Radiator Pressure Cap; Engine Overheating - Buick Century 2003 Owner's Manual

Radiator Pressure Cap

Notice: Your radiator cap is a pressure-type cap
and must be tightly installed to prevent coolant loss
and possible engine damage from overheating.
Be sure the arrows on the cap line up with the
overflow tube on the radiator filler neck.
The radiator pressure cap is located near the front of
the engine compartment on the passenger's side of the
vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview on
page 5-12 for more information on location.

Engine Overheating

You will find a coolant temperature gage and a hot
engine warning light on your instrument panel.
See Engine Coolant Temperature Gage on page 3-30
and Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light on
page 3-29 .
5-26
Overheated Engine Protection
Operating Mode
The emergency engine protection operating mode
allows your vehicle to be driven to a safe place in an
emergency situation. If an overheated engine condition
exists, this protection mode alternates firing groups
of cylinders to help prevent engine damage. In
this mode, you will notice a significant loss in power and
engine performance. The engine coolant temperature
gage indicator will move to the red area, showing that an
overheated engine condition exists. Driving extended
miles (km) and/or towing a trailer in the overheated
protection mode should be avoided.
Notice: After driving in the overheated engine
protection operating mode, to avoid engine damage,
allow the engine to cool before attempting any repair.
The engine oil will be severely degraded. Repair the
cause of coolant loss, change the oil and reset the oil
life system. See "Engine Oil" in the Index.