized if the climate control system is used properly. FRONT: Press the FRONT button to defrost the windshield by directing airﬂow toward the windshield and outboard outlets (for the side windows).
Page 146: Passenger Temperature Control
Passenger Temperature Control If your vehicle has the optional separate passenger’s temperature control, then the driver and the right front passenger can select separate temperature settings. This feature allows the front passenger to select a temperature that is 5° F (3° C) warmer or cooler than the driver’s selected temperature.
Page 147: Outlet Adjustment
Outlet Adjustment Use the thumbwheel located in the middle of the front outlets to change the direction of the airﬂow and to open and close the outlets. Use the thumbwheel located between the rear passenger outlets to open and close the outlets. Adjust the direction of the airﬂow from side to side with the levers in the center...
Page 148: Passenger Compartment Air Filter
Passenger Compartment Air Filter Passenger compartment air, both outside air and recirculated air, is routed through a passenger compartment ﬁlter, which is part of a three piece ﬁlter system. The ﬁlter removes certain particles from the air, including pollen and dust particles. Reductions in airﬂow, which may occur more quickly in dusty areas, indicate that the ﬁlter needs to be replaced early.
Page 149: Climate Controls Personalization
Climate Controls Personalization If your vehicle is equipped with this feature, up to two drivers are able to store and recall climate control settings for the temperature, the fan speed and the direction of the airﬂow. Memory buttons 1 and 2 are located on the driver’s door panel and correspond to the numbers 1 or 2 found on the back of each remote keyless entry transmitter.
Page 150: Warning Lights, Gages And Indicators
Warning Lights, Gages and Indicators This part describes the warning lights and gages that may be on your vehicle. The pictures will help you locate them. Warning lights and gages can signal that something is wrong before it becomes serious enough to cause an expensive repair or replacement.
Page 151: Instrument Panel Cluster
Instrument Panel Cluster Your vehicle is equipped with one of the following instrument panel clusters. Your instrument panel cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. It includes indicator warning lights and gages that are explained on the following pages.
Page 152 Cluster with Driver Information Center (DIC) (United States version shown, Canada similar) 3-34...
Page 153: Speedometer And Odometer
Speedometer and Odometer Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven, in either miles (used in the United States) or kilometers (used in Canada). Your vehicle has a tamper-resistant odometer.
Page 154: Safety Belt Reminder Light
Safety Belt Reminder Light When the key is turned to RUN, a chime will come on for several seconds to remind people to fasten their safety belts, unless the driver’s safety belt is already buckled. The safety belt light will also come on and stay on for several seconds, then it will ﬂash for...
Page 155: Battery Warning Light
CAUTION: If the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your vehicle, it means the air bag system may not be working properly. The air bags in your vehicle may not inﬂate in a crash, or they could even inﬂate without a crash. To help avoid injury to yourself or others, have your vehicle serviced right away if the air bag readiness light stays on after you start your...
Page 156 Brake System Warning Light Your vehicle’s hydraulic brake system is divided into two parts. If one part isn’t working, the other part can still work and stop you. For good braking, though, you need both parts working well. If the warning light comes on, there is a brake problem. Have your brake system inspected right away.
Page 157: Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light With the anti-lock brake system, the light(s) will come on when your engine is started and may stay on for several seconds. That’s normal. If the light stays on and the chime sounds, turn the ignition to OFF.
Page 158: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
The traction control system warning light may come on for the following reasons: • If you turn the system off by pressing the button located on the end of the shift lever, the warning light will come on and stay on. To turn the system back on, press the button again.
Page 159 Malfunction Indicator Lamp Service Engine Soon Light Your vehicle is equipped with a computer which monitors operation of the fuel, ignition and emission control systems. This system is called OBD II (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.
Page 160: If The Light Is Flashing
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 161 Have you recently changed brands of fuel? If so, be sure to fuel your vehicle with quality fuel. See Gasoline Octane on page 5-4. 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 162: Maintenance Schedule
Oil Pressure Light This light tells you if there could be a problem with your vehicle’s engine oil pressure. The oil pressure light will come on brieﬂy when you turn your key to RUN. It goes off once you turn the key to START.
Page 163: Security Light
Security Light United States Your vehicle is equipped with a content theft-deterrent alarm system. With this system, the SECURITY light will ﬂash as you open the door if your ignition is off. For more information see Content Theft-Deterrent on page 2-19. Cruise Control Light The CRUISE light comes on when you set the...
Page 164: Fuel Gage
Fuel Gage United States The fuel gage shows about how much fuel is in your tank. It works only when the ignition is on. When the indicator moves to the edge of the low fuel warning band, the low fuel warning light will come on and a chime will sound.
Page 165: Driver Information Center (Dic)
Driver Information Center (DIC) Your vehicle may be equipped with a Driver Information Center (DIC). The DIC will display information about how your vehicle is functioning, as well as warning messages if a system problem is detected. The following buttons are on the DIC control panel located to the left of the steering column:...
Page 166: Odo/Trip (Odometer/Trip)
ODO/TRIP (Odometer/Trip) When this button is pressed, the display will show the total mileage, and TRIP 1 or TRIP 2 miles. TRIP 1 and TRIP 2 will display the miles traveled since the last reset. To reset the trip odometer, press the ODO/TRIP button until the trip miles are shown in the DIC display, then press the RESET button.
Page 167 Tire Pressure: Press the GAGE INFO button until TIRE PRESSURE appears in the display. TIRE PRESSURE NORMAL is displayed when the Check Tire Pressure System believes your vehicle’s tire pressures are normal. If a potential tire pressure problem is detected, the display will show TIRE PRESSURE LOW.
Page 168: Service
DIC Warnings and Messages Other warning messages may appear in the DIC display. For Canadian drivers, in addition to the DIC message your DIC will display EXP with a number after it which reﬂects the following messages: (Export ID) Warning Message DOOR AJAR TRUNK AJAR WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID LOW...
Page 169: Dic Vehicle Personalization
When the STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE message is on, you should continue to steer in the direction you want to go. The system is designed to help you in bad weather or other difficult driving situations by making the most of whatever road conditions will permit. If the STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE message comes on, you will know that something has caused your vehicle to start to spin, so you should consider slowing down.
Page 170 MEMORY button. 3. Press and hold the ENG/MET button for ﬁve seconds. WELCOME TO BUICK OPTION FEATURE will appear in the display. The next display will be your driver number and the message ARMREST BUTTON CHANGES DRIVER #.
Page 171: Outside Curb View Assist Mirror
4. Scroll through the following messages and feature options: • PARALLEL PARK – OFF/ON • AUTO DOOR LOCKS – OFF/ON • UNLOCK IN PARK – OFF/ON • WHICH DOORS – ALL/DRIVER • DELAYED LOCKING – OFF/ON • LOCK FEEDBACK – OFF/ON •...
Page 172: Delayed Locking
Programmable Automatic Door Locks The automatic door lock modes, when shifting in and out of PARK (P), can be changed through the DIC. You can change these modes using different selections from the following DIC displays: • AUTO DOOR LOCKS – OFF/ON •...
Page 173: Security Feedback
Security Feedback By choosing different combinations of these selections, you can choose the type of transmitter activated feedback you receive when locking and unlocking your vehicle with your transmitter. Each time you make a selection by pressing the ENG/MET button, press the RESET button to record your choice.
Page 174: Memory Seat Recall
Perimeter Lighting When the unlock button on the transmitter is pressed, the DRL lamps (high-beams at reduced intensity), parking lamps and back-up lamps will turn on, if it is dark enough according to the Twilight Sentinel You can control activation of this feature by choosing OFF or ON when the PERIMETER LIGHTS choice is displayed on the DIC.
Page 175: Audio System(S)
Window Lock Out The number of passenger windows locked out by the WINDOW LOCK button can be programmed through the DIC. If you choose ALL PASS, all three passenger window switches will be inactive when the WINDOW LOCK button is enabled. If you choose REAR, only the two rear passenger window switches will be locked out when the WINDOW LOCK button is enabled.
Page 176: Setting The Time
Setting the Time Press the HRS knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob until the correct hour appears on the display. Press the MIN knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob until the correct minute appears on the display. Return these knobs to their stored positions when you are not using them.
Page 177: Finding A Station
To change the default on the display, station or time, press this button until you see the display you want, then hold the button until the display ﬂashes. The selected display will now be the default. Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, and AM.
Page 178: Setting Preset Stations
Setting Preset Stations The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM-FM to select FM1, FM2, or AM. 3.
Page 179: Playing A Cassette Tape
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) BAL (Balance): Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the left or the 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 toward the front or the rear speakers.
Page 180 (Reverse): Press this pushbutton to reverse quickly within a tape. The radio will play while the tape reverses. Press the pushbutton again to return to playing speed. (Forward): Press this pushbutton to advance quickly within a tape. The radio will play while the tape advances.
Page 181: Radio With Cassette And Cd
Cassette Tape Messages E (Error): If this message and a number appears on the display, it could be for one of the following reasons: • E10: The tape is tight and the player cannot turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil.
Page 182 To change the default on the display, station or time, press this button until you see the display you want, then hold this button until the display ﬂashes. The select display will now be the default. Finding a Station AM-FM: Press this button to switch between FM1, FM2, and AM.
Page 183: Setting The Tone (Bass/Treble)
Setting Preset Stations The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to 18 stations (six FM1, six FM2, and six AM) by performing the following steps: 1. Turn the radio on. 2. Press AM-FM to select FM1, FM2, or AM. 3.
Page 184: Adjusting The Speakers (Balance/Fade)
Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) BAL (Balance): Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the knob to move the sound toward the left or the 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 toward the front or the rear speakers.
Page 185 (Reverse): Press this pushbutton to reverse quickly within the tape. The radio will play while the tape reverses. Press the pushbutton again to return to playing speed. (Forward): Press this pushbutton to advance quickly within the tape. The radio will play while the tape advances.
Page 186: Cassette Tape Messages
Cassette Tape Messages E (Error): If this message and a number appears on the display, it could be for one of the following reasons: • E10: The tape is tight and the player cannot turn the tape hubs. Remove the tape. Hold the tape with the open end down and try to turn the right hub counterclockwise with a pencil.
Page 187 If playing a CD-R the sound quality may be reduced due to CD-R quality, the method of recording, the quality of the music that has been recorded, and the way the CD-R has been handled. You may experience an increase in skipping, difficulty in ﬁnding tracks, and/or difficulty in loading and ejecting.
Page 188: Cd Messages
SOURCE: Press this button to play a cassette tape or a CD when listening to the radio. TAPE SIDE and an arrow will appear on the display. If this button is pressed again, the system will go to CD play; CD PLAY will appear on the display.
Page 189: Trunk-Mounted Cd Changer
Trunk-Mounted CD Changer With the optional CD changer, you can play up to 12 CDs continuously. Normal size CDs may be played using the trays supplied in the magazine. The small CDs (8 cm) can be played only with specially designed trays.
Page 190 Once you have loaded the CDs in the magazine, slide open the door of the CD changer. Push the magazine into the changer in the direction of the arrow marked on top of the magazine. 3-72 Close the door by sliding it all the way to the left. If the door is left partially open, the changer will not operate and an error will occur.
Page 191 All of the CD functions are controlled by the radio buttons except for ejecting the magazine. Whenever a CD magazine with CDs is loaded in the changer, CHNGR will appear on the display. If the CD changer is checking the magazine for CDs, CHNGR will ﬂash on the display until the changer is ready to play.
Page 192: Cd Changer Errors
AM-FM: Press this button to listen to the radio when a CD is playing. The inactive CD(s) will remain safely inside the radio for future listening. SOURCE: Press this button to play a CD when listening to the radio. You can press this button to switch between a cassette tape, CD, or the CD changer if all three are loaded.
Page 193: Personal Choice Radio Controls
Personal Choice Radio Controls If your vehicle has this feature it will enable two drivers to store and recall personal settings for radio presets, last tuned station, volume, tone, and audio source (radio, cassette, or CD). The memory buttons 1 and 2 for this feature are located on the driver’s door panel and correspond to the numbers 1 and 2 found on the back of each remote keyless entry transmitter.
Page 194 1. Write down any three or four-digit number from 000 to 1999 and keep it in a safe place separate from the vehicle. 2. Turn the ignition on. 3. Turn the radio off. 4. Press the 1 and 4 pushbuttons at the same time. Hold them down until --- shows on the display.
Page 195: Disabling The Theft-Deterrent Feature
Disabling the Theft-Deterrent Feature Enter your secret code as follows; pause no more than 15 seconds between steps: 1. Turn the ignition on. 2. Turn the radio off. 3. Press the 1 and 4 pushbuttons at the same time. Hold them down until SEC appears on the display. 4.
Page 196: Understanding Radio Reception
Audio Steering Wheel Controls If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel. (Volume): Press the up or the down arrow to increase or to decrease volume. SEEK : Press the up or the down arrow to seek to the next station or to the previous station.
Page 197: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player
Care of Your Cassette Tape Player A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes, or a damaged mechanism. Cassette tapes should be stored in their cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight, and extreme heat. If they are not, they may not operate properly or may cause failure of the tape player.
Page 198: Care Of Your Cds
Care of Your CDs Handle CDs carefully. Store them in their original cases or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight and dust. If the surface of a CD is soiled, dampen a clean, soft cloth in a mild, neutral detergent solution and clean it, wiping from the center to the edge.
Page 199: Driving Your Vehicle
Section 4 Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle ...4-2 Defensive Driving ...4-2 Drunken Driving ...4-3 Control of a Vehicle ...4-6 Braking ...4-6 Traction Control System (TCS) ...4-9 Steering ...4-11 Off-Road Recovery ...4-13 Passing ...4-14 Loss of Control ...4-15 Driving at Night ...4-17 Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads ...4-18 City Driving ...4-21 Driving Your Vehicle...
Page 200: Your Driving, The Road, And Your Vehicle
Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle Defensive Driving The best advice anyone can give about driving is: Drive defensively. Please start with a very important safety device in your vehicle: Buckle up. See Safety Belts: They Are for Everyone on page 1-6. Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.”...
Page 201: Drunken Driving
Drunken Driving Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is a national tragedy. It is 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: •...
Page 202 According to the American Medical Association, a 180 lb (82 kg) person who drinks three 12 ounce (355 ml) bottles of beer in an hour will end up with a BAC of about 0.06 percent. The person would reach the same BAC by drinking three 4 ounce (120 ml) glasses of wine or three mixed drinks if each had 1-1/2 ounces (45 ml) of liquors like whiskey, gin or vodka.
Page 203 But the ability to drive is affected well below a BAC of 0.10 percent. Research shows that the driving skills of many people are impaired at a BAC approaching 0.05 percent, and that the effects are worse at night. All drivers are impaired at BAC levels above 0.05 percent.
Page 204: 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 are driving on snow or ice, it is easy to ask more of those control systems than the tires and road can provide.
Page 205: Anti-Lock Brake System (Abs)
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 206 Let us say the road is wet and you are driving safely. Suddenly, an animal jumps out in front of you. You slam on the brakes and continue braking. Here is 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 207: Traction Control System (Tcs)
Remember: Anti-lock does not 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 will not have time to apply your brakes if that vehicle suddenly slows or stops.
Page 208 This light should come on brieﬂy when you start the engine. If it stays on or comes on while you are driving, there is a problem with your traction control system. See Traction Control System (TCS) Warning Light on page 3-39. When this warning light is on, the system will not limit wheel spin.
Page 209: Steering
Steering Power Steering If you lose power steering assist because the engine stops or the system is not functioning, you can steer but it will take much more effort. Magnetic Speed Variable Assist Steering Your vehicle may be equipped with this steering system that continually adjusts the effort you feel when steering at all vehicle speeds.
Page 210: Steering In Emergencies
® If you have Stabilitrak , you may see the STABILITY SYSTEM ACTIVE message on the Driver Information Center. See “Stability System Active Message” under DIC Warnings and Messages on page 3-50. Speed limit signs near curves warn that you should adjust your speed.
Page 211: 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 212: 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 213: 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 214 If you have the traction control system, remember: It helps avoid only the acceleration skid. If you do not have traction control, or if the system is off, then an acceleration skid is also best handled by easing your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Page 215: Driving At Night
Driving at Night Night driving is more dangerous than day driving. One reason is that some drivers are likely to be impaired — by alcohol or drugs, with night vision problems, or by fatigue. Here are some tips on night driving. •...
Page 216: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads
You can be temporarily blinded by approaching headlamps. It can take a second or two, or even several seconds, for your eyes to readjust to the dark. When you are faced with severe glare (as from a driver who does not lower the high beams, or a vehicle with misaimed headlamps), slow down a little.
Page 217 The heavier the rain, the harder it is to see. Even if your windshield wiper blades are in good shape, a heavy rain can make it harder to see road signs and traffic signals, pavement markings, the edge of the road and even people walking.
Page 218: Driving Through Flowing Water
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 are going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, it has little or no contact with the road.
Page 219: City Driving
City Driving One of the biggest problems with city streets is the amount of traffic on them. You will 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: •...
Page 220: 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 at the same speed most of the other drivers are driving.
Page 221: Before Leaving On A Long Trip
The exit ramp can be curved, sometimes quite sharply. The exit speed is usually posted. Reduce your speed according to your speedometer, not to your sense of motion. After driving for any distance at higher speeds, you may tend to think you are going slower than you actually are.
Page 222: 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 223 If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you are planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make your trips safer and more enjoyable. • Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all ﬂuid levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and transaxle.
Page 224: 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. 4-26 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 225: Driving On Snow Or Ice
Driving on Snow or Ice Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the road probably have good traction. However, if there is snow or ice between your tires and the road, you can have a very slippery situation. You will have a lot less traction or “grip”...
Page 226: If You Are Caught In A Blizzard
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 will want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement. See Braking on page 4-6. •...
Page 227 • 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. You can run the engine to keep warm, but be careful.
Page 228: If You Are Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice Or Snow
Then, shut the engine off and close the window almost all the way to preserve the heat. Start the engine again and repeat this only when you feel really uncomfortable from the cold. But do it as little as possible. Preserve the fuel as long as you can. To help keep warm, you can get out of the vehicle and do some fairly vigorous exercises every half hour or so until help comes.
Page 229: Towing
Rocking Your Vehicle To Get It Out First, turn your steering wheel left and right. That will clear the area around your front wheels. If your vehicle has traction control, you should turn the system off. See Traction Control System (TCS) on page 4-9. Then shift back and forth between REVERSE (R) and a forward gear, spinning the wheels as little as possible.
Page 230: Dolly Towing
Here are some important things to consider before you do recreational vehicle towing: • What is the towing capacity of the towing vehicle? Be sure you read the tow vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. • How far will you tow? Some vehicles have restrictions on how far and how long they can tow.
Page 231: Loading Your Vehicle
Loading Your Vehicle It is very important to know how much weight your vehicle can carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight and includes the weight of all occupants, cargo and all nonfactory-installed options. Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it may properly carry, the Tire and Loading Information label and the Certiﬁcation label.
Page 232 Example 2 A. Vehicle Capacity Weight The Tire and Loading Information label shows the seating capacity and the total weight your vehicle can properly carry. This weight is called the vehicle capacity weight. If your vehicle has the Tire and Loading Information label, Example 1, the label is attached to the center pillar, near the driver’s door latch.
Page 233: Loading Your Vehicle
4. The resulting ﬁgure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be ﬁve 150 lb. passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs.
Page 234 Example 2 Loading Your Vehicle Item Description Vehicle Capacity Weight for Example 2 Subtract Occupant Weight 150 lbs (68 kg) Available Cargo Weight 4-36 Total Item Vehicle Capacity Weight 1,000 lbs (453 kg) for Example 3 Subtract Occupant Weight 750 lbs (340 kg) 200 lbs (91 kg) 250 lbs (113 kg) Available Cargo Weight...
Page 235 Certiﬁcation Label The Certiﬁcation label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door, 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. Never exceed the GVWR for your vehicle, or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle.
Page 236: Automatic Level Control
If you put things inside your vehicle — like suitcases, tools, packages, or anything else — they will go as fast as the vehicle goes. If you have to stop or turn quickly, or if there is a crash, they will keep going. CAUTION: Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or...
Page 237: If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
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 238: Weight Of The Trailer
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Buick Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33136 Detroit, MI 48232-5136 In Canada, write to:...
Page 239: Total Weight On Your Vehicle's Tires
If you are using a weight-carrying hitch, the trailer tongue (A) should weigh 10 to 15 percent of the total loaded trailer weight (B). After you have loaded your trailer, weigh the trailer and then the tongue, separately, to see if the weights are proper.
Page 240: Driving With A Trailer
Safety Chains You should always attach chains between your vehicle and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road if it becomes separated from the hitch. Instructions about safety chains may be provided by the hitch manufacturer or by the trailer manufacturer.
Page 241: Following Distance
Following Distance Stay at least twice as far behind the vehicle ahead as you would when driving your vehicle without a trailer. This can help you avoid situations that require heavy braking and sudden turns. Passing You will need more passing distance up ahead when you are towing a trailer.
Page 242: Parking On Hills
Your vehicle has bulb warning lights. When you plug a trailer lighting system into your vehicle’s lighting system, its bulb warning lights may not let you know if one of your lamps goes out. So, when you have a trailer lighting system plugged in, be sure to check your vehicle and trailer lamps from time to time to be sure they are all working.
Page 243: Maintenance When Trailer Towing
When You Are Ready to Leave After Parking on a Hill 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down while you: • Start your engine. • Shift into a gear. • Release the parking brake. 2. Let up on the brake pedal. 3.
Page 244 NOTES 4-46...
Page 245: Service And Appearance Care
Section 5 Service ...5-3 Doing Your Own Service Work ...5-3 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle ...5-4 Fuel ...5-4 Gasoline Octane ...5-4 Gasoline Speciﬁcations ...5-5 California Fuel ...5-5 Additives ...5-5 Fuels in Foreign Countries ...5-6 Filling Your Tank ...5-6 Filling a Portable Fuel Container ...5-9 Checking Things Under the Hood ...5-10 Hood Release ...5-10...
Page 246 Section 5 Tires ...5-62 Inﬂation - Tire Pressure ...5-69 Check Tire Pressure System ...5-70 Tire Inspection and Rotation ...5-72 When It Is Time for New Tires ...5-73 Buying New Tires ...5-74 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ...5-75 Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance ...5-76 Wheel Replacement ...5-76 Tire Chains ...5-78 If a Tire Goes Flat ...5-79...
Page 247: Service
Service Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to be happy with it. We hope you will go to your dealer for all your service needs. You will get genuine GM parts and GM-trained and supported service people. We hope you will want to keep your GM vehicle all GM.
Page 248: Adding Equipment To The Outside Of Your Vehicle
CAUTION: (Continued) • Be sure you have sufficient knowledge, experience, the proper replacement parts and tools before you attempt any vehicle maintenance task. • Be sure to use the proper nuts, bolts and other fasteners. “English” and “metric” fasteners can be easily confused. If you use the wrong fasteners, parts can later break or fall off.
Page 249: Gasoline Speciﬁcations
Reﬁll your tank with premium fuel as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might damage your engine. If you are using 91 octane or higher-octane fuel and you hear heavy knocking, your engine needs service. Gasoline Speciﬁcations It is recommended that gasoline meet speciﬁcations which were developed by automobile manufacturers around the world and contained in the World-Wide Fuel Charter which is available from the Alliance...
Page 250: Fuels In Foreign Countries
General Motors recommends that you buy gasolines that are advertised to help keep fuel injectors and intake valves clean. If your vehicle experiences problems due to dirty injectors or valves, try a different brand of gasoline. Gasolines containing oxygenates, such as ethers and ethanol, and reformulated gasolines may be available in your area to contribute to clean air.
Page 251 CAUTION: (Continued) Keep sparks, ﬂames and smoking materials away from fuel. Do not leave the fuel pump unattended when refueling your vehicle — this is against the law in some places. Keep children away from the fuel pump; never let children pump fuel.
Page 252 While refueling, hang the tethered fuel cap from the hook on the fuel door. To remove the fuel cap, turn it slowly to the left (counterclockwise). The fuel cap has a spring in it; if you let the cap go too soon, it will spring back to the right.
Page 253: Filling A Portable Fuel Container
When you put the fuel cap back on, turn it to the right (clockwise) until you hear a clicking sound. Make sure you fully install the cap. The diagnostic system can determine if the fuel cap has been left off or improperly installed.
Page 254: Checking Things Under The Hood
Checking Things Under the Hood CAUTION: An electric fan under the hood can start up and injure you even when the engine is not running. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan. CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a ﬁre.
Page 255 2. Then go to the front of the vehicle and locate the secondary hood release lever under the front edge of the grille. 3. Lift up on this lever as you lift up the hood. Before closing the hood, be sure all the ﬁller caps are on properly.
Page 256: Engine Compartment Overview
Engine Compartment Overview When you open the hood on the 3800 (L36) engine (3800 Supercharged (L67) engine similar), here’s what you will see: 5-12...
Page 257 A. Battery. See Battery on page 5-43. B. Underhood Fuse Block. See “Underhood Fuse Block” under Fuses and Circuit Breakers on page 5-99. C. Radiator Pressure Cap. See Radiator Pressure Cap on page 5-27. D. Engine Oil Dipstick. See “Checking Engine Oil” under Engine Oil on page 5-14.
Page 258: Engine Oil
Engine Oil If the DIC message, ENGINE OIL LOW — CHECK LEVEL appears on the instrument cluster, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away. For more information, see Driver Information Center (DIC) on page 3-47. You should check your engine oil level regularly;...
Page 259: When To Add Engine Oil
When to Add Engine Oil If the oil is at or below the cross-hatched area at the tip of the dipstick, then you will need to add at least one quart of oil. But you must use the right kind. This section explains what kind of oil to use.
Page 260 5-16 • SAE 5W-30 As shown in the viscosity chart, SAE 5W-30 is best for your vehicle. However, if it is going to be 0°F (–18°C) or above and SAE 5W-30 is not available, you may use SAE 10W-30. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness.
Page 261: Engine Oil Additives
Notice: Use only engine oil identiﬁed as meeting GM Standard GM6094M and showing the American Petroleum Institute Certiﬁed For Gasoline Engines starburst symbol. Failure to use the recommended oil can result in engine damage not covered by your warranty. ® GM Goodwrench oil meets all the requirements for your vehicle.
Page 262: When To Change Engine Oil
When to Change Engine Oil (Vehicles With the GM Oil Life System) If so equipped, your vehicle has a computer system that lets you know when to change the engine oil and ﬁlter. This is based on engine revolutions and engine temperature, and not on mileage.
Page 263: What To Do With Used Oil
What to Do with Used Oil Used engine oil contains certain elements that may be unhealthy for your skin and could even cause cancer. Do not let used oil stay on your skin for very long. Clean your skin and nails with soap and water, or a good hand cleaner.
Page 264: How To Check And Add Oil
How to Check and Add Oil Park the vehicle on a level surface. Check oil only when the engine is cold. Allow the engine to cool two to three hours after running. CAUTION: If you remove the supercharger oil ﬁll plug while the engine is hot, pressure may cause hot oil to blow out of the oil ﬁll hole.
Page 265: How To Inspect The Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter To inspect the air cleaner/ﬁlter remove the ﬁlter from the vehicle and lightly shake the ﬁlter to release loose dust and dirt. If the ﬁlter remains caked with dirt, a new ﬁlter is required. To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter, do the following: 1.
Page 266 3. Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/ﬁlter. 4. Reattach the air intake hose. 5. Reinstall the air cleaner housing cover. 5-22 CAUTION: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/ﬁlter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air, it helps to stop ﬂame if the engine backﬁres.
Page 267: Automatic Transaxle Fluid
Automatic Transaxle Fluid When to Check and Change A good time to check your automatic transaxle ﬂuid level is when the engine oil is changed. Change both the ﬂuid and ﬁlter every 50,000 miles (83 000 km) if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: •...
Page 268 Checking the Fluid Level Prepare your vehicle as follows: • Park your vehicle on a level place. Keep the engine running. • With the parking brake applied, place the shift lever in PARK (P). • With your foot on the brake pedal, move the shift lever through each gear range, pausing for about three seconds in each range.
Page 269: Engine Coolant
How to Add Fluid Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine what kind of transaxle ﬂuid to use. See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-25. If the ﬂuid level is low, add only enough of the proper ﬂuid to bring the level into the cross-hatched area on the dipstick.
Page 270: What To Use
What to Use Use a mixture of one-half clean, drinkable water and ® one-half DEX-COOL coolant which will not damage aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture you do not need to add anything else. CAUTION: Adding only plain water to your cooling system can be dangerous.
Page 271: Radiator Pressure Cap
The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your engine is cold, the coolant level should be at FULL COLD or a little higher. When your engine is warm, the level should be up to FULL HOT or a little higher. Adding Coolant If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX-COOL coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be...
Page 272: Engine Overheating
Engine Overheating You will ﬁnd a warning light about a hot engine, as well as a coolant temperature gage, on your instrument panel. If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine 5-28 CAUTION: Steam from an overheated engine can burn you badly, even if you just open the hood. Stay away from the engine if you see or hear steam coming from it.
Page 273: If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you get an engine 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.
Page 274: Cooling System
Cooling System When you decide it is safe to lift the hood, here is what you will see: A. Radiator Pressure Cap B. Electric Engine Cooling Fans C. Coolant Recovery Tank 5-30 CAUTION: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you.
Page 275 See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. The coolant level should be at or above the FULL COLD mark. If it is not, you may have a leak at the pressure cap or in the radiator hoses, heater hoses, radiator, water pump or somewhere else in the cooling system.
Page 276 How to Add Coolant to the Coolant Recovery Tank If you have not found a problem yet, but the coolant level is not at or above the FULL COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, drinkable water and ® DEX-COOL engine coolant at the coolant recovery tank.
Page 277 When the coolant in the coolant recovery tank is at or above the FULL COLD mark, start your vehicle. If the overheat warning continues, there is one more thing you can try. You can add the proper coolant mixture directly to the radiator, but be sure the cooling system is cool before you do it.
Page 278: How To Add Coolant To The Radiator
How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 1. You can remove the radiator pressure cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap and upper radiator hose, is no longer hot. Turn the pressure cap slowly counterclockwise until it ﬁrst stops. Do not press down while turning the pressure cap.
Page 279 3.1. Clean the area around the engine oil ﬁll tube and cap before removing. Twist the oil ﬁll tube, with cap attached, counterclockwise and remove it. 3.2. If you have the supercharged engine, remove the nut in the center of the cover shield.
Page 280 5. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX-COOL mixture, up to the base of the ﬁller neck. See Engine Coolant on page 5-25 for more information about the proper coolant mixture. If you see a stream of coolant coming from an air bleed valve, close the valve.
Page 281 10. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. 11. By this time, the coolant level inside the radiator ﬁller neck may be lower. If the level is lower, add more of the proper DEX-COOL through the ﬁller neck until the level reaches the base of the ﬁller neck.
Page 282: Power Steering Fluid
Power Steering Fluid The power steering ﬂuid reservoir is located below the generator and behind the accessory drive belt in the rear of the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. 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.
Page 283: Windshield Washer Fluid
Windshield Washer Fluid What to Use When you need windshield washer ﬂuid, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature may fall below freezing, use a ﬂuid that has sufficient protection against freezing.
Page 284: Brakes
Brakes Brake Fluid Your master cylinder reservoir is ﬁlled with DOT-3 brake ﬂuid. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for the location of the reservoir. 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.
Page 285 What to Add When you do need brake ﬂuid, use only DOT-3 brake ﬂuid. Refer to Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-25. Use new brake ﬂuid from a sealed container only. Always clean the brake ﬂuid reservoir cap and the area around the cap before removing it.
Page 286: Brake Wear
Brake Wear Your vehicle has four-wheel disc brakes. Disc brake pads have built-in wear indicators that make a high-pitched warning sound when the brake pads are worn and new pads are needed. The sound may come and go or be heard all the time your vehicle is moving (except when you are pushing on the brake pedal ﬁrmly).
Page 287: Battery
Replacing Brake System Parts The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many parts have to be of top quality and work well together if the vehicle is to have really good braking. Your vehicle was designed and tested with top-quality GM brake parts. When you replace parts of your braking system —...
Page 288: 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. Be sure to follow the steps below to do it safely. CAUTION: Batteries can hurt you. They can be dangerous because: •...
Page 289 4. Open the hoods and locate the batteries. Find the positive (+) and negative (–) terminal locations on each vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. CAUTION: An electric fan can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you.
Page 290 5. Check that the jumper cables do not 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 (+) will go to positive (+) or to a remote positive (+) terminal if the vehicle has one.
Page 291 Do not let the other end touch anything until the next step. The other end of the negative ( ) cable does not go to the dead battery. It goes to a heavy, unpainted metal engine part or to a remote negative ( ) terminal on the vehicle with the dead battery.
Page 292 Jumper Cable Removal A. Heavy, Unpainted Metal Engine Part or Remote Negative ( ) Terminal B. Good Battery or Remote Positive (+) or Remote Negative ( ) Terminals C. Dead Battery or Remote Positive (+) Terminal 5-48 To disconnect the jumper cables from both vehicles, do the following: 1.
Page 293: Headlamp Aiming
Headlamp Aiming The headlamp aiming device is under the hood, directly behind the headlamps. Your vehicle has a headlamp system equipped with horizontal and vertical aim indicators. The aim has been pre-set at the factory and should need no further adjustment.
Page 294 To check the aim, the vehicle should be properly prepared as follows: • The vehicle must have all four tires on a perfectly level surface. • If necessary, pads may be used on an uneven surface. • The vehicle should not have any snow, ice or mud attached to it.
Page 295: Bulb Replacement
Bulb Replacement For the type of bulb to use, see Replacement Bulbs on page 5-60. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer. Halogen Bulbs CAUTION: Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas inside and can burst if you drop or scratch the bulb. You or others could be injured.
Page 296 1. Remove the thumb screws by turning them 2. Pull the headlamp assembly away from the vehicle. counterclockwise. 5-52...
Page 297 3. Remove the bulb socket by turning it one-quarter turn counterclockwise, while pressing it ﬁrmly. Then pull it out. You can use a tool to remove the bulb socket if you are unable to do it by hand. 4. Remove the wire connector from the bulb by lifting the lock tab and pulling it away from the plastic base.
Page 298: Front Turn Signal Lamps
Front Turn Signal Lamps 1. Once the headlamp assembly has been removed, reach down from the top of the vehicle, and while pressing the lock tab on the socket, turn the socket one-quarter turn counterclockwise and pull it out. 2. Remove the old bulb by pulling it straight out of the socket.
Page 299 1. There are four studs located at the inside edge of the trunk lid. Remove the protective vinyl caps from the studs. 2. Remove the nuts from the studs. 3. Remove the six fasteners along the top of the trunk lid (three on each side), holding the trunk trim in place.
Page 300 4. Pull the trunk trim back to expose the three 5. From inside the trunk compartment, remove the remaining nuts holding the taillamp assembly nuts from the studs. in place. Remove the protective vinyl caps from the studs. 5-56...
Page 301 6. Pull the taillamp assembly away from the trunk lid. The bulbs are located on the back side of the assembly. 7. Turn the bulb socket one-quarter turn counterclockwise and pull it out. You can use a tool to remove the bulb socket if you are unable to do it by hand.
Page 302: Rear Quarter Panel Turn Signal And Stoplamps
8. Once the socket has been removed, pull the bulb straight out to remove it from the socket. 9. Replace it with a new bulb. 10. Reverse Steps 1 through 8 to reinstall the taillamp assembly. 5-58 Rear Quarter Panel Turn Signal and Stoplamps 1.
Page 303 5. Beneath the trim panel are three nuts that secure 6. Pull the taillamp assembly away from the vehicle. the taillamp assembly. Remove the nuts only from the side you want to access. The turn signal and a stoplamp can now be accessed. 5-59...
Page 304: Replacement Bulbs
7. Remove the bulb socket assembly by turning the socket one-quarter turn counterclockwise and pulling it out. 8. Once the socket has been removed, pull the bulb straight out to remove it from the socket. 5-60 9. Replace it with a new bulb. 10.
Page 305: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Wiper Blade Check” under Part B: Owner Checks and Services on page 6-19 for more information. Replacement blades come in different types and are removed in different ways.
Page 306: Tires
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 GM Warranty booklet for details. For additional information refer to the tire manufacturer’s booklet included with your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual.
Page 307 (A) Tire Size: The tire size code is a combination of letters and numbers used to deﬁne a particular tire’s width, height, aspect ratio, construction type and service description. See the “Tire Size” illustration later in this section for more detail. (B) Tire Performance Criteria Speciﬁcation (TPC Spec): Original equipment tires designed to GM’s speciﬁc tire performance criteria have a...
Page 308 (E) Tire Ply Material: The type of cord and number of plies in the sidewall and under the tread. (F) Uniform Tire Quality Grading (UTQG): Tire manufacturers are required to grade tires based on three performance factors: treadwear, traction and temperature resistance.
Page 309 (A) Temporary Use Only: The compact spare tire or temporary use tire has a tread life of approximately 3,000 miles (5 000 km) and should not be driven at speeds over 65 mph (105 km/h). The compact spare tire is for emergency use when a regular road tire has lost air and gone ﬂat.
Page 310: Tire Size
Tire Size The following illustration shows an example of a typical passenger car tire size. (A) P-Metric Tire: The United States version of a metric tire sizing system. The letter “P” as the ﬁrst character in the tire size means a passenger vehicle tire engineered to standards set by the U.
Page 311: Tire Terminology And Deﬁnitions
Tire Terminology and Deﬁnitions Air Pressure: The amount of air inside the tire pressing outward on each square inch of the tire. Air pressure is expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) or kilopascal (kPa). Accessory Weight: This means the combined weight of optional accessories.
Page 312 Light Truck (LT-Metric) Tire: A tire used on light duty trucks and some multipurpose passenger vehicles. Load Index: An assigned number ranging from 1 to 279 that corresponds to the load carrying capacity of a tire. Maximum Inﬂation Pressure: The maximum air pressure to which a cold tire may be inﬂated.
Page 313: Inﬂation - Tire Pressure
Treadwear Indicators: Narrow bands, sometimes called “wear bars,” that show across the tread of a tire when only 2/32 inch of tread remains. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 5-73. UTQGS: Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standards, a tire information system that provides consumers with ratings for a tire’s traction, temperature and treadwear.
Page 314: Check Tire Pressure System
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). How to Check Use a good quality pocket-type gage to check tire pressure. You can’t tell if your tires are properly inﬂated simply by looking at them.
Page 315 The check tire pressure system detects differences in tire rotation speeds that are caused by changes in tire pressure. The system can alert you about a low tire — but it does not replace normal tire maintenance. See Tires on page 5-62. When the TIRE PRESSURE LOW message appears on the Driver Information Center, you should stop as soon as you can and check all your tires for damage.
Page 316: Tire Inspection And Rotation
Tire Inspection and Rotation Tires should be rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles (8 000 to 13 000 km). Any time you notice unusual wear rotate your tires as soon as possible and check wheel alignment. Also check for damaged tires or wheels. See When It Is Time for New Tires on page 5-73 and Wheel Replacement on page 5-76 for more information.
Page 317: When It Is Time For New Tires
Reset the check tire pressure system, if equipped. See Check Tire Pressure System on page 5-70. Make certain that all wheel nuts are properly tightened. See “Wheel Nut Torque” under Capacities and Speciﬁcations on page 5-108. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on a wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make wheel nuts become loose after a time.
Page 318: Buying New Tires
Buying New Tires To ﬁnd out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the tire and loading information label. For an example of this label and its location, see Loading Your Vehicle on page 4-33. 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 319: Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Uniform Tire Quality Grading Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A 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.
Page 320: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance
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 321: Used Replacement Wheels
Each new wheel should have the same load-carrying capacity, diameter, width, offset and be mounted the same way as the one it replaces. If you need to replace any of your wheels, wheel bolts or wheel nuts, replace them only with new GM original equipment parts.
Page 322: Tire Chains
Tire Chains CAUTION: If your vehicle has P235/55R17 size tires, don’t use tire chains, there’s not enough clearance. Tire chains used on a vehicle without the proper amount of clearance can cause damage to the brakes, suspension or other vehicle parts.
Page 323: If A Tire Goes Flat
If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blowout” while you’re driving, especially if you maintain your tires properly. If air goes out of a tire, it’s much more likely to leak out slowly. But if you should ever have a “blowout,” here are a few tips about what to expect and what to do: If a front tire fails, the ﬂat tire will create a drag that pulls the vehicle toward that side.
Page 324: Changing A Flat Tire
Changing a Flat Tire If a tire goes ﬂat, avoid further tire and wheel damage by driving slowly to a level place. Turn on your hazard warning ﬂashers. CAUTION: Changing a tire can cause an injury. The vehicle can slip off the jack and roll over you or other people.
Page 325: Removing The Spare Tire And Tools
Removing the Spare Tire and Tools The equipment you will need is in the trunk. Instructions for changing your tires are on the inside of the tire cover. You can rest the cover near you for easy reference while you change the tire. 1.
Page 326: Removing The Flat Tire And Installing The Spare Tire
Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the Spare Tire 1. If your vehicle is equipped with the 8 inch (20 cm) hubcap, use the wheel wrench to begin loosening the plastic wheel nut caps. Once you have loosened the plastic wheel nut caps with the wheel wrench, you can ﬁnish loosening them with your ﬁngers.
Page 327 CAUTION: Getting under a vehicle when it is jacked up is dangerous. If the vehicle slips off the jack you could be badly injured or killed. Never get under a vehicle when it is supported only by a jack. CAUTION: Raising your vehicle with the jack improperly positioned can damage the vehicle and even make the vehicle fall.
Page 328 7. Remove all the wheel nuts and take off the ﬂat tire. 8. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts become loose after a time.
Page 329 9. Install the compact spare tire on the wheel-mounting surface. 10. Then reinstall 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. 11. Lower the vehicle by turning the wheel wrench counterclockwise.
Page 330 12. Using the wheel wrench, tighten the wheel nuts ﬁrmly in a crisscross sequence. CAUTION: Incorrect wheel nuts or improperly tightened wheel nuts can cause the wheel to come loose and even come off. This could lead to an accident. Be sure to use the correct wheel nuts.
Page 331: Storing The Flat Tire And Tools
Storing the Flat Tire and Tools CAUTION: Storing a jack, a tire, or other equipment in the passenger compartment of the vehicle could cause injury. In a sudden stop or collision, loose equipment could strike someone. Store all these in the proper place. After you have put the compact spare tire on your vehicle, you will need to store the ﬂat tire in your trunk.
Page 332: Storing The Spare Tire And Tools
Storing the Spare Tire and Tools CAUTION: 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. Store the compact spare tire and tools as shown in the diagram.
Page 333: 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 kPa). After installing the compact spare on your vehicle, you should stop as soon as possible and make sure your spare tire is correctly inﬂated.
Page 334: Appearance Care
Appearance Care Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some are toxic. Others can burst into ﬂames if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle. Some are dangerous if you breathe their fumes in a closed space.
Page 335: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems
Here are some cleaning tips: • Always read the instructions on the cleaner label. • Clean up stains as soon as you can — before they set. • Carefully scrape off any excess stain. • Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a clean area often.
Page 336: Cleaning Vinyl
Cleaning Vinyl Use warm water and a clean cloth. • Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You may have to do this more than once. • Things like tar, asphalt and shoe polish will stain if you don’t get them off quickly. Use a clean cloth and vinyl cleaner.
Page 337: Care Of Safety Belts
Care of Safety Belts Keep belts clean and dry. CAUTION: Do not bleach or dye safety belts. If you do, it may severely weaken them. In a crash, they might not be able to provide adequate protection. Clean safety belts only with mild soap and lukewarm water.
Page 338: Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses
Cleaning Exterior Lamps/Lenses Use only lukewarm or cold water, a soft cloth and a car washing soap to clean exterior lamps and lenses. Follow instructions under “Washing Your Vehicle.” Finish Care Occasional waxing or mild polishing of your vehicle by hand may be necessary to remove residue from the paint ﬁnish.
Page 339: Cleaning Aluminum Or Chrome-Plated Wheels
Cleaning Aluminum or Chrome-Plated Wheels Your vehicle may be equipped with either aluminum or chrome-plated wheels. Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel. A wax may then be applied.
Page 340: Finish Damage
Finish Damage Any stone chips, fractures or deep scratches in the ﬁnish should be repaired right away. Bare metal will corrode quickly and may develop into major repair expense. Minor chips and scratches can be repaired with touch-up materials avaliable from your dealer. Larger areas of ﬁnish damage can be corrected in your dealer’s body and paint shop.
Page 341 Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials (cont’d) Description White Sidewall Tire Removes soil and black Cleaner marks from whitewalls. Cleans vinyl tops, Vinyl Cleaner upholstery and convertible tops. Removes dirt, grime, Glass Cleaner smoke and ﬁngerprints. Removes dirt and grime Chrome and Wire from chrome wheels and Wheel Cleaner wire wheel covers.
Page 342: Vehicle Identiﬁcation
Vehicle Identiﬁcation Vehicle Identiﬁcation Number (VIN) 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 343: Fuses And Circuit Breakers
Fuses and Circuit Breakers The wiring circuits in your vehicle are protected from short circuits by a combination of fuses and circuit breakers. This greatly reduces the chance of damage caused by electrical problems. Look at the silver-colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse.
Page 344: Main Instrument Panel Fuse Block
Main Instrument Panel Fuse Block Fuses Interior Lamps PDM Module HVAC Motor, HVAC Mix Motors 5-100 IGN SEN HVAC CR CONT CSTR/SBM Usage LP PK L Fuses Usage Auto Dimming Mirror, Driver HTS Seat, Rear Defog Relay, MEM Module, Cool LVL Sensor, Pass Heated Seat HVAC Flat Pk Mtrs, Electronic Level Control Sensor, Electronic Level...
Page 345: Auxiliary Instrument Panel Fuse Block
Fuses Usage Right Park/Sidemarker Lamp, Right ParK/Turn Lamp, Right Tail/Sign LP PK R Lamp, Right Tail/Stoplamp, Right Rear Sidemarker, Stop/Taillamp, Tail/Signal Lamp, License Lamp, RFA Run/Accessory Wiper Motor Blank Not Used WSW/RFA Wiper Switch, RFA, Rain Sense Auto Dimming Mirror, B/U LP Back-Up Lamps Auxiliary Instrument Panel Fuse Block...
Page 346: Underhood Fuse Block
Underhood Fuse Block There are additional fuses located in the engine compartment on the passenger’s side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on page 5-12 for more information on location. To check the fuses in this underhood fuse block, turn the knob counterclockwise and remove the cover.
Page 347 Fuses Usage Spare Spare Injectors #1-6 C-31 Right High Beam Spare Left High Beam Spare Right Low Beam Left Low Beam Stop Fuel Pump Relay (Wire in BEC) Run/Crank Powertrain Control Module Parking Lamps Hazard Flashers Spare Spare ABS #2 Relays Usage Ignition...
Page 348: Removing The Rear Seat Cushion
Removing the Rear Seat Cushion Notice: If, when removing or reinstalling the rear seat, you do not do it carefully, you could damage the fuse center. Avoid contact between the rear seat and the fuse center whenever you remove or reinstall the rear seat.
Page 349 1. Buckle the center passenger position safety belt, then route the safety belts through the proper slots in the seat cushion. Do not let the safety belts get twisted. 2. Slide the rear of the cushion up and under the seatback so the rear locating guides hook into the wire loops on the back frame.
Page 350: Rear Compartment Fuse Block
Rear Compartment Fuse Block Additional fuses are located in the fuse center under the rear seat. Relays Heated Backlite Retained Accessory Power (RAP) Trunk Release Electronic Level Control 5-106 Circuit Breakers Usage Usage Power Seat Electronic Level Control Sensor, Electronic Level Control Compressor Solenoid Fuses Usage...
Page 351 Fuses Usage Radio Driver Heated Seat Module Rear Door Module Trunk Release Spare Instrument Panel Ashtray Cigarette Lighter Fuses Usage Spare Spare Passenger Heated Seat Module Right Rear Cig Lighter Left Rear Cig Lighter RFA, Memory Seat Module, Driver Seat Switch 5-107...
Page 352: Capacities And Speciﬁcations
Capacities and Speciﬁcations The following approximate capacities are given in English and metric conversions. Please refer to Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-25 for more information. Application Air Conditioning Refrigerant R134a Automatic Transaxle Engine Cooling System Engine Oil with Filter Fuel Tank Wheel Nut Torque All capacities are approximate.
Page 353: Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts
Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts Replacement parts identiﬁed below by name, part number, or speciﬁcation can be obtained from your dealer. Part Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Engine Oil Filter Fuel Filter Passenger Compartment Air Filter Spark Plugs Windshield Wiper Blades Type Length ACDelco GM Part Number Part Number...
Page 354 NOTES 5-110...
Page 355 Section 6 Maintenance Schedule ...6-2 Introduction ...6-2 Maintenance Requirements ...6-2 Your Vehicle and the Environment ...6-2 How This Section is Organized ...6-3 Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services ...6-4 Using Your Maintenance Schedule ...6-4 Selecting the Right Schedule ...6-5 Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance ...6-7 Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance ...6-14 Part B: Owner Checks and Services ...6-19 At Each Fuel Fill ...6-19...
Page 356: Maintenance Schedule
Maintenance Schedule Introduction Important: Keep engine oil at the proper level and change as recommended. Have you purchased the GM Protection Plan? The Plan supplements your new vehicle warranties. See your Warranty and Owner Assistance booklet or your dealer for details. Maintenance Requirements Maintenance intervals, checks, inspections and recommended ﬂuids and lubricants as prescribed in this...
Page 357: How This Section Is Organized
How This Section is Organized This maintenance schedule is divided into ﬁve parts: “Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services” explains 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 GM dealer’s service department do these jobs.
Page 358: Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services
Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services In this part are scheduled maintenance services which are to be performed at the mileage intervals speciﬁed. Using Your Maintenance Schedule We at General Motors want to keep your vehicle in good working condition. But we do not know exactly how you will drive it.
Page 359: Selecting The Right Schedule
Selecting the Right Schedule First you’ll need to decide which of the two schedules is right for your vehicle. Here’s how to decide which schedule to follow: Short Trip/City Deﬁnition Follow the Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance if any one of these conditions is true for your vehicle: •...
Page 360: Long Trip/Highway Deﬁnition
Long Trip/Highway Deﬁnition Follow this scheduled maintenance only if none of the conditions from the Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance are true. Do not use this schedule if the vehicle is used for trailer towing, driven in a dusty area or used off paved roads. Use the Short Trip/City schedule for these conditions Driving a vehicle with a fully warmed engine under highway conditions will cause engine oil to break down...
Page 361: Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance
Short Trip/City Scheduled Maintenance The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be repeated after 100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals for the life of this vehicle. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be repeated at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km) for the life of this vehicle.
Page 362 3,000 Miles (5 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 6,000 Miles (10 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires.
Page 363 24,000 Miles (40 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on page 5-72 for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 364 39,000 Miles (65 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 42,000 Miles (70 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires.
Page 365 51,000 Miles (85 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) 54,000 Miles (90 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires.
Page 366 72,000 Miles (120 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 3 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on page 5-72 for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 367 For supercharged engines only: Check the supercharger oil level and add the proper supercharger oil as needed (or every 36 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). See Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants on page 6-25. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote †.) Rotate tires.
Page 368: Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance
Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles (166 000 km) should be repeated after 100,000 miles (166 000 km) at the same intervals for the life of this vehicle. The services shown at 150,000 miles (240 000 km) should be repeated at the same interval after 150,000 miles (240 000 km) for the life of this vehicle.
Page 369 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on page 5-72 for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 370 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Inspect engine air cleaner ﬁlter. See Engine Air Cleaner/Filter on page 5-20 for more information. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote †.) Replace passenger compartment air ﬁlter.
Page 371 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) Change engine oil and ﬁlter (or every 12 months, whichever occurs ﬁrst). An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See Tire Inspection and Rotation on page 5-72 for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 372 100,000 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 (32°C) or higher.
Page 373: Part B: Owner Checks And Services
Part B: Owner Checks and Services Listed in this part 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 D.
Page 374: 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. Look for any other loose or damaged safety belt system parts. If you see anything that might keep a safety belt system from doing its job, have it repaired.
Page 375: Starter Switch Check
Starter Switch Check CAUTION: When you are doing this inspection, the vehicle could move suddenly. If the vehicle moves, you or others could be injured. 1. Before you start, be sure you have enough room around the vehicle. 2. Firmly apply both the parking brake and the regular brake.
Page 376: Ignition Transaxle Lock Check
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). •...
Page 377: Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections
Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Listed in this part 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 do these jobs. Make sure any necessary repairs are completed at once.
Page 378: Fuel System Inspection
Fuel System Inspection Inspect the complete fuel system for damage or leaks. Engine Cooling System Inspection Inspect the hoses and have them replaced if they are cracked, swollen or deteriorated. Inspect all pipes, ﬁttings and clamps; replace as needed. Clean the outside of the radiator and air conditioning condenser.
Page 379: Part D: Recommended Fluids And Lubricants
Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Fluids and lubricants identiﬁed below by name, part number or speciﬁcation may be obtained from your dealer. Usage Fluid/Lubricant Engine oil which meets GM Standard GM6094M and displays the American Petroleum Institute Certiﬁed for Engine Oil Gasoline Engines starburst symbol.
Page 380: Part E: Maintenance Record
Part E: Maintenance Record After the scheduled services are performed, record the date, odometer reading and who performed the service and any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” on the following record pages. Also, you should retain all maintenance receipts. Maintenance Record Odometer Date...
Page 381 Maintenance Record (cont’d) Odometer Date Serviced By Maintenance Record Reading 6-27...
Page 382 Maintenance Record (cont’d) Odometer Date Serviced By Maintenance Record Reading 6-28...
Page 383: Customer Assistance Information
Section 7 Customer Assistance Information ...7-2 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ...7-2 Online Owner Center ...7-3 Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ...7-4 Customer Assistance Offices ...7-4 GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities ...7-5 Roadside Assistance Program ...7-6 Courtesy Transportation ...7-7 Vehicle Data Collection and Event Data Records ...7-9 Customer Assistance Information...
Page 384: Customer Assistance Information
Information Customer Satisfaction Procedure Your satisfaction and goodwill are important to your dealer and to Buick. Normally, any concerns with the sales transaction or the operation of your vehicle will be resolved by your dealer’s sales or service departments. Sometimes, however, despite the best intentions of all concerned, misunderstandings can occur.
Page 385: Online Owner Center
The BBB Auto Line Program is an out of court program administered by the Council of Better Business Bureaus to settle automotive disputes regarding vehicle repairs or the interpretation of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. Although you may be required to resort to this informal dispute resolution program prior to ﬁling a court action, use of the program is free of charge and your case will generally be heard within...
Page 386: Customer Assistance For Text Telephone (Tty) Users
To assist customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired and who use Text Telephones (TTYs), Buick has TTY equipment available at its Customer 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.)
Page 387: Gm Mobility Program For Persons With Disabilities
Overseas – Customer Assistance Please contact the local General Motors Business Unit. Mexico, Central America and Caribbean Islands/Countries (Except Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands) – Customer Assistance General Motors de Mexico, S. de R.L. de C.V. Customer Assistance Center Paseo de la Reforma # 2740 Col.
Page 388: Roadside Assistance Program
Roadside Assistance Program Buick Motor Division is proud to offer Buick Premium Roadside Assistance to customers for vehicles covered under the 3 year/36,000 mile (60 000 km) new car warranty (whichever occurs ﬁrst). Our commitment to Buick owners has always included superior service through our network of Buick dealers.
Page 389: Courtesy Transportation
Buick reserves the right to limit services or reimbursement to an owner or driver when, in Buick’s judgement, the claims become excessive in frequency or type of occurrence. While we hope you never have the occasion to use our service, it is added security while traveling for you and your family.
Page 390: Transportation Options
Transportation Options Warranty service can generally be completed while you wait. However, if you are unable to wait Buick helps minimize your inconvenience by providing several transportation options. Depending on the circumstances, your dealer can offer you one of the following:...
Page 391: Additional Program Information
Additional Program Information Courtesy Transportation is available during the Bumper-to-Bumper warranty coverage period, but it is not part of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. A separate booklet entitled Warranty and Owner Assistance Information furnished with each new vehicle provides detailed warranty coverage information. Courtesy Transportation is available only at participating dealers and all program options, such as shuttle service, may not be available at every dealer.
Page 392: Reporting Safety Defects
To read this information, special equipment is needed and access to the vehicle or the SDM is required. GM will not access information about a crash event or share it with others other than • with the consent of the vehicle owner or, if the vehicle is leased, with the consent of the lessee, •...
Page 393: Reporting Safety Defects To The Canadian Government
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 Customer Assistance Center P.O. Box 33136 Detroit, MI 48232-5136 In Canada, please call us at 1-800-263-3777 (English) or 1-800-263-7854 (French).
Page 394: Owner's Information
Owner’s Information Owner publications are written speciﬁcally for owners and intended to provide basic operational information about the vehicle. The owner’s manual will include the Maintenance Schedule for all models. In-Portfolio: Includes a Portfolio, Owner’s Manual, and Warranty Booklet. RETAIL SELL PRICE: $35.00 Without Portfolio: Owner’s Manual only.
Page 395 Accessory Power Outlets ... 3-22 Activating the Theft-Deterrent Feature ... 3-75 Adding Washer Fluid ... 5-39 Additional Program Information ... 7-9 Additives, Fuel ... 5-5 Add-On Electrical Equipment ... 5-98 Adjusting the Speakers (Balance/Fade) ... 3-61, 3-66 Air Bag Readiness Light ... 3-36 Air Bag Systems ...
Page 396 Backing Up ... 4-43 Battery ... 5-43 Battery Replacement ... 2-9 Battery Rundown Protection ... 3-18 Battery Warning Light ... 3-37 Before Leaving on a Long Trip ... 4-23 Body Lubrication Service ... 6-20 Brake Parking ... 2-29 System Inspection ... 6-24 System Warning Light ...
Page 397 Chemical Paint Spotting ... 5-96 Child Restraints Child Restraint Systems ... 1-33 Infants and Young Children ... 1-30 Lower Anchorages and Top Tethers for Children (LATCH System) ... 1-40 Older Children ... 1-27 Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System ... 1-42 Securing a Child Restraint in a Center Rear Seat Position ...
Page 398 Customer Assistance Information (cont.) Customer Assistance for Text Telephone (TTY) Users ... 7-4 Customer Assistance Offices ... 7-4 Customer Satisfaction Procedure ... 7-2 GM Mobility Program for Persons with Disabilities ... 7-5 Reporting Safety Defects to General Motors ... 7-11 Reporting Safety Defects to the Canadian Government ...
Page 399 Electrical System Add-On Equipment ... 5-98 Fuses and Circuit Breakers ... 5-99 Removing the Rear Seat Cushion ... 5-104 Emergency Trunk Release Handle ... 2-16 Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Programs ... 3-43 Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ... 5-20 Battery ... 5-43 Check and Service Engine Soon Light ...
Page 400 Fuel (cont.) Fuels in Foreign Countries ... 5-6 Gage ... 3-46 Gasoline Octane ... 5-4 Gasoline Speciﬁcations ... 5-5 System Inspection ... 6-24 FUEL INFO (Information) ... 3-48 Fuses Fuses and Circuit Breakers ... 5-99 Gage Engine Coolant Temperature ... 3-40 Fuel ...
Page 401 How to Check ... 5-23, 5-70 How to Check and Add Oil ... 5-20 How to Check Power Steering Fluid ... 5-38 How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter ... 5-21 How to Use This Manual ... ii How to Wear Safety Belts Properly ... 1-12 Hydroplaning ...
Page 402 LATCH System Child Restraints ... 1-40 Securing a Child Restraint Designed for the LATCH System ... 1-42 Leaving Your Vehicle ... 2-14 Leaving Your Vehicle With the Engine Running ... 2-32 Light Air Bag Readiness ... 3-36 Anti-Lock Brake System Warning ... 3-39 Battery Warning ...
Page 403 Maintenance Schedule (cont.) Long Trip/Highway Scheduled Maintenance ... 6-14 Maintenance Requirements ... 6-2 Part A - Scheduled Maintenance Services ... 6-4 Part B - Owner Checks and Services ... 6-19 Part C - Periodic Maintenance Inspections ... 6-23 Part D - Recommended Fluids and Lubricants ...
Page 404 Online Owner Center ... 7-3 ® OnStar Personal Calling ... 2-42 ® OnStar Services ... 2-42 ® OnStar System ... 2-41 ® OnStar Virtual Advisor ... 2-42 Other Warning Devices ... 3-4 Outlet Adjustment ... 3-29 Outside Automatic Dimming Heated Mirror ... 2-41 Convex Mirror ...
Page 405 Power Steering ... 4-11 Programmable Automatic Door Locks ... 2-12, 3-54 ® Programming the HomeLink Transmitter ... 2-43 Questions and Answers About Safety Belts ... 1-10 Radiator Pressure Cap ... 5-27 Radios ... 3-57 Care of Your Cassette Tape Player ... 3-79 Care of Your CD Player ...
Page 406 Reporting Safety Defects Canadian Government ... 7-11 General Motors ... 7-11 United States Government ... 7-10 Reprogramming a Single HomeLink Resetting Defaults ... 2-46 Restraint System Check ... 6-20 Checking Your Restraint Systems ... 1-58 Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash ... 1-59 Restraint Systems Checking ...
Page 407 Sensors ... 3-26 Service ... 5-3 Adding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle ... 5-4 Doing Your Own Work ... 5-3 Engine Soon Light ... 3-41 Publications Ordering Information ... 7-11 Vehicle Soon Light ... 3-45 Service Bulletins ... 7-11 Service Engine Soon Light ...
Page 408 Theft-Deterrent Systems ... 2-19 Content Theft-Deterrent ... 2-19 ® PASS-Key III ... 2-21 ® PASS-Key III Operation ... 2-22 Throttle System Inspection ... 6-24 Tilt Wheel ... 3-5 Tire Inﬂation Check ... 6-19 Tire Sidewall Labeling ... 5-62 Tire Size ... 5-66 Tire Terminology and Deﬁnitions ...
Page 409 Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist (URPA) ... 3-20 Underbody Flushing Service ... 6-22 Underhood Fuse Block ... 5-102 Understanding Radio Reception ... 3-78 Uniform Tire Quality Grading ... 5-75 United States – Customer Assistance ... 7-4 Unlocking the Theft-Deterrent Feature After a Power Loss ... 3-76 Used Replacement Wheels ...
Page 410 When to Add Engine Oil ... 5-15 When to Change Engine Oil (Vehicles Without the GM Oil Life System) ... 5-17 When to Change Engine Oil (Vehicles With the GM Oil Life System) ... 5-18 When to Check ... 5-19, 5-70 When to Check and Change ...

This manual is also suitable for:

Parkave 2004

Buick 2004 Park Avenue Owner's Manual

Table of Contents

Seats and Restraint Systems

Features and Controls

Instrument Panel

Maintenance Schedule

Service and Appearance Care

Section 4 Driving Your Vehicle

Driving Your Vehicle

Your Driving, the Road, and Your Vehicle

Towing

Section 5 Service and Appearance Care

Service and Appearance Care

Service

Fuel

Headlamp Aiming

Bulb Replacement

Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement

Tires

Appearance Care

Electrical System

Vehicle Identiﬁcation

Capacities and Speciﬁcations

Normal Maintenance Replacement Parts

Quick Links

Chapters

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Summary of Contents for Buick 2004 Park Avenue