Buick CENTURY 1999 Owner's Manual

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The 1999 Buick Century Owner's Manual

Seats and Restraint Systems

This section tells you how to use your seats and safety belts properly. It also explains the air bag system.

Features and Controls

This section explains how to start and operate your vehicle.

Comfort Controls and Audio Systems

This section tells you how to adjust the ventilation and comfort controls and how to operate your audio system.

Your Driving and the Road

Here you'll find helpful information and tips about the road and how to drive under different conditions.

Problems on the Road

This section tells you what to do if you have a problem while driving, such as a flat tire or overheated engine, etc.

Service and Appearance Care

Here the manual tells you how to keep your vehicle running properly and looking good.

Maintenance Schedule

This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use.

Customer Assistance Information

This section tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service and owner publications.

It also gives you information on "Reporting Safety Defects" on page 8

Index

Here's an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual. You can use it to quickly find

something you want to read.

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Table of Contents

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Summary of Contents for Buick CENTURY 1999

Page 1 This section tells you when to perform vehicle maintenance and what fluids and lubricants to use. Customer Assistance Information This section tells you how to contact Buick for assistance and how to get service and owner publications. It also gives you information on “Reporting Safety Defects” on page 8 Index Here’s an alphabetical listing of almost every subject in this manual.
Page 2: For Canadian Owners Who Prefer A French Language Manual
We support voluntary technician certification. GENERAL MOTORS, GM, the GM Emblem, BUICK, the BUICK Emblem and the name CENTURY are registered trademarks of General Motors Corporation. This manual includes the latest information at the time it was printed. We reserve the right to make changes in the product after that time without further notice.
Page 3: How To Use This Manual
yellowblue How to Use this Manual CAUTION: Many people read their owner’s manual from beginning to end when they first receive their new vehicle. If you do this, it will help you learn about the features These mean there is something that could hurt and controls for your vehicle.
Page 4: Vehicle Damage Warnings
yellowblue Vehicle Damage Warnings In the notice area, we tell you about something that can damage your vehicle. Many times, this damage would Also, in this book you will find these notices: not be covered by your warranty, and it could be costly.
Page 5 yellowblue Vehicle Symbols These are some of the symbols you may find on your vehicle. For example, These symbols These symbols These symbols These symbols Here are some these symbols are important have to do with are on some of are used on other symbols are used on an...
Page 6 yellowblue NOTES...
Page 7: Section 1 Seats And Restraint Systems
yellowblue Section 1 Seats and Restraint Systems Here you’ll find information about the seats in your vehicle and how to use your safety belts properly. You can also learn about some things you should not do with air bags and safety belts. Seats and Seat Controls Rear Seat Passengers Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone...
Page 8: Seats And Seat Controls
yellowblue Seats and Seat Controls 2-Way Manual Seat This section tells you how to adjust the seats and explains the reclining seatbacks and head restraints. Manual Front Seat CAUTION: You can lose control of the vehicle if you try to adjust a manual driver’s seat while the vehicle is moving.
Page 9: Reclining Front Seatbacks
yellowblue 6-Way Power Seat (If Equipped) Reclining Front Seatbacks You may have a six way power driver’s seat and a way power passenger’s seat (if equipped). Lift the lever to release the seatback, then move the This switch is designed to imitate the movements of seatback to where you want it.
Page 10: Head Restraints
yellowblue 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. The shoulder belt can’t do its job because it won’t be against your body.
Page 11: Safety Belts: They're For Everyone
yellowblue Safety Belts: They’re for Everyone CAUTION: 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. It is extremely dangerous to ride in a cargo area, inside or outside of a vehicle.
Page 12: Why Safety Belts Work
yellowblue In most states and Canadian provinces, the law says to Why Safety Belts Work wear safety belts. Here’s why: They work. When you ride in or on anything, you go as fast as You never know if you’ll be in a crash. If you do have a it goes.
Page 13 yellowblue Put someone on it. Get it up to speed. Then stop the vehicle. The rider doesn’t stop.
Page 14 yellowblue The person keeps going until stopped by something. or the instrument panel ... In a real vehicle, it could be the windshield ...
Page 15 yellowblue Here Are Questions Many People Ask About Safety Belts and the Answers Won’t I be trapped in the vehicle after an accident if I’m wearing a safety belt? You could be whether you’re wearing a safety belt or not. But you can unbuckle a safety belt, even if you’re upside down.
Page 16: How To Wear Safety Belts Properly
yellowblue If I’m a good driver, and I never drive far from How to Wear Safety Belts Properly home, why should I wear safety belts? Adults You may be an excellent driver, but if you’re in an This part is only for people of adult size. accident even one that isn’t your fault you and...
Page 17: Driver Position
yellowblue Driver Position This part describes the driver’s restraint system. Lap-Shoulder Belt The driver has a lap shoulder belt. Here’s how to wear it properly. 1. Close and lock the door. 2. Adjust the seat (to see how, see “Seats” in the Index) so you can sit up straight.
Page 18 yellowblue Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. If the belt isn’t long enough, see “Safety Belt Extender” at the end of this section. Make sure the release button on the buckle is positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the safety belt quickly if you ever had to.
Page 19 yellowblue Shoulder Belt Height Adjuster To move it down, squeeze the release lever and the shoulder belt guide as shown and move the height Before you begin to drive, move the shoulder belt adjuster to the desired position. You can move the adjuster to the height that is right for you.
Page 20 yellowblue What’s wrong with this? 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. The shoulder belt is too loose. It won’t give nearly as much protection this way.
Page 21 yellowblue What’s wrong with this? 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 yellowblue What’s wrong with this? 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. Also, the belt would apply too much force to the ribs, which aren’t as strong as shoulder bones.
Page 23 yellowblue What’s wrong with this? 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
yellowblue Safety Belt Use During Pregnancy Safety belts work for everyone, including pregnant women. Like all occupants, they are more likely to be seriously injured if they don’t wear safety belts. To unlatch the belt, just push the button on the buckle. The belt should go back out of the way.
Page 25: Right Front Passenger Position
yellowblue The best way to protect the fetus is to protect the Air Bag System mother. When a safety belt is worn properly, it’s more This part explains the air bag system. likely that the fetus won’t be hurt in a crash. For pregnant women, as for anyone, the key to making Your vehicle has “Next Generation”...
Page 26 yellowblue Here are the most important things to know about the air bag system: CAUTION: CAUTION: 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 You can be severely injured or killed in a crash if forward, it could seriously injure you.
Page 27 yellowblue There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument CAUTION: panel, which shows the air bag symbol. Children who are up against, or very close to, any air bag when it inflates can be seriously injured or killed. This is true even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags.
Page 28: How The Air Bag System Works
yellowblue How the Air Bag System Works The right front passenger’s air bag is in the instrument panel on the passenger’s side. Where are the air bags? The driver’s air bag is in the middle of the steering wheel. 1-22...
Page 29 yellowblue it can be somewhat above or below this range. If your vehicle strikes something that will move or deform, such CAUTION: as a parked car, the threshold level will be higher. The air bag is not designed to inflate in rollovers, side If something is between an occupant and an air impacts or rear impacts, because inflation would not bag, the bag might not inflate properly or it...
Page 30 yellowblue How does an air bag restrain? CAUTION: In moderate to severe frontal or near frontal collisions, even belted occupants can contact the steering wheel or the instrument panel. Air bags supplement the protection When an air bag inflates, there is dust in the air. provided by safety belts.
Page 31: Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle
yellowblue Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and Servicing Your Air Bag-Equipped Vehicle diagnostic module, which records information about Air bags affect how your vehicle should be serviced. the air bag system. The module records information There are parts of the air bag system in several places about the readiness of the system, when the sensors around your vehicle.
Page 32: Center Passenger Position
yellowblue Center Passenger Position Lap Belt If your vehicle has a bench seat, someone can sit in the center position. When you sit in a center seating position, you have a lap safety belt, which has no retractor. To make the belt longer, tilt the latch plate and pull it along the belt.
Page 33: Rear Seat Passengers
yellowblue 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 34: Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions
yellowblue Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions Shoulder Belt The positions next to the windows have lap shoulder belts. Here’s how to wear one properly. 1. Pick up the latch plate and pull the belt across you. Don’t let it get twisted. The shoulder belt may lock if you pull the belt across you very quickly.
Page 35 yellowblue 2. Push the latch plate into the buckle until it clicks. Pull up on the latch plate to make sure it is secure. When the shoulder belt is pulled out all the way, it will lock. If it does, let it go back all the way and start again.
Page 36 yellowblue 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. The lap part of the belt should be worn low and snug on the hips, just touching the thighs.
Page 37: Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides For Children And Small Adults
yellowblue Rear Safety Belt Comfort Guides for Children and Small Adults Rear shoulder belt comfort guides will provide added safety belt comfort for children who have outgrown child restraints and for small adults. When installed on a shoulder belt, the comfort guide pulls the belt away from the neck and head.
Page 38 yellowblue 1. Pull the elastic cord out from between the edge of 2. Slide the guide under and past the belt. The elastic the seatback and the interior body to remove the cord must be under the belt. Then, place the guide guide from its storage clip.
Page 39 yellowblue 3. Be sure that the belt is not twisted and it lies flat. 4. Buckle, position and release the safety belt as The elastic cord must be under the belt and the guide described in “Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions” on top.
Page 40: Smaller Children And Babies
yellowblue Children Smaller Children and Babies Everyone in a vehicle needs protection! That includes infants and all children smaller than adult size. Neither CAUTION: 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 Children who are up against, or very close to, any every Canadian province says children up to some age...
Page 41 yellowblue Infants need complete support, including support for the head and neck. This is necessary because an infant’s CAUTION: neck is weak and its head weighs so much compared with the rest of its body. In a frontal crash, an infant in a Smaller children and babies should always be rear facing restraint settles into the restraint, so the crash...
Page 42 yellowblue CAUTION: (Continued) at only 25 mph (40 km/h), a 12 lb. (5.5 kg) baby will suddenly become a 240 lb. (110 kg) force on your arms. The baby would be almost impossible to hold. Secure the baby in an infant restraint. CAUTION: Never hold a baby in your arms while riding in a vehicle.
Page 43: Child Restraints
yellowblue Child Restraints Every time infants and young children ride in vehicles, they should have protection provided by appropriate restraints. What are the different types of add child restraints? on child restraints are available in four basic types. When selecting a child restraint, take into consideration not only the child’s weight and size, but also whether or not the restraint will be compatible with the motor vehicle in which it will...
Page 44 yellowblue A rear facing infant restraint (B) positions an infant to face the rear of the vehicle. Rear facing infant restraints are designed for infants of up to about 20 lbs. (9 kg) and about one year of age. This type of restraint faces the rear so that the infant’s head, neck and body can have the support they need in a frontal crash.
Page 45 yellowblue A forward facing child restraint (C E) positions a child upright to face forward in the vehicle. These forward facing restraints are designed to help protect children who are from 20 to 40 lbs. (9 to 18 kg) and about 26 to 40 inches (66 to 102 cm) in height, or up to around four years of age.
Page 46 yellowblue A booster seat (F, G) is designed for children who are about 40 to 60 lbs., or even up to 80 lbs. (18 to 27 kg, or even up to 36 kg), and about four to eight years of age. A booster seat is designed to improve the fit of the vehicle’s safety belt system.
Page 47: Where To Put The Restraint
yellowblue When choosing a child restraint, be sure the child restraint is designed to be used in a vehicle. If it is, it CAUTION: will have a label saying that it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards. A child in a rear facing child restraint can be Then follow the instructions for the restraint.
Page 48: Top Strap
yellowblue Top Strap CAUTION: A child in a child restraint in the center front seat can be badly injured or killed by the right front passenger air bag if it inflates, even though your vehicle has Next Generation frontal air bags. Never secure a child restraint in the center front seat.
Page 49: Securing A Child Restraint In A Rear Outside Seat Position
yellowblue Securing a Child Restraint in a Rear Outside Seat Position You’ll be using the lap shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint.
Page 50 yellowblue 4. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of 5. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the retractor to set the lock. the retractor while you push down on the child restraint.
Page 51: Securing A Child Restraint In The Center Rear Seat Position
yellowblue To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt and let it go back all the way. The safety belt CAUTION: will move freely again and be ready to work for an adult or larger child passenger. A child in a child restraint in the center front seat Securing a Child Restraint in the Center can be badly injured or killed by the right front...
Page 52 yellowblue 4. Buckle the belt. Make sure the release button is 1. Make the belt as long as possible by tilting the latch positioned so you would be able to unbuckle the plate and pulling it along the belt. safety belt quickly if you ever had to. 2.
Page 53: Securing A Child Restraint In The Right Front Seat Position
yellowblue To remove the child restraint, just unbuckle the vehicle’s safety belt. It will be ready to work for an adult or larger CAUTION: child passenger. Securing a Child Restraint in the Right A child in a rear facing child restraint can be Front Seat Position seriously injured or killed if the right front passenger’s air bag inflates, even though your...
Page 54 yellowblue Although a rear seat is a safer place, you can secure a forward facing child restraint in the right front seat. You’ll be using the lap shoulder belt. See the earlier part about the top strap if the child restraint has one. Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the child restraint.
Page 55 yellowblue 6. To tighten the belt, feed the shoulder belt back into the 5. Pull the rest of the shoulder belt all the way out of retractor while you push down on the child restraint. the retractor to set the lock. You may find it helpful to use your knee to push down on the child restraint as you tighten the belt.
Page 56: Larger Children
yellowblue Larger Children If you have the choice, a child should sit next to a window so the child can wear a lap shoulder belt and get the additional restraint a shoulder belt can provide. Accident statistics show that children are safer if they are restrained in the rear seat.
Page 57 yellowblue 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.
Page 58 yellowblue CAUTION: Never do this. Here a child is sitting in a seat that has a shoulder belt, but the shoulder part is behind the child. If the child wears the belt in this way, in a crash the child might slide under the belt. The belt’s force would then be applied right on the child’s abdomen.
Page 59: Safety Belt Extender
yellowblue Safety Belt Extender Replacing Restraint System Parts After a Crash If the vehicle’s safety belt will fasten around you, you should use it. If you’ve had a crash, do you need new belts? But if a safety belt isn’t long enough to fasten, your After a very minor collision, nothing may be necessary.
Page 60 yellowblue NOTES 1-54...
Page 61: Section 2 Features And Controls
yellowblue Section 2 Features and Controls Here you can learn about the many standard and optional features on your vehicle, and information on starting, shifting and braking. Also explained are the instrument panel and the warning systems that tell you if everything is working properly and what to do if you have a problem.
Page 62 yellowblue 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 power windows or other controls or even make the vehicle move. Don’t leave the keys in a vehicle with children.
Page 63 The ignition key is for the The ignition and door keys don’t have plugs. Your ignition only. dealer or Buick Premium Roadside Assistance has the code for your keys. If you need a new ignition or door key, contact your...
Page 64: Door Locks
yellowblue Door Locks CAUTION: Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Passengers especially children can easily open the doors and fall out. When a door is locked, the inside handle won’t open it. Outsiders can easily enter through an unlocked door when you slow down or stop your vehicle. This may not be so obvious: You increase the chance of being thrown out of the vehicle in a From the inside, to lock or unlock the door manually,...
Page 65: Programmable Automatic Power Door Locks
yellowblue Power Door Locks Mode 1: No automatic door lock or unlock. Mode 2: Automatic all door lock when the transaxle is Press the power door lock shifted out of PARK (P); no automatic door unlock. switch to lock or unlock all Automatic door relock when any door is unlocked, doors.
Page 66 yellowblue The operating mode of the Programmable Automatic Rear-Door Child Security Locks Power Door Locks will be changed when the driver performs the following sequence with the engine not running, the doors closed and the ignition key in RUN: 1. Apply your regular brakes. 2.
Page 67: Leaving Your Vehicle
yellowblue 2. On the inside of the rear door will be a lock. Insert Remember, this feature can’t guarantee that you’ll never your key into this lock and turn it upward. This will be locked out of your vehicle. If you use the manual engage the safety lock.
Page 68: Operation
yellowblue This device complies with RSS 210 of Industry Canada. Operation Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this Press UNLOCK once to device must accept any interference received, including unlock the driver’s door and interference that may cause undesired operation of to turn on the interior lamps...
Page 69 yellowblue Instant Alarm Mode 1: No Verification This feature allows you to activate an alarm by pressing Mode 2: Horn Chirp only a button on the remote keyless entry transmitter. Your Mode 3: Headlamp Flash only vehicle’s ignition must be off for the Instant Alarm to work.
Page 70 yellowblue The operating mode of the Security Feedback unlock Delayed Locking feature will be changed when you perform the following Delayed Locking allows the doors to be locked while sequence with your vehicle’s doors closed and the passengers are exiting the vehicle. This feature also ignition key in RUN: provides a brief time period after all the doors are Press and hold the power door unlock switch.
Page 71 yellowblue If you wish to let the Delayed Locking feature complete After an initial transaxle cycle, each additional cycle the locking of the vehicle, no additional action is will toggle the enable/disable state of the Delayed required. The Delayed Locking feature will lock the Locking feature.
Page 72: Matching Transmitter(S) To Your Vehicle
yellowblue Matching Transmitter(s) To Your Vehicle NOTICE: Each remote keyless entry transmitter is coded to prevent another transmitter from unlocking your vehicle. When replacing the battery, use care not to If a transmitter is lost or stolen, a replacement can be touch any of the circuitry.
Page 73 yellowblue To replace the battery: Resynchronization 1. Insert a flat object like a dime into the slot on the Resynchronization may be necessary due to the security back of the transmitter. Gently pry apart the front method used by this remote keyless entry system. The and back.
Page 74: Trunk Lock
yellowblue Trunk Trunk Lock To unlock the trunk from the outside, insert the door key and turn it. You can also press the car symbol on your CAUTION: remote keyless entry transmitter. Theft It can be dangerous to drive with the trunk open Vehicle theft is big business, especially in some cities.
Page 75: Parking At Night
yellowblue Parking at Night PASS Park in a lighted spot, close all windows and lock your Your vehicle is equipped vehicle. Remember to keep your valuables out of sight. with the PASS Key II Put them in a storage area, or take them with you. (Personalized Automotive Security System) Parking Lots...
Page 76 Key II ignition key, see more information. your dealer or a locksmith who can service PASS Key II to have a new key made. In an emergency, call the Buick Premium Roadside Assistance Center at 1112. In Canada, call 1 6800.
Page 77: Ignition Positions
yellowblue Ignition Positions With the ignition key in the ignition, you can turn the switch to five positions: ACCESSORY (A): The accessory position lets you use CAUTION: the radio and windshield wipers when the engine is off. To use ACC, push in the key and turn it toward you. Leaving children in a vehicle with the ignition Your steering wheel will stay locked.
Page 78: Starting Your V6 Engine
yellowblue NOTICE: NOTICE: If your key seems stuck in LOCK and you can’t Don’t try to shift to PARK (P) if your vehicle is turn it, be sure you are using the correct key; if moving. If you do, you could damage the so, is it all the way in? If it is, then turn the transaxle.
Page 79: Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped)
yellowblue 2. If your engine won’t start (or starts but then stops), it Engine Coolant Heater (If Equipped) could be flooded with too much gasoline. Try pushing your accelerator pedal all the way to the floor and holding it there as you hold the key in START for up to 15 seconds.
Page 80: To Use The Engine Coolant Heater
yellowblue To Use the Engine Coolant Heater How long should you keep the coolant heater plugged in? The answer depends on the outside temperature, the 1. Turn off the engine. kind of oil you have, and some other things. Instead of trying to list everything here, we ask that you contact 2.
Page 81 yellowblue Maximum engine speed is limited on automatic CAUTION: (Continued) transaxle vehicles when you’re in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) to protect driveline components from You or others could be injured. To be sure your improper operation. vehicle won’t move, even when you’re on fairly There are several different positions for your shift lever.
Page 82 yellowblue REVERSE (R): Use this gear to back up. CAUTION: NOTICE: Shifting out of PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N) while your engine is “racing” (running at high speed) is Shifting to REVERSE (R) while your vehicle is dangerous. Unless your foot is firmly on the moving forward could damage your transaxle.
Page 83 yellowblue AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( ): This position is THIRD (3): This position is also used for normal for normal driving. If you need more power for passing, driving, but it offers more power and lower fuel and you’re: economy than AUTOMATIC OVERDRIVE ( Going less than 35 mph (55 km/h), push your Here are some times you might choose THIRD (3) accelerator pedal about halfway down.
Page 84 yellowblue SECOND (2): This position gives you more power but FIRST (1): This position gives you even more power lower fuel economy. You can use SECOND (2) on hills. (but lower fuel economy) than SECOND (2). You can It can help control your speed as you go down steep use it on very steep hills, or in deep snow or mud.
Page 85: Parking Brake
yellowblue Parking Brake A warning chime will sound if the parking brake is set, the ignition is on and the shift lever is not in PARK (P) or NEUTRAL (N). To set the parking brake, hold the regular brake pedal down with your right foot.
Page 86: Shifting Into Park (P)
yellowblue Shifting Into PARK (P) CAUTION: It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. If you have left the engine running, the vehicle can move suddenly.
Page 87: Leaving Your Vehicle With The Engine Running
yellowblue 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 88: Torque Lock
yellowblue Torque Lock Shifting Out of PARK (P) If you are parking on a hill and you don’t shift your transaxle into PARK (P) properly, the weight of the CAUTION: vehicle may put too much force on the parking pawl in the transaxle.
Page 89: Parking Over Things That Burn
yellowblue If you cannot shift out of PARK (P), ease pressure on Parking Over Things That Burn the shift lever by pushing it all the way into PARK (P) while keeping the brake pedal pushed down. Then move the shift lever out of PARK (P). If you ever hold the brake pedal down but still can’t shift out of PARK (P), try this: 1.
Page 90: Engine Exhaust
yellowblue Engine Exhaust Running Your Engine While You’re Parked It’s better not to park with the engine running. But if you CAUTION: ever have to, here are some things to know. Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or CAUTION: smell.
Page 91: Power Windows
yellowblue Windows CAUTION: Power Windows It can be dangerous to get out of your vehicle if the shift lever is not fully in PARK (P) with the parking brake firmly set. Your vehicle can roll. Don’t leave your vehicle when the engine is running unless you have to.
Page 92: Steering Column
yellowblue The driver’s window switch has an express down TILT WHEEL Adjustable feature. This switch is labeled AUTO. Tap the rear of Steering Column the switch, and the driver’s window will open a small amount. If the rear of the switch is pressed all the way A tilt steering wheel allows down, the window will go all the way down.
Page 93: Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever
yellowblue Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever Turn Signal and Lane Change Indicator The turn signal has the following positions: two upward (for right) and two downward (for left). These positions allow you to signal a turn or a lane change. To signal a turn, move the lever all the way up or down. When the turn is finished, the lever will return automatically.
Page 94: Windshield Wipers
yellowblue A chime will sound if you leave your turn signal on for Windshield Wipers more than 3/4 mile (1.2 km). Headlamp High/Low Beam Changer To change your headlamps from low beams to high beams, or high to low, pull the multifunction lever all the way toward you.
Page 95: Cruise Control (If Equipped)
yellowblue snow. Turn the band to choose the delay time. The The LOW WASH light on closer to LO, the shorter the delay between wipes. your instrument panel cluster will glow when the Be sure to clear ice and snow from the wiper blades fluid level is low.
Page 96 yellowblue Cruise control does not work at speeds below about Setting Cruise Control 25 mph (40 km/h). When you apply your brakes, the cruise control CAUTION: shuts off. If you leave your cruise control switch on when CAUTION: you’re not using cruise, you might hit a button and go into cruise when you don’t want to.
Page 97 yellowblue Resuming a Set Speed Move the cruise switch from ON to R/A. Hold it there until you get up to the speed you want, and Suppose you set your cruise control at a desired speed then release the switch. (To increase your speed in and then you apply the brake.
Page 98: Exterior Lamps
yellowblue Using Cruise Control on Hills Exterior Lamps How well your cruise control will work on hills depends The lamp controls are located on the instrument panel. upon your speed, load and the steepness of the hills. They control these systems: When going up steep hills, you may have to step on the Headlamps accelerator pedal to maintain your speed.
Page 99: Daytime Running Lamps / Automatic Headlamp Control
yellowblue Push the knob in all the way to turn off the lamps. When it’s dark enough outside, your front turn signal lamps will turn off and your vehicle’s headlamps and A warning chime will sound if you open the driver’s parking lamps will turn on.
Page 100: Interior Lamps
yellowblue You can customize the vehicle to activate Delayed Interior Lamps Headlamp Illumination when your vehicle’s ignition is turned off under the conditions described above, or you Instrument Panel Brightness Control may choose not to activate this feature under any You can brighten or dim the instrument panel lights by conditions.
Page 101: Delayed Entry Lighting
yellowblue Illuminated Entry includes a feature called Theater If during the illumination period a door is opened, the Dimming. With Theater Dimming, the lamps don’t just timed illumination period will be canceled and the turn off at the end of the delay time. Instead, they slowly interior lamps will remain on since a door is open.
Page 102: Battery Run-Down Protection
yellowblue Rearview Mirror Reading Lamps Battery Rundown Protection Your vehicle has a feature to help prevent you from draining the battery in case you accidentally leave the interior courtesy lamps, reading/map lamps, visor vanity lamps, trunk lamp, underhood lamp or glove box lamps on.
Page 103 yellowblue Electrochromic Automatic Dimming Power Outside Foldaway Mirrors Rearview Mirror (If Equipped) The power mirror control switches are located near the driver’s side window, on the armrest. To choose either the left or right outside mirror, move the top switch from left through neutral to right.
Page 104: Storage Compartments
yellowblue Automatic Dimming/Heated Outside CAUTION: Rearview Mirror (If Equipped) If you have this feature, the driver’s side outside mirror will adjust for the glare of headlamps behind you. This A convex mirror can make things (like other feature is controlled by the on and off settings on the vehicles) look farther away than they really are.
Page 105: Ashtrays And Lighter
yellowblue Rear Storage Armrest (If Equipped) The rear ashtray is located within a small door at the back of your vehicle’s front seat armrest. Push on the right side You may also have an armrest located within the center of the door. The ashtray will then rotate to the right for back seat of your vehicle.
Page 106: Sun Visors
yellowblue Sun Visors This feature provides power, ground and accessory wires which can be accessed to add aftermarket To block out glare, you can swing down the visors. You electrical equipment to your vehicle. It is located on the can also move them from side to side. The visors also passenger’s side of the vehicle, under the glove box, and have extenders that you can pull out for added coverage.
Page 107 yellowblue See “Retained Accessory Power” in the Index. The To close the astroroof, push and hold the front of the control switch is located overhead on the headliner. switch until the sunroof motor stops. The sunshade can only be closed by hand. OnStar (Option) Your vehicle’s electrical wiring will accommodate...
Page 108 yellowblue The Instrument Panel Your Information System A. Lamp Controls D. Glove Box B. Instrument Cluster E. Audio System C. Vents F. Climate Controls 2-48...
Page 109: Instrument Panel Cluster
yellowblue Instrument Panel Cluster Standard Cluster: United States Version Shown, Canadian Similar Your instrument cluster is designed to let you know at a glance how your vehicle is running. You’ll know how fast you’re going, about how much fuel is in your tank and many other things you need to drive safely and economically. 2-49...
Page 110: Speedometer And Odometer
yellowblue Speedometer and Odometer If the button is pressed and held for longer than 1.5 seconds while in the odometer mode, it will have Your speedometer lets you see your speed in both miles no effect. per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h). Your odometer shows how far your vehicle has been driven in Warning Lights, Gages either miles (used in the United States) or in kilometers...
Page 111: Safety Belt Reminder Light
yellowblue When one of the warning lights comes on and stays on Air Bag Readiness Light when you are driving, or when one of the gages shows There is an air bag readiness light on the instrument there may be a problem, check the section that tells you panel, which shows the air bag symbol.
Page 112: Charging System Light
yellowblue Charging System Light This light should come on briefly when you turn the The charging system light ignition key to RUN. If it will come on briefly when doesn’t come on then, have you turn on the ignition, as it fixed so it will be ready a check to show you it’s to warn you if there’s...
Page 113: Anti-Lock Brake System Warning Light
yellowblue When the ignition is on, the brake system warning light The anti lock brake system warning light should come will also come on when you set your parking brake. The on briefly when you turn the ignition key to RUN. If the light will stay on if your parking brake doesn’t release light doesn’t come on then, have it fixed so it will be fully.
Page 114: Enhanced Traction System Active Light
yellowblue If the Enhanced Traction System warning light Enhanced Traction System Active Light comes on and stays on for an extended period of time when the system is turned on, your vehicle The light will come on needs service. Adjust your driving accordingly. when your Enhanced Traction System is limiting The warning light will come on when you set your...
Page 115: Low Traction Light
yellowblue Low Traction Light Engine Coolant Temperature Light This light tells you that your If you have the Enhanced engine coolant has Traction System, this light overheated or your radiator will also come on when cooling fan is not working. the system is limiting wheel spin.
Page 116: Engine Coolant Temperature Gage
yellowblue Engine Coolant Temperature Gage Low Coolant Warning Light You have a gage that shows If the LOW COOLANT the engine coolant light comes on, your system temperature. If the gage is low on coolant and the pointer moves into the red engine may overheat.
Page 117 yellowblue Low Tire Light When the LOW TIRE light comes on, you should stop as soon as you can and check all your tires for damage. (If a tire is flat, see “If a Tire Goes Flat” in the Index.) The low tire inflation Also check the tire pressure in all four tires as soon as monitor system can alert...
Page 118: Malfunction Indicator Lamp
yellowblue Malfunction Indicator Lamp NOTICE: (Service Engine Soon Light) Your vehicle is equipped If you keep driving your vehicle with this light with a computer which on, after a while, your emission controls may not monitors operation of the work as well, your fuel economy may not be as fuel, ignition and emission good and your engine may not run as smoothly.
Page 119 yellowblue This light should come on, as a check to show you it is If the light stops flashing and remains on steady, see “If working, when the ignition is on and the engine is not the Light Is On Steady” following. running.
Page 120: Oil Warning Light
yellowblue Are you low on fuel? Oil Warning Light As your engine starts to run out of fuel, your engine may If you have a problem with not run as efficiently as designed since small amounts of your oil, this light may stay air are sucked into the fuel line causing a misfire.
Page 121: Low Oil Level Light
yellowblue Low Oil Level Light CAUTION: Your engine is equipped with an oil level monitoring Don’t keep driving if the oil pressure is low. If system. When the ignition you do, your engine can become so hot that it key is turned on, the LOW OIL light will come catches fire.
Page 122: Security Light
yellowblue Change Oil Soon Light It will also flash if your ignition key is too dirty or wet for the PASS II system to read the resistor pellet. The CHANGE OIL SOON See “PASS Key II” in the Index. light should come on briefly If the resistor pellet is damaged or missing, the light will as a bulb check when you come on.
Page 123: Service Vehicle Soon Light
yellowblue Service Vehicle Soon Light Door/Trunk Ajar Warning Light THE SERVICE VEHICLE The DOOR/TRUNK light SOON light will come on if will come on if your trunk you have certain or any door is not emission related completely closed. vehicle problems. These problems may not be obvious and may affect Fuel Gage vehicle performance or durability.
Page 124: Low Fuel Light
yellowblue Here are four things that some owners ask about. All Low Fuel Light these things are normal and do not indicate that anything If your fuel is low, a circular is wrong with the fuel gage: light on your instrument At the gas station, the pump shuts off before the gage panel will come on and reads FULL (F).
Page 125: Section 3 Comfort Controls And Audio Systems
yellowblue Section 3 Comfort Controls and Audio Systems In this section, you’ll find out how to operate the comfort control and audio systems offered with your vehicle. Be sure to read about the particular systems supplied with your vehicle. Comfort Controls FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and Manual Single Zone Climate Control Compact Disc Player with Automatic Tone...
Page 126: Comfort Controls
yellowblue Comfort Controls Temperature Knob The center knob changes the temperature of the air Manual Single Zone Climate Control coming through the system. Turn this knob toward red (clockwise) for warmer air. Turn it toward blue (counterclockwise) for cooler air. Mode Knob The right knob has several settings to control the direction of airflow:...
Page 127 yellowblue LEV: This setting brings in outside air and directs it Air Conditioning two ways. Half of the air is directed through the On very hot days, open the windows long enough to let instrument panel outlets. Most of the remaining air is hot, inside air escape.
Page 128: Defogging And Defrosting
yellowblue Heating Dual ComforTemp Climate Control (If Equipped) On cold days, use HTR with the temperature knob all the way in the red area. The system will bring in outside air, heat it and send it to the floor ducts. If your vehicle has an engine coolant heater, you can use it to help your system provide warm air faster when it’s 0 _ F (...
Page 129 yellowblue Driver’s Temperature Knob NORM: This setting brings in outside air and sends it through the instrument panel outlets. The air The center knob sets the temperature for the driver’s conditioning compressor will run automatically in this outlets. Turn the knob toward red (clockwise) for setting unless the outside temperature is below 40 _ F warmer air.
Page 130 yellowblue Heating FRONT: This setting directs most of the air On cold days, use HTR with the temperature knob and through the defroster and side window vents. Some of lever all the way in the red area. The system will bring the air goes to the floor ducts and the side window vents.
Page 131: Dual Automatic Comfortemp Climate Control (If Equipped)
yellowblue Dual Automatic ComforTemp Climate Temperature Control Control (If Equipped) The TEMP switch sets the temperature for the entire system when the light on the DUAL button isn’t lit. If the DUAL button light is lit, this master temperature control sets the temperature for the driver only.
Page 132 yellowblue The amber light indicates the same temperature as MID: This setting directs air through the instrument set for the driver. panel outlets. The red lights indicate a warmer temperature than FLOOR: This setting sends most of the air through that of the driver.
Page 133: Rear Window Defogger
yellowblue RECIRC: This setting recirculates much of the air Rear Window Defogger inside your vehicle. This setting is not permitted in FRONT defrost mode and is only permitted in WINDSHIELD/FLOOR mode if the compressor is turned on. The indicator light will be lit when recirculation is engaged, but will light for one second and then turn off if selected when not permitted.
Page 134: Ventilation System
yellowblue Ventilation System NOTICE: Adjust the direction of airflow by moving Do not attach anything like a temporary vehicle the vents. license or decal across the defogger grid. NOTICE: Don’t use a razor blade or anything else sharp on the inside of the rear window. If you do, you could cut or damage the warming grid, and the repairs wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Page 135: Audio Systems
yellowblue Ventilation Tips Audio Systems Keep the hood and front air inlet free of ice, snow or Your Delco Electronics audio system has been designed any other obstruction, such as leaves. The heater and to operate easily and give years of listening pleasure. defroster will work far better, reducing the chance of You will get the most enjoyment out of it if you acquaint fogging the inside of your windows.
Page 136 yellowblue AM-FM Stereo RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes.
Page 137 yellowblue PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let Setting the Tone you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). Just: knob to increase or decrease bass.
Page 138: Am-Fm Stereo With Cassette Tape Player (If Equipped)
yellowblue AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player RECALL: Press the upper knob briefly to recall the station being played or to display the clock. To change (If Equipped) what is normally shown on the display (station or time), press the knob until you see the display you want, then hold the knob until the display flashes.
Page 139 yellowblue PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let Setting the Tone you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to BASS: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). Just: knob to increase or decrease bass.
Page 140 yellowblue While the tape is playing, use the VOLUME, FADE, If any error occurs repeatedly or if an error can’t be BAL, BASS and TREB controls just as you do for the corrected, please contact your dealer. If your radio radio.
Page 141: Am-Fm Stereo With Cassette Tape Player And Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped)
yellowblue (6): Press this button to reduce background noise. AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape Player The display will show either OFF or ON for a few and Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped) seconds when you press the button. Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Page 142 yellowblue Playing the Radio PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to VOLUME: Press this knob to turn the system on and 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2). Just: off.
Page 143 yellowblue AUTO SET: Press this button and the system will seek Adjusting the Speakers and set the 12 strongest FM or the 6 strongest AM BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the stations on your preset buttons (depending on which knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers.
Page 144 yellowblue If you want to insert a tape when the ignition or radio is PREV (1): Press this button to search for the previous off, first press EJECT or RECALL. Note that the selection on the tape. Your tape must have at least three cassette tape adapter kits for portable compact disc seconds of silence between each selection for PREV to players will work in your cassette tape player.
Page 145 yellowblue (6): Press this button to reduce background noise. AM-FM Stereo with Cassette Tape and The double D symbol will appear on the display. Compact Disc Player with Automatic Tone Control (If Equipped) Dolby Noise Reduction is manufactured under a license from Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation.
Page 146 yellowblue RECALL: Press this button briefly to recall the station PUSHBUTTONS: The six numbered pushbuttons let being played or to display the clock. To change what is you return to your favorite stations. You can set up to normally shown on the display (station or time), press 18 stations (six AM, six FM1 and six FM2).
Page 147 yellowblue AUTO SET: Press this button and the system will seek Adjusting the Speakers and set the 12 strongest FM or the 6 strongest AM BAL: Press this knob lightly so it extends. Turn the stations on your preset buttons. AUTO SET will flash knob to move the sound to the left or right speakers.
Page 148 yellowblue Your tape bias is set automatically. The SEEK down and up arrows will also find the previous and next selections on the tape. If E and a number appear on the radio display, the tape won’t play because of an error. (3): Press this button to reverse the tape rapidly.
Page 149 yellowblue EJECT: The system has two EJECT buttons. Press the If you’re driving on a very rough road or if it’s very hot, button near the CD slot to remove a disc. Press the the disc may not play and an error code may appear on button near the tape slot to remove a tape and the radio the display.
Page 150: Theft-Deterrent Feature (If Equipped)
yellowblue (3): Press and hold this button to quickly reverse If you turn off the ignition or radio with a disc in the within a track. You will hear sound. player, it will stay in the player. When you turn on the ""...
Page 151 yellowblue Activating the Theft Deterrent Feature 8. Press AM FM after you have confirmed that the code matches the secret code you have written down. The instructions which follow explain how to enter your The display will show REP to let you know that you secret code to activate the THEFTLOCK system.
Page 152 yellowblue If you enter the wrong code eight times, INOP will appear 5. Press MIN again to make the last two digits agree on the display. You will have to wait an hour with the with your code. ignition on before you can try again. When you try again, 6.
Page 153: Audio Steering Wheel Controls (If Equipped)
yellowblue Audio Steering Wheel Controls FM: Press this button to choose AM, FM1 or FM2. If a cassette tape or compact disc is playing, press this (If Equipped) button to stop it and the radio will play. If your vehicle has this feature, you can control certain radio functions using the buttons on your steering wheel.
Page 154: Understanding Radio Reception
yellowblue Understanding Radio Reception To help avoid hearing loss or damage: Adjust the volume control to the lowest setting. Increase volume slowly until you hear comfortably The range for most AM stations is greater than for FM, and clearly. especially at night. The longer range, however, can cause stations to interfere with each other.
Page 155: Care Of Your Cassette Tape Player
yellowblue Care of Your Cassette Tape Player When using a scrubbing action, non abrasive cleaning cassette, it is normal for the cassette to eject because A tape player that is not cleaned regularly can cause your unit is equipped with a cut tape detection feature reduced sound quality, ruined cassettes or a damaged and a cleaning cassette may appear as a broken tape.
Page 156: Care Of Your Compact Disc Player
yellowblue Care of Your Compact Discs Backglass Antenna (If Equipped) Handle discs carefully. Store them in their original cases Your AM FM antenna is integrated with your rear or other protective cases and away from direct sunlight window defogger, located in the rear window. Be sure and dust.
Page 157: Diversity Antenna System (If Equipped)
yellowblue If you choose to add a cellular telephone to your vehicle, NOTICE: and the antenna needs to be attached to the glass, be sure that you do not damage the grid lines for the AM antenna. There is enough space between the lines to Do not try to clear frost or other material from attach a cellular telephone antenna without interfering the inside of the rear window with a razor blade...
Page 158 yellowblue NOTES 3-34...
Page 159: Section 4 Your Driving And The Road
yellowblue Section 4 Your Driving and the Road Here you’ll find information about driving on different kinds of roads and in varying weather conditions. We’ve also included many other useful tips on driving. Defensive Driving City Driving Drunken Driving Freeway Driving Control of a Vehicle Before Leaving on a Long Trip Braking...
Page 160: Defensive Driving
yellowblue Defensive driving really means “be ready for anything.” On city streets, rural roads or freeways, it means “always expect the unexpected.” Assume that pedestrians or other drivers are going to be careless and make mistakes. Anticipate what they might do.
Page 161: Drunken Driving
yellowblue Drunken Driving The obvious way to solve the leading highway safety problem is for people never to drink alcohol and then Death and injury associated with drinking and driving is drive. But what if people do? How much is “too much” a national tragedy.
Page 162 yellowblue Since alcohol is carried in body water, this means that a woman generally will reach a higher BAC level than a man of her same body weight when each has the same number of drinks. The law in many U.S. states sets the legal limit at a BAC of 0.10 percent.
Page 163 yellowblue The body takes about an hour to rid itself of the alcohol in one drink. No amount of coffee or number of cold CAUTION: showers will speed that up. “I’ll be careful” isn’t the right answer. What if there’s an emergency, a need to Drinking and then driving is very dangerous.
Page 164: Control Of A Vehicle
yellowblue Control of a Vehicle Braking You have three systems that make your vehicle go where Braking action involves perception time and you want it to go. They are the brakes, the steering and reaction time. the accelerator. All three systems have to do their work First, you have to decide to push on the brake pedal.
Page 165: Anti-Lock Brakes (Abs)
yellowblue Avoid needless heavy braking. Some people drive in Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS) spurts heavy acceleration followed by heavy Your vehicle has anti lock brakes (ABS). ABS is an braking rather than keeping pace with traffic. advanced electronic braking system that will help This is a mistake.
Page 166 yellowblue The anti lock system can change the brake pressure faster than any driver could. The computer is programmed to make the most of available tire and road conditions. Here’s how anti lock works. Let’s say the road is wet. You’re driving safely.
Page 167: Enhanced Traction System
yellowblue Remember: Anti lock doesn’t change the time you need This light will come on to get your foot up to the brake pedal or always decrease when your Enhanced stopping distance. If you get too close to the vehicle in Traction System is limiting front of you, you won’t have time to apply your brakes wheel spin.
Page 168: Braking In Emergencies
yellowblue When the system is on, this You can turn the system back on at any time by shifting warning light will come on to OVERDRIVE ( ) or THIRD (3). The Enhanced to let you know if there’s Traction System warning light should go off. a problem.
Page 169: Steering In Emergencies
yellowblue A lot of the “driver lost control” accidents mentioned on based on good weather and road conditions. Under less the news happen on curves. Here’s why: favorable conditions you’ll want to go slower. Experienced driver or beginner, each of us is subject to the If you need to reduce your speed as you approach a same laws of physics when driving on curves.
Page 170 yellowblue Road Recovery You may find that your right wheels have dropped off the edge of a road onto the shoulder while you’re driving. 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.
Page 171 yellowblue Passing Do not get too close to the vehicle you want to pass while you’re awaiting an opportunity. For one thing, The driver of a vehicle about to pass another on a following too closely reduces your area of vision, lane highway waits for just the right moment, especially if you’re following a larger vehicle.
Page 172: Loss Of Control
yellowblue Check your mirrors, glance over your shoulder, and In any emergency, don’t give up. Keep trying to steer and start your left lane change signal before moving out constantly seek an escape route or area of less danger. of the right lane to pass. When you are far enough Skidding ahead of the passed vehicle to see its front in your inside mirror, activate your right lane change signal...
Page 173: Driving At Night
yellowblue Of course, traction is reduced when water, snow, ice, Driving at Night gravel or other material is on the road. For safety, you’ll want to slow down and adjust your driving to these conditions. It is important to slow down on slippery surfaces because stopping distance will be longer and vehicle control more limited.
Page 174: Night Vision
yellowblue Here are some tips on night driving. driving, don’t wear sunglasses at night. They may cut down on glare from headlamps, but they also make a lot Drive defensively. of things invisible. Don’t drink and drive. You can be temporarily blinded by approaching Adjust your inside rearview mirror to reduce the headlamps.
Page 175: Driving In Rain And On Wet Roads
yellowblue Driving in Rain and on Wet Roads Rain and wet roads can mean driving trouble. On a wet road, you can’t stop, accelerate or turn as well because your tire road traction isn’t as good as on dry roads. And, if your tires don’t have much tread left, you’ll get even less traction.
Page 176 yellowblue CAUTION: Wet brakes can cause accidents. They won’t work as well in a quick stop and may cause pulling to one side. You could lose control of the vehicle. After driving through a large puddle of water or a car wash, apply your brake pedal lightly until your brakes work normally.
Page 177: Driving Through Deep Standing Water
yellowblue Hydroplaning Driving Through Deep Standing Water Hydroplaning is dangerous. So much water can build up under your tires that they can actually ride on the water. NOTICE: This can happen if the road is wet enough and you’re going fast enough. When your vehicle is hydroplaning, If you drive too quickly through deep puddles or it has little or no contact with the road.
Page 178: City Driving
yellowblue City Driving Here are ways to increase your safety in city driving: Know the best way to get to where you are going. Get a city map and plan your trip into an unknown part of the city just as you would for a cross country trip.
Page 179: Freeway Driving
yellowblue Freeway Driving At the entrance, there is usually a ramp that leads to the freeway. If you have a clear view of the freeway as you drive along the entrance ramp, you should begin to check traffic. Try to determine where you expect to blend with the flow.
Page 180: Before Leaving On A Long Trip
Of course, time to avoid a major storm system? you’ll find experienced and able service experts in Buick dealerships all across North America. They’ll be Maps: Do you have up date maps? ready and willing to help if you need it.
Page 181: Highway Hypnosis
yellowblue Highway Hypnosis Hill and Mountain Roads 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 182 yellowblue If you drive regularly in steep country, or if you’re planning to visit there, here are some tips that can make CAUTION: your trips safer and more enjoyable. Keep your vehicle in good shape. Check all fluid Coasting downhill in NEUTRAL (N) or with the levels and also the brakes, tires, cooling system and ignition off is dangerous.
Page 183: Winter Driving
yellowblue Winter Driving 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 Here are some tips for winter driving: couple of reflective warning triangles.
Page 184: Driving On Snow Or Ice
yellowblue Driving on Snow or Ice What’s the worst time for this? “Wet ice.” Very cold snow or ice can be slick and hard to drive on. But wet Most of the time, those places where your tires meet the ice can be even more trouble because it may offer the road probably have good traction.
Page 185: If You're Caught In A Blizzard
yellowblue Your anti lock brakes improve your vehicle’s stability If You’re Caught in a Blizzard when you make a hard stop on a slippery road. Even though you have the anti lock braking system, you’ll want to begin stopping sooner than you would on dry pavement.
Page 186 yellowblue Tie a red cloth to your vehicle to alert police that you’ve been stopped by the snow. CAUTION: Put on extra clothing or wrap a blanket around you. If you have no blankets or extra clothing, make body Snow can trap exhaust gases under your vehicle. insulators from newspapers, burlap bags, rags, floor This can cause deadly CO (carbon monoxide) gas mats...
Page 187: Recreational Vehicle Towing
yellowblue 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.
Page 188: Loading Your Vehicle
yellowblue Loading Your Vehicle The other label is the Certification label, found on the rear edge of the driver’s door. It tells you the gross weight capacity of your vehicle, called the Gross Two labels on your vehicle show how much weight it Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR).
Page 189 yellowblue CAUTION: CAUTION: Do not load your vehicle any heavier than the Things you put inside your vehicle can strike and GVWR, or either the maximum front or rear injure people in a sudden stop or turn, or in GAWR. If you do, parts on your vehicle can a crash.
Page 190: Towing A Trailer
yellowblue Towing 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” CAUTION: that appears later in this section.
Page 191: If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer
yellowblue If You Do Decide To Pull A Trailer Three important considerations have to do with weight: the weight of the trailer, If you do, here are some important points: the weight of the trailer tongue There are many different laws, including speed limit restrictions, having to do with trailering.
Page 192: Weight Of The Trailer Tongue
You can ask your dealer for our trailering information or advice, or you can write us at: Buick Customer Relations Center P.O. Box 5039 Troy, MI 48007 5039 In Canada, write to: General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre...
Page 193: Safety Chains
yellowblue Total Weight on Your Vehicle’s Tires Safety Chains Be sure your vehicle’s tires are inflated to the upper You should always attach chains between your vehicle limit for cold tires. You’ll find these numbers on the and your trailer. Cross the safety chains under the tongue Tire Loading Information label (found inside the trunk of the trailer so that the tongue will not drop to the road...
Page 194: Following Distance
yellowblue Before you start, check the trailer hitch and platform Backing Up (and attachments), safety chains, electrical connector, Hold the bottom of the steering wheel with one hand. lamps, tires and mirror adjustment. If the trailer has Then, to move the trailer to the left, just move that hand electric brakes, start your vehicle and trailer moving and to the left.
Page 195: Turn Signals When Towing A Trailer
yellowblue Turn Signals When Towing a Trailer Parking on Hills When you tow a trailer, your vehicle may need a different turn signal flasher and/or extra wiring. Check with your CAUTION: dealer. The arrows on your instrument panel will flash whenever you signal a turn or lane change.
Page 196: When You Are Ready To Leave After Parking On A Hill
yellowblue When You Are Ready to Leave After Maintenance When Trailer Towing Parking on a Hill Your vehicle will need service more often when you’re pulling a trailer. See the Maintenance Schedule for more 1. Apply your regular brakes and hold the pedal down on this.
Page 197: Section 5 Problems On The Road
yellowblue Section 5 Problems on the Road Here you’ll find what to do about some problems that can occur on the road. Hazard Warning Flashers Cooling System Other Warning Devices If a Tire Goes Flat Jump Starting Changing a Flat Tire Towing Your Vehicle Compact Spare Tire Engine Overheating...
Page 198: Hazard Warning Flashers
yellowblue Hazard Warning Flashers Press the switch on top of the steering column to make your front and rear turn signal lamps flash on and off. Your hazard warning flashers work no matter what position your key is in; they even work if the key isn’t in the ignition.
Page 199: Jump Starting
yellowblue Jump Starting NOTICE: If your battery has run down, you may want to use another vehicle and some jumper cables to start your Ignoring these steps could result in costly damage vehicle. But please follow the steps below to do it safely. to your vehicle that wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Page 200 yellowblue 2. Get the vehicles close enough so the jumper cables NOTICE: can reach, but be sure the vehicles aren’t touching each other. If they are, it could cause a ground connection you don’t want. You wouldn’t be able to If you leave your radio on, it could be badly start your vehicle, and the bad grounding could damaged.
Page 201 yellowblue CAUTION: Using a match near a battery can cause battery gas to explode. People have been hurt doing this, and some have been blinded. Use a flashlight if you need more light. Be sure the battery has enough water. You don’t need to add water to the ACDelco Freedom battery installed in every new GM vehicle.
Page 202 yellowblue 6. Check that the jumper cables don’t have loose or 7. Connect the red missing insulation. If they do, you could get a shock. positive (+) cable to the The vehicles could be damaged too. positive (+) terminal of the vehicle with the dead Before you connect the cables, here are some basic battery.
Page 203 yellowblue 9. Now connect the black 13. Remove the cables in reverse order to prevent negative ( ) cable to the electrical shorting. Take care that they don’t touch good battery’s each other or any other metal. negative ( ) terminal. 14.
Page 204: Towing Your Vehicle
yellowblue Towing Your Vehicle NOTICE: CAUTION: Use the proper towing equipment to avoid damage to the bumper, fascia or fog lamp areas of the vehicle. To help avoid serious personal injury to you or others: With current trends in automotive styles and design, it is Never let passengers ride in a vehicle that is essential that the correct towing equipment is used to tow a being towed.
Page 205: Engine Overheating
yellowblue Engine Overheating NOTICE: You will find a coolant temperature gage and a hot engine warning light on your instrument panel. See After driving in the overheated engine protection “Engine Coolant Temperature Gage” and “Engine operating mode, to avoid engine damage, allow Coolant Temperature Warning Light”...
Page 206: If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
yellowblue If Steam Is Coming From Your Engine 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. Just turn it off and get everyone away from the vehicle until it cools down.
Page 207: If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine
yellowblue If No Steam Is Coming From Your Engine If you no longer have the overheat warning, you can drive. Just to be safe, drive slower for about 10 minutes. If you get an engine overheat warning but see or hear no If the warning doesn’t come back on, you can steam, the problem may not be too serious.
Page 208: Cooling System
yellowblue Cooling System CAUTION: When you decide it’s safe to lift the hood, here’s what you’ll see: An electric engine cooling fan under the hood can start up even when the engine is not running and can injure you. Keep hands, clothing and tools away from any underhood electric fan.
Page 209 yellowblue The coolant level should be at or above CAUTION: the COLD mark on the coolant recovery tank. Heater and radiator hoses, and other engine If it isn’t, you may parts, can be very hot. Don’t touch them. If you have a leak in the do, you can be burned.
Page 210 yellowblue How to Add Coolant to the Coolant NOTICE: Recovery Tank If you haven’t found a problem yet, but the coolant level When adding coolant, it is important that you use isn’t at the COLD mark, add a 50/50 mixture of clean, only DEX COOL (silicate...
Page 211 yellowblue NOTICE: CAUTION: In cold weather, water can freeze and crack the You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot engine, radiator, heater core and other parts. engine parts. Coolant contains ethylene glycol Use the recommended coolant and the proper and it will burn if the engine parts are hot coolant mixture.
Page 212 yellowblue CAUTION: Steam and scalding liquids from a hot cooling system can blow out and burn you badly. They are under pressure, and if you turn the radiator pressure cap even a little they can come out at high speed. Never turn the cap when the cooling system, including the radiator pressure cap, is hot.
Page 213: How To Add Coolant To The Radiator
yellowblue How to Add Coolant to the Radiator 2. Then keep turning the pressure cap, but now push down as you turn NOTICE: it. Remove the pressure cap. Your engine has a specific radiator fill procedure. Failure to follow this procedure could cause your engine to overheat and be severely damaged.
Page 214 yellowblue 4. Fill the radiator with the proper DEX COOL coolant mixture, up to the base of the filler neck. (See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for more information about the proper coolant mixture.) 3. After the engine cools, open the coolant air bleed valves.
Page 215 yellowblue 6. Then fill the coolant recovery tank to the COLD 8. Start the engine and let it run until you can feel the mark on the coolant recovery tank. upper radiator hose getting hot. Watch out for the engine cooling fans. 7.
Page 216: If A Tire Goes Flat
yellowblue If a Tire Goes Flat It’s unusual for a tire to “blow out” 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 217: Changing A Flat Tire
yellowblue 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 218: Removing The Spare Tire And Tools
yellowblue Removing the Spare Tire and Tools (See “Compact Spare Tire” in the Index for more information about the compact spare.) 1. The equipment you’ll need is in the trunk. Pull the carpeted mat up from the floor of the trunk.
Page 219 yellowblue 3. Turn the nut holding the jack counterclockwise and The tools you’ll be using include the jack (A), extension remove it. Then remove the jack and wrench. and protection guide (B) and wheel wrench (C). 5-23...
Page 220: Wheel Center Caps
yellowblue Wheel Center Caps Wheel Covers To remove a center cap, use If your vehicle is equipped the wrench to pry gently at with wheel covers, be sure the notch. Don’t use a tool to use a wheel wrench to that is narrower than the begin the process of wrench to pry at this notch.
Page 221: Removing The Flat Tire And Installing The Spare Tire
yellowblue Removing the Flat Tire and Installing the CAUTION: Spare Tire 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...
Page 222 yellowblue 3. For jacking at the vehicle’s front location, put the 4. For jacking at the vehicle’s rear location, put the jack jack lift head about 6 inches (15 cm) from the rear lift head about 5 inches (13 cm) from the front edge edge of the front wheel opening or just behind the of the rear wheel opening or just behind the off two bolts as shown.
Page 223 yellowblue 7. Remove any rust or dirt from the wheel bolts, mounting surfaces and spare wheel. 8. Install the spare tire. CAUTION: Rust or dirt on the wheel, or on the parts to which it is fastened, can make the wheel nuts 5.
Page 224 yellowblue CAUTION: Never use oil or grease on studs or nuts. If you do, the nuts might come loose. Your wheel could fall off, causing a serious accident. 9. Replace the wheel nuts with the rounded end of the nuts toward the wheel.
Page 225 yellowblue 11. Tighten the wheel nuts NOTICE: firmly in a crisscross sequence as shown. Improperly tightened wheel nuts can lead to brake pulsation and rotor damage. To avoid expensive brake repairs, evenly tighten the wheel nuts in the proper sequence and to the proper torque specification.
Page 226: Storing The Flat Tire And Tools
yellowblue 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.
Page 227: Storing The Spare Tire And Tools
yellowblue Storing the Spare Tire and Tools 1. Retainer 2. Cover 3. Retainer (full size tire) CAUTION: 4. Compact Spare Tire Storing a jack, a tire or other equipment in the 5. Nut passenger compartment of the vehicle could 6. Jack cause injury.
Page 228: Compact Spare Tire
yellowblue Compact Spare Tire NOTICE: Although the compact spare tire was fully inflated when your vehicle was new, it can lose air after a time. When the compact spare is installed, don’t take Check the inflation pressure regularly. It should be your vehicle through an automatic car wash with 60 psi (420 kPa).
Page 229: If You're Stuck: In Sand, Mud, Ice Or Snow
yellowblue If You’re Stuck: In Sand, Mud, NOTICE: Ice or Snow In order to free your vehicle when it is stuck, you will Spinning your wheels can destroy parts of your need to spin the wheels, but you don’t want to spin your vehicle as well as the tires.
Page 230 yellowblue NOTES 5-34...
Page 231: Section 6 Service And Appearance Care
yellowblue Section 6 Service and Appearance Care Here you will find information about the care of your vehicle. This section begins with service and fuel information, and then it shows how to check important fluid and lubricant levels. There is also technical information about your vehicle, and a part devoted to its appearance care.
Page 232: Doing Your Own Service Work
yellowblue Service Doing Your Own Service Work If you want to do some of your own service work, you’ll Your dealer knows your vehicle best and wants you to want to use the proper service manual. It tells you much be happy with it.
Page 233: Adding Equipment To The Outside Of Your Vehicle
yellowblue Fuel CAUTION: Use regular unleaded gasoline rated at 87 octane or higher. It is recommended that the gasoline meet specifications which have been developed by the American Automobile You can be injured and your vehicle could be Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and endorsed by the damaged if you try to do service work on a Canadian Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association for vehicle without knowing enough about it.
Page 234 Indicator Lamp” in the Index.) If this occurs, return to the specifications described earlier. your authorized Buick dealer for diagnosis to determine the cause of failure. In the event it is determined that the NOTICE: cause of the condition is the type of fuels used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.
Page 235: Fuels In Foreign Countries
yellowblue Fuels in Foreign Countries Filling Your Tank If you plan on driving in another country outside the United States or Canada, the proper fuel may be hard to find. Never use leaded gasoline or any other fuel not recommended in the previous text on fuel. Costly repairs caused by use of improper fuel wouldn’t be covered by your warranty.
Page 236 yellowblue The tethered cap is behind a hinged door on the driver’s side of your vehicle. CAUTION: If you get gasoline on yourself and then something ignites it, you could be badly burned. Gasoline can spray out on you if you open the fuel filler cap too quickly.
Page 237: Filling A Portable Fuel Container
yellowblue Filling a Portable Fuel Container NOTICE: CAUTION: If you need a new cap, be sure to get the right type. Your dealer can get one for you. If you get the wrong type, it may not fit properly. This may Never fill a portable fuel container while it is in cause your malfunction indicator lamp to light your vehicle.
Page 238: Checking Things Under The Hood
yellowblue Checking Things Under the Hood CAUTION: CAUTION: Things that burn can get on hot engine parts and start a fire. These include liquids like gasoline, An electric fan under the hood can start up and oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer and injure you even when the engine is not running.
Page 239: Hood Release
yellowblue Hood Release To open the hood, first pull the handle inside the vehicle, located just below the instrument panel and to the left of the steering column. Then go to the front of the vehicle and release the secondary hood release. Lift the hood.
Page 240 yellowblue When you open the hood, you’ll see: A. Windshield Washer Fluid Reservoir G. Engine Oil Fill Cap B. Battery H. Engine Oil Dipstick C. Radiator Fill Cap I. Automatic Transaxle Fluid Dipstick D. Remote Positive (+) Battery Terminal J. Brake Fluid Reservoir E.
Page 241: Engine Oil
yellowblue Before closing the hood, be sure all the filler caps are on properly. Then just pull the hood down and close it firmly. Engine Oil If the LOW OIL light on the instrument panel comes on, it means you need to check your engine oil level right away.
Page 242: Checking Engine Oil
yellowblue Checking Engine Oil When to Add Engine Oil Pull out the dipstick and clean it with a paper towel or If the oil is at or below the ADD mark, then you’ll need cloth, then push it back in all the way. Remove it again, to add at least one quart of oil.
Page 243: What Kind Of Engine Oil To Use
yellowblue What Kind of Engine Oil to Use Oils recommended for your vehicle can be identified by looking for the “Starburst” symbol. This symbol indicates that the oil has been certified by the American Petroleum Institute (API). Do not use any oil which does not carry this Starburst symbol.
Page 244 yellowblue As shown in the chart, SAE 5W 30 is best for your vehicle. However, you can use SAE 10W 30 if it’s going to be 0 C) or above. These numbers on an oil container show its viscosity, or thickness. Do not use other viscosity oils, such as SAE 20W NOTICE: Use only engine oil with the American Petroleum...
Page 245: Engine Oil Additives
yellowblue Engine Oil Additives How to Reset the Oil Life Monitor After changing the engine oil, the system must be reset. Don’t add anything to your oil. Your dealer is ready to With the ignition key in RUN but the engine off, fully advise if you think something should be added.
Page 246: Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
yellowblue Engine Air Cleaner/Filter CAUTION: The engine air cleaner/filter is located underneath a Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter diagonal brace on the off can cause you or others to be burned. The air driver’s side of the engine. cleaner not only cleans the air, it stops flame if To check or replace the air filter:...
Page 247: Passenger Compartment Air Filter
yellowblue Passenger Compartment Air Filter 2. Raise the hood. 3. Remove (disconnect) the windshield washer pump The passenger compartment hose from the fender rail and air inlet grille. air filter is located 4. Reposition the hood weatherstrip from the underneath your hood just passenger’s side of the vehicle (peel back halfway to below the windshield wiper center).
Page 248: Automatic Transaxle Fluid
yellowblue Automatic Transaxle Fluid How to Check Because this operation can be a little difficult, you When to Check and Change may choose to have this done at the dealership A good time to check your automatic transaxle fluid service department. level is when the engine oil is changed.
Page 249 yellowblue Wait at least 30 minutes before checking the transaxle Then, without shutting off the engine, follow these steps: fluid level if you have been driving: When outside temperatures are above 90 F (32 At high speed for quite a while. In heavy traffic especially in hot weather.
Page 250: How To Add Fluid
yellowblue 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. 1. Pull out the dipstick. 2. Using a long neck funnel, add enough fluid at the dipstick hole to bring it to the proper level.
Page 251: Radiator Pressure Cap
yellowblue Radiator Pressure Cap Engine Coolant The cooling system in your vehicle is filled with COOL engine coolant. This coolant is designed NOTICE: to remain in your vehicle for 5 years or 150,000 miles (240 000 km), whichever occurs first, if you add only Your radiator cap is a 15 psi (105 kPa) COOL extended life coolant.
Page 252: What To Use
yellowblue What to Use NOTICE: Use a mixture of one half clean, drinkable water and half DEX COOL coolant which won’t damage When adding coolant, it is important that you use aluminum parts. If you use this coolant mixture, you only DEX COOL (silicate...
Page 253: Checking Coolant
yellowblue Checking Coolant NOTICE: The vehicle must be on a level surface. When your If you use an improper coolant mixture, your engine is cold, the coolant engine could overheat and be badly damaged. level should be at the The repair cost wouldn’t be covered by your COLD mark or a little warranty.
Page 254: Power Steering Fluid
yellowblue Adding Coolant CAUTION: If you need more coolant, add the proper DEX COOL coolant mixture at the coolant recovery tank, but be careful not to spill it. You can be burned if you spill coolant on hot If the coolant recovery tank is completely empty, add engine parts.
Page 255: When To Check Power Steering Fluid
yellowblue When to Check Power Steering Fluid What to Use It is not necessary to regularly check power steering To determine what kind of fluid to use, see fluid unless you suspect there is a leak in the system or “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants”...
Page 256: Windshield Washer Fluid
yellowblue Windshield Washer Fluid Open the cap labeled WASHER FLUID ONLY. Add washer fluid until the tank is full. What to Use When you need windshield washer fluid, be sure to read NOTICE: the manufacturer’s instructions before use. If you will be operating your vehicle in an area where the temperature When using concentrated washer fluid, may fall below freezing, use a fluid that has sufficient...
Page 257: Brake Fluid
yellowblue Brakes of the brake system. If it is, you should have your brake system fixed, since a leak means that sooner or later your Brake Fluid brakes won’t work well, or won’t work at all. So, it isn’t a good idea to “top off” your brake fluid. Adding brake fluid won’t correct a leak.
Page 258 yellowblue What to Add NOTICE: When you do need brake fluid, use only DOT 3 brake fluid. Use new brake fluid from a sealed container only. Using the wrong fluid can badly damage Refer to “Recommended Fluids and Lubricants” in the Maintenance Schedule.
Page 259: Brake Wear
yellowblue Brake Wear Some driving conditions or climates may cause a brake squeal when the brakes are first applied or lightly Your vehicle has front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. applied. This does not mean something is wrong with your brakes.
Page 260: Replacing Brake System Parts
yellowblue Replacing Brake System Parts Vehicle Storage The braking system on a vehicle is complex. Its many If you’re not going to drive your vehicle for 25 days parts have to be of top quality and work well together if or more, remove the black, negative ( ) cable from the the vehicle is to have really good braking.
Page 261: Bulb Replacement
yellowblue Bulb Replacement Headlamps In this section you’ll find directions for changing the bulbs on your vehicle. See “Replacement Bulbs” in the Index to find the type of bulb you should use. For any bulb changing procedure not listed in this section, contact your dealer service department.
Page 262 yellowblue 8. Connect the new headlamp bulb to the wiring harness, making sure the connector tab snaps into place. 9. Insert the bulb socket into the headlamp assembly. 10. Reverse all steps and reassemble the headlamp assembly, then check the lamps. Headlamp Aiming Your vehicle has a headlamp system equipped with horizontal and vertical aim indicators.
Page 263 yellowblue NOTICE: To make sure your headlamps are aimed properly, read all the instructions before beginning. Failure to follow these instructions could cause damage to headlamp parts. The vehicle should be properly prepared as follows: The vehicle must have all four tires on a perfectly level surface.
Page 264 yellowblue Once the horizontal aim is adjusted, then adjust the vertical aim. 1. Turn the horizontal aiming screw until the indicator is lined up with zero. 2. Turn the vertical aiming screw until the level bubble is lined up with zero. Front Parking and Turn Signal Lamp 1.
Page 265: Center High-Mounted Stoplamp
yellowblue Center High-Mounted Stoplamp 1. Open the trunk. 3. Remove the bulb by turning it one quarter of a turn counterclockwise. 4. Place the new bulb into the bulb socket. 2. Reach through the access opening in the trunk. 5. Turn the bulb one quarter of a turn clockwise to replace.
Page 266 yellowblue Tail/Stop/Turn Signal Lamp 1. Remove the plastic wing nuts (A). (Pliers may be required to remove the wing nuts.) 2. Pull the taillamp housing (B) away from the body of the vehicle. 3. Squeeze the tab on the socket and turn the socket counterclockwise.
Page 267 yellowblue Trunk Lid Applique 1. Open the trunk lid halfway. 2. Remove the wing nuts (A) from the studs on the applique. (There are eight wing nuts. Pliers may be required to remove them.) 3. Remove the applique from the trunk lid. 4.
Page 268: Back-Up Lamp
yellowblue Back-Up Lamp Dome Lamp (If Equipped) The back up lamps are located in the trunk lid applique. 1. Grasp the front center and rear center positions of the (Refer to the trunk lid applique removal procedure earlier dome lamp housing and squeeze together until the in this section for graphic and further instructions.) housing releases from the base plate.
Page 269: Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement
yellowblue Windshield Wiper Blade Replacement Windshield wiper blades should be inspected at least twice a year for wear or cracking. See “Wiper Blade Check” in Section 7 of this manual under Part B “Owner Checks and Services” for more information. 1.
Page 270 If you ever have questions about your tire warranty and where to obtain service, see Poorly maintained and improperly used tires your Buick Warranty booklet for details. are dangerous. Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction.
Page 271: Inflation -- Tire Pressure
yellowblue Inflation -- Tire Pressure NOTICE: (Continued) The Tire Loading Information label, which is on the inside of the trunk lid, shows the correct inflation If your tires have too much air (overinflation), pressures for your tires when they’re cold. “Cold” you can get the following: means your vehicle has been sitting for at least Unusual wear...
Page 272 yellowblue Low Tire Inflation Monitor System When the LOW TIRE light comes on, you should stop as soon as you can and check all your tires for damage. (If Equipped) (If a tire is flat, see “If a Tire Goes Flat” in the Index.) The low tire inflation monitor system can alert you to a Also check the tire pressure in all four tires as soon as large change in the pressure of one tire.
Page 273: Tire Inspection And Rotation
yellowblue The system normally takes 15 to 20 minutes of driving The red RESET in each of three speed ranges to “learn” tire pressures. button is located inside The speed ranges are 15 to 40 mph (25 to 65 km/h), your instrument panel 40 to 65 mph (65 to 105 km/h) and above 65 mph fuse block.
Page 274 yellowblue 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. The wheel could come off and cause an accident. When you change a wheel, remove any rust or dirt from places where the wheel attaches to the vehicle.
Page 275 yellowblue When It’s Time for New Tires You need a new tire if any of the following statements are true: One way to tell when it’s You can see the indicators at three or more places time for new tires is to around the tire.
Page 276: Buying New Tires
yellowblue Buying New Tires CAUTION: To find out what kind and size of tires you need, look at the Tire Loading Information label. Mixing tires could cause you to lose control while The tires installed on your vehicle when it was new had driving.
Page 277: Uniform Tire Quality Grading
yellowblue Uniform Tire Quality Grading may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in The following information relates to the system road characteristics and climate. developed by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades tires by Traction AA, A, B, C...
Page 278: Wheel Alignment And Tire Balance
yellowblue Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance If the wheel leaks air, replace it (except some aluminum on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required wheels, which can sometimes be repaired). See your by law. dealer if any of these conditions exist. Warning: The temperature grade for this tire is Your dealer will know the kind of wheel you need.
Page 279: Tire Chains
yellowblue Tire Chains NOTICE: NOTICE: The wrong wheel can also cause problems with bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer or Use tire chains only where legal and only when odometer calibration, headlamp aim, bumper you must. Use only SAE Class “S” type chains height, vehicle ground clearance and tire or tire that are the proper size for your tires.
Page 280: Appearance Care
yellowblue Appearance Care Don’t use any of these unless this manual says you can. In many uses, these will damage your vehicle: Remember, cleaning products can be hazardous. Some Alcohol are toxic. Others can burst into flame if you strike a match or get them on a hot part of the vehicle.
Page 281: Special Fabric Cleaning Problems
yellowblue Use a clean cloth or sponge, and change to a Special Fabric Cleaning Problems clean area often. A soft brush may be used if Stains caused by such things as catsup, coffee (black), stains are stubborn. egg, fruit, fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, vomit, urine and If a ring forms on fabric after spot cleaning, clean the blood can be removed as follows: entire area immediately or it will set.
Page 282: Care Of Safety Belts
yellowblue Cleaning Vinyl Cleaning the Top of the Instrument Panel Use warm water and a clean cloth. Use only mild soap and water to clean the top surfaces of the instrument panel. Sprays containing silicones or Rub with a clean, damp cloth to remove dirt. You waxes may cause annoying reflections in the windshield may have to do it more than once.
Page 283: Cleaning Glass Surfaces
yellowblue Cleaning Glass Surfaces Grime from the windshield will stick to the wiper blades and affect their performance. Clean the blade by wiping Glass should be cleaned often. GM Glass Cleaner or a vigorously with a cloth soaked in full strength liquid household glass cleaner will remove normal windshield washer solvent.
Page 284: Finish Care
yellowblue Don’t wash your vehicle in the direct rays of the sun. Your vehicle has a “basecoat/clearcoat” paint finish. Use a car washing soap. Don’t use strong soaps or The clearcoat gives more depth and gloss to the colored chemical detergents. Be sure to rinse the vehicle well, basecoat.
Page 285: Cleaning Aluminum Wheels (If Equipped)
yellowblue Cleaning Aluminum Wheels Cleaning Tires (If Equipped) To clean your tires, use a stiff brush with a tire cleaner. Keep your wheels clean using a soft clean cloth with mild soap and water. Rinse with clean water. After NOTICE: rinsing thoroughly, dry with a soft clean towel.
Page 286: Finish Damage
(rust) can occur on the underbody parts such as fuel lines, frame, floor Although no defect in the paint job causes this, Buick pan and exhaust system even though they have will repair, at no charge to the owner, the surfaces of corrosion protection.
Page 287: Gm Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials
yellowblue GM Vehicle Care/Appearance Materials PART NUMBER SIZE DESCRIPTION USAGE 994954 23 in. x 25 in. Polishing Cloth – Wax Treated Exterior polishing cloth 1050172 16 oz. (0.473 L) Tar and Road Oil Remover Removes tar, road oil and asphalt 1050173 16 oz.
Page 288: Vehicle Identification Number (Vin)
yellowblue Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) the model designation, paint information and a list of all production options and special equipment. Be sure that this label is not removed from the vehicle. Electrical System Add-On Electrical Equipment This is the legal identifier for your vehicle. It appears on a plate in the front corner of the instrument panel, on the NOTICE: driver’s side.
Page 289: Headlamp Wiring
yellowblue Headlamp Wiring Look at the silver colored band inside the fuse. If the band is broken or melted, replace the fuse. Be sure you The headlamp wiring is protected by a circuit breaker in replace a bad fuse with a new one of the identical size the underhood electrical center.
Page 290 yellowblue Fuse Description Not Used Ignition Signal Hot in Run and Start PCM, BCM U/H Relay Remote Radio Premium Sound Power Mirrors Panel Dimming Ignition Signal Hot in Run, Unlock and Start Cluster, Powertrain Control Module, Body Control Module DRL Module Interior Lamps Door Locks Taillamps, License Lamp...
Page 291 yellowblue Fuse Description Fuse Description Stoplamps Ignition Signal Hot in ACC and Body Control Module Parking Lamps Low Blower Auxiliary Power Connection Anti Lock Brakes (Power Drop) Hot in ACC and Run Crank Signal Body Control Module, Turn Signals Cluster, Powertrain Control Modules Radio, HVAC Head, Remote Keyless Ignition Signal HVAC Control Head...
Page 292 yellowblue Underhood Electrical Center Passenger’s Side Fuse Description Some fuses and relays are located in the underhood electrical center on the passenger’s side of the Starter Solenoid engine compartment. Power Seats, Rear Defog High Blower, Hazard Flasher, Stoplamps, Power Mirror, Door Locks Ignition Switch, BTSI, Stoplamps, ABS, Turn Signals, Cluster, Air Bag, DRL Module...
Page 293 yellowblue Relay Description Fuse Description Cooling Fan 2 Horn Cooling Fan 3 Fuel Injector Starter Solenoid Oxygen Sensor Cooling Fan 1 Engine Emissions Ignition Main Not Used Not Used Headlamp (Right) A/C Clutch Rear Compartment Release Horn Parking Lamps Not Used Fuel Pump Not Used Headlamp (Left)
Page 294: Replacement Bulbs
yellowblue Replacement Bulbs Capacities and Specifications 4T60E: Exterior Lamps Bulb Number Automatic Transaxle Back ......1156 Pan Removal and Replacement .
Page 295: Air Conditioning Refrigerants
yellowblue Engine Specifications PCV Valve ....AC Type CV892C Radiator Cap ....AC Type RC27 Type .
Page 296 yellowblue NOTES 6-66...
Page 297: Section 7 Maintenance Schedule
yellowblue Section 7 Maintenance Schedule This section covers the maintenance required for your vehicle. Your vehicle needs these services to retain its safety, dependability and emission control performance. Introduction Part C: Periodic Maintenance Inspections Part A: Scheduled Maintenance Services Part D: Recommended Fluids and Lubricants Scheduled Maintenance Part E: Maintenance Record Part B: Owner Checks and Services...
Page 298: Your Vehicle And The Environment
yellowblue Introduction Your Vehicle and the Environment Proper vehicle maintenance not only helps to keep your vehicle in good working condition, but also helps the environment. All recommended maintenance procedures are important. Improper vehicle maintenance can even affect the quality of the air we breathe. Improper fluid levels or the wrong tire inflation can increase the level of emissions from your vehicle.
Page 299: How This Section Is Organized
yellowblue How This Section is Organized “Part B: Owner Checks and Services” tells you what should be checked and when. It also explains what This maintenance schedule is divided into five parts: you can easily do to help keep your vehicle in good condition.
Page 300: Using Your Maintenance Schedule
yellowblue Part A: Scheduled Maintenance This part tells you the maintenance services you should have done and when you should schedule them. If you Services go to your dealer for your service needs, you’ll know that GM trained and supported service people will Using Your Maintenance Schedule perform the work using genuine GM parts.
Page 301: Scheduled Maintenance
yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance The services shown in this schedule up to 100,000 miles * Your vehicle has an Engine Oil Life Monitor. This (166 000 km) should be performed after 100,000 miles monitor will show you when to change the engine oil (166 000 km) at the same intervals.
Page 302 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance 7,500 Miles (12 500 km) DATE Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 303 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 30,000 Miles (50 000 km) DATE Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE...
Page 304 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance 45,000 Miles (75 000 km) DATE Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Inspect air cleaner filter if you are driving in dusty conditions. Replace filter if necessary.
Page 305 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance 52,500 Miles (87 500 km) DATE Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 306 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance 67,500 Miles (112 500 km) DATE Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE See “Engine Oil” in the Index. An Emission Control Service. (See footnote *.) Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information.
Page 307 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance Rotate tires. See “Tire Inspection and Rotation” in the Index for proper rotation pattern and additional information. (See footnote +.) 90,000 Miles (150 000 km) DATE Check Oil Life Monitor. If engine oil and filter are changed, reset monitor. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE...
Page 308 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance 100,000 Miles (166 000 km) DATE j Inspect spark plug wires. ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE An Emission Control Service. j Replace spark plugs. An Emission Control Service. j Change automatic transaxle fluid and filter if the vehicle is mainly driven under one or more of these conditions: –...
Page 309 yellowblue Scheduled Maintenance 150,000 Miles (240 000 km) DATE Drain, flush and refill cooling system (or every 60 months since last service, ACTUAL SERVICED BY: MILEAGE whichever occurs first). See “Engine Coolant” in the Index for what to use. Inspect hoses. Clean radiator, condenser, pressure cap and neck. Pressure test the cooling system and pressure cap.
Page 310: At Each Fuel Fill
yellowblue Part B: Owner Checks and Services Engine Coolant Level Check Check the engine coolant level and add DEX COOL Listed in this part are owner checks and services which coolant mixture if necessary. See “Engine Coolant” in should be performed at the intervals specified to help the Index for further details.
Page 311: At Least Twice A Year
yellowblue At Least Twice a Year Automatic Transaxle Check Check the transaxle fluid level; add if needed. See Restraint System Check “Automatic Transaxle Fluid” in the Index. A fluid loss Make sure the safety belt reminder light and all your may indicate a problem.
Page 312 yellowblue Starter Switch Check Brake Transaxle Shift Interlock (BTSI) Check CAUTION: CAUTION: When you are doing this check, the vehicle could When you are doing this check, the vehicle could move suddenly. If it does, you or others could be move suddenly.
Page 313 yellowblue Ignition Transaxle Lock Check Park on a fairly steep hill, with the vehicle facing downhill. Keeping your foot on the regular brake, set the While parked, and with the parking brake set, try to turn parking brake. the ignition key to LOCK in each shift lever position. To check the parking brake’s holding ability: With The key should turn to LOCK only when the shift the engine running and transaxle in NEUTRAL (N),...
Page 314: Exhaust System Inspection
yellowblue Part C: Periodic Maintenance Exhaust System Inspection Inspections Inspect the complete exhaust system. Inspect the body near the exhaust system. Look for broken, damaged, Listed in this part are inspections and services which missing or out position parts as well as open seams, should be performed at least twice a year (for instance, holes, loose connections or other conditions which could each spring and fall).
Page 315: Throttle System Inspection
yellowblue Throttle System Inspection Brake System Inspection Inspect the throttle system for interference or binding, Inspect the complete system. Inspect brake lines and and for damaged or missing parts. Replace parts as hoses for proper hook up, binding, leaks, cracks, needed.
Page 316 yellowblue Part D: Recommended Fluids USAGE FLUID/LUBRICANT and Lubricants Windshield GM Optikleen Washer Solvent Washer Solvent (GM Part No. 1051515) NOTE: Fluids and lubricants identified below by name, or equivalent. part number or specification may be obtained from your dealer. Power Steering GM Power Steering Fluid (GM System...
Page 317: Maintenance Record
yellowblue Part E: Maintenance Record Any additional information from “Owner Checks and Services” or “Periodic Maintenance” can be added on After the scheduled services are performed, record the the following record pages. Also, you should retain all date, odometer reading and who performed the service maintenance receipts.
Page 318 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-22...
Page 319 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-23...
Page 320 yellowblue Maintenance Record ODOMETER DATE SERVICED BY MAINTENANCE PERFORMED READING 7-24...
Page 321: Section 8 Customer Assistance Information
Section 8 Customer Assistance Information Here you will find out how to contact Buick if you need assistance. This section also tells you how to obtain service publications and how to report any safety defects. Customer Satisfaction Procedure Warranty Information...
Page 322: Customer Satisfaction Procedure
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 323 STEP TWO -- If after contacting a member of When contacting Buick, please remember that your dealership management, it appears your concern cannot be concern will likely be resolved at a dealer’s facility. That resolved by the dealership without further help, contact...
Page 324: Customer Assistance For Text Telephone (Tty) Users
Buick encourages customers to call the toll-free number number or write them at the following address: for assistance. If a U.S. customer wishes to write to Buick, BBB Auto Line the letter should be addressed to Buick’s Customer Council of Better Business Bureaus, Inc.
Page 325: All Overseas Locations
yellowblue Canada If toll free service is not available in the Caribbean, call Puerto Rico 1-787-763-1315. General Motors of Canada Limited Customer Communication Centre, 163-005 GM Mobility Program for Persons 1908 Colonel Sam Drive with Disabilities Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8P7 This program, available to 1-800-263-3777 (English) qualified applicants, can...
Page 326: Canadian Roadside Assistance
Takes the anxiety out of uncertain situations by providing easy access to service professionals trained to work with Buick owners, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including weekends and holidays. For details on Buick Premium Roadside Assistance, please consult your Buick Premium Roadside Assistance owner booklet included with your owner’s manual.
Page 327: Courtesy Transportation
Courtesy Transportation, a customer Warranty service can generally be completed while you support program for new vehicles. wait. However, if you are unable to wait Buick helps The Courtesy Transportation program is offered to retail minimize your inconvenience by providing several purchase/lease customers in conjunction with the transportation options.
Page 328: Additional Program Information
yellowblue Courtesy Rental Vehicle Please contact your dealer for specific information about availability. All Courtesy Transportation arrangements When your vehicle is unavailable due to overnight will be administered by appropriate dealer personnel. warranty repairs, your dealer may arrange to provide you with a courtesy rental vehicle or reimburse you for a rental Canadian Vehicles: For warranty repairs during the vehicle you obtained, at actual cost, up to a maximum of...
Page 329: Reporting Safety Defects To The United States Government
yellowblue REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS TO THE UNITED STATES TO THE CANADIAN GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could If you live in Canada, and you believe that your vehicle cause a crash or could cause injury or death, you should has a safety defect, you should immediately notify immediately inform the National Highway Traffic Transport Canada, in addition to notifying General...
Page 330: Reporting Safety Defects To General Motors
Please call us at 1 7300, or write: past model General Motors vehicles. Buick Customer Relations Center The toll-free telephone number for ordering information P.O. Box 5039 in Canada is 1-800-668-5539.
Page 331 1999 BUICK SERVICE PUBLICATIONS ORDERING INFORMATION The following publications covering the operation and servicing of your vehicle can be purchased by filling out the Service Publication Order Form in this book and mailing it in with your check, money order, or credit card information to Helm, Incorporated (address below.)
Page 332 yellowblue ORDER TOLL FREE Orders will be mailed within 10 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for postal service. If further information is needed, write to the address shown below or call (NOTE: For Credit Card Holders Only) 1-800-551-4123. Material cannot be returned for credit without packing slip with return 1-800-551-4123 information within 30 days of delivery.
Page 333: Section 9 Index
yellowblue Section 9 Index dding Equipment to the Outside of Your Vehicle ..Antifreeze ........Air Bag Anti Lock...
Page 334 yellowblue Automatic Dimming/Heated Outside BTSI ........21, 2 .
Page 335 yellowblue Circuit Breakers and Fuses ..... . . Coolant Heater, Engine ......Cleaner/Filter, Engine Air .
Page 336 yellowblue Driving Identification ....... . City ........Oil Level Check .
Page 337 yellowblue Flat Tire, Changing ......Headlamps Fluids and Lubricants ......Aiming .
Page 338 yellowblue Instrument Panel ....... Brake System Warning ......Cleaning .
Page 339 yellowblue Rear Door Child Security ..... . . Manual Single Zone Climate Control ....Trunk .
Page 340 yellowblue Owner Checks and Services ..... . . Problems on the Road ......Owner Publications, Ordering .
Page 341 yellowblue Replacement, Bulbs ......Rear Seat Outside Passenger Positions ... . Replacement, Parts .
Page 342 yellowblue Service ........Steering Bulletins, Ordering .
Page 343 yellowblue Compact Spare ....... Making Turns ....... . Inflation .
Page 344 yellowblue ehicle Wheel Control ........Alignment .

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